Writing Tricks for College Essays and beyond
by Mada Jurado
Master academic writing with ease! Writing Tricks is here to help you write with clarity and confidence. From crafting college essays to refining your writing style, this podcast is your guide to becoming a confident and effective writer. Whether you're a university student or simply want to write better, tune in for quick tips, step-by-step strategies, and inspiration to improve your skills today. Take your work to the next level. Perfect for students, professionals and lifelong learners.Where to Listen: bio.site/writingtricks
Episodes
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80. Essays | How to End Your Essay with a Memorable Conclusion
How can you leave a lasting impression on your reader and avoid a weak or repetitive ending? In today’s episode, we will look into one of the trickiest parts of essay writing: the conclusion. Discover three effective strategies to wrap up your essay with impact: the Echo Technique, the Call to...
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79. Essays | 5 Transition Words That Can Make or Break Your Essay.
Struggling to make your essays flow smoothly? In this episode, we uncover 5 powerful transition words that can elevate your writing and ensure your ideas connect seamlessly. Learn how to use them effectively, avoid common mistakes, and transform your essays from good to exceptional. A must-listen...
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78. Historical Essays | Eating the Poor: The Genius of Swift’s Satire in ‘A modest proposal’
What if an essay could shock, amuse, and provoke all at once? In this episode, we’re uncovering the brilliance of Jonathan Swift’s A Modest Proposal. Published in 1729, this satirical essay suggests a shocking solution to poverty in Ireland: selling children as food for the wealthy. But beneath…
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77. Essays | From Montaigne to Modern Blogs: The Evolution of the Essay
What do personal reflections, philosophical debates, and viral think-pieces have in common? They all trace their roots back to the essay, a literary form that has shaped how we think, write, and share ideas for centuries. In this episode, we explore the fascinating journey of the essay, starting...
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76. Essays | Civil Disobedience: The Essay That Sparked Revolutions
What makes an essay powerful enough to inspire revolutions and shape history? In this special episode, we explore Henry David Thoreau’s Civil Disobedience—a timeless call to resist injustice that influenced leaders like Gandhi and Martin Luther King Jr. Whether you're an ESL student, a college...
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75. Essays | Common Essay Writing Mistakes and How to Avoid Them
Struggling with essays? This episode is here to help! We break down the most common mistakes students make in academic essay writing, from weak thesis statements to poor structure and misused evidence. For each mistake, we explain why it’s an issue and provide actionable tips to avoid it. Here’s...
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74. Essays | 3 Words That Will Instantly Elevate a Native Speaker's Writing
Does your writing feel "good" but not exceptional? In this episode, we uncover three simple yet powerful words that can transform your essays, emails, or articles into polished, professional pieces. Learn how to add depth with "nuance," connect ideas seamlessly with "moreover," and tackle complex...
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73. Essays | Crafting the Perfect Roadmap: How to Guide Your Essay to Success
Have you ever started reading an essay and felt lost after the introduction? Chances are, it was missing a clear roadmap—a simple yet powerful guide to help readers navigate the journey ahead. In this episode, we’ll break down what a roadmap is, why it’s essential, and how to write one that keeps...
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72. Essays | Nail Your Thesis Statement: The Key to a Successful Essay
Struggling to craft a strong thesis statement? This episode has you covered! In under 4 minutes, you’ll learn the three golden rules for writing a thesis that wows professors and makes your essay shine. Discover how to: 1) Answer the question with clarity and focus. 2) Add specific details that…
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71. Essays | How to write an irresistible essay hook (video)
📚 Ready to grab your reader's attention in seconds? In this video episode, we dive into the art of crafting the perfect hook for your essay. Whether you're starting with a thought-provoking quote, an eye-opening fact, or a clever rhetorical question, I'll show you how to keep your audience...
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70. Essays | How to write a captivating essay intro (video)
Struggling with how to start your essay? In this quick video, I break down the three essential elements for a captivating college introduction: an irresistible hook, a clear thesis statement, and a roadmap that sets the stage for your ideas. Perfect for students and lifelong learners who want…
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69. Revamping Writing Tricks: New Format, New Goals
Welcome to the revival of Writing Tricks! In this special episode, I’m unveiling all the exciting changes: new formats, more interaction, and a renewed focus on helping you improve your English writing skills. Now with video and enhanced communication channels like Twitter/X and Buy Me a Coffee,...
