How to Write the Perfect Essay*

  1. Before you begin writing, decide on your answer to the question asked of you. This is your basic thesis. 

  2. Before you begin writing, decide on what three pieces of evidence/support you will use to prove your thesis.   

  3. Write your introductory paragraph. Place your thesis along with your three pieces of evidence in order of strength (least to most) at the end of this paragraph.   

  4. Write the first paragraph of your body. You should begin by restating your thesis, focusing on the support of your first piece of evidence.   

  5. End your first paragraph with a transitional sentence that leads to paragraph number two.   

  6. Write paragraph two of the body focusing on your second piece of evidence. Once again make the connection between your thesis and this piece of evidence.   

  7. End your second paragraph with a transitional sentence that leads to paragraph number three.  

  8. Write paragraph three of the body focusing on your third piece of evidence. Again, make the connection between your thesis statement and this piece of evidence.   

  9. Begin your concluding paragraph by restating your thesis. Include the three points you have used to prove your thesis.   

  10. End your concluding paragraph with a statement of extension which will (hopefully) cause the reader to look beyond what you have written. You do not include new evidence in your last paragraph.

Tips:

  1. Never use I or you (unless specifically told that it is allowed).   

  2. Do not use contractions in formal writing.   

  3. Organization is one of the most important parts of good writing. Make sure to organize from the first paragraph on.  

    * Reprinted with Permission from the Congressional Hispanic Caucus Institute.