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Duke University
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Unweighted GPA: 3.7
1.0
4.0
SAT: 720 math
200
800
| 800 verbal
200
800

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Low accuracy (4 of 18 factors)

College Level Essays: Tips and Tricks?

Hey, I've been struggling to write college level essays and I could really use some advice. How do you guys make your essays more advanced? Any specific strategies or resources you recommend?

a year ago

In order to elevate your college-level essays, you can follow a few key strategies:

1. Develop a strong thesis statement: A clear and concise thesis statement is crucial in setting the tone for your essay and guiding the reader through your argument. Make sure it is specific and answers the prompt directly.

2. Use a diverse vocabulary: Of course, avoid using needlessly complex words that you don't fully understand, but do aim for descriptive language and varied word choice to keep your writing engaging.

3. Utilize evidence and examples: Supporting your thesis with well-researched evidence and compelling examples will help solidify your argument. Do not rely solely on anecdotal evidence. Use studies, statistics, or historical context to enrich your essay.

4. Use a clear structure: Your essay should be organized logically with an introduction, body paragraphs addressing supporting points, and a conclusion summarizing your argument.

5. Transition smoothly between ideas: Incorporate transitional phrases or sentences to help readers understand the connections between your points. Transitions improve the overall flow and readability of your essay.

6. Revise and edit: A polished essay requires drafting, revising, and proofreading. After writing your first draft, set it aside for a day or two, then come back to it with fresh eyes. Read it aloud to catch any awkward phrasing and pay attention to grammar and punctuation.

7. Seek feedback: Asking for input from your peers or professors can lead to valuable insights and improvements for your essay. Make sure to incorporate their suggestions to refine your work further.

As for resources, you can check out websites like the Purdue Online Writing Lab (OWL), Grammarly, and Hemingway App.

Remember, practice makes perfect, so the more essays you write, the more comfortable you'll become in honing your skills and developing college-level writing. Good luck!

a year ago

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