Basic Essay and Paragraph Format
Note: This document should only be used as a reference and should not replace assignment guidelines.
A basic essay consists of three main parts: introduction, body, and conclusion. Following this format will
help you write and organize an essay. However, flexibility is important. While keeping this basic essay
format in mind, let the topic and specific assignment guide the writing and organization.
Parts of an Essay
Introduction
The introduction guides your reader into the paper by introducing the topic. It should
begin with a hook that catches the reader’s interest. This hook could be a quote, an
analogy, a question, etc. After getting the reader’s attention, the introduction should
give some background information on the topic. The ideas within the introduction
should be general enough for the reader to understand the main claim and gradually
become more specific to lead into the thesis statement. (See the Introductions
handout for further information.)
Thesis Statement
The thesis statement concisely states the main idea or argument of the essay, sets
limits on the topic, and can indicate the organization of the essay. The thesis works as
a road map for the entire essay, showing the readers what you have to say and which
main points you will use to support your ideas. (See the Thesis Statements handout.)
Main Idea
Main Idea
Main Idea
Introduction
Thesis Statement
