how to make an essay longer phrases

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• 40 Useful Words and Phrases for Top-Notch Essays

To be truly brilliant, an essay needs to utilise the right language. You could make a great point, but if it’s not intelligently articulated, you almost needn’t have bothered.

Developing the language skills to build an argument and to write persuasively is crucial if you’re to write outstanding essays every time. In this article, we’re going to equip you with the words and phrases you need to write a top-notch essay, along with examples of how to utilise them.

It’s by no means an exhaustive list, and there will often be other ways of using the words and phrases we describe that we won’t have room to include, but there should be more than enough below to help you make an instant improvement to your essay-writing skills.

If you’re interested in developing your language and persuasive skills, Oxford Royale offers summer courses at its Oxford Summer School , Cambridge Summer School , London Summer School , San Francisco Summer School and Yale Summer School . You can study courses to learn english , prepare for careers in law , medicine , business , engineering and leadership.

General explaining

Let’s start by looking at language for general explanations of complex points.

1. In order to

Usage: “In order to” can be used to introduce an explanation for the purpose of an argument. Example: “In order to understand X, we need first to understand Y.”

2. In other words

Usage: Use “in other words” when you want to express something in a different way (more simply), to make it easier to understand, or to emphasise or expand on a point. Example: “Frogs are amphibians. In other words, they live on the land and in the water.”

3. To put it another way

Usage: This phrase is another way of saying “in other words”, and can be used in particularly complex points, when you feel that an alternative way of wording a problem may help the reader achieve a better understanding of its significance. Example: “Plants rely on photosynthesis. To put it another way, they will die without the sun.”

4. That is to say

Usage: “That is” and “that is to say” can be used to add further detail to your explanation, or to be more precise. Example: “Whales are mammals. That is to say, they must breathe air.”

5. To that end

Usage: Use “to that end” or “to this end” in a similar way to “in order to” or “so”. Example: “Zoologists have long sought to understand how animals communicate with each other. To that end, a new study has been launched that looks at elephant sounds and their possible meanings.”

Adding additional information to support a point

Students often make the mistake of using synonyms of “and” each time they want to add further information in support of a point they’re making, or to build an argument. Here are some cleverer ways of doing this.

6. Moreover

Usage: Employ “moreover” at the start of a sentence to add extra information in support of a point you’re making. Example: “Moreover, the results of a recent piece of research provide compelling evidence in support of…”

7. Furthermore

Usage:This is also generally used at the start of a sentence, to add extra information. Example: “Furthermore, there is evidence to suggest that…”

8. What’s more

Usage: This is used in the same way as “moreover” and “furthermore”. Example: “What’s more, this isn’t the only evidence that supports this hypothesis.”

9. Likewise

Usage: Use “likewise” when you want to talk about something that agrees with what you’ve just mentioned. Example: “Scholar A believes X. Likewise, Scholar B argues compellingly in favour of this point of view.”

10. Similarly

Usage: Use “similarly” in the same way as “likewise”. Example: “Audiences at the time reacted with shock to Beethoven’s new work, because it was very different to what they were used to. Similarly, we have a tendency to react with surprise to the unfamiliar.”

11. Another key thing to remember

Usage: Use the phrase “another key point to remember” or “another key fact to remember” to introduce additional facts without using the word “also”. Example: “As a Romantic, Blake was a proponent of a closer relationship between humans and nature. Another key point to remember is that Blake was writing during the Industrial Revolution, which had a major impact on the world around him.”

12. As well as

Usage: Use “as well as” instead of “also” or “and”. Example: “Scholar A argued that this was due to X, as well as Y.”

13. Not only… but also

Usage: This wording is used to add an extra piece of information, often something that’s in some way more surprising or unexpected than the first piece of information. Example: “Not only did Edmund Hillary have the honour of being the first to reach the summit of Everest, but he was also appointed Knight Commander of the Order of the British Empire.”

14. Coupled with

Usage: Used when considering two or more arguments at a time. Example: “Coupled with the literary evidence, the statistics paint a compelling view of…”

15. Firstly, secondly, thirdly…

Usage: This can be used to structure an argument, presenting facts clearly one after the other. Example: “There are many points in support of this view. Firstly, X. Secondly, Y. And thirdly, Z.

16. Not to mention/to say nothing of

Usage: “Not to mention” and “to say nothing of” can be used to add extra information with a bit of emphasis. Example: “The war caused unprecedented suffering to millions of people, not to mention its impact on the country’s economy.”

Words and phrases for demonstrating contrast

When you’re developing an argument, you will often need to present contrasting or opposing opinions or evidence – “it could show this, but it could also show this”, or “X says this, but Y disagrees”. This section covers words you can use instead of the “but” in these examples, to make your writing sound more intelligent and interesting.

17. However

Usage: Use “however” to introduce a point that disagrees with what you’ve just said. Example: “Scholar A thinks this. However, Scholar B reached a different conclusion.”

18. On the other hand

Usage: Usage of this phrase includes introducing a contrasting interpretation of the same piece of evidence, a different piece of evidence that suggests something else, or an opposing opinion. Example: “The historical evidence appears to suggest a clear-cut situation. On the other hand, the archaeological evidence presents a somewhat less straightforward picture of what happened that day.”

19. Having said that

Usage: Used in a similar manner to “on the other hand” or “but”. Example: “The historians are unanimous in telling us X, an agreement that suggests that this version of events must be an accurate account. Having said that, the archaeology tells a different story.”

20. By contrast/in comparison

Usage: Use “by contrast” or “in comparison” when you’re comparing and contrasting pieces of evidence. Example: “Scholar A’s opinion, then, is based on insufficient evidence. By contrast, Scholar B’s opinion seems more plausible.”

21. Then again

Usage: Use this to cast doubt on an assertion. Example: “Writer A asserts that this was the reason for what happened. Then again, it’s possible that he was being paid to say this.”

