WRITING is a difficult skill. It is for this reason that continuous writing is the bane of many students.

Unlike directed writing, the students have to start from scratch and deal with content as well as language. They have to think of what to write and how to write. The question on directed writing gives them a context within which to write, so they do not have to worry about their roles as writers or who their audience is. With continuous writing, they have to consider these two factors besides having to explore ideas and watch out for language.

 In continuous writing, candidates are given five topics, from which they select only one. The topics can be categorised as follows: Narrative (e.g. Write a story ending with: I never saw her again after that.) Descriptive (e.g. Describe a visit to a night market.) Factual/expository (e.g. National service should be compulsory for all. Do you agree?) Argumentative (e.g. It is better to study the science subjects than the arts. Do you agree?) One-word essays (e.g. Beauty.)

 Read all the questions given. Some students make the mistake of selecting the first question that they read, or zooming in on a question they think is manageable only to realise, later, that they could have handled another question with more ease Choose a topic you are familiar, or comfortable with, which is within your scope of experience, so you do not have to struggle with content Opt for something that is within your linguistic ability. Do not select a topic just because you think it is challenging. This is not the time for experimentation. As for weak students, it is generally advisable to write a narrative Plan your essay: the outline, points/ideas/thoughts and supporting points (if you are writing an argumentative or factual essay).

 Remember to use a variety of sentence structures (simple, compound and complex). Competent candidates should use more of the latter as your competency will be made obvious by your ability to use these structures accurately. Do not use too many simple sentences as, at SPM level, more is expected of you. Use sentences of varying lengths. A short sentence can be very effective after several long sentences Choose words carefully. You should be able to use words with different nuances. For instance the word walked can be replaced with synonyms such as ambled, strolled, sauntered, staggered, strode

 Write out your essay in neat, legible handwriting. There is nothing more annoying than small or untidy handwriting, or a combination of both, as the reader has to spend valuable time deciphering what you have written Write in paragraphs. You may leave a line between paragraphs as it is easy on the examiners eye Edit and revise language if necessary. Allocate 10 minutes for this and make sure spelling and punctuation are accurate

Do heed the length of the essay. You are required to write an essay of not less than 350 words. Anything shorter would definitely be penalised. But do not write too long an essay. Some students can easily write anything between 600 and 800 words. Remember, the more you write, the more mistakes you may make. Weak students are strongly advised not to write a lengthy essay

 If you choose to write from your own perspective, then use the first person singular, that is, I. If you choose to write from someone elses perspective, use third person pronouns (he, she, it). Be consistent in your choice of pronouns. Do not switch perspectives mid-way through the essay.

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