A first-class essay is a piece of work that clearly, accurately, and concisely answers the essay questions and/or covers all elements of the assignment brief. The first-class essay will exceed the basic requirements and demonstrate an in-depth understanding of the topic on the part of the student along with well-formulated content that incorporates different perspectives, arguments, or viewpoints as well as demonstrating original thought, which is presented in a logical structure. The appearance of the first-class essay may be considered in more detail by looking at each section.
Introduction
The introduction should be clear, easy to read and written in a concise manner. The main function of the introduction is to introduce the reader to the topic, creating interest to ensure they want to continue reading. Concurrently, the introduction should also provide an indication of why the topic is interesting and lay the foundation for the subsequent text.
Main Body
The main body should be divided into easy to read logical paragraphs each dealing with a different aspect regarding the topic which provides substantive content, adding to the way the question will be answered. There are different types of essay structure which may be used based on the type of essay being written.
In an argumentative essay, the student may set out the initial case dealing with the supporting issues in the first few paragraphs then moving onto the contradictory argues. Alternatively, each issue associated with the essay question may be addressed and refuted in the subsequent paragraphs.
If the essay is expository there will be a higher level of factual content back by a greater depth of research. Contradictory or contrasting evidence presented alongside the initial discussion of the idea, theory, or empirical research. In all cases, the use of original examples to illustrate who the ideas may be applied can be a useful approach to demonstrate understanding as well as provide a vehicle for the inclusion of original thought.
In all case the style should flow easily, with one paragraph leading to the next and the content should directly answer the questions, without deviation. In addition, the structure should lead the reader down a logical path, moving from the general concepts to the more specific ideas. In all first-class essays, all ideas from existing sources will be fully and accurately cited, in line with the citation style required by the educational institution.
Conclusion
The conclusion should be a natural progression from the main body of the text, recapping on ideas or facts already presented. No new ideas of theories should be introduced in this section. The conclusionshould summarize the main points which refer to the question posed in the introduction and provide a clear and concise answer, including any reservations or provisos.
Bibliography
All first-class essays will have a comprehensive bibliography, listing all works cited in the essay. The bibliography, which may also be termed references, should demonstrate broad reading using quality peer-review journals as well as academic textbooks.