In-Depth Study Notes Writing (November Exam 3)
Below are compact, exam-focused, high-yield study notes, strategies, formats,
examples.
1 Essay writing — types and how to tackle them
Common essay types: Argumentative / Discursive / Expository / Descriptive /
Narrative / Reflective. Choose one you can write well.
Essay structure (reliable template)
1. Introduction (1 paragraph)
o Rephrase prompt, state your stance (if required) or indicate approach,
outline main points.
2. Body (3–5 paragraphs)
o Topic sentence, explanation, evidence/examples, mini link back to
question. For balanced essays include counterargument and rebuttal.
3. Conclusion (1 paragraph)
o Summarise key points, restate stance/insight, end with a punchy final
thought.
Paragraph structure (PEEL)
• Point — topic sentence.
• Explain — expand the idea.
• Evidence/Example — real-life instance, fact, anecdote.
• Link — tie back to the question and transition.
Tone & style
• Formal, academic voice for discursive/argumentative.
• Use varied sentence structures and precise vocabulary.
• Avoid slang and contractions unless asked for personal/less formal style.
• Where asked to be reflective/narrative, first person is acceptable.
Common essay pitfalls
• Going off-topic, weak introduction, no clear stance, poor paragraphing,
repetition, and grammatical errors.
, 2 Transactional texts — common types & formats
Transactionals are practical texts: formal/informal letters, emails, reports,
speeches, notices, articles, brochures, diary entries, memos, advertisements,
leaflets, minutes.
Key rules (applies to all)
• Read prompt carefully: note purpose, audience, tone, word limit, and format.
• Use correct register: formal (report, formal letter, article) or informal (diary,
text to friend).
• Include required features: layout items (date, recipient, subject), required
instructions (e.g., include 3 suggestions), and correct sign-off.
Quick reference formats
Formal Letter / Formal Email
• Sender’s address (top right) — Date
• Recipient’s address (left)
• Salutation: Dear Sir / Madam or Dear Mr/Ms Surname
• Subject line (optional)
• Intro: state purpose.
• Body: 2–4 paragraphs, formal language, clear points, include
evidence/suggestions.
• Closing: polite sign-off (Yours faithfully / Yours sincerely), name and
designation.
Informal Letter / Email
• Date (top right)
• Salutation: Dear [Name] or Hi [Name]
• Warm intro, personal tone, contractions ok.
• Closing: Love / Best / Cheers, name.
Report
• Title, To/From, Date, Purpose, Headings
(Background/Findings/Recommendations/Conclusion), formal tone, bullet
points allowed.
Speech
• Salutation (Ladies and gentlemen / Fellow students), purpose statement, clear
signposting (“Firstly…”, “In conclusion…”), rhetorical devices, closing call to
action.
Below are compact, exam-focused, high-yield study notes, strategies, formats,
examples.
1 Essay writing — types and how to tackle them
Common essay types: Argumentative / Discursive / Expository / Descriptive /
Narrative / Reflective. Choose one you can write well.
Essay structure (reliable template)
1. Introduction (1 paragraph)
o Rephrase prompt, state your stance (if required) or indicate approach,
outline main points.
2. Body (3–5 paragraphs)
o Topic sentence, explanation, evidence/examples, mini link back to
question. For balanced essays include counterargument and rebuttal.
3. Conclusion (1 paragraph)
o Summarise key points, restate stance/insight, end with a punchy final
thought.
Paragraph structure (PEEL)
• Point — topic sentence.
• Explain — expand the idea.
• Evidence/Example — real-life instance, fact, anecdote.
• Link — tie back to the question and transition.
Tone & style
• Formal, academic voice for discursive/argumentative.
• Use varied sentence structures and precise vocabulary.
• Avoid slang and contractions unless asked for personal/less formal style.
• Where asked to be reflective/narrative, first person is acceptable.
Common essay pitfalls
• Going off-topic, weak introduction, no clear stance, poor paragraphing,
repetition, and grammatical errors.
, 2 Transactional texts — common types & formats
Transactionals are practical texts: formal/informal letters, emails, reports,
speeches, notices, articles, brochures, diary entries, memos, advertisements,
leaflets, minutes.
Key rules (applies to all)
• Read prompt carefully: note purpose, audience, tone, word limit, and format.
• Use correct register: formal (report, formal letter, article) or informal (diary,
text to friend).
• Include required features: layout items (date, recipient, subject), required
instructions (e.g., include 3 suggestions), and correct sign-off.
Quick reference formats
Formal Letter / Formal Email
• Sender’s address (top right) — Date
• Recipient’s address (left)
• Salutation: Dear Sir / Madam or Dear Mr/Ms Surname
• Subject line (optional)
• Intro: state purpose.
• Body: 2–4 paragraphs, formal language, clear points, include
evidence/suggestions.
• Closing: polite sign-off (Yours faithfully / Yours sincerely), name and
designation.
Informal Letter / Email
• Date (top right)
• Salutation: Dear [Name] or Hi [Name]
• Warm intro, personal tone, contractions ok.
• Closing: Love / Best / Cheers, name.
Report
• Title, To/From, Date, Purpose, Headings
(Background/Findings/Recommendations/Conclusion), formal tone, bullet
points allowed.
Speech
• Salutation (Ladies and gentlemen / Fellow students), purpose statement, clear
signposting (“Firstly…”, “In conclusion…”), rhetorical devices, closing call to
action.
