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Read the topic or essay question. Your essay or paper will likely be directed by a question or a prompt, like a quote, with a question. It’s important that you read the question carefully and understand what it is asking of you. If you have created your own topic for the paper based on an assigned piece of literature or author, ensure you understand what you are expected to be exploring in the paper. o For example, you may get a prompt in the form of quotation from a work of literature, such as: “What a piece of work is a man! How noble in reason! how infinite in faculty! in form, in moving, how express and admirable! in action how like an angel! in apprehension how like a god! the beauty of the world! the paragon of animals! And yet, to me, what is this quintessence of dust?” - Hamlet by William Shakespeare.[1] o You may be given an essay topic based on an assigned book or text, such as: “Discuss how Shakespeare’s Hamlet treats the idea of suicide in a moral, religious, and aesthetic sense. Pay particular attention to Hamlet’s two important soliloquies on suicide: “O, that this too solid flesh would melt” (I.ii.129–158) and “To be, or not to be” (III.i.56–88). Why does Hamlet believe that most human beings choose to live, despite the cruelty, pain, and injustice of the world?”[2] 1. 2

Research your topic. Before you get into structuring and writing your essay, take some time to do research on your topic. If your essay is about suicide and Hamlet, for example, you should start by reading the play again and highlighting any sections that discuss suicide, injustice, cruelty, or pain. You may also want to look at several academic articles that examine the play’s approach to suicide and mortality to use as sources or references. o If your topic is based on a historical framing of a text or book, such as the rise of 19th century factory life in Charles Dickens’ A Tale of Two Cities, you will need to use other resources besides the book as supporting material for your paper. o Always cite your sources properly in your paper, as failing to do so can lead to accusations of plagiarism and a failing grade. Never simply copy and paste information from a source into your paper, as this is considered plagiarism. You will need to quote the source and cite the source, or paraphrase the source so you are still using your own words to discuss the topic. 2. 3

Take notes during your research. Use a highlighter or a pencil to mark any relevant passages or quotes in the text. If you are using online sources, copy and paste relevant quotations into a blank Word document. Write down notes about how the source relates to your topic. You can then use these notes to create your thesis statement and to structure your essay.

Part2

Structuring Your Paper

1. 1

Brainstorm your thesis statement. A thesis statement will explain the points or arguments you are going to make in your paper to your reader. It acts a road map for your paper and should answer the question, “What is this paper about?” It should take a stand and announce your position towards the topic.[3] o For example, an essay about suicide and Hamlet may respond to an essay question with the thesis statement: “In Shakespeare’s Hamlet, Hamlet’s fear of moral and religious punishment prevents him from ending his suffering through suicide and reinforces the complex nature of action in the play.” 1. 2

Organize your research notes. Go through your research notes and identify any key quotes or sections that you can use a supporting material for your paper. Look for a strong quote to open your essay in your introduction, or to end your essay in your conclusion. Consider how your notes from other sources will inform your essay. 2. 3

Create a five paragraph outline. Many students use the five paragraph essay form to structure their paper. However, some teachers frown upon this structure and argue that you can use as many paragraphs as you need in your essay, as long as there is a clear introductory paragraph and a clear concluding paragraph. The five paragraph essay outline is:[4] o Introduction: Your beginning paragraph should contain an engaging first sentence and your thesis statement. Some writers find it easier to write create a temporary introduction and revise it once they are finished with the essay. This will ensure the introduction is cohesive with the rest of the essay. o Body paragraph 1-3: Each paragraph should begin with a topic sentence. You should also discuss one major point of your thesis, with at least one supporting example in each paragraph. o Conclusion: This paragraph should summarize your main argument and restate your thesis. You may also want to include last thoughts around the essay question and answer any questions or concerns you presented earlier in the paper. 3. 4

Use a less formal structure to outline the paper. There are other ways to structure an English paper beyond the five paragraph essay, especially if you are writing a paper or essay at the college level. Consider structuring your essay around three basic parts:[5] o The introduction: This beginning paragraph should draw your reader in and act as a signpost for the rest of your essay. State your thesis and explain the purpose of the essay or paper. o The multi-paragraph body: These paragraphs are like building blocks, as they move your reader toward the goal or purpose of the essay. Each paragraph should expand on your main point or points and contain supporting examples for each point. However, some paragraphs may be longer than others to develop your points fully, and you are not restricted to only three paragraphs for the body of your essay. Always include transitions between each paragraph so the paper flows smoothly and the reader does not get confused or overwhelmed by your supporting points. o The conclusion: This section is the final destination of the reader's journey through your paper. Your conclusion can be more than one paragraph, but it should reinforce the purpose of your essay or the main idea of your essay and connect to the points made in your introduction. Avoid repeating your thesis statement or the earlier points made the essay. Instead, use the points you developed in your body paragraphs to strengthen your position in your conclusion. At the end of your paper, you should feel you have made a strong case to change the reader's mind about a topic or issue.

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