The Three-Part Essay
An essay is a piece of academic writing made of several paragraphs organised around one main argument. Almost every essay has three parts:
| Part | What it does |
|---|---|
| Introduction | introduces the topic, gives background, states the thesis |
| Main body | develops the argument in several paragraphs, one idea each |
| Conclusion | summarises the main points and adds a final comment |
The introduction often has a "funnel" shape: it begins with broad, general statements and gradually narrows down to the specific thesis statement. The conclusion does the reverse — it begins specific and widens out to a final comment.
Tip: Think of the essay as a journey: the introduction leads the reader in (general → specific), the body does the work, and the conclusion leads the reader out (specific → general).
Common mistake: Starting an essay straight with the thesis and no background. Lead the reader in with one or two general statements first.
✏️ Test Yourself
1. The three parts of an essay are introduction, main body, and ___ .
2. The introduction has a ___ shape (general to specific).
3. Each body paragraph develops ___ main idea.
4. The conclusion summarises and adds a ___ comment.
📒 Words to learn
Meaning — guilt as a confederate in a crime or offense
“His complicity was condemnable.”
Meaning — To give support or encouragement To make a copy of (file, program, etc.)
“I’m going to be very strict with him. I hope you’ll back me up on this?”
Meaning — cause to feel shame
“Don’t mortify him.”
Meaning — invent a story or lien
“She knew she was in trouble, so she made up a story about going to the movies with her friends.”
Meaning — infinitely wise
“Books make us omniscient.”