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68. Vocabulary | Easily confused words: beside and besides
Ever wondered about the difference between 'beside' and 'besides'? 📚 In our next episode, we're breaking down these two commonly confused words. We'll explore how 'beside' keeps things close and physical, while 'besides' opens up a world of additional information. Join me to clarify these...
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67. Vocabulary | Easily confused words: rise vs. raise
Confused about when to use 'rise' and 'raise'? 🌅 In this episode, we're tackling this common grammar dilemma. Discover the key differences between these two verbs, how to use them correctly, and the simple rules that will boost your confidence in writing and speaking. Join me for a clear and...
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66. Grammar and Vocabulary | 'At the end,' or 'in the end'? What's the difference?
Have you ever been puzzled by the subtle difference between 'at the end' and 'in the end'? 🤔 In this episode, we'll unravel the mystery behind these two seemingly similar phrases. Join me as we explore how a small preposition can completely change the meaning of a sentence: from pinpointing...
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65. Vocabulary | How to talk about losing a job: "being fired" vs. "being laid off"
Curious about the fine line between being 'fired' and 'laid off'? 🤔 Join me in this episode as we unravel the distinct difference between these two workplace terms. From the origins of the expression "being fired" to its emotional impact, let's dissect the nuances that shape the narratives of…
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64. Vocabulary | How to say that you love someone
Ever wondered why a simple "Love you" can feel different from a heartfelt "I love you"? 🤔 In this episode, we delve into the subtle yet profound distinctions between these two expressions of affection. Join me as we explore the nuances of language, emotion, and intimacy in understanding the…
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63. Organisation | How to keep notes that inspire you
Are you tired of losing track of your inspiration? 📝 In our latest episode, I'm spilling the secrets to capturing creativity on the go! Say goodbye to scattered thoughts in old notebooks and hello to the future of note-taking. Join me as we explore the evolution from Moleskine musings to the...
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62. Motivation | How to write gratitude notes (by finding the right mindset)
Ever thought about leaving a little sparkle of gratitude for a stranger to stumble upon? 🌟 In our upcoming episode, we're diving into the art of writing gratitude notes and the unexpected joy they bring to both the writer and the recipient. Tune in, and we will explore how a simple act of…
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61. Writing process | How to approach editing your personal texts?
Join me in our latest writing episode as we delve into the art of editing personal texts. Discover a powerful writing trick that can elevate your editing process to new heights: reading your draft attentively before you even begin editing. Uncover the three key benefits of this strategy and learn...
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60. Formatting | How to format your messages in WhatsApp
How can you go from plain, boring messages in Whatsapp to spectacular ones? Keep listening. Learn how to impress all of your friends with these super-cool "writing tricks"! TRICK 1: BOLD MESSAGES To bold your message, place an asterisk on both sides of the text, like this: *text* TRICK 2…
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59. Motivation | Are you writing too much? Well, don't!
Are you writing too much? Well, don't! If you want to become a proud, consistent writer, just follow these two easy tricks… TRICK 1: Set the bar ultra-low Never set goals like, “I want to write 1000 words a day.” That’s too much, and you'll get disappointed with yourself as soon as you miss one...
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58. Reports | How to write reports, from the basics to the finished product
What is a report? Why should I care? How do I go about it? Find out in today's epidode SAMPLE REPORT TASK: The international organization where you work has a sum of money available for making improvement to the work environment in your office to make it more productive. You have been asked to...
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57. Proposals | How to write academic proposals
What on Earth is a proposal? Will I ever need to write one while I am in College? Well, there is an easy trick to help you with it. Here Is What You Should Do For Your PROPOSAL. Follow this sample one... SAMPLE TASK: “You are member of the Students’ Council at the college where you study. The...
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56. Proposals | What is a proposal, and how does it work?
