The 议论文 rewards structure more than eloquence. Graders read hundreds of essays in a day and the ones with a clear thesis, three distinct supporting points, and a memorable last sentence stand out without needing to be beautiful.
Start with a one-sentence thesis in the opening paragraph. State the position you are taking. Do not begin with a rhetorical question — every fourth essay begins that way and none of them earn full marks.
Each body paragraph should have one clear claim, one strong example (historical, literary, or contemporary — vary these across the three), and one sentence tying the example back to your thesis. Do not use the same kind of example three times in a row.
The closing paragraph is not a summary. It is where you elevate the thesis into a wider point about society, character, or knowledge. One sentence of aphorism, quoted or your own. Then stop.
Handwriting matters. It matters more than students want to believe. Not calligraphy — legibility, consistent size, straight lines. If a grader has to strain to read you, you are already down a point.