HOW TO GET AN “A” ON AN ESSAY

Minimum expectations checklist for written assignments:

1. Written legibly in dark blue or black ink.
2. Equal margins.
3. Double spaced.
4. Use one side of the page only.
5. Paper not torn out, crumpled, dirty or otherwise showing a lack of care,
pride and effort.
6. Write your full name, date and class. Always write a title.
7. No two sentences begin with the same word.
8. No abbreviations, slang or contractions.
9. Check for capital letters and ending punctuation.
10. Write out numbers.
11. Be concise. Omit unnecessary words.
12. Be consistent with grammar.
13. Vary your vocabulary to make your writing more interesting.
14. No “dead words”:
a lot any contraction stuff
bad I stupid
“cause” I believe , think ´till
cool lots you, your
cuz any slang nice
good said get
15. No sentences beginning with:
“And” - use “Additionally”
“But” - use “However”
“So” - use “Furthermore”
“Well” - use nothing!