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Essay structure is the overall organization of ideas in writing. It is a framework that helps students to sort out their ideas and express them clearly. A clear essay structure is essential to ensure a logical flow of arguments, which in turn, makes it easier for readers to follow the discussion.

Understanding how to structure an essay is crucial to communicate your arguments effectively. In this article, we'll guide you through various essay structure examples and offer practical tips to help you structure your essay effortlessly.

By having a good grasp of essay structure, you can improve your writing by creating essays that are both organized and captivating, leaving a lasting impact on your readers.

What Is an Essay Structure?

A structure of an essay serves as a roadmap that directs how ideas are arranged and communicated within all parts of an essay to convey a message or argument in a clear, effective manner.

In essence, an essay structure definition refers to your writing plan that generally consists of an introduction, body, and conclusion.

An introduction establishes the tone and purpose of your writing. It includes a thesis statement, which is the central idea to be explored.

The body presents evidence, analysis, and supporting details to back up the thesis statement.

Finally, the conclusion provides a summary of key points by offering a fresh perspective on the thesis presented throughout the essay.

Making sure that each section of your work is well-organized and flows smoothly is essential in creating an effective structure.

Essay Structure Purpose

The goal of essay structure is to organize and present ideas consistently. A clear and systematic essay writing structure ensures that ideas are communicated in a straightforward and engaging manner.

This holds readers’ attention and persuades them toward the intended message. Ultimately, a strong structure of an essay elevates the quality of writing by promoting clarity, conciseness, and coherence.

Basic Essay Structure: Main Parts of an Essay

Basic structure of an essay comprises three parts:

•  Introduction

The introduction sets the stage by providing an opening statement, background information, and a thesis statement, which serves as the central argument or key point.

The body of an essay consists of multiple paragraphs that present supporting ideas or arguments, each backed up by evidence and analysis to strengthen your viewpoint.

Finally, in an essay basic structure, the conclusion summarizes main points, providing a unique outlook on your thesis statement.

These 3 parts of an essay are crucial for creating an effective work, therefore all of them will be described below.

Introduction 

The introduction is the first part of an essay structure designed to introduce the topic by grabbing readers’ attention. The main purpose of an introduction is to: 

• Hook your audience
• Provide background information
• Establish the tone and focus
• Introduce a thesis statement.

Your thesis statement is where you present your central argument or key ideas. It must be concise, engaging, as well as, give readers an idea of what to expect in the essay.

Introduction is essential for creating a strong first impression by setting the stage for a successful essay. It should be in proportion to the essay length , with longer papers needing more detailed introductions.

>> Read more: How to Start an Essay Introduction

Thesis Statement

A thesis statement is a key argument or primary concept that an essay is built upon. It is typically presented in the introduction of an essay structure and serves as a roadmap for the rest of your writing.

A proper structure of a good essay requires a strong, concise thesis statement because it helps to stay focused and organized while presenting a clear argument to a reader. 

It is important to ensure that the thesis statement is relevant, specific, and debatable to make an essay more engaging.

All content in your essay must directly relate to your thesis statement. Every paragraph should contribute to your overall argument as well as reinforce your central idea. Extraneous information has the potential to distract your reader or undermine the impact of your essay. It is, therefore, essential to ensure that each section is closely linked to your thesis.

Body Paragraphs

Body paragraphs are critical to a good essay structure as they provide the main section where you present your argument or analysis. 

To create an effective body paragraph, it's crucial to begin with a clear topic sentence that introduces the main idea or argument. The paragraph must include supporting evidence, analysis, along with explanations that add weight to the topic sentence. 

An effective body paragraph should not only be well-organized but also transition seamlessly to next paragraph. Here’s what a basic body paragraph structure should include: 

• Topic sentence
• Supporting evidence
• Smooth transitions.

Effective essay body paragraphs should also:

• Use strong, varied sentence structures
• Avoid repetition
• Include proper citations to support the evidence presented.

While writing an essay structure, you should remember that body paragraphs are critical for developing a strong and persuasive rough draft .

Arranging your arguments in an essay requires strategic progression starting from the simplest claim to the most complex one. This means starting with the most basic, straightforward points and gradually building up to more intricate and complicated arguments. By doing this, you can guide your reader through your thought process by presenting a logical and coherent argument.

Conclusion marks the end of an essay with a summary of main points and a restatement of a thesis presented earlier.

It is a critical part in the structure of an essay as it offers closure to argument and strengthens the significance of main idea presented. Furthermore, a carefully crafted conclusion should make a strong impact on a reader by providing insights or recommendations for future research.

Your conclusion should be brief and concise. Avoid introducing new ideas or evidence that may distract from your main argument. 

Wrapping up, a conclusion is a vital component among essay parts, which summarizes all central ideas together with arguments while delivering a powerful final message to readers. You may use our Paraphrase Tool if you need to rephrase a sentence or a whole section quickly. 

>> Read more: How to Write a Conclusion For an Essay

Essay Structure Types

Essay structures refer to different organizational patterns used in writing an essay. Here are some of the most common types of  an essay structure used to convey ideas and arguments effectively:

• Chronological
• Cause and effect
• Compare and contrast
• Problem-solution.

Each essay structure has its characteristics and is suitable for specific types of essays. 

Choosing the right structure can help you convey your ideas to readers.

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Chronological Essay Structure

The chronological essay structure arranges essay parts in order of time, presenting information in a sequence it occurred. It is often used when writing about historical events or recounting personal experiences. A chronological approach is common in expository writing or narrative essay .

A template for this type of essay layout usually includes an introduction that sets the context and explains an essay's purpose. The body paragraphs then follow a logical order reflecting the chronology of all discussed events.

When using this structure type, it is essential to ensure that all events are presented logically.

Overall, the chronological essay structure is an effective way of presenting information in a clear, organized manner.

Chronological Essay Structure Template

• Context and background information
• Purpose and thesis statement
• Event or situation in chronological order
• Supporting evidence or details
• Next event or situation in chronological order
• Summarize key points
• Final reflection or insight

Chronological Structure of an Essay Example

• A brief overview of internet and its importance
• Thesis statement: This essay will explore the history of internet, from its origins to its current state.
• Early stages of internet, including its development by the US government
• ARPANET and email development
• Emergence of the World Wide Web as a platform for information sharing
• Development of HTML and launch of the first web browser
• Current state of internet, including its widespread use together with impact on society
• The rise of social media and mobile technology
• Recap of the history of internet and its significance
• Discussion of potential future developments along with their implications

Compare and Contrast Structure

The compare and contrast essay structure is an organization technique that seeks to clarify both similarities and differences among two or more subjects.

This essay structure can be used for analyzing different types of literature, historical events, or scientific phenomena.

There are primarily two ways to organize a compare and contrast essay :

• Alternating method
• Block method.

The alternating method  involves discussing similarities and differences between two subjects in a structured and concise pattern. Each paragraph focuses on a specific aspect of comparison and contrast. For example, a paragraph may discuss a parallel between two subjects, while the following paragraph may discuss a difference. 

The block method involves discussing one subject's similarities and differences before moving on to the next. 

Both approaches have advantages and disadvantages.  Therefore, your choice of method depends on the specific purpose of your writing as well as your preference.

