Essay Structure

Start with the overall shape

The Essay Structure page is one section of the Essay and Argumentative Writing unit in English language. Its resources offer different ways to look at how an essay is organized, from the opening to the conclusion.

Start with the mind map Essay Structure, which considers parts of an essay, introductions, conclusions, background and counterargument. Then look at the note Writing an essay for an outline that moves from an introduction through arguments for and against to a conclusion.

Move from the opening to the argument

The note on the general structure of an English essay focuses on an introduction with a hook, a link to a statement, an overview and a thesis statement. Use it alongside Writing an essay to compare the suggested elements of an opening.

Next, explore the Essay Writing mind map. It includes context, definitions, criteria and assumptions, as well as topic sentences, evidence, elaboration, analysis and links. It also includes transitions, counterargument and limitations. Follow the branches to see how the resource groups these parts.

Use maps and quizzes together

Mind maps make the connections between ideas visible. After reading one, try describing its main branches in your own words or sketching an outline based on them. The page also lists quizzes you can take. Use the questions as a prompt to return to a map or note and look again at an idea you want to understand.

For another view of paragraph planning, How to improve your essay writing includes an introduction, paragraphs for ideas and linking words. Comparing it with Essay Writing can help you consider both the order of paragraphs and what goes inside them.

Connect your study

These resources focus on essay structure within the wider Essay and Argumentative Writing unit. Move between the topic page and the unit as you study, using the maps and notes to organize your thinking. Choose a map to explore, then try a quiz alongside it.