If you think about why someone may struggle with how to write a composition, you will realize that transforming a single topic or idea into a full-blown writing piece can be quite overwhelming. You may begin to wonder, “How am I going to fill this page(s)?”, “how do I arrange my thoughts and points?”, or “What tone is best to express myself in?” Well, your feelings are valid but that is why in this article, I will show you an easy, well-detailed way on how to write a composition.
What is composition writing?
Composition writing is the process of developing a piece of writing that clearly and creatively expresses ideas, thoughts, and arguments, on a given topic. This type of writing can be used to provide in-depth information, reflect on an idea, analyze a topic, or even entertain people. Therefore, the writing depends on the context.
Types of composition
The types of composition we have are broad but they can be narrowed down into four major types based on their patterns and purpose. They are:
Narrative Composition
This seeks to tell a story or explain in detail how an event occurred. It can either be fictional or a real-life event, but either way, it breathes life into a story that others did not experience. This composition mostly has a plot, characters, and settings.
Descriptive Composition
If you are required to describe a place, person, object, or event that others have not experienced, then the descriptive composition is what you need. It is used to give a vivid picture by using detailed language. The words engage the reader’s senses and they are sure to feel the required emotions.
Expository Composition
This is an educational composition. The informative articles or even your textbooks are typical examples. Expository compositions explain a topic or even analyze a concept in a logical and organized structure. To clarify the points, this composition provides evidence and facts.
Argumentative Composition
It is mostly used to debate personal opinions and persuade readers to agree with one’s point of view or belief. Otherwise known as an argumentative essay, this piece of writing gives a structured argument with evidence and counterarguments.
The Parts of a composition
Now that the type of composition has been explained, let’s examine the parts of a composition.
These parts are divided into three and it is the same structure that guides all the types of a composition. They include:
The introduction paragraph
This is the hook that precedes the remaining information in the composition. It sets the ball rolling by creatively presenting the topic. A good introduction paragraph should engage and pique the interest of the reader.
The body
This is where you explain your topic in detail. All the outlined points should be explained in a structured and detailed manner in the body section. Typically, the body of an essay should be an average of three paragraphs, but in some cases where the topics cannot be discussed in just three paragraphs, you can add more to it to convey your opinions or information.
The conclusion paragraph
This is where you summarize all your writing and creatively bind everything together to support the topic.
Features of Good Composition Writing
A good composition can hold the attention of people while passing the intended message. Here are the features of good composition writing:
Appropriate language use
A composition is writing and as such it should have a strong command of language. Ensure your sentences are structured properly, use the appropriate vocabulary and terminologies, and spelling and punctuation should also be correct.
Originality and creativity
The best compositions are born out of creative thinking. Your composition should have original ideas and not be repetitive. If you want to keep the people hooked, then, present fresh and distinct ideas.
Clarity
A composition is a form of communication and this cannot be achieved without clarity. Ensure your ideas and points do not create confusion. Use clear language to convey your message.
Focus
There is always a topic or theme for every composition, so always focus your writing on it. All ideas to be presented in each paragraph must be focused on the topic or theme of the composition.
Proper structure
To write a good composition, all your points should be properly structured. Always follow the typical structure of composition writing which includes the introduction, body, and confusion. Clearly present your points in the body and let them be linked to the topic or theme. It’s always easier to pass your message this way.
Steps on How to Write a Composition
The process of writing any type of composition is quite similar. They are:
The thinking step
This is the very first step you should take whenever you want to write a composition. Without a clear understanding of the topic or theme, you may end up derailing from the point. So, take a moment to brainstorm. Figure out what you are set to achieve with the topic. Understanding the tone of writing that is needed based on the type of compositions and if need be, make adequate research on facts of the subject matter. While you are at it ensure you jot down everything you come up with so you won’t forget, and note how it connects to the topic.
The outline step
After thinking and jotting down some points and facts, the next step is to create an outline. Think of it as the foundation of your composition. Here the work of organizing takes place and those research, thoughts, and ideas, will be arranged in a way that will give an outlook of how the final writing will be. So, you can modify whatever you need to ensure the ideas are flowing nicely.
The first draft step
Now it’s time to develop the outline. Each idea will be built upon in clear language. For this step, don’t worry about perfection yet. You will still edit later. So, focus on writing everything that comes to your mind. The essence of this step is to write down every word that comes to your mind.
The editing step
After your first draft, the next step is editing. Remember that your draft consists of everything that comes to your mind, here is where you worry about coherence, clarity, grammar, sentences, and how well your points reflect the topic or theme. Take your time on this and don’t rush things. Anything that feels off, take it out. If there’s anything that you feel is missing, add it in. Also, don’t forget to verify all facts.
The proofreading step
Here is the final step in writing your composition. Though it is the last step, it is a crucial one. Look through your composition for any mistakes that you did not catch in the editing step. Correct all syntax and grammatical errors. Here do in-line editing and be thorough with it. Once this is achieved, your composition is ready.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the 4 types of composition?
There are four major types of composition, and the tone of writing differs. They are narration, description, exposition, and argumentation.
What is the introduction of composition writing
The introduction of composition writing refers to the opening paragraph that is aimed at creatively introducing the topic of discussion. Otherwise known as a hook, it should be attention-grabbing, informative, pique the reader’s interest, and set the tone for the rest of the writing.
What are the qualities of a good composition?
A good composition should have these key qualities: a smooth flow of ideas, ease of understanding, clear focus on the topic, insightful analysis, originality, and correctness.
What are the 3 parts of a composition?
The three fundamental parts of a composition are the introduction, body, and conclusion.
What is the difference between an essay and a composition?
Although interchangeably used, essay and composition have different meanings. A Composition is a more inclusive term that captures various forms of writing that could include an article, short story, poem, or even an essay. Therefore, an essay is a type of composition often used in academic settings and is a structured piece of writing.
Conclusion
In conclusion, it is quite easy to master the art of writing composition. Once you understand how to brainstorm, outline, develop your structure, edit, and proofread, you will be able to effectively pass across writing, a creative, compelling, and impactful composition, as well as engage your readers.