22. That said

Usage: This is used in the same way as “then again”. Example: “The evidence ostensibly appears to point to this conclusion. That said, much of the evidence is unreliable at best.”

Usage: Use this when you want to introduce a contrasting idea. Example: “Much of scholarship has focused on this evidence. Yet not everyone agrees that this is the most important aspect of the situation.”

Adding a proviso or acknowledging reservations

Sometimes, you may need to acknowledge a shortfalling in a piece of evidence, or add a proviso. Here are some ways of doing so.

24. Despite this

Usage: Use “despite this” or “in spite of this” when you want to outline a point that stands regardless of a shortfalling in the evidence. Example: “The sample size was small, but the results were important despite this.”

25. With this in mind

Usage: Use this when you want your reader to consider a point in the knowledge of something else. Example: “We’ve seen that the methods used in the 19th century study did not always live up to the rigorous standards expected in scientific research today, which makes it difficult to draw definite conclusions. With this in mind, let’s look at a more recent study to see how the results compare.”

26. Provided that

Usage: This means “on condition that”. You can also say “providing that” or just “providing” to mean the same thing. Example: “We may use this as evidence to support our argument, provided that we bear in mind the limitations of the methods used to obtain it.”

27. In view of/in light of

Usage: These phrases are used when something has shed light on something else. Example: “In light of the evidence from the 2013 study, we have a better understanding of…”

28. Nonetheless

Usage: This is similar to “despite this”. Example: “The study had its limitations, but it was nonetheless groundbreaking for its day.”

29. Nevertheless

Usage: This is the same as “nonetheless”. Example: “The study was flawed, but it was important nevertheless.”

30. Notwithstanding

Usage: This is another way of saying “nonetheless”. Example: “Notwithstanding the limitations of the methodology used, it was an important study in the development of how we view the workings of the human mind.”

Giving examples

Good essays always back up points with examples, but it’s going to get boring if you use the expression “for example” every time. Here are a couple of other ways of saying the same thing.

31. For instance

Example: “Some birds migrate to avoid harsher winter climates. Swallows, for instance, leave the UK in early winter and fly south…”

32. To give an illustration

Example: “To give an illustration of what I mean, let’s look at the case of…”

Signifying importance

When you want to demonstrate that a point is particularly important, there are several ways of highlighting it as such.

33. Significantly

Usage: Used to introduce a point that is loaded with meaning that might not be immediately apparent. Example: “Significantly, Tacitus omits to tell us the kind of gossip prevalent in Suetonius’ accounts of the same period.”

34. Notably

Usage: This can be used to mean “significantly” (as above), and it can also be used interchangeably with “in particular” (the example below demonstrates the first of these ways of using it). Example: “Actual figures are notably absent from Scholar A’s analysis.”

35. Importantly

Usage: Use “importantly” interchangeably with “significantly”. Example: “Importantly, Scholar A was being employed by X when he wrote this work, and was presumably therefore under pressure to portray the situation more favourably than he perhaps might otherwise have done.”

Summarising

You’ve almost made it to the end of the essay, but your work isn’t over yet. You need to end by wrapping up everything you’ve talked about, showing that you’ve considered the arguments on both sides and reached the most likely conclusion. Here are some words and phrases to help you.

36. In conclusion

Usage: Typically used to introduce the concluding paragraph or sentence of an essay, summarising what you’ve discussed in a broad overview. Example: “In conclusion, the evidence points almost exclusively to Argument A.”

37. Above all

Usage: Used to signify what you believe to be the most significant point, and the main takeaway from the essay. Example: “Above all, it seems pertinent to remember that…”

38. Persuasive

Usage: This is a useful word to use when summarising which argument you find most convincing. Example: “Scholar A’s point – that Constanze Mozart was motivated by financial gain – seems to me to be the most persuasive argument for her actions following Mozart’s death.”

39. Compelling

Usage: Use in the same way as “persuasive” above. Example: “The most compelling argument is presented by Scholar A.”

40. All things considered

Usage: This means “taking everything into account”. Example: “All things considered, it seems reasonable to assume that…”

How many of these words and phrases will you get into your next essay? And are any of your favourite essay terms missing from our list? Let us know in the comments below, or get in touch here to find out more about courses that can help you with your essays.

At Oxford Royale Academy, we offer a number of  summer school courses for young people who are keen to improve their essay writing skills. Click here to apply for one of our courses today, including law , business , medicine  and engineering .

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How to make an Essay Longer – 21 Easy Tips!

Chris Drew (PhD)

Dr. Chris Drew is the founder of the Helpful Professor. He holds a PhD in education and has published over 20 articles in scholarly journals. He is the former editor of the Journal of Learning Development in Higher Education. [Image Descriptor: Photo of Chris]

Learn about our Editorial Process

Just about all the advice on the first page of google about how to make a paper longer sucks. No, really. The tricks they suggest suck so bad I can’t believe how bad it sucks.

Most advice on how to make your essay longer tells you to do gimmicky things that will lose you marks.

How do I know? Because I read it. And I (yes, I’m a professor) would instantly see through all those things.

Let me tell you: if you’re wasting time turning “15” into “fifteen” to get an extra 6 characters into your essay , increasing font size, or sticking fluffy adjectives into sentences to make your essay longer and increase word count, you’re stuffing up. You’re flushing marks down the drain.

So, here’s what you SHOULD do to make your essay longer.

How to Make an Essay Longer

1. make sure you included everything.

I can’t tell you how many of my students submit assignments and forget to include important points! Go back to your writing prompt . That’s the thing that you’re going to be graded on.

Go and check out exactly what your teacher asked you to write about. Did you write about every point they suggested?

Related Article: 17+ Great Ideas For An Essay About Yourself

2. Make Every Paragraph at least 4 Sentences

Scan over each paragraph. Do you have any paragraphs that are less than 4 sentences long? This is your low-hanging fruit for making your paper longer. You need to make these paragraphs longer and your page count will naturally increase.

