Guide to the Basic Essay Form

THESIS PARAGRAPH (say what you're gonna say)

The first sentence introduces your overall topic and point of view. The second sentence mentions your first major point. The third sentence mentions your second major point. The fourth sentence mentions your third major point. (Other sentences as necessary)

BODY PARAGRAPHS (say it)

This sentence introduces your first major point. This sentence elaborates your first major point. This sentence further elaborates your first major point. This sentence completes the elaboration of your first major point. (Other sentences as necessary)

This sentence introduces your second major point. This sentence elaborates your second major point. This sentence further elaborates your second major point. This sentence completes the elaboration of your second major point. (Other sentences as necessary)

This sentence introduces your third major point. This sentence elaborates your third major point. This sentence further elaborates your third major point. This sentence completes the elaboration of your third major point. (Other sentences as necessary)

(Other paragraphs as necessary)

CONCLUSION PARAGRAPH (say that you said it)

This sentence makes your initial concluding remarks. This sentence makes specific reference to the proofs offered in the body. This sentence wraps up the essay, telling your reader that you have proved what you set out to prove.

(This is an abbreviated pattern. Exam essays should be 3-5 page in lengths.)