Introduction
Start with a sentence that will catch the attention of the reader, but also introduces the subject of the paper.
Narrow subject
- Give background information.
- Cite author and article, short story, or poem on which your essay is based.
- Define terms your readers might not know.
Name Main Points - Usually two or three, in the same order in which they will be discussed in the essay body.
State Thesis - Opinion or point of view you intend to defend, to be supported by main points.
Body
Main Point - First (same for Second and Third, and so on)
- Topic Sentence - Introduce first main point; limits paragraph to only that topic.
- Examples that are illuminative and provide proof for you topic.
- Explanation and details
- Conclusion/Transition
Conclusion
Return to general discussion as in INTRODUCTION.
Restate Thesis (NOTE: Restating the thesis means rewording the thesis, not simply "cutting & pasting it").
Concluding Statement - Ends essay with impact and makes it more than simply a repetition of the Introduction.
- Discuss implications of thesis.
- Propose solutions for thesis.
- Relate thesis to something beyond scope of essay: how does thesis fit into relevant, larger picture like society, humanity, government, science, personal relations, etc.
Tip!
One of the biggest tools writers use in their introductions is a "hook". Using something like a provocative question, a good quote, or a really bold statement will interest the audience in wanting to read more.
Adapted from UNM's Center For Academic Program Support