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Basic Essay Structure

Essays written for an academic audience follow a structure with which you are likely familiar: Intro, Body, Conclusion.

Here is a general overview of what each of those sections “does” in the larger essay. Be aware, however, that certain assignments and certain professors may ask for additional content or require unusual formatting, so always be sure to read the assignment sheet as carefully as possible.

Introductory Section

  • Compelling quote about your topic (signal phrase and citation are needed!)
  • Interesting fact about your topic
  • Brief story about your topic
  • Context:  Provides basic information about your topic that leads into the thesis
  • Thesis:  Ends with the statement that provides a focus for the entire essay: the thesis

Body of the Essay

  • Paragraph order should follow the order of ideas that you laid out in the thesis
  • All paragraphs should remain focused on the thesis
  • Each paragraph discusses ONE idea; a topic sentence at the beginning of the paragraph will indicate that one idea
  • A strong conclusion leaves the reader with a sense of why this paper – and its topic – matter, and to whom, and in what way.
  • A strong conclusion could issue a call to further action, or a call for further research
  • A strong conclusion could revisit the “Hook” from the intro and elaborate on it as a way to close the essay

English 102: Reading, Research, and Writing by Emilie Zickel is licensed under a Creative Commons Attribution-NonCommercial-ShareAlike 4.0 International License , except where otherwise noted.

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Organization and Structure

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There is no single organizational pattern that works well for all writing across all disciplines; rather, organization depends on what you’re writing, who you’re writing it for, and where your writing will be read. In order to communicate your ideas, you’ll need to use a logical and consistent organizational structure in all of your writing. We can think about organization at the global level (your entire paper or project) as well as at the local level (a chapter, section, or paragraph). For an American academic situation, this means that at all times, the goal of revising for organization and structure is to consciously design your writing projects to make them easy for readers to understand. In this context, you as the writer are always responsible for the reader's ability to understand your work; in other words, American academic writing is writer-responsible. A good goal is to make your writing accessible and comprehensible to someone who just reads sections of your writing rather than the entire piece. This handout provides strategies for revising your writing to help meet this goal.

Note that this resource focuses on writing for an American academic setting, specifically for graduate students. American academic writing is of course not the only standard for academic writing, and researchers around the globe will have different expectations for organization and structure. The OWL has some more resources about writing for American and international audiences here .

Whole-Essay Structure

While organization varies across and within disciplines, usually based on the genre, publication venue, and other rhetorical considerations of the writing, a great deal of academic writing can be described by the acronym IMRAD (or IMRaD): Introduction, Methods, Results, and Discussion. This structure is common across most of the sciences and is often used in the humanities for empirical research. This structure doesn't serve every purpose (for instance, it may be difficult to follow IMRAD in a proposal for a future study or in more exploratory writing in the humanities), and it is often tweaked or changed to fit a particular situation. Still, its wide use as a base for a great deal of scholarly writing makes it worthwhile to break down here.

  • Introduction : What is the purpose of the study? What were the research questions? What necessary background information should the reader understand to help contextualize the study? (Some disciplines include their literature review section as part of the introduction; some give the literature review its own heading on the same level as the other sections, i.e., ILMRAD.) Some writers use the CARS model to help craft their introductions more effectively.
  • Methods: What methods did the researchers use? How was the study conducted? If the study included participants, who were they, and how were they selected?
  • Results : This section lists the data. What did the researchers find as a result of their experiments (or, if the research is not experimental, what did the researchers learn from the study)? How were the research questions answered?
  • Discussion : This section places the data within the larger conversation of the field. What might the results mean? Do these results agree or disagree with other literature cited? What should researchers do in the future?

Depending on your discipline, this may be exactly the structure you should use in your writing; or, it may be a base that you can see under the surface of published pieces in your field, which then diverge from the IMRAD structure to meet the expectations of other scholars in the field. However, you should always check to see what's expected of you in a given situation; this might mean talking to the professor for your class, looking at a journal's submission guidelines, reading your field's style manual, examining published examples, or asking a trusted mentor. Every field is a little different.