Alternating Essay Structure

The alternating essay structure is a method of organizing an essay where you compare two or more topics by alternating between them in each paragraph.

Each paragraph discusses a specific aspect or point of comparison/contrast between two topics. 

The alternating structure is useful for presenting a balanced argument by highlighting both similarities and differences between two topics being compared. 

This method helps to keep readers engaged. It allows a clear and organized presentation of ideas.

Alternating Essay Structure Template

• Hook statement
• Brief background information
• Thesis statement
• Significance
• Restate thesis statement
• Summarize all main points
• Concluding thoughts or future implications

Alternating Essay Structure Example

• Hook and background information about living in a city and living in a rural area
• Thesis statement: While both living in a city and living in a rural area have their advantages and disadvantages, the best choice for an individual depends on their lifestyle preferences and needs.
• City offers a better access to essential services
• Living in a rural area offers a quieter, more natural environment
• Cities offer more job opportunities
• Rural areas often have fewer but may offer opportunities in agriculture or natural resource industries
• Living in a city offers more diverse leisure and entertainment options
• Rural area offers more opportunities for outdoor activities and connection to nature
• The decision to live in a city or rural area depends on an individual's personal preferences and needs
• As technology advances and remote work becomes more common, the traditional city vs. rural divide may become less stark

Block Essay Structure

The block essay structure is an effective way to organize the structure for an essay.

It presents information about a particular topic in a single block, with each block containing an individual discussion point.

This structure is ideal for comparing and contrasting two topics, making it easier for readers to understand their differences and similarities. Discussing one topic in detail before moving on to the next, or alternating between them throughout, creates a clear as well as dynamic structure.

Block Essay Structure Template

• A brief overview of a topic
• Main idea and analysis
• Contrasting idea and analysis
• Summarize key points for Subject 1
• Summarize key points for Subject 2
• Final thoughts and call to action

Example of a Block Essay Structure

• The food we eat has a profound impact on our health and well-being
• Thesis statement: While fast food is a convenient and quick option, healthy eating is essential for maintaining good health and preventing chronic diseases.
• Appeal of fast food as a quick option and variety
• Low nutritional value
• Perceived low cost of fast food
• Hidden costs in terms of health consequences
• Has all essential nutrients for good health
• Lower availability of healthy food options in low-income areas
• The cost is higher
• Better option in the long run
• While fast food is convenient and quick, it can be detrimental to our health, and it is important to make informed choices about our diets
• By making a conscious effort to choose healthy food options, we can take control of our health and lead happier, more fulfilling lives

Problems-Methods-Solutions Structure 

The problems-methods-solutions essay structure helps writers organize their thoughts into a cohesive essay. 

This format is designed to break down a problem and solution essay into three sections, each focusing on a specific element.

The first section is where you outline all issues or challenges being addressed. The second section is where you discuss various approaches or methods to address these problems. In your final section, present a solution or series of solutions to the problems identified in the Problems section. 

Using this structure, you can present a clear and concise argument while providing a well-reasoned solution.

Problems-Methods-Solutions Structure Template

• Briefly introduce the problem/topic
• Identify the problems related to your topic
• Use supporting evidence, examples, statistics
• Discuss main methods or approaches used before to address the problems
• Discuss the potential solutions or approaches
• Summarize all main points of your essay
• Restate your thesis statement
• Provide final thoughts or recommendations

Note that this is a general template and can be adapted to fit a specific topic.

Problems-Methods-Solutions Structure Example

• Briefly introduce the problem of climate change
• Causes and effects of climate change
• Thesis statement: This essay will examine the problems related to climate change, the methods used to address the issue, along with potential solutions to mitigate its effects.
• Rising temperatures, sea-level rise, as well as extreme weather events
• IPCC reports or NASA data
• Kyoto Protocol, carbon taxes, and renewable energy development
• Evaluation of the effectiveness of these methods
• Transitioning to renewable energy sources, implementing carbon capture and storage technologies, and adopting sustainable land use practices
• Statistics on the impact of implementing proposed solutions
• Importance and urgency of addressing climate change
• Need for collective action and policy changes to address the issue

Signposting to Clarify Essay Structure

Signposting is the process of using clear and concise language to guide readers through the structure of an essay. It will help you to structure your essay effectively by clarifying key points, arguments, and transitions between different parts of an essay. 

By using signposting, you can make your works more organized and easy to follow. Signposting also ensures that your piece has a clear structure and helps readers to understand your thought process.

Overview of an Essay

An overview serves as a summary or outline of all key points covered in your academic writing. As a part of the structure of essay writing it functions as a roadmap for readers to follow along with the structure and progression of your piece.

When starting to write an essay, it is essential to provide an overview of the structure.

An overview allows readers to understand the purpose and scope of an essay and the key arguments and evidence that will be presented. Mostly it is written in present tense.

Essay Overview Example

This essay examines the global impact of local wars, exploring their causes and key examples. It discusses how these conflicts can have far-reaching economic, political, and social consequences. It concludes by suggesting steps to mitigate their impact by preventing escalation into larger global conflicts. Also, it highlights the importance of understanding the connections between seemingly isolated conflicts and the broader international context.

Transition Words

Transition words play a vital role in creating a coherent and well-structured essay, seamlessly linking different parts of the essay together by ensuring a smooth and logical flow of ideas. 

Transition words can also create a logical structure within an essay, guiding readers through the argument and making your overall message clearer.

Here is a list of some common transition words:

• Additionally
• Furthermore
• In addition

By using transition words effectively, you can improve the clarity and coherence of your writing, making it easier for readers to follow and understand their ideas.

Essay Structure Writing Tips

Here are a few actionable tips that will help you organize your writing.

• To structure your essay in a simple and effective manner, start by understanding the three parts of an essay: introduction, body, and conclusion. Each part of essay writing serves a specific purpose and can help you organize your ideas.
• Consider different structures of an essay, like the chronological, cause and effect, compare and contrast, and problem-solution, to choose the best fit for your topic.
• Utilize an essay template to keep your writing structured and focused. This can include templates for each part of the essay, such as an introduction template, body paragraph template, and a conclusion template.
• Use transitional words and phrases to connect different structures of an essay along with all parts of your writing, such as "however," "in addition," and "furthermore." This will help to create a cohesive flow of ideas throughout your essay.
• Keep your language clear and concise, avoiding unnecessary jargon or complicated phrasing. This can help to ensure that your writing is accessible and effective.
• Finally, review and revise your essay for clarity and coherence, paying close attention to different parts of essay writing and the structures of an essay. This will help to ensure that your essay is well-organized and effectively communicates your ideas.

Essay Structure Checklist

• checkbox The introduction includes a clear thesis statement that presents my essay's main argument.
• checkbox The body paragraphs are organized logically and follow a clear and consistent structure.
• checkbox There is a topic sentence at the beginning of each body paragraph that relates to the thesis statement.
• checkbox The body paragraphs provide supporting evidence and examples to back up the main argument.
• checkbox There are clear and smooth transitions between each paragraph and section.
• checkbox The conclusion summarizes all main points of my essay and restates the thesis in a meaningful way.
• checkbox I have proofread my essay to ensure it is free of grammar and spelling errors.
• checkbox I have followed the essay structure format as my professor or instructor requires.
• checkbox I have used an essay framework or template to help me organize my thoughts and ideas.
• checkbox I have received feedback from peers, tutors, or instructors and made necessary revisions.

