Essential Elements of Academic Writing

A. Structure

Introduction

Includes a thought, question, quote, or other literary device to spark interest in the
topic for readers
Introduces the essays topic/purpose clearly and concisely (called thesis statement)
Communicates the relevance and importance of the topic
Previews the major points to be covered in the body of the paper

Body

Includes two or more major points which develops the topic of the essay
Uses an organizational structure which is easy for readers to follow in developing the
major points (e.g. chronological, logical, or other approach)
Major points are organized in paragraphs. Paragraphs are at least 3 sentences in length
The body of the paper communicates an argument major points develop and
reinforce the thesis statement (i.e. topic and purpose of the essay)

Transitions

o Transitional words and sentences connect the various parts of the paper into a
unified whole. Transitions are used effectively to guide readers from one section
of the paper to the next

Conclusion

Repeats the thesis statement topic and purpose of the essay

Reviews major points presented in the essay
Presents concluding thoughts or ideas on the topic
Challenges readers inspires readers to take a different perspective, change
behaviors, or take action based on the information presented on the topic