Writing essays make up a significant part of any student’s coursework load. College and university students, regardless of the field of study, are required to prepare essays as well as other written pieces such as reports or term papers. These written pieces add up to a rather considerable part of a student’s grades, and are therefore quite important.

Essays are often assigned as coursework tasks for a few, but very significant, reasons:

• The essay allows the instructor or professor to assess the student’s understanding of the subject matter.

• Essay writing enhances the student’s critical thinking and writing skills, among others

• Essay writing also allows the student to learn more about the topic, enhancing his comprehension of the subject matter.

Academic essay writing requires the ability to come up with unique ideas, thoughts and arguments, and put these concepts together in a coherent, logical and easily understandable manner. This ability, together with the other skills necessary to complete a well-written essay – research, analysis and writing skills – should be developed while a student is still in university. Other areas that may be developed through essay writing include:

• Writing academic papers including reports, term papers and dissertations, among others

• Putting together sound and consistent arguments

• Evaluating and assessing ideas and theses of other individuals

• Developing unique and independent thought

• Communicating with one’s audience

The skills that are developed and enhanced through writing essays are essential for success in a student’s future career. Students should learn to embrace all essay writing tasks inasmuch as writing essays, no matter what the subject or topic is, will definitely help in skills development and contribute to one’s future success.