An essay is a form of writing usually broken down into three, four, five, or more paragraphs which express your opinion about a given subject. You must always choose a thesis or theme (main idea) and then prove it through examples. Your essay should always include an introductory paragraph and a concluding paragraph. A complete paragraph should include at least five to ten sentences. Use a thesaurus so that you do not repeat the same words too often.

Introduction

1. Provide a brief, specific description of the subject. Keep in mind that the reader does not know the subject matter.
2. State your thesis (what you will prove) clearly and in an interesting way. Here you would have three parts to your thesis.


Second Paragraph (Body)

1. Provide a topic sentence that clearly states what you will talk about in that paragraph.
2. Prove your topic sentence by using examples. Use a minimum of two examples.


Third/Fourth Paragraph (Body)

1. Topic sentence
2. Prove your topic sentence with examples.


Fifth Paragraph

1. Restate your thesis statement (topic sentence) in a new way.
2. As a closing to your conclusion, relate your thesis to the present or future, or to your own life now.