1.1 How to Start an English Essay

1. Pick the Literary Text

• The text can be a poem, short story, play, or book.

• Pick the text that you believe fits the essay best.

                                  or

• Pick the text that you liked the most from the course.

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2 . Pick the Theoretical Text​

• Theory links all your points together into a coherent argument.

• Pick a theory that you understand and do NOT pick a theory because it sounds smart.

• If you are struggling to pick a theory then ask you teacher if they have any suggestions on what theory or theories are best suited for the class.

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3. Look up for Secondary Sources

• Look up journal articles and academic books on your chosen literary text.

• You do not have to use these sources, but it is good to know what other people have said about the text.

• Looking up secondary sources will help you to formulate ideas for your essay.

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4. Write Down Your Initial Thoughts

• Write down some ideas that you had while reading the theory and the secondary sources.

• Do not worry about the word count or grammar. 

• This stage is to stimulate the idea process.

• This stage will also help you establish your argument.

• Add citations at this stage if you want.

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5. Start Writing

• Write the essay! 

• Remember, no first draft is perfect.

• Keep going! You can do this!