The following are writing competencies established by the UNI English Department. They suggest that a passing essay must contain:

1. A central idea that is clearly stated or clearly implied and effectively restricted;
2. A relevant and logical progression of points supporting the central idea;
3. A systematic plan of organization that reveals a purposive arrangement: introduction, body, conclusion;
4. Effective statements and transitional markers that identify the major divisions of the theme;
5. Logically and adequately developed paragraphs which include relevant and concrete examples, explanations, and other details;
6. Sentences which are clearly constructed and varied in form;
7. Words that are appropriate, precise, and economical;
8. Mechanics which conform to standard written English.