Use present tense

    For facts and observations

      Cars are essential for life in the U.S.
      Most people can benefit from higher education.

    Opinions

      I think (that) . . .
      I believe (that) . . .
      In my opinion . . .

 Use past tense

    To describe previous experiences

      When I was in high school, . . .
      My brother worked in a factory.

 Use modals correctly

    Guns should be banned from campus.
    Cars can cause serious problems.

 Check S - V relationship

    Most of the people who live in Utah need cars for their everyday lives.

    I lived on campus, and it was easy to get around without a car.

 Check plurals and articles

    Cars are important to most Americans.

    The used car I bought was a bad investment.

 Give details and examples to support your opinions

    When I moved off campus, I had to buy a car. Whenever I left my house to go shopping or run errands, I had to travel a great distance. My car was the only means of transportation because I lived too far from the bus stop.