- PRO Courses Guides New Tech Help Pro Expert Videos About wikiHow Pro Upgrade Sign In
- EDIT Edit this Article
- EXPLORE Tech Help Pro About Us Random Article Quizzes Request a New Article Community Dashboard This Or That Game Happiness Hub Popular Categories Arts and Entertainment Artwork Books Movies Computers and Electronics Computers Phone Skills Technology Hacks Health Men's Health Mental Health Women's Health Relationships Dating Love Relationship Issues Hobbies and Crafts Crafts Drawing Games Education & Communication Communication Skills Personal Development Studying Personal Care and Style Fashion Hair Care Personal Hygiene Youth Personal Care School Stuff Dating All Categories Arts and Entertainment Finance and Business Home and Garden Relationship Quizzes Cars & Other Vehicles Food and Entertaining Personal Care and Style Sports and Fitness Computers and Electronics Health Pets and Animals Travel Education & Communication Hobbies and Crafts Philosophy and Religion Work World Family Life Holidays and Traditions Relationships Youth
- Browse Articles
- Learn Something New
- Quizzes Hot
- Happiness Hub
- This Or That Game
- Train Your Brain
- Explore More
- Support wikiHow
- About wikiHow
- Log in / Sign up
- Education and Communications
- English Grammar
- Writing Paragraphs
![](http://serviteca.online/777/templates/cheerup2/res/banner1.gif)
How to Structure Paragraphs in an Essay
Last Updated: February 28, 2024 Fact Checked
This article was co-authored by Christopher Taylor, PhD and by wikiHow staff writer, Danielle Blinka, MA, MPA . Christopher Taylor is an Adjunct Assistant Professor of English at Austin Community College in Texas. He received his PhD in English Literature and Medieval Studies from the University of Texas at Austin in 2014. There are 9 references cited in this article, which can be found at the bottom of the page. This article has been fact-checked, ensuring the accuracy of any cited facts and confirming the authority of its sources. This article has been viewed 186,484 times.
Writing an essay can be challenging, especially if you're not sure how to structure your paragraphs. If you’re struggling to organize your essay, you’re in luck! Putting your paragraphs in order may become easier after you understand their purpose. Additionally, knowing what to include in your introduction, body, and conclusion paragraphs will help you more easily get your writing assignment finished.
Standard 5-Paragraph Essay Structure
A typical short essay has 5 paragraphs. Begin with a 1-paragraph introduction that gives an overview of the subject and introduces a specific topic or problem. Include at least 3 body paragraphs that support or explain your main point with evidence. End with a concluding paragraph that briefly summarizes your essay.
Essay Template and Sample Essay
![how to structure paragraphs in an essay how to structure paragraphs in an essay](https://www.wikihow.com/images/thumb/d/de/Essay-Template.png/340px-Essay-Template.png)
Putting Your Paragraphs in Order
![how to structure paragraphs in an essay Step 1 Start your essay...](https://www.wikihow.com/images/thumb/3/39/Structure-Paragraphs-in-an-Essay-Step-1-Version-2.jpg/v4-460px-Structure-Paragraphs-in-an-Essay-Step-1-Version-2.jpg)
- A basic introduction will be about 3-4 sentences long.
![how to structure paragraphs in an essay Step 2 Include at least 3 body paragraphs to explain your ideas.](https://www.wikihow.com/images/thumb/6/6f/Structure-Paragraphs-in-an-Essay-Step-2-Version-2.jpg/v4-460px-Structure-Paragraphs-in-an-Essay-Step-2-Version-2.jpg)
- Body paragraphs will make up the bulk of your essay. At a minimum, a body paragraph needs to be 4 sentences long. However, a good body paragraph in a short essay will be at least 6-8 sentences long.
![how to structure paragraphs in an essay Step 3 End with a...](https://www.wikihow.com/images/thumb/7/7c/Structure-Paragraphs-in-an-Essay-Step-3-Version-2.jpg/v4-460px-Structure-Paragraphs-in-an-Essay-Step-3-Version-2.jpg)
- A good conclusion for a short essay will be 3-4 sentences long.
![how to structure paragraphs in an essay Step 4 Use transition words to move smoothly from paragraph to paragraph.](https://www.wikihow.com/images/thumb/3/3f/Structure-Paragraphs-in-an-Essay-Step-4-Version-2.jpg/v4-460px-Structure-Paragraphs-in-an-Essay-Step-4-Version-2.jpg)
- For example, let’s say you’re writing an essay about recycling. Your first point might be about the value of local recycling programs, while your second point might be about the importance of encouraging recycling at work or school. A good transition between these two points might be “furthermore” or “additionally.”
- If your third point is about how upcycling might be the best way to reuse old items, a good transition word might be “however” or “on the other hand.” This is because upcycling involves reusing items rather than recycling them, so it's a little bit different. You want your reader to recognize that you're talking about something that slightly contrasts with your original two points.
Structuring Your Introduction
![how to structure paragraphs in an essay Step 1 Open your essay with a “hook” that engages your reader’s interest.](https://www.wikihow.com/images/thumb/9/9f/Structure-Paragraphs-in-an-Essay-Step-5-Version-2.jpg/v4-460px-Structure-Paragraphs-in-an-Essay-Step-5-Version-2.jpg)
- Provide a quote: “According to Neil LaBute, ‘We live in a disposable society.’”
- Include statistics: “The EPA reports that only 34 percent of waste created by Americans is recycled every year.”
- Give a rhetorical question: “If you could change your habits to save the planet, would you do it?”
![how to structure paragraphs in an essay Step 2 Explain your topic and why it’s important in 2 sentences.](https://www.wikihow.com/images/thumb/8/89/Structure-Paragraphs-in-an-Essay-Step-6-Version-2.jpg/v4-460px-Structure-Paragraphs-in-an-Essay-Step-6-Version-2.jpg)
- Here’s an example: “Recycling offers a way to reduce waste and reuse old items, but many people don’t bother recycling their old goods. Unless people change their ways, landfills will continue to grow as more generations discard their trash.”
![how to structure paragraphs in an essay Step 3 Present your argument...](https://www.wikihow.com/images/thumb/5/56/Structure-Paragraphs-in-an-Essay-Step-7-Version-2.jpg/v4-460px-Structure-Paragraphs-in-an-Essay-Step-7-Version-2.jpg)
- Here’s how a basic thesis about recycling might look: "To reduce the amount of trash in landfills, people must participate in local recycling programs, start recycling at school or work, and upcycle old items whenever they can."
- If you’re writing an argument or persuasive essay, your thesis might look like this: “Although recycling may take more effort, recycling and upcycling are both valuable ways to prevent expanding landfills.”
Crafting Good Body Paragraphs
![how to structure paragraphs in an essay Step 1 Begin each body paragraph when you have a new idea to introduce.](https://www.wikihow.com/images/thumb/d/d0/Structure-Paragraphs-in-an-Essay-Step-8-Version-2.jpg/v4-460px-Structure-Paragraphs-in-an-Essay-Step-8-Version-2.jpg)
- A good body paragraph in a short essay typically has 6-8 sentences. If you’re not sure how many sentences your paragraphs should include, talk to your instructor.
- Write a new paragraph for each of your main ideas. Packing too much information into one paragraph can make it confusing.
![how to structure paragraphs in an essay Step 2 Write a clear topic sentence to introduce your main point.](https://www.wikihow.com/images/thumb/c/cd/Structure-Paragraphs-in-an-Essay-Step-9-Version-2.jpg/v4-460px-Structure-Paragraphs-in-an-Essay-Step-9-Version-2.jpg)
- If you begin your essay by writing an outline, include your topic sentence for each paragraph in your outline.
- You might write, “Local recycling programs are a valuable way to reduce waste, but only if people use them.”
![how to structure paragraphs in an essay Step 3 Provide your evidence to back up the point you’re making.](https://www.wikihow.com/images/thumb/c/cc/Structure-Paragraphs-in-an-Essay-Step-10-Version-2.jpg/v4-460px-Structure-Paragraphs-in-an-Essay-Step-10-Version-2.jpg)
- Your evidence might come from books, journal articles, websites, or other authoritative sources .
- The word evidence might make you think of data or experts. However, some essays will include only your ideas, depending on the assignment. In this case, you might be allowed to take evidence from your observations and experiences, but only if your assignment specifically allows this type of evidence.
- You could write, “According to Mayor Anderson’s office, only 23 percent of local households participate in the city’s recycling program.”
![how to structure paragraphs in an essay Step 4 Analyze your evidence in 1-2 sentences to connect it back to your ideas.](https://www.wikihow.com/images/thumb/d/d9/Structure-Paragraphs-in-an-Essay-Step-11-Version-2.jpg/v4-460px-Structure-Paragraphs-in-an-Essay-Step-11-Version-2.jpg)
- In some cases, you may offer more than one piece of evidence in the same paragraph. Make sure you provide a 1 to 2 sentence explanation for each piece of evidence.
- For instance, “Residents who are using the recycling program aren’t contributing as much trash to local landfills, so they’re helping keep the community clean. On the other hand, most households don’t recycle, so the program isn’t as effective as it could be.”
![how to structure paragraphs in an essay Step 5 Conclude the paragraph.](https://www.wikihow.com/images/thumb/b/b8/Structure-Paragraphs-in-an-Essay-Step-12-Version-2.jpg/v4-460px-Structure-Paragraphs-in-an-Essay-Step-12-Version-2.jpg)
- For instance, you could write, “Clearly, local recycling programs can make a big difference, but they aren’t the only way to reduce waste.”
Arranging Your Conclusion
![how to structure paragraphs in an essay Step 1 Restate your thesis in the opening sentence of your conclusion.](https://www.wikihow.com/images/thumb/0/07/Structure-Paragraphs-in-an-Essay-Step-13-Version-2.jpg/v4-460px-Structure-Paragraphs-in-an-Essay-Step-13-Version-2.jpg)
- You could write, “By participating in local recycling programs, recycling at work, and upcycling old items, people can reduce their environmental footprint.”
![how to structure paragraphs in an essay Step 2 Summarize how your arguments support your thesis in 1-2 sentences.](https://www.wikihow.com/images/thumb/8/84/Structure-Paragraphs-in-an-Essay-Step-14.jpg/v4-460px-Structure-Paragraphs-in-an-Essay-Step-14.jpg)
- As an example, “Statistics show that few people are participating in available recycling programs, but they are an effective way to reduce waste. By recycling and upcycling, people can reduce their trash consumption by as much as 70%.”
![how to structure paragraphs in an essay Step 3 End by answering the question “so what.”](https://www.wikihow.com/images/thumb/2/2e/Structure-Paragraphs-in-an-Essay-Step-15.jpg/v4-460px-Structure-Paragraphs-in-an-Essay-Step-15.jpg)
- Give your readers a call to action. For example, “To save the planet, everyone needs to recycle."
- Offer a solution to the problem you presented. For instance, "With more education about recycling, more people will participate in their local programs."
- Point to the next question that needs to be answered. You might write, "To get more people to recycle, researchers need to determine the reasons why they don't."
- Provide a valuable insight about your topic. As an example, "If everyone recycled, landfills might become a thing of the past."
Community Q&A
![how to structure paragraphs in an essay Community Answer](https://www.wikihow.com/images/thumb/0/0a/CommunityAvatar1.png/-crop-104-104-104px-CommunityAvatar1.png)
- Ask a friend to read your essay and provide you with feedback. Ask if they understand your points and if any ideas need more development. Thanks Helpful 0 Not Helpful 0
- Writing gets easier with practice, so don’t give up! Everyone was a beginner at some point, and it’s normal to struggle with writing. Thanks Helpful 0 Not Helpful 0
![how to structure paragraphs in an essay how to structure paragraphs in an essay](https://www.wikihow.com/images/2/20/Wpro_v01_0420x0250.jpg)
- If you copy someone else’s writing or ideas, it’s called plagiarism. Don’t ever plagiarize, as this is a serious offense. Not only will you get in trouble if you plagiarize, you probably won’t receive credit for the assignment. Thanks Helpful 0 Not Helpful 0
You Might Also Like
![how to structure paragraphs in an essay Write an Essay](https://www.wikihow.com/images/thumb/8/83/Write-an-Essay-Step-19-Version-3.jpg/-crop-342-184-245px-Write-an-Essay-Step-19-Version-3.jpg)
- ↑ https://writingcenter.unc.edu/tips-and-tools/introductions/
- ↑ https://www.student.unsw.edu.au/writing-your-essay
- ↑ https://writingcenter.unc.edu/tips-and-tools/conclusions/
- ↑ https://www.plainlanguage.gov/guidelines/organize/use-transition-words/
- ↑ https://www.esu.edu/writing-studio/guides/hook.cfm
- ↑ https://wts.indiana.edu/writing-guides/how-to-write-a-thesis-statement.html
- ↑ https://libguides.newcastle.edu.au/writing-paragraphs/structure
- ↑ https://lsa.umich.edu/sweetland/undergraduates/writing-guides/how-do-i-write-an-intro--conclusion----body-paragraph.html
- ↑ https://www.umgc.edu/current-students/learning-resources/writing-center/writing-resources/parts-of-an-essay/essay-conclusions
About This Article
![how to structure paragraphs in an essay Christopher Taylor, PhD](https://www.wikihow.com/images/thumb/2/2c/Chris_Taylor_Photo.jpg/-crop-100-100-99px-Chris_Taylor_Photo.jpg)
- Send fan mail to authors
Reader Success Stories
![how to structure paragraphs in an essay Anonymous](https://www.wikihow.com/images/thumb/f/f5/CommunityAvatar4.png/-crop-72-72-72px-CommunityAvatar4.png)
Jun 20, 2017
Did this article help you?
