Essay Writing Checklist
Help to ensure you have all the key elements of a solid research essay by checking the following...
1. Clear argument in relation to the question
2. Have I given a direct answer to the question in my introduction and conclusion?
3. Have I linked my main points back to the question / my central argument?
4. Demonstrated comprehension of material
5. Have I put ideas in my own words?
6. Is my reasoning clear?
7. Have I engaged in critical analysis?
8. Use of concepts relevant to the course
9. Have I drawn on the relevant readings and ideas raised in class?
10. Appropriate amount of research
11. Have I cited a reasonable range of academic sources? (i.e. peer-reviewed journal articles, academic books or book chapters)
12. Adequate referencing
13. Have I provided citations for all of the definitions, evidence and examples given in my essay?
14. Is my referencing consistent throughout my essay?
15. Correct reference list / bibliography
16. Are all of the cited sources, and only the cited sources, listed in my reference list?
17. Is the reference list in alphabetical order?
18. Are all the correct details given for each source?
19. Are the sources consistently formatted?
20. Grammar and spelling
21. Have I proof-read my essay?
22. Have I tried using the grammar and spell check in Word for help?
23. Have I sought assistance with proof-reading if I’m unsure about phrasing?
24. Written expression – clear and concise
25. Is my essay easy to read?
26. Are my main points clear?
27. Appropriate essay structure – Introduction
28. Have I provided a direct answer to the question in my opening paragraph?
29. Appropriate essay structure – Body
30. Are new points separated into new paragraphs?
31. Does each paragraph relate back to the question / my central argument?
32. Appropriate essay structure – Conclusion
33. Have I reiterated my main points and my central argument clearly?
34. Does the argument in my conclusion support what is stated in my introduction?
Essay topic Should there be increased regulation of social media to protect democracy? (If so, why? If not, why not?) Please find the file attached for requirements.
