The essay is a key part of your preparation for Black Belt. Tang Soo Do is a traditional martial art that develops not only physical ability, but also mental and personal growth. Writing your essay is part of that process. It allows you to reflect, research, and clearly communicate your understanding and experience.

Your essay will be read and evaluated by your instructor, Master Nar, and ultimately Grandmaster Ki Yun Yi. For this reason, it is important that time and effort are put into producing a well-thought-out and properly presented piece of work.

PURPOSE OF THE ESSAY

At the earlier Dan levels, the essay is designed to help you reflect on your personal journey in Tang Soo Do. It gives you the opportunity to think about what your training has meant to you and how it has influenced your development.
At higher levels, the essay becomes more in-depth and research-based. You will be expected to explore a specific topic in detail, combining your own experience with further study and insight.

The purpose is not to test perfect writing ability, but to assess your understanding, reflection, and effort.

ESSAY TOPICS & WORD COUNT

  • To Test for 1st Dan (Cho Dan): Minimum 1000 words
    Topic: “What is the most valuable thing you’ve gained from training in Tang Soo Do?”
  • 2nd Dan: Minimum 2000 words
    Topic: Explain one or more ways teaching has changed your perspective
  • Higher Dans:
    Topics will be assigned and are expected to be more detailed and research-based 

SUBMISSION REQUIREMENTS

  • Essays must be submitted at least one month before the grading date
  • The exact submission date will be given by your instructor
  • If no date is given, it is your responsibility to ensure submission no later than one month before testing
  • Late submissions will not be accepted. If the essay is late, you will not test in that cycle.

Submission Format

  • Hard copy required
  • Must be:
    • Binded and well presented
    • Include a cover page
  • Include:
    • 2 passport-sized photos

Additional Submission

  • You may also submit your essay electronically to your instructor for review prior to final submission
  • If submitting physically, provide two printed copies

FORMATTING REQUIREMENTS

  • Font: Times New Roman or Arial
  • Size: 12 pt
  • Spacing: Double-spaced 
Header must include:
  • Your name
  • Rank
  • Age
  • Gup/Dan number
  • Word count
  • Essay title
  • Page numbers: bottom center
  • Closing statement:
    “Respectfully Submitted – [Your Name]”

WRITING GUIDELINES

  • Choose a topic that is meaningful and connected to your experience
  • Avoid simply repeating definitions or material from manuals
  • Support your ideas with reflection and, where appropriate, research
  • Make your essay personal and genuine 

Style

  • Be clear and concise
  • Avoid unnecessary wording just to reach the word count
  • Do not use slang, abbreviations, or informal language
  • Do not include Maltese words (the essay must be in English) 

Grammar & Structure

  • Use correct pronouns (e.g. singular vs plural agreement)
  • Avoid overusing the word “that” where it is not needed
  • Pay attention to punctuation and sentence structure 

Review Process

  • Have your essay reviewed by:
    • Your instructor
    • A mentor or another adult
Spell check alone is not sufficient. Your work should be properly reviewed before submission.

IMPORTANT NOTES

  • Essays are reviewed in advance so feedback can be given and improvements made before final submission
  • This process is part of your preparation and discipline
  • The effort you put into your essay reflects your readiness for the next level B

FINAL REMINDER

  • Submit on time (minimum one month before testing)
  • Submit hard copy (binded with cover page)
  • Include 2 passport photos
  • Ensure your essay is reviewed and properly presented
Your essay is not just a requirement, it is part of your journey in Tang Soo Do. Take it seriously and use it as an opportunity to reflect, learn, and grow.