Writing good essays is a vital study skill for all stages of education, from GCSE to degree level. This highly successful and thoroughly practical guide leads you step-by-step through the whole process, including: - How to put your ideas into shape - Making your essay coherent and giving it conviction - How to think straight and argue well - How to write a good introduction and conclusion - Improving your style - Editing and rewriting Now in its 6th edition this book has been thoroughly revised and updated to take account of feedback from teachers and students, including the requirements of online research. Use the techniques and exercises in this book to develop the originality and good writing that examiners look for - and write essays of distinction every time. Contents: Preface and Acknowledgements; Introduction and preparing for exams; 1. The purpose of your essay; 2. Choosing your topic; 3. Collecting the information you need; 4. Putting your ideas into shape; 5. Making your essay coherent; 6. Giving your work conviction; 7. How to think straight and argue well; 8. Writing introductions and conclusions; 9. Improving your style; 10. Editing and rewriting; 11. How to pass your exam essay; Appendices.