Essay Writing Resources
Writing Tips
Expert advice on how to write a compelling and well-structured essay.
Formatting Guidelines
Learn about the formatting requirements and submission standards.
Downloadable Resources
Access templates, guides, and forms to help with your submission.
Frequently Asked Questions
Find answers to common questions about the competition.
Example Essays
Quick Tips
Start with a Strong Thesis
A clear thesis statement sets the direction for your entire essay and helps the reader understand your position.
Research Thoroughly
Gather credible sources and evidence to support your arguments. Quality research strengthens your essay.
Organize Logically
Structure your essay with a clear introduction, body paragraphs that develop your ideas, and a conclusion that reinforces your thesis.
Revise and Edit
Always set aside time to review your essay for content, clarity, grammar, and spelling. Consider having someone else read it too.
Essay Writing Tips
Planning Your Essay
- Understand the prompt thoroughly before you begin writing
- Brainstorm ideas and create an outline to organize your thoughts
- Develop a clear thesis statement that addresses the prompt
- Gather relevant evidence and examples to support your arguments
Writing Your Draft
- Begin with an engaging introduction that presents your thesis
- Develop body paragraphs with topic sentences, evidence, and analysis
- Use transitions to connect ideas and paragraphs smoothly
- Conclude by reinforcing your thesis and offering final thoughts
Revising and Editing
- Check that your essay addresses the prompt completely
- Ensure your arguments are logical and well-supported
- Review for clarity, coherence, and conciseness
- Proofread carefully for grammar, spelling, and punctuation errors
- Consider having someone else review your essay for feedback
Formatting Guidelines
General Requirements
- File Format: .doc, .docx, or .pdf
- Font: Times New Roman, 12-point
- Spacing: Double-spaced
- Margins: 1 inch on all sides
- Page Numbers: Bottom right corner
- Header: Include your name and essay title
Citation Style
All sources should be cited using MLA, APA, or Chicago style format, as specified in the competition guidelines.
Word Count
Essays should be between 1,000 and 1,500 words, unless otherwise specified. The word count does not include citations or bibliography.
Title Page
Include a title page with the following information:
- Essay Title
- Your Name
- School Name
- Grade/Year
- Date
- Word Count
Downloadable Resources
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Essay Template
A pre-formatted template with correct margins, font, and spacing.
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Citation Guide
Quick reference guide for MLA, APA, and Chicago style citations.
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Essay Checklist
A comprehensive checklist to ensure your essay meets all requirements.
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Permission Form
Required form for parental consent (for participants under 18).
Frequently Asked Questions
The competition is open to students in grades 6-12 and college undergraduates. Specific eligibility requirements may vary by competition, so please check the current competition details.
Generally, participants are limited to one submission per competition. However, you may participate in multiple competitions throughout the year.
Essays are evaluated based on the following criteria:
- Relevance to the theme (25%)
- Originality and creativity (25%)
- Quality of writing and structure (25%)
- Analysis and critical thinking (25%)
Each competition will have a panel of judges who review submissions independently before finalizing results.
Results are typically announced 4-6 weeks after the submission deadline. All participants will be notified by email, and winners will be published on our website.
Prizes vary by competition, but typically include:
- First Place: $500 scholarship and publication
- Second Place: $300 scholarship and publication
- Third Place: $150 scholarship and publication
- Honorable Mentions: Certificate and publication
Please check the current competition details for specific prize information.