How do I structure an academic essay?

Question

I am writing an academic essay. Is there a particular structure I should be using to organize my essay?

Answer 1

Academic essays have a very clear structure.

1. Introduction
2. Body paragraph #1
3. Body paragraph #2
4. Body paragraph #3, etc.
5. Conclusion

The introduction should end with a thesis statement, or in an argumentative essay it is a main claim that tells the reader the main point of the essay.

Each body paragraph should be in support of the thesis. Each should begin with a topic sentence that tells the reader the main point of the paragraph. Then supporting details such as evidence and reasoning should be added. Finally, the paragraph should end with a concluding sentence that summarizes the main point of the paragraph.

Finally, the essay should end with a conclusion that begins by restating the thesis, summarizing the main points the writer has made, and end with a final thought as to the significance of the essay's findings.

If you keep these simple steps in mind, you will have an excellently written academic essay!

Answer 2

An academic should begin with an introduction, followed by your body paragraphs, and finalized by your conclusion. The standard essay is usually five paragraphs, although there's no fixed length.

Introduction

1. Attention grabber/ hook to capture the audience/reader.
2. Background information on the subject.
3. Thesis statement: main argument plus three supporting reasons.

Body paragraph 1:

1. Topic sentence (supporting reason one from thesis).
2. Example 1 which supports topic sentence
3. Commentary/analysis
4. Example 2 which supports topic sentence
5. Commentary/analysis

Body paragraph 2:

1. Topic sentence (supporting reason two from thesis).
2. Example 1 which supports topic sentence
3. Commentary/analysis
4. Example 2 which supports topic sentence
5. Commentary/analysis

Body paragraph 3:

1. Topic sentence (supporting reason three from thesis).
2. Example 1 which supports topic sentence
3. Commentary/analysis
4. Example 2 which supports topic sentence
5. Commentary/analysis

Conclusion:

1. Restate thesis statement
2. Wrap up main points
3. Closing sentence which leaves reader thinking.