Essay Structure Checklist

Introduction
A good introduction usually includes:
1. A statement to get the reader’s interest (avoid using rhetorical questions)
2. Background information and context (situation)
3. A clear thesis statement
4. An outline of the essay structure
You could also include:
5. A definition of a key term
6. A citation
Does your introduction include all these features?

Paragraphs
What should a paragraph have?
1. A topic sentence.
2. Development
3. An example
4. Another example (possibly)
5. An explanation
6. A concluding sentence
If you have used a definition, is the definition clear?

Look at your essay. Do all your paragraphs include the above features?

Paragraph Check List:

1. Does your paragraph contain 1 topic and 1 main point?
2. Is it clearly organised? (e.g. above)
3. Does it include at least 2 items of supporting material from source texts in the form of
a summary, paraphrase or quotation?
4. Are the citations of source material introduced clearly, referenced correctly and
explained/evaluated as necessary?
5. Is there a range of sentence patterns, especially where source material is paraphrased?
Conclusion
Conclusions tend to be shorter and more diverse than introductions. Generally, the final
section summarises the arguments and makes it clear to the reader that the original question
has been answered. Signal to your readers that you have finished your writing and leave them
with a clear impression that you have achieved the purpose(s) of your essay.
Conclusions typically include:
-a summary of the main points (be careful not to repeat exactly what you have written)
-concluding statements drawn from the points you made in the main body
-suggestions or recommendations for action to be taken (not always)
-predictions formed from information in the main body (not always)

Proof Reading
Have you carefully checked your text for slips in:
- Spelling/ punctuation
- Grammar (e.g. verb forms, articles use, singular/plural nouns)
- Style (e.g. avoiding informal vocabulary and contractions)
- Reference list and in-text citations (correct order, correct information)
- Have you acknowledged all your sources?

Formatting:
Please ensure your essay:
- Font – Times New Roman
- Size – 12
- Spacing – 1.5
- Justified (outer edges are all even)
- Clear paragraphs (no headings)
- Page numbers
- Insert pg number
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Final Submission
Your essay should have:
- An official cover page (available on Sulis)
- Your essay title
- An introduction
- Well structured body paragraphs
- A concise conclusion
- A reference list