The best paragraphs should be 4 – 7 sentences long .

If you’ve got a 1, 2 or 3 sentence paragraph, make sure you go back through it. What new points can you include to make your paragraph better? Maybe you can:

• Add a sentence at the start of the paragraph explaining what the paragraph is about;
• Add a sentence giving a real-life example of the points you’re trying to make
• Add a sentence giving an explanation of your points.

Or, you can try adding points explaining:

• Why the thing is true;
• Where the thing happened;
• How the thing happened;
• When the thing happened.

3. Define your Terms

Have you written a paragraph defining your key terms? If you’re writing an essay on modernism, write a paragraph defining modernism. If your essay is about education , write a paragraph giving a brief history of education. This will make your paper better – and longer!

You should have a paragraph or two right after your introduction defining and explaining what your topic is!

Now, if you are going to provide a definition for a term in college or university level writing , you need to read this article . In it, I show you how to write a full paragraph that defines a term in the right way using a research paper, not a dictionary!.

4. Get new Ideas from your Class Handouts

Below are the class handouts that you should go back through to add new ideas. They’re your most important sources. Go through all these sources and try to take down and more key points you can add:

• Handouts or worksheets in class?
• Readings or articles that they asked you to read?
• Lecture slides?

6. Get new Ideas from Friends

You will have many classmates working on the same essay as you. What ideas have your friends come up with? See if you can find out. You want it to seem like you’re working to help each other out. You don’t want to be a sponge, taking from them and not giving back. Help each other out so you both get better marks. I recommend being strategic about this:

• Offer to look over each others’ work and give suggestions;
• Trade key points in bullet point format;
• Brainstorm together to create a master list of key ideas.

8. Get new Ideas from Blogs

There are websites online about just about every topic that you can possibly imagine. That includes the topic you’re writing your essay on!

Let me ask you a question: Why would you waste your time trying to add padding to old sentences to increase your word count when you can write new ones that will win more marks?

It’s really so simple – google your essay topic or question and see what comes up. What have other people said on the topic? What ideas can you grab from others and use for yourself? You can also get new ideas from Google Scholar, which can provide you with a free to access research paper that will give you ideas as well. 

12. Use the Keep Writing Website

Keep Writing is a website where you can write your essay. But, it won’t let you delete anything. So you have to just keep on typing. This means you can just write ideas that roll off the top of your head. I gave this website a go to write this article you’re reading right now and it really did help me just write in a way that flowed nicely and added to my page count quickly. I must admit, after using the website, I copied the text and did some edits. But by that point I had a ton of words in there – more than enough – and I could shorten the essay by deleting the words that weren’t so good. I ended up having the opposite problem – too many words!

13. Include one new Example in Each Paragraph

Another thing you can do is go through each and every paragraph and add one more example and some supporting evidence. Even if you’ve included one example in each paragraph, that’s okay. You can still add more examples. In fact, teachers love to see examples and supporting evidence.

Good examples are what separates good and bad students.

Teachers love to see examples because you can only give examples if you understand the topic. So, when we see examples we go “Yes! You Got It! You understand it!”

16. Don’t add Pointless Words!

‘Padding’ is what we call it when you stick extra words in a sentence just to increase your word count. I’ve taken a sentence from earlier in this post and I’m going to show you the sentence as it is, then show it to you with padding.

Here’s the original:

“You’re going to need some new points to add to your essay. You should not try to make your sentences you’ve already written longer. You shouldn’t be trying to add in fluffy new words or saying things in a longer way.”

Here’s the padding:

“You’re going to need some new points to actually add to your essay , which actually is quite significant . You should not actually try to generally make your sentences you’ve already written longer , generally contrary to popular belief . You shouldn’t be trying to generally add in fluffy new words or saying things in a longer way , which is fairly significant. ”

Your teacher is going to read this and think “This student is a terrible writer.” And you’ll lose a ton of marks.

17. Don’t Change the Formatting

Increasing the line spacing, font size or character spacing will just make your paper worse. You should have ONE space between each word. Your line spacing should either be 2.0 or 1.5 spacing. That’s it. Those are your options. Stick to normal margins in Microsoft Word You should use font size 12. If you artificially change any of this, your teacher will see through it and grade you down .

Final Thoughts

Making an essay longer needs to be done in a way that will get you marks. I can’t believe that there are websites ranking high on google that recommend tricks like “make the space between lines bigger” and “increase your margins”.

If a student did that in my class, I’d fail them instantly. There are smarter and better ways to do it – whether you’re writing a grade 7 essay or dissertation chapter! Do it the right way and you’ll grow your marks and be on the way to success.

• Chris Drew (PhD) https://helpfulprofessor.com/author/chris-drew-phd/ Free Social Skills Worksheets
• Chris Drew (PhD) https://helpfulprofessor.com/author/chris-drew-phd/ 10 Reasons you’re Perpetually Single
• Chris Drew (PhD) https://helpfulprofessor.com/author/chris-drew-phd/ 20 Montessori Toddler Bedrooms (Design Inspiration)
• Chris Drew (PhD) https://helpfulprofessor.com/author/chris-drew-phd/ 21 Montessori Homeschool Setups

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• Free Essay Examples

30+ Tips and Tricks to Make Your Essays Longer

How to make an essay longer (30+ useful tips and tricks).

Writing an essay with a minimum word count can be a challenging task, particularly when you've exhausted all your ideas and arguments. However, fear not!

In this article, we will explore over 30 useful tips and tricks to help you make your essay longer while maintaining quality and coherence. So, let's dive right in:

1. Expand your Introduction

Begin by expanding upon the background information and context provided in your introduction. Elaborate on key points and include additional examples to strengthen your thesis statement.

2. Develop more Arguments

Take the opportunity to introduce new arguments, viewpoints, or counterarguments in each paragraph. This will help you support your thesis further, add depth to your analysis, and ultimately lengthen your essay.

