How Long Does It Take to Write a 1200 Word Essay: And Why Do Cats Always Sit on Your Keyboard When You're Typing?

Writing a 1200-word essay can be a daunting task, especially when you’re faced with a looming deadline. The time it takes to complete such an essay can vary greatly depending on several factors, including your writing speed, the complexity of the topic, and your level of familiarity with the subject matter. In this article, we’ll explore these factors in detail and provide some tips to help you write your essay more efficiently.

Factors Affecting the Time to Write a 1200-Word Essay

1. Writing Speed

Typing Speed: If you’re a fast typist, you can get your ideas down more quickly. The average typing speed is around 40 words per minute (wpm), but some people can type much faster. At 40 wpm, typing 1200 words would take about 30 minutes. However, this doesn’t account for the time spent thinking and organizing your thoughts.
Handwriting Speed: If you prefer to write by hand, your speed will likely be slower. Handwriting typically ranges from 20 to 30 wpm, so it could take you anywhere from 40 to 60 minutes just to write out the words.

2. Research Time

Familiarity with the Topic: If you’re already knowledgeable about the subject, you’ll spend less time researching. However, if the topic is new to you, you may need to spend several hours gathering information.
Quality of Sources: The time spent researching also depends on the quality and accessibility of your sources. Reliable sources may take longer to find, but they will improve the quality of your essay.

3. Planning and Outlining

Creating an Outline: Before you start writing, it’s helpful to create an outline. This can take anywhere from 15 minutes to an hour, depending on how detailed you want it to be. An outline helps you organize your thoughts and ensures that your essay has a logical flow.
Brainstorming: If you’re struggling to come up with ideas, brainstorming can take additional time. This process can be as short as 10 minutes or as long as an hour, depending on your creativity and the complexity of the topic.

4. Writing and Editing

Drafting: The actual writing process can take anywhere from 2 to 4 hours, depending on your writing speed and how much you need to refer back to your research. Some people prefer to write a rough draft quickly and then revise it, while others take their time to write a more polished first draft.
Editing and Proofreading: After you’ve written your essay, you’ll need to spend time editing and proofreading. This can take anywhere from 30 minutes to 2 hours, depending on the length of the essay and the number of errors you need to correct.

5. Distractions and Breaks

Distractions: If you’re easily distracted, it can take longer to complete your essay. Common distractions include social media, phone calls, and, of course, cats sitting on your keyboard.
Breaks: Taking short breaks can help you stay focused and productive. However, if your breaks are too long or too frequent, they can extend the time it takes to finish your essay.

Tips for Writing a 1200-Word Essay More Efficiently

Set a Timer: Use a timer to keep yourself on track. For example, you could set a timer for 25 minutes and work on your essay without any distractions. After the timer goes off, take a 5-minute break.
Create a Detailed Outline: A well-structured outline can save you time during the writing process. It helps you stay focused and ensures that you cover all the necessary points.
Write in Batches: Instead of trying to write the entire essay in one sitting, break it down into smaller sections. For example, you could write the introduction and first two paragraphs in one session, then take a break before moving on to the next section.
Use Writing Tools: There are many tools available that can help you write more efficiently. For example, grammar checkers like Grammarly can help you catch errors as you write, and citation generators can save you time when creating your bibliography.
Minimize Distractions: Find a quiet place to work where you won’t be interrupted. Turn off notifications on your phone and computer, and let your family or roommates know that you need some uninterrupted time to focus.
Stay Organized: Keep all your research materials and notes in one place. This will save you time when you need to refer back to them during the writing process.
Take Care of Yourself: Make sure you’re well-rested and hydrated before you start writing. A tired or dehydrated brain is less efficient, and you’ll likely take longer to complete your essay.

Q: How can I improve my typing speed? A: Practice is key to improving your typing speed. There are many online typing tests and games that can help you increase your speed and accuracy over time.

Q: What should I do if I get stuck while writing? A: If you get stuck, take a short break and come back to your essay with a fresh perspective. Sometimes, stepping away from your work for a few minutes can help you overcome writer’s block.

Q: How can I make my essay more engaging? A: Use vivid language, include relevant examples, and make sure your essay has a clear and logical structure. Engaging essays often tell a story or present a compelling argument that keeps the reader interested.

Q: Is it better to write the introduction first or last? A: This depends on your personal preference. Some people find it helpful to write the introduction first to set the tone for the rest of the essay, while others prefer to write it last, after they’ve developed their main points.

Q: How do I know if my essay is too long or too short? A: Use the word count feature in your word processor to keep track of your essay’s length. If it’s too long, look for sections that can be condensed or removed. If it’s too short, consider adding more examples or expanding on your points.

By considering these factors and following the tips provided, you can write a 1200-word essay more efficiently and effectively. Remember, the key to successful essay writing is preparation, focus, and practice.