WRITING_AN_ECONOMICS_ESSAY

WRITING AN ECONOMICS ESSAY

In all answers you will be asked to:

?apply economic terms, concepts, relationships and theory ?express your ideas in a well organised and clear way

?draw and refer to diagrams where appropriate

?refer to examples where appropriate.

Before you start:

?Identify the main terms and concepts the question is asking ?Briefly plan the outline of your answer

Format:

?Introduction (2 - 4 sentences)

o Define key terms

o Link the parts of the question generally (no specific detail) ?Body

o One paragraph for each new point (2 – 5 sentences)

o Use diagrams at the relevant place (use a ruler)

o Mostly between 1 and 3 diagrams is sufficient

o Briefly refer to each diagram and explain what it shows using the labels on it

?Conclusion (2 – 3 sentences)

o Sum-up without repeating your introduction

o Keep it general (don’t repeat specifics from the Body)

o No new points

General Tips

?Don’t use “I” or “this essay”

?Be specific and detailed in the body – mention as many specific, relevant points as possible

?Report-style or traditional essay style are both acceptable ?Don’t repeat points or diagrams – organize the information logically and concisely (i.e plan it)

?If asked to “evaluate” don’t give personal opinions – provide the arguments for and against

?Don’t copy or memorise detailed tables from the notes or text ?Practise writing answers that are a realistic length