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One of the easiest ways to begin most essays is to think in terms of what is commonly called the “Five Paragraph Essay.”
Please note: The five paragraph essay is generally a minimally acceptable format for a short essay. It is likely that you will have more than three body paragraphs in your essays. However, it is unlikely that you will ever have less than three.
A graphic illustration of the five paragraph essay appears with explanations appears to the right.
Formal Outlines
Following is a formal outline for the Five Paragraph Essay.
- Introduction
- Topic Sentence
- Example 1
- Example 2
- Topic Sentence
- Example 1
- Example 2
- Topic Sentence
- Example 1
- Example 2
- Conclusion
More information on formal outlines can be found on the next page.
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Five Paragraph Essay
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First Paragraph
Introduction
Introduce the subject. Include a thesis statement. |
The topic sentence for the first paragraph should provide a logical transition from the introductory paragraph. |
Second Paragraph
First Body Paragraph
Include a topic sentence that relates to your thesis. Then include examples to support your topic sentence.
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The topic sentence for the second body paragraph should continue to develop your thesis while providing a logical transition from the first body paragraph.
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Third Paragraph
Second Body Paragraph
Include a topic sentence that relates to your thesis. Then include examples to support your topic sentence.
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The topic sentence for the third body paragraph should continue to develop your thesis while providing a logical transition from the second body paragraph.
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Fourth Paragraph
Third Body Paragraph
Include a topic sentence that relates to your thesis. Then include examples to support your topic sentence.
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Fifth Paragraph
Conclusion
“A conclusion is satisfactory when it reiterates the paper's or report’s focus in a new way, reviews or summarizes the paper’s main points, and/or provides a recommendation, argument, or point with which to end the discourse meaningfully.” (Source: Schoolcraft College English Department)
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