Essay checklist

Essay checklist

Form

• Is the essay written with correct spelling, correct punctuation and fitting expression?
• Does the essay use effective academic language?
• Is the word limit adhered to and used befittingly?
• Is the referencing appropriate and relevant?
• Is there a well-presented bibliography with properly cited references?

Structure and organisation

1. Are the introduction and conclusion clear, succinct and relevant?

2. Does the essay organise its paragraphs in a logical and cohesive way?

3. Is each paragraph structured in a logical and coherent way?

4. Are there appropriate links between the paragraphs, introduction and conclusion?

5. Does the essay present a clear contention or argument?

Theory and case study

Theoretical understanding and explanation

• Does the essay use appropriate theories within the course to support the contention of the

essay?

• Does the essay present an adequate understanding and correct explanation of the theories?
• Are the theories applied in a relevant and effective manner?
• Does the essay appropriately apply the theories to support the main contention?

Case study and analysis

• Does the essay include a relevant case study or example?
• Does the essay explain the case study succinctly and sufficiently?
• Does the essay present critical analysis of the case study?
• Does the essay demonstrate logical reasonings of the premises?

Soundness and originality

• Is the analysis relevant and sound?
• Does the analysis and explanation support a valid contention or

argument?

• Does the essay demonstrate originality in its contention, analysis,

theoretical application or the use of case study?

• Does the essay present interesting contention, analysis, theoretical

explanation or the use of case study?