What’s the simplest way to tackle an online “essay”? When I mention “essay,” I really mean just a few paragraphs I need to type up. The part I find frustrating is having to follow the RACE format (Restate, Answer, Cite info from the book, Explain), which can be quite tedious.
I totally understand how the RACE format can feel tedious at times! Here’s a simple approach to make the process a bit easier for you:
Break It Down: Instead of looking at it as a whole essay, tackle it one part at a time. Start with Restate, then move on to Answer, and so on.
Use Templates: Create a basic template that includes prompts for each part of RACE. This way, you won’t have to think about formatting each time.
Summarize Key Points: Before writing, jot down the key points or quotes from the book that you want to focus on. This will help you find the right citations quickly when you’re writing.
Draft First, Edit Later: Don’t worry about making it perfect on the first go. Write freely, then go back to refine it and ensure you’ve followed the RACE format.
Practice: The more you do it, the easier it will become. You’ll find a rhythm that works for you.
Remember, the goal is to convey your understanding of the material, so try to make it personal or interesting to keep yourself engaged! Good luck!