How to write an essay
How to Structure an Essay using the Academic Principle |
1. Create an outline. This outline follows the rules of Academic Structure. A simple outline for your first draft can look like this:
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Now, let's start filling in your outline!
2. Pick your topic. It should not be too broad (covering too much information, a large time period) or general. You should have a clear idea of what you want to write about and what your conclusion will be.
2. Pick your topic. It should not be too broad (covering too much information, a large time period) or general. You should have a clear idea of what you want to write about and what your conclusion will be.
3. Create a thesis statement. For a persuasive essay, it should state a clear argument/opinion, but should also be debatable. It should contain your subtheses, even just as single verbs or adjectives that you will turn into topic sentences later for your subthesis paragraphs. Check with your professor to ensure that your thesis statement is acceptable!
Here's an easy way to write a persuasive thesis statement!
Puppies"Puppies are cute."
This is a poor thesis statement because no one would really argue that puppies are NOT cute. It's also too simple and has no supporting evidence (three subtheses, or ideas which connect to the idea that puppies are cute). "Puppies are cute because they appeal to our love for childlike features (neotony): big eyes, round heads, soft shapes." This is a better thesis statement - it contains a reason and some evidence, but it could still be debated: some people might argue that 'puppies are cute because they are small and furry', or because 'dogs in general are so loyal and loving'. "When it comes to a family pet, many people will choose a puppy, for three main reasons: dogs are perceived as loyal, dogs can be useful to their owners in ways that other pets cannot, and we find dogs appealing." This is the best thesis statement because it contains a clear statement and three supporting points of evidence. The writer can then give examples of each point: a) faithful dogs who guard the family with devotion, b) working dogs who help herd sheep, guide the blind, or protect the household, and c) ways in which dogs appeal to us (physically cute, emotionally connected and loving, a convenient size, etc.) It can be countered by arguing that dogs are untidy and messy, that they require daily walks and supervised feeding, and are not very independent. The rebuttal to the counterargument could be that many people need the extra exercise and activity that is necessary in taking care of a dog, and that they enjoy the emotional bond that the dog's dependence creates. |
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4. Research information about your chosen topic, from multiple reliable sources (essays, theses, books, magazines, newspapers, etc. ) Make sure you record all the sources you use, and format them correctly in the Bibliography. You may include non-English sources if you translate the information or quote you obtain, and credit your source appropriately in the Bibliography (see "How to Structure a Bibliography'). You may not use Wikipedia or private blog posts/opinion pieces as academic references. Write down any useful information that supports your thesis statement!
5. Write a first draft, using the outline/academic structure above.
Here's how to flesh that outline out:
5. Write a first draft, using the outline/academic structure above.
Here's how to flesh that outline out:
Introduction
You should start with a general discussion of your subject and lead to a very specific statement of your main point, or thesis. You can also add a 'hook' at the very beginning ( (an introductory sentence to catch your reader's attention. Click here to see some good examples!) Of course, you should have a title and your identification at the very top of the essay or on a cover page. Check with your professor to find out what format they prefer. Main Body Paragraphs Each main body paragraph will focus on a subthesis: a single idea, reason, or example that supports your thesis. Each paragraph will have a clear topic sentence which states the main idea of the paragraph, as well as evidence - details, quotes, statistics, anecdotes, and other specific examples to prove your point. And don't forget to use.... Transitions: Transitions are ways to move smoothly and clearly from one idea or paragraph to the next. You should connect the ideas in your paragraphs and arrange them in the right order so that the essay flows smoothly. Many good transition words and phrases are listed here. |
Conclusion
Your conclusion begins with a restatement or paraphrase of your main point; then add sentences to emphasize the importance of the topic and the significance of your view. You should include some change, purpose, or call to action for your audience to make a strong conclusion. |
Parsed Essays
Parsed Opinion Essay: Quit Mourning Karl Lagerfeld Parsed Persuasive Essay: Tasha Tudor - The Nostalgic Illustrator |
Sample essays
See the Reading section for further example essays.