3. Add Additional Evidence

Include extra evidence, quotes, statistics, or facts to support your claims. This will not only bolster your arguments but also help you add length to your essay.

4. Provide Detailed Explanations

Ensure that you offer thorough explanations for each point you make. Expanding on your ideas will add substance to your essay and contribute to its overall length.

5. Strengthen Transitions

Improve the flow and coherence of your essay by using appropriate transitional words and phrases. This will help link your paragraphs together and make your essay appear longer.

6. Integrate Relevant Examples

Incorporate real-life examples, anecdotes, or case studies to illustrate your arguments. This technique not only adds depth to your essay but also increases its length.

7. Use Illustrative Comparisons

Draw comparisons between various concepts, events, or literary works to enrich your essay. Such comparisons will expand upon your arguments and add more substance to your writing.

8. Explore Different Perspectives

Discuss different perspectives regarding your topic and elaborate on counterarguments. This will demonstrate your ability to consider diverse viewpoints and make your essay more comprehensive.

9. Analyze in Depth

Delve deeper into the analysis of your evidence and arguments. By providing comprehensive analysis, you not only strengthen your essay but also increase its word count.

10. Include Subheadings

If appropriate, use subheadings to organize your essay. This not only enhances readability but also adds length and structure to your work.

11. Emphasize Key Points

Highlight important points by using bold or italics. This technique draws attention to key concepts while also increasing the overall length of your essay.

12. Extend Your Conclusion

Elaborate on your main ideas in the conclusion and summarize your arguments. Additionally, consider expanding upon the implications or broader significance of your topic.

13. Describe Relevant Background Information

Provide detailed descriptions of relevant historical, social, or cultural contexts. This will add depth and substance to your essay, making it longer and more informative.

14. Integrate Quotations

Incorporate well-chosen quotations from reputable sources to support your arguments. Remember to provide proper citations and expand upon the significance of each quote.

15. Use Academic Jargon Appropriately

Employ academic jargon or specialized terminology when appropriate. However, be cautious not to overuse it, as this may make your essay verbose and difficult to comprehend.

16. Expand Your Vocabulary

Diversify your word choice by utilizing synonyms and varied sentence structures. This will not only add sophistication to your writing but also increase the length of your essay.

17. Incorporate Relevant Definitions

Explain key terms or concepts relevant to your topic in greater detail. This will not only enhance the reader's understanding but also assist you in reaching your desired word count.

18. Address Counterarguments

Devote some paragraphs to acknowledging and refuting counterarguments effectively. By doing so, you strengthen your own arguments and provide a comprehensive analysis of the topic.

19. Present Real-Life Applications

Discuss real-life applications of your topic or examples of how it impacts society. This will demonstrate a broader understanding and, consequently, augment your essay's length.

20. Adopt a Comparative Approach

Draw comparisons between different theories, studies, or authors on the same topic. This analytical approach expands upon your essay and showcases a deeper level of understanding.

21. Utilize Relevant Analogies

Incorporate analogies that help clarify complex ideas or enhance your arguments. Analogies not only add depth but also contribute to increasing the length of your essay.

22. Address Potential Exceptions

Acknowledge exceptions or limitations to your arguments, providing an opportunity for further discussion. Analyzing these exceptions helps expand your essay and indicates your objectivity.

23. Refine Your Thesis

Review your thesis statement and ensure it is precise and concise. Revise or clarify your thesis to make it more comprehensive, thus increasing the length of your essay.

24. Elaborate on Methodology

If your essay includes research or experiments, provide detailed information about the methodology employed. Expanding on this section will lengthen your essay and enhance its academic rigor.

25. Reflect on the Implications

Consider the wider implications of your arguments or findings. Reflecting on the consequences broadens your essay's scope and adds valuable content.

26. Incorporate Relevant Case Studies

If suitable, include in-depth case studies to illustrate your points. Analyzing case studies provides a nuanced perspective and increases the length of your essay.

27. Include an Appendix

If applicable, add an appendix to your essay. This section can contain additional information, charts, graphs, or data, thus increasing the overall length.

28. Request Peer Feedback

Seek constructive feedback from classmates or peers, asking them to identify areas that could be further expanded or clarified. Their feedback can help you identify opportunities to lengthen your essay.

29. Review and Revise

Carefully review your essay, ensuring it is well-structured and coherent. Revise your writing, clarifying ideas and expanding on key points to achieve the desired length.

30. Avoid Redundancy

While the goal is to lengthen your essay, avoid excessively repeating the same information or arguments. Redundancy diminishes the quality of your work, so instead focus on elaboration and depth.

31. Proofread Diligently

Finally, proofread your essay meticulously. Correct any grammatical or spelling errors, refine your sentences, and ensure that your writing is clear and concise.

By implementing these 31 tips and tricks, you can successfully make your essay longer while maintaining quality and coherence. Remember, the primary goal is not to artificially inflate word count, but to provide a comprehensive and well-supported analysis of your topic.

Happy writing!

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How to Make an Essay Longer Without It Feeling Forced

Ever struggled to meet the word count requirement for your essay? You're not alone. Whether it's a minimum size or a certain number of pages, it can feel like a daunting task to stretch your writing without watering it down. But fear not! This article is here to help. We'll explore some practical tips and tricks to make your essay longer without sacrificing quality. From expanding on your main points to incorporating more evidence, we've got you covered. Say goodbye to staring at a blank screen and hello to meeting your paper length with confidence!

How to Make Your Essay Longer: Practical Tips

Students may aim to make their essays longer to fulfill the word count criteria their teachers or professors set. Meeting these requirements is crucial as it can affect their grades or evaluation. Moreover, longer papers offer more room for in-depth exploration of topics, allowing students to showcase their understanding comprehensively. By expanding their papers, students can provide more evidence and examples to strengthen their arguments, making their points more persuasive. Additionally, longer papers may be seen as a sign of dedication and effort, potentially earning students favorable recognition from their instructors.

