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where to write essay on laptop

Write great papers

Write great papers with microsoft word.

You may already use Microsoft Word to write papers, but you can also use for many other tasks, such as collecting research, co-writing with other students, recording notes on-the-fly, and even building a better bibliography!

Explore new ways to use Microsoft Word below.

Getting started

Let’s get started by opening Microsoft Word and choosing a template to create a new document. You can either:

Select Blank document to create a document from scratch.

Select a structured template.

Select Take a tour for Word tips.

Word new doc templates

Next, let’s look at creating and formatting copy. You can do so by clicking onto the page and beginning to type your content. The status bar at the bottom of the document shows your current page number and how many words you've typed, in case you’re trying to stay maintain a specific word count.

Word ribbon format text options

To format text and change how it looks, select the text and select an option on the Home tab: Bold, Italic, Bullets, Numbering , etc.

To add pictures, shapes, or other media, simply navigate to the Insert tab, then select any of the options to add media to your document.

Word automatically saves your content as you work, so you don’t have to stress about losing your progress if you forget to press  Save .

Here are some of the advanced tools you can try out while using Microsoft Word.

Type with your voice

Have you ever wanted to speak, not write, your ideas? Believe it or not, there’s a button for that! All you have to do is navigate to the Home tab, select the Dictate button, and start talking to “type” with your voice. You’ll know Dictate is listening when the red recording icon appears.

Tips for using Dictate

Speak clearly and conversationally.

Add punctuation by pausing or saying the name of the punctuation mark.

If you make a mistake, all you have to do is go back and re-type your text.

Dictate button in Word

Finding and citing sources

Get a head start on collecting sources and ideas for a big paper by searching key words in  Researcher in the References tab of your document.

Researcher button in Word

Researcher uses Bing to search the web and deliver high-quality research sources to the side of your page. Search for people, places, or ideas and then sort by journal articles and websites. Add a source to your page by selecting the plus sign.

As you write, Researcher saves a record of your searches. Just select My Research to see the complete list.

Keep track of all your sources by using Word's built-in bibliography maker. Simply navigate to the References tab.

First, choose the style you want your citations to be in. In this example, we’ve selected APA style.

Select Insert Citation and Add New Source .

In the next window, choose what kind of work you’re citing—an article, book, etc.—and fill in the required details. Then select  OK to cite your source.

Keep writing. At the ends of sentences that need sources, select Insert Citation to keep adding new sources, or pick one you already entered from the list.

Point to Insert Citation, and choose Add New Source

As you write, Word will keep track of all the citations you’ve entered. When you’re finished, select Bibliography and choose a format style. Your bibliography will appear at the end of your paper, just like that.

Make things look nice

Make your report or project look extra professional in the Design tab! Browse different themes, colors, fonts, and borders to create work you're proud of!

Illustrate a concept with a chart or a model by navigating to the  Insert tab and choosing  SmartArt . In this example, we chose Cycle and filled in text from the writing process to make a simple graphic. Choose other graphic types to represent hierarchies, flow charts, and more.

Example of a chart you can make

To insert a 3D model, select  Insert > 3D Models to choose from a library of illustrated dioramas from different course subjects and 3D shapes.

Invite someone to write with you

If you’re working on a group project, you can work on a document at the same time without emailing the file back and forth. Select Share at the top of your page and create a link you can send to other students.

Now, everybody can open the same file and work together.

Keep learning

Check out more Microsoft Word training and support

Microsoft paper and report templates

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The Beginner's Guide to Writing an Essay | Steps & Examples

An academic essay is a focused piece of writing that develops an idea or argument using evidence, analysis, and interpretation.

There are many types of essays you might write as a student. The content and length of an essay depends on your level, subject of study, and course requirements. However, most essays at university level are argumentative — they aim to persuade the reader of a particular position or perspective on a topic.

The essay writing process consists of three main stages:

  • Preparation: Decide on your topic, do your research, and create an essay outline.
  • Writing : Set out your argument in the introduction, develop it with evidence in the main body, and wrap it up with a conclusion.
  • Revision:  Check your essay on the content, organization, grammar, spelling, and formatting of your essay.

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Table of contents

Essay writing process, preparation for writing an essay, writing the introduction, writing the main body, writing the conclusion, essay checklist, lecture slides, frequently asked questions about writing an essay.

The writing process of preparation, writing, and revisions applies to every essay or paper, but the time and effort spent on each stage depends on the type of essay .

For example, if you’ve been assigned a five-paragraph expository essay for a high school class, you’ll probably spend the most time on the writing stage; for a college-level argumentative essay , on the other hand, you’ll need to spend more time researching your topic and developing an original argument before you start writing.

1. Preparation 2. Writing 3. Revision
, organized into Write the or use a for language errors

Prevent plagiarism. Run a free check.

Before you start writing, you should make sure you have a clear idea of what you want to say and how you’re going to say it. There are a few key steps you can follow to make sure you’re prepared:

  • Understand your assignment: What is the goal of this essay? What is the length and deadline of the assignment? Is there anything you need to clarify with your teacher or professor?
  • Define a topic: If you’re allowed to choose your own topic , try to pick something that you already know a bit about and that will hold your interest.
  • Do your research: Read  primary and secondary sources and take notes to help you work out your position and angle on the topic. You’ll use these as evidence for your points.
  • Come up with a thesis:  The thesis is the central point or argument that you want to make. A clear thesis is essential for a focused essay—you should keep referring back to it as you write.
  • Create an outline: Map out the rough structure of your essay in an outline . This makes it easier to start writing and keeps you on track as you go.

Once you’ve got a clear idea of what you want to discuss, in what order, and what evidence you’ll use, you’re ready to start writing.

The introduction sets the tone for your essay. It should grab the reader’s interest and inform them of what to expect. The introduction generally comprises 10–20% of the text.

1. Hook your reader

The first sentence of the introduction should pique your reader’s interest and curiosity. This sentence is sometimes called the hook. It might be an intriguing question, a surprising fact, or a bold statement emphasizing the relevance of the topic.

Let’s say we’re writing an essay about the development of Braille (the raised-dot reading and writing system used by visually impaired people). Our hook can make a strong statement about the topic:

The invention of Braille was a major turning point in the history of disability.

2. Provide background on your topic

Next, it’s important to give context that will help your reader understand your argument. This might involve providing background information, giving an overview of important academic work or debates on the topic, and explaining difficult terms. Don’t provide too much detail in the introduction—you can elaborate in the body of your essay.

3. Present the thesis statement

Next, you should formulate your thesis statement— the central argument you’re going to make. The thesis statement provides focus and signals your position on the topic. It is usually one or two sentences long. The thesis statement for our essay on Braille could look like this:

As the first writing system designed for blind people’s needs, Braille was a groundbreaking new accessibility tool. It not only provided practical benefits, but also helped change the cultural status of blindness.

4. Map the structure

In longer essays, you can end the introduction by briefly describing what will be covered in each part of the essay. This guides the reader through your structure and gives a preview of how your argument will develop.

The invention of Braille marked a major turning point in the history of disability. The writing system of raised dots used by blind and visually impaired people was developed by Louis Braille in nineteenth-century France. In a society that did not value disabled people in general, blindness was particularly stigmatized, and lack of access to reading and writing was a significant barrier to social participation. The idea of tactile reading was not entirely new, but existing methods based on sighted systems were difficult to learn and use. As the first writing system designed for blind people’s needs, Braille was a groundbreaking new accessibility tool. It not only provided practical benefits, but also helped change the cultural status of blindness. This essay begins by discussing the situation of blind people in nineteenth-century Europe. It then describes the invention of Braille and the gradual process of its acceptance within blind education. Subsequently, it explores the wide-ranging effects of this invention on blind people’s social and cultural lives.

Write your essay introduction

The body of your essay is where you make arguments supporting your thesis, provide evidence, and develop your ideas. Its purpose is to present, interpret, and analyze the information and sources you have gathered to support your argument.

Length of the body text

The length of the body depends on the type of essay. On average, the body comprises 60–80% of your essay. For a high school essay, this could be just three paragraphs, but for a graduate school essay of 6,000 words, the body could take up 8–10 pages.

Paragraph structure

To give your essay a clear structure , it is important to organize it into paragraphs . Each paragraph should be centered around one main point or idea.

That idea is introduced in a  topic sentence . The topic sentence should generally lead on from the previous paragraph and introduce the point to be made in this paragraph. Transition words can be used to create clear connections between sentences.

After the topic sentence, present evidence such as data, examples, or quotes from relevant sources. Be sure to interpret and explain the evidence, and show how it helps develop your overall argument.

Lack of access to reading and writing put blind people at a serious disadvantage in nineteenth-century society. Text was one of the primary methods through which people engaged with culture, communicated with others, and accessed information; without a well-developed reading system that did not rely on sight, blind people were excluded from social participation (Weygand, 2009). While disabled people in general suffered from discrimination, blindness was widely viewed as the worst disability, and it was commonly believed that blind people were incapable of pursuing a profession or improving themselves through culture (Weygand, 2009). This demonstrates the importance of reading and writing to social status at the time: without access to text, it was considered impossible to fully participate in society. Blind people were excluded from the sighted world, but also entirely dependent on sighted people for information and education.

See the full essay example

The conclusion is the final paragraph of an essay. It should generally take up no more than 10–15% of the text . A strong essay conclusion :

  • Returns to your thesis
  • Ties together your main points
  • Shows why your argument matters

A great conclusion should finish with a memorable or impactful sentence that leaves the reader with a strong final impression.

What not to include in a conclusion

To make your essay’s conclusion as strong as possible, there are a few things you should avoid. The most common mistakes are:

  • Including new arguments or evidence
  • Undermining your arguments (e.g. “This is just one approach of many”)
  • Using concluding phrases like “To sum up…” or “In conclusion…”

Braille paved the way for dramatic cultural changes in the way blind people were treated and the opportunities available to them. Louis Braille’s innovation was to reimagine existing reading systems from a blind perspective, and the success of this invention required sighted teachers to adapt to their students’ reality instead of the other way around. In this sense, Braille helped drive broader social changes in the status of blindness. New accessibility tools provide practical advantages to those who need them, but they can also change the perspectives and attitudes of those who do not.

Write your essay conclusion

Checklist: Essay

My essay follows the requirements of the assignment (topic and length ).

My introduction sparks the reader’s interest and provides any necessary background information on the topic.

My introduction contains a thesis statement that states the focus and position of the essay.

I use paragraphs to structure the essay.

I use topic sentences to introduce each paragraph.

Each paragraph has a single focus and a clear connection to the thesis statement.

I make clear transitions between paragraphs and ideas.

My conclusion doesn’t just repeat my points, but draws connections between arguments.

I don’t introduce new arguments or evidence in the conclusion.

I have given an in-text citation for every quote or piece of information I got from another source.

I have included a reference page at the end of my essay, listing full details of all my sources.

My citations and references are correctly formatted according to the required citation style .

My essay has an interesting and informative title.

I have followed all formatting guidelines (e.g. font, page numbers, line spacing).

Your essay meets all the most important requirements. Our editors can give it a final check to help you submit with confidence.

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An essay is a focused piece of writing that explains, argues, describes, or narrates.

In high school, you may have to write many different types of essays to develop your writing skills.

Academic essays at college level are usually argumentative : you develop a clear thesis about your topic and make a case for your position using evidence, analysis and interpretation.

The structure of an essay is divided into an introduction that presents your topic and thesis statement , a body containing your in-depth analysis and arguments, and a conclusion wrapping up your ideas.

The structure of the body is flexible, but you should always spend some time thinking about how you can organize your essay to best serve your ideas.

Your essay introduction should include three main things, in this order:

  • An opening hook to catch the reader’s attention.
  • Relevant background information that the reader needs to know.
  • A thesis statement that presents your main point or argument.

The length of each part depends on the length and complexity of your essay .

A thesis statement is a sentence that sums up the central point of your paper or essay . Everything else you write should relate to this key idea.

The thesis statement is essential in any academic essay or research paper for two main reasons:

  • It gives your writing direction and focus.
  • It gives the reader a concise summary of your main point.

Without a clear thesis statement, an essay can end up rambling and unfocused, leaving your reader unsure of exactly what you want to say.

A topic sentence is a sentence that expresses the main point of a paragraph . Everything else in the paragraph should relate to the topic sentence.

At college level, you must properly cite your sources in all essays , research papers , and other academic texts (except exams and in-class exercises).

Add a citation whenever you quote , paraphrase , or summarize information or ideas from a source. You should also give full source details in a bibliography or reference list at the end of your text.

The exact format of your citations depends on which citation style you are instructed to use. The most common styles are APA , MLA , and Chicago .

