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Common Essay Writing Mistakes and How to Fix Them

The recurring errors that cost UK students marks — and the simple fixes.

7 min read · Written by UK academic writers

Markers see the same mistakes again and again, and most are avoidable. Knowing the usual pitfalls lets you check for them before you submit. Here are the big ones and how to fix each.

Not Answering the Question

The most costly mistake is writing about the topic rather than answering the specific question. Fix it by identifying the command word and scope, and checking every paragraph against the question.

Describing Instead of Analysing

Recounting what sources say, without evaluating them, keeps essays in the lower grades. Fix it by explaining what evidence means and how convincing it is, not just what it states.

Weak Structure and No Argument

Essays that wander without a clear line of reasoning are hard to mark well. Fix it by stating a thesis, planning a paragraph order, and using PEEL to keep each paragraph focused.

• Set out your argument in the introduction
• Give each paragraph one clear point
• Order points so each builds on the last

Poor or Inconsistent Referencing

Missing citations and inconsistent formatting lose marks and risk plagiarism flags. Fix it by recording sources as you research and applying one referencing style consistently.

Skipping the Edit

Submitting a first draft leaves easy marks behind. Fix it by editing for argument and structure, then proofreading for errors, ideally after a short break.

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