Outlining & Reverse Outlining

One of the most effective ways to get your ideas organized is to write an outline. A traditional outline comes as the pre-writing or drafting stage of the writing process. As you make your outline, think about all of the concepts, topics, and ideas you will need to include in order to accomplish your goal for the piece of writing. This may also include important citations and key terms. Write down each of these, and then consider what information readers will need to know in order for each point to make sense. Try to arrange your ideas in a way that logically progresses, building from one key idea or point to the next.

Questions for Writing Outlines

  • What are the main points I am trying to make in this piece of writing?
  • What background information will my readers need to understand each point? What will novice readers vs. experienced readers need to know?
  • In what order do I want to present my ideas? Most important to least important, or least important to most important? Chronologically? Most complex to least complex? According to categories? Another order?

Reverse outlining comes at the drafting or revision stage of the writing process. After you have a complete draft of your project (or a section of your project), work alone or with a partner to read your project with the goal of understanding the main points you have made and the relationship of these points to one another. The OWL has another resource about reverse outlining here.

Questions for Writing Reverse Outlines

  • What topics are covered in this piece of writing?
  • In what order are the ideas presented? Is this order logical for both novice and experienced readers?
  • Is adequate background information provided for each point, making it easy to understand how one idea leads to the next?
  • What other points might the author include to further develop the writing project?

Organizing at the sentence and paragraph level

Signposting.

Signposting is the practice of using language specifically designed to help orient readers of your text. We call it signposting because this practice is like leaving road signs for a driver — it tells your reader where to go and what to expect up ahead. Signposting includes the use of transitional words and phrasing, and they may be explicit or more subtle. For example, an explicit signpost might say:

This section will cover Topic A­­ and Topic B­­­­­.

A more subtle signpost might look like this:

It's important to consider the impact of Topic A­­ and Topic B­­­­­.

The style of signpost you use will depend on the genre of your paper, the discipline in which you are writing, and your or your readers’ personal preferences. Regardless of the style of signpost you select, it’s important to include signposts regularly. They occur most frequently at the beginnings and endings of sections of your paper. It is often helpful to include signposts at mid-points in your project in order to remind readers of where you are in your argument.

Questions for Identifying and Evaluating Signposts

  • How and where does the author include a phrase, sentence, or short group of sentences that explains the purpose and contents of the paper?
  • How does each section of the paper provide a brief summary of what was covered earlier in the paper?
  • How does each section of the paper explain what will be covered in that section?
  • How does the author use transitional words and phrases to guide readers through ideas (e.g. however, in addition, similarly, nevertheless, another, while, because, first, second, next, then etc.)?

WORKS CONSULTED

Clark, I. (2006). Writing the successful thesis and dissertation: Entering the conversation . Prentice Hall Press.

Davis, M., Davis, K. J., & Dunagan, M. (2012). Scientific papers and presentations . Academic press.

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  • How to write an expository essay

How to Write an Expository Essay | Structure, Tips & Examples

Published on July 14, 2020 by Jack Caulfield . Revised on July 23, 2023.

“Expository” means “intended to explain or describe something.” An expository essay provides a clear, focused explanation of a particular topic, process, or set of ideas. It doesn’t set out to prove a point, just to give a balanced view of its subject matter.

Expository essays are usually short assignments intended to test your composition skills or your understanding of a subject. They tend to involve less research and original arguments than argumentative essays .

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Table of contents

When should you write an expository essay, how to approach an expository essay, introducing your essay, writing the body paragraphs, concluding your essay, other interesting articles, frequently asked questions about expository essays.

In school and university, you might have to write expository essays as in-class exercises, exam questions, or coursework assignments.

Sometimes it won’t be directly stated that the assignment is an expository essay, but there are certain keywords that imply expository writing is required. Consider the prompts below.

The word “explain” here is the clue: An essay responding to this prompt should provide an explanation of this historical process—not necessarily an original argument about it.