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How to Format an Essay

Last Updated: April 11, 2024 Fact Checked

This article was co-authored by Carrie Adkins, PhD and by wikiHow staff writer, Aly Rusciano . Carrie Adkins is the cofounder of NursingClio, an open access, peer-reviewed, collaborative blog that connects historical scholarship to current issues in gender and medicine. She completed her PhD in American History at the University of Oregon in 2013. While completing her PhD, she earned numerous competitive research grants, teaching fellowships, and writing awards. There are 11 references cited in this article, which can be found at the bottom of the page. This article has been fact-checked, ensuring the accuracy of any cited facts and confirming the authority of its sources. This article has been viewed 90,240 times.

You’re opening your laptop to write an essay, knowing exactly what you want to write, but then it hits you—you don’t know how to format it! Using the correct format when writing an essay can help your paper look polished and professional while earning you full credit. There are 3 common essay formats—MLA, APA, and Chicago Style—and we’ll teach you the basics of properly formatting each in this article. So, before you shut your laptop in frustration, take a deep breath and keep reading because soon you’ll be formatting like a pro.

Setting Up Your Document

Step 1 Read over the assignment’s guidelines before you begin.

  • If you can’t find information on the style guide you should be following, talk to your instructor after class to discuss the assignment or send them a quick email with your questions.
  • If your instructor lets you pick the format of your essay, opt for the style that matches your course or degree best: MLA is best for English and humanities; APA is typically for education, psychology, and sciences; Chicago Style is common for business, history, and fine arts.

Step 2 Set your margins to 1 inch (2.5 cm) for all style guides.

  • Most word processors default to 1 inch (2.5 cm) margins.

Step 3 Use Times New Roman font.

  • Do not change the font size, style, or color throughout your essay.

Step 4 Change your font size to 12pt.

  • Change the spacing on Google Docs by clicking on Format , and then selecting “Line spacing.”
  • Click on Layout in Microsoft Word, and then click the arrow at the bottom left of the “paragraph” section.

Step 6 Put the page number and your last name in the top right header for all styles.

  • Using the page number function will create consecutive numbering.
  • When using Chicago Style, don’t include a page number on your title page. The first page after the title page should be numbered starting at 2. [4] X Research source
  • In APA format, a running heading may be required in the left-hand header. This is a maximum of 50 characters that’s the full or abbreviated version of your essay’s title. [5] X Research source

Step 7 Use a title page with APA or Chicago Style format.

  • For APA formatting, place the title in bold at the center of the page 3 to 4 lines down from the top. Insert one double-spaced line under the title and type your name. Under your name, in separate centered lines, type out the name of your school, course, instructor, and assignment due date. [6] X Research source
  • For Chicago Style, set your cursor ⅓ of the way down the page, then type your title. In the very center of your page, put your name. Move your cursor ⅔ down the page, then write your course number, followed by your instructor’s name and paper due date on separate, double-spaced lines. [7] X Trustworthy Source Purdue Online Writing Lab Trusted resource for writing and citation guidelines Go to source

Step 8 Create a left-handed heading for MLA Style essays.

  • Double-space the heading like the rest of your paper.

Writing the Essay Body

Step 1 Center the title of your paper in all style formats.

  • Use standard capitalization rules for your title.
  • Do not underline, italicize, or put quotation marks around your title, unless you include other titles of referred texts.

Step 2 Indent the first line of each paragraph by 0.5 inches (1.3 cm) for all styles.

  • A good hook might include a quote, statistic, or rhetorical question.
  • For example, you might write, “Every day in the United States, accidents caused by distracted drivers kill 9 people and injure more than 1,000 others.”

Step 4 Include a thesis statement at the end of your introduction.

  • "Action must be taken to reduce accidents caused by distracted driving, including enacting laws against texting while driving, educating the public about the risks, and giving strong punishments to offenders."
  • "Although passing and enforcing new laws can be challenging, the best way to reduce accidents caused by distracted driving is to enact a law against texting, educate the public about the new law, and levy strong penalties."

Step 5 Present each of your points in 1 or more paragraphs.

  • Use transitions between paragraphs so your paper flows well. For example, say, “In addition to,” “Similarly,” or “On the other hand.” [12] X Research source

Step 6 Complete your essay with a conclusion.

  • A statement of impact might be, "Every day that distracted driving goes unaddressed, another 9 families must plan a funeral."
  • A call to action might read, “Fewer distracted driving accidents are possible, but only if every driver keeps their focus on the road.”

Using References

Step 1 Create parenthetical citations...

  • In MLA format, citations should include the author’s last name and the page number where you found the information. If the author's name appears in the sentence, use just the page number. [14] X Trustworthy Source Purdue Online Writing Lab Trusted resource for writing and citation guidelines Go to source
  • For APA format, include the author’s last name and the publication year. If the author’s name appears in the sentence, use just the year. [15] X Trustworthy Source Purdue Online Writing Lab Trusted resource for writing and citation guidelines Go to source
  • If you don’t use parenthetical or internal citations, your instructor may accuse you of plagiarizing.

Step 2 Use footnotes for citations in Chicago Style.

  • At the bottom of the page, include the source’s information from your bibliography page next to the footnote number. [16] X Trustworthy Source Purdue Online Writing Lab Trusted resource for writing and citation guidelines Go to source
  • Each footnote should be numbered consecutively.

Step 3 Center the title of your reference page.

  • If you’re using MLA format, this page will be titled “Works Cited.”
  • In APA and Chicago Style, title the page “References.”

Step 4 List your sources on the references page by author’s last name in alphabetical order.

  • If you have more than one work from the same author, list alphabetically following the title name for MLA and by earliest to latest publication year for APA and Chicago Style.
  • Double-space the references page like the rest of your paper.
  • Use a hanging indent of 0.5 inches (1.3 cm) if your citations are longer than one line. Press Tab to indent any lines after the first. [17] X Research source
  • Citations should include (when applicable) the author(s)’s name(s), title of the work, publication date and/or year, and page numbers.
  • Sites like Grammarly , EasyBib , and MyBib can help generate citations if you get stuck.

Formatting Resources

where to write essay on laptop

Expert Q&A

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Write an Essay

  • ↑ https://www.une.edu.au/__data/assets/pdf_file/0010/392149/WE_Formatting-your-essay.pdf
  • ↑ https://content.nroc.org/DevelopmentalEnglish/unit10/Foundations/formatting-a-college-essay-mla-style.html
  • ↑ https://camosun.libguides.com/Chicago-17thEd/titlePage
  • ↑ https://apastyle.apa.org/style-grammar-guidelines/paper-format/page-header
  • ↑ https://apastyle.apa.org/style-grammar-guidelines/paper-format/title-page
  • ↑ https://owl.purdue.edu/owl/research_and_citation/chicago_manual_17th_edition/cmos_formatting_and_style_guide/general_format.html
  • ↑ https://www.uvu.edu/writingcenter/docs/basicessayformat.pdf
  • ↑ https://www.deanza.edu/faculty/cruzmayra/basicessayformat.pdf
  • ↑ https://owl.purdue.edu/owl/research_and_citation/mla_style/mla_formatting_and_style_guide/mla_in_text_citations_the_basics.html
  • ↑ https://owl.purdue.edu/owl/research_and_citation/apa_style/apa_formatting_and_style_guide/in_text_citations_the_basics.html
  • ↑ https://library.menloschool.org/chicago

About This Article

Carrie Adkins, PhD

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The 5 Best Windows Software for Academic and Student Writing

This article was contributed by Eun Rockwell who is a professional writer for Superiorpaper writing services.

where to write essay on laptop

There are plenty of useful and free Windows apps if you want to write. The most obvious choices would be Google Docs and Microsoft Word. Both are tried and tested and packed with tons of features, most of which you will never even need.

However, they might not be the best choice if you are a college student that needs to write a lot of essays and academic assignments.

In that case, you need not just a powerful word processor, but also an app that is will help you with stuff like spelling, style, and grammar, and which is also free of any distractions. And it would be even better if had the capability to take and organize your notes and research data.

That is why I have decided to put together a list of the five best Windows apps for academic and student writing. Keep on reading to find out more. Or ask college essay writing service for help.

1. FocusWriter

When it comes to eliminating unnecessary distractions, it's pretty hard to beat FocusWriter. The app doesn't come with a ton of editing functionalities, because its main purpose is to make your writing flow as smooth as possible.

Even the toolbar is hidden from sight and only pops up when you hover your mouse cursor over it. And when it does, you won't find much else other than basic text formatting.

I rarely want to rush my essay writing process, but making it more efficient is always a plus. You can also make the interface more pleasant by adding themes to the app and changing its background image. Finally, the app is also available as a portable download, so you can put it on a USB drive and plug it in and write on any computer. 

2. Grammarly

In addition to providing factual data, convincing, arguments, and fresh ideas, your essay also needs to be spotless in terms of grammar and style. For that, there is no better tool than Grammarly. You can use it online and paste your text in order to check it, or you can install it as an add-on for your browser. It works really well with Google Docs, too.

In terms of accuracy, it outclasses any other app, and that's why just about every essay writing service out there uses it, as well, in order to fix spelling, punctuation, and stylistic errors. Not only does it catch most errors, but also provides you with one or more suggestions on how to fix them.

where to write essay on laptop

3. Scrivener

If you are working on long and complex documents, such as screenplays, novels, and academic writing assignments and essays, Scrivener is the ideal app. It is especially useful if you have a lot of research data that you need to keep track of while writing.

How so? Well, you can open a second pane next to the one you are writing in, and then organize and browse your materials, which can even include video, audio, and PDFs.

For those who want to try Superiorpapers for writing an essay , you will be pleased to know that they also use this tool when writing essays and other academic papers. You can also restore your document to a previous version, in case you have made any mistakes.

Citavi is a very capable text editor, but what sets it apart from all the others is its ability to handle all of your sources, references, and quotations, as well as to structure and outline your essays.

For instance, you can save paragraphs and passages which you intend to rely on when writing, while you work on the structure of your paper, and then simply insert them where appropriate afterward. Every time you do so, each quotation will be automatically added to your bibliography.

Another great thing about this app is that it enables you to collaborate with your colleagues on the documents. This comes in really handy when there is a lot of work to be done, from analyzing texts, saving ideas, creating first drafts, and keeping your references in check.

5. QuillBot

When it comes to versatility, you would be hard-pressed to find a better writing app than QuillBot . What really makes it different than any other academic writing app is its use of AI.

Whenever your write something using this app, its AI-powered thesaurus will offer you the option to rewrite that text in a number of different styles. In other words, you can easily rephrase your writing to fit your essay or thesis, for example.

You can also integrate it into your browser, Google Docs, or Microsoft Word, so you don't have to change your writing habits.

To make your essay writing efforts easier and to improve the quality of your writing, try one or more of the apps from the list. I hope you will find them useful. Good luck!

About the author

Eun Rockwell  is a professional writer for Superiorpaper writing services. Although she has written on a wide array of topics she is most comfortable writing about Education topics. When not writing Eun enjoys traveling, reading, and running.

Last Updated on June 9, 2022 5:11 pm CEST

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Best Essay Writing Software: 16 Apps That Can Help You Write Perfect Essays

Nowadays, we have apps for almost anything. Writing apps though, are really unique and serve several practical purposes, such as essay writing for example.

Writing an essay isn’t as simple as typing a bunch of words and arranging them as paragraphs. Writing a perfect essay entails planning, maintaining structure, writing clear and impactful sentences, and using good grammar.

That’s why we have writing apps. So in this post, I’m going to cover all the best essay writing software tools that are available now.

Okay, let’s get into it!

Our Top 3 Essay Writing Software at a Glance

Prowritingaid, the 16 best essay writing apps.

Best Book Writing Software.

Scrivener is a book-writing software program developed—13 years ago—by an aspiring writer Keith Blount.

Scrivener is what you get when you combine a typewriter, ring binder, and a scrapbook and make a book writing software tool.

It has so many useful features that take your book or any other writing project from the outline to a finished draft. We’re talking of features like corkboards, pre-set formatting, templates, file importing, metatags, automated document listing, and a bunch of other important capabilities.

Scrivener can be used by novelists, scriptwriters, academics, lawyers, translators, journalists, and students.

Pricing: Scrivener for macOS costs $49, iOS is $19.99 , and Scrivener for Windows costs $45.

Best Grammar Checker.

As far as grammar checkers go, there’s no app better than this.

It’s perfect for checking your text for typos, punctuation, and spelling mistakes. 

But it goes further than that; it has several editing features that tackle issues such as passive voice, lengthy or complex sentences, offers broader vocabulary options, et cetera. It also has a plagiarism checker and furnishes you with writing stats and readability scores.

Grammarly has a free version but reserves the best features for its premium plans.

Pricing: Free and Paid. Grammarly Premium starts at $11.66, and Grammarly Business starts at $12.50.

Excellent Tool for Self-editing

ProWritingAid is one of Grammarly’s fiercest competitors and pretty much gives you what Grammarly gives you.

Just itty-bitty shallower, BUT way more affordable.

If you want a proofreading and grammar checker writing app that has the potential of helping you improve the overall quality of your writing, this is it!

