AI Essay-Writing Guide - High School
A few important things to keep in mind:
- Have your notebook and pen ready. Jot down your thoughts and outline each step before typing in the box.
- Use your own words. Avoid copying and pasting—your essay must reflect your own voice and ideas, making it truly unique.
Step 1: Understand the Prompt
- Read the prompt carefully: Break down the question to ensure you understand the task. Look for keywords that tell you what kind of response is expected (e.g., analyze, compare, argue).
- Define the purpose: Identify the main focus and type of essay you’re being asked to write.
Once you’re ready, type your ideas in the box below!
Step 2: Brainstorm and Research Ideas
- Generate ideas: List any thoughts, arguments, or points that come to mind about the topic.
- Conduct research: Find reliable sources and gather facts, quotes, and examples that support your ideas.
- Organize thoughts: Group related ideas and consider how they connect to form a cohesive argument.
Write everything down in your notebook! When you’re done, please type them in the box below.
Step 3: Create a Thesis Statement
- Develop a clear thesis: Write a sentence or two that presents your main argument or perspective. It should be specific and make a claim that the rest of your essay will support.
- Ensure it’s arguable: A good thesis should be something you can back up with evidence and analysis.
Write your thesis statement in your notebook! When you’re done, please type it in the box below.
Step 4: Outline Your Essay
- Plan the structure: Outline the introduction, body paragraphs, and conclusion.
- Organize main points: Decide on the main points for each body paragraph and the evidence you’ll use to support them.
- Sequence your arguments: Arrange your points logically, considering how one point leads to the next.
Write your outline in your notebook! When you’re done, please type it in the box below.
Suggestions
Step 5: Write the Introduction
- Start with a hook: Capture the reader’s interest with an engaging fact, question, or quote.
- Provide background: Briefly introduce the topic to give context.
- End with your thesis: Close the introduction with your thesis statement, clearly stating your argument or main idea.
Write the introduction in your notebook! When you’re done, please type it in the box below.
Step 6: Develop Body Paragraphs
- Focus on one main idea per paragraph: Start each paragraph with a clear topic sentence that relates to your thesis.
- Provide evidence and examples: Support each main point with facts, quotes, or examples.
- Analyze the evidence: Explain how your evidence supports the main idea and connects to the thesis.
- Use transitions: Connect paragraphs with transition words to ensure a smooth flow of ideas.
When you’re finished, please type your body paragraphs in the box below!
Step 7: Write the Conclusion
- Summarize main points: Briefly recap the main arguments without repeating them word-for-word.
- Restate the thesis: Reinforce your argument by rephrasing your thesis.
- Leave a lasting impression: End with a final thought, insight, or call to action that leaves the reader thinking.
When you’re done, type your conclusion in the box below!
Step 8: Get Feedback, Revise, and Edit
- Get feedback: Share your essay with a teacher, peer, or family member to get a fresh perspective. Ask for constructive feedback on your arguments, structure, and clarity.
- Make revisions: Use the feedback to strengthen your essay. Look for areas to clarify your ideas, refine your arguments, or add supporting details.
- Edit for grammar and style: Carefully review your essay for grammar, spelling, and punctuation errors. Ensure your sentences are clear and concise, and check for varied vocabulary and sentence structure.
- Proofread: Do a final read-through to catch any last-minute mistakes or awkward phrasing.
When you’re done revising, type your updated essay in the box below!
Step 9: Grade the Essay
- Write or type a clean, final version: Make sure your handwriting or typing is clear and easy to read.
- Check everything one last time: Look over your essay for any small mistakes or last-minute changes you want to make.
When you’re happy with it, your essay is ready to share!
