2. Do you want to write about them?
The first sentence of a paragraph is usually the topic sentence. It should indicate your position and encapsulate the argument that you make in that paragraph. To help write the topic sentence ask yourself, 'What is this paragraph about?' and 'How does it develop my argument?' If you cannot answer these questions clearly, then the paragraph should be reconsidered and revised.
Before you jot anything down into the body of your essay, make sure that the outline has enough information to back up whatever statement you choose to explore. Do not be afraid of letting creativity into your paper (within reason, of course) and explore the possibilities. Start with a standard 5 paragraph structure, and the content will come with time. Paragraphs form the body of the essay. They are its 'building blocks' and it is important to structure them well. Each paragraph should contain one main idea. That idea is developed in three parts: a topic sentence, supporting sentences and a concluding or linking sentence. By presenting your whole argument in the introduction, the reader now knows what to expect. This is called 'signposting'-planting signs that help to guide the reader through your writing. Signposting helps to signal your argument in your essay and avoids the reader having to 'hunt' for it within the body. An essay without a clear thesis statement and signposting in the introduction can be frustrating to read, as the author's position is difficult to discern. Before handing in the final draft, go over it at least one more time, focusing on smaller mistakes like grammar and punctuation. Make sure that what you wrote follows proper essay structure. Learn more about on our blog. If you need a second pair of eyes, get help from our service. Before you even begin writing, make sure that you are acquainted with the information that you are working with. Find compelling arguments and counterpoints, trivia, facts, etc. The sky is the limit when it comes to gathering information. Essay format refers to the structure and layout guidelines for writing an essay. This typically includes elements such as font size and style, margins, spacing, indentation, and citation style. Essay format may vary depending on the specific requirements of the assignment or citation style (e.g., MLA, APA, Chicago).
Download this page as a PDF for your essay structure revision notes
The usage of Chicago style is prevalent in academic writing that focuses on the source of origin. This means that precise citations and footnotes are key to a successful paper.
How (and why) to outline your college essay to use a good structure
Essays written for an academic audience follow a structure with which you are likely familiar: Intro, Body, Conclusion. Here is a general overview of what each of those sections “does” in the larger essay.
Experience the future of academic writing –
Many people struggle with the conclusion, not knowing how to end a paper without simply restating the paper’s thesis and main points. In fact, one of the earliest ways that we learn to write conclusions involves the “summarize and restate” method of repeating the points that you have already discussed.
Want the best structure and editing for your essay? We can help!
If you ask yourself how to format an essay, you can always turn to us and request to write or in APA format if you find it difficult or don't have time.
Short videos to support your essay writing skills
The APA scheme is one of the most common college essay formats, so being familiar with its requirements is crucial. In a basic APA format structure, we can apply a similar list of guidelines as we did in the MLA section:
Further examples of linking words in academic writing:
To format a college essay, start by following any specific instructions provided by the college or instructor. Generally, use a readable font (e.g., Times New Roman, Arial) and size (usually 12-point), double-space the entire essay, and set 1-inch margins on all sides. Include a title page with your name, course title, instructor's name, and date. Begin your essay with an introduction, followed by body paragraphs that develop your main points, and conclude with a summary or conclusion. Use clear and concise language, and proofread your essay for grammar and punctuation errors before submission.
Tips on writing longer pieces of work
The introduction is the opening to your essay and therefore it should be clear, strong and persuasive. You need to show that you have understood the question and that you are taking a clear position and presenting a logical argument to support it. The introduction starts broadly then narrows down to your specific focus. Picture an hourglass shape.