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How To Write An International Relations Essay
Undergraduate BSc IR & Politics Study and Exam Skills building
Date : 13/02/2015
Author Information
Uploaded by : Michele
Uploaded on : 13/02/2015
Subject : Politics
Structuring an International Relations Essay Nearly all papers in international relations involve constructing an argument. The thesis for which you are arguing should be stated at the outset, in the opening paragraphs. An international relations essay is not an opportunity to indiscriminately jot down everything you know about a given topic. Rather, you need to carefully decide which aspects of your knowledge are relevant and which are not. Your introduction should aim capture the reader's attention while avoiding broad 'background' narratives, unsupported generalisations or irrelevant information. The main body of your essay should then be structured in accordance with the logic of the argument presented in order to substantiate your thesis. Rather than simply giving opinions, whether your own or somebody else's, you must provide reasons for your claims, bolstered wherever possible with factual evidence. Relevant data, examples, statistics and other information should be marshalled to bolster each substantive point you make. Each paragraph should cover a single idea. After writing each paragraph, ask yourself how it relates to the essay question and supports your argument. If it doesn't clearly do so, amend it so as to avoid irrelevant diversions. An international relations essay is not an exercise in political partisanship, so be sure to address counter-arguments. Put yourself in the position of a sceptical reader and consider possible objections to your arguments and use of evidence. If these objections can be rebutted, offer a counter-argument; if not, your position will need to be appropriately qualified. The final paragraphs should comprise a strong conclusion, pulling all your points together. Restate your main thesis and succinctly remind the reader of the arguments and evidence you have used to support it. You may also briefly address the wider implications of your position. Introducing new arguments or evidence at this point, however, would only be a sign of poor essay planning.
This resource was uploaded by: Michele
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