Basic Essay Format
A basic essay consists of three main
parts: introduction, body, and conclusion. Following this format will help you write
and organize an essay. However, flexibility is important. While keeping this
basic essay format in mind, let the topic and specific assignment guide the
writing and organization.
Parts of an Essay
Introduction
The introduction guides your reader
into the paper by introducing the topic. It should begin with a hook that
catches the reader’s interest. This hook could be a quote, an analogy, a
question, etc. After getting the reader’s attention, the introduction should give
some background information on the topic. The ideas within the introduction should
be general enough for the reader to understand the main claim and gradually become
more specific to lead into the thesis statement. (See the Introductions handout
for further information.)
Thesis Statement
The thesis statement concisely
states the main idea or argument of the essay, sets limits on the topic, and can
indicate the organization of the essay. The thesis works as a road map for the
entire essay, showing the readers what you have to say and which main points you
will use to support your ideas.
Body
The body of the essay supports the
main points presented in the thesis. Each point is developed by one or more
paragraphs and supported with specific details. These details can include
support from research and experiences, depending on the assignment. In addition
to this support, the author’s own analysis and discussion of the topic ties
ideas together and draws conclusions that support the thesis. Refer to “Parts
of a Paragraph” below for further information on writing effective body
paragraphs.
Transitions
Transitions connect paragraphs to
each other and to the thesis. They are used within and between paragraphs to
help the paper flow from one topic to the next. These transitions can be one or
two words (“first,” “next,” “in addition,” etc.) or one or two sentences that
bring the reader to the next main point. The topic sentence of a paragraph
often serves as a transition. (See the Transitions handout for further information.)
Conclusion
The conclusion brings together all
the main points of the essay. It refers back to the thesis statement and leaves
readers with a final thought and sense of closure by resolving any ideas
brought up in the essay. It may also address the implications of the argument. In
the conclusion, new topics or ideas that were not developed in the paper should
not be introduced. (See the Conclusions handout for further information.)
Citations
If your paper incorporates research,
be sure to give credit to each source using in-text citations and a Works Cited/References/Bibliography
page.Refer to the MLA Format, APA Format,
or Turabian Format handout for help with this.
Gourav H Bais
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Source:-UVUWritingCenter, Pic Source Google
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