![how to structure paragraphs in an essay Anonymous](https://www.wikihow.com/images/thumb/b/b0/CommunityAvatar2.png/-crop-72-72-72px-CommunityAvatar2.png)
Featured Articles
![how to structure paragraphs in an essay Protect Yourself from Predators (for Kids)](https://www.wikihow.com/images/thumb/6/6f/Categories_Header_Personal.jpg/-crop-127-140-127px-Categories_Header_Personal.jpg)
Trending Articles
![how to structure paragraphs in an essay Reading Women’s Body Language: Signs & Signals That She’s Flirting](https://www.wikihow.com/images/thumb/e/e0/Read-Women%27s-Body-Language-for-Flirting-Step-18.jpg/-crop-127-140-127px-Read-Women%27s-Body-Language-for-Flirting-Step-18.jpg)
Watch Articles
![how to structure paragraphs in an essay Wear a Headband](https://www.wikihow.com/images/thumb/a/a5/Wear-a-Headband-Step-6-Version-8.jpg/-crop-127-140-127px-Wear-a-Headband-Step-6-Version-8.jpg)
- Terms of Use
- Privacy Policy
- Do Not Sell or Share My Info
- Not Selling Info
wikiHow Tech Help Pro:
Level up your tech skills and stay ahead of the curve
![how to structure paragraphs in an essay helpful professor logo](https://helpfulprofessor.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/05/logo-new-font-323x42.png)
11 Rules for Essay Paragraph Structure (with Examples)
![how to structure paragraphs in an essay 11 Rules for Essay Paragraph Structure (with Examples)](https://helpfulprofessor.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/01/Chris-200px.jpg)
Chris Drew (PhD)
Dr. Chris Drew is the founder of the Helpful Professor. He holds a PhD in education and has published over 20 articles in scholarly journals. He is the former editor of the Journal of Learning Development in Higher Education. [Image Descriptor: Photo of Chris]
Learn about our Editorial Process
How do you structure a paragraph in an essay?
If you’re like the majority of my students, you might be getting your basic essay paragraph structure wrong and getting lower grades than you could!
In this article, I outline the 11 key steps to writing a perfect paragraph. But, this isn’t your normal ‘how to write an essay’ article. Rather, I’ll try to give you some insight into exactly what teachers look out for when they’re grading essays and figuring out what grade to give them.
You can navigate each issue below, or scroll down to read them all:
1. Paragraphs must be at least four sentences long 2. But, at most seven sentences long 3. Your paragraph must be Left-Aligned 4. You need a topic sentence 5 . Next, you need an explanation sentence 6. You need to include an example 7. You need to include citations 8. All paragraphs need to be relevant to the marking criteria 9. Only include one key idea per paragraph 10. Keep sentences short 11. Keep quotes short
Paragraph structure is one of the most important elements of getting essay writing right .
As I cover in my Ultimate Guide to Writing an Essay Plan , paragraphs are the heart and soul of your essay.
However, I find most of my students have either:
- forgotten how to write paragraphs properly,
- gotten lazy, or
- never learned it in the first place!
Paragraphs in essay writing are different from paragraphs in other written genres .
In fact, the paragraphs that you are reading now would not help your grades in an essay.
That’s because I’m writing in journalistic style, where paragraph conventions are vastly different.
For those of you coming from journalism or creative writing, you might find you need to re-learn paragraph writing if you want to write well-structured essay paragraphs to get top grades.
Below are eleven reasons your paragraphs are losing marks, and what to do about it!
![how to structure paragraphs in an essay 11 tips for perfect paragraphs](https://helpfulprofessor.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/02/Perfect_Paragraph-e1554782689294.jpg)
Essay Paragraph Structure Rules
1. your paragraphs must be at least 4 sentences long.
In journalism and blog writing, a one-sentence paragraph is great. It’s short, to-the-point, and helps guide your reader. For essay paragraph structure, one-sentence paragraphs suck.
A one-sentence essay paragraph sends an instant signal to your teacher that you don’t have much to say on an issue.
A short paragraph signifies that you know something – but not much about it. A one-sentence paragraph lacks detail, depth and insight.
Many students come to me and ask, “what does ‘add depth’ mean?” It’s one of the most common pieces of feedback you’ll see written on the margins of your essay.
Personally, I think ‘add depth’ is bad feedback because it’s a short and vague comment. But, here’s what it means: You’ve not explained your point enough!
If you’re writing one-, two- or three-sentence essay paragraphs, you’re costing yourself marks.
Always aim for at least four sentences per paragraph in your essays.
This doesn’t mean that you should add ‘fluff’ or ‘padding’ sentences.
Make sure you don’t:
a) repeat what you said in different words, or b) write something just because you need another sentence in there.
But, you need to do some research and find something insightful to add to that two-sentence paragraph if you want to ace your essay.
Check out Points 5 and 6 for some advice on what to add to that short paragraph to add ‘depth’ to your paragraph and start moving to the top of the class.
- How to Make an Essay Longer
- How to Make an Essay Shorter
2. Your Paragraphs must not be more than 7 Sentences Long
Okay, so I just told you to aim for at least four sentences per paragraph. So, what’s the longest your paragraph should be?
Seven sentences. That’s a maximum.
So, here’s the rule:
Between four and seven sentences is the sweet spot that you need to aim for in every single paragraph.
Here’s why your paragraphs shouldn’t be longer than seven sentences:
1. It shows you can organize your thoughts. You need to show your teacher that you’ve broken up your key ideas into manageable segments of text (see point 10)
2. It makes your work easier to read. You need your writing to be easily readable to make it easy for your teacher to give you good grades. Make your essay easy to read and you’ll get higher marks every time.
One of the most important ways you can make your work easier to read is by writing paragraphs that are less than six sentences long.
3. It prevents teacher frustration. Teachers are just like you. When they see a big block of text their eyes glaze over. They get frustrated, lost, their mind wanders … and you lose marks.
To prevent teacher frustration, you need to ensure there’s plenty of white space in your essay. It’s about showing them that the piece is clearly structured into one key idea per ‘chunk’ of text.
Often, you might find that your writing contains tautologies and other turns of phrase that can be shortened for clarity.
3. Your Paragraph must be Left-Aligned
Turn off ‘Justified’ text and: Never. Turn. It. On. Again.
Justified text is where the words are stretched out to make the paragraph look like a square. It turns the writing into a block. Don’t do it. You will lose marks, I promise you! Win the psychological game with your teacher: left-align your text.
A good essay paragraph is never ‘justified’.
I’m going to repeat this, because it’s important: to prevent your essay from looking like a big block of muddy, hard-to-read text align your text to the left margin only.
You want white space on your page – and lots of it. White space helps your reader scan through your work. It also prevents it from looking like big blocks of text.
You want your reader reading vertically as much as possible: scanning, browsing, and quickly looking through for evidence you’ve engaged with the big ideas.
The justified text doesn’t help you do that. Justified text makes your writing look like a big, lumpy block of text that your reader doesn’t want to read.
What’s wrong with Center-Aligned Text?
While I’m at it, never, ever, center-align your text either. Center-aligned text is impossible to skim-read. Your teacher wants to be able to quickly scan down the left margin to get the headline information in your paragraph.
Not many people center-align text, but it’s worth repeating: never, ever center-align your essays.
![how to structure paragraphs in an essay an infographic showing that left-aligned paragraphs are easy to read. The infographic recommends using Control plus L on a PC keyboard or Command plus L on a Mac to left align a paragraph](https://helpfulprofessor.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/01/essay-paragraph-layout-justified-center-left-aligned-567x1024.jpg)
Don’t annoy your reader. Left align your text.
4. Your paragraphs must have a Topic Sentence
The first sentence of an essay paragraph is called the topic sentence. This is one of the most important sentences in the correct essay paragraph structure style.
The topic sentence should convey exactly what key idea you’re going to cover in your paragraph.
Too often, students don’t let their reader know what the key idea of the paragraph is until several sentences in.
You must show what the paragraph is about in the first sentence.
You never, ever want to keep your reader in suspense. Essays are not like creative writing. Tell them straight away what the paragraph is about. In fact, if you can, do it in the first half of the first sentence .
I’ll remind you again: make it easy to grade your work. Your teacher is reading through your work trying to determine what grade to give you. They’re probably going to mark 20 assignments in one sitting. They have no interest in storytelling or creativity. They just want to know how much you know! State what the paragraph is about immediately and move on.
Suggested: Best Words to Start a Paragraph
Ideal Essay Paragraph Structure Example: Writing a Topic Sentence If your paragraph is about how climate change is endangering polar bears, say it immediately : “Climate change is endangering polar bears.” should be your first sentence in your paragraph. Take a look at first sentence of each of the four paragraphs above this one. You can see from the first sentence of each paragraph that the paragraphs discuss:
When editing your work, read each paragraph and try to distil what the one key idea is in your paragraph. Ensure that this key idea is mentioned in the first sentence .
(Note: if there’s more than one key idea in the paragraph, you may have a problem. See Point 9 below .)
The topic sentence is the most important sentence for getting your essay paragraph structure right. So, get your topic sentences right and you’re on the right track to a good essay paragraph.
5. You need an Explanation Sentence
All topic sentences need a follow-up explanation. The very first point on this page was that too often students write paragraphs that are too short. To add what is called ‘depth’ to a paragraph, you can come up with two types of follow-up sentences: explanations and examples.
Let’s take explanation sentences first.
Explanation sentences give additional detail. They often provide one of the following services:
Let’s go back to our example of a paragraph on Climate change endangering polar bears. If your topic sentence is “Climate change is endangering polar bears.”, then your follow-up explanation sentence is likely to explain how, why, where, or when. You could say:
Ideal Essay Paragraph Structure Example: Writing Explanation Sentences 1. How: “The warming atmosphere is melting the polar ice caps.” 2. Why: “The polar bears’ habitats are shrinking every single year.” 3. Where: “This is happening in the Antarctic ice caps near Greenland.” 4. When: “Scientists first noticed the ice caps were shrinking in 1978.”
You don’t have to provide all four of these options each time.
But, if you’re struggling to think of what to add to your paragraph to add depth, consider one of these four options for a good quality explanation sentence.
>>>RELATED ARTICLE: SHOULD YOU USE RHETORICAL QUESTIONS IN ESSAYS ?
6. Your need to Include an Example
Examples matter! They add detail. They also help to show that you genuinely understand the issue. They show that you don’t just understand a concept in the abstract; you also understand how things work in real life.
Example sentences have the added benefit of personalising an issue. For example, after saying “Polar bears’ habitats are shrinking”, you could note specific habitats, facts and figures, or even a specific story about a bear who was impacted.
Ideal Essay Paragraph Structure Example: Writing an ‘Example’ Sentence “For example, 770,000 square miles of Arctic Sea Ice has melted in the past four decades, leading Polar Bear populations to dwindle ( National Geographic, 2018 )
In fact, one of the most effective politicians of our times – Barrack Obama – was an expert at this technique. He would often provide examples of people who got sick because they didn’t have healthcare to sell Obamacare.
What effect did this have? It showed the real-world impact of his ideas. It humanised him, and got him elected president – twice!
Be like Obama. Provide examples. Often.
7. All Paragraphs need Citations
Provide a reference to an academic source in every single body paragraph in the essay. The only two paragraphs where you don’t need a reference is the introduction and conclusion .
Let me repeat: Paragraphs need at least one reference to a quality scholarly source .
Let me go even further:
Students who get the best marks provide two references to two different academic sources in every paragraph.
Two references in a paragraph show you’ve read widely, cross-checked your sources, and given the paragraph real thought.
It’s really important that these references link to academic sources, not random websites, blogs or YouTube videos. Check out our Seven Best types of Sources to Cite in Essays post to get advice on what sources to cite. Number 6 w ill surprise you!
Ideal Essay Paragraph Structure Example: In-Text Referencing in Paragraphs Usually, in-text referencing takes the format: (Author, YEAR), but check your school’s referencing formatting requirements carefully. The ‘Author’ section is the author’s last name only. Not their initials. Not their first name. Just their last name . My name is Chris Drew. First name Chris, last name Drew. If you were going to reference an academic article I wrote in 2019, you would reference it like this: (Drew, 2019).
Where do you place those two references?
Place the first reference at the end of the first half of the paragraph. Place the second reference at the end of the second half of the paragraph.
This spreads the references out and makes it look like all the points throughout the paragraph are backed up by your sources. The goal is to make it look like you’ve reference regularly when your teacher scans through your work.
Remember, teachers can look out for signposts that indicate you’ve followed academic conventions and mentioned the right key ideas.
Spreading your referencing through the paragraph helps to make it look like you’ve followed the academic convention of referencing sources regularly.
Here are some examples of how to reference twice in a paragraph:
- If your paragraph was six sentences long, you would place your first reference at the end of the third sentence and your second reference at the end of the sixth sentence.
- If your paragraph was five sentences long, I would recommend placing one at the end of the second sentence and one at the end of the fifth sentence.
You’ve just read one of the key secrets to winning top marks.
8. Every Paragraph must be relevant to the Marking Criteria
Every paragraph must win you marks. When you’re editing your work, check through the piece to see if every paragraph is relevant to the marking criteria.
