Essay Structure
What is the introduction?
This part introduces the topic and states the writer's position.
What is a thesis statement?
A clear statement of the writer’s opinion.
What are supporting arguments?
Reasons or evidence backing the thesis.
What are counterarguments?
Opposing viewpoints addressed in the essay.
What are transition words?
Words like “furthermore” or “however.”
What is five?
The typical number of paragraphs in a basic opinion essay.
What is the roadmap?
This part of the thesis previews main arguments.
What is three?
Recommended number of arguments in a standard essay.
What is before the conclusion?
Section where counterarguments are typically found.
What is coherence?
Ensures logical flow between paragraphs.
What are body paragraphs?
The section where arguments are presented in detail.
What is specific?
A strong thesis should be this, not vague.
What is a body paragraph?
Each argument is developed in this section.
What is refutation?
Disproving a counterargument.
What is “On the other hand…”?
Transition phrase for a contrasting idea.
What is the conclusion?
The part that restates the thesis and summarizes arguments.
What is the end of the introduction?
The ideal placement of a thesis statement.
What are anecdotes or statistics?
Real-world examples that strengthen arguments.
What is “Some people argue that…”?
Phrase to introduce a counterargument.
What is lexical cohesion?
Repeating key terms to maintain focus.
What is strongest to weakest?
The recommended order to present arguments for maximum impact.
What is a concession?
Revising a thesis to address counterarguments might include this.
What is reinforcing the thesis?
Connecting arguments back to the thesis.
What is a concession?
Acknowledging validity while maintaining your stance.
What is circular closure?
Linking the conclusion back to the introduction.