What's the Single Most Important Thing You Need To Know About PROPOSALS? No, not that kind of proposal... Proposals in an academic setting. What Is a proposal, what is a report, and How Do they Work? Keep listening: here Is What You Should Do! THANK YOU FOR LISTENING TO THIS EPISODE Thank you for...
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55. Articles | How to write irresistible titles
So, you want to write addictive articles. What's the first step? The title. How do you write a “clickbait” one? Find out here... HOW TO WRITE ADDICTIVE TITLES - Write something shocking: “Computer games are way too soft; we want brutality!” - Leave your reader interested: “You'll never believe…
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54. Articles | How to write the perfect article for your blog
What are the top six steps that can turn your last article into a viral one? Is there anything you can do, or anything that you should avoid? Find out in today's episode OUTLINE: 6 EASY STEPS TO WRITE AMAZING ARTICLES AND BLOGPOSTS STEP 1. Select your topic. Narrow it down. STEP 2. Address your...
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53. Articles | How to write an A+ article in an English exam
As we have covered in the previous episode, writing an article in an English exam context is just a way to show your examiners that you can write in a personal, direct, engaging way. What are the kind of things you will have to write about? Is there a sample article we could analyse? Can we have…
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52. Articles | How to write a winning article in the context of an exam
What is an article? Or, at least, what do examiners mean by an article? What is the difference between an article and other academic genres? What are the top 5 things to bear in mind when writing one? Find out in today's epidode. THANK YOU FOR LISTENING TO THIS EPISODE Thank you for listening to...
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51. Reviews | How to write an excellent review for Google Maps
Let's have a look at a sample review of a restaurant. I hope it will inspire you to feel confident and to post something online! REVIEW THE LOTUS FLOWER I tried the Lotus flower for the first time this month with my family for my dad's birthday, and I realised that it was easily the best Chinese...
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50. Reviews | How to write an inspiring body and conclusion for a review
What is the most optimum way to write the internal part of a review, as well as its conclusion? In this episode, we will have a look at how to solve this problem looking at different angles. From a semantic point of view, we will look at what to include and how to distribute it in different...
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49. Reviews | How to write the ideal introduction for a review
What is the first thing you need to know about writing a proper review? Discover how to establish your authority. Experiment and surprise your audience by including a revelation that you had thanks to the very same thing that you are reviewing. Invite your reader to come with you on that journey…
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48. Reviews | How to write the perfect review
Is there a strategy that can help you producing the perfect review? What are the main communicative functions that we need to portray when we are writing an excellent one? How can we optimize them so that in a few sentences we can produce a memorable review? Whether you are trying to write about…
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47. Application letters | How to write a successful job application
What is the secret to writing a successful job application letter? Find out in today's episode. SAMPLE TASK Wanted Friendly, English-speaking people to work as restaurant and bar staff on our Mediterranean cruise ships. Tell us about Why you would like to work for us Any relevant experience you…
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46. Formal letters and emails | How to begin and end a formal letter correctly (salutations)
Do you know how to begin and end a formal letter (or email) correctly? Find out in today's episode THANK YOU FOR LISTENING TO THIS EPISODE Thank you for listening to this episode. I hope that it helped you discovering something about writing that you did not know, or that it helped you looking at...
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45. Informal emails and letters | How to write them, from planning to finished product
What are the key ingredients of an informal email or letter? How can you approach this task? From planning to finished product, find everything you need in this episode. INFORMAL EMAILS: SAMPLE TASKS You have just received this email from Jo, a friend in Canada. From: Jo Subject: Help me! I…
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44. Emails and letters | General considerations about emails and letters
Can you write an impressive email? Do you know how to include good content, score high in communicative achievement, show good organization and structure, and display appropriate language control? Find out in today's episode. THANK YOU FOR LISTENING TO THIS EPISODE Thank you for listening to this...
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43. Academic writing | How examiners mark essay papers
How do Cambridge examiners mark papers? Find out about "Content", "Communicative achievement", "Organisation and structure" and "Language control". Discover what each one of them entails. Understand how grammar, syntax, punctuation, format, tone and ideas are assessed. THANK YOU FOR LISTENING TO...