Increase Font Size and Spacing

Adjusting the font size and spacing of your text can subtly but effectively increase the overall length of your paper. By slightly enlarging the font size and expanding spacing between lines and paragraphs, you can offer extra bulk to your document without significantly altering its content. Please consult our essay outline guide for more ideas on how to expand your paper's structure.

Replace Contractions with Full Words

Contractions, such as "can't" instead of "cannot" or "it's" instead of "it is," often take up less space. By replacing these contractions with their full-word equivalents, you can make your essay longer by adding additional characters.

Add Transitional Phrases

Transitional phrases help connect different parts of your essay, guiding the reader through your arguments and making your writing flow more smoothly. Adding more of these phrases between paragraphs or sections can improve your paper's coherence, and including extra words can increase its word count.

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Use Synonyms for Shorter Words

Look for opportunities to replace shorter words with longer synonyms without changing the meaning of your sentences. For example, "big" could become "substantial," or "important" could be replaced with "significant." This simple technique can help add size to your paper without sacrificing clarity.

Include Personal Anecdotes

Incorporating personal anecdotes or experiences related to your topic can make your essay more engaging and provide additional content to expand upon. You can augment the depth of your writing by sharing relevant stories or reflections and meaningfully increasing its word count.

Reference Pop Culture or Current Events

Bringing references to popular culture or recent events can enrich your essay and demonstrate your awareness of contemporary issues. By integrating relevant examples or discussions from the media, you can expand your analysis and provide fresh insights, thus extending the volume of your paper.

Provide Detailed Explanations

Take the time to thoroughly explain your ideas and arguments, providing additional context or background information where necessary. By offering detailed explanations, you enhance the clarity of your writing and tally substance and depth, ultimately increasing the word count of your paper.

Use Footnotes or Endnotes

If there are additional points or information that you want to include but don't necessarily fit within the main body of your essay, consider using footnotes or endnotes. These can be used to provide supplementary details, citations, or explanations without disrupting the flow of your primary argument, effectively expanding the content of your paper.

Address Counterarguments

Acknowledging and addressing potential counterarguments demonstrates a thorough understanding of your topic and strengthens your own arguments. By engaging with opposing viewpoints and presenting rebuttals, you not only bolster the persuasiveness of your essay but also bring complexity and word count to your analysis.

Incorporate Quotes from Primary Sources

Introducing quotes from primary sources, such as books, articles, or interviews, can incorporate credibility and depth to your arguments. By directly citing authoritative sources, you provide additional evidence to support your claims and expand the scope of your discussion, increasing your essay's extent.

Include Visuals like Graphs or Charts

Visual aids, such as graphs, charts, or tables, can be used to illustrate data or complex information clearly and concisely. Incorporating visuals enhances the visual appeal of your essay and provides supplementary content to expand upon, contributing to its overall word count.

Still Can’t Fit Into the Word Count?

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Explore Alternative Interpretations

Consider exploring alternative interpretations or perspectives related to your topic. Presenting different viewpoints or analyzing your subject from various angles adds richness and complexity to your essay, ultimately increasing its size and depth of analysis. While trying to manipulate the word count of your paper using these techniques, keep in mind the punctuation marks .

Offer Comparisons or Contrasts

Drawing comparisons or contrasts between different ideas, theories, or examples can enrich your essay and provide additional content to discuss. By highlighting similarities and differences, you add nuance to your arguments and expand the scope of your analysis, thereby increasing the volume of your composition.

Simplify Complex Concepts

Break down complex ideas or concepts into simpler terms that are easier to understand. By providing clear explanations and examples, you not only improve the accessibility of your writing but also encompass substance and depth, ultimately increasing the word count of your document.

Define Technical Terms

If your essay includes specialized terminology or jargon, take the time to define these terms for your readers. By providing clear definitions and explanations, you ensure that your audience understands the concepts you're discussing and integrate additional content to your manuscript, thus increasing its range.

Discuss Opposing Viewpoints

Engaging with opposing viewpoints and discussing their merits can enrich your essay and demonstrate your critical thinking skills. By acknowledging alternative perspectives and presenting counterarguments, you enclose complexity and depth to your analysis, ultimately increasing the reach of your writing.

Extend Implications of Findings

Consider the broader implications of your arguments or findings and explore their significance in greater detail. By discussing the potential consequences or applications of your research, you subsume depth and complexity to your analysis, ultimately increasing the magnitude of your essay.

Expand Examples and Evidence

Provide additional examples, evidence, or case studies to support your arguments and illustrate your points. By offering more detailed and varied examples, you strengthen your claims and make your essay longer, ultimately increasing its word count and persuasiveness. If you still can’t fit into the word limit and none of these tips help, simply say, ‘ write my essay for me ,’ and our writers will produce a cogent paper of the required length.

11 Best Ways to Make an Essay Longer

• Written by Firdaus
• Updated on: June 7, 2024
• Content Marketing

In this article we will explore the 11 best ways to make an essay longer. These tips will help you expand your ideas, provide more evidence, and ensure that your essay meets the required word count. Whether you’re a student looking to improve your writing skills or just trying to complete an assignment, these strategies will be useful tools in your writing toolbox.

By following these practical tips, you can enhance your essay and ensure it fully covers your topic. Let’s dive in and discover how you can make your essay longer, more detailed, and even more interesting to read.

Quick Summary Powered by Addlly AI

1: Add Examples

One of the most effective ways to expand any piece of essay is by including vivid examples that illustrate your key points.

When inserting examples into your essay, choose stories, anecdotes, or case studies that are directly relevant to your core thesis. Provide ample contextualizing details so readers feel transported to the example scenario. You can also lengthen papers by selecting longer, more elaborate examples rather than brief, surface-level ones. For more insights on different types of content writing, check out this comprehensive guide on types of content writing .

Here is an example:

Weak example: “The adoption of AI by companies varies significantly across different sectors and regions, with some industries leading the way in AI adoption.”

