Traditional academic papers have a three-part essay structure. So, any essay usually consists of:
- Introduction. The introduction is usually one paragraph (but sometimes two or more). It introduces the topic to be discussed and the central idea (the thesis statement) of the essay.
- Developmental paragraphs. These paragraphs develop various aspects of the topic and the central idea. They may discuss causes, effects, reasons, examples, processes, classifications, or points of comparison and contrast. They may also describe or narrate.
- Conclusion. This paragraph concludes the thought developed in the essay. It is the closing word.
In the essay, the sentence containing the central idea is called the thesis statement:
- The thesis statement should be expressed in a complete sentence.
- A thesis statement expresses an opinion, attitude, or idea. It does not simply announce the topic the essay will develop.
- A thesis statement should express an opinion; it should not describe a fact.
- A thesis statement should express only one idea about one topic. If a thesis statement contains two or more ideas, the essay runs the risk of lacking unity and coherence.
Introduction
- An introductory paragraph should introduce the topic.
- An introductory paragraph should indicate generally how the author will develop the chosen topic.
- Generally speaking, an introductory paragraph should contain the thesis statement.
- Ideally, an introductory paragraph should be inviting. That is, it should be interesting enough to make the reader want to continue reading. Use a hook to draw the reader’s attention.
Developmental paragraphs range in number in the typical student essay (from about two to four). They are the heart of the essay, for their function is to explain, illustrate, discuss or prove the thesis statement:
- Each developmental paragraph discusses one aspect of the main topic.
- The controlling idea in the developmental paragraph should echo the central idea in the thesis statement.
- The developmental paragraphs should have coherence and unity.
Conclusion
- A conclusion can restate the main points (subtopics) discussed.
- The concluding paragraph can restate the thesis.
- A conclusion should not, however, bring up a new topic.
Source: AEssay Team
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