Writing a compelling English essay, such as Make a New Friend, requires more than just basic grammar knowledge. It demands clarity, structure, and creativity. Whether you’re a student or a professional looking to refine your writing, mastering these techniques will help you craft engaging and high-scoring essays.
Understand the Essay Prompt
Before writing, analyze the topic carefully. For Make a New Friend, consider questions like:
- What makes a good friendship?
- How do cultural differences affect friendships?
- Can online friendships be meaningful?
Break the prompt into smaller themes to ensure your essay stays focused.
Plan Your Structure
A well-organized essay follows a clear structure:
Introduction (1 paragraph)
- Start with a hook (a quote, question, or interesting fact).
- Briefly introduce the topic.
- State your thesis (main argument).
Body (2–3 paragraphs)
- Each paragraph should cover one main idea.
- Use topic sentences to introduce the paragraph’s focus.
- Support arguments with examples, anecdotes, or studies.
Conclusion (1 paragraph)
- Restate the thesis in different words.
- Summarize key points.
- End with a thought-provoking statement.
Expand Your Vocabulary
Using precise words enhances readability. Instead of happy, try joyful, delighted, or content. However, avoid overly complex terms that disrupt flow.
Example:
- Weak: She was happy to meet her friend.
- Strong: She felt exhilarated when reuniting with her childhood companion.
Use Transition Words
Transitions guide readers smoothly between ideas. Common ones include:
- Addition: Moreover, furthermore, in addition
- Contrast: However, on the other hand, nevertheless
- Cause/Effect: Consequently, as a result, therefore
Example:
Friendships require effort. Moreover, trust is essential for long-lasting bonds.
Avoid Common Grammar Mistakes
Even small errors can lower your essay’s quality. Watch for:
- Subject-verb agreement: She likes (not like) swimming.
- Tense consistency: Stick to past or present tense unless necessary.
- Run-on sentences: Break long sentences into shorter ones.
Practice Active Voice
Active voice makes writing clearer and more engaging.
Passive: The gift was given by me.
Active: I gave the gift.
Read High-Quality English Essays
Exposure to well-written essays improves your style. Read works by native writers, such as:
- The New York Times opinion pieces
- Academic journals
- Classic literature
Edit and Revise
Never submit a first draft. Check for:
- Clarity: Is the argument easy to follow?
- Redundancy: Remove repetitive phrases.
- Flow: Read aloud to ensure smooth transitions.
Seek Feedback
Ask teachers, peers, or online communities to review your work. Constructive criticism helps identify blind spots.
Write Regularly
Improvement comes with practice. Set a goal—write one essay per week on different topics.
Applying These Tips to Make a New Friend
For this topic, you might structure it as:
- Introduction: Friendship shapes our lives in profound ways.
- Body Paragraph 1: Shared interests often spark friendships.
- Body Paragraph 2: Trust and communication sustain relationships.
- Conclusion: True friendship transcends distance and time.
By refining these skills, your essays will become more persuasive, polished, and enjoyable to read. The key is persistence—every draft brings you closer to mastery.