Improved example: “According to the McKinsey Global Survey, 55% of organizations have adopted AI, with a steady share of organizations using AI in more than one business function. The most common functions for AI adoption include product and service development and service operations. However, the survey also indicates that AI adoption remains limited in scope, with less than a third of organizations adopting AI across more than one business function”.

As you can see, the improved example adds more words while backing the key point with hard statistics. Over the course of an entire essay, dozens of small illustrative examples can add up quickly.

2: Address Counter Arguments

In academic writing, it’s important to show different sides of complex issues, including counterarguments, to give a balanced view. This makes the discussion richer and shows the author’s honesty by recognizing and thinking critically about other points of view.

To make your argument stronger and more believable, it’s important to consider counterarguments carefully instead of ignoring them. This means giving clear, evidence-based reasons why these opposing views aren’t as strong. For more tips on building strong arguments, check out this article on whether blogging is still worth it .

For a Singapore-related example, consider the debate on the impact of foreign investment in the local economy. A counterargument might argue that foreign investment has led to job losses due to automation. To address this, you could reference research showing that while some jobs may be lost, new sectors are created, and the overall economic growth benefits the nation.

Here’s how to do it:

“While some argue that foreign investment in Singapore has led to job losses due to automation, it is essential to consider the broader economic impact. Research indicates that while certain jobs may be lost, new sectors are emerging, and the overall economic growth benefits the nation. For instance, the technology sector, which has seen significant foreign investment, has not only created new job opportunities but also contributed to Singapore’s position as a global hub for innovation. This perspective underscores the importance of viewing foreign investment as a catalyst for economic diversification and growth, rather than a solely negative factor.”

3: Define Key Terms

To make your essay longer and more impactful, try defining key terms that might be new to some readers. This not only makes your essay clearer but also adds important explanations that make your content more engaging for a wider audience.

Before diving into your main argument, take a paragraph or two to explain definitions and give more examples of important vocabulary. For instance, check out this article on the pros and cons of AI-generated content to see how terms and examples can be clearly presented.

For example, a paper about standardized tests could start:

“Standardized tests represent formal assessments administered under consistent, predefined conditions. All participants complete identical measures with time limits and closed-ended response formats. Results allow direct performance comparisons across all students on core skills and knowledge areas. While standardized simply means uniformed administration rules, these tests provoke no shortage of controversy regarding effectiveness and fairness.”

At 65 words, this fleshed-out opener helps ensure other writers and readers are on the same page regarding key terminology.

4: Improve Transitions

Beyond the introduction and conclusion, transitions glue an essay’s inner workings together. They explain the logical links between each central point, revealing the overall structure of persuasive essay.

Unfortunately, time-crunched writers often rely on brief, repetitive transitions like “additionally” and “on the other hand.” Lengthier variants can expand word count while improving flow:

Section 1: “Participating in team sports builds social skills.” Section 2: “Additionally/Moreover, group athletics keep teens physically fit.”

Section 1: “Participating in team sports builds social skills.” Section 2: “Beyond social benefits, high school athletics promote lifespan health through exercise and fitness habits.”

With an extra 16 words, the second example eases readers into the next part using a transitional phrase rather than a rote conjunction.

5: Adding Quotations

Most other essay writing assignments permit using quoted material from outside texts. The trick is selecting passages that reinforce key points with plenty of explanatory detail.

For example, rather than paper longer than a short remark about the merits of AI tools, opt for an extended first-hand testimonial:

“As someone who has utilized AI tools extensively, I can attest to their merits and limitations from a first-person perspective. AI tools have significantly enhanced my productivity and efficiency in content creation, offering a range of capabilities that save time and reduce costs. They are particularly useful for generating blog topics, assisting with SEO, and creating location-based messaging, among other tasks. The ability to produce content quickly, often within minutes, is a game-changer for my workflow…”

As you can see, this illustrative quote bolsters the essay’s thesis while expanding length. Just be sure borrowed content doesn’t overwhelm original analysis. As a rule of thumb, aim for an 80/20 split between the writer’s own words vs quoted text.

6: Add Research-Backed Statistics

Well-placed numbers and statistics make arguments more convincing. Surveys show papers containing quantitative data receive higher marks compared to those without.

The trick is locating digestible stats and facts so readers don’t get overwhelmed. Aim for 1-3 clearly explained figures per point rather than more than one idea or cramming in mismatched data. Relevant sources include:

• Peer-reviewed journals
• Government databases
• Non-profit research publications
• University archives
• Reputable news sites

For example, here is a statistic to boost an essay:

“Singapore’s GDP is a key indicator of the country’s economic performance and plays a significant role in its overall development and growth. According to the Department of Statistics Singapore, the city-state’s GDP at current market prices stood at S$558.1 billion in 2022 (Department of Statistics Singapore, 2023). This figure represents a 4.4% increase from the previous year, showcasing the resilience and adaptability of Singapore’s economy amid global economic challenges.”

With supporting numbers from trusted institutions, the case becomes more compelling. Used judiciously, quantifiable data can lengthen essays without sounding forced.

7: Define Abbreviations

It might sound counterintuitive, but spelling out abbreviations and acronyms aids readability while adding substantive words at the same time. First reference should introduce the full term before shortening for convenience:

“The United States Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) sets protocols for containment of viruses and other public health threats…”

The initial long-form mention eats up an empty sentence structure and extra three words while preventing confusion. Brand names, program titles, and organization names all represent prime candidates for this technique. However, don’t overdo it – define more obscure references then default to abbreviations.

8: Add Anecdotes

An anecdote refers to a short account of an interesting event. These mini-stories put a personal face on abstract discussions. Using anecdotes and personal stories can help increase engagement and make well written essay or content more relatable and memorable for readers.

