Essay Writing—the formula  Essay writing is simply a process of writing where you organize information.  It is an easy format of writing because it follows a specific formula.

Organizing Information  In an essay you are using the best information that you have to prove that a thesis is true.  Organize your information into coherent paragraphs.

A Method  Gather your best information.  Put similar ideas together.  These “chunks” of information become your main body.

The Parts of an Essay  Introduction  Main Body (usually 3-5 paragraphs)  Conclusion  The length of each part is determined by the length of the entire essay.

The Introductory Paragraph  Funnel Analogy  Broad to narrow  Introduce the general topic and move toward your thesis.

The Introductory Paragraph  Your first sentence will introduce the broadest aspect of your topic.  You would name the text you are writing about and the author.  Each sentence moves you closer to your most narrow topic : your thesis.  The thesis statement is usually near the end of your introductory paragraph

The Introductory Paragraph The first sentence In the novel, Lord of the Flies, written by William Golding, a group of British school boys get stranded on a deserted island in a seeming tropical paradise. Then you would provide specific information to lead to your thesis. Sample

The Main Body  This is where you use your best evidence to prove that your thesis is true.  You refer to events and incidents to support your thesis.  You should use direct quotations to support your thesis.  Everything you write should be clearly connected to the thesis of your essay. CTT

The Main Body Your First Main Point  Generally speaking, it is a good idea to use your strongest point (argument) in the second paragraph of your essay.  Usually at the end of the paragraph you write a sentence that connect this argument to your thesis. CTT

The Main Body  The first sentence of all of the rest of your main body paragraphs provide a transition from the previous point to your next point.  Then follow the same formula: make a point that support your thesis. Use your text to support your argument. Be sure to make a clear CTT.  Move to your next point.

THE CONCLUSION Make the end of your essay count. Do not “fizzle out!”

The Concluding Paragraph  You have worked hard to write a great essay.  Don’t leave your reader with a bad last impression.  Draw your final conclusions—make sure you CTT as you conclude.

The Concluding Paragraph COMMON MISTAKES:  Starting a new topic.  Making a main body argument.  NOT concluding the actual topic you have just written about.

ANY QUESTIONS?