Here are 5 important things to keep in mind when writing an essay in high school:

1. Keep your writing clean and to the point. Teachers appreciate writing that is clear and isn’t too wordy.
2. Write in your own voice. Don’t try to sound too “academic” or “professional,” but instead write down your thoughts in a way that seems natural to you.
3. Don’t try to force in transitional expressions. While transitioning from part to part is important, try not to latch onto certain words such as “however,” or “furthermore.”
4. Express your own thoughts in your essay. Try to stay away from the safer, more clichéd ideas (teachers can tell when you do this).
5. Spend time on all steps of the writing process. The end result will be much stronger if effort is put into all parts of the writing process (prewriting, drafting, revising and editing).