Tips for Writing Essays

Thesis StatementTypically appears at the end of the

introductionIs NOT the same as an “attention-getter”Should explain the full scope (in terms of

content) and purpose of the essayUnless writing a personal narrative, should

not be written in first person

OrganizationEach paragraph needs a topic sentence (often taken

directly from part of the thesis)Plan your essays prior to writing themModel of a well constructed body paragraph:

Strong topic sentence with a clear connection to the thesis statement. Supporting detail #1. Supporting detail #2. Supporting detail #3. Closing sentence and transition to next paragraph.

Remember: Careful thought planning at the beginning eliminates confusion and panic at the end.

The Writing ProcessPre-writeRough draftPrintReviseEditPrintProofreadSubmit

Introductions and ConclusionsThink of your introduction as a funnel: a

general statement about your topic funnels to the specific scope and purpose of the essay

#1 rule about writing conclusions: no new information!

Introduction: Tell us what you’re going to tell us

Body paragraphs: Tell usConclusion: Tell us what you’ve told us

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