For the British: In the British university system (I’m including Australia and New Zealand here – I’ve taught at universities in all three countries), you’ll usually have a ‘marking criteria’. It’s usually a list of between two and six key learning outcomes your teacher needs to use to come up with your score. Sometimes it’s called a:
- Marking criteria
- Marking rubric
- (Key) learning outcome
- Indicative content
Check your assignment guidance to see if this is present. If so, use this list of learning outcomes to guide what you write. If your paragraphs are irrelevant to these key points, delete the paragraph .
Paragraphs that don’t link to the marking criteria are pointless. They won’t win you marks.
For the Americans: If you don’t have a marking criteria / rubric / outcomes list, you’ll need to stick closely to the essay question or topic. This goes out to those of you in the North American system. North America (including USA and Canada here) is often less structured and the professor might just give you a topic to base your essay on.
If all you’ve got is the essay question / topic, go through each paragraph and make sure each paragraph is relevant to the topic.
For example, if your essay question / topic is on “The Effects of Climate Change on Polar Bears”,
- Don’t talk about anything that doesn’t have some connection to climate change and polar bears;
- Don’t talk about the environmental impact of oil spills in the Gulf of Carpentaria;
- Don’t talk about black bear habitats in British Columbia.
- Do talk about the effects of climate change on polar bears (and relevant related topics) in every single paragraph .
You may think ‘stay relevant’ is obvious advice, but at least 20% of all essays I mark go off on tangents and waste words.
Stay on topic in Every. Single. Paragraph. If you want to learn more about how to stay on topic, check out our essay planning guide .
9. Only have one Key Idea per Paragraph
One key idea for each paragraph. One key idea for each paragraph. One key idea for each paragraph.
Don’t forget!
Too often, a student starts a paragraph talking about one thing and ends it talking about something totally different. Don’t be that student.
To ensure you’re focussing on one key idea in your paragraph, make sure you know what that key idea is. It should be mentioned in your topic sentence (see Point 3 ). Every other sentence in the paragraph adds depth to that one key idea.
If you’ve got sentences in your paragraph that are not relevant to the key idea in the paragraph, they don’t fit. They belong in another paragraph.
Go through all your paragraphs when editing your work and check to see if you’ve veered away from your paragraph’s key idea. If so, you might have two or even three key ideas in the one paragraph.
You’re going to have to get those additional key ideas, rip them out, and give them paragraphs of their own.
If you have more than one key idea in a paragraph you will lose marks. I promise you that.
The paragraphs will be too hard to read, your reader will get bogged down reading rather than scanning, and you’ll have lost grades.
10. Keep Sentences Short
If a sentence is too long it gets confusing. When the sentence is confusing, your reader will stop reading your work. They will stop reading the paragraph and move to the next one. They’ll have given up on your paragraph.
Short, snappy sentences are best.
Shorter sentences are easier to read and they make more sense. Too often, students think they have to use big, long, academic words to get the best marks. Wrong. Aim for clarity in every sentence in the paragraph. Your teacher will thank you for it.
The students who get the best marks write clear, short sentences.
When editing your draft, go through your essay and see if you can shorten your longest five sentences.
(To learn more about how to write the best quality sentences, see our page on Seven ways to Write Amazing Sentences .)
11. Keep Quotes Short
Eighty percent of university teachers hate quotes. That’s not an official figure. It’s my guestimate based on my many interactions in faculty lounges. Twenty percent don’t mind them, but chances are your teacher is one of the eight out of ten who hate quotes.
Teachers tend to be turned off by quotes because it makes it look like you don’t know how to say something on your own words.
Now that I’ve warned you, here’s how to use quotes properly:
Ideal Essay Paragraph Structure Example: How To Use Quotes in University-Level Essay Paragraphs 1. Your quote should be less than one sentence long. 2. Your quote should be less than one sentence long. 3. You should never start a sentence with a quote. 4. You should never end a paragraph with a quote. 5 . You should never use more than five quotes per essay. 6. Your quote should never be longer than one line in a paragraph.
The minute your teacher sees that your quote takes up a large chunk of your paragraph, you’ll have lost marks.
Your teacher will circle the quote, write a snarky comment in the margin, and not even bother to give you points for the key idea in the paragraph.
Avoid quotes, but if you really want to use them, follow those five rules above.
I’ve also provided additional pages outlining Seven tips on how to use Quotes if you want to delve deeper into how, when and where to use quotes in essays. Be warned: quoting in essays is harder than you thought.
![how to structure paragraphs in an essay The basic essay paragraph structure formula includes: 4-6 sentence paragraphs; a clear topic sentence; useful explanations and examples; a focus on one key idea only; and references to two different academic sources.](https://helpfulprofessor.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/09/basic-essay-paragraph-structure-template.jpg)
Follow the advice above and you’ll be well on your way to getting top marks at university.
Writing essay paragraphs that are well structured takes time and practice. Don’t be too hard on yourself and keep on trying!
Below is a summary of our 11 key mistakes for structuring essay paragraphs and tips on how to avoid them.
I’ve also provided an easy-to-share infographic below that you can share on your favorite social networking site. Please share it if this article has helped you out!
11 Biggest Essay Paragraph Structure Mistakes you’re probably Making
1. Your paragraphs are too short 2. Your paragraphs are too long 3. Your paragraph alignment is ‘Justified’ 4. Your paragraphs are missing a topic sentence 5 . Your paragraphs are missing an explanation sentence 6. Your paragraphs are missing an example 7. Your paragraphs are missing references 8. Your paragraphs are not relevant to the marking criteria 9. You’re trying to fit too many ideas into the one paragraph 10. Your sentences are too long 11. Your quotes are too long
![how to structure paragraphs in an essay Chris](https://helpfulprofessor.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/01/Chris-200px-150x150.jpg)
- Chris Drew (PhD) https://helpfulprofessor.com/author/chris-drew-phd/ 101 Hidden Talents Examples
- Chris Drew (PhD) https://helpfulprofessor.com/author/chris-drew-phd/ 15 Green Flags in a Relationship
- Chris Drew (PhD) https://helpfulprofessor.com/author/chris-drew-phd/ 15 Signs you're Burnt Out, Not Lazy
- Chris Drew (PhD) https://helpfulprofessor.com/author/chris-drew-phd/ 15 Toxic Things Parents Say to their Children
4 thoughts on “11 Rules for Essay Paragraph Structure (with Examples)”
Hello there. I noticed that throughout this article on Essay Writing, you keep on saying that the teacher won’t have time to go through the entire essay. Don’t you think this is a bit discouraging that with all the hard work and time put into your writing, to know that the teacher will not read through the entire paper?
![how to structure paragraphs in an essay ' src=](https://helpfulprofessor.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/01/Chris-200px.jpg)
Hi Clarence,
Thanks so much for your comment! I love to hear from readers on their thoughts.
Yes, I agree that it’s incredibly disheartening.
But, I also think students would appreciate hearing the truth.
Behind closed doors many / most university teachers are very open about the fact they ‘only have time to skim-read papers’. They regularly bring this up during heated faculty meetings about contract negotiations! I.e. in one university I worked at, we were allocated 45 minutes per 10,000 words – that’s just over 4 minutes per 1,000 word essay, and that’d include writing the feedback, too!
If students know the truth, they can better write their essays in a way that will get across the key points even from a ‘skim-read’.
I hope to write candidly on this website – i.e. some of this info will never be written on university blogs because universities want to hide these unfortunate truths from students.
Thanks so much for stopping by!
Regards, Chris
This is wonderful and helpful, all I say is thank you very much. Because I learned a lot from this site, own by chris thank you Sir.
Thank you. This helped a lot.
Leave a Comment Cancel Reply
Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *
Writing academically: Paragraph structure
- Academic style
- Personal pronouns
- Contractions
- Abbreviations
- Signposting
Paragraph structure
- Using sources in your writing
Jump to content on this page:
“An appropriate use of paragraphs is an essential part of writing coherent and well-structured essays.” Don Shiach, How to write essays
![how to structure paragraphs in an essay PEEL acronym - Point, evidence, explanation, link](https://libapps-eu.s3.amazonaws.com/accounts/16390/images/PEEL.png)
- A topic sentence – what is the overall point that the paragraph is making?
- Evidence that supports your point – this is usually your cited material.
- Explanation of why the point is important and how it helps with your overall argument.
- A link (if necessary) to the next paragraph (or to the previous one if coming at the beginning of the paragraph) or back to the essay question.
This is a good order to use when you are new to writing academic essays - but as you get more accomplished you can adapt it as necessary. The important thing is to make sure all of these elements are present within the paragraph.
The sections below explain more about each of these elements.
![how to structure paragraphs in an essay](https://libapps-eu.s3.amazonaws.com/accounts/16390/images/idea.png)
The topic sentence (Point)
This should appear early in the paragraph and is often, but not always, the first sentence. It should clearly state the main point that you are making in the paragraph. When you are planning essays, writing down a list of your topic sentences is an excellent way to check that your argument flows well from one point to the next.
![how to structure paragraphs in an essay](https://libapps-eu.s3.amazonaws.com/accounts/16390/images/evidence.png)
This is the evidence that backs up your topic sentence. Why do you believe what you have written in your topic sentence? The evidence is usually paraphrased or quoted material from your reading . Depending on the nature of the assignment, it could also include:
- Your own data (in a research project for example).
- Personal experiences from practice (especially for Social Care, Health Sciences and Education).
- Personal experiences from learning (in a reflective essay for example).
Any evidence from external sources should, of course, be referenced.
Explanation (analysis)
This is the part of your paragraph where you explain to your reader why the evidence supports the point and why that point is relevant to your overall argument. It is where you answer the question 'So what?'. Tell the reader how the information in the paragraph helps you answer the question and how it leads to your conclusion. Your analysis should attempt to persuade the reader that your conclusion is the correct one.
These are the parts of your paragraphs that will get you the higher marks in any marking scheme.
![how to structure paragraphs in an essay](https://libapps-eu.s3.amazonaws.com/accounts/16390/images/link.png)
Links are optional but it will help your argument flow if you include them. They are sentences that help the reader understand how the parts of your argument are connected . Most commonly they come at the end of the paragraph but they can be equally effective at the beginning of the next one. Sometimes a link is split between the end of one paragraph and the beginning of the next (see the example paragraph below).
Paragraph structure video
Length of a paragraph
Academic paragraphs are usually between 200 and 300 words long (they vary more than this but it is a useful guide). The important thing is that they should be long enough to contain all the above material. Only move onto a new paragraph if you are making a new point.
Many students make their paragraphs too short (because they are not including enough or any analysis) or too long (they are made up of several different points).
Example of an academic paragraph
Using storytelling in educational settings can enable educators to connect with their students because of inborn tendencies for humans to listen to stories. Written languages have only existed for between 6,000 and 7,000 years (Daniels & Bright, 1995) before then, and continually ever since in many cultures, important lessons for life were passed on using the oral tradition of storytelling. These varied from simple informative tales, to help us learn how to find food or avoid danger, to more magical and miraculous stories designed to help us see how we can resolve conflict and find our place in society (Zipes, 2012). Oral storytelling traditions are still fundamental to native American culture and Rebecca Bishop, a native American public relations officer (quoted in Sorensen, 2012) believes that the physical act of storytelling is a special thing; children will automatically stop what they are doing and listen when a story is told. Professional communicators report that this continues to adulthood (Simmons, 2006; Stevenson, 2008). This means that storytelling can be a powerful tool for connecting with students of all ages in a way that a list of bullet points in a PowerPoint presentation cannot. The emotional connection and innate, almost hardwired, need to listen when someone tells a story means that educators can teach memorable lessons in a uniquely engaging manner that is common to all cultures.
The cross-cultural element of storytelling can be seen when reading or listening to wisdom tales from around the world...
Key: Topic sentence Evidence (includes some analysis) Analysis Link (crosses into next paragraph)
- << Previous: Signposting
- Next: Using sources in your writing >>
- Last Updated: Aug 16, 2024 3:51 PM
- URL: https://libguides.hull.ac.uk/writing
- Login to LibApps
- Library websites Privacy Policy
- University of Hull privacy policy & cookies
- Website terms and conditions
- Accessibility
- Report a problem
![how to structure paragraphs in an essay The University of Hull](https://dkou0skpxpnwz.cloudfront.net/sites/713/banner/UoH_Secondary_Brandmark_BLACK_RGB.png)
Improve Your Paper by Writing Structured Paragraphs
Download this Handout PDF
In academic writing, effective paragraphs serve as building blocks to construct a complex analysis or argument. Paragraphing helps readers to understand and process your ideas into meaningful units of thought.
What do paragraphs do?
Imagine reading this page without paragraph breaks. Paragraphs create order and logic by helping your reader recognize the boundaries where one point ends and another begins.
How long should a paragraph be?
In a first draft, it may make sense to set a goal for length. For example, you can set a goal of writing four to six sentences per paragraph: in that number of sentences you can announce an idea, prove that idea with evidence, and explain why this evidence matters by linking it to the overall goal of your paper.
In the final version of your paper you may have a shorter paragraph or two. Short paragraphs call a lot of attention to themselves, so they can effectively emphasize a point. Too many short paragraphs, however, may indicate that your ideas are not developed with evidence and analysis.
You’ll generally read and write longer paragraphs in academic papers. However, too many long paragraphs can provide readers with too much information to manage at one time. Readers need planned pauses or breaks when reading long complex papers in order to understand your presented ideas. Remember this writing mantra: “Give your readers a break!” or “Good paragraphs give one pause!”
