An essay is a formal text that addresses a specific topic or theme through analysis, interpretation, or speculation. It has a clear structure consisting of an introduction, three main body paragraphs developing arguments or points, and a conclusion. Each paragraph also has its own structure, with a topic sentence, supporting details, and concluding sentence. To write an essay, one must first structure paragraphs around a central thesis before introducing the topic, developing arguments in the body, and concluding by restating the main idea without new information.

1. ESSAY
IB English HL

2. What is it?
 An essay is a type of text that addresses a
particular theme or subject. It´s written in
prose and it can be analytic, speculative or
interpretative.
General structure of
an essay

3. When is it used?
 Unlike a brochure or
a diary entry, an
essay is a very
formal text type.
 An essay is used to
elaborate on a
specific topic and
give a point of view
that is backed by
solid arguments.

4. Structure
 The structure of an essay is one of it´s most
fundamental characteristics.
 Although there are many variations, the most
basic of structures consists of: Introduction,
body (3 solid arguments or points), and
conclusion.
 Introduction and conclusion are just one
paragraph long as well as each argument,
thus a basic essay will consist of at least 5
paragraphs.

5. Essay Paragraph
 A paragraph in an essay also has it´s own
structure. Similarly to an essay, a paragraph
consists of three parts: topic sentence,
supporting sentences and concluding
sentences.
 Topic sentences introduce the idea that the
paragraph will adress.
 Supporting sentences sustain the idea with
example and details
 Concluding sentences round up the idea with
a closing statement.

6. How to make an essay?
 To build an essay you first need to build
paragraphs.
 The introduction paragraph should present the
main topic of your essay without giving away
any detail.
 The body of the essay present the points that
support your main thesis (what you want to
say).
 The concluding paragraph should address the
main idea and the arguments of the essay
without introducing new information.

7. Essay Structure in a Nutshell
 Introduction: You tell them what you´re going
to tell them.
 Body: You tell them
 Conclusion: You tell them what you just told
them.

8. Characteristics of an Essay
Structure 3 main parts: Introduction, body ( 3
ideas) and conclusion.
Register Formal
Heading Focused on the topic
Images Omitted most of the times
Visuals Black font and white background, no
images. Formal presentation
Other Essay should focus on a main idea
and supporting details.