How to Write A Successful Essay in Psychology

How to Write A Successful Essay in Psychology

Psychology is a marvellous field with a lot to offer to the diligent student. However, even though it is a social science and not a hard and applied science as physics, it is still a difficult topic. Most undergraduate students in psychology find that there is a lot to read and to write. So, how to write a successful academic paper in psychology or in any other of the behavioural sciences?

Rogers Dome at night in Toronto city. Image: Elena

During my undergraduate years I found that the biggest problems when in came to essay is lack of time. Naturally, avoiding procrastination greatly helps in these endeavours. The shows on TV might be interesting and the outings offered by your new roommates might be even more tempting than a night in watching reruns of your favourite sitcom, but those papers aren’t going to write themselves, and those terms terms aren’t going to grade themselves either. And, you, assuming want the best grade you can possibly get.

Three girlfriends who just received an A grade on a psychology paper. Image: Elena

First of all, it is important to have a good atmosphere to write a paper. You must have a good desk, or whichever other space and furniture you choose to write your assignments on (or in, as in the case of a couch or a bed). Hey, no one said you must sit at a desk to write a successful essay, the important part is that you are comfortable. The next and probably most important element, is understanding the assignment. While it may seem trivial, a lot of students take it for granted just how crucial answering the questions outlined in the assignment handout actually is.

A psychology student who failed to hand in his or her term paper. Transformed into a gargoyle as a result. Image: Elena

Okay, so you got your assignment question, you decided on an essay topic, not too narrow so as to have enough information and research published on the subject, but not too broad either so that you can become somewhat of an expert on the issue you will be discussing in your paper. Obviously, it is imperative not to plagiarize. Any words and even ideas taken from other authors must be credited to the sources. Luckily, there exist manuals on the different referencing styles to avoid plagiarism.