General Essay Format!
How Do I Write an Introduction?
• First, you want to start by introducing the
topic in a general way (1-2 sentences).
– Make sure to do this in a way that grabs your
reader’s attention!
How Do I Write an Introduction?
• Next, you want to start narrowing down
your topic and getting more specific
(1-2 sentences).
How Do I Write an Introduction?
• Then, you want to state your main point
about your topic. This is your THESIS
STATEMENT! (1-2 sentences)
How Do I Write an Introduction?
• If you want, you can then: state the
supporting points you will use to support
your thesis statement.
Example of an Effective
Introduction
Most readers look at a short story and
think that only the most literal
interpretation of its events is valid. In
“Swaddling Clothes” by Yukio Mishima,
students tend to think that the story is
about the birth of a child in Japan in the
1960’s because of the references and
descriptions. However, this story actually
takes place a long time ago, in a galaxy far,
far away. This is made clear by Toshiko’s
numerous references to light-sabers, The
Empire, and X-Wing fighters.
What’s Next???
Body Paragraphs!
How Do I Write a
Body Paragraph?
• Start with: a topic sentence that clearly
states what that paragraph is going to be
about.
How Do I Write a
Body Paragraph?
• After your topic sentence, give plenty of:
details and examples!
– Examples from what you have observed
“Most readers don’t see the connection between
‘Swaddling Clothes’ and ‘Star Wars’”
– Examples from what you have read if you are
responding to a reading
“Mishima clearly states that Toshiko’s husband was
a Jedi.”
– Information from outside sources if you are doing
research
“Time Magazine wrote that, “Swaddling Clothes is
obviously just ‘Star Wars’ in a different context.”
Am I Done Yet???
How Do I Write a
Conclusion Paragraph?
• First: Remind the reader what the topic was.
“Swaddling Clothes”
• Then: Remind the reader what your position
is/what your thesis statement is.
“Swaddling Clothes = Star Wars”
• Conclude with: some new insight on the topic or
look to the future.
“I hope the next “Star Wars” movie has Toshiko in
it.”