When sharing an anecdote, use vivid sensory details to transport readers into the moment as an eyewitness. For example, an essay about study abroad experiences could include this snapshot:

“My first night in Paris, I stood awe-struck beneath the blazing Eiffel Tower, overcome by a medley of strange smells and rapid French chatter swirling around me. Despite the fierce July heat, little kids laughed while chasing bubbles blown by street vendors along the cool marble steps of the Trocadero…”

At 44 words, this pocket account grabs attention while expanding length. Just take care that personal stories still link clearly to the essay’s main themes.

9: Incorporate Visual Aids

Incorporating visual elements such as charts, graphs, or tables into academic papers not only enhances the clarity of complex data but also adds supplemental length, making the content more engaging and easier to digest.

“As Figure 1 indicates, while just 34% of 8th graders showed proficiency in reading in 1996, over a decade on 60% reached benchmarks in 2022 after implementing intensive literacy programs.”

At just 31 words, referring to an accompanying graph expands the essay’s word count while giving evidence a user-friendly assist.

When adding charts or figures, be sure to:

• Number visual aids sequentially (Figure 1, Figure 2 etc)
• Introduce each fully – don’t just throw them in mid-paper
• Explain key takeaways from the data shown
• Link insights back to main essay themes

10: Define Theoretical Concepts

Lengthy papers analyzing technical academic theories rarely start with nitty-gritty details. Instead, they devote space fleshing out high-level concepts so readers can absorb specifics in proper context.

For example:

“Maslow’s hierarchy of needs represents a seminal psychological theory of human motivation. First detailed in a 1943 paper called ‘A Theory of Human Motivation,’ this framework arranges all drives into a pyramid with the most fundamental at the base. These foundational motives like food, water, and sleep must be minimally satisfied before higher aspirations like self-esteem or creative fulfillment arise. Over decades, Maslow’s insights remain seminal for fields like business, education, and counseling.”

At 71 words, establishing background around scholarly concepts bulks up papers without risking fluff or filler.

11: Use Addlly AI for Essay Writing

While the techniques above provide tried-and-true manual methods for padding word counts, Addlly AI’s advanced AI tools streamline the process further. Our 1-Click Blog Writer and SEO Blog Co-Pilot employ cutting-edge natural language generation models to craft compelling academic content at scale.

Simply input a topic, keyword, URLs, or an outline and watch SEO Blog Copilot produce a comprehensive, coherent first draft ripe for expansion. Its sophisticated algorithm interweaves logical flow, citations, stats, anecdotes and examples into a custom essay meeting length requirements.

The benefits don’t stop there. Addlly structures posts for optimal SEO rankings, cites recent facts and statistics, suggests related keywords – everything students need for elevated grades and increased organic site traffic. By handling the heavy lifting of research and writing, Addlly allows focusing creative energy on polishing posts to perfection.

Give your essay an instant boost by visiting Addlly.ai to unlock AI-augmentation taking academic work to the next level. The future of effortless, ethical paper expansion is here.

Conclusion on How to Make an Essay Longer

In concluding, making an essay longer is more than just meeting the required word count; it’s about enriching your essay with valuable content and clear argumentation. Techniques such as manipulating spacing with character spacing, single or double spacing, adjusting font size to a slightly larger but reasonable option like Bookman Old Style or New Roman, and using more transitional phrases can add length without compromising readability. However, the essence of essay writing lies in the ability to articulate more ideas, provide multiple examples, and furnish thorough supporting evidence that makes the essay’s argument more persuasive and its conclusions more robust.

Remember, a well-written essay not only meets the minimum length but also fully develops its main points, making effective use of paragraph structure, sentence structure, and relevant quotes from other writers. Ultimately, the goal is to enhance the essay’s clarity and impact, making each word count towards presenting a cohesive and compelling argument.

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As a Content Writer at Addlly.ai with a decade of experience in the media and content creation industry, my journey spans roles as a freelance writer, content manager, and editor. My expertise lies in crafting compelling content that spans various topics including business, finance, technology, lifestyle, and entertainment. Equipped with skills in SEO, analytics, keyword research, and social media, I excel at optimizing and amplifying content across platforms.

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Have you ever struggled to meet the minimum word count for your essay? You're not alone. This often results in a paper that feels padded and unclear. 

But don't worry! In this blog, we'll explore simple strategies to extend your essays effectively, adding both length and quality. 

Let's get started.

• 1. Tip 1: Review Your Outline
• 2. Tip 2: Expand on Your Arguments
• 3. Tip 3: Incorporate Relevant Quotes
• 4. Tip 4: Use Descriptive Language
• 5. Tip 5: Explore Counterarguments in Detail
• 6. Tip 6: Expand Your Thesis
• 7. Tip 7: Elaborate on Examples
• 8. Tip 8: Analyze Data and Statistics
• 9. Tip 9: Vivid Descriptions
• 10. Tip 10: Analogies and Metaphors
• 11. Tip 11: Define Key Terms
• 12. Tip 12: Use Transitions Effectively
• 13. Tip 13: Add Subheadings
• 14. Tip 14: Revise and Edit
• 15. Tip 15: Peer Review and Feedback

Tip 1: Review Your Outline

Reviewing your essay outline is a powerful way to lengthen your essay while maintaining quality. 

Start by revisiting your main points and looking for additional sub points or arguments to support your thesis. If you’ve outlined a shorter essay, consider expanding it into a five-paragraph essay . 

Add more supporting details, such as evidence, quotations, or statistics, and provide more context and background information. Expand each section by breaking down complex ideas and ensuring balanced coverage across all points.  

Be open to integrating new ideas from your research or writing process to add fresh perspectives.

Tip 2: Expand on Your Arguments

When you want to increase the length of your essay, start by revisiting your arguments. 

Look for opportunities to provide more comprehensive explanations. Explain the "how" and "why" behind your points. 

Use examples, analogies, and anecdotes to illustrate your arguments in greater detail.

For instance, if you're writing about the benefits of exercise, don't just state that exercise improves mental health. Explain how physical activity releases endorphins, which are chemicals in the brain that act as natural painkillers and mood elevators. 

