Image 1. There are many ways to write an essay. The five-paragraph essay is just a starting point. It teaches you the basics of how to organize your thoughts. Photo from Pixnio
A five-paragraph essay is a prose composition. It follows a specific format. There is an introductory paragraph, three body paragraphs, and a concluding paragraph.

Starting Off Right: Writing A Good Introduction

The introduction is the first paragraph in your essay. It should accomplish a few specific goals. The introduction has to make the reader interested. It also has to introduce the topic and make your thesis clear.

It's a good idea to start your essay with a really interesting statement. This can also be accomplished by using descriptive words. Or you can start off with a good question, an interesting fact or an anecdote. An anecdote is a short, catchy story about a real person or thing.

The next few sentences should explain your first statement. It should also prepare the reader for your thesis statement. This is typically the last sentence in the introduction. Some teachers, however, may want the thesis to be the very first sentence. Your thesis sentence should provide your specific claim. It should communicate a clear point of view, which is typically divided into three distinct arguments that support this claim.

Explaining Your Thesis: Writing Body Paragraphs

The body of the essay will include three paragraphs. Each paragraph is limited to one main idea that supports your thesis.

In order to properly write each paragraph, you should do the following: First, state the main idea of the paragraph. Then, add ideas that support the main idea. Finally, make a transition statement.

Image 2. The structure of a five-paragraph essay. Image: Newsela staff.
There are many ways to transition to the next paragraph. Using a transition word or phrase helps your reader prepare for what comes next. It helps guide them through your essay.

Pulling It All Together: Writing A Conclusion

The final paragraph will summarize your main points and reassert your thesis sentence. It should remind the reader of your main points. It should not repeat specific evidence. The conclusion should leave a lasting impression on the reader.

The first sentence of the conclusion should restate the supporting claims argued in the body paragraphs as they relate to the thesis statement. The next few sentences should explain how the essay's main points can lead to further thought on the topic.

There are many ways to end an essay. Ending the conclusion with a question, anecdote or final thought is a great way to leave a lasting impact.

You're not quite done just yet.

It's a good idea to take another look at the thesis statement in your first paragraph. Read your whole essay. See if it flows well. Does each paragraph help show why your thesis statement is true? You might find that the supporting paragraphs are strong, but they don't address the exact focus of your thesis. In that case, you can rewrite your thesis sentence to fit your body and summary more exactly. Adjust the conclusion to wrap it all up nicely.

Practice Writing A Five-Paragraph Essay

Follow these steps:

1. Decide on your basic thesis, your idea of a topic to discuss.

2. Decide on three pieces of supporting evidence you will use to prove your thesis.

3. Write an introductory paragraph, including your thesis. Introduce the evidence you'll use.

4. Write your first body paragraph, starting with restating your thesis and focusing on your first piece of supporting evidence.

5. End your first paragraph with a transitional sentence that leads to the next body paragraph.

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. Repeat step 6 using your third piece of evidence.

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

10. End with a punch. Use a question, an anecdote, or an entertaining thought. Choose something that will stay with the reader.

Also Practice Other Forms Of Writing

Five-paragraph essays are usually the rule when writing for standardized tests. Students should also experiment with expressing themselves through other kinds of writing. Examples are journal entries, blog posts and longer research papers.

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