Typically, the sentence structure is not sufficiently varied or forceful. The diction is occasionally marred by repetitions, redundancy, awkwardness, and imprecision. An essay with a D develops its subject in a redundant way. Its introduction is rudimentary, and thesis is confused or tautological. Topic sentences are missing or weak.
Sentences are frequently awkward, ambiguous, and marred by serious mechanical errors.
The essay fails to state, discuss, and develop ideas adequately. Ideas are weakly supported, and they are not clearly and effectively organized. A D implies that the essay is not consistently organized, clear, coherent, or informative. The subject matter of an essay with an F is minimal and inaccurate. The essay is garbled in language or is exceedingly simplistic.