Checklist: Writing an essay

Academic essays are about offering persuasive arguments using evidence that include analysis of the evidence and reasonable interpretation. An academic essay needs to have an introduction, body paragraphs, and a conclusion.

Although it is not so complicated, writing an academic piece still requires a lot attention, and we’re here to help you with a thorough checklist.

Feel free to use this checklist before or after writing your paper, but don’t forget to definitely proofread and check for common mistakes.

essay writing checklist infographic
  • I have a clear and engaging research question/argument, which I present in my introduction as a thesis statement.
  • My introduction successfully captures the reader’s attention and provides essential information regarding my topic.
  • My body paragraphs contain unique topic sentences that are tied to my thesis statement.
  • I present examples and pieces of evidence to support my topic sentences in my body paragraphs.
  • The transition between my ideas in the body paragraphs is clear and smooth.
  • I highlight every point I made throughout my essay in conclusion and show a connection between one another.
  • My conclusion does not present a new argument.
  • I used proper in-text citation style in my paper when paraphrasing or quoting someone else’s ideas.
  • My sources are credible and academic.
  • I have a reference page, and it includes the citations of every source I used (according to the style required in the assignment sheet; mostly APA or MLA).
  • After finishing my essay, I found a relevant and engaging title.
  • I made sure that I followed the formatting rules given in my assignment sheet (including length, font, page spacing, capitalization, etc.)
  • I proofread my essay for any typos or punctuation mistakes, and style of language.
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Melisa Bestel

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