How to Write Better Essays

comfortable converting your pattern notes into the linear form prior

to writing, this might make sense. But remember the importance of

flexibility. Some assignments lend themselves more easily to pattern

notes throughout, while others call for a combination of the two.

In the examination under timed conditions, when you want to

capture the ideas quickly as they come tumbling out, pattern notes are

clearly the most useful. But outside of that, when you’re writing an

essay on a subject for the first time and you’re not pressed for time,

you’ll find the step-by-step patient rehearsal of your arguments in

linear form gives you more control.

146 Planning

Practice exercise 11

Rehearsing your arguments in linear form

Question

‘Advertisers seek only to ensure that consumers make informed

choices.’Discuss.

In the interpretation stage you brainstormed this question in pattern-

note form. With those notes in front of you convert them into linear

notes, rehearsing your arguments in the sort of detail you would need

if you were to write the essay.

Then compare your notes with those below. Your notes may not be

quite so detailed, but it will give you a clear idea of the level of detail

you need to aim for in order to answer most of the problems you’re likely

to face when you come to write.

Answer: linear plan – rehearsing the arguments

‘Advertisers seek only to ensure that consumers make informed

choices.’Discuss.

A Advertisement

1. Just informative:

e.g. railway timetable

(a) no catchy jingles – ‘Let the train take the strain’

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