Kinds of sentences in a paragraph
Thinking about paragraphs rigidly in terms of length may lead to formulaic writing. Instead, as you revise your draft think about how each sentence is functioning in your paragraph, and whether your paragraph has sufficient functional sentences to make its point.
Transition sentences guide your reader smoothly from the topic of the preceding paragraph into the topic of your new paragraph. Writers sometimes begin with a transition sentence before introducing the topic of the new paragraph.
A topic sentence states the main idea of a paragraph. Beginning a paragraph with a topic sentence ensures your reader recognizes early in the paragraph what larger idea the paragraph is going to demonstrate. Expert writers may not introduce the topic until the middle or end of the paragraph, and often imply their topics without ever writing a topic sentence.
Body sentences develop the topic of the paragraph. These sentences work to analyze data or quotations, describe a text or event, set up a comparison, showcase evidence, and sometimes they enumerate the logical points for readers to give them a sense of a paper’s bigger picture. In body sentences, you need to consider how much quoted data or evidence will demonstrate or prove your point.
Linking sentences relate back to the paper’s main argument by showing how the idea of that paragraph matches the overall goal of the paper.
Concluding sentences may bring a section to its end before you move on to a new section of the paper.
Some sample paragraphs
Undergraduate art analysis.
Notice how the writer develops the idea in the body sentences, as promised in the first sentence, and concludes her paragraph by offering a keen, close observation of specific details.
In order to understand how Manet’s work echoes or communicates with Titian’s, one must first consider the similarities between their paintings. To begin with, both take a nude woman as the subject. More than that, however, Manet directly copies the composition of Titian’s Venus; the overwhelming similarity in color and the figures’ arrangement in each painting prove this. Both women are lying in the same position with their heads on the left-hand side of the canvas. Both women have their left leg crossed over the right. Both women have flowers and accessories. Other key elements unite these paintings, as well: the arrangement of the sheets on the bed; the green curtains; the servants; and the small animal at the foot of the bed. All these features clearly indicate that Manet echoes Titian. If one stopped at the similarity in the composition, it would appear that both paintings communicate the same thing; both would be a celebration of the beauty of the human figure, and Manet’s voice would have added nothing new to the conversation; it would have no additional meaning besides venerating the masterful work of Titian. ( Used with permission .)
Undergraduate literary analysis
In this paragraph from a 2012 Lewis Prize-winning English essay, UW–Madison undergraduate Abby Becker organizes her sentences savvily. She first transitions her reader into her topic, then introduces the source of evidence for that paragraph before analyzing that source and returning to the topic with the new critical perspective that her analysis suggests.
In order for a political or social revolution to occur, connections must be formed. More means of communication lead to more opportunities to make connections. In Dos Passos’ The 42nd Parallel, J. Ward Moorehouse focuses on making business connections but never forms any relationships. He explains at a party that “he had come down in a purely unofficial way you understand to make contacts” (249). In business and politics, making contacts denotes an impersonal, removed way of dealing with people. This type of communication does not result in connections. Moorehouse’s connections are for his own political personal gain. There may be a connection but no insight or true relationship. Moorehouse views people as a tool to advance his own business and political agendas demonstrating that connections with people are often made out of selfish, egotistical motives.
Magazine profile
From a September 2006 The Atlantic article , by Marshall Poe, describing Jimmy Wales, Wikipedia, and collaborative knowledge. Notice how the first sentence introduces a philosophical issue that the body sentences define and link to both Wikipedia and Wales’s own personality.
Wales was an advocate of what is generically termed “openness” online. An “open” online community is one with few restrictions on membership or posting-everyone is welcome, and anyone can say anything as long as it’s generally on point and doesn’t include gratuitous ad hominem attacks. Openness fit not only Wales’s idea of objectivism, with its emphasis on reason and rejection of force, but also his mild personality. He doesn’t like to fight. He would rather suffer fools in silence, waiting for them to talk themselves out, than confront them. This patience would serve Wales well in the years to come.
From Spontaneous Gestures Influence Strategy Choices in Problem Solving (2011). UW-Madison Psychology Professor Martha Alibali et al. present empirical research on how children use physical gestures to acquire mathematical problem-solving knowledge. Notice the clarity of expression in the first paragraph’s topic sentence: the writer provides sufficient set-up to prepare readers for the data which comes at the end of each paragraph.
We predicted that participants in the gesture-allowed condition would be less likely than participants in the gesture-prohibited condition to generate the parity strategy, because the availability of gesture would promote use of perceptual-motor strategies instead. This was indeed the case; the proportion of participants who used the parity strategy on at least one trial was .74 in the gesture-allowed condition and .91 in the gesture-prohibited condition, _2(1, N = 85) = 4.17, p = .04 (Fig. 1). Once they generated the parity strategy, most participants (89%) used it on all subsequent trials.
Mechanical engineering
From Mounting methodologies to measure EUV reticle nonflatness (SPIE Proceedings 7470, 2009), by the lab of UW–Madison Professor Roxanne L. Engelstad. Notice how Battula et al. signal the practical consequence of their findings and also suggest that another result would be possible depending on further research.
Unfortunately, to map the entire reticle with a single measurement, a 12 in. beam expander is needed. With such a large optical system, the expander must be held rigidly, not allowing it to tip or tilt. Since the UW-CMC mount must remain vertical to be effective, it cannot be used in this scenario. Consequently, the application of this mount is limited. Thus, a number of new designs have been proposed by industry to address the alignment issues and provide for other options, such as automated handling. Three of these designs are described and evaluated in the following sections.
Literary studies
From Dorothy West’s Paradise: A Biography of Class and Color (2012), by UW–Madison Professor Sherrard-Johnson. Notice how the first two sentences give crucial background information in order to set up the topic sentence.
In Contested Waters: A Social History of Swimming Pools in America, Jeff Wiltse examines how U.S. swimming pools were transformed from interracial single-sex spaces in which class and gender were more important than race to “leisure resorts, where practically everyone in the community except black Americans swam together.” His study then follows what he calls the second social transformation—”when black Americans gained access through legal and social protest” and “white swimmers generally abandoned them for private pools.” The various iterations of West’s story, which discuss the span from 1950 to 1980, fall between these two moments in social and legal history. I am particularly intrigued by how the national history of segregated bathing areas informs the local, particular event described by West. Does the exclusion of blacks from the high beach parallel the segregation of public pools? In the early twentieth century, public bathing spaces were notoriously violent. The Chicago Riot in 1919 was touched off when white bathers threw rocks at black teenagers who had drifted into a white beach on Lake Michigan. Northerners’ use of pools during the Progressive era reinforced class and gender but not racial distinction. Working-class folk did not swim with the upper classes, but they were not as concerned about color. Following the Great Migration, the concerns about intimacy and sexuality that have always been latent in conversations about public space (in particular the public space of the pool) were directed at blacks. The peculiar democracy of the beach—in bathing suits it is more difficulty to determine class‐worked against black Americans. Wiltse marks this shift between the years of 1920 and 1940. The social changes that took place during this period shape West’s complex politics. (26)
Legal writing
Former UW–Madison School of Law Professor Arthur F. McEvoy wrote this model paragraph as part of a memorandum on effective writing. Notice that each of the body sentences illustrates and develops the main idea or topic sentence.
The ideal paragraph contains five sentences. The topic sentence almost always comes first and states as clearly as possible the point that the paragraph makes, just as the first sentence of this paragraph did. The three middle sentences of the paragraph follow the topic sentence in some rational order and substantiate it with examples, analysis, or other kind of development; if written clearly, middle sentences may employ conjunctions or subordinate clauses to put across complex ideas without breaking the basic form. Every well-written paragraph ends with a “clincher” sentence that in some way signals completion of the paragraph’s point and places it in context, either by restating the topic sentence, relating the topic back to the thesis of the writing as a whole, or by providing a transition to the paragraph that follows. While good style may require a writer to vary this basic form occasionally, the five-sentence model captures the Platonic essence of the paragraph and most effectively accomplishes its purpose, which is to state a single idea, in sequence, discretely and comprehensively.
![how to structure paragraphs in an essay](https://writing.wisc.edu/wp-content/uploads/sites/535/2018/07/Screen-Shot-2019-08-06-at-6.26.02-PM-e1565383158628.png)
Writing Process and Structure
This is an accordion element with a series of buttons that open and close related content panels.
Getting Started with Your Paper
Interpreting Writing Assignments from Your Courses
Generating Ideas for Your Paper
Creating an Argument
Thesis vs. Purpose Statements
Developing a Thesis Statement
Architecture of Arguments
Working with Sources
Quoting and Paraphrasing Sources
Using Literary Quotations
Citing Sources in Your Paper
Drafting Your Paper
Introductions
Paragraphing
Developing Strategic Transitions
Conclusions
Revising Your Paper
Peer Reviews
Reverse Outlines
Revising an Argumentative Paper
Revision Strategies for Longer Projects
Finishing Your Paper
Twelve Common Errors: An Editing Checklist
How to Proofread your Paper
Writing Collaboratively
Collaborative and Group Writing
Purdue Online Writing Lab Purdue OWL® College of Liberal Arts
On Paragraphs
![how to structure paragraphs in an essay OWL logo](https://owl.purdue.edu/images/logos/owllogo_black.png)
Welcome to the Purdue OWL
This page is brought to you by the OWL at Purdue University. When printing this page, you must include the entire legal notice.
Copyright ©1995-2018 by The Writing Lab & The OWL at Purdue and Purdue University. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, reproduced, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed without permission. Use of this site constitutes acceptance of our terms and conditions of fair use.
What is a paragraph?
A paragraph is a collection of related sentences dealing with a single topic. Learning to write good paragraphs will help you as a writer stay on track during your drafting and revision stages. Good paragraphing also greatly assists your readers in following a piece of writing. You can have fantastic ideas, but if those ideas aren't presented in an organized fashion, you will lose your readers (and fail to achieve your goals in writing).
The Basic Rule: Keep one idea to one paragraph
The basic rule of thumb with paragraphing is to keep one idea to one paragraph. If you begin to transition into a new idea, it belongs in a new paragraph. There are some simple ways to tell if you are on the same topic or a new one. You can have one idea and several bits of supporting evidence within a single paragraph. You can also have several points in a single paragraph as long as they relate to the overall topic of the paragraph. If the single points start to get long, then perhaps elaborating on each of them and placing them in their own paragraphs is the route to go.
Elements of a paragraph
To be as effective as possible, a paragraph should contain each of the following: Unity, Coherence, A Topic Sentence, and Adequate Development. As you will see, all of these traits overlap. Using and adapting them to your individual purposes will help you construct effective paragraphs.
The entire paragraph should concern itself with a single focus. If it begins with one focus or major point of discussion, it should not end with another or wander within different ideas.
Coherence is the trait that makes the paragraph easily understandable to a reader. You can help create coherence in your paragraphs by creating logical bridges and verbal bridges.
Logical bridges
- The same idea of a topic is carried over from sentence to sentence
- Successive sentences can be constructed in parallel form
Verbal bridges
- Key words can be repeated in several sentences
- Synonymous words can be repeated in several sentences
- Pronouns can refer to nouns in previous sentences
- Transition words can be used to link ideas from different sentences
A topic sentence
A topic sentence is a sentence that indicates in a general way what idea or thesis the paragraph is going to deal with. Although not all paragraphs have clear-cut topic sentences, and despite the fact that topic sentences can occur anywhere in the paragraph (as the first sentence, the last sentence, or somewhere in the middle), an easy way to make sure your reader understands the topic of the paragraph is to put your topic sentence near the beginning of the paragraph. (This is a good general rule for less experienced writers, although it is not the only way to do it). Regardless of whether you include an explicit topic sentence or not, you should be able to easily summarize what the paragraph is about.
Adequate development
The topic (which is introduced by the topic sentence) should be discussed fully and adequately. Again, this varies from paragraph to paragraph, depending on the author's purpose, but writers should be wary of paragraphs that only have two or three sentences. It's a pretty good bet that the paragraph is not fully developed if it is that short.
Some methods to make sure your paragraph is well-developed:
- Use examples and illustrations
- Cite data (facts, statistics, evidence, details, and others)
- Examine testimony (what other people say such as quotes and paraphrases)
- Use an anecdote or story
- Define terms in the paragraph
- Compare and contrast
- Evaluate causes and reasons
- Examine effects and consequences
- Analyze the topic
- Describe the topic
- Offer a chronology of an event (time segments)
How do I know when to start a new paragraph?
You should start a new paragraph when:
- When you begin a new idea or point. New ideas should always start in new paragraphs. If you have an extended idea that spans multiple paragraphs, each new point within that idea should have its own paragraph.
- To contrast information or ideas. Separate paragraphs can serve to contrast sides in a debate, different points in an argument, or any other difference.
- When your readers need a pause. Breaks between paragraphs function as a short "break" for your readers—adding these in will help your writing be more readable. You would create a break if the paragraph becomes too long or the material is complex.
- When you are ending your introduction or starting your conclusion. Your introductory and concluding material should always be in a new paragraph. Many introductions and conclusions have multiple paragraphs depending on their content, length, and the writer's purpose.
Transitions and signposts
Two very important elements of paragraphing are signposts and transitions. Signposts are internal aids to assist readers; they usually consist of several sentences or a paragraph outlining what the article has covered and where the article will be going.
Transitions are usually one or several sentences that "transition" from one idea to the next. Transitions can be used at the end of most paragraphs to help the paragraphs flow one into the next.