This essay structure checklist ensures that your essay is well-organized, easy to follow, and effectively communicates your main argument.

Bottom Line on Essay Structure Writing

How an essay should look is an essential aspect of effective essay writing. Different structures and methods can organize an essay logically and coherently. In addition, using an example of essay structure can help to easily create a well-structured essay.

Understanding the structure of writing an essay is essential for creating a well-organized and coherent piece of writing.Using tips and an example for essay structure, you can enhance your writing skills and produce a clear and concise essay. 

Your next steps will involve creating an outline for an essay and composing your own piece. Make sure to check our blog on how to write an essay to complete this assignment with ease.

Our professional writing service can help! Buy an essay paper from our experts to receive quality results quickly.

Daniel Howard is an Essay Writing guru. He helps students create essays that will strike a chord with the readers.

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5 Ways to Structure Your College Essay

Bonus Material: 30 College Essays That Worked

A common characteristic of a successful college essay is its capacity to tell a story in a descriptive, engaging way.

Yet even if you’ve reviewed those essay prompts and chosen the right college essay topic , how can you make sure that your essay has this quality?

The secret lies in your essay’s structure. We encourage all of our college essay students to create an outline of their essays prior to writing a first draft, and we do this for a reason: the right structure can ensure you’re telling your story in a compelling fashion.

Great structure can also ensure that your essay is well-written, authentic, and introspective, all qualities of successful personal statements .

It can be tough to nail down a college essay structure after you’ve chosen your topic, especially if you just don’t know where to start. That’s why we wrote this post!

We reviewed a wide range of successful essays and boiled them down to 5 sample structures. While it’s possible to choose any  structure out there to suit your essay topic, these are the most common and a great starting place for first-time essay writers.

We also give you access to 30 free college essays that worked–that is, they earned their writers Ivy League acceptance! Grab these below.

Download 30 College Essays That Worked

Here’s what we cover:

• The Setback
• Compare & Contrast
• The Discovery Format
• The Evolution Essay
• Bonus : 30 College Essays That Worked

The College Essay Structure: 5 Sample Structures

This list of sample college essay structures is by no means comprehensive. But the majority of the essays we see do fit these molds, and often successfully.

1. The Setback

This is one of the most straightforward and traditional college essay structures. It is ideal for students who wish to discuss

• a challenge they’ve overcome
• an experience that didn’t go as expected
• and/or their response to a specific obstacle.

While Setback essays can take a number of approaches, their structure generally boils down to the following:

What’s great about the Setback structure is its capacity to encourage introspection. This is what admissions officers are looking for –your ability to deeply reflect on whatever it is you’re discussing, and in a way that adds value to your overall application.

With this structure, students should focus less on the setback itself and more  on what they learned or took away from this experience.

In her essay that utilizes the Setback structure, Erica describes her twelve-year-old ambition to write and publish a novel. When her manuscript comes back from her father’s office covered in red, she is heartbroken at first. Yet this precipitates valuable realizations about what it actually means to achieve your dreams, which she describes in her conclusion:

Publishing that first draft would have been a horrible embarrassment that would have haunted me for the rest of my life. Over the past half-decade, I’ve been able to explore my own literary voice, and develop a truly original work that I will be proud to display. This experience taught me that “following your dreams” requires more than just wishing upon a star. It takes sacrifice, persistence, and grueling work to turn fantasy into reality.

Amanda also follows the Setback structure in her essay, which describes an unexpected encounter during a volunteering experience. Accustomed to working with Joey, a well-mannered special needs child, Amanda struggles to work with Robyn, a child prone to anger and aggression.

Yet, over time, Amanda makes some important realizations about her relationship to compassion and her capacity for empathy, as described in her conclusion:

Was I sincerely an empathetic person if I could only be so when it was easy? Was I truly compassionate because others thought I was? Complacency does not equate with compassion; true empathy is not an ephemeral trait that one possesses only when it suits him or her – when it doesn’t require him or her to try.

Both of these essays–Erica’s and Amanda’s–describe a setback and the writer’s specific response to this setback, often in the context of values, perspective, and/or beliefs. We finish the essays with a nuanced understanding of that writer’s character as a result of this setback and their response to it.

2. The Thesis

Many high school students are familiar with thesis statements and their value in the context of academic writing. While college essays differ significantly from academic essays, students can use the Thesis structure to great success to structure their ideas.

This is an ideal structure to use if your essay describes

• a specific belief or characteristic not necessarily framed through an experience
• your stance on an issue
• and/or a frank viewpoint on something that’s important to you.

Essays that adhere to the Thesis format generally follow this structure:

As we’ve mentioned before, students who use this structure should focus  less  on the issue at hand and  more  about what this says about them as a person (the “why” of the thesis statement).

In her essay that utilizes the Thesis structure, Elizabeth  begins with a declarative thesis about a specific characteristic and spends the rest of the essay elaborating upon this characteristic and its meaning in her life:

I am an aspiring hot sauce sommelier. Ever since I was a child, I have been in search for all that is spicy. 

Harry’s essay begins with his succinct perspective on the notion of “common values,” which he elaborates in a structured fashion throughout the next few paragraphs:

Establishing a cohesive society where common values are shared is increasingly difficult in multi-faith, globalised societies such as the one I’m part of in the UK. My studies in politics and philosophy have made me more sensitive to this problem and as I have a much larger number of friends from different ethnic backgrounds than my parents and the previous generation, I realise that the friction created by the presence of different ethnic and social groups is not going to disappear anytime soon.

James describes his relationship to rowing in an essay that follows the Thesis structure, beginning with a clear statement about this relationship and elaborating upon this throughout the essay’s body:

Simply put, my place of inner peace is the seat of that 50 foot sliver of carbon and kevlar called a rowing shell, cutting through the water in the middle of a race. This is the one situation in which I find myself to be completely comfortable; the one environment in which I feel most empowered, at home, and content, despite it being quite at odds with the conventional definition of the word “comfortable”.  

Notice how these three essays are very distinct, despite following the same structure! This proves the Thesis format’s versatility.

3. Compare & Contrast

A more niche college essay structure, the Compare & Contrast structure is ideal for students who choose to write about something in comparison  with something else. Students can use this structure to:

• contrast their perspective(s) with another’s
• or compare two meaningful experiences, individuals, actions, and/or values

Typically, Compare & Contrast essays incorporate the following general structure, although this can be quite flexible:

Shanaz uses this structure in her essay’s application of the quote “You know nothing, Jon Snow” to her own life. Her comparisons operate at the sentence level, elucidating her understanding of what it means to be “ignorant”:

Like Jon Snow, I’ve never lived a day in another person’s shoes. Fewer than three meals a day. No extra blanket during record-breaking winter cold. No clean water. I may be parched after an intense practice, but I know nothing of poverty. Losing a loved one overseas. Being forced to leave your home. Coups d’état and dictatorial governments. I battle with my peers during class discussions, but I know nothing of war. Denial of education. Denial of religion. Denial of speech. I have an endless list of freedoms, and I know nothing of oppression.

