tips for writing first person essays?

Joined: 15 Jul 2008 Posts: 5

What would you say are some tips for writing essays that involve first person experiences? I'm trying to get one published at the moment and would love some tips.

Joined: 29 May 2008 Posts: 23

First you need to consider that this is something you are saying personally. It is like telling a story from your viewpoint. If I remember correctly, these type of essays are usually called opinion essays. For example, "I think that . . ."

Joined: 16 Jul 2008 Posts: 11

Ah yes, opinion essays. The mistake people make with opinion essays is starting every paragraph, or every other paragraph, with "I.." And my response is always "I know! You're the author!"

There are times when it can't be avoided, however. Leaving out the "I..." statement creates an awkwardly structure sentence and risks losing the reader. You'll have to read the essay, out loud, and see if the "I..." is really necessary or if it works just a well, or perhaps better, phrased differently.

I'm trying to think of a good example and am coming up empty. Reading other opinions, like Op-Ed pieces, can be helpful. Get a sense of flow, diction and organization.

Joined: 06 Aug 2008 Posts: 6

Sometimes it helps to find word/word combinations that will make the reader see you as likable in a subtle way. That doesn't mean "all sweet and nicey-nice" - just someone who comes across as interesting and kind of pleasant. Adding one or two statements that show your humanity and/or human-ness can add dimension to your material.