Sometimes you’ll be asked to define a particular term or concept. This means more than just copying down the dictionary definition; you’ll be expected to explore different ideas surrounding the term, as this prompt emphasizes.

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An expository essay should take an objective approach: It isn’t about your personal opinions or experiences. Instead, your goal is to provide an informative and balanced explanation of your topic. Avoid using the first or second person (“I” or “you”).

The structure of your expository essay will vary according to the scope of your assignment and the demands of your topic. It’s worthwhile to plan out your structure before you start, using an essay outline .

A common structure for a short expository essay consists of five paragraphs: An introduction, three body paragraphs, and a conclusion.

Like all essays, an expository essay begins with an introduction . This serves to hook the reader’s interest, briefly introduce your topic, and provide a thesis statement summarizing what you’re going to say about it.

Hover over different parts of the example below to see how a typical introduction works.

In many ways, the invention of the printing press marked the end of the Middle Ages. The medieval period in Europe is often remembered as a time of intellectual and political stagnation. Prior to the Renaissance, the average person had very limited access to books and was unlikely to be literate. The invention of the printing press in the 15th century allowed for much less restricted circulation of information in Europe, paving the way for the Reformation.

The body of your essay is where you cover your topic in depth. It often consists of three paragraphs, but may be more for a longer essay. This is where you present the details of the process, idea or topic you’re explaining.

It’s important to make sure each paragraph covers its own clearly defined topic, introduced with a topic sentence . Different topics (all related to the overall subject matter of the essay) should be presented in a logical order, with clear transitions between paragraphs.

Hover over different parts of the example paragraph below to see how a body paragraph is constructed.

The invention of the printing press in 1440 changed this situation dramatically. Johannes Gutenberg, who had worked as a goldsmith, used his knowledge of metals in the design of the press. He made his type from an alloy of lead, tin, and antimony, whose durability allowed for the reliable production of high-quality books. This new technology allowed texts to be reproduced and disseminated on a much larger scale than was previously possible. The Gutenberg Bible appeared in the 1450s, and a large number of printing presses sprang up across the continent in the following decades. Gutenberg’s invention rapidly transformed cultural production in Europe; among other things, it would lead to the Protestant Reformation.

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The conclusion of an expository essay serves to summarize the topic under discussion. It should not present any new information or evidence, but should instead focus on reinforcing the points made so far. Essentially, your conclusion is there to round off the essay in an engaging way.

Hover over different parts of the example below to see how a conclusion works.

The invention of the printing press was important not only in terms of its immediate cultural and economic effects, but also in terms of its major impact on politics and religion across Europe. In the century following the invention of the printing press, the relatively stationary intellectual atmosphere of the Middle Ages gave way to the social upheavals of the Reformation and the Renaissance. A single technological innovation had contributed to the total reshaping of the continent.

If you want to know more about AI tools , college essays , or fallacies make sure to check out some of our other articles with explanations and examples or go directly to our tools!

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An expository essay is a broad form that varies in length according to the scope of the assignment.

Expository essays are often assigned as a writing exercise or as part of an exam, in which case a five-paragraph essay of around 800 words may be appropriate.

You’ll usually be given guidelines regarding length; if you’re not sure, ask.

An expository essay is a common assignment in high-school and university composition classes. It might be assigned as coursework, in class, or as part of an exam.

Sometimes you might not be told explicitly to write an expository essay. Look out for prompts containing keywords like “explain” and “define.” An expository essay is usually the right response to these prompts.

An argumentative essay tends to be a longer essay involving independent research, and aims to make an original argument about a topic. Its thesis statement makes a contentious claim that must be supported in an objective, evidence-based way.

An expository essay also aims to be objective, but it doesn’t have to make an original argument. Rather, it aims to explain something (e.g., a process or idea) in a clear, concise way. Expository essays are often shorter assignments and rely less on research.