These comparisons are powerful in their ability to magnify the extent of Shanaz’s self-professed ignorance, which also lends the essay a distinct tone of authenticity. 

4. The Discovery Structure

Essays that follow the Discovery structure generally track a specific moment of self-discovery. They are ideal for students writing an essay that focuses largely on:

• an important, self-shaping experience
• identity (cultural, social, etc.)
• a valuable moment of self-reflection or understanding

The Discovery structure differs from the Setback structure in that it doesn’t necessarily  involve a concrete challenge or setback. These essays tend to work with broader themes and incorporate a  lot  of self-reflection. That’s why they can be so successful from an admissions officer’s perspective.

Here’s what the Discovery structure generally looks like:

In her essay, Aja describes a time when she deeply questions her religious faith, testing her beliefs as she performs lab experiments during a science summer program:

My experiment eventually went beyond the scientific approach, as I questioned in my thoughts. I had to determine what my beliefs meant to me, to find my own answer. I could not simply interpret results of an experiment, but needed to find my own interpretations.

Aja eventually concludes that “the questions themselves proved my practices were valuable to me, and left me with a stronger commitment to my religious faith than I had before.” In sharing with the reader an important moment of self-reflection, she conveys an intimate portrait of how she engages with truth, both as a scientist and a follower of a specific faith.

5. The Evolution Essay

The Evolution essay structure is ideal for students writing about an experience, belief, or characteristic that isn’t necessarily isolated to a concrete moment in time (like the Setback structure, for example). It is very similar to the Discovery structure, but differs in that it often presents the writer’s evolution in relation to

• a community
• an ongoing experience
• a deeply embedded belief

Here’s what the Evolution structure generally looks like, although it is very flexible:

Jonah utilizes the Evolution structure in describing how he evolves and grows by participating in a specific community: a small group of friends tackling challenging problem sets in the corner of an AP Calculus classroom. Jonah essentially traverses four years in his essay, describing how this community has inspired him to progress as a scholar and instructor:

Yet on every occasion, whether I’m facing the board or with my back to it, whether I’m in the ranks of my peers or addressing my teachers, I feel the same elation. In my friends I see Socrates, Newton, and Steinhardt. There’s no place I would rather be than in their company.

Martin also follows the Evolution structure in his essay that describes the various factors and experiences that have shaped his present identity:

I am who I am today as a result of these experiences and personal challenges. In my short life so far, I have developed my soft-hearted and quiet personality to become more open, creative, and self-assured while preserving my identity. I know more challenges lie ahead, but I am open to those opportunities.

Your College Essay Structure: Next Steps

The 5 college essay structures discussed in this post are not the only  ones out there. Students have a lot of options when it comes to structuring their pieces, and many times the ideal structure will emerge once you’ve chosen the right topic .

It’s also helpful to look at examples of successful essays and pay attention to the structures that they follow. But these examples can be hard to find, and few and far between.

That’s why we compiled 30 college essays that earned their writers acceptance into Ivy League schools. You can download these examples for FREE below.

Kate is a graduate of Princeton University. Over the last decade, Kate has successfully mentored hundreds of students in all aspects of the college admissions process, including the SAT, ACT, and college application essay. 

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How to Structure an Essay

• Writing Essays
• Writing Research Papers
• English Grammar
• Ph.D., Rhetoric and English, University of Georgia
• M.A., Modern English and American Literature, University of Leicester
• B.A., English, State University of New York

If you've been tasked with  writing an essay  for a class assignment, the project might seem daunting. However, your assignment doesn't have to be a hair-pulling, frazzled all-nighter. Think of writing an essay as if you were  making a hamburger . Imagine the parts of a burger: There's a bun (bread) on top and a bun on the bottom. In the middle, you'll find the meat. 

Your introduction is like the top bun announcing the subject, your supporting paragraphs are the beef in the middle, and your conclusion is the bottom bun, supporting everything. The condiments would be the specific  examples  and  illustrations  that can help to  clarify  key points and keep your writing interesting. (Who, after all, would eat a burger composed only of bread and beef?)

Each part needs to be present: A soggy or missing bun would cause your fingers to slip immediately into the beef without being able to hold and enjoy the burger. But if your burger had no beef in the middle, you'd be left with two dry pieces of bread.

The Introduction

Your  introductory paragraphs  introduce the reader to your topic. For example, you might choose to write an essay titled, "Technology Is Changing Our Lives." Start your introduction with a  hook  that captures the reader's attention: "Technology is taking over our lives and changing the world."

After you introduce your topic and draw the reader in, the most important part of your introductory paragraph(s) would be you the main idea, or  thesis . "The Little Seagull Handbook" calls this a statement that introduces your main point, identifying your topic. Your thesis statement could read: "Information technology has revolutionized the way we work."

But, your topic can be more varied and may cover seemingly mundane subjects, such as this opening paragraph from Mary Zeigler's " How to Catch River Crabs ." Zeigler grabs the reader's attention  from the first sentence:

"As a lifelong crabber (that is, one who catches crabs, not a chronic complainer), I can tell you that anyone who has patience and a great love for the river is qualified to join the ranks of crabbers.​"

The final sentences of your introduction, then, would be a mini-outline of what your essay will cover. Don't use an outline form, but explain briefly all the key points you intend to discuss in narrative form.

Supporting Paragraphs

Extending the hamburger essay theme, the  supporting paragraphs  would be beef. These would include well-researched and logical points that support your thesis. The  topic sentence  of each paragraph might serve as the reference points of your mini-outline. The topic  sentence , which is often at the beginning of a  paragraph , states or suggests the main idea (or  topic ) of a paragraph.

Bellevue College in Washington state shows how to write  four different supporting paragraphs on four different topics : a description of a beautiful day; savings and loan and bank failures; the writer's father; and, the writer's joke-playing cousin. Bellevue explains that your supporting paragraphs should provide rich, vivid imagery, or logical and specific supporting details, depending on your topic.

A perfect supporting paragraph for the technology topic, discussed previously, could draw on current events. In its Jan. 20-21, 2018, weekend edition, "The Wall Street Journal" ran an article titled, " Digital Revolution Upends Ad Industry : A Divide Between Old Guard and New Tech Hires."

The article described in searing detail, how one of the world's biggest ad agencies lost a major Mcdonald's advertising account to a relative upstart because the fast-food chain felt the older agency "was not adept enough at using data to quickly produce online ads and target minute slices of its customer base."

The younger, hipper, agency, by contrast, had worked with Facebook Inc. and Alphabet Inc's Google to assemble a team of data experts. You could use this news story to illustrate how technology—and a need for workers who understand it and are able to use it—is taking over the world and is changing entire industries.

The Conclusion

Just as a hamburger needs a durable bottom bun to contain all the ingredients inside, your essay needs a strong conclusion to support and buttress your points. You can also think of it as the closing argument a prosecutor might make in a criminal court case. The closing arguments section of a trial takes place when the prosecution attempts to strengthen the evidence she presented to the jury. Even though the prosecutor likely provided solid and compelling arguments and evidence during the trial, it isn't until the closing arguments that she ties it all together.

