All I Really Needed To Know... Robert Fulgham Essay Prompt Directions 1. Proper MLA format needs to be adhered to when composing this essay. You need to have one-inch margins on  both top and bottom, and left and right. It needs to be double-spaced, typed, and headed as follows. In the top left-hand margin, put your name, teacher's name, course title, and the date. (separate lines, double-spaced) Double-spaced from there needs to be the title of the essay, centered, but not underlined. Double-spaced from there you need to   begin the essay with indentation. In the top right hand margin, one half inch down, you need to number your pages with your last name and the page number. 2. The prompt for your essay is the phrase, All I really needed to know... This needs to be put in the essay verbatim at some point. It can  be your first line or you can incorporate it later. You may choose to begin your essay with an anecdote or story that leads to the phrase. You may include a list in your essay if you would like, but make sure to follow proper MLA format. 3. Your essay needs to be 3-4 solid paragraphs. (A good paragraph has about 10-12 typed lines) It should be descriptive, written in first person, and contain personal examples and reasoning. It should have a logical flow and come to good closure. You can incorporate quotes, if you like. 4. Spelling and grammar will count towards your grade so it is very important that you go through a revision process before turning in the essay. You do not have to submit any drafts.