The biggest challenge for writing essays is the requirements from the instructors for the essay. These requirements differ for each major and yes, there are certain aspects to writing essays for science major that you will need to know. Here are tips for writing a successful science essay:

  • Begin with your Argument: Start your essay, saying, "I believe... " Or "My argument for - is"

  • Make an Argument: Your essay needs to make a point about something and using the essay; you must convince the reader that your point is right. This way, it will be considered as well written and organized as well.

  • Clear Writing Style: When you write your essay focusing on your argument, your style gives the impression that you have clarity of thought. Here should be an easy flow of thoughts, presented with evidence or data.

  • Evidence: This is very crucial for your scientific essay. Just citing a study is not enough, you will need to talk about key conclusions of that citation in a couple of lines. Support your claim with a valid and relevant resource or data. Even if it means that source or data is talking against your argument, you will need to cite it. Do not repeat the same citation excessively in your essay; moderation is key. Follow the formats provided for using references.

  • Keep it simple: Keep your sentences short and clear - just say, "I suggest" instead of saying "the paper suggests" or something like "It is believed that".

  • Keep it Objective: You need to stay away from colloquial language usage throughout your essay. Keep your sentences objective and whatever you do, do not use "fillers" to increase the length your essay. It is unnecessary.

  • Italize and Capitalize right: Use italics for Latin names of species; but use capitals if a place is referred in the species.

  • Do not over-criticize: To be critical is to examine facts to make a statement. In that process, some tend to just criticize about the limited number of species studied in a research, or using just one method are not considered as being critical right. Be creative on your criticism; talk about an alternative hypothesis.

  • Conclude well: Of course, you will need to give a substantial conclusion to your paper. Even if your argument is very well written, if it lacks a conclusion, then it lacks value.