An essay has three distinct parts; introduction, body paragraphs and a
conclusion. You first introduce your topic by stating what you are going to talk
about. First paragraph has the preliminary information about the topic. Then
on the body paragraphs extent of aspects that you wish to discuss to support
your thesis. Finally, you wrap your essay in the last paragraph by arriving at
your own conclusion.
1.INTROUCTION
You should begin your writing in a manner that capture the attention of the
readers and guides them smoothly into the subject. An effective introduction
has the following characteristics:
• It captures the attention of the readers.
• It guides the audience smoothly into the subject.
• It sets the tone for the entire essay.
• It either states or moves towards the thesis.
Strategies for writing Writing Introductions
Hook your audience by using ; Background information, asking provocative
questions, story or incident, static, fact or statement, quotation, definition,
example or details.
• Introduce the subject
• Establish a voice and tone
• State the thesis.
2. WRITING BODY PARAGRAPHS
Effective body paragraphs contains;
• It makes one main point.
• Contains sufficient support to develop main point.
• Clear organizational plan.
• No material that doesn’t relate to its point.
• Employs precise language.
Strategies to Writing Body Paragraphs
• Use topic sentence
• Signal shifts in thought.
• Avoid the unclear ‘this’ and ‘it’.
• Repeat important words.
• Use parallel sentence structures.
3. WRITING CONCLUSION
The conclusion forms the last impression of your writing. It conveys a feeling of
completion. A conclusion frames the essay by trying together all the main
points and wrapping up any loose ends for the reader.
Strategies for Writing Conclusion
• Offer closure.
• Frame the essay.
• Avoid pitfalls.
4. REVISING AND POLISHING THE ESSAY
Strategies for Revising
• Allow time for reflection
• Use audience response
• Rethink the draft
• Add the draft
Strategies for Polishing
• Re-read your revised draft.
• Use your tools to improve weak spots.
• Use peer editing and instructor response.
• Trim and clarify.
• Eliminate Wordiness.