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42. Discursive essays | How to write a discursive essay
What are the key ingredients of a discursive essay? How can you approach this task? From planning to finished product, find everything you need in this episode. SAMPLE ESSAY TASK In your English class, you have been talking about the benefits of regular exercise. Now, your teacher has asked you…
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41. Argumentative and Persuasive essays | How to write a good "agree or disagree" essay
What makes a good "agree/disagree" essay for the Cambridge exams, at a B2 level? Find out in today's episode. SAMPLE ESSAY TASK In your English class, you have been talking about wildlife conservation. Now, your English teacher has asked you write an essay. Write an essay using all the notes, and...
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40. Descriptive essays | How to write a good essay for the Cambridge exams (First Certificate, B2)
What makes a good essay for the Cambridge exams, at a B2 level? Find out in today's episode SAMPLE ESSAY TASK What can young people do to help the environment? Write about: 1. Recycling 2. Using cars less 3. Your own idea SAMPLE ESSAY (SIMPLE VERSION) There are many things young people can do to...
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39. Essays | How to write the perfect conclusion
What are the main communicative functions that you should ideally include in your conclusion? What is something that you should never include? Find out in today's episode. THANK YOU FOR LISTENING TO THIS EPISODE Thank you for listening to this episode. I hope that it helped you discovering...
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38. Essays | How to write a good body paragraph
What are the key ingredients that make for a fantastic body paragraph? Find out in today's episode THANK YOU FOR LISTENING TO THIS EPISODE Thank you for listening to this episode. I hope that it helped you discovering something about writing that you did not know, or that it helped you looking at...
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37. Essays | How to write a good essay intro
Do you know how to write a good essay intro? What would you use as a "hook"? What is a thesis statement? How would you structure your arguments in order to defend your point? Find out in today's episode. THANK YOU FOR LISTENING TO THIS EPISODE Thank you for listening to this episode. I hope that…
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36. Essays | How to understand the structure of an essay
What is an essay? What are their main functions? How are essays organised? What are their main features? Find out in today's episode. THANK YOU FOR LISTENING TO THIS EPISODE Thank you for listening to this episode. I hope that it helped you discovering something about writing that you did not…
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35. Academic writing | How to identify cohesive elements in texts
Do you know how to identify cohesive elements in texts? Listen to this episode to reflect upon some cohesive devices found in a short, given text. THANK YOU FOR LISTENING TO THIS EPISODE Thank you for listening to this episode. I hope that it helped you discovering something about writing that…
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34. Academic writing | How to produce cohesive texts (cohesion)
What is cohesion? What is the connection between cohesion and coherence? What are some cohesive devices at your disposal? What would happen to a text if you used cohesive devices excessively!? Find out in today's episode. THANK YOU FOR LISTENING TO THIS EPISODE Thank you for listening to this...
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33. Academic writing | How to improve text coherence
In today's episode, we are going to explore how to fix a faulty, incoherent sentence in which some piece of key information is missing. THANK YOU FOR LISTENING TO THIS EPISODE Thank you for listening to this episode. I hope that it helped you discovering something about writing that you did not...
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32. Academic writing | How to identify coherent ideas (2/2)
Can you identify what supporting sentences will increase your text coherence? And more importantly, why? Find out in today's episode with a little bit of guided practice. THANK YOU FOR LISTENING TO THIS EPISODE Thank you for listening to this episode. I hope that it helped you discovering…
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31. Academic writing | How to identify coherent ideas (1/2)
Can you identify what supporting sentences will increase your text coherence? And more importantly, why? Find out in today's episode with a little bit of guided practice. THANK YOU FOR LISTENING TO THIS EPISODE Thank you for listening to this episode. I hope that it helped you discovering…
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About this show
Master academic writing with ease! Writing Tricks is here to help you write with clarity and confidence. From crafting college essays to refining your writing style, this podcast is your guide to becoming a confident and effective writer. Whether you're a university student or simply want to write better, tune in for quick tips, step-by-step strategies, and inspiration to improve your skills today. Take your work to the next level. Perfect for students, professionals and lifelong learners.Where to Listen: bio.site/writingtricks
Hosted by
Mada Jurado