Writing a "How to ..." Essay

Today, Kevin will explain how to write a simple version of a "How to ..." Essay. Basically, this essay explains the secret to doing something well. For example, perhaps you are good at taking the TOEIC test. If you don't mind revealing your secret, you can explain "How to Score Well on the TOEIC Test". Or maybe you are good at getting ready for school in the morning. You can give us your good advice on "How to Get Ready for School Quickly".

Please try to think of an interesting fun topic. Weird or strange or unbelievable is OK! Please do not tell us how to cook something. Usually that is a boring topic.

Below are some essays from last year (2011). Notice that both essays below have ...

1) An introduction
2) 3 steps, or 3 pieces of advice
4) Transition words - First, Next, Finally
5) A conclusion
6) A total of 5 paragraphs. However, if you have have more than 3 steps or 3 pieces of advice, you may have more than 5 paragraphs.

Notice this about the introduction:
1) It tries to get you interested in the topic
2) It has a thesis sentence at the end of the paragraph. The thesis sentence tells what the writer is explaining how to do. The thesis sentence is usually almost the same as the title.

Notice this about the conclusion:
1) It summarizes (repeats) the advice simply.
2) It adds a final thought that makes the essay come to an end.

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How to Travel in Kyoto
by S.Y.

Summer vacation is drawing near. You can do a lot of things in the summer. What do you want to do? Where do you want to travel? There are many famous places in Japan. I think one of the best places is Kyoto. Now I will tell you how to travel in Kyoto.

First, before going to Kyoto, buy an easy map of Kyoto. Kyoto is a very complex place, so you may lose your way, especially if it's your first visit. Books about travel in Kyoto are sold at any bookstore. There will surely be a map inside. Glance at the books at the bookstore and choose one that fits you and you'll get the best map. Of course, I already have one.

Next, check the places you want to visit. If you don't check them, they may be closed. It is too unlucky. Also, in Kyoto, there are festivals anytime and anywhere. The festivals are historic and traditional. You don't want to miss them. And don't forget to take pictures!

Finally, prepare well. If it rains or you get injured and you're not prepared, your mood will be low. It is important for you to prepare an umbrella and a first-aid kit. If you have to share them with your friends, they will be pleased. Forewarned is forearmed!

To summarize, you must prepare in advance. Before going to Kyoto, buy an easy map, check the places and prepare well, including an umbrella and a first-aid kit. Then I have no doubt you will enjoy traveling. But the best way to enjoy Kyoto is by going with a friend.

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How to Learn to Speak English
by C.S.

I love English. I entered Tsurumi University's English Literature Course because I wanted to learn English. By learning English, I will gain English skills to use in my future job. I want to exert the greatest possible effort now. I'll tell you how to become a good English speaker.

First, always try to discover interesting new English things. For example, find new English or American singers, listen to English music, read an English book, or watch English movies or TV. I think that studying English should mainly be enjoying interesting things in English. You can feel close to English and you will love it more and more.

Next, make many friends who are native speakers at every possible moment. It's the best way. If you have questions about English, you can ask them, and you may resolve your questions soon. The native speaker will help you understand about the English-speaking world. Native speakers can give you a better understanding of their culture, history, literature and various lifestyle situations.

Finally, the actual experience of going abroad is essential. I suggest that you live abroad with a local family. I have been to England for two weeks and I lived with a family there. It was a valuable experience for me. Whatever difficulty you may meet, the experience will increase your knowledge.

To summarize, you can make definite progress in your English if you follow the above mentioned points. You should look for interesting English things, make many native speaker friends, and go abroad. If you love English, you will make progress for sure. I study English with confidence because I believe in my potential.

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How Not to Be Late

Sample essay by FS

It is cold recently, especially early in the morning. Since it is warm in our bed, it is difficult to get up. Even if our eyes are open, we go back to sleep immediately. Consequently, we are often late for school. If we’re late, our grades will go down. This is a serious problem. Now, I’ll tell you how not to be late.

First, before going to bed, choose the clothes, bag and shoes which you will wear to school the next day. If you choose your things the night before, you will not waste time deciding in the morning. Actually, I have been 30 minutes late wasting time choosing my clothes in the morning.

Next, set two alarm clocks. One is set earlier than the time you want to wake up, and the other is set on time. I can't wake up immediately, so if I set only one alarm clock, I will fall back asleep. Setting two alarm clocks is safer.

Finally, get up in the morning and eat something quick and easy, such as yogurt or a banana for breakfast. Why eat food like this? It takes less time to chew, and it's very kind to the stomach. There is little time for breakfast, but you can come out of your house without being hungry.

To summarize, there are three simple steps to not being late. Before going to bed, choose your clothes, bag and shoes. Also, set two alarm clocks, and eat quick and easy food for breakfast. If you are not late in the morning, but on time, you will spend the whole day with a fresh feeling. If you follow these 3 rules, you will certainly be on time.