- Current Students
- News & Press
- Exam Technique for In-Person Exams
- Revising for 24 Hour Take Home Exams
- Introduction to 24 Hour Take Home Exams
- Before the 24 Hour Take Home Exam
- Exam Technique for 24 Hour Take Home Exams
- Structuring a Literature Review
- Writing Coursework under Time Constraints
- Reflective Writing
- Writing a Synopsis
- Structuring a Science Report
- Presentations
- How the University works out your degree award
- Accessing your assignment feedback via Canvas
- Inspera Digital Exams
- Writing Introductions and Conclusions
Paragraphing
- Reporting Verbs
![](http://serviteca.online/777/templates/cheerup2/res/banner1.gif)
Signposting
- Proofreading
- Working with a Proofreader
- Writing Concisely
- The 1-Hour Writing Challenge
- Editing strategies
- Apostrophes
- Semi-colons
- Run-on sentences
- How to Improve your Grammar (native English)
- How to Improve your Grammar (non-native English)
- Independent Learning for Online Study
- Reflective Practice
- Academic Reading
- Strategic Reading Framework
- Note-taking Strategies
- Note-taking in Lectures
- Making Notes from Reading
- Using Evidence to Support your Argument
- Integrating Scholarship
- Managing Time and Motivation
- Dealing with Procrastination
- How to Paraphrase
- Quote or Paraphrase?
- How to Quote
- Referencing
- Responsible and Ethical use of AI
- Acknowledging use of AI
- Numeracy, Maths & Statistics
- Library Search
- Search Techniques
- Keeping up to date
- Evaluating Information
- Managing Information
- Understanding Artificial Intelligence
- Getting started with prompts
- Thinking Critically about AI
- Using Information generated by AI
- SensusAccess
- Develop Your Digital Skills
- Digital Tools to Help You Study
![how to structure paragraphs in an essay how to structure paragraphs in an essay](https://www.ncl.ac.uk/mediav8/academic-skills-kit/headers/HEADER Writing.jpg)
Find out how to structure an academic paragraph.
- Newcastle University
- Academic Skills Kit
- Academic Writing
Academic Writing has its own conventions, not just in terms of style and language, but also structure, and the use of paragraphs is one of those conventions.Paragraphs don’t just make a text easier to read by breaking it up on the page. They are a key tool in creating and signposting structure in academic writing, as they are the building blocks of an argument, separating each point and showing how they link together to form the structure. They also have a characteristic structure of their own.
View enlarged image
![how to structure paragraphs in an essay Powerpoint slide](https://www.ncl.ac.uk/mediav8/academic-skills-kit/dual-panels/DUAL PANEL Writing Academic Writing Paragraphing.jpg)
Paragraphs and points
A common piece of advice is ‘one point per paragraph’. This can be a little hard to put into practice – what counts as ‘a point’? The whole assignment could be said to be making a point, and each sentence also makes a point. Another way to think of it is that a point in this sense is a statement of argument or observation that contributes a significant and essential step in your whole structure, without which your conclusion will be weakened. A point like this can’t stand on its own without being further unpacked with evidence, explanation, interpretation etc, which is the job of the rest of the paragraph. You should be able to get the overall gist and structure of an academic text by just reading the first line of each paragraph.
Topic sentences
This point is usually the first (in some cases the second) sentence of the paragraph, commonly known as the topic sentence. The point made is usually an argumentative statement which needs to be demonstrated or an observation which needs to be interpreted or explained (the former is more common in Arts, Humanities and Social Sciences; the latter is more common in the sciences, but they can be found in both). The topic sentence introduces the main idea of the paragraph, usually with a key word which echoes the signposting language from the introduction so the reader recognises it. It also moves from what we know (the old keyword) to the new information (the new keyword), showing how the paragraph builds on what has gone before. It also indicates how it connects to the previous paragraph with a signpost word. This linking should be as brief as possible, as the longer your reader has to wait or the more they have to search for the new idea, the more confused they are likely to become.
Paragraph structure
Academic paragraphs work like court reports rather than murder mysteries; start with the end result and then explain how you got there, rather than taking the reader on an exploration with the purpose only revealed at the end. One simple model for paragraph structure is PEEL: Point, Evidence, Evaluation, Link (to the assignment topic or next paragraph). This is a good starting point, but you may find it too rigid and restrictive for what you need to do, or too clumsy and repetitive in constantly linking back or forward. Look at some of the paragraphs in the academic books or articles you’re reading and see how they are structured and how often they fit this model, and how they vary. Average paragraph length varies depending on your subject - Arts, Humanities and Social Sciences tend to use longer paragraphs than in the sciences.
Sentence structure
In English, the reader prioritises the information which is at the start of the sentence (they are front-loaded). Sentence length varies according to personal taste and discipline convention, but overly long sentences can mean that later elements get overlooked or the sentence coherence breaks down. If your sentence contains several important elements, then it might be best to split into two or more sentences so that each one gets its own spotlight. You can use signposting words to make the connection between them clear. Compare these two versions. Which is better?
In English, sentences are ‘front-loaded’ so the most important information appears early on, and later information may be lost, meaning that writers might separate very long sentences and use signpost words to demonstrate the link.
In English, sentences are ‘front-loaded’ so the most important information appears early on. Later information may be lost as a result. Writers might therefore separate very long sentences and use signpost words to demonstrate the link.
Troubleshooting
- You’re not sure which is your topic sentence.
- Your reader gives you the feedback that your point isn’t clear (or that your writing is too descriptive).
Your main point is likely to be buried somewhere in your paragraph, or there isn’t a clear focus. This could be an issue with planning, or that you are still working your ideas out as you write. Ask yourself: if you could only keep one sentence from each paragraph, which one would it be? That is most likely an idea, argument or observation of your own rather than from your reading. This is likely to be your topic sentence, and should be placed at the start of your paragraph. Your reader should be able to follow your overall structure by reading the first line of each paragraph, to capture your points. If the first line of your paragraph is just a descriptive fact or quote from someone else, then they aren’t going to get a sense of your argument.
- Your paragraphs are very long.
- More than one of your sentences could be your topic sentence.
You may have some less relevant material which isn’t essential to making your point, or your paragraph may be making two related points rather than one. If you ask ‘if I could only keep one sentence from this paragraph, which would it be?’ and can’t decide between two sentences, then you may have two points which would be better developed separately in two paragraphs. You could also look at each sentence and decide if it’s necessary or just nice to have, and whether your overall point would be undermined if you removed it, or if it just adds interest but is not strictly essential.
- Your paragraphs are very short.
- Your feedback suggests that you need to ‘unpack’ or ‘expand’ your points.
You may have an isolated fragment which on your plan looked like it might be enough for a paragraph but didn’t work out being very much when you came to write it up. This would be better integrated into another paragraph if it fits, or cut if it doesn’t. You may instead have skipped some of your reasoning, not developing your point fully with all of the evidence and explanation needed, and instead assuming that your reader is following you. In this case, try analysing what you have written and after each sentence (or part of a sentence), identify what questions the reader might ask about that to be convinced of it, such as ‘what does that mean? How do you know? Why / how does that happen? What is the significance of that? How does that prove your point?’ If you haven’t answered any of the questions that occur to you, you may need to expand on that aspect more fully.
Download this guide as a PDF
Find out how to structure an academic paragraph. **PDF Download**
More in this section
Reporting verbs.
Explore different ways of referring to literature and foregrounding your voice.
Explore different ways of guiding the reader through your assignment.
How to Write a Paragraph in an Essay
#scribendiinc
Written by Scribendi
The deadline for your essay is looming, but you're still not sure how to write your essay paragraphs or how to structure them. If that's you, then you're in good hands.
After the content of your essay, the structure is the most important part. How you arrange your thoughts in an essay can either support your argument or confuse the reader. The difference comes down to your knowledge of how to write a paragraph to create structure and flow in an essay.
At its most basic level, an essay paragraph comprises the following elements: (1) a topic sentence, (2) sentences that develop and support the topic sentence, and (3) a concluding sentence.
Also, when writing a paragraph or essay , keep in mind that most essays follow the five-paragraph model. This model involves writing an introductory paragraph, three paragraphs of supporting arguments, and a conclusion paragraph.
In most cases, a paper of this length just won't cut it. However, remembering this formula can help you write key paragraphs in your essay, such as an introduction that states the main hypothesis, a body that supports this argument, and a conclusion that ties everything together.
Let's break down how to write a paragraph so you can get that essay written.
![how to structure paragraphs in an essay How to Write a Paragraph in an Essay](https://www.scribendi.com/images/cms/Blog_2022/How-to-Write-a-Paragraph-in-an-Essay.jpg)
Writing a paragraph means grouping together sentences that focus on the same topic so that the important points are easy to understand. In the body of an essay, each paragraph functions as its own point or argument that backs up the essay's main hypothesis. Each paragraph also includes evidence that supports each argument made.
It helps to separate each paragraph idea in a quick essay outline before you start writing your paragraphs so you can organize your thoughts. It is also helpful to link each paragraph in a cohesive way that supports your hypothesis. For good paragraph writing to work, your readers will need to be able to clearly follow the ideas you're presenting throughout your essay.
Essay paragraphs are important for organizing topics and thoughts and for creating readability and flow. Readers often skip large blocks of writing in blog posts, articles, or essays. It can be confusing when there are no breaks between different ideas or when thoughts flow one into the next without any discernible pauses. Knowing how to write a paragraph to help break up your content and ideas is essential for avoiding this.
Elevate Your Writing with Professional Editing
Hire one of our expert editors , or get a free sample.
Writing a paragraph is easier when you follow a structure. An essay paragraph consists of around 250 words , with the sentence count varying from five to six or more, depending on the type of essay you're writing.
The structure of an essay paragraph includes the following:
- A topic sentence at the beginning of the paragraph that clearly states one idea
- Supporting sentences that explain the idea in the topic sentence and provide evidence to back up that idea
- A concluding sentence that links back to the original topic sentence idea and segues to the next paragraph
Following this basic structure will ensure that you never have to wonder how to write a paragraph and will keep your essay structure consistent.
What Is a Topic Sentence?
All good paragraph writing starts with a topic sentence. The topic sentence provides a brief summary of the content. In an essay's body, each paragraph begins with a topic sentence.
The topic sentence gives structure to a paragraph the same way a thesis gives structure to an essay. Both a thesis and a topic sentence state the main idea that drives the rest of the content. In the case of a paragraph, the topic sentence drives the rest of the paragraph content, and in the case of an essay, the thesis drives the rest of the essay content.
When writing a topic sentence, keep in mind that it should be
- The first sentence of your paragraph
- Specific, focusing on a specific area of your thesis statement
- The focus of your paragraph
There are two parts to every topic sentence: the topic, which is what the paragraph will be about, and the controlling idea, which is the paragraph's direction. For example, if your paragraph was about hamsters being great pets, that would be your topic, but your controlling idea might be that there are many reasons why hamsters are great pets.
A paragraph example with a good topic sentence would start out something like this:
Hamsters are great pets for many reasons. They don't require extensive training, so no time-consuming obedience courses are necessary. They are also relatively inexpensive to own when compared to dogs or cats because they're low-maintenance.
Examples of Effective Hooks
A paragraph in an essay should always use an effective hook. If you're hoping to grab the attention of your reader, it helps to start your paragraph with a compelling statement or question that will be of interest.
Here are a few examples to use for inspiration:
Most people would rather work to live than live to work, and the gig economy makes this possible.
How important is it for today's influencers to rely on Instagram?
Daily sugar intake has reached a staggering average of 25 teaspoons per person in the United States.
Supporting Sentences
Writing an essay paragraph is like building an effective and functional house. In the same way that each room has a purpose, each paragraph in your essay should have its own separate topic with supporting sentences . Paragraph writing can be simple if you think of it this way!
The goal of supporting sentences is to provide evidence validating each topic in your paragraph. Each sentence provides details to help your reader understand the paragraph's main idea.
If you have trouble coming up with supporting sentences to develop the main idea in your paragraph, try rephrasing your topic sentence as a question. For example, if you're writing about how all babies have three basic needs, ask, what are the three basic needs of all babies?
At the end of your supporting sentences, add a concluding sentence that ties everything to the main argument of your essay. Repeat this for each supporting argument, and you'll have mastered the concept of how to write a paragraph. Read on for a paragraph example with supporting sentences.
Supporting Sentence Examples
To get a feel for how to use supporting sentences in a paragraph in an essay, check out this basic example:
Babies have three basic needs. First, babies need food. Depending on their age, they'll drink formula for their first meals and graduate to soft baby food later. Second, they need shelter. Babies need a safe place to live. Third, they need support. They need someone loving to look out for them and take care of them.
![how to structure paragraphs in an essay Writing a Paragraph](https://www.scribendi.com/images/cms/Blog_2022/Writing-a-Paragraph.jpg)
How to Use Transitions
Knowing how to write a paragraph involves knowing how to use transitions .
Good essay paragraphs have transitions that help ideas flow clearly from one to the next. Given that your essay will include many different ideas and subtopics, your transitions will ensure that your information and ideas are well connected.
If you're not familiar with transitions, they are words or phrases that connect ideas. They signal a connection between your topic sentence and your supporting sentences, but they also help readers connect ideas between paragraphs.
At the beginning of a sentence, use a transition to segue into a new idea. At the beginning of each paragraph, use a transition to signal a new concept or idea that you will discuss.
