An academic essay introduces a topic, makes an argument about that topic through evidence and examples, and draws a conclusion. It has three main sections - an introduction with a thesis statement, body paragraphs with supporting details, and a conclusion that restates the main point. Essays are usually organized in a point-by-point, subject-by-subject, or chronological pattern. Writers should plan essays by generating an outline listing the main ideas and evidence to stay organized.

1. Planning and Organizing an Essay

2. What is an Essay? An academic essay is a group of paragraphs that makes an argument about a topic. An effective academic essay should: introduce a topic state that topic clearly explain that topic through evidence and examples make a argument or debatable conclusion about that idea.

3. What is an Essay? An essay has three main sections: an introduction that states the topic of the essay and make a point through the Thesis Statement supporting or body paragraphs that contain the supporting point that explain the details of the topic a conclusion paragraph that ties all the points of the essay together and restates your main point.

4. Essay Organization An academic essay is usually organized into a pattern A point-by-point pattern separates your essay sections by the points you are making A subject-by-subject patter separates your essay sections by the subjects/objects/texts you are using. A chronological pattern puts your essay sections in order according to time.

5. Planning Your Essay Begin planning for your essay by generating an Outline. An outline is a visual layout of your essay. It can help you pre-plan your essay and the points you will be making. In your outline, you should write out the main ideas or topic sentences of your essay.

6. Planning Your Essay Your outline should follow the general pattern below: Introduction Thesis Statement Point/Subject/Event (as many as you are making in your essay) Supporting evidence/examples Conclusion Restate Thesis