1. A Brief Guide to Effective Writing: Part 3
Sentence Skills: A Workbook for Writers, Form B John Langan

2. Structure of the Traditional Essay
Parts of an essay:
Introductory paragraph
Body (supporting) paragraphs
Concluding paragraph

3. Point and Support in an Essay
In an essay, the thesis appears in the introductory paragraph, and the support appears in the paragraphs that follow.

4. Introductory Paragraphs should
attract the reader’s interest;
advance the thesis; and
preview the major points that will support the thesis.

5. Common Methods of Introduction
1: Begin with a general statement of your topic.
2: Start with an idea or a situation that is the opposite of the one you will develop.
3: Use an incident or a brief story.
4: Ask one or more questions.

6. Body/ Supporting Paragraphs should
begin with a topic sentence that states the point to be detailed in that paragraph.

7. Transitional Sentences
Transitional, or linking, sentences are used between paragraphs to help tie them smoothly together.
Ex.: Many of the other patrons are even more of a problem than the concession stand.
(Concession stand reminds us of the previous supporting paragraph, while Many of the other patrons introduces the point to be developed next.)

8. Concluding Paragraphs
The End
briefly restate the thesis and the main supporting points, and
present a concluding thought about the subject of the paper.

9. Common Methods of Conclusion
1: Provide a summary and a final thought.
2: End with a prediction or recommendation.

10. Some Tips on Writing with a Computer
First and most important tip:
If you don’t write using a computer,
START NOW!

11. Some Tips on Writing with a Computer
Save your work frequently.
Keep a backup disk.
Print out your work at the end of every session.
Copy your file before making major changes – you might want to go back to the original!