However, try to avoid one-word transitions at the beginning of a paragraph, like "Since" or "While," because they don't usually provide enough information. Instead, try using transitional phrases between paragraphs (instead of words), such as "On the other hand" or "In addition to."
Examples of Transitions
Here are a few examples of transitions — both one-word transitions and transitional phrases — to use in the paragraphs of your essay:
- As a result
- For example
- By the same token
- Consequently
- In the meantime
- To summarize
- To conclude
- Undoubtedly
- Subsequently
Writing a paragraph in an essay can be simple if you understand basic paragraph structure. Additionally, it's helpful to keep in mind the structure of an essay and how each essay paragraph links together to form a fully developed argument or idea.
Creating an outline before you start writing your essay—which can also be described as a blueprint (to return to the metaphor of building a house)—is a great way to effectively arrange your topics, support your argument, and guide your writing.
Knowing how to write a paragraph is essential to communicating your thoughts and research, no matter the topic, in a way that is readable and coherent.
How Long Is a Paragraph?
An essay paragraph can vary in length depending on a variety of factors, such as the essay's type, topic, or requirements. Generally, essay paragraphs are three to five or more sentences, since each paragraph should have a fully developed idea with a beginning, middle, and end.
However, all essays are different, and there are no hard and fast rules that dictate paragraph length. So, here are some guidelines to follow while writing a paragraph:
- Stick to one idea per paragraph.
- Keep your paragraphs roughly the same length.
- Ensure that each page of your essay has 2 – 3 paragraphs.
- Combine shorter paragraphs into a larger one if the smaller paragraphs work together to express a single idea.
Overall, it's the paragraph writing itself that dictates a paragraph's length. Don't get too caught up in trying to reach a specific word count or number of sentences. Understanding this concept is key to knowing how to write a paragraph that conveys a clear and fully developed idea.
How Do I Know When to Start a New Paragraph?
A new essay paragraph will always signal a new point or idea. Before you think about starting a new paragraph, ask yourself whether you are about to discuss something new that you haven't brought up yet. If the answer is yes, it warrants a new paragraph.
The end of a paragraph functions as a break for your reader. If you've successfully developed and concluded an idea, you'll know that it's time to begin a new paragraph, especially if the material is long or complex.
Every essay should have an introductory paragraph and a conclusion paragraph. But as long as you keep in mind that good paragraph writing means starting off with a new idea each time, you're in a good position to know when a new paragraph should begin.
How Many Paragraphs Do I Need in My Essay?
The number of paragraphs you write in an essay will largely depend on the requirements of the essay. These requirements are usually dictated by an instructor.
For a short, 1-page essay, your instructor might require only three paragraphs. For a longer, 2- to 3-page essay, you might need five paragraphs. For longer essays, there could be up to seven to nine paragraphs. Any essay with more paragraphs than that is usually deemed a thesis or a research paper.
At a minimum, an essay will always have at least three paragraphs: an introductory paragraph, a body paragraph, and a conclusion paragraph. Depending on the required word or page count or the type of essay (argumentative, informative, etc.), your essay could have multiple paragraphs expanding on different points. An argumentative essay, for example, should have at least five paragraphs.
Therefore, the most important question to ask when deciding on your number of essay paragraphs is this: What does my professor expect from me?
Ask a Professional to Edit Your Essay
About the author.
![Scribendi Editing and Proofreading Scribendi Editing and Proofreading](https://www.scribendi.com/images/cms/Author_Bios/Scribendi-Logo-Solid-Final-HD.jpg)
Scribendi's in-house editors work with writers from all over the globe to perfect their writing. They know that no piece of writing is complete without a professional edit, and they love to see a good piece of writing transformed into a great one. Scribendi's in-house editors are unrivaled in both experience and education, having collectively edited millions of words and obtained numerous degrees. They love consuming caffeinated beverages, reading books of various genres, and relaxing in quiet, dimly lit spaces.
Have You Read?
"The Complete Beginner's Guide to Academic Writing"
Related Posts
![how to structure paragraphs in an essay Essay Writing Help](https://www.scribendi.com/images/cms/thumbnails/Essay-Writing-Help-1_848x370.jpg)
Essay Writing Help
![how to structure paragraphs in an essay How to Improve Essay Writing Skills](https://www.scribendi.com/images/cms/thumbnails/Improve-Your-Essay-Writing-Skills_720x370.jpg)
How to Improve Essay Writing Skills
![how to structure paragraphs in an essay How to Write an Introduction to an Essay](https://www.scribendi.com/images/cms/thumbnails/How-to-Write-an-Introduction_848x370.jpg)
How to Write an Introduction to an Essay
Upload your file(s) so we can calculate your word count, or enter your word count manually.
We will also recommend a service based on the file(s) you upload.
File | Word Count | Include in Price? |
---|
English is not my first language. I need English editing and proofreading so that I sound like a native speaker.
I need to have my journal article, dissertation, or term paper edited and proofread, or I need help with an admissions essay or proposal.
I have a novel, manuscript, play, or ebook. I need editing, copy editing, proofreading, a critique of my work, or a query package.
I need editing and proofreading for my white papers, reports, manuals, press releases, marketing materials, and other business documents.
I need to have my essay, project, assignment, or term paper edited and proofread.
I want to sound professional and to get hired. I have a resume, letter, email, or personal document that I need to have edited and proofread.
Prices include your personal % discount.
Prices include % sales tax ( ).
![how to structure paragraphs in an essay how to structure paragraphs in an essay](https://www.scribendi.com/images/quote-widget/digicert-seal.jpg)
![how to structure paragraphs in an essay Wilfrid Laurier University](https://students.wlu.ca/common/images/site/logos/Laurier_PURPLE_rgb_LRG.png)
My Timetable
LOG IN to show content
My Quick Links
![how to structure paragraphs in an essay](https://students.wlu.ca/academics/support-and-advising/writing-support/assets/images/grammar-and-style.jpg)
How to structure an academic paragraph
Because academic writing is primarily about creating and sharing knowledge, there is a straightforward way to organize your paragraphs that helps convey the most important information easily. It also helps to make clear your critical thinking for your professor.
Make Your Paragraph a M.E.A.L.
There are various ways to organize an academic paragraph, but here is a basic acronym you can follow to help you structure your writing at the paragraph level: M.E.A.L.
M: Main Point Sentence
The first sentence of your paragraph states the main point of the paragraph and often connects back to the paper’s thesis.
For example:
A second theme that emerges from the sources is .
E: Evidence
These sentences use quotations, paraphrases, statistics, examples, and/or illustrations to develop and support the main point of your paragraph.
XX write that, “ ” (citation).
A: Analysis/Synthesis
These sentences express your views on the evidence and show why the evidence is significant or important for the main point of the paragraph.
In other words, XX helps us see that .
L: Linking-Back Sentence
This final sentence mirrors the main point sentence and restates the main point of the paragraph.
In sum, by stating these arguments, these sources highlight [the theme].
Let’s Put It All Together
M: A second theme that emerges from the sources is . E: XX write that, “ ” (citation). A: In other words, the is important for . E: Similarly, YY addresses the same theme when they write, “ ” (citation). A: What they help us see here is . E: Further, both sources offer insights on [the theme] by arguing that . L: In sum, by stating these arguments, these sources highlight [the theme].
By using the M.E.A.L acronym to structure your academic paragraph you ensure that your main point is clearly stated, your analysis effectively supported, and your critical thinking made visible for your professor.
Contact Us: Writing Services
Waterloo campus
Brantford campus
Search for academic programs , residence , tours and events and more.
Essay Papers Writing Online
Ultimate guide to writing a five paragraph essay.
![Ultimate Guide to Writing a Five Paragraph Essay How to write a five paragraph essay](https://studbaywritingvip.com/wp-content/images/how-to-write-a-five-paragraph-essay.jpg)
Are you struggling with writing essays? Do you find yourself lost in a sea of ideas, unable to structure your thoughts cohesively? The five paragraph essay is a tried-and-true method that can guide you through the writing process with ease. By mastering this format, you can unlock the key to successful and organized writing.
In this article, we will break down the five paragraph essay into easy steps that anyone can follow. From crafting a strong thesis statement to effectively supporting your arguments, we will cover all the essential components of a well-written essay. Whether you are a beginner or a seasoned writer, these tips will help you hone your skills and express your ideas clearly.
Step-by-Step Guide to Mastering the Five Paragraph Essay
Writing a successful five paragraph essay can seem like a daunting task, but with the right approach and strategies, it can become much more manageable. Follow these steps to master the art of writing a powerful five paragraph essay:
- Understand the structure: The five paragraph essay consists of an introduction, three body paragraphs, and a conclusion. Each paragraph serves a specific purpose in conveying your message effectively.
- Brainstorm and plan: Before you start writing, take the time to brainstorm ideas and create an outline. This will help you organize your thoughts and ensure that your essay flows smoothly.
- Write the introduction: Start your essay with a strong hook to grab the reader’s attention. Your introduction should also include a thesis statement, which is the main argument of your essay.
- Develop the body paragraphs: Each body paragraph should focus on a single point that supports your thesis. Use evidence, examples, and analysis to strengthen your argument and make your points clear.
- Conclude effectively: In your conclusion, summarize your main points and restate your thesis in a new way. Leave the reader with a thought-provoking statement or a call to action.
By following these steps and practicing regularly, you can become proficient in writing five paragraph essays that are clear, coherent, and impactful. Remember to revise and edit your work for grammar, punctuation, and clarity to ensure that your essay is polished and professional.
Understanding the Structure of a Five Paragraph Essay
![how to structure paragraphs in an essay Understanding the Structure of a Five Paragraph Essay](https://studbaywritingvip.com/wp-content/images/how-to-write-a-five-paragraph-essay-shmkhq9q.jpg)
When writing a five paragraph essay, it is important to understand the basic structure that makes up this type of essay. The five paragraph essay consists of an introduction, three body paragraphs, and a conclusion.
Introduction: The introduction is the first paragraph of the essay and sets the tone for the rest of the piece. It should include a hook to grab the reader’s attention, a thesis statement that presents the main idea of the essay, and a brief overview of what will be discussed in the body paragraphs.
Body Paragraphs: The body paragraphs make up the core of the essay and each paragraph should focus on a single point that supports the thesis statement. These paragraphs should include a topic sentence that introduces the main idea, supporting details or evidence, and explanations or analysis of how the evidence supports the thesis.
Conclusion: The conclusion is the final paragraph of the essay and it should summarize the main points discussed in the body paragraphs. It should restate the thesis in different words, and provide a closing thought or reflection on the topic.
By understanding the structure of a five paragraph essay, writers can effectively organize their thoughts and present their ideas in a clear and coherent manner.
Choosing a Strong Thesis Statement
One of the most critical elements of a successful five-paragraph essay is a strong thesis statement. Your thesis statement should clearly and concisely present the main argument or point you will be making in your essay. It serves as the foundation for the entire essay, guiding the reader on what to expect and helping you stay focused throughout your writing.
When choosing a thesis statement, it’s important to make sure it is specific, debatable, and relevant to your topic. Avoid vague statements or generalizations, as they will weaken your argument and fail to provide a clear direction for your essay. Instead, choose a thesis statement that is narrow enough to be effectively supported within the confines of a five-paragraph essay, but broad enough to allow for meaningful discussion.
Tip 1: | Brainstorm several potential thesis statements before settling on one. Consider different angles or perspectives on your topic to find the most compelling argument. |
Tip 2: | Make sure your thesis statement is arguable. You want to present a position that can be debated or challenged, as this will lead to a more engaging and persuasive essay. |
Tip 3: | Ensure your thesis statement directly addresses the prompt or question you are responding to. It should be relevant to the assigned topic and provide a clear focus for your essay. |
By choosing a strong thesis statement, you set yourself up for a successful essay that is well-organized, coherent, and persuasive. Take the time to carefully craft your thesis statement, as it will serve as the guiding force behind your entire essay.
Developing Supporting Arguments in Body Paragraphs
When crafting the body paragraphs of your five paragraph essay, it is crucial to develop strong and coherent supporting arguments that back up your thesis statement. Each body paragraph should focus on a single supporting argument that contributes to the overall discussion of your topic.
To effectively develop your supporting arguments, consider using a table to organize your ideas. Start by listing your main argument in the left column, and then provide evidence, examples, and analysis in the right column. This structured approach can help you ensure that each supporting argument is fully developed and logically presented.
Additionally, be sure to use transitional phrases to smoothly connect your supporting arguments within and between paragraphs. Words like “furthermore,” “in addition,” and “on the other hand” can help readers follow your train of thought and understand the progression of your ideas.
Remember, the body paragraphs are where you provide the meat of your argument, so take the time to develop each supporting argument thoroughly and clearly. By presenting compelling evidence and analysis, you can effectively persuade your readers and strengthen the overall impact of your essay.
Polishing Your Writing: Editing and Proofreading Tips
Editing and proofreading are crucial steps in the writing process that can make a significant difference in the clarity and effectiveness of your essay. Here are some tips to help you polish your writing:
1. Take a break before editing: After you finish writing your essay, take a break before starting the editing process. This will help you approach your work with fresh eyes and catch mistakes more easily.
2. Read your essay aloud: Reading your essay aloud can help you identify awkward phrasing, grammar errors, and inconsistencies. This technique can also help you evaluate the flow and coherence of your writing.
3. Use a spelling and grammar checker: Utilize spelling and grammar checkers available in word processing software to catch common errors. However, be mindful that these tools may not catch all mistakes, so it’s essential to manually review your essay as well.
