To write an appealing composition, you need to use accurate language, sentences of different lengths and types, wide and precise vocabulary, correct punctuation and spelling. Your paragraphs must have unity and be linked to show evidence of planning. The topic must be addressed with consistent relevance to keep the interest of the reader aroused and sustained.

Choose a title where you understand each word and on which you have plenty of ideas. Where possible, write about your own experience or a familiar situation. If your language is not strong, choose a narrative or descriptive subject rather than discussion, which needs more sophisticated linguistic techniques.

Before starting to write, plan your work thoroughly i.e. jot your thoughts down in separate paragraphs and arrange them in the most effective order, with clear links between them. Avoid semi-relevant introductions.

Avoid prepared paragraphs that you insert anywhere in the essay or totally irrelevant memorised essays, the inappropriate use of Creole in formal passages, or exaggeration. This causes candidates to lose marks foolishly.

If you are not a strong candidate, concentrate on writing simple, correct English rather than risking more ambitious error-prone expressions. Use pronouns to avoid frequent repetition of nouns. Do not write too much. Leave enough time to read through and correct careless mistakes. To prepare, read well-written books and magazines to get more familiar with the printed word.

Finally, try to be relevant and stick to your topic. Here are a few examples of irrelevance.1. ?A day at the sea-side?. Writing on a day at the river is completely off the point. 2. ?Happy memories?. Writing on exam results is not sufficient as you should deal with more than one memory. 3. ?A day when you felt tired?. Writing on what father did after a cyclone is irrelevant. The essay must speak about you.

Candidates who master the English language sometimes fail just because of irrelevant essays.

<B>Soorab BOODHOO</B>