How to prepare.
You don’t need advanced coursework to write a strong HIEEC essay — you need a clear argument, honest evidence, and tight prose. Here is how to build all three.
How to write a strong economics essay
The hardest part of a 1,500-word essay is not finding things to say — it is deciding what to leave out. Strong entries pick one narrow question inside the prompt and answer it with a clear thesis, a few well-chosen pieces of evidence, and an honest engagement with the best counterargument. Everything else is cut.
Write for an intelligent non-specialist. Define a term the first time you use it, explain why a number matters rather than just stating it, and make every paragraph do one job. Cite your sources properly, and never stretch what the evidence can actually show — reviewers notice. Then revise hard: the difference between a good essay and a shortlisted one is usually the second and third drafts.
Build your foundation
You don’t need to read everything — you need reliable sources for the theme you choose.
Intro economics
A solid introductory text (micro and macro) to get the core concepts right — supply and demand, incentives, market failure, trade-offs.
Reputable data
Use primary data: the World Bank, IMF, OECD, FRED, and Our World in Data. Cite the source and the year — not a secondhand figure.
Economics journalism
Outlets such as The Economist help you see how economists frame current debates — useful for finding an angle, not as your only evidence.
Strong essays
Read past award-winning HIEEC essays where available to see how a tight argument is built within the word limit.
From prompt to submission
Read & pick
Read all four prompts; pick the one where you already have a specific opinion.
Outline
Write your thesis in one sentence, then list the 3–4 points that defend it.
Draft & cite
Write to the argument, add evidence with sources, and answer the best objection.
Cut & submit
Revise to under 1,500 words, proofread the citations, and submit early.
Want a second pair of eyes?
If you would like guidance — choosing a prompt, sharpening a thesis, or feedback on a draft — we can point you to preparation support and answer questions about the contest. We are an independent guide, not the organiser, so for official rules and submission you should always go to HUEA.
Tell us your year and which theme interests you, and we’ll suggest where to start.
Ready to start preparing?
Message us with your year and the theme you’re drawn to, and we’ll help you plan your essay.