4. Check for coherence and organization: Make sure your ideas flow logically and cohesively throughout your essay. Ensure that each paragraph connects smoothly to the next, and that your arguments are supported by relevant evidence.
5. Look for consistency: Check for consistency in your writing style, tone, and formatting. Ensure that you maintain a consistent voice and perspective throughout your essay to keep your argument coherent.
6. Seek feedback from others: Consider asking a peer, teacher, or tutor to review your essay and provide feedback. External perspectives can help you identify blind spots and areas for improvement in your writing.
7. Proofread carefully: Finally, proofread your essay carefully to catch any remaining errors in spelling, grammar, punctuation, and formatting. Pay attention to details and make any necessary revisions before submitting your final draft.
By following these editing and proofreading tips, you can refine your writing and ensure that your essay is polished and ready for submission.
Tips for Successful Writing: Practice and Feedback
Writing is a skill that improves with practice. The more you write, the better you will become. Set aside time each day to practice writing essays, paragraph by paragraph. This consistent practice will help you develop your writing skills and grow more confident in expressing your ideas.
Seek feedback from your teachers, peers, or mentors. Constructive criticism can help you identify areas for improvement and provide valuable insights into your writing. Take their suggestions into consideration and use them to refine your writing style and structure.
- Set writing goals for yourself and track your progress. Whether it’s completing a certain number of essays in a week or improving your introductions, having specific goals will keep you motivated and focused on your writing development.
- Read widely to expand your vocabulary and expose yourself to different writing styles. The more you read, the more you will learn about effective writing techniques and ways to engage your readers.
- Revise and edit your essays carefully. Pay attention to sentence structure, grammar, punctuation, and spelling. A well-polished essay will demonstrate your attention to detail and dedication to producing high-quality work.
Related Post
How to master the art of writing expository essays and captivate your audience, convenient and reliable source to purchase college essays online, step-by-step guide to crafting a powerful literary analysis essay, unlock success with a comprehensive business research paper example guide, unlock your writing potential with writers college – transform your passion into profession, “unlocking the secrets of academic success – navigating the world of research papers in college”, master the art of sociological expression – elevate your writing skills in sociology.
A clear, arguable thesis will tell your readers where you are going to end up, but it can also help you figure out how to get them there. Put your thesis at the top of a blank page and then make a list of the points you will need to make to argue that thesis effectively.
For example, consider this example from the thesis handout : While Sandel argues persuasively that our instinct to “remake”(54) ourselves into something ever more perfect is a problem, his belief that we can always draw a line between what is medically necessary and what makes us simply “better than well”(51) is less convincing.
To argue this thesis, the author needs to do the following:
- Show what is persuasive about Sandel’s claims about the problems with striving for perfection.
- Show what is not convincing about Sandel’s claim that we can clearly distinguish between medically necessary enhancements and other enhancements.
Once you have broken down your thesis into main claims, you can then think about what sub-claims you will need to make in order to support each of those main claims. That step might look like this:
- Evidence that Sandel provides to support this claim
- Discussion of why this evidence is convincing even in light of potential counterarguments
- Discussion of cases when medically necessary enhancement and non-medical enhancement cannot be easily distinguished
- Analysis of what those cases mean for Sandel’s argument
- Consideration of counterarguments (what Sandel might say in response to this section of your argument)
Each argument you will make in an essay will be different, but this strategy will often be a useful first step in figuring out the path of your argument.
Strategy #2: Use subheadings, even if you remove them later
Scientific papers generally include standard subheadings to delineate different sections of the paper, including “introduction,” “methods,” and “discussion.” Even when you are not required to use subheadings, it can be helpful to put them into an early draft to help you see what you’ve written and to begin to think about how your ideas fit together. You can do this by typing subheadings above the sections of your draft.
If you’re having trouble figuring out how your ideas fit together, try beginning with informal subheadings like these:
- Introduction
- Explain the author’s main point
- Show why this main point doesn’t hold up when we consider this other example
- Explain the implications of what I’ve shown for our understanding of the author
- Show how that changes our understanding of the topic
For longer papers, you may decide to include subheadings to guide your reader through your argument. In those cases, you would need to revise your informal subheadings to be more useful for your readers. For example, if you have initially written in something like “explain the author’s main point,” your final subheading might be something like “Sandel’s main argument” or “Sandel’s opposition to genetic enhancement.” In other cases, once you have the key pieces of your argument in place, you will be able to remove the subheadings.
Strategy #3: Create a reverse outline from your draft
While you may have learned to outline a paper before writing a draft, this step is often difficult because our ideas develop as we write. In some cases, it can be more helpful to write a draft in which you get all of your ideas out and then do a “reverse outline” of what you’ve already written. This doesn’t have to be formal; you can just make a list of the point in each paragraph of your draft and then ask these questions:
- Are those points in an order that makes sense to you?
- Are there gaps in your argument?
- Do the topic sentences of the paragraphs clearly state these main points?
- Do you have more than one paragraph that focuses on the same point? If so, do you need both paragraphs?
- Do you have some paragraphs that include too many points? If so, would it make more sense to split them up?
- Do you make points near the end of the draft that would be more effective earlier in your paper?
- Are there points missing from this draft?
- picture_as_pdf Tips for Organizing Your Essay
How To Summarize A Paragraph
![how to structure paragraphs in an essay Caleb S.](https://assets.myessaywriter.ai/writers/caleb-s-11439.png)
How to Summarize a Paragraph: Steps, Techniques, & Examples
Published on: Aug 19, 2024
Last updated on: Aug 18, 2024
![how to structure paragraphs in an essay How to Summarize a Paragraph](https://assets.myessaywriter.ai/blog/how-to-summarize-a-paragraph/How-to-Summarize-a-Paragraph-13888.png)
People also read
Summarizing a paragraph involves creating a short version of a longer passage, focusing on its main ideas and key points.
This skill is crucial for improving your reading and writing abilities. While summarizing might seem straightforward, doing it with clarity and brevity can be challenging.
It's also important to distinguish between summarizing and paraphrasing. A paraphrase involves rewriting a passage in your own words, while a summary condenses only the main points and important details into a much shorter form.
Summarizing is essential whether you’re working on reports, essays, or just trying to grasp the core of a text.
In this guide, we'll explore steps and techniques on how to summarize a paragraph without plagiarizing, ensuring your summaries are both clear and concise.
What is the Summary of a Paragraph?
A summary of a paragraph is a brief restatement of the main idea and essential supporting details contained within the original text.
It captures the core message in a concise form, typically in a few sentences or a short paragraph.
Importance of Summarizing a Paragraph
Summarizing a paragraph holds significant importance for various reasons:
- Helps you understand and retain the main points of a text.
- Allows you to convey complex information clearly and efficiently.
- Allows you to grasp essential concepts quickly, which is useful for exams, assignments, and research.
- Helps in presenting information in a structured and coherent manner.
- You save time when reviewing or communicating essential points.
How to Write a Summary of a Paragraph
Writing a summary involves refining a paragraph into its core elements while maintaining the original meaning.
Here are the essential steps to create an effective summary:
Step #1: Read the Paragraph Thoroughly
Start by reading the entire paragraph carefully to understand its overall meaning.
Pay attention to the main idea and supporting details. If needed, read the paragraph several times to ensure you grasp the key points.
Step #2: Identify the Main Idea
Determine the main idea or the primary message of the paragraph. This is usually a general statement that encapsulates the central point.
Look for topic sentences or statements that summarize the core message.
Step #3: Note the Supporting Details
Identify the supporting details that back up the main idea. These could be examples, explanations, or evidence provided in the paragraph.
Make brief notes on these points as they help reinforce the main idea.
![how to structure paragraphs in an essay How to Summarize a Paragraph - MyEssayWriter.ai](https://assets.myessaywriter.ai/blog/how-to-summarize-a-paragraph/mceu-27739067931723454338524.jpg)
Step #4: Draft the Summary
Using your notes, write a concise version of the paragraph. Focus on including the main idea and the most important supporting details. Avoid adding new information or personal opinions.
Your summary should be brief but informative, typically no longer than a few sentences or a short paragraph.
Step #5: Review and Revise
After drafting your summary, review it to ensure it accurately reflects the original paragraph’s content. Check for clarity, brevity, and coherence.
Revise if necessary to improve the flow and make sure the summary is clear and to the point.
Dos and Don’ts of Summarizing a Paragraph
Summarizing a paragraph can be a straightforward task when approached correctly. To ensure your summaries are effective, follow these dos and don’ts:
|
|
Always aim to capture the core message of the paragraph. | Avoid adding minor or irrelevant details that do not contribute to the main idea. |
Incorporate essential details that support the main idea. | Refrain from copying phrases or sentences from the original paragraph. |
Summarize the information in your own words to ensure originality. | Do not include personal opinions or interpretations that are not part of the original text. |
After writing your summary, review it for accuracy and completeness. | Skipping the review process can lead to inaccuracies. |
How To Summarize A Paragraph - Example
To illustrate the process of summarizing a paragraph, let’s walk through an example:
Original Paragraph:
"In the early 20th century, the rise of industrialization brought significant changes to urban life. Cities expanded rapidly as people moved from rural areas to find work in factories. This migration led to the development of new neighborhoods and a surge in population density. However, these changes also brought challenges, such as overcrowded living conditions and pollution. The rapid growth required new infrastructure and services to keep up with the increasing demands of urban populations." |
Here is how you can summarize this paragraph in your own words:
|
All in all, summarizing a paragraph is a valuable skill that enhances both your reading comprehension and writing efficiency. Remember the key dos and don’ts.
By following these guidelines and practicing the R.A.T. method—Read, Annotate, Think—you’ll improve your ability to summarize effectively.
If you're wondering how to summarize a paragraph online, give our summarizer tool a try!
For generating content online without any hassle, check out MyEssayWriter.ai - an AI essay writer | free essay writing tool !
Frequently Asked Questions
How to summarize a paragraph without plagiarizing.
To summarize a paragraph without plagiarizing, first, read and understand the main idea. Next, note the key points and rewrite them in your own words. Avoid using direct quotes from the original text and provide proper citations if needed.
How To Convert a Long Paragraph Into Summary?
To convert a long paragraph into a summary, start by reading the entire text thoroughly to understand it. Identify and highlight the main points, then write a concise version that includes only the essential details. Ensure the summary accurately reflects the original content and keep it brief.
Caleb S. (Mass Literature and Linguistics, Masters)
Caleb S. is an accomplished author with over five years of experience and a Master's degree from Oxford University. He excels in various writing forms, including articles, press releases, blog posts, and whitepapers. As a valued author at MyEssayWriter.ai, Caleb assists students and professionals by providing practical tips on research, citation, sentence structure, and style enhancement.
On This Page On This Page
Get Access to Advanced Features with our Affordable Plans
Complimentary Trial
Continue for FREE
OFFER ENDS Today
Signup for Free Access
Access to all Tools
No Credit Card needed
Quota: 1500 Words (6 pages)
Offer ends in: 03hr 19m 8s
Already a user? Login instead
For Monthly Usage
$ 9.99 /month
Up to 2500 words/month
Access to all features
AI Essay Writer
AI Essay Outliner
Go Big Monthly!
$ 14.99 /month
Up to 100,000 words/month
Access to all existing tools
50% off on custom essay orders
500 credits for plagiarism check
Top Annual Savings!
Advanced (4 Months FREE )
$ 99.99 /year
OFFER ENDS Soon
Unlimited essays
12 Months for the price of 8
Access to all upcoming tools
Get started for free
Please enter a valid Name
Please enter a valid email address
Please enter a valid Phone Number
Please enter atleast five characters
Please enter a valid Password
Show Password
Already have an account? Sign In here.
Please enter your email address
Forgot Password?
Don’t have an account? Sign Up
Verify Your Account
Enter the verification codes to confirm your identity.
Code sent to [email protected]
Send again in seconds
Code sent to +1 302 385 6690
![how to structure paragraphs in an essay loader](https://www.myessaywriter.ai/images/loader-btns.webp)
Claim Free Essay
Your first custom essay order on our website is FREE!
Have a language expert improve your writing
Run a free plagiarism check in 10 minutes, generate accurate citations for free.
- Knowledge Base
- How to write an essay introduction | 4 steps & examples
How to Write an Essay Introduction | 4 Steps & Examples
Published on February 4, 2019 by Shona McCombes . Revised on July 23, 2023.
A good introduction paragraph is an essential part of any academic essay . It sets up your argument and tells the reader what to expect.
The main goals of an introduction are to:
- Catch your reader’s attention.
- Give background on your topic.
- Present your thesis statement —the central point of your essay.
This introduction example is taken from our interactive essay example on the history of Braille.
The invention of Braille was a major turning point in the history of disability. The writing system of raised dots used by visually impaired people was developed by Louis Braille in nineteenth-century France. In a society that did not value disabled people in general, blindness was particularly stigmatized, and lack of access to reading and writing was a significant barrier to social participation. The idea of tactile reading was not entirely new, but existing methods based on sighted systems were difficult to learn and use. As the first writing system designed for blind people’s needs, Braille was a groundbreaking new accessibility tool. It not only provided practical benefits, but also helped change the cultural status of blindness. This essay begins by discussing the situation of blind people in nineteenth-century Europe. It then describes the invention of Braille and the gradual process of its acceptance within blind education. Subsequently, it explores the wide-ranging effects of this invention on blind people’s social and cultural lives.