In the same way, you'll restate your main points in the conclusion in reverse order of how you listed them in your introduction. Some sources call this an upside-down triangle: The intro was a triangle that was right-side up, where you started with a short, razor sharp point—your hook—which then fanned out slightly to your topic sentence and broadened further with your mini-outline. The conclusion, by contrast, is an upside-down triangle that starts by broadly reviewing the evidence—the points you made in your supporting paragraphs—and then narrows to your topic sentence and a restatement of your hook.

In this way, you've logically explained your points, restated your main idea, and left readers with a zinger that hopefully convinces them of your point of view.

Bullock, Richard. "The Little Seagull Handbook with Exercises." Michal Brody, Francine Weinberg, Third edition, W. W. Norton & Company, December 22, 2016.

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• What Is Expository Writing?
• Paragraph Writing
• Tips on How to Write an Argumentative Essay
• Definition and Examples of Analysis in Composition
• 6 Steps to Writing the Perfect Personal Essay
• What an Essay Is and How to Write One
• How to Help Your 4th Grader Write a Biography
• Examples of Great Introductory Paragraphs
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• Writing a Descriptive Essay

How to Structure an Essay: Tips, Templates & Examples

Writing an essay can be pretty challenging, but with the right structure, it becomes much more manageable. In this guide from the top experts of our essay help service , we’ll explore the essential elements that make up a well-structured essay, helping you organize your thoughts and present your ideas in a clear and effective manner.

What Is the Structure of an Essay?

A well-organized essay generally follows a standard format and comprises three essential parts:

1. Introduction

This is the starting point of your essay, where you set the stage by presenting your topic, providing background information, and articulating your thesis statement.

This is where the core arguments and analysis reside. Each paragraph should focus on a single main point, starting with a topic sentence. All arguments should directly relate to your thesis.

3. Conclusion

This is the last part of your paper that wraps up your main points, elucidates why your argument is significant and leaves the reader with a lasting impression.

Essay Structure: Order of Information

When structuring the body of your essay, consider these principles:

1. Logical Progression

Move from simpler to more complex claims. Begin with widely accepted ideas before introducing more contentious ones.

2. Background Information

Place background information early on, either in the introduction or the beginning of the body.

3. Relevance

Ensure every piece of information directly contributes to your thesis. Eliminate anything that doesn’t serve this purpose.

Essay Structure Template

There are three different approaches to structuring academic essays: chronological, compare-and-contrast, and problems-methods-solutions. Let’s delve into each one below:

1. Chronological Approach

The chronological approach, akin to a cause-and-effect narrative, is ideal for essays detailing a series of events. Here’s a template to guide you:

Introduction

• Thesis statement
• Consequences
• Topic importance
• Closing statement

2. Compare-And-Contrast Approach

For essays comparing and contrasting two or more subjects, choose between the alternating or block method.

1. Alternating Essay Outline:

1st Comparison Point

2nd Comparison Point

3rd Comparison Point

• Synthesis of arguments

2. Block Outline Template:

1st Subject

2nd Subject

• Point 1 (+comparison)
• Point 2 (+comparison)
• Point 3 (+comparison)
• Point 4 (+comparison)

3. Problems-Methods-Solutions Approach

This structure is ideal for essays addressing specific problems. Here’s a template:

• Your approach to solving it
• Definition of the problem
• Importance of the problem
• Previous approaches to tackling the problem
• Why your approach is better
• Application of your approach to the problem
• The solution you arrived at
• Assessment of the solution’s effectiveness
• Implications

Sounds too complicated? Below is a simplified essay structure example for a short essay on the impact of technology on education. It will surely help you get started and feel more confident in organizing your thoughts and ideas.

Simplified Essay Template with Example

Introduction:

• Hook: The integration of technology into education has revolutionized the way the majority of students learn, and teachers instruct.
• Background Information: In recent years, advancements in technology have transformed traditional classroom settings.
• Thesis Statement: This essay will explore the positive effects of technology on education, focusing on enhanced learning experiences and improved accessibility.

Body Paragraph 1:

• Topic Sentence: One significant benefit of technology in education is the enhancement of learning experiences.
• Supporting Details: Interactive educational software, virtual simulations, and multimedia resources engage students and promote a deeper understanding of concepts.
• Analysis: By incorporating technology, educators can cater to diverse learning styles and create dynamic, immersive learning environments.

Body Paragraph 2:

• Topic Sentence: Another advantage is the increased accessibility to educational resources.
• Supporting Details: Online platforms and digital libraries provide students with a wealth of information beyond traditional textbooks.
• Analysis: Technology eliminates geographical barriers, enabling students to access educational materials from anywhere, fostering a more inclusive learning environment.

Body Paragraph 3:

• Topic Sentence: Despite these benefits, concerns about technology’s impact on social skills and screen time persist.
• Supporting Details: Critics argue that excessive use of technology may hinder face-to-face interactions and contribute to sedentary lifestyles.
• Counterargument and Rebuttal: While these concerns are valid, the responsible integration of technology, combined with effective parenting and teaching strategies, can mitigate potential drawbacks.

Conclusion:

• Restate Thesis: In conclusion, technology has positively transformed education by enhancing learning experiences and increasing accessibility.
• Summarize Key Points: From interactive tools to online resources, the benefits of technology in education are diverse and impactful.
• Closing Statement: As technology continues to evolve, its role in education will likely become even more integral, shaping the future of learning for generations to come.

Now that you know the fundamentals, let’s take a closer look at paragraph structure essay.

Essay Paragraph Structure

Essay paragraphs play a crucial role in conveying ideas effectively. Each paragraph should have a clear and organized structure to help the reader follow your argument. This is a typical paragraph structure for essays:

Topic Sentence

• Introduction of the Main Idea: Clearly state the main point or argument of the paragraph.
• Connection to Thesis: Relate the topic sentence to the overall thesis of your essay.

Supporting Details

• Explanation or Elaboration: Provide more information to support the topic sentence.
• Examples or Evidence: Include specific examples, evidence, or data that reinforce your main point.
• Interpretation: Analyze and interpret the evidence or examples provided.
• Connection to Thesis: Explain how the details support and contribute to your overall thesis.
• Connection to the Next Paragraph: Use a transitional sentence to smoothly guide the reader to the next point or paragraph.

Here’s a good example:

Topic Sentence: Change in climate poses a significant threat to global ecosystems. Supporting Details: Global temperatures have led to more severe weather events, such as hurricanes and droughts. According to recent studies, the melting of polar ice caps contributes to rising sea levels, threatening coastal communities worldwide. Analysis: This evidence highlights the immediate impact of climate change on weather patterns and the long-term consequences for vulnerable regions. Transition: As the environmental challenges intensify, it becomes imperative to address these issues at both individual and governmental levels.

Essay Layout

The layout of an essay refers to how you visually present your written work. While the content and structure are essential, the layout enhances readability and professionalism. Below is a guide to a typical layout of an essay:

1. Page Format:

• Use a standard page size, typically 8.5 x 11 inches (or A4, depending on regional preferences).
• Set margins to 1 inch on all of the sides.
• Choose a readable font (e.g., Times New Roman, Arial) in a standard size (12-point is commonly used).