ProWritingAid refines your writing by checking important elements of your writing such as ambiguous sentences, grammar, transitions, abstract words, overused words, etc.

Over time, you start to notice improvements in your writing, especially the way it flows.

Pricing: Free and Paid.

  • Monthly – $20
  • Yearly – $79
  • Lifetime – $399 

Best note-taking tool for Students

Evernote is a simple but excellent writing app that uses the idea of virtual notes. The virtual notes can be used in several ways: making book shopping lists, writing down essay ideas, and making notes on researched information.

The notes are backed up on Evernote’s servers, and you get about 60MB of storage space per account.

Pricing :  Free and Paid. The Premium plan costs $7.99 / month, and the Business costs $14.99/person/month.

Focus Writer

Free Alternative to MS Word.

I haven’t used this free word-processing app yet, but I’d seriously consider replacing my beloved MS Word with it.

It’s a very good alternative to MS Word; in fact, not only is it free and sufficient, it is available on almost all major platforms— Windows, Mac, and Android.

If you’re a student, I’d recommend this software, and you won’t have problems using the documents from this app because they’re saved in Rich Text Format so that most word processors can read them.

Pricing: Free.

Excellent for the Creative Stage of Writing

Before you write a good essay, you need to build the idea behind the essay first.

You need to add fresh to the bones before bringing the beast (of an essay) to life.

This tool helps you expand your original ideas into sub-ideas and construct full-fledged essays by using expressive, powerful flowcharts, process maps, and other diagrams.

Pricing: Free and Paid. The Awesome Plan costs $5/month, and the Organisation Plan is at $8/member/month.

Top-Notch Open-Source Tool

Manuskript is a tool perfect for organizing and planning stages of writing. It’s an open-source tool—for writers including novelists, journos, and academicians—that uses the snowflake method of writing to help you build your idea into a finished book; by helping you create the story step by step.

It has features for helping you keep track of notes on characters, plot, event,  and place in your story. Manuskript’s features include:

  • The Outliner, which lets you organize your ideas and little pieces of your story hierarchically; 
  • The Distraction-free mode gets rid of all distractions; 
  • Personal goal-setting features;
  • The Novel assistant utilizes the snowflake method to help you develop your basic ideas into a coherent plotline or a full-fledged story.

Pricing: Free

LivingWriter

Fast Developing Tool

This is a different writing app altogether. It has a lot of features that are excellent for both fiction nonfiction writers. It has features that help with story elements, general notes, goals and targets, doc sharing, and stats.

Plus, you can also switch LivingWriter in and out of Dark Mode and focus mode.

One thing I like about LivingWriter is that it started with a single platform (web) but is now expanding rapidly.

It has iOS and Android applications, Full integration with Grammarly, Canva integration, and its desktop apps are 90% complete (according to the Living Writer Roadmap )

Yearly Plan – $96 billed once a year

Monthly Plan – $9.99 per month

Best Writing Tool for Apple Products

I don’t know about now, but Ulysses was big back then (like a dozen years ago or so).

The app is rich with features similar to the other word processing software. It comes with a Markup-Based Text Editor, a library for organizing notes and documents, features for setting writing goals, publishing capabilities, and many others.

Ulysses is perfect for both small essays and large academic ones.

Pricing : Ulysses has different pricing options for different regions but using the US plan, it costs $5.99 per month and $49.99 per year.

Hemingway Editor

An App Most Impactful Writing

The Hemingway Editor AKA Hemingway App is a simple tool for writers who want to write content that is easier to read but bold.

Hemingway does this by looking at elements of your writing such as adverbs, passive voice, phrases and words with simpler alternatives, hard-to-read sentences, very-hard-to-read sentences, and other “lexical atrocities.”

The web-based version is free, but the downloadable version (for Mac and Windows) is a paid tool.

Pricing: $19.99

Excellent Mind Mapping Tool

They used to call this app IMindMap. Ayoa is an essential tool in the planning stages of your essay writing.

You can create mind maps for your essays which help give direction when you start fleshing out your essay.

This mapping tool helps increase productivity because everything you need to write is already outlined. The fact every step is already planned and you know exactly what to write can also increase your daily word count.

Pricing : The Ayoa PRO plan costs $10/month and is billed annually. The Ultimate Plan costs $13/month and is also billed annually.

Best App for Multi-Lingual Essays

This is another incredible alternative to Grammarly.

For non-native English speakers, this is a pot of gold right here. It can check your text for grammar errors and translate Spanish, French, German. And many other languages.

As a grammar checker, the tool mainly looks at aspects such as verbs, adverbs, confused words, commonly misspelled words, etc.

Here’s a funny story about Ginger (Just happened today.) As I was using the web-based editor, I copied some texts on Ginger’s website and pasted them into the editor and the tool found one misspelled word. Their content writers must not have used Ginger.

I felt like Ginger’s content writers were like Drug dealers, you know, they followed rule number one of drug dealing. “ never get high on your own product.”   

  • Monthly Plan – $9.99
  • Yearly Plan – $74.88
  • Two-Year Plan: $119.76

Write Or Die

Best for Productivity Purposes.

This app has a name that sums up life for some of us.

Write or Die!

Write Or Die gives rewards, stimuli, and punishments if users set goals. This is what you need if you are a sloth like myself.

It gives you that needed push because the punishments—which include erasing current texts—can really scare the hell out of you and make you put an extra gear.

Pricing : Free and paid. $10 for macOS and Windows, and $1 for iOS.

Simplest Writing App

IA Writer is a distraction-free writing app that is more than perfect for writing short essays.

It has a very basic interface and uses plain text. As I said, there are no distractions because the IA writer also has a full-screen mode that fades out everything else but the line you are currently typing.

This minimalist writing app is available on Windows, Android, iOS, iPadOS, and macOS.

Pricing : Paid (offers free trials).

macOS- $29.99. has a 14-day trial

iOS &iPadOS – $29.99. No Free Trial.

Android – $4.99 /year or $29.99 once. Has a 30-day trial.

Windows – $29.99. Has a 14-day trial.

Hubspot Topic Generator

Best for Generating Topic Ideas.

This is a whole different menu right here.

It’s very different from the tools that I’ve listed in this post. This is why… you’re not going to use it to write. Instead, you use it to automatically generate writing ideas.

It’s a very simple tool; you input three words, and it provides you with nouns to generate a topic idea that you can use on your next writing project.

If you’re going to use this tool, it’s going to be during the very first stages of your writing project.

Manuscripts

Best App for Academic Assignments

Manuscript (not to be confused with Manuskript from above) is an app for students and academics. This is a convenient tool that works with popular word processing apps, including Microsoft Word.

The reason why it’s perfect for academic writing is it excels at the referencing aspect of writing—citations, abbreviations, etc.

So, for class writing assignments and larger tasks like dissertations, this is the tool I’d recommend.

Pricing : Free

Simplenote is a note-taking tool that helps you keep all your notes in one place but accessible everywhere.

You can back up your notes, add tags, share the notes with collaborators, and publish your notes in Markdown format.

Supported Systems: Android, iOS, Windows, macOS, Linux.

Guide to the Best Essay Writing Apps in 2021

Things to consider when choosing essay writing software.

A good essay writing software has to do things that make your essay look delectable and sound convincing.

Here are some of the things that an essay writing software need to be able to help you with:

Organization

I already talked about organization at the beginning, so you already know how important it is. The essay writing app has to help you arrange your essay and ensure that it flows nicely. It needs to clear the chaos that would have existed had you not used that specific tool.

Grammatical correctness

This is crucial in any writing project. The essay writing software has to help you correct your grammatical and spelling errors.

Proofreading

The proofreading capabilities of a good essay writing app go beyond checking for grammar and spelling mistakes. It also has to excel at checking other aspects like overuse of adverbs, passive voice, run-on sentences, weak writing , and readability.

Writing software doesn’t have to cost an arm. Most of these apps have similar features and pretty much do the same things. A higher price doesn’t necessarily mean the app is good but in some circumstances, apps are pricey for a good reason.

What Features Should an Essay Writing App Have

So, to achieve the above requirements, what features does a writing software need to have?

Below are the most important features that a good essay writing software program MUST have.

Grammar and Spelling checker

To achieve the overall grammatical correctness of your essay, a writing app needs to have a grammar checking feature. If it doesn’t, being integrable with an efficient grammar checking tool is also convenient.

Sentence structure and flow reports

Again, I cannot overemphasize the importance of structure in essay writing. The structure should start from your sentences to your paragraphs and the whole essay. A good essay writing app needs to have features that check aspects of structure and flow.

Punctuation checker

We can’t have an essay littered with semicolons, commas, and hyphens looking like they’re lost. Punctuation might be one of the most underrated features but make no mistake, it’s essential for professional writing.

Plagiarism checker

A good essay has to be unique and original. Therefore, essay writing software has to make sure that the body of the essay does not contain any plagiarized content.

Writing Metrics

Stats like word count, words per minute, or the number of pages are important for tracking progress. School essays usually have a word or page count requirements, and writing software must be equipped with writing metrics so that the user is kept abreast of the distance covered.

Sentence quality checker

In the writing profession, Quality matters.  It doesn’t matter if you have reached the minimum word count but the essay is of poor quality.

Writing apps must be able to pick out sentences that need improving or deleting due to poor quality writing.

Why Should You Use Writing Software to Write Essays?

Writing software won’t write your essay for you, but the writing process is hard to manage and that’s what these tools do.

Here are the benefits of using writing software:

1. Planning and Outlining

Planning is an important element of a good essay writing process. Writing software tools come with features that help you plan before you start writing.

For example, Scrivener has a feature called corkboard, which is a good planning tool. It’s like a set of digital index cards, and each represents a section of writing.

With writing software, you can plan and outline before the actual writing starts, and you can go back to the outlines and notes while writing.

2. Productivity

Productivity is a big problem for most writers. Writers like myself just write without setting a lot of writing goals, so when we feel like writing, we need to be at our most productive levels.

For those that set daily goals, maintaining a daily word count is not easy.

For both kinds of writers, writing software can help increase productivity.

The software tools come with writing stats to help you keep track of your progress. They also have features for distraction-free writing.

Templates also help increase productivity. The templates make things easier and save you a lot of time (which would have been used setting things up).

3. Editing and Formatting

Writing software tools come with features that can flag spelling & grammar mistakes and other errors. They also offer solutions to these errors.

This is very important for your editing process—it makes the editing stage easier and faster.

This also helps in increasing productivity since editing is less laborious and speedy.

Usually when we write essays (especially academic ones), some formatting requirements come with them. Writing apps are furnished with most of the formatting rules and styles that essays (academic or otherwise) may require.

4. Organizing

Writing can be a messy process.

Most often than not, essays also require a lot of research. And again, we’re not saying that writing software will help you research.

But when you get all the bits of info needed for your essay, the apps will help you keep the researched content organized.

With these writing apps, you can have all of your research organized and easily accessible.

The thing about a disorganized writing process is that it is reflected in the flow and structure of the essay.

How to Effectively Use Essay Writing Software

Let me reiterate, essay writing apps won’t write your essays for you, neither will they be correct all the time.

To get the best out of them, you need to treat them as writing tutors or co-writers. If they suggest something useful, take it on board, and if you feel like the suggestion is a bit off point, disregard it.

What Is a Perfect Essay?

A perfect essay convincingly speaks to the reader. An essay is like an argument or a speech, and it has to have a readable flow or show direction.

Perfect essays must contain arguments, supporting ideas, and most importantly, evidence.  

To write a perfect essay, you need to:

  • Thoroughly plan the whole essay before you start writing.
  • Start writing your arguments using a clear structure.
  • Back up your points and refer to relevant sources if necessary.
  • Make sure that you infuse the information with creativity. There’s nothing exciting about a bunch of truths thrown into an essay using bland sentences.
  • Before you finish your draft, ensure that you’ve answered the question in your introduction and conclusion.

How can I write an essay on my phone?

Well, most of the apps listed here are available as mobile apps. If you feel it’d be okay to write on your phone, try out a couple of the apps on this list and see which one works better on mobile platforms.

I’d recommend using tablet computers as they have bigger screens than regular smartphones.

Final Words

There are just so many essay writing software tools nowadays that even though Scrivener and Grammarly top the list, stumbling on the best one for you is almost 1/1000 probable.

You have to try out these tools before purchasing them.

Just to say it for the one-thousandth time, essay writing apps won’t write your essays for you; YOU WILL.

Recommended Reading...

Best dictation software in 2024, scrivener vs word: which is the better book writing software, vellum vs scrivener: which is better for writing and formatting your book, write app review 2024: the best distraction-free writing app.

Keep in mind that we may receive commissions when you click our links and make purchases. However, this does not impact our reviews and comparisons. We try our best to keep things fair and balanced, in order to help you make the best choice for you.

As an Amazon Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases.