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Responding Effectively to Essay Assignments

LESSON It is possible to develop a well-written essay A short piece of writing that focuses on at least one main idea. Some essays are also focused on the author's unique point of view, making them personal or autobiographical, while others are focused on a particular literary, scientific, or political subject. for a college class and still make a poor grade if the essay does not properly respond to the prompt Instructions for a writing assignment given by an instructor. that you were given. To make sure that you do not waste time and effort, you need to be able to translate the essay questions that you will encounter in any college writing assignments.

In this lesson, you will learn the four steps to properly respond to college writing assignments and how to develop effective thesis statements A brief statement that identifies a writer's thoughts, opinions, or conclusions about a topic. Thesis statements bring unity to a piece of writing, giving it a focus and a purpose. You can use three questions to help form a thesis statement: What is my topic? What am I trying to say about that topic? Why is this important to me or my reader? in response to those assignments.

Step 1: Understand the question type.

It is important to recognize what an essay question is asking. It is helpful to recognize the four major categories of essay questions: summarizing To give a short version of the main points of a text. , explaining relationships, applying previously learned principles A fundamental belief that guides a person's behavior, or a law that describes the occurrence of natural phenomena. , and expressing your opinion Point of view that shows a personal belief or bias and cannot be proven to be completely true. .

Here are examples of each major category of essay questions.

Summarizing essay question:

In your own words, summarize the plot of A Christmas Carol by Charles Dickens .

Explaining relationships essay question:

What is/are the relationship(s) between human personalities and their choice of pet? For example, what are the commonalities among people who adopt dogs versus cats or birds?

Applying learned principles essay question:

Applying the previously learned principles of bioethics—beneficence (of benefit to the patient), nonmaleficence (doing no harm), justice (fairness), and autonomy (the right to make one's own decisions)—is it ethical for people to refuse vaccinations?

Expressing your opinion essay question:

In your opinion, should all cities provide varied forms of public transportation systems? Why or why not?

Step 2: Identify the keywords.

If you can look closely at the language used in the essay question, you will know what your instructor is asking of you. Keywords Words that are important to understanding the meaning of a passage or reading. like state and list indicate that you should summarize material while criticize or thoughts suggest that you should express your opinion.

Step 3: Identify the essay structure.

Once you have identified the question type and keywords, you will understand how to identify the type of essay you need to write. For example, if you are asked to discuss the consequences of a situation, you should write an essay that looks into the effects of that situation, so you might choose to write a cause and effect essay An examination of the relationship between why and/or how something happened. Causes, which are usually events or actions, lead to effects, or the consequences of those causes. . Other types of essay structures include definition A writing that explains a term or concept using a variety of techniques such as research, statistics, historical and popular references, comparisons, abstractions, and other ideas. , compare and contrast A written discussion of both the similarities and differences between people, objects, or ideas. This type of essay shows how things are alike in some ways (compare) as well as how they are different in other ways (contrast). , analysis To analyze is to make a thoughtful and detailed study of something. An analysis is the end result of analyzing. , and argument/persuasion A writing that takes a position for or against something and tries to convince the reader to accept the same view. Also called a persuasion essay. .

Step 4: Develop your thesis statement.

Finally, develop your thesis statement. Consider using wording from the question in your thesis. For example, if the essay question reads, "Outline the stages of mitosis," your thesis might begin, "There are six stages in mitosis..."

Below is a chart that outlines the four major question types, the possible keywords used in the prompts, the corresponding organizational structure, and sample prompts and thesis statements.

One of the most necessary and vital skills learned in college courses is how to decipher To figure out something confusing or complicated. writing assignments. Unless you understand what the assignment is asking of you, it is difficult to know where to begin, how to organize your thoughts and materials, and how to come up with a thoughtful, concise Describes writing that only uses words that are necessary for clarity, meaning, and interest. , and accurate thesis statement.

This skill also applies to the professional work environment. Regardless of what type of work you may choose to pursue, it is likely that at some point a future boss will provide you with a written assignment. Perhaps the task will be to summarize the pros and cons of the current workplace policy on cell phone usage. Or maybe you will be asked to write a persuasion essay regarding the selection of one or more different project proposals. No matter what form the assignment takes, being able to utilize and transfer the analysis and writing skills you develop in college is very useful in the workplace.

Below are examples of a number of prompts for essay assignments. Note the question type, which essay structure is most appropriate for each prompt, and a possible thesis statement for each prompt.

  • What are patents? How do they differ from trademarks and copyrights? Briefly explain and compare the concepts, citing examples of each.

This is an example of an explaining relationships essay question. The words that signal this structure are explain and compare . Further, when a question asks you to look at two or more concepts and compare them, it indicates some kind of relationship you are expected to explore. In this case, it is the relationship between patents, trademarks, and copyrights and more specifically, how they are different. A compare/contrast essay would be the appropriate essay structure for this prompt.

A suitable thesis for this prompt could be: Patents, trademarks, and copyrights all serve to protect the property of inventors; however, the concepts differ in terms of what kind of property they protect and the duration of that protection.

  • Applying the principles learned over the course of the semester, define corporate social responsibility and explain how it plays out in today's business world.

This is an example of an applying learned principles essay question. The phrase applying the principles learned over the course of the semester signals that you are being asked to take previously studied material and apply it to a specific issue or environment. An analysis essay would be the appropriate essay structure for this prompt.

A suitable thesis for this prompt could be: Corporations have an obligation to go beyond turning a profit and boosting the economy. Corporations are encouraged to be socially responsible by taking into account how decisions impact human beings, communities, and the environment.

  • Do pharmaceutical companies have an obligation to provide consumers with a list of every single possible side effect of each manufactured drug and/or device? Why or why not?

This is an example of an expressing your opinion essay question. It is the kind of question that may or may not require you to refer to citations A reference within a text to an outside source of ideas, quotes, or information. Citations can be placed within sentences or in a separate works cited or reference section, as specified by the style guide in use. , learned materials, or texts. It also concludes with the question, "Why or why not?" indicating that this is an issue for you to explore based on your own thoughts, feelings, and ideas. Also, there is likely no "correct answer" to the question. A persuasion essay would be the appropriate essay structure for this prompt.

A suitable thesis for this prompt could be: Pharmaceutical companies should be required to disclose every single possible side effect of every drug and device they manufacture. Consumers have the right to know all risks and dangers associated with a medication or procedure so they can make informed decisions about their own health care.

  • Briefly summarize the plot of A Streetcar Named Desire by Tennessee Williams.

This is an example of a summarizing essay question. You can recognize this because the question directly asks you to summarize the plot of the author's play. A summary essay would be the appropriate essay structure for this prompt.

A suitable thesis for this prompt could be: A Streetcar Named Desire by Tennessee Williams is the tale of two sisters and their troubled relationships with the men in their lives.

Below are a number of prompts for essay assignments. Identify the question type and the essay structure that is most appropriate for each prompt. Then, develop a suitable thesis for each prompt.

  • Should free healthcare be provided for all Americans? Why or why not?

Expressing your opinion

The use of the word should and the question, Why or why not? , signal a debatable issue, i.e., one that is based on your own thoughts, ideas, and opinions.

Persuasion essay

Sample Answer

Although the cost of healthcare in this country is astounding, leaving many people without the coverage and treatments they so desperately need, I do not think healthcare should be provided for free for all Americans because there is also a percentage of the population that can more than afford to cover their own healthcare costs.

  • What is whistleblowing? Summarize the issue, providing an example from today's popular media.

Summarizing

The word summarize signals this categorization.

Summary essay

Whistleblowing, or the practice of an employee exposing unethical or illegal corporate conduct, has received much media attention with the case of WikiLeaks and Julian Assange.

  • Compare and contrast the benefits of working as a salaried employee versus an hourly employee.

Explaining relationships

The phrase compare and contrast and the setting forth of two concepts in relationship to one another signal this.

Compare/contrast

While salaried employees typically enjoy medical and dental benefits, a greater degree of job security, and mobility within an organization, hourly employees are offered increased schedule flexibility, the ability to work more than one job, and the potential for earning overtime pay.

  • Shakespeare's Romeo and Juliet is a love story and a tragedy. Explain these categorizations, using examples from the text.

Applying learned principles

The word explain indicates the need to analyze the subject. The phrasing of the question implies that you have read the play. It is prompting you to use your knowledge of and actual language from Romeo and Juliet to explore the idea that the story can be both tragic and romantic.

Analysis essay

Although most film productions of Romeo and Juliet lean toward romance genre, it is actually a tragedy of epic proportions. Certainly there is love—requited and unrequited—but it all ends in heartache and death.

Before digging into the outlining and writing of any assignment, I will make sure that I understand the question I am being prompted to answer. Examining the keywords will help me with this. After considering the four types of essay questions and determining which is most suitable, I will then decide the best way to organize my writing, and then write my thesis statement.

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3.9: Structure in Literary Essays

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  • 1. Multiple Choice Edit 30 seconds 1 pt How many paragraphs is a basic academic essay expected to have? 3 4 5 52
  • 2. Multiple Choice Edit 30 seconds 1 pt True or False? When a student is more comfortable with essay structure, his or her essays may be more than five paragraphs. True False
  • 3. Multiple Choice Edit 30 seconds 1 pt What is the first component of an essay introduction? Background Thesis Hook Topic Sentence
  • 4. Multiple Choice Edit 2 minutes 1 pt Where should you share the thesis (claim) for the first time in an essay? At the beginning of the essay At the end of the introduction In your first body paragraph In your conclusion
  • 5. Multiple Choice Edit 30 seconds 1 pt What is the purpose of topic sentences (located in body paragraphs)? to tell what the essay is about to tell what the paragraph is about to ask important questions of the reader to make the author sound smart
  • 6. Multiple Choice Edit 2 minutes 1 pt Which of the following is necessary and expected in each body paragraph of an academic essay?  rephrased thesis a concluding sentence evidence first person pronouns
  • 7. Multiple Choice Edit 30 seconds 1 pt What are the two paragraphs where you should put your thesis? Introduction and Body Paragraph #1 Introduction and Conclusion Body Paragraph #1 & #2 You only need to state it once.
  • 8. Multiple Choice Edit 30 seconds 1 pt Typically, what should you do in your conclusion after you restate the thesis? Summarize every detail of your whole essay Summarize your major points Demand the reader agree with you Leave your reader thinking
  • 9. Multiple Choice Edit 30 seconds 1 pt "I look to a day when people will not be judged by the color of their skin, but by the content of their character" (King). The previous statement is an example of which type of evidence? paraphrase direct quote summary
  • 10. Multiple Choice Edit 30 seconds 1 pt One day, judging people on their looks will not tolerated; rather, opinions will be based solely on people's actions (King). The previous statement is an example of which type of evidence? paraphrase direct quote summary
  • 11. Multiple Choice Edit 30 seconds 1 pt A person's race should not matter (King). The previous statement is an example of which type of evidence? paraphrase direct quote summary
  • 12. Multiple Choice Edit 30 seconds 1 pt What type of ending should an essay conclusion have? It should leave the reader thinking about... how s/he will never get that time back $ Make bank by publishing! $$ how the topic applies to him/her, and/or future possibilites what a genius the writer is
  • 13. Multiple Choice Edit 30 seconds 1 pt True or false? A relevant, correctly capitalized and centered title IS an essay expectation and requirement. True False

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COMMENTS

  1. Essay Structure 10 Flashcards

    A one-sentence statement that sums up the major ideas of a text. claim. the writer's position on an issue or problem supported by evidence. thesis statement. a statement or sentence that states the purpose of a paper or essay. topic sentence. A sentence that expresses the main idea of the paragraph in which it occurs. Introduction.

  2. Essay Structure 10 Flashcards

    The first paragraph of an essay in which a background of the theme is given in an attention-grabbing way. Concluding Paragraph. paragraph which summarizes the information given in the preceding paragraphs. central idea. The most important point (or main idea) the author makes. excerpt.

  3. Essay Structure

    Start studying Essay Structure - English 10. Learn vocabulary, terms, and more with flashcards, games, and other study tools.

  4. 6.15: Common Essay Structures

    Topic sentence outlining second cause or effect. Sentences giving explanations and providing evidence to back topic sentence. Concluding sentence - linking to the next paragraph. Following body paragraphs. These follow the same structure for as many causes or effects as you need to outline. Conclusion.

  5. How to Structure an Essay

    The basic structure of an essay always consists of an introduction, a body, and a conclusion. But for many students, the most difficult part of structuring an essay is deciding how to organize information within the body. This article provides useful templates and tips to help you outline your essay, make decisions about your structure, and ...

  6. Basic Essay Structure

    Basic Essay Structure. Essays written for an academic audience follow a structure with which you are likely familiar: Intro, Body, Conclusion. Here is a general overview of what each of those sections "does" in the larger essay. Be aware, however, that certain assignments and certain professors may ask for additional content or require ...

  7. 8.3: Determining an Effective Essay Structure

    In each of the essays mentioned above, the first point of discussion helps to set up the paper. These writers work to draw in and orient the reader, first with the introduction and then, further, in the second body paragraph. Conversely, the final point of the paper's body should be one that helps to "clinch" the paper's argument or end ...

  8. Example of a Great Essay

    The structure of an essay is divided into an introduction that presents your topic and thesis statement, a body containing your in-depth analysis and arguments, and a conclusion wrapping up your ideas. The structure of the body is flexible, but you should always spend some time thinking about how you can organize your essay to best serve your ...

  9. 4.4: Organically Structured Essays

    An organically structured argument is a beautiful thing. For one, it gives a paper authentic momentum. The first paragraph doesn't just start with some broad, vague statement; every sentence is crucial for setting up the thesis. The body paragraphs build on one another, moving through each step of the logical chain.

  10. Organization and Structure

    Organization and Structure. There is no single organizational pattern that works well for all writing across all disciplines; rather, organization depends on what you're writing, who you're writing it for, and where your writing will be read. In order to communicate your ideas, you'll need to use a logical and consistent organizational ...

  11. How to Write an Expository Essay

    An expository essay should take an objective approach: It isn't about your personal opinions or experiences. Instead, your goal is to provide an informative and balanced explanation of your topic. Avoid using the first or second person ("I" or "you"). The structure of your expository essay will vary according to the scope of your ...

  12. PDF Essay Structure The Five-Paragraph Essay Structure

    In writing, following the correct essay structure is an important step in constructing a well-organized and successful essay. As a beginning step in the writing process, it is important to know the type of essay that will be developed and determine which structure would work best for its development. The correct structure will allow the reader ...

  13. NROC Developmental English Foundations

    Step 2: Identify the keywords. If you can look closely at the language used in the essay question, you will know what your instructor is asking of you. Keywords like state and list indicate that you should summarize material while criticize or thoughts suggest that you should express your opinion. Step 3: Identify the essay structure.

  14. 3.9: Structure in Literary Essays

    3.9: Structure in Literary Essays is shared under a not declared license and was authored, remixed, and/or curated by LibreTexts. Back to top 3.8: Creating an Effective Style

  15. PDF Parts of an essay worksheet

    Give each student a copy of the four-page worksheet. Students begin by answering three true or false statements to review some basic essay structure knowledge. Exercise A - Answer key. False. True. False. True. Next, students match essay writing terms to their correct definitions. Exercise B - Answer key.

  16. essay structure 10 quizlet

    An essay containing 200 words is limited in length, requiring between three and five paragraphs depending on the sentence structure and vocabulary used. An essay is a short piece of writing about a particular topic.... Commentary essays follow a basic structure of an introduction, followed by a comments section and wrapped up with a conclusion.

  17. Essay Structure

    1. Multiple Choice. 30 seconds. 1 pt. How many paragraphs is a basic academic essay expected to have? 3. 4. 5. 52.