How to Write in College

College essay writing is more demanding than what you might be used to from high school. Here's a handy guide to finishing any college writing assignment with style.

Difficulty: Moderate

Instructions

1. Always create an outline. Structure is more important than anything else in college writing. Learn to organize your ideas.

2. Write as much as you can in your first draft. Don't worry so much about spelling or grammar. Just get your ideas down on paper. If you're wondering where to go next, glance at your outline.

3. Create a strong thesis statement, and tuck it somewhere near the beginning of the paper. Try not to make it your first line, since that's a little tired. But make sure every point you make backs that thesis up.

4. Write in a relaxed style. Try to write in a more grammatically correct version of the way you talk. If you find a voice early in your college career, you'll have a much easier time finishing papers down the road.

5. Take advantage of your school's writing tutors. Most schools with a decent English department offer free tutoring somewhere on campus. Use it! Even if you just get someone else to look at your work and give an opinion, you'll have a more polished paper than most.