In this way, you will be clearly exhibiting to the Examiners that you have fully understood, relevantly interpreted, applied and evaluated the question being addressed. Read the question carefully, fully and a number of times. The secret of producing a relevant essay lies in reading the question carefully several times, Find the action words, e.g. Assess, Discuss. Some words may need to be defined. Each new paragraph must be relevant.
Good essays start boldly, develop a theme or several themes, and conclude confidently .
Conclusions often include evaluation although evaluative points should be raised throughout the essay. Do not be tempted to waffle, saying the same thing three different ways does not impress. Using bland meaningless phrases may use up paper - it doesn t score marks. Offer some examples - application often means using examples to show you can apply the theory or concept to a new situation, film, TV current affairs programmes, as well as sociological research. Personal experience can also illustrate a point but do be careful that you are using it to make a sociological point.