© 2024 When You Write

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Tips for Online Students , Tips for Students

How To Write An Essay: Beginner Tips And Tricks

where to write essay on laptop

Updated: June 19, 2024

Published: June 22, 2021

How To Write An Essay # Beginner Tips And Tricks

Many students dread writing essays, but essay writing is an important skill to develop in high school, university, and even into your future career. By learning how to write an essay properly, the process can become more enjoyable and you’ll find you’re better able to organize and articulate your thoughts.

When writing an essay, it’s common to follow a specific pattern, no matter what the topic is. Once you’ve used the pattern a few times and you know how to structure an essay, it will become a lot more simple to apply your knowledge to every essay. 

No matter which major you choose, you should know how to craft a good essay. Here, we’ll cover the basics of essay writing, along with some helpful tips to make the writing process go smoothly.

Ink pen on paper before writing an essay

Photo by Laura Chouette on Unsplash

Types of Essays

Think of an essay as a discussion. There are many types of discussions you can have with someone else. You can be describing a story that happened to you, you might explain to them how to do something, or you might even argue about a certain topic. 

When it comes to different types of essays, it follows a similar pattern. Like a friendly discussion, each type of essay will come with its own set of expectations or goals. 

For example, when arguing with a friend, your goal is to convince them that you’re right. The same goes for an argumentative essay. 

Here are a few of the main essay types you can expect to come across during your time in school:

Narrative Essay

This type of essay is almost like telling a story, not in the traditional sense with dialogue and characters, but as if you’re writing out an event or series of events to relay information to the reader.

Persuasive Essay

Here, your goal is to persuade the reader about your views on a specific topic.

Descriptive Essay

This is the kind of essay where you go into a lot more specific details describing a topic such as a place or an event. 

Argumentative Essay

In this essay, you’re choosing a stance on a topic, usually controversial, and your goal is to present evidence that proves your point is correct.

Expository Essay

Your purpose with this type of essay is to tell the reader how to complete a specific process, often including a step-by-step guide or something similar.

Compare and Contrast Essay

You might have done this in school with two different books or characters, but the ultimate goal is to draw similarities and differences between any two given subjects.

The Main Stages of Essay Writing

When it comes to writing an essay, many students think the only stage is getting all your ideas down on paper and submitting your work. However, that’s not quite the case. 

There are three main stages of writing an essay, each one with its own purpose. Of course, writing the essay itself is the most substantial part, but the other two stages are equally as important.

So, what are these three stages of essay writing? They are:

Preparation

Before you even write one word, it’s important to prepare the content and structure of your essay. If a topic wasn’t assigned to you, then the first thing you should do is settle on a topic. Next, you want to conduct your research on that topic and create a detailed outline based on your research. The preparation stage will make writing your essay that much easier since, with your outline and research, you should already have the skeleton of your essay.

Writing is the most time-consuming stage. In this stage, you will write out all your thoughts and ideas and craft your essay based on your outline. You’ll work on developing your ideas and fleshing them out throughout the introduction, body, and conclusion (more on these soon).

In the final stage, you’ll go over your essay and check for a few things. First, you’ll check if your essay is cohesive, if all the points make sense and are related to your topic, and that your facts are cited and backed up. You can also check for typos, grammar and punctuation mistakes, and formatting errors.  

The Five-Paragraph Essay

We mentioned earlier that essay writing follows a specific structure, and for the most part in academic or college essays , the five-paragraph essay is the generally accepted structure you’ll be expected to use. 

The five-paragraph essay is broken down into one introduction paragraph, three body paragraphs, and a closing paragraph. However, that doesn’t always mean that an essay is written strictly in five paragraphs, but rather that this structure can be used loosely and the three body paragraphs might become three sections instead.

Let’s take a closer look at each section and what it entails.

Introduction

As the name implies, the purpose of your introduction paragraph is to introduce your idea. A good introduction begins with a “hook,” something that grabs your reader’s attention and makes them excited to read more. 

Another key tenant of an introduction is a thesis statement, which usually comes towards the end of the introduction itself. Your thesis statement should be a phrase that explains your argument, position, or central idea that you plan on developing throughout the essay. 

You can also include a short outline of what to expect in your introduction, including bringing up brief points that you plan on explaining more later on in the body paragraphs.

Here is where most of your essay happens. The body paragraphs are where you develop your ideas and bring up all the points related to your main topic. 

In general, you’re meant to have three body paragraphs, or sections, and each one should bring up a different point. Think of it as bringing up evidence. Each paragraph is a different piece of evidence, and when the three pieces are taken together, it backs up your main point — your thesis statement — really well.

That being said, you still want each body paragraph to be tied together in some way so that the essay flows. The points should be distinct enough, but they should relate to each other, and definitely to your thesis statement. Each body paragraph works to advance your point, so when crafting your essay, it’s important to keep this in mind so that you avoid going off-track or writing things that are off-topic.

Many students aren’t sure how to write a conclusion for an essay and tend to see their conclusion as an afterthought, but this section is just as important as the rest of your work. 

You shouldn’t be presenting any new ideas in your conclusion, but you should summarize your main points and show how they back up your thesis statement. 

Essentially, the conclusion is similar in structure and content to the introduction, but instead of introducing your essay, it should be wrapping up the main thoughts and presenting them to the reader as a singular closed argument. 

student writing an essay on his laptop

Photo by AMIT RANJAN on Unsplash

Steps to Writing an Essay

Now that you have a better idea of an essay’s structure and all the elements that go into it, you might be wondering what the different steps are to actually write your essay. 

Don’t worry, we’ve got you covered. Instead of going in blind, follow these steps on how to write your essay from start to finish.

Understand Your Assignment

When writing an essay for an assignment, the first critical step is to make sure you’ve read through your assignment carefully and understand it thoroughly. You want to check what type of essay is required, that you understand the topic, and that you pay attention to any formatting or structural requirements. You don’t want to lose marks just because you didn’t read the assignment carefully.

Research Your Topic

Once you understand your assignment, it’s time to do some research. In this step, you should start looking at different sources to get ideas for what points you want to bring up throughout your essay. 

Search online or head to the library and get as many resources as possible. You don’t need to use them all, but it’s good to start with a lot and then narrow down your sources as you become more certain of your essay’s direction.

Start Brainstorming

After research comes the brainstorming. There are a lot of different ways to start the brainstorming process . Here are a few you might find helpful:

  • Think about what you found during your research that interested you the most
  • Jot down all your ideas, even if they’re not yet fully formed
  • Create word clouds or maps for similar terms or ideas that come up so you can group them together based on their similarities
  • Try freewriting to get all your ideas out before arranging them

Create a Thesis

This is often the most tricky part of the whole process since you want to create a thesis that’s strong and that you’re about to develop throughout the entire essay. Therefore, you want to choose a thesis statement that’s broad enough that you’ll have enough to say about it, but not so broad that you can’t be precise. 

Write Your Outline

Armed with your research, brainstorming sessions, and your thesis statement, the next step is to write an outline. 

In the outline, you’ll want to put your thesis statement at the beginning and start creating the basic skeleton of how you want your essay to look. 

A good way to tackle an essay is to use topic sentences . A topic sentence is like a mini-thesis statement that is usually the first sentence of a new paragraph. This sentence introduces the main idea that will be detailed throughout the paragraph. 

If you create an outline with the topic sentences for your body paragraphs and then a few points of what you want to discuss, you’ll already have a strong starting point when it comes time to sit down and write. This brings us to our next step… 

Write a First Draft

The first time you write your entire essay doesn’t need to be perfect, but you do need to get everything on the page so that you’re able to then write a second draft or review it afterward. 

Everyone’s writing process is different. Some students like to write their essay in the standard order of intro, body, and conclusion, while others prefer to start with the “meat” of the essay and tackle the body, and then fill in the other sections afterward. 

Make sure your essay follows your outline and that everything relates to your thesis statement and your points are backed up by the research you did. 

Revise, Edit, and Proofread

The revision process is one of the three main stages of writing an essay, yet many people skip this step thinking their work is done after the first draft is complete. 

However, proofreading, reviewing, and making edits on your essay can spell the difference between a B paper and an A.

After writing the first draft, try and set your essay aside for a few hours or even a day or two, and then come back to it with fresh eyes to review it. You might find mistakes or inconsistencies you missed or better ways to formulate your arguments.

Add the Finishing Touches

Finally, you’ll want to make sure everything that’s required is in your essay. Review your assignment again and see if all the requirements are there, such as formatting rules, citations, quotes, etc. 

Go over the order of your paragraphs and make sure everything makes sense, flows well, and uses the same writing style . 

Once everything is checked and all the last touches are added, give your essay a final read through just to ensure it’s as you want it before handing it in. 

A good way to do this is to read your essay out loud since you’ll be able to hear if there are any mistakes or inaccuracies.

Essay Writing Tips

With the steps outlined above, you should be able to craft a great essay. Still, there are some other handy tips we’d recommend just to ensure that the essay writing process goes as smoothly as possible.

  • Start your essay early. This is the first tip for a reason. It’s one of the most important things you can do to write a good essay. If you start it the night before, then you won’t have enough time to research, brainstorm, and outline — and you surely won’t have enough time to review.
  • Don’t try and write it in one sitting. It’s ok if you need to take breaks or write it over a few days. It’s better to write it in multiple sittings so that you have a fresh mind each time and you’re able to focus.
  • Always keep the essay question in mind. If you’re given an assigned question, then you should always keep it handy when writing your essay to make sure you’re always working to answer the question.
  • Use transitions between paragraphs. In order to improve the readability of your essay, try and make clear transitions between paragraphs. This means trying to relate the end of one paragraph to the beginning of the next one so the shift doesn’t seem random.
  • Integrate your research thoughtfully. Add in citations or quotes from your research materials to back up your thesis and main points. This will show that you did the research and that your thesis is backed up by it.

Wrapping Up

Writing an essay doesn’t need to be daunting if you know how to approach it. Using our essay writing steps and tips, you’ll have better knowledge on how to write an essay and you’ll be able to apply it to your next assignment. Once you do this a few times, it will become more natural to you and the essay writing process will become quicker and easier.

If you still need assistance with your essay, check with a student advisor to see if they offer help with writing. At University of the People(UoPeople), we always want our students to succeed, so our student advisors are ready to help with writing skills when necessary. 

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You already know that the computer lets you easily type in text, shift it around, and edit it. Word processing can also do much more for you if you make the most of its capacities and know its limitations. Here are some practical tips on using the computer as a writer’s tool. Use the Help key in your word-processing program to learn more about the functions mentioned here.

Though some writers benefit from the tactile experience of writing notes and drafts by hand, you may be surprised how much power you gain by doing nearly all your drafting on the computer.

  • You don’t have to create clean or fully developed text for your first draft. Try jotting down your ideas as they come. To mark places where further work is needed, just insert repeated characters (////), leave blank space, or use the highlighter from the menu bar. This will help you create a partial or full draft quickly—then you can go back and strengthen it.
  • Try doing brainstorming on screen. It’s encouraging to scroll through your results later and find worthwhile bits to develop. If you feel stuck, turn the monitor brightness to zero and type in whatever occurs to you. You’ll probably be surprised at how much sense these seemingly random jottings make.
  • Outlining is made easy too. Even a simple list of points to cover gets you started. You can use  Enter and  Tab to set up an initial structure. If you like to work from a full outline, try the built-in outliner (under  View ) to put your initial ideas into a logical arrangement. With any type of outline, you can fill in as much as you want in each session of writing, and then revise your plans as your ideas develop.
  • The computer can streamline the work of documenting your sources. With the choices in the References menu, footnotes or endnotes will take only a few keystrokes to set up. You will also create the Bibliography list as you go. Parenthetical references are easy to check and complete too, and you will have a choice of Works Cited, References, or Bibliography list.
  • Save time by using short forms in your first draft. Then use the Find and Replace function ( Ctrl-H in Word) to replace the short forms with the full wording. Type sov at first, for instance; then replace that with sovereignty-association later. (But confirm each replacement.)
  • A simple idea: don’t double-space your text until you’re ready to print it out. You need to see as many lines as possible on screen to get a sense of the flow of your work.
  • Keep all your drafts in case you want to go back to an earlier version. Use the Save As function from the File menu to rename the drafts in sequence, with numbers or dates in the filenames. Email drafts to yourself for backups.

Revising and Editing

Word processing comes into its own with the hardest work of good writing—cutting, arranging, rewriting. Get to know what your computer can and can’t do to support you.

