Dos and don'ts of an essay

An essay's job is to make one point clearly and support it. These dos and don'ts cover the most common things that make an essay work — or fall apart.

Do

• Do state a clear thesis. End your introduction with one sentence that says what you argue and, ideally, the reasons that support it.
• Do make each paragraph one point. A body paragraph should make exactly one argument. If it makes two, split them.
• Do support every claim. For each point, give a reason, an example, or evidence. An unsupported claim is just an opinion.
• Do use a clear order. Put your points in a logical sequence so the reader follows the argument from start to end.
• Do address the counter-argument. Acknowledge the other side and answer it. This makes your argument stronger and more honest.
• Do restate the thesis in the conclusion. Return to your point and show why it matters, without introducing new arguments.

Don't

• Don't be vague. A thesis like "essays are important" says nothing. Be specific about what you argue and why.
• Don't mix points in one paragraph. This is the most common essay weakness — it makes the reader work to follow you.
• Don't pad. A paragraph that does not support your point, however well written, should be cut. Length is not the goal; argument is.
• Don't skip the counter-argument. Ignoring the other side makes your essay feel one-sided and less persuasive.
• Don't introduce new ideas in the conclusion. The conclusion is for closing, not for starting a new thread.
• Don't write as you speak, message-style. Use full, clear sentences and a serious-but-plain tone.

The quick test

Read your introduction aloud. If someone could state your thesis back to you in one line, you have a strong essay. If they cannot, tighten it.

Checklist

• My introduction ends with a specific thesis.
• Each body paragraph makes one point.
• Every claim is supported.
• My argument is in a clear order.
• I addressed the counter-argument.
• My conclusion closes without new points.