Instantly correct all language mistakes in your text
Upload your document to correct all your mistakes in minutes
![how to structure paragraphs in an essay upload-your-document-ai-proofreader](https://www.scribbr.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/01/grammar-check.webp)
Table of contents
Step 1: hook your reader, step 2: give background information, step 3: present your thesis statement, step 4: map your essay’s structure, step 5: check and revise, more examples of essay introductions, other interesting articles, frequently asked questions about the essay introduction.
Your first sentence sets the tone for the whole essay, so spend some time on writing an effective hook.
Avoid long, dense sentences—start with something clear, concise and catchy that will spark your reader’s curiosity.
The hook should lead the reader into your essay, giving a sense of the topic you’re writing about and why it’s interesting. Avoid overly broad claims or plain statements of fact.
Examples: Writing a good hook
Take a look at these examples of weak hooks and learn how to improve them.
- Braille was an extremely important invention.
- The invention of Braille was a major turning point in the history of disability.
The first sentence is a dry fact; the second sentence is more interesting, making a bold claim about exactly why the topic is important.
- The internet is defined as “a global computer network providing a variety of information and communication facilities.”
- The spread of the internet has had a world-changing effect, not least on the world of education.
Avoid using a dictionary definition as your hook, especially if it’s an obvious term that everyone knows. The improved example here is still broad, but it gives us a much clearer sense of what the essay will be about.
- Mary Shelley’s Frankenstein is a famous book from the nineteenth century.
- Mary Shelley’s Frankenstein is often read as a crude cautionary tale about the dangers of scientific advancement.
Instead of just stating a fact that the reader already knows, the improved hook here tells us about the mainstream interpretation of the book, implying that this essay will offer a different interpretation.
Here's why students love Scribbr's proofreading services
Discover proofreading & editing
Next, give your reader the context they need to understand your topic and argument. Depending on the subject of your essay, this might include:
- Historical, geographical, or social context
- An outline of the debate you’re addressing
- A summary of relevant theories or research about the topic
- Definitions of key terms
The information here should be broad but clearly focused and relevant to your argument. Don’t give too much detail—you can mention points that you will return to later, but save your evidence and interpretation for the main body of the essay.
How much space you need for background depends on your topic and the scope of your essay. In our Braille example, we take a few sentences to introduce the topic and sketch the social context that the essay will address:
Now it’s time to narrow your focus and show exactly what you want to say about the topic. This is your thesis statement —a sentence or two that sums up your overall argument.
This is the most important part of your introduction. A good thesis isn’t just a statement of fact, but a claim that requires evidence and explanation.
The goal is to clearly convey your own position in a debate or your central point about a topic.
Particularly in longer essays, it’s helpful to end the introduction by signposting what will be covered in each part. Keep it concise and give your reader a clear sense of the direction your argument will take.
Prevent plagiarism. Run a free check.
As you research and write, your argument might change focus or direction as you learn more.
For this reason, it’s often a good idea to wait until later in the writing process before you write the introduction paragraph—it can even be the very last thing you write.
When you’ve finished writing the essay body and conclusion , you should return to the introduction and check that it matches the content of the essay.
It’s especially important to make sure your thesis statement accurately represents what you do in the essay. If your argument has gone in a different direction than planned, tweak your thesis statement to match what you actually say.
To polish your writing, you can use something like a paraphrasing tool .
You can use the checklist below to make sure your introduction does everything it’s supposed to.
Checklist: Essay introduction
My first sentence is engaging and relevant.
I have introduced the topic with necessary background information.
I have defined any important terms.
My thesis statement clearly presents my main point or argument.
Everything in the introduction is relevant to the main body of the essay.
You have a strong introduction - now make sure the rest of your essay is just as good.
- Argumentative
- Literary analysis
This introduction to an argumentative essay sets up the debate about the internet and education, and then clearly states the position the essay will argue for.
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.
This introduction to a short expository essay leads into the topic (the invention of the printing press) and states the main point the essay will explain (the effect of this invention on European society).
In many ways, the invention of the printing press marked the end of the Middle Ages. The medieval period in Europe is often remembered as a time of intellectual and political stagnation. Prior to the Renaissance, the average person had very limited access to books and was unlikely to be literate. The invention of the printing press in the 15th century allowed for much less restricted circulation of information in Europe, paving the way for the Reformation.
This introduction to a literary analysis essay , about Mary Shelley’s Frankenstein , starts by describing a simplistic popular view of the story, and then states how the author will give a more complex analysis of the text’s literary devices.
Mary Shelley’s Frankenstein is often read as a crude cautionary tale. Arguably the first science fiction novel, its plot can be read as a warning about the dangers of scientific advancement unrestrained by ethical considerations. In this reading, and in popular culture representations of the character as a “mad scientist”, Victor Frankenstein represents the callous, arrogant ambition of modern science. However, far from providing a stable image of the character, Shelley uses shifting narrative perspectives to gradually transform our impression of Frankenstein, portraying him in an increasingly negative light as the novel goes on. While he initially appears to be a naive but sympathetic idealist, after the creature’s narrative Frankenstein begins to resemble—even in his own telling—the thoughtlessly cruel figure the creature represents him as.
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!
- Ad hominem fallacy
- Post hoc fallacy
- Appeal to authority fallacy
- False cause fallacy
- Sunk cost fallacy
College essays
- Choosing Essay Topic
- Write a College Essay
- Write a Diversity Essay
- College Essay Format & Structure
- Comparing and Contrasting in an Essay
(AI) Tools
- Grammar Checker
- Paraphrasing Tool
- Text Summarizer
- AI Detector
- Plagiarism Checker
- Citation Generator
Your essay introduction should include three main things, in this order:
- An opening hook to catch the reader’s attention.
- Relevant background information that the reader needs to know.
- A thesis statement that presents your main point or argument.
The length of each part depends on the length and complexity of your essay .
The “hook” is the first sentence of your essay introduction . It should lead the reader into your essay, giving a sense of why it’s interesting.
To write a good hook, avoid overly broad statements or long, dense sentences. Try to start with something clear, concise and catchy that will spark your reader’s curiosity.
A thesis statement is a sentence that sums up the central point of your paper or essay . Everything else you write should relate to this key idea.
The thesis statement is essential in any academic essay or research paper for two main reasons:
- It gives your writing direction and focus.
- It gives the reader a concise summary of your main point.
Without a clear thesis statement, an essay can end up rambling and unfocused, leaving your reader unsure of exactly what you want to say.
The structure of an essay is divided into an introduction that presents your topic and thesis statement , a body containing your in-depth analysis and arguments, and a conclusion wrapping up your ideas.
The structure of the body is flexible, but you should always spend some time thinking about how you can organize your essay to best serve your ideas.
Cite this Scribbr article
If you want to cite this source, you can copy and paste the citation or click the “Cite this Scribbr article” button to automatically add the citation to our free Citation Generator.
McCombes, S. (2023, July 23). How to Write an Essay Introduction | 4 Steps & Examples. Scribbr. Retrieved August 23, 2024, from https://www.scribbr.com/academic-essay/introduction/
Is this article helpful?
Shona McCombes
Other students also liked, how to write a thesis statement | 4 steps & examples, academic paragraph structure | step-by-step guide & examples, how to conclude an essay | interactive example, get unlimited documents corrected.
✔ Free APA citation check included ✔ Unlimited document corrections ✔ Specialized in correcting academic texts
![](http://serviteca.online/777/templates/cheerup2/res/banner1.gif)
IMAGES
COMMENTS
At a minimum, a body paragraph needs to be 4 sentences long. However, a good body paragraph in a short essay will be at least 6-8 sentences long. 3. End with a concluding paragraph. Your conclusion provides a brief summary of your ideas so that the reader can reflect on them.
Like other forms of writing, paragraphs follow a standard three-part structure with a beginning, middle, and end. These parts are the topic sentence, development and support, and conclusion. Topic sentences, also known as "paragraph leaders," introduce the main idea that the paragraph is about.
Step 1: Identify the paragraph's purpose. First, you need to know the central idea that will organize this paragraph. If you have already made a plan or outline of your paper's overall structure, you should already have a good idea of what each paragraph will aim to do.. You can start by drafting a sentence that sums up your main point and introduces the paragraph's focus.
The basic structure of an essay always consists of an introduction, a body, and a conclusion. But for many students, the most difficult part of structuring an essay is deciding how to organize information within the body. This article provides useful templates and tips to help you outline your essay, make decisions about your structure, and ...
All paragraphs need to be relevant to the marking criteria. 9. Only include one key idea per paragraph. 10. Keep sentences short. 11. Keep quotes short. Paragraph structure is one of the most important elements of getting essay writing right.
Basic essay structure: the 3 main parts of an essay. Almost every single essay that's ever been written follows the same basic structure: Introduction. Body paragraphs. Conclusion. This structure has stood the test of time for one simple reason: It works. It clearly presents the writer's position, supports that position with relevant ...
The topic sentence (Point) This should appear early in the paragraph and is often, but not always, the first sentence. It should clearly state the main point that you are making in the paragraph.When you are planning essays, writing down a list of your topic sentences is an excellent way to check that your argument flows well from one point to the next.
For example, you can set a goal of writing four to six sentences per paragraph: in that number of sentences you can announce an idea, prove that idea with evidence, and explain why this evidence matters by linking it to the overall goal of your paper. In the final version of your paper you may have a shorter paragraph or two.
A strong paragraph in an academic essay will usually include these three elements: A topic sentence. The topic sentence does double duty for a paragraph. First, a strong topic sentence makes a claim or states a main idea that is then developed in the rest of the paragraph. Second, the topic sentence signals to readers how the paragraph is ...
This example guides you through the structure of an essay. It shows how to build an effective introduction, focused paragraphs, clear transitions between ideas, and a strong conclusion. Each paragraph addresses a single central point, introduced by a topic sentence, and each point is directly related to the thesis statement.
Coherence is the trait that makes the paragraph easily understandable to a reader. You can help create coherence in your paragraphs by creating logical bridges and verbal bridges. Logical bridges. The same idea of a topic is carried over from sentence to sentence. Successive sentences can be constructed in parallel form.
Paragraph structure. Academic paragraphs work like court reports rather than murder mysteries; start with the end result and then explain how you got there, rather than taking the reader on an exploration with the purpose only revealed at the end. One simple model for paragraph structure is PEEL: Point, Evidence, Evaluation, Link (to the ...
When you write an essay for a course you are taking, you are being asked not only to create a product (the essay) but, more importantly, to go through a process of thinking more deeply about a question or problem related to the course. By writing about a source or collection of sources, you will have the chance to wrestle with some of the
Writing a paragraph is easier when you follow a structure. An essay paragraph consists of around 250 words, with the sentence count varying from five to six or more, depending on the type of essay you're writing. The structure of an essay paragraph includes the following: A topic sentence at the beginning of the paragraph that clearly states ...
Guide to essay paragraph structureG. ng an introduction to your essay An introduction is usually. round 10% of the total word count. Some students find it easier to write the introduction in their first draft, while others prefer to write it after their b. dy paragraphs have been finalised. An introduction is the first thing your audience reads ...
Make Your Paragraph a M.E.A.L. There are various ways to organize an academic paragraph, but here is a basic acronym you can follow to help you structure your writing at the paragraph level: M.E.A.L. M: Main Point Sentence. The first sentence of your paragraph states the main point of the paragraph and often connects back to the paper's thesis.
For a high school essay, this could be just three paragraphs, but for a graduate school essay of 6,000 words, the body could take up 8-10 pages. Paragraph structure. To give your essay a clear structure, it is important to organize it into paragraphs. Each paragraph should be centered around one main point or idea.
The five-paragraph essay format is a guide that helps writers structure an essay. It consists of one introductory paragraph, three body paragraphs for support, and one concluding paragraph. Because of this structure, it has been nicknamed the "hamburger essay," the "one-three-one essay," and the "three-tier essay.".
Created a preliminary outline for your essay that presents the information logically. Most essays follow a similar structure, including an introduction, body paragraphs, and a conclusion, as shown in the diagram below. Click on the plus icons for more information.
How to Structure Paragraphs in an Essay. Amy has taught college and law school writing courses. She holds a master's degree in English and a law degree. In an essay, sentence structure should flow ...
Understand the structure: The five paragraph essay consists of an introduction, three body paragraphs, and a conclusion. Each paragraph serves a specific purpose in conveying your message effectively. Brainstorm and plan: Before you start writing, take the time to brainstorm ideas and create an outline. This will help you organize your thoughts ...
An essay outline is a way of planning the structure of your essay before you start writing. It involves writing quick summary sentences or phrases for every point you will cover in each paragraph, giving you a picture of how your argument will unfold. You'll sometimes be asked to submit an essay outline as a separate assignment before you ...
Strategy #1: Decompose your thesis into paragraphs. A clear, arguable thesis will tell your readers where you are going to end up, but it can also help you figure out how to get them there. Put your thesis at the top of a blank page and then make a list of the points you will need to make to argue that thesis effectively.
Step #1: Read the Paragraph Thoroughly . Start by reading the entire paragraph carefully to understand its overall meaning. Pay attention to the main idea and supporting details. If needed, read the paragraph several times to ensure you grasp the key points. Step #2: Identify the Main Idea. Determine the main idea or the primary message of the ...
Table of contents. Step 1: Hook your reader. Step 2: Give background information. Step 3: Present your thesis statement. Step 4: Map your essay's structure. Step 5: Check and revise. More examples of essay introductions. Other interesting articles. Frequently asked questions about the essay introduction.