Describe why this process helps reduce stress and anxiety. You could add an anecdote about someone who started exercising regularly and noticed a significant improvement in their mood and overall well-being. 

This not only increases the word count but also makes your argument more convincing and relatable.

Tip 3: Incorporate Relevant Quotes

Adding relevant quotations from experts, scholars, or relevant sources in essay writing can not only support your arguments but also lengthen your essay. 

Ensure that these quotes are directly related to your essay topic and provide valuable insights. 

Take the time to introduce, analyze, and discuss each quote, showing its relevance to your thesis.

Tip 4: Use Descriptive Language

Words have the power to transform and help your essay flow smoothly. Instead of merely stating facts or ideas, employ descriptive language to create a more vivid picture for your readers. 

Appeal to their senses by describing the sights, sounds, smells, tastes, and textures associated with your subject. 

This not only makes your essay longer but also engages your audience on a deeper level.

Tip 5: Explore Counterarguments in Detail

To ensure that you fully incorporate counter arguments into your essay, follow these steps:

• Present Alternative Viewpoints: Identify and present alternative viewpoints or perspectives related to your thesis. This step adds complexity to your discussion.
• Explain Their Validity: Describe the counterarguments with fairness and objectivity. Explain why some readers or experts may find these viewpoints valid or convincing. This demonstrates that you have considered multiple angles.
• Highlight Weaknesses: Delve into the weaknesses or limitations of these counterarguments. Point out where they may fall short in terms of supporting evidence, logic, or applicability.
• Provide Rebuttals: Offer well-reasoned rebuttals to counterarguments. Explain why, despite their validity in some aspects, they do not diminish the strength of your main argument.
• Maintain a Respectful Tone: Ensure your discussion of counterarguments is respectful and objective. Avoid dismissive language or ad hominem attacks. Instead, focus on the merits and drawbacks of each perspective.

Tip 6: Expand Your Thesis

Revisit your thesis statement and consider how you can broaden it without losing focus. Expanding your thesis can open up new dimensions within your essay. 

Explore different angles, implications, or applications of your central argument to add depth and length to your writing.

For example, if your original thesis is "Social media negatively affects teenagers' self-esteem," you can expand it to "Social media not only negatively affects teenagers' self-esteem but also contributes to increased anxiety, depression, and distorted body image perceptions." 

This expanded thesis allows you to discuss the impact on self-esteem. You can explain how social media comparison leads to anxiety and depression. Additionally, you can explore how edited images distort teenagers' body image perceptions.

Tip 7: Elaborate on Examples

If you've used examples to support your arguments, take the opportunity to explore each one in detail.

Start by explaining the context of each example. Give background information that helps the reader understand why the example is relevant. 

Then, discuss the significance of the example—why is it important and what does it demonstrate about your argument? Finally, clearly relate the example back to your thesis. 

Show how it supports your central point and add any additional insights that strengthen your argument.

Tip 8: Analyze Data and Statistics

If your essay relies on data or statistics, don't simply present the numbers—analyze them thoroughly. 

Explain the methodology used to gather the data, discuss the significance of the data points, and explore their implications for your topic. 

A comprehensive data analysis not only adds length but also strengthens your argument.

Tip 9: Vivid Descriptions

Enhance your essay by incorporating vivid descriptions. Paint a detailed picture in the reader's mind, whether you're describing a scene, character, or concept. Descriptive language can add depth and length to your writing.

Tip 10: Analogies and Metaphors

Analogies and metaphors can be powerful tools for extending your essay. They not only make your writing more engaging but also help convey complex ideas by drawing comparisons.

Tip 11: Define Key Terms

If your essay includes terminology that might be unfamiliar to some readers, take the opportunity to define these key terms. This adds clarity to your essay and expands it with necessary explanations.

Tip 12: Use Transitions Effectively

Effective transitions between body paragraphs and sections can improve the flow of your essay and make it appear longer. 

Utilize transitional phrases and sentences to guide your readers through your arguments. These transitions not only enhance readability but also connect ideas, making your essay feel more cohesive.

Tip 13: Add Subheadings

To give your essay a structured and organized appearance, consider breaking it into sections with subheadings. 

Each subheading can represent a different aspect or dimension of your topic. This not only makes your essay more reader-friendly but also creates the illusion of a longer piece.

Tip 14: Revise and Edit

After implementing these lengthening techniques, take the time to revise and edit your essay carefully. 

Eliminate redundancies, filler words, and any content that doesn't contribute to your overall argument. A well-edited essay not only maintains quality but also ensures that every word serves a purpose, making it longer and more impactful.

Tip 15: Peer Review and Feedback

Seek feedback from peers or instructors. Others may provide suggestions for additional content or areas that need further development, helping you enhance the length and quality of your essay.

In conclusion,

Making your essay longer isn't just about meeting word count requirements; it's about adding depth and quality to your writing. By using the strategies discussed here, you can extend your essays and improve their substance and impact. 

If you're feeling overwhelmed or just want to ensure your essay stands out, consider the option to ' pay somebody to do my essay '. At MyPerfectWords.com , we offer exceptional writing assistance tailored to your professor’s instructions. Our expert essay writers are here to help you craft a standout essay with ease.

So why miss out? Order now!

Frequently Asked Questions

How to make sentences longer for an essay.

To lengthen sentences, use descriptive language, add supporting details, and provide examples or evidence. Combine shorter sentences into complex ones and use transitional words to create a more flowing narrative.

How to make words longer in an essay?

Expanding words can be done by using synonyms, providing definitions, or offering explanations. Additionally, using adjectives, adverbs, and descriptive phrases can make words and sentences more elaborate without sacrificing clarity.

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Nova Allison is a Digital Content Strategist with over eight years of experience. Nova has also worked as a technical and scientific writer. She is majorly involved in developing and reviewing online content plans that engage and resonate with audiences. Nova has a passion for writing that engages and informs her readers.

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