Essay Structure

Start with the shape of an essay

Begin with the note How to Write a Good Essay, a basic guide to outlining essay structure. Then look at Essay Structure, a mind map that describes an essay as a coherent set of ideas shaped into an argument. Together, they offer a starting point for thinking about both the outline and the ideas it holds.

For a paragraph-by-paragraph view, use the mind map on introductions, paragraphs and conclusions. An essay template mind map also lays out an introduction, main points, a conclusion and references. You can compare these outlines with the structure you are working on.

Develop the argument

Academic Essay Strategy maps an introduction from a topic and a controversy toward a thesis statement. It also shows how a body paragraph can use a clear argument and supporting examples. Look at the map after the basic outline to see how ideas can fit within paragraphs.

Essay Techniques adds prompts about planning, structure and presenting ideas. Use its branches alongside your outline to check what you want to include. The page also has maps about essay length, including how length relates to the subject, level of study and course requirements.

Use the resources together

This page has no quizzes, so use the mind maps for a self-check instead. Cover the branches of a map, sketch the outline from memory, then compare your sketch with the resource. Return to the note if you want another view of the structure.

Essay Structure is a section of the Essay Writing unit in Research methods and academic skills. The resources connect planning and organizing ideas with the wider work of essay writing. Choose a map to use alongside your next outline.