  • Don’t be deceived by the finished look of text on the screen. Try using the View menu to see more than one page at once. That lets you check whether some of your paragraphs are too long and whether the sections of your paper are balanced. Also print out your paper at least once and read it through critically, checking overall flow and logic. (A writing-centre appointment  can help you achieve that perspective too.)
  • This may make you want to restructure your essay completely. Luckily, the computer makes that easy with its cut-and-paste functions. If you’re uncertain about where a section should go, try copying rather than moving; then you can choose. You can combine versions easily too. The View menu lets you see a number of windows at once so you can copy from one file to another.
  • It’s worthwhile—especially for group work—to use the Comment command from the Insert or Review. You can write notes to yourself or your co-writers that show up beside the text but don’t change its layout. The Track Changes function from the Review menu in Word is also worth learning. Once turned on, it automatically uses different-coloured fonts to show editing possibilities that you can accept or reject later.
  • The Review menu offers a number of functions for proofreading and editing that can be helpful if used with care. However, be sure the AutoCorrect option is turned off, or you could end up with nonsense.
  • The SpellCheck function can help mend typos as well as spelling errors. Set the language to Canadian English rather than US or UK English. Don’t accept all the suggested changes. If spellcheck flags a word as wrong when you are sure it isn’t (as happens with names and technical terms), then add that word to your built-in “dictionary” so the computer recognizes it the next time. Keep in mind, though, that the computer won’t tell you that you’ve mistyped form for from , much less that you’ve misused principle for principal .
  • Only use the Thesaurus (also part of the Review menu) if you already have a good vocabulary and want to be reminded of possibilities when you are stuck for the right word. A thesaurus supplies words in the same general category as the word you’re wondering about, but gives no guidance on meaning or sense.
  • So don’t ignore your print or online dictionary as a resource. You will have to look up the words that spell checkers don’t recognize, and also cross-check thesaurus suggestions for exact meanings and usage. Use it instead of a thesaurus when you wonder if a particular word is the right one.
  • The grammar checkers built into word processors (again under the Review menu, usually grouped with spellcheck and thesaurus) are seldom useful. About half of grammar-check flags are wrong, and the explanations are not clear. It’s best to leave the box blank for the offer to “check grammar.” For usable advice on sentence structure and grammar, see the files in the Revising section of this website.
  • The basic Find function ( Ctrl-F ) can help you do your own style-checking. For instance, if you know you tend to overuse or misuse a word or phrase, let  Find call up each instance so you can see if another wording would be better. Even looking at each use of and, but, or however can help you improve and vary your sentence structures.
  • If you hit a tough sentence to revise, go back to your drafting techniques. Give yourself lots of screen space to try out new versions. Do a hard-page return ( Ctrl-Enter ) and use the rest of the screen to play around with your ideas. It can sometimes help to make a list or other visual structure—use Enter and Tab as much as you like until you see the essential shape of your ideas. Revise, then reformat your text.

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HeyHi

4 Ways to Write on a Non-Touchscreen Laptop

Shifting to e-learning as an educator has its own perks, but comes with challenges as well. You might be used to teaching alongside a writing instrument, for example, a visualiser or your whiteboard in real life. We understand the importance of these tools to help your students learn better. Similarly, for students who are so used to using a pen and paper to do their work, the shift to digital platforms can be difficult to get used to. When you do work remotely, these tools you usually use in real life might be difficult to incorporate digitally, especially in real time, as it may not always be clear and accurate. A direct alternative would be to use your laptop if it has a touchscreen feature, and use that as a writing tool, but not all of us may have access to one – especially students. Well, look no further! Lucky for you, we have actually compiled 4 ways you can write on a non touchscreen laptop.

Here is an overview:

  • Microsoft OneNote
  • Investing in a Drawing Tablet
  • Scanning apps eg. Office lens apps
  • Heyhi’s Interactive Whiteboard

Keep reading on to find out more.

1. Microsoft OneNote

This is the digital note-taking app millions of people use worldwide, and if you haven’t jumped on the bandwagon already, this is the right time to do so! You can check out a quick tutorial on their website on how to write notes and draw using OneNote. This is really useful if you want to create personalised notes that need diagrams and drawings to be included, and you can also do so in real time through video-conferencing.

where to write essay on laptop

(Image taken from : https://www.onenote.com/signin?wdorigin=ondc ) 

Key Features 

Some other interesting features of OneNote include:

  • Audio/video recording
  • Convert handwriting to text
  • Get coordinates from math equation class
  • Password protect sensitive sections of a shareable document

The features of this application makes it pretty convenient to share your notes for the e-learning period making it easier for educators and students. Furthermore, getting access to the app is pretty simple, you can easily obtain it by downloading it on their website , or you might already have it if you have downloaded Microsoft Office 365.

Drawing With Your Mouse

It should be noted that drawing diagrams would be difficult if you don’t have a stylus, as your mouse would be the drawing tool instead, and that can be pretty inconvenient. So in that situation, you might have to spend some time getting acquainted with drawing things using your mouse.

Privacy Issues

Another issue that might be a cause of concern is the privacy settings for OneNote, as it is not fully encrypted. If that is something that is important to you, it is worth keeping it in mind. Other than that, it is a pretty helpful application you can use – making up for the limitations of owning a non-touchscreen laptop. 

2. Drawing Tablets

If you are someone who has worked in design before, you might be familiar with drawing tablets. Essentially, a drawing tablet is a computer input device that enables a user to hand-draw images, animations and graphics with a stylus similar to the way a person draws images with a pencil and paper. This is probably the closest thing you can get to literally drawing or writing on your computer conveniently and accurately – making it seem touchscreen.

where to write essay on laptop

(Image taken from https://www.wacom.com/en-us/products/pen-tablets/one-by-wacom )

Drawing Tablets for Students/Educators

Currently there are many varieties available in the market, and it would be good to thoroughly research on the features and the reviews before investing in one. For example, if you have a child who is a student, and you are willing to invest in a drawing tablet, there are varieties designed for kids and beginners compiled in this article . This would be especially useful if your kid is interested in drawing and improving their artistic skills as well! There are several companies who are selling these tablets with special discounts for educators and students to support the e-learning systems put in place during this period, for example XP-Pen and Wacom .

Pricing and Limitations

It is very convenient to use this gadget, but bear in mind the cost of the investment as not all of these tablets are affordable. There is also a learning curve involved in trying to familiarise yourself with the product. Another thing that you might want to take note of that they might not be a good tool to carry out basic operations such as pointing and clicking to make menu selections. 

It is worth considering all the pros and cons before going ahead with purchasing one.

3. Mobile Scanning Apps

This is actually a completely different approach to the previous ones; it is more of a ‘life-hack’ to convert your work into a digital form, and view it on your laptop. What you do here is to take your work or notes that you have on paper, and use an app that can scan your work through your smartphone and transfer to your laptop. 

where to write essay on laptop

 (Image from https://www.camscanner.com/ )

How it Works

These apps usually use the camera function of your smartphone to scan your documents. It not only works with notes, but also with receipts, bills, prescriptions, textbooks, and many more – making it a really handy tool to have.

Advantages and Reviews

There are many of such apps available on app stores for free, including CamScanner ( Android ), AdobeScan ( Android and iOS ) and Scanbot ( Android and iOS ). This is a really convenient way to scan your own notes accurately and upload them online – and you don’t have to worry about the quality; the app will convert it into a digital file that will appear really clear on your laptop. Furthermore, it is free so you don’t have to fork out any money in order to use the app.

Here is what some educators say about using AdobeScan :

where to write essay on laptop

(Image taken from https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.adobe.scan.android&hl=en_SG&showAllReviews=true )

Drawbacks and Limitations

As free and handy these apps are, they come with some limitations that is worth mentioning:

  • You would not be able to do this in real time while you explain to your students, so if that is your goal then this solution may not be the best one for you. 
  • Other reviews across apps have also mentioned that it takes time to convert these hardcopy documents into a file.
  • The quality tends to fluctuate across apps so you would have to test out apps to see which one is the best one for you.
  •  It is also worth mentioning that  some of the apps may not be completely safe in terms of privacy and data collection. As such it is important to do further research when considering which app to purchase. 

All in all, it is recommended to take some time to find the app that would work best for you, or you can look at other alternative methods.

4. HeyHi’s Interactive Whiteboard

Heyhi is essentially a video-conferencing app made especially for educators and students, built with an interactive whiteboard and the ability to screenshare and share documents, among other features. 

You can watch a tutorial of how our app works here:

Interactive Whiteboard  

A special feature about Heyhi that we would like to highlight here is our interactive whiteboard . 

where to write essay on laptop

(Image taken from https://heyhi.sg/ )

With our interactive whiteboard, you can sketch, draw shapes and also type in textboxes, that too in real time! 

Smartphone/Tablet as a Writing Device

To add on, another cool thing that you can do is turning your smartphone, or your tablet into a writing device! Yes, you read that right. All you need is your smartphone and our app – and whatever you write on it, it will appear on your laptop. It is easy, convenient and really simple. The best part is that you don’t need to spend any money buying other gadgets – you are already equipped with whatever that is needed.

 Don’t believe us? Watch it for yourself here! 

This is especially useful and a much better solution for younger students who may not have laptops to write on. Moreover, it is totally affordable as we are now offering our platform for free exclusively to students and educators. 

Here are some reviews by educators about Heyhi:

where to write essay on laptop

(Image taken from https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=sg.imath.meetboard&hl=en_SG )

where to write essay on laptop

(Image taken from https://www.facebook.com/pg/Heyhi-Online-classroom-with-interactive-whiteboard-110616413906823/reviews/?ref=page_internal )

You can see that our app has proven to be beneficial for educators and students, especially with the added convenience of the interactive whiteboard and the ability to turn your smartphone into your writing pad. So do check it out! With these tips, you don’t have to feel the shortcomings faced by e-learning. At Heyhi, we believe that learning never stops, regardless of wherever you are and we hope to make your life a little more easier with our app.

Leveraging Generative AI,  HeyHi  empower educators to:

  • Boost assessment efficiency with our question and assessment generator.
  • Craft personalised lesson modules in e-book and videos with ease.
  • Give 24/7 support for all students with our AI Learning Buddy.
  • Create unique learning journeys for each student, maximising their potential.
  • And many more!

Start a new chapter of revolutionised teaching with HeyHi. Let us know how we can help you best by  contacting us  today .

About HeyHi

HeyHi empowers schools and education institutions to enable personalised adaptive learning with a robust AI-powered e-assessment and learning system. We allow schools to offer holistic education, encompassing both foundational academic learning and 21st Century Competencies development. Create adaptive worksheets and lesson modules, automate grading, track performance & identify learning gaps, all with just a few clicks. Accelerate students’ learning with 24/7 adaptive feedback from our AI Learning Buddy. Flexible content options and seamless integration ensure efficiency, saving you valuable hours and costs.

Website:  heyhi.sg LinkedIn:  linkedin.com/company/heyhilearningspace/ Facebook:  facebook.com/HeyHiLearningSpace Instagram:  instagram.com/heyhilearningspace/

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The 5 best writing apps that help avoid distractions

By David Nield

Posted on Jul 12, 2024 9:02 AM EDT

4 minute read

So here’s the problem: You’ve got writing to do, but there are endless distractions every time you sit down at your laptop . Whether it’s a blog post, an important email, or the next great American novel, you’re struggling to put one word after another in any kind of consistent way.

The solution is an app that blocks out everything that’s not your writing, allowing you to concentrate on the task at hand. Considering how many of these programs exist, focus is something that a lot of writers have difficulties with, and these are some of the best options currently out there to battle writer’s block .

screenshot of Ulysses app

Ulysses (named after the novel ) has been providing writers with a minimal, clutter-free interface for more than a decade. It’s built up a loyal following, and it’s not hard to see why. While the front-end is impressively clean and simple, it also offers some advanced back-end features for keeping longer projects organized and manageable.

There’s markdown formatting support for your text, as well as control over colors and fonts if you want to tweak the default look. Everything syncs seamlessly between your devices, and you’ve got a choice of different file formats for exporting. Perhaps the only downside is it’s only available for Apple devices.

Ulysses ($5.99 per month, 7-day free trial) for macOS, iOS, and iPadOS

Calmly Writer

screenshot of Calmly Writer

The Calmly Writer desktop application brings a touch of serenity and peace to your writing. The interface is as basic as they come, with your documents separated into individual tabs, browser-style. There are some simple formatting options here for headings and lists, and you can choose the font style and color used as the app default.

Calmly Writer presents some helpful stats about your work (including the reading time), and you can set a goal for each document. Another cool little touch is the optional typewriter sound you can enable, for that retro feel. The app is available for a one-off purchase price, but there are no time restrictions on the free trial.

Calmly Writer ($14.99, unrestricted free trial) for Windows and macOS

FocusWriter

screenshot of FocusWriter

FocusWriter is a program that stick to the basics when it comes to its interface: You get a window with your text in, and that’s about it. If you need some inspiration, there are some neat alternative themes to pick from, including background images showing clouds, space, and a city shoreline (and you can even add your own custom ones).

Dig a little deeper into FocusWriter and you’ll find some helpful features hidden away, including the option to set daily goals, which can help keep you on track with your writing. You can also apply a fade to all the text except what you’re currently working on. The app’s free to use, though you can give the developer a donation if you find it useful.

FocusWriter (free) for Windows

screenshot of Hemingway app

Hemingway (named after the author ) not only gives you a clean and minimal space to write in, it also helps you to write copy that’s lean and efficient—just like the great American writer himself. You can toggle on highlights for sentences that are hard to read, as well as words that have simpler alternatives, giving you prompts to rewrite them.

