How to Improve Writing Skills in College

It comes as no surprise to say that writing skills are crucial for any student. Many students may turn to the help of a college essay services for custom writing assistance and although this is fine, it is worth bearing in mind that it is possible to improve your writing skills yourself too. We will therefore take a look at some tips you could consider in order to master and improve your writing skills in college. 

Practice writing

Be aware that writing skills take practice. The first time you sit down to a writing task bear in mind that it’s not going to be the best thing you’ve ever written. That said, as time goes on you’ll find that your writing skills will improve every time you attempt a writing task. To improve your writing skills it’s worth taking a small amount of time each day to write. This may mean you’ll have to do some writing aside from your college assignments. However, you don’t need to write a lot and you could simply keep a journal where you write a few hundred words each day.

Pose yourself a question

Before you begin writing you need to start with an outline. Begin with writing down any questions that you plan to answer in your work; this is known as the journalistic method. See it as brainstorming which will help you to begin your work and structure your writing effectively.

Rewrite drafts

Some students feel that if they rewrite their draft they are ruining their work. For this reason, they leave their draft as it is. However, it’s crucial to rewrite drafts even if it means you’ll have to edit huge amounts of your draft and spend extra time working on your draft. 

Choose the correct vocabulary 

Use an active voice in your writing as it’s easier to understand. Obviously, sometimes you’ll need to use passive voice but, where possible try and make your sentences follow the rule of subject, verb, object.

Unless you’re using scientific words then there are probably simple words that can be used. Always avoid using complicated vocabulary and keep it simple, for example, choose ‘modern’ rather than ‘contemporary’. If your language is simple it becomes easier to understand and read. Additionally, if you use complicated words you’re more likely to make a mistake with their use.

Complete your introduction

If you sometimes feel that you struggle when it comes to your writing it could be because you’re starting at the wrong point. Quite often we think we need to start at the beginning when we write, however, this is not the case. Writing usually consists of a thesis, an introduction, the main body, and the conclusion. It seems fair to start with your introduction, however, it’s best to leave it until later and begin with the main body. If you do this you’ll find that your introduction and conclusion are much easier to complete. So, the next time you begin writing anything, begin at the main part of your writing and leave your introduction until later.

Use fewer words

Professional writing needs to be concise. Use simple words and short sentences to achieve this goal. 

You also need to make sure you don’t repeat yourself and if you paraphrase to increase the word count in your writing, what you’re actually doing is repeating yourself. It’s better to open your writing up and use different examples and evidence in your work. It’s important to also avoid using the same word on numerous occasions in your writing and it’s better to find synonyms instead. 

If you have a lengthy assignment to complete and you’re struggling with ideas, then do some research and look for information that can give you a sense of direction as to what to write about.

When it comes to your paragraphs make sure you keep them short as you want to avoid having too much information in huge chunks. Similar to short sentences, short paragraphs are better. This will help your lecturer to be able to read your work quickly and ultimately your grades will be higher. 

Read academic texts

It’s clear to say that the more you read the better your understanding of writing will become.  Usually, those that are good at writing tend to read a lot and writing therefore becomes something that’s natural. The same can be said for punctuation and grammar as readers tend to be better at these aspects too. Whenever you have the time to do so it’s worth spending time reading academic texts and literature as you will definitely find that this helps to improve your writing skills. If you don’t really like reading academic texts then simply read fictional texts, what you read doesn’t really matter as long as you’re reading. 

Follow instructions clearly

Before you begin anything make sure you accurately follow the instructions that your lecture has given you. Take time when looking at the requirements and any sources that you have been provided as these may give you some ideas when it comes to writing.

Don’t forget to use quotations

Your lecturer will advise you to use quotations in your writing and you may be wondering why this is the case. The pros of using quotes are that they can be used in most forms of writing.  You can use quotes:

• As evidence or an example to support your argument;

• As a starting sentence in your introduction;

• As a changeover sentence at the end of a paragraph. 

When you use quotations in your writing you will be provided with ideas that can help you to evaluate your thoughts. 

As a matter of fact, the importance of writing skills in education and science is evident. If you improve your writing skills when you are in college you’ll find that it will help in your future life, whether you use writing every day, or for academic or business reasons. Additionally, if your writing skills are of a good standard, your grades will also reflect this.