1. Essay Writing Tips
LAW

2. Starting Point – Instruction Words
We know that written words are open to interpretation!
ALLaN Common Instruction Words Study Guide
Instruction-Words.pdf
Outline: Provide a general description or summary of the main features.
Critically analyse: Provide an in depth examination of the strengths and weaknesses of the ideas/arguments in the assessment question/statement supported by evidence.
Compare: Show the similarities between two or more issues; identify two or more views on the same issue and discuss the similarities and differences.
Explain: Provide a detailed account of an issue, process or event; offer reasons why, describe cause and effect.

3. Getting Started How do I start?
Start with an Introduction, then address the parts, then a conclusion
Use subheadings to ensure you address each part
Instruction words:
Critically analyse: provide an in depth examination of the strengths and weaknesses of the ideas/arguments put forward in your selected case, supported by evidence

4. Finer Details In your response:
You must show evidence of an ability to plan and apply research strategies
Use a minimum of 6 peer reviewed and credible academic sources (this does not include dictionaries, blogs or web pages)
You must use supporting evidence to back up your assumptions
Be selective in your research – focus on authoritative and academic sources
Pay attention to your formatting

5. Writing Tips: paragraphs
P – make 1 point per paragraph
Topic sentence
E – Explain and Evidence
Develop your point/explain reasoning. Apply theory/explain cause and effect.
Stepping stone approach – build up your point
Use examples to support/illustrate point
E – Evaluation
Weigh up the points outlined? Do they explain the whole argument/position? No? why not?
What else do we need to consider?
L - Link to question
Draw on the essay title and explain how the point has provided a partial answer to the question. Then explain what point you will be making in the next paragraph

6. Writing Tips: paragraphs

7. Proof reading Create a spare copy of your essay
Delete everything EXCEPT: introduction, topic sentences, conclusions
Can you identify the development of your argument?
Does it answer the thesis statement?
If yes, you have a coherent essay

8. Writing Tips: grammar
Good grammar is crucial to convey a clear argument
Don’t try to overcomplicate the message by using overly formal language
Avoid repetition
Keep your tense consistent
Watch your plurals and apostrophes
Random Caps! Ask yourself is it necessary?
Colon v’s semi colon
“:” introduces or defines something;
“;” separates things, most commonly, two related clauses which could stand on their own
Pet habits – “in which” / “in relation to” / “furthermore”… make sure it serves a purpose
Legislation has no plural – it is a law or body of laws

9. Writing Tips: referencing
Must use AGLC4 referencing
Generally reference at end of sentence, not mid-sentence
If you cite directly from a source, you must include the pin point reference to the page or paragraph of the source in brackets in-text
Put legislation and case law in italics
Include abbreviated jurisdiction in brackets after the year of legislation eg. Criminal Code Act 1995 (Cth)
Footnotes should be in a subscript and consistent font
Bibliography should follow on a new page

10. Final Tips Fix spelling – but don’t just rely on spellcheck
Keep sentences simple
Ensure you have answered each part of the question
If you are well over the word count, take a break and go back to the question – focus on what is asked, check that you have apportioned your response appropriately
Look for repetition
Be direct – say it like it is, avoid waffle
Extension requests (with grounds) required before the due date

11. Remember! You must use AGLC4 referencing (footnotes + bibliography)
Check your word count (+/-10%)
Proofread it!
Ask ALLaN to review your work
Use the CLJ submission template
Run it through turnitin
Submit via EASTS