An essay is an extended piece of academic writing written in response to a question or questions. It is one of the most common academic writing tasks students are asked to prepare.
An essay is written in paragraphs and has a basic structure which includes an introduction, body, conclusion and a list of references.
See block structure below:
Introduction
- An introduction will do most, if not all of the following:
- Introduce the topic
- Comment briefly on its importance
- State the essay’s main argument or main issues to be discussed (sometimes referred to as a thesis statement)
- States how you intend to answer the question
- It is usually 1-2 paragraphs long
The body
- Is made up of paragraphs
- Each paragraph focuses on one main point and will explain, illustrate, give reasons or examples
- Includes reference to evidence/research to support your argument
- Includes linking words[Links to additional page] within paragraphs and between paragraphs
Paragraph 1
- Develops your first main point
- Includes a topic sentence which outlines the main idea at the start of the paragraph
- The paragraph may explain, narrate, describe, give examples, evidence, reasons or results
- The sentences in a paragraph must follow a logical order of development
- Includes linking words [Links to additional page] to connect ideas
Paragraph 2
- Develops your second main point
- Includes a topic sentence which outlines the main idea at the start of the paragraph
- The paragraph may explain, narrate, describe, give examples, evidence, reasons or results
- The sentences in a paragraph must follow a logical order of development
- Includes linking words [Links to additional page] to connect ideas
Paragraph 3
- Develops your third main point
- Includes a topic sentence which outlines the main idea at the start of the paragraph
- The paragraph may explain, narrate, describe, give examples, evidence, reasons or results
- The sentences in a paragraph must follow a logical order of development
- Includes linking words [Links to additional page] to connect ideas
The conclusion
- Sums up the essay
- Restates the main argument
- May outline future directions or further research needed
- Does not include new ideas
- Uses words like: in conclusion, in summary, finally, to sum up, to conclude
References
- List of all the resources you have included in the essay
- Refer to correct style of referencing required
- The majority of students at Unitec are required to follow the APA style
- Some students will follow alternative referencing systems such as Chicago [linked to the library’s pages]
- If you are unsure check with your lecturer