Formatting can be accessed via a keyboard shortcut, and you get simple stats on your writing as well. The basic web functionality of Hemingway is free, but you can pay from $10 a month to get some AI assistance and instant grammar fixes, as well as file import and export options. There is a desktop app available too, for a one-off payment of $19.99.

Hemingway (free or $19.99 or from $10 a month) for web, Windows, and macOS

screenshot of iA Writer

iA Writer is another app that makes use of markdown for formatting, which means your screen isn’t taken up with toolbars and menus—just your text and maybe the occasional picture. You can use templates to get started quickly, and links between document sections to jump quickly around your work.

Everything is neatly laid out and straightforward to access. You can use smart folders and tags to get around your documents—it’s a really intuitive system. You do have to pay separately for each different platform you want to use iA Writer on, but there’s a 14-day free trial you can take advantage of to see if you like it before paying.

iA Writer (from $29.99, 14-day free trial) for Windows, macOS, Android, iOS, and iPadOS

Options in the app you already use

screenshot of Word's focus mode location

Bear in mind there are some tricks you can use in most word processors to make them more minimal. Microsoft Word, for instance, has a dedicated Focus mode—you can launch it from the View ribbon menu or the button on the status bar at the bottom. It puts Word in full-screen mode on your screen, while hiding all of the menus and toolbars.

You can do something similar in Google Docs as well. There’s no dedicated mode as there is in Word, but you can choose View and Full screen to hide the various menus and toolbars up at the top of the screen. For the full effect, maximize your browser window at the same time in Windows or macOS, so you can’t see anything else on screen.

Latest in Tech Hacks

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By Bill Gourgey

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Essay on Computer and its Uses for School Students and Children

500+ words essay on computer.

In this essay on computer, we are going to discuss some useful things about computers. The modern-day computer has become an important part of our daily life. Also, their usage has increased much fold during the last decade. Nowadays, they use the computer in every office whether private or government. Mankind is using computers for over many decades now. Also, they are used in many fields like agriculture, designing, machinery making, defense and many more. Above all, they have revolutionized the whole world.

essay on computer

History of Computers

It is very difficult to find the exact origin of computers. But according to some experts computer exists at the time of world war-II. Also, at that time they were used for keeping data. But, it was for only government use and not for public use. Above all, in the beginning, the computer was a very large and heavy machine.

Working of a Computer 

The computer runs on a three-step cycle namely input, process, and output. Also, the computer follows this cycle in every process it was asked to do. In simple words, the process can be explained in this way. The data which we feed into the computer is input, the work CPU do is process and the result which the computer give is output.

Components and Types of Computer

The simple computer basically consists of CPU, monitor, mouse, and keyboard . Also, there are hundreds of other computer parts that can be attached to it. These other parts include a printer, laser pen, scanner , etc.

The computer is categorized into many different types like supercomputers, mainframes, personal computers (desktop), PDAs, laptop, etc. The mobile phone is also a type of computer because it fulfills all the criteria of being a computer.

Get the huge list of more than 500 Essay Topics and Ideas

Uses of Computer in Various Fields

As the usage of computer increased it became a necessity for almost every field to use computers for their operations. Also, they have made working and sorting things easier. Below we are mentioning some of the important fields that use a computer in their daily operation.

Medical Field

They use computers to diagnose diseases, run tests and for finding the cure for deadly diseases . Also, they are able to find a cure for many diseases because of computers.

Whether it’s scientific research, space research or any social research computers help in all of them. Also, due to them, we are able to keep a check on the environment , space, and society. Space research helped us to explore the galaxies. While scientific research has helped us to locate resources and various other useful resources from the earth.

For any country, his defence is most important for the safety and security of its people. Also, computer in this field helps the country’s security agencies to detect a threat which can be harmful in the future. Above all the defense industry use them to keep surveillance on our enemy.

Threats from a Computer

Computers have become a necessity also, they have become a threat too. This is due to hackers who steal your private data and leak them on internet. Also, anyone can access this data. Apart from that, there are other threats like viruses, spams, bug and many other problems.

where to write essay on laptop

The computer is a very important machine that has become a useful part of our life. Also, the computers have twin-faces on one side it’s a boon and on the other side, it’s a bane. Its uses completely depend upon you. Apart from that, a day in the future will come when human civilization won’t be able to survive without computers as we depend on them too much. Till now it is a great discovery of mankind that has helped in saving thousands and millions of lives.

Frequently Asked Questions on Computer

Q.1  What is a computer?

A.1 A computer is an electronic device or machine that makes our work easier. Also, they help us in many ways.

Q.2 Mention various fields where computers are used?

A.2  Computers are majorly used in defense, medicine, and for research purposes.

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  • Essay on Computer

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Long and Short Computer Essay

The term computer was once used to refer to a person who did computation, unlike today. The development of early prototypes that led to the modern computer is credited to many individuals throughout history. A series of breakthroughs, beginning with transistor computers and then integrated circuit computers, resulted in the development of transistor technology and the integrated circuit chip, causing digital computers to largely replace analogue computers. 

In this essay, we will discuss the various components and types of computers and talk about their uses in various fields.

Long Computer Essay in English

A computer is an electronic tool that manipulates data or information. It can store, retrieve, and process information. We can type documents, send emails, play games, and browse the Web using a computer. It can also be used to edit spreadsheets, presentations, and even videos, or create them. 

Early computers were conceived only as devices for calculating. Simple manual devices such as the abacus have helped individuals do calculations since ancient times. Some mechanical devices were built early in the Industrial Revolution to automate long, tedious tasks, such as guiding patterns for looms. In the early 20th century, more sophisticated electrical machines performed specialized analogue calculations. 

Common Components of Computers

All those parts of a computer that are tangible physical objects are covered under the term hardware. The hardware includes circuits, computer chips, graphics cards, sound cards, memory (RAM), motherboards, displays, power supplies, cables, keyboards, printers and "mice" input devices.

 There are five main hardware components: 

Input Devices: 

These are devices that are used to enter data/information in the central processing unit. Example- keyboard, mouse, scanner, document reader, barcode reader, optical character reader, magnetic reader etc.

Output Devices: 

These are devices that provide the processed data/information into human-readable form. Example- monitor, printer, speaker, projector etc.

Control Unit: 

The control unit handles the various components of the computer; it reads and interprets (decodes) the instructions for the program, transforming them into control signals that activate other computer parts.

Arithmetic Logic Unit: 

It is capable of performing arithmetical and logical functions. The set of arithmetic operations supported by a specific ALU may be restricted to addition and subtraction or may include functions of multiplication, division, trigonometries such as sine, cosine, etc., and square roots.

Central Processing Unit: 

The ALU, control unit and registers and together called the CPU. It is sometimes called the computer's brain, and its job is to perform commands. We send instructions to the CPU whenever we press a key, click the mouse, or start an application.

Software refers to computer parts, such as programs, data, protocols, etc., that do not have a material form. In contrast to the physical hardware from which the system is built, the software is that portion of a computer system consisting of encoded information or computer instructions.

It is sometimes called "firmware" when the software is stored in hardware that can not be easily modified, such as with a BIOS ROM on an IBM PC compatible computer.

Computer hardware and software require each other, and neither of them can be realistically used on their own. There are four main components of a general-purpose computer: the arithmetic logic unit (ALU), the control unit, the memory, and the I/O (collectively called input and output) devices.

Uses of Computer

Computers are used in various fields, such as homes, businesses, government offices, research organizations, educational institutions, medicine, entertainment, etc. because of their features and powerful functions. They have taken sectors and companies to a whole new level.

Science- 

Computers are best suited for the collection, analysis, categorization, and storage of data in science, research and engineering. They also help scientists to exchange data both internally and internationally with each other.

Government-  

Computers in the government sector are used to perform various functions and improve their services. In most cases, data processing tasks, the maintenance of citizens' databases, and the promotion of a paperless environment are the primary purposes of using computers. In addition to this, computers play a key role in the country's defence system.

Health and Medicine- 

They are used to preserve information, records, live patient monitoring, X-rays, and more from patients. Computers assist in setting up laboratory tools, monitoring heart rate and blood pressure, etc. Besides, computers allow physicians to easily exchange patient data with other medical specialists.

Education- 

They help people get different educational materials (such as images, videos, e-books, etc.) in one place. Also, computers are best suited for online classes, online tutoring, online exams, and task and project creation. Also, they can be used to maintain and track student performance and other data.

Banking- 

Most countries use online banking systems so that customers can access their data directly. People can verify the balance of their account, transfer cash, and pay online bills, including credit cards. Besides, banks use computers to execute transactions and store client information, transaction records, etc.

Short Computer Essay in English

A computer's a programmable device that accepts raw data(input) and processes it as output with a group of instructions (a program) to supply the result. It renders output after performing mathematical and logical operations and can save the output for future use. The word "computer" derives from the word "computare" in Latin, which means calculating.

Types of Computer

Computers are of different types based on different criteria. Based on their size, computers are of five types:

Micro Computers- 

It is a single-user computer that has less capacity for speed and storage than the other types. For a CPU, it uses a microprocessor. Laptops, desktop computers, personal digital assistants (PDAs), tablets, and smartphones are common examples of microcomputers. Microcomputers are generally designed and built for general use, such as browsing, information search, the internet, MS Office, social media, etc.

Mini Computers- 

Minicomputers are also referred to as "Midrange Computers." They are multi-user computers designed to simultaneously support multiple users. Therefore, they are generally used by small companies and firms. 

Mainframe Computers- 

It is also a multi-user computer that large companies and government organizations use to run their business operations as large amounts of data can be stored and processed. Banks, universities, and insurance companies, for example, use mainframe computers to store data from their customers, students, and policyholders.

Super Computer- 

Among all types of computers, supercomputers are the fastest and most costly computers. They have an enormous capacity for storage and computing speeds and can therefore perform millions of instructions per second.

Workstations-  

It is a single-user computer with a comparatively more powerful microprocessor and a high-quality monitor compared to a mini-computer.

Benefits of Computers:

It increases productivity.

It helps in connecting to the internet.

It helps in organizing data and information.

It allows storing large amounts of data.

Fun Facts About Computers

The first electric computer that was invented weighed around 27 tons or even more than that and took up to 1800 square feet.

There are about 5000 new viruses that are released every month.

The original name of Windows was Interface Manager.

It is surely known that the life of humans would not have been so easy if computers were not a part of human life. This is also supported by a lot of pieces of evidence where we can even see in daily life how the computer is not just present in an organization but is also available right in the pockets of everyone. Thus, the computer has surely made it easy while also spoiling a lot of people's lives. 

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FAQs on Essay on Computer

1. What are the disadvantages of computers?

While the computer has surely made life easier, it also has a lot of disadvantages. The disadvantages of the computers can be provided as follows:

People spend too much time sitting and doing nothing but watching the content on computers.

People staring at computers for a long time also tend to strain their eyes, and as a result, they need spectacles to understand what is being written in front of them.

Attention span is decreasing with an increase in the use of computers. 

With computers being AI-powered, it is now easier for people to do all the tasks on a computer and not work on it themselves. This has made a lot of people lazy.

2. What is the process of working on a computer?

A computer is an electronic machine and it needs information to be added in as raw data to function well. It has a flow that determines the accessing of data. The following steps take place before the results are obtained:

Information is taken in by the computer in the form of raw data. This process is also called the input.

Then the information that is not needed will be stored while the information that is needed is passed onto the next step. The storing of data is called memory.

Then the information that is required is crushed or it is split and this process is called processing.

The last step is where the results are obtained. This process is called getting the output.

Essay on Computer

500+ words essay on computer.

A computer is an electronic device that performs complex calculations. It is a wonderful product of modern technology. Nowadays, computers have become a significant part of our life. Whether it is in the sector of education or health, computers are used everywhere. Our progress is entirely dependent on computers powered by the latest technology. This ‘Essay on Computer’ also covers the history of computers as well as their uses in different sectors. By going through the ‘Computer’ Essay in English, students will get an idea of writing a good Essay on Computers. After practising this essay, they will be able to write essays on other topics related to computers, such as the ‘Uses of Computer’ Essay.

The invention of the computer has made our lives easier. The device is used for many purposes, such as securing information, messages, data processing, software programming, calculations, etc. A desktop computer has a CPU, UPS, monitor, keyboard, and mouse to work. A laptop is a modern form of computer in which all the components are inbuilt into a single device. Earlier, computers were not so fast and powerful. After thorough and meticulous research and work by various scientists, modern-day computers have come up.

History of Computers

The history of computer development is often used to reference the different generations of computing devices. Each generation of computers is characterised by a major technological development that fundamentally changed the way computers work. Most of the major developments from the 1940s to the present day have resulted in increasingly smaller, more powerful, faster, cheaper and more efficient computing devices.

The evolution of computer technology is often divided into five generations. These five generations of computers are as follows:

Uses of Computers

Computers are used in various fields. Some of the applications are

1. Business

A computer can perform a high-speed calculation more efficiently and accurately, due to which it is used in all business organisations. In business, computers are used for:

  • Payroll calculations
  • Sales analysis
  • Maintenance of stocks
  • Managing employee databases

2. Education

Computers are very useful in the education system. Especially now, during the COVID time, online education has become the need of the hour. There are miscellaneous ways through which an institution can use computers to educate students.

3. Health Care

Computers have become an important part of hospitals, labs and dispensaries. They are used for the scanning and diagnosis of different diseases. Computerised machines do scans, which include ECG, EEG, ultrasound and CT Scan, etc. Moreover, they are used in hospitals to keep records of patients and medicines.

Computers are largely used in defence. The military employs computerised control systems, modern tanks, missiles, weapons, etc. It uses computers for communication, operation and planning, smart weapons, etc.

5. Government

Computers play an important role in government services. Some major fields are:

  • Computation of male/female ratio
  • Computerisation of PAN card
  • Income Tax Department
  • Weather forecasting
  • Computerisation of voters’ lists
  • Sales Tax Department

6. Communication

Communication is a way to convey an idea, a message, a picture, a speech or any form of text, audio or video clip. Computers are capable of doing so. Through computers, we can send an email, chat with each other, do video conferencing, etc.

Nowadays, to a large extent, banking is dependent on computers. Banks provide an online accounting facility, which includes checking current balances, making deposits and overdrafts, checking interest charges, shares, trustee records, etc. The ATM machines, which are fully automated, use computers, making it easier for customers to deal with banking transactions.

8. Marketing

In marketing, computers are mainly used for advertising and home shopping.

Similarly, there are various other applications of computers in other fields, such as insurance, engineering, design, etc.

Students can practise more essays on different topics to improve their writing skills. Keep learning and stay tuned with BYJU’S for the latest update on CBSE/ICSE/State Board/Competitive Exams. Also, download the BYJU’S App for interactive study videos.

Frequently asked Questions on Computer Essay

How has the invention of the computer been useful to students.

Easy and ready access to information has been possible (internet) with the invention of the computer.

How to start writing an essay on a computer?

Before writing an essay, first plan the topics, sub-topics and main points which are going to be included in the body of the essay. Then, structure the content accordingly and check for information and examples.

How to use the computer to browse for information on essays?

Various search engines are available, like Google, where plenty of information can be obtained regarding essays and essay structures.

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Essay On Laptop

where to write essay on laptop

Currently, the laptops are the most favorite choice for students because of their portability and the ability to work on a variety of tasks. With the advancement in technology, however, there are now other types of laptops that are gaining popularity, such as ultrabooks. In this article, we will be discussing the different types of laptops and what factors to consider when purchasing one.

Table of Contents

Short Essay On Laptop

A laptop, also known as a notebook, is a portable computer that can be easily carried and used in a variety of settings. With the advancements in technology, laptops have become an essential tool for both personal and professional use.

Laptops are designed for ease of use and portability, making them a convenient option for those who need to work or study on-the-go. They come in a variety of sizes and specifications, making it possible for users to choose a laptop that suits their needs and budget. Laptops are equipped with a variety of features such as a touchpad, keyboard, and screen, which make them more user-friendly compared to traditional desktop computers.

In terms of performance, laptops are now more powerful than ever before. With the integration of powerful processors and graphics cards, laptops are capable of handling demanding tasks such as video editing, 3D modeling, and gaming. This makes laptops a versatile option for professionals in fields such as graphic design, architecture, and engineering.

Moreover, laptops have also made it easier for people to stay connected to the internet and communicate with others. With built-in Wi-Fi and Bluetooth capabilities, laptops allow users to easily access the internet, send emails, and connect with friends and family through social media. This has also made it possible for people to work remotely, which has become increasingly important in light of the COVID-19 pandemic.

In conclusion, laptops have revolutionized the way we work, learn, and communicate. With their portability, performance, and user-friendly design, laptops have become an essential tool for people of all ages and professions. As technology continues to advance, we can expect to see even more powerful and versatile laptops in the future.

Long Essay On Laptop

A laptop is a portable personal computer that typically has a display size of at least 13 inches (33 cm) diagonally, and uses a mobile operating system. A typical laptop contains an Intel Core i3 processor, 4GB of RAM, 500GB hard drive, and either a NVIDIA GeForce GT 750M or AMD Radeon R7 M360 graphics card. Laptops are generally lightweight and have no moving parts, making them more durable than traditional computers.

Types of Laptops

There are many types of laptops available in the market these days. Here we are discussing some of the most popular types of laptops. These include:

  • Laptops for Students : Laptops for students are usually lightweight and have a low price tag. They are perfect for students who need to take up few classes or do some light research work. Some of the best-selling laptops for students include Dell Inspiron 15 7000, HP Spectre x360, Acer Aspire E 15 E5-575G-57D4, and Lenovo Ideapad 330s.
  • Ultrabooks : Ultrabooks are the latest type of laptop that has come up in the market. They are slim and have a very fast processor. They usually have high-resolution displays as well as high-end features like fingerprint readers and backlit keyboards. Some of the best ultrabooks available in the market include Dell XPS 13 9360, Apple MacBook Pro 2017 with Touch Bar (13 inch), and Asus ZenBook UX330UA-AH71TUX30US.
  • Chromebooks : Chromebooks are becoming more popular these days because they offer great value for money. They run on Google’s Chrome OS which is a lightweight operating system that is easy to use and has plenty of applications available preinstalled on it. The best Chromebooks available in the market include HP Stream 11 G6 EE (Chrome OS), Samsung Galaxy Tab S2 9.7 (Chrome OS), and Dell Inspiron 13 7000 (Chrome OS).

Specifications of Laptops

Today, laptops have become one of the most popular tools for students, businessmen and other professionals. Many people are now buying laptops to replace their desktop computers. Laptops come in a variety of sizes, weights and prices. A laptop is a portable computer that is typically used for work or school applications. Some important specifications to look for when purchasing a laptop include the processor type, number of ports, RAM size and hard drive size.

Most laptops today come with either an Intel or AMD processor. The processors determine the speed of the computer as well as how many tasks it can handle at once. Laptops with an Intel processor tend to be faster than those with an AMD processor. Laptop manufacturers also offer different numbers of ports on their machines ranging from one to several dozen. This includes USB ports, DisplayPorts (for connecting external displays), Ethernet ports, audio ports and more. It is important to consider what kind of peripherals you will need in order to use your laptop – such as printers, mice and speakers – before making your purchase.

RAM (random access memory) is another important specification to look for when purchasing a laptop. Laptops with 8GB or more of RAM are usually able to handle multiple tasks at once without slowing down too much. However, 4GB or less is still adequate for most users’ needs. Some high-end models may even have up to 64GB of RAM! Hard drives come in a variety of sizes starting at around 1TB and going up to 4TB. It is important to decide how much storage you need and what kind of file types you will be using. Laptops with a larger hard drive are usually more expensive.

Laptops come in a variety of colors, weights and prices. Prices can range from around $700 to $4,000 or more. Some high-end models may even have features such as anti-theft systems and backlit keyboards that increase their cost. It is important to consider your needs when making a purchase – such as the processor type, number of ports, RAM size and hard drive size – so that you can find the perfect laptop for you!

How to Choose the Right Laptop for You

Different people have different needs when it comes to laptops. If you’re a student, you might need something light and portable. If you’re a businessperson, you might need something with more power.

There are many factors to consider when choosing the right laptop for you: what type of computer do you want it to be? how much money are you willing to spend? what features are important to you?

We’ve put together some tips on how to choose the right laptop for your needs, based on the kind of computer that you want and your budget.

When choosing a laptop, think about what type of computer it will be used for. Do you want a laptop that is primarily for entertainment or work? You’ll need to decide if a Windows or Mac platform is best for you.

Once you’ve decided which type of computer to buy, take into account your budget. Laptops can range from around $500 all the way up to over $2,000+. It’s important to figure out what features are most important to you and find a laptop that has those features at an affordable price.

Some other factors that should be considered when purchasing a laptop include battery life, weight and portability. Make sure the battery life is good enough so that you can use the device without having to plug it in frequently; also make sure the weight is manageable since laptops often take up more space than regular computers.

How to Use a Laptop

If you are looking to purchase a laptop, there are a few things that you should keep in mind. First, decide what you need the laptop for. Do you need a laptop for school, work, or entertainment? Second, decide what type of laptop you want. Do you want an Apple MacBook Air or something more budget-friendly like the Dell Inspiron 1525? Third, consider your budget. Laptops can range from around $300 to over $2,000+. Fourth, consider your needs. Do you need a laptop with a touchscreen or not? Fifth, consider your lifestyle. Are you someone who is constantly on the go and needs a lightweight laptop that can fit in your pocket or do you enjoy using a desktop computer at home and want to take that with you when travelling? Sixth, consider how much time you will be spending using the laptop each day and whether or not an operating system (OS) is necessary. Seventh, make sure to research which laptops have the features that are important to you. Eighth, test out different laptops before making your purchase so that you know which one fits your needs best. Ninth and finally, be sure to have insurance on your new laptop in case something happens while it’s being used!

The laptop is a very important part of our lives. It allows us to do many things that we couldn’t do before, including working from anywhere in the world. There are a lot of benefits to having a laptop, and it can be difficult to decide which one is right for you. In this essay, we will discuss some of the main benefits of owning a laptop and how they can benefit your life.

Manisha Dubey Jha

Manisha Dubey Jha is a skilled educational content writer with 5 years of experience. Specializing in essays and paragraphs, she’s dedicated to crafting engaging and informative content that enriches learning experiences.

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Essay on My Computer

Students are often asked to write an essay on My Computer in their schools and colleges. And if you’re also looking for the same, we have created 100-word, 250-word, and 500-word essays on the topic.

Let’s take a look…

100 Words Essay on My Computer

Introduction.

My computer is an essential tool in my life. It is a device that assists me with my studies, hobbies, and communication.

Use in Studies

I use my computer for research, completing assignments, and learning new things. It makes studying easier and more efficient.

Leisure and Communication

In my free time, I play games and watch movies on my computer. It also helps me stay connected with friends and family through social media and email.

Overall, my computer is a valuable resource that aids in my education and personal life.

250 Words Essay on My Computer

Academic utility.

As a college student, my computer serves as my academic lifeline. It is an essential tool for research, typing assignments, and attending virtual classes. It affords me the convenience of accessing a plethora of academic resources, ranging from scholarly articles to online lectures.

Communication and Networking

With the advent of social networking sites and email services, my computer has become a vital communication tool. It allows me to connect with peers, professors, and professionals around the globe, fostering a sense of global community.

Creative Outlet

Beyond academics and communication, my computer serves as a platform for creative expression. Whether it’s graphic design, music production, or writing, it supports various forms of artistic pursuits, enabling me to explore and express my creativity.

Leisure and Entertainment

My computer is also my primary source of entertainment. From streaming movies and music to playing video games, it offers a multitude of leisure activities.

In conclusion, my computer is more than just a device; it’s an extension of myself, a tool that enhances my capabilities and broadens my horizons. It’s an academic aid, a communication device, a creative platform, and an entertainment hub. It’s a testament to the power of technology and its profound impact on our lives.

500 Words Essay on My Computer

The evolution of my computer, the hardware.

The hardware of my computer is a marvel of engineering. It houses an Intel Core i7 processor, a powerful chip that can handle multiple tasks simultaneously without compromising speed or efficiency. The 16GB RAM ensures smooth operation, even when running memory-intensive applications. The 1TB solid-state drive offers ample storage, while also quickening load times.

The Software

The software aspect of my computer is as impressive as its hardware. It runs on Windows 10, an operating system that provides a user-friendly interface and a wide array of functionalities. Alongside the OS, various applications cater to different needs. Microsoft Office assists in accomplishing academic tasks, Adobe Photoshop allows for creative exploration, and a multitude of browser-based applications offer endless possibilities.

My Computer as a Tool for Learning

The social aspect.

Computers are not just tools for work and learning; they are also platforms for social interaction. My computer, with its internet connectivity, allows me to communicate with friends, family, and colleagues from around the world. Social media platforms, video conferencing tools, and multiplayer games have transformed the way we interact, making geographical distances irrelevant.

Entertainment and Leisure

My computer offers a variety of entertainment options. From streaming movies and music to playing video games, the possibilities are endless. It also serves as a platform for exploring hobbies such as digital art, blogging, and video editing.

The Impact and Future

In conclusion, my computer is a multifaceted device that has significantly shaped my life. It’s a testament to human ingenuity and the incredible pace of technological advancement. As we continue to innovate and evolve, there’s no telling what the future of computing might hold.

That’s it! I hope the essay helped you.

If you’re looking for more, here are essays on other interesting topics:

Happy studying!

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where to write essay on laptop

More From Forbes

How not to write your college essay.

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If you are looking for the “secret formula” for writing a “winning” college essay, you have come to the wrong place. The reality is there is no silver bullet or strategy to write your way to an acceptance. There is not one topic or approach that will guarantee a favorable outcome.

At the end of the day, every admission office just wants to know more about you, what you value, and what excites you. They want to hear about your experiences through your own words and in your own voice. As you set out to write your essay, you will no doubt get input (both sought-after and unsolicited) on what to write. But how about what NOT Notcoin to write? There are avoidable blunders that applicants frequently make in drafting their essays. I asked college admission leaders, who have read thousands of submissions, to share their thoughts.

Don’t Go In There

There is wide consensus on this first one, so before you call on your Jedi mind tricks or predictive analytics, listen to the voices of a diverse range of admission deans. Peter Hagan, executive director of admissions at Syracuse University, sums it up best, saying, “I would recommend that students try not to get inside of our heads. He adds, “Too often the focus is on what they think we want.”

Andy Strickler, dean of admission and financial aid at Connecticut College agrees, warning, “Do NOT get caught in the trap of trying to figure out what is going to impress the admission committee. You have NO idea who is going to read your essay and what is going to connect with them. So, don't try to guess that.” Victoria Romero, vice president for enrollment, at Scripps College adds, “Do not write about something you don’t care about.” She says, “I think students try to figure out what an admission officer wants to read, and the reality is the reader begins every next essay with no expectations about the content THEY want to read.” Chrystal Russell, dean of admission at Hampden-Sydney College, agrees, saying, “If you're not interested in writing it, we will not be interested when reading it.” Jay Jacobs, vice provost for enrollment management at the University of Vermont elaborates, advising. “Don’t try to make yourself sound any different than you are.” He says, “The number one goal for admission officers is to better understand the applicant, what they like to do, what they want to do, where they spend the majority of their time, and what makes them tick. If a student stays genuine to that, it will shine through and make an engaging and successful essay.”

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Don’t Be Artificial

The headlines about college admission are dominated by stories about artificial intelligence and the college essay. Let’s set some ground rules–to allow ChatGPT or some other tool to do your work is not only unethical, it is also unintelligent. The only worse mistake you could make is to let another human write your essay for you. Instead of preoccupying yourself with whether or not colleges are using AI detection software (most are not), spend your time focused on how best to express yourself authentically. Rick Clark is the executive director of strategic student success at Georgia Institute of Technology, one of the first institutions to clearly outline their AI policy for applicants. He says, “Much of a college application is devoted to lines, boxes, and numbers. Essays and supplements are the one place to establish connection, personality, and distinction. AI, in its current state, is terrible at all three.” He adds, “My hope is that students will use ChatGPT or other tools for brainstorming and to get started, but then move quickly into crafting an essay that will provide insight and value.”

Don’t Overdo It

Michael Stefanowicz, vice president for enrollment management at Landmark College says, “You can only cover so much detail about yourself in an admission essay, and a lot of students feel pressure to tell their life story or choose their most defining experience to date as an essay topic. Admission professionals know that you’re sharing just one part of your lived experience in the essay.” He adds, “Some of the favorite essays I’ve read have been episodic, reflecting on the way you’ve found meaning in a seemingly ordinary experience, advice you’ve lived out, a mistake you’ve learned from, or a special tradition in your life.” Gary Ross, vice president for admission and financial aid at Colgate University adds, “More than a few applicants each year craft essays that talk about the frustration and struggles they have experienced in identifying a topic for their college application essay. Presenting your college application essay as a smorgasbord of topics that ultimately landed on the cutting room floor does not give us much insight into an applicant.”

Don’t Believe In Magic

Jason Nevinger, senior director of admission at the University of Rochester warns, “Be skeptical of anyone or any company telling you, ‘This is the essay that got me into _____.’ There is no magic topic, approach, sentence structure, or prose that got any student into any institution ever.” Social media is littered with advertisements promising strategic essay help. Don’t waste your time, energy, or money trying to emulate a certain style, topic, or tone. Liz Cheron is chief executive officer for the Coalition for College and former assistant vice president of enrollment & dean of admissions at Northeastern University. She agrees with Nevinger, saying “Don't put pressure on yourself to find the perfect, slam dunk topic. The vast majority of college essays do exactly what they're supposed to do–they are well-written and tell the admission officer more about the student in that student's voice–and that can take many different forms.”

Don’t Over Recycle

Beatrice Atkinson-Myers, associate director of global recruitment at the University of California at Santa Cruz tells students, “Do not use the same response for each university; research and craft your essay to match the program at the university you are interested in studying. Don't waste time telling me things I can read elsewhere in your application. Use your essay to give the admissions officer insights into your motivations, interests, and thinking. Don't make your essay the kitchen sink, focus on one or two examples which demonstrate your depth and creativity.” Her UC colleague, Jim Rawlins, associate vice chancellor of enrollment management at the University of California at San Diego agrees, saying “Answer the question. Not doing so is the surest way we can tell you are simply giving us a snippet of something you actually wrote for a different purpose.”

Don’t Overedit

Emily Roper-Doten, vice president for undergraduate admissions and financial assistance at Clark University warns against “Too many editors!” She says, “Pick a couple of trusted folks to be your sounding board when considering topics and as readers once you have drafts. You don’t want too many voices in your essay to drown you out!” Scripps’ Romero agrees, suggesting, “Ask a good friend, someone you trust and knows you well, to read your essays.” She adds, “The goal is for the admission committee to get to know a little about you and who better to help you create that framework, than a good friend. This may not work for all students because of content but helps them understand it’s important to be themselves.” Whitney Soule, vice provost and dean of admissions at The University of Pennsylvania adds, “Avoid well-meaning editorial interference that might seem to polish your writing but actually takes your own personal ‘shine’ right out of the message.” She says, “As readers, we connect to applicants through their genuine tone and style. Considering editorial advice for flow and message is OK but hold on to the 'you' for what you want to say and how you want to say it.”

Don’t Get Showy

Palmer Muntz, senior regional admissions counselor at the University of Alaska Fairbanks cautions applicants, “Don’t be fancier than you are. You don’t need to put on airs.” He adds, “Yes, proofread your work for grammar and spelling, but be natural. Craft something you’d want to read yourself, which probably means keeping your paragraphs short, using familiar words, and writing in an active voice.” Connecticut College’s Strickler agrees, warning, “Don't try to be someone you are not. If you are not funny, don't try to write a funny essay. If you are not an intellectual, trying to write an intellectual essay is a bad idea.”

Anthony Jones, the vice president of enrollment management at Loyola University New Orleans offers a unique metaphor for thinking about the essay. He says, “In the new world of the hyper-fast college admission process, it's become easy to overlook the essential meaning of the college application. It's meant to reveal Y...O...U, the real you, not some phony digital avatar. Think of the essay as the essence of that voice but in analog. Like the completeness and authenticity captured in a vinyl record, the few lines you're given to explain your view should be a slow walk through unrestrained expression chock full of unapologetic nuances, crevices of emotion, and exactness about how you feel in the moment. Then, and only then, can you give the admissions officer an experience that makes them want to tune in and listen for more.”

Don’t Be A Downer

James Nondorf, vice president and dean of admissions and financial aid at The University of Chicago says, “Don’t be negative about other people, be appreciative of those who have supported you, and be excited about who you are and what you will bring to our campus!” He adds, “While admissions offices want smart students for our classrooms, we also want kind-hearted, caring, and joyous students who will add to our campus communities too.”

Don’t Pattern Match

Alan Ramirez is the dean of admission and financial aid at Sewanee, The University of the South. He explains, “A big concern I have is when students find themselves comparing their writing to other students or past applicants and transform their writing to be more like those individuals as a way to better their chances of offering a more-compelling essay.” He emphasizes that the result is that the “essay is no longer authentic nor the best representation of themselves and the whole point of the essay is lost. Their distinctive voice and viewpoint contribute to the range of voices in the incoming class, enhancing the diversity of perspectives we aim to achieve.” Ramirez simple tells students, “Be yourself, that’s what we want to see, plus there's no one else who can do it better than you!”

Don’t Feel Tied To A Topic

Jessica Ricker is the vice president for enrollment and dean of admissions and financial aid at Skidmore College. She says, “Sometimes students feel they must tell a story of grief or hardship, and then end up reliving that during the essay-writing process in ways that are emotionally detrimental. I encourage students to choose a topic they can reflect upon positively but recommend that if they choose a more challenging experience to write about, they avoid belaboring the details and instead focus on the outcome of that journey.” She adds, "They simply need to name it, frame its impact, and then help us as the reader understand how it has shaped their lens on life and their approach moving forward.”

Landmark College’s Stefanowicz adds, “A lot of students worry about how personal to get in sharing a part of their identity like your race or heritage (recalling last year’s Supreme Court case about race-conscious admissions), a learning difference or other disability, your religious values, LGBTQ identity…the list goes on.” He emphasizes, “This is always your choice, and your essay doesn’t have to be about a defining identity. But I encourage you to be fully yourself as you present yourself to colleges—because the college admission process is about finding a school where your whole self is welcome and you find a setting to flourish!”

Don’t Be Redundant

Hillen Grason Jr., dean of admission at Franklin & Marshall College, advises, “Don't repeat academic or co-curricular information that is easily identifiable within other parts of your application unless the topic is a core tenant of you as an individual.” He adds, “Use your essay, and other parts of your application, wisely. Your essay is the best way to convey who your authentic self is to the schools you apply. If you navigated a situation that led to a dip in your grades or co-curricular involvement, leverage the ‘additional information’ section of the application.

Thomas Marr is a regional manager of admissions for the Americas at The University of St Andrews in Scotland and points out that “Not all international schools use the main college essay as part of their assessment when reviewing student applications.” He says, “At the University of St Andrews, we focus on the supplemental essay and students should avoid the mistake of making the supplemental a repeat of their other essay. The supplemental (called the Personal Statement if using the UCAS application process) is to show the extent of their passion and enthusiasm for the subject/s to which they are applying and we expect about 75% of the content to cover this. They can use the remaining space to mention their interests outside of the classroom. Some students confuse passion for the school with passion for their subject; do not fall into that trap.”

A Few Final Don’ts

Don’t delay. Every college applicant I have ever worked with has wished they had started earlier. You can best avoid the pitfalls above if you give yourself the time and space to write a thoughtful essay and welcome feedback openly but cautiously. Don’t put too much pressure on yourself to be perfect . Do your best, share your voice, and stay true to who you are.

Brennan Barnard

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A picture of the first lady, Jill Biden, smiling with her hands clasped at Joe Biden.

Opinion ‘Michelle Cottle

The ‘Philly Girl’ Shielding Biden From the Bad News

Credit... Damon Winter/The New York Times

Supported by

Michelle Cottle

By Michelle Cottle

Michelle Cottle writes about national politics for Opinion and is a host of the podcast “Matter of Opinion.”

  • July 3, 2024

Amid the public fretting and finger-pointing rage over how to deal with a Democratic presidential nominee who most Americans think is too old for the job, some of the frustration is being directed at the first lady, Jill Biden. Which has me thinking back to one of the viral moments from her husband’s 2020 campaign.

On the night of Super Tuesday, as Joe Biden was delivering his celebratory speech at a rally in Los Angeles, two anti-dairy demonstrators rushed the stage , only to run smack up against the protective wall of Dr. Biden. With impressively fleet feet — rocking metallic sling-back pumps, no less — she inserted herself between her man and potential harm. There is an amazing photo of her grimacing and holding a protester at bay by the wrists as Mr. Biden looks on with concern. “We’re OK,” she assured everyone once the spectacle was over. “We’re OK.”

Notably, this was not the first time the candidate’s wife had served as a human shield for him in that race. Less than a month earlier, on the eve of the New Hampshire primary, she blocked an aggressive heckler and then showed him the door, joking afterward , “I’m a good Philly girl.”

Philly tough. That is who Dr. Biden is, fiercely and reflexively, when it comes to protecting and supporting her husband. This has been her role since the couple’s courting days, when he was a young senator struggling to recover from losing his first wife and baby daughter in a car crash. And those looking to recruit her to encourage Mr. Biden to reconsider his presidential bid may sorely misunderstand her — and their marriage.

“She gave me back my life,” he gushed of Dr. Biden in his 2007 memoir, “Promises to Keep.” Even before officially joining the family, she became a surrogate mother to his two young sons. And for nearly half a century since, she has sustained her husband through enough high-intensity drama to shatter a lesser spouse: his near-fatal aneurysm, the death of his oldest child, the disastrous drug addiction of his younger son, multiple presidential runs.

Which means that if Mr. Biden is determined to stay in this race, Jilly, as he calls her, is going to have his back. Period. Even if much of his own party suspects that he is very much not OK. In fact, the more that elite establishment types clamor for him to move aside, the more Dr. Biden is likely to get her back up.

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