Literary Essay/Analysis Tips Make sure your quotations flow with your writing. Average: "Bob grabbed the money and ran as fast as he could." This shows that Bob was afraid that he would get caught. Better: Because Bob runs "as fast as he could" after grabbing the money, it is apparent that he is afraid of being caught (21).

Action vs. Being Verbs - Show, Don't Tell! Average: Amanda is an example of a female hero. Better: Amanda embodies all of the female heroic qualities. Average: When Beowulf fights Grendel, it shows he is strong. Better: Beowulf displays his heroic strength by fighting Grendel.

Avoid: Is, was, has, etc. Try: Shows, demonstrates, embodies The thesaurus is your friend!

Exemplify Definition:serve as an example Synonyms:clarify, demonstrate, depict, display, embody, enlighten, epitomize, evidence, exhibit, illuminate, illustrate, instance, manifest, mirror, personify, quote, represent, show, spell out, symbolize, typify

For your introduction, try presenting an insight about human behavior rather than just summarizing the plot. Average: Beowulf demonstrates all of the Anglo Saxon qualities. Better: In Anglo Saxon times, the measure of a man was based upon bravery and strength. The character of Beowulf serves as a solid example of an epic hero.

Remember! -We only get better with practice. -Make revision and proofreading a habit. -Use an outline or checklist to ensure that you are following all of these guidelines. -A better writer is a better communicator.