2. Title Page (if required):

• Include the essay title at the center.
• Your name, course name, instructor’s name, and submission date should be centered below the title.
• Follow all the guidelines provided by your instructor or institution.
• Include a header with your last name and page number in the top right corner (unless instructed otherwise).
• Use the “Insert” function in your word processor to add a page number.
• Center the title at the top of the first page.
• Use title case for major words, and don’t underline or italicize the title.

5. Introduction:

• Begin on the same page as the title, after a double space.
• Align text to the left.

6. Body Paragraphs:

• Indent the first line of each paragraph (usually half an inch).
• Use double spacing throughout the essay.
• Maintain a consistent font and size.

7. Heading and Subheadings:

• Use headings/subheadings to organize your essay, especially for longer works.
• Follow a hierarchical structure (e.g., Heading 1, Heading 2).
• Align headings to the left.

8. In-Text Citations:

• Follow a recognized citation style (APA, MLA, Chicago, etc.) as per your assignment requirements.
• Include in-text citations within the body of your essay.

9. Quotations:

• For longer quotes, use block quotations, indented and without quotation marks.
• Follow citation guidelines for quoting directly from sources.

10. Conclusion:

• End on the same page as the last body paragraph.

11. References/Bibliography:

• Begin on a new page.
• List all sources in the specified citation style.

12. Appendices (if needed):

• Include supplementary material on additional pages labeled with letters (e.g., Appendix A, Appendix B).

13. Spacing and Indentation:

• Double-space the entire essay, including quotations and the references page.
• Indent the first line of each paragraph.

14. Page Numbers:

• Continue page numbers throughout the essay.
• Typically, the title page is not numbered, and page one starts on the introduction page.

Adhering to a standardized layout not only ensures that your work looks professional but also helps your reader navigate through your ideas with ease. Therefore, always pay attention to the formatting guidelines provided by your instructor or institution, and refer to the latest referencing style guides.

10 Tips for a Good Essay Structure

Creating an effective essay structure is crucial for presenting your ideas in an organized manner. Here are some tips to get you started:

1. Understand the Prompt

Before writing your essay, ensure you thoroughly understand the prompt or question. This will guide the content and focus of your essay.

2. Outline Your Ideas

Create an outline before you begin writing. Organize your thoughts and arrange them logically. An outline can serve as a roadmap for your essay.

3. Keep Your Writing Clear and Concise

Avoid unnecessary repetition and wordiness. Ensure that each sentence contributes directly to the overall argument.

4. Use Paragraphs

Break your essay into paragraphs to make it easier to read.

5. Maintain Parallel Structure

Keep the structure consistent (e.g., if one subpoint is a phrase, make them all phrases).

6. Follow a Logical Order

Arrange your ideas in a sequence that makes sense to your reader.

7. Use Transitional Phrases and Sentences

This will help smoothly guide the reader from one point to the next and maintain the flow and coherence of your essay.

8. Follow Formatting Guidelines

Adhere to any formatting guidelines provided by your instructor or institution (e.g., font, spacing, citation style).

9. Review and Revise

Your outline is flexible, so feel free to revise and refine the structure as you develop your essay.

10. Check for Balance

Ensure that each main point receives adequate attention and support.

Remember, an effective academic essay structure not only helps you convey your ideas more clearly but also makes your writing more persuasive and engaging for the reader.

Crafting a well-structured essay is an art that becomes more manageable with practice. Use these templates and tips to organize your ideas logically, ensuring a compelling and coherent essay, and you’ll surely achieve your writing goals!

In case you’re stuck and need help with your essay or wondering ‘ who can write my presentation ,’ our dedicated team of professional academic writers and design experts is here for you 24/7!

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Basic essay structure

Improve your writing

Organise your essays to demonstrate your knowledge, show your research and support your arguments

Essays are usually written in continuous, flowing, paragraphed text and don’t use section headings. This may seem unstructured at first, but good essays are carefully structured.

How your assignment content is structured is your choice. Use the basic pattern below to get started.

Essay structure

An essay consists of three basic parts:, introduction.

The essay itself usually has no section headings. Only the title page, author declaration and reference list are written as headings, along with, for example, appendices. Check any task instructions, and your course or unit handbook, for further details.

Content in assignment introductions can vary widely. In some disciplines you may need to provide a full background and context, whereas other essays may need only a little context, and others may need none.

An introduction to an essay usually has three primary purposes:

• To set the scene
• To tell readers what is important, and why
• To tell the reader what the essay is going to do (signposting)

A standard introduction includes the following five elements:

• A statement that sets out the topic and engages the reader.
• The background and context of the topic.
• Any important definitions, integrated into your text as appropriate.
• An outline of the key points, topic, issues, evidence, ideas, arguments, models, theories, or other information, as appropriate. This may include distinctions or contrasts between different ideas or evidence.
• A final sentence or two which tells the reader your focal points and aims.

You should aim to restrict your introduction to information needed for the topic and only include background and contextual information which helps the reader understand it, or sets the scene for your chosen focal points.

In most essays you will have a considerable range of options for your focus. You will be expected to demonstrate your ability to select the most relevant content to address your focal points.

There are some exceptions. For example, if an assignment brief specifically directs the essay focus or requires you to write broadly about a topic. These are relatively rare or are discipline-specific so you should check your task instructions and discipline and subject area conventions.

Below are examples of an opening statement, a summary of the selected content, and a statement at the end of the introduction which tells the reader what the essay will focus on and how it will be addressed. We've use a fictional essay.

The title of our essay is: 'Cats are better than dogs. Discuss.'

To submit this essay you also would need to add citations as appropriate.

Example of opening statements:

People have shared their lives with cats and dogs for millenia. Which is better depends partly on each animal’s characteristics and partly on the owner’s preferences.

Here is a summary of five specific topics selected for the essay, which would be covered in a little more detail in the introduction:

• In ancient Egypt, cats were treated as sacred and were pampered companions.
• Dogs have for centuries been used for hunting and to guard property. There are many types of working dog, and both dogs and cats are now kept purely as pets.
• They are very different animals, with different care needs, traits and abilities.
• It is a common perception that people are either “cat-lovers” or “dog-lovers”.
• It is a common perception that people tend to have preferences for one, and negative beliefs about and attitudes towards, the other.

Example of closing statements at the end of the introduction:

This essay will examine both cats’ and dogs’ behaviour and abilities, the benefits of keeping them as pets, and whether people’s perceptions of their nature matches current knowledge and understanding.

Main body: paragraphs

The body of the essay should be organised into paragraphs. Each paragraph should deal with a different aspect of the issue, but they should also link in some way to those that precede and follow it. This is not an easy thing to get right, even for experienced writers, partly because there are many ways to successfully structure and use paragraphs. There is no perfect paragraph template.

The theme or topic statement

The first sentence, or sometimes two, tells the reader what the paragraph is going to cover. It may either:

• Begin a new point or topic, or
• Follow on from the previous paragraph, but with a different focus or go into more-specific detail. If this is the case, it should clearly link to the previous paragraph.

The last sentence

It should be clear if the point has come to an end, or if it continues in the next paragraph.

Here is a brief example of flow between two summarised paragraphs which cover the historical perspective:

It is known from hieroglyphs that the Ancient Egyptians believed that cats were sacred. They were also held in high regard, as suggested by their being found mummified and entombed with their owners (Smith, 1969). In addition, cats are portrayed aiding hunters. Therefore, they were both treated as sacred, and were used as intelligent working companions. However, today they are almost entirely owned as pets.

In contrast, dogs have not been regarded as sacred, but they have for centuries been widely used for hunting in Europe. This developed over time and eventually they became domesticated and accepted as pets. Today, they are seen as loyal, loving and protective members of the family, and are widely used as working dogs.

There is never any new information in a conclusion.

The conclusion usually does three things:

• Reminds your readers of what the essay was meant to do.
• Provides an answer, where possible, to the title.
• Reminds your reader how you reached that answer.

The conclusion should usually occupy just one paragraph. It draws together all the key elements of your essay, so you do not need to repeat the fine detail unless you are highlighting something.

A conclusion to our essay about cats and dogs is given below:

Both cats and dogs have been highly-valued for millenia, are affectionate and beneficial to their owners’ wellbeing. However, they are very different animals and each is 'better' than the other regarding care needs and natural traits. Dogs need regular training and exercise but many owners do not train or exercise them enough, resulting in bad behaviour. They also need to be 'boarded' if the owner is away and to have frequent baths to prevent bad odours. In contrast, cats do not need this level of effort and care. Dogs are seen as more intelligent, loyal and attuned to human beings, whereas cats are perceived as aloof and solitary, and as only seeking affection when they want to be fed. However, recent studies have shown that cats are affectionate and loyal and more intelligent than dogs, but it is less obvious and useful. There are, for example, no 'police' or 'assistance' cats, in part because they do not have the kinds of natural instincts which make dogs easy to train. Therefore, which animal is better depends upon personal preference and whether they are required to work. Therefore, although dogs are better as working animals, cats are easier, better pets.

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Better Essays: Signposting

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Essay Examples – Understanding The Structure

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At first, writing an essay can be daunting, especially for those who don’t know where to begin. Often, seeing an essay example can be one of the most direct and intuitive ways to grasp what makes for strong academic writing . Essay examples serve as a road map, showing you how different components come together to form a coherent and persuasive argument. We’ll break down the essay structure and use essay examples to give a straightforward step-by-step guide.

Inhaltsverzeichnis

• 1 In a nutshell: Essay examples
• 2 Definition: Essay examples
• 3 Components of an essay
• 4 Introduction
• 6 Conclusion
• 7 Essay outline

In a nutshell: Essay examples

• Academic essays tend to be personal to the writer, requiring true knowledge of the subject.
• Narrative essay
• Expository essay
• Argumentative essay
• Descriptive essay
• In this article, you will be shown an example of each part of an essay.

Definition: Essay examples

The main goal of an academic essay is to present a well-organized and knowledgeable narrative using a series of clear ideas that are presented in a logical sequence. This involves considering various perspectives on your topic and arriving at a cohesive contextual conclusion that reflects your individual viewpoint.

Components of an essay

An essay typically comprises three main parts: the introduction, the essay body , and the conclusion. Depending on the type and complexity of the essay, additional sections such as an abstract, methodology , results, and discussion may be included. It is important to note that each of these parts plays a crucial role, as illustrated in the essay examples below.

Introduction

• The essay starts with an introduction.
• It should have a captivating hook to grab the reader’s attention.
• The text should offer relevant information and background details pertaining to the topic.
• It should present a thesis statement that highlights the primary argument or focus of the essay.

The phenomenon of global warming has stirred up debates worldwide. While most agree that the planet is heating, the causes and consequences of this change are often contested. This ‘essay example’ will explore the scientific consensus on global warming and its potential impact on humanity.

• The body serves as the platform where you showcase your primary arguments or points.
• It’s important to have each point in a separate paragraph.
• You should begin your paragraph with a clear topic sentence, followed by supporting evidence or examples, and end with a sentence that ties back to your thesis statement.

The primary driver of global warming is the increased concentration of greenhouse gases in the Earth’s atmosphere due to human activities. Scientists point to the burning of fossil fuels as the main culprit, which releases carbon dioxide—a potent greenhouse gas. This increase in carbon dioxide levels traps more heat in the atmosphere, leading to the warming observed today.

• The conclusion plays a crucial role.
• It must provide a brief summary of the key points.
• It restates the thesis statement in light of the evidence presented.
• It offers a final thought or implication for the reader to ponder.

Given the overwhelming scientific consensus, it’s clear that human activities are the primary driver of global warming. The potential consequences of this change pose significant challenges for humanity, making urgent action imperative. As the custodians of Earth, we have a responsibility to mitigate the impacts of global warming for future generations.

Essay outline

Creating an essay outline can make the process of writing an essay example far less daunting and more organized. Here’s a basic essay outline using the examples given:

I. Introduction

• Hook: The controversy surrounding global warming
• Background information: General agreement on planetary heating
• Thesis statement: The essay will examine the scientific consensus and potential impact of global warming
• Topic sentence: Greenhouse gases as the primary driver
• Evidence: The burning of fossil fuels and the release of carbon dioxide
• Concluding sentence: The increase in greenhouse gases leads to warming

III. Conclusion

• Summary of main points: Human activities as the cause, significant challenges posed by global warming
• Restatement of thesis: The urgency of addressing global warming
• Closing thought: Our responsibility as custodians of Earth

Understanding the structure and creating an outline can simplify the task of writing an essay. The process becomes a matter of filling in the sections with your ideas and arguments. With practice and patience, you’ll be able to craft compelling essays on any topic.

What is the purpose of an essay example?

An essay example serves as a guide or a template for someone who is learning how to write an essay. By studying the structure, content, and writing style of the essay example, a learner can gain a clear understanding of how to develop a strong introduction, organize their arguments in the body paragraphs, and conclude their essay effectively.

Where can I find good essay examples?

Good essay examples can be found in numerous places. For example:

• Educational websites often provide essay examples for different types of essays such as argumentative, expository, narrative, and descriptive essays.
• Reputable newspapers and magazines can also be excellent sources for opinion and feature essay examples.

Always ensure that the examples you are learning from are well-written and come from credible sources.

How can I use an essay example to improve my own writing?

Studying an essay example can help strengthen your writing in several ways.

• You can analyze the structure of the essay and how each section is organized.
• You can also examine how the thesis statement is presented and supported throughout the essay.
• Pay attention to the language and tone used – this can help you to develop your writing style.
• Improving your understanding of citing sources , in academic writing, involves paying attention to how sources are cited.

Remember, essay examples should be used for learning and inspiration, not to be copied verbatim.

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• Knowledge Base
• How to write an argumentative essay | Examples & tips

How to Write an Argumentative Essay | Examples & Tips

Published on July 24, 2020 by Jack Caulfield . Revised on July 23, 2023.

An argumentative essay expresses an extended argument for a particular thesis statement . The author takes a clearly defined stance on their subject and builds up an evidence-based case for it.

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Table of contents

When do you write an argumentative essay, approaches to argumentative essays, introducing your argument, the body: developing your argument, concluding your argument, other interesting articles, frequently asked questions about argumentative essays.

You might be assigned an argumentative essay as a writing exercise in high school or in a composition class. The prompt will often ask you to argue for one of two positions, and may include terms like “argue” or “argument.” It will frequently take the form of a question.

The prompt may also be more open-ended in terms of the possible arguments you could make.

Argumentative writing at college level

At university, the vast majority of essays or papers you write will involve some form of argumentation. For example, both rhetorical analysis and literary analysis essays involve making arguments about texts.

In this context, you won’t necessarily be told to write an argumentative essay—but making an evidence-based argument is an essential goal of most academic writing, and this should be your default approach unless you’re told otherwise.

Examples of argumentative essay prompts

At a university level, all the prompts below imply an argumentative essay as the appropriate response.

Your research should lead you to develop a specific position on the topic. The essay then argues for that position and aims to convince the reader by presenting your evidence, evaluation and analysis.

• Don’t just list all the effects you can think of.
• Do develop a focused argument about the overall effect and why it matters, backed up by evidence from sources.
• Don’t just provide a selection of data on the measures’ effectiveness.
• Do build up your own argument about which kinds of measures have been most or least effective, and why.
• Don’t just analyze a random selection of doppelgänger characters.
• Do form an argument about specific texts, comparing and contrasting how they express their thematic concerns through doppelgänger characters.

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An argumentative essay should be objective in its approach; your arguments should rely on logic and evidence, not on exaggeration or appeals to emotion.

There are many possible approaches to argumentative essays, but there are two common models that can help you start outlining your arguments: The Toulmin model and the Rogerian model.

Toulmin arguments

The Toulmin model consists of four steps, which may be repeated as many times as necessary for the argument:

• Make a claim
• Provide the grounds (evidence) for the claim
• Explain the warrant (how the grounds support the claim)
• Discuss possible rebuttals to the claim, identifying the limits of the argument and showing that you have considered alternative perspectives

The Toulmin model is a common approach in academic essays. You don’t have to use these specific terms (grounds, warrants, rebuttals), but establishing a clear connection between your claims and the evidence supporting them is crucial in an argumentative essay.

Say you’re making an argument about the effectiveness of workplace anti-discrimination measures. You might:

• Claim that unconscious bias training does not have the desired results, and resources would be better spent on other approaches
• Cite data to support your claim
• Explain how the data indicates that the method is ineffective
• Anticipate objections to your claim based on other data, indicating whether these objections are valid, and if not, why not.

Rogerian arguments

The Rogerian model also consists of four steps you might repeat throughout your essay:

• Discuss what the opposing position gets right and why people might hold this position
• Highlight the problems with this position
• Present your own position , showing how it addresses these problems
• Suggest a possible compromise —what elements of your position would proponents of the opposing position benefit from adopting?

This model builds up a clear picture of both sides of an argument and seeks a compromise. It is particularly useful when people tend to disagree strongly on the issue discussed, allowing you to approach opposing arguments in good faith.

Say you want to argue that the internet has had a positive impact on education. You might:

• Acknowledge that students rely too much on websites like Wikipedia
• Argue that teachers view Wikipedia as more unreliable than it really is
• Suggest that Wikipedia’s system of citations can actually teach students about referencing
• Suggest critical engagement with Wikipedia as a possible assignment for teachers who are skeptical of its usefulness.

You don’t necessarily have to pick one of these models—you may even use elements of both in different parts of your essay—but it’s worth considering them if you struggle to structure your arguments.

Regardless of which approach you take, your essay should always be structured using an introduction , a body , and a conclusion .

Like other academic essays, an argumentative essay begins with an introduction . The introduction serves to capture the reader’s interest, provide background information, present your thesis statement , and (in longer essays) to summarize the structure of the body.

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

The spread of the internet has had a world-changing effect, not least on the world of education. The use of the internet in academic contexts is on the rise, and its role in learning is hotly debated. For many teachers who did not grow up with this technology, its effects seem alarming and potentially harmful. This concern, while understandable, is misguided. The negatives of internet use are outweighed by its critical benefits for students and educators—as a uniquely comprehensive and accessible information source; a means of exposure to and engagement with different perspectives; and a highly flexible learning environment.

The body of an argumentative essay is where you develop your arguments in detail. Here you’ll present evidence, analysis, and reasoning to convince the reader that your thesis statement is true.

In the standard five-paragraph format for short essays, the body takes up three of your five paragraphs. In longer essays, it will be more paragraphs, and might be divided into sections with headings.

Each paragraph covers its own topic, introduced with a topic sentence . Each of these topics must contribute to your overall argument; don’t include irrelevant information.

This example paragraph takes a Rogerian approach: It first acknowledges the merits of the opposing position and then highlights problems with that position.

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

A common frustration for teachers is students’ use of Wikipedia as a source in their writing. Its prevalence among students is not exaggerated; a survey found that the vast majority of the students surveyed used Wikipedia (Head & Eisenberg, 2010). An article in The Guardian stresses a common objection to its use: “a reliance on Wikipedia can discourage students from engaging with genuine academic writing” (Coomer, 2013). Teachers are clearly not mistaken in viewing Wikipedia usage as ubiquitous among their students; but the claim that it discourages engagement with academic sources requires further investigation. This point is treated as self-evident by many teachers, but Wikipedia itself explicitly encourages students to look into other sources. Its articles often provide references to academic publications and include warning notes where citations are missing; the site’s own guidelines for research make clear that it should be used as a starting point, emphasizing that users should always “read the references and check whether they really do support what the article says” (“Wikipedia:Researching with Wikipedia,” 2020). Indeed, for many students, Wikipedia is their first encounter with the concepts of citation and referencing. The use of Wikipedia therefore has a positive side that merits deeper consideration than it often receives.

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An argumentative essay ends with a conclusion that summarizes and reflects on the arguments made in the body.

No new arguments or evidence appear here, but in longer essays you may discuss the strengths and weaknesses of your argument and suggest topics for future research. In all conclusions, you should stress the relevance and importance of your argument.

Hover over the following example to see the typical elements of a conclusion.

The internet has had a major positive impact on the world of education; occasional pitfalls aside, its value is evident in numerous applications. The future of teaching lies in the possibilities the internet opens up for communication, research, and interactivity. As the popularity of distance learning shows, students value the flexibility and accessibility offered by digital education, and educators should fully embrace these advantages. The internet’s dangers, real and imaginary, have been documented exhaustively by skeptics, but the internet is here to stay; it is time to focus seriously on its potential for good.

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 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.

At college level, you must properly cite your sources in all essays , research papers , and other academic texts (except exams and in-class exercises).

Add a citation whenever you quote , paraphrase , or summarize information or ideas from a source. You should also give full source details in a bibliography or reference list at the end of your text.

The exact format of your citations depends on which citation style you are instructed to use. The most common styles are APA , MLA , and Chicago .

The majority of the essays written at university are some sort of argumentative essay . Unless otherwise specified, you can assume that the goal of any essay you’re asked to write is argumentative: To convince the reader of your position using evidence and reasoning.

In composition classes you might be given assignments that specifically test your ability to write an argumentative essay. Look out for prompts including instructions like “argue,” “assess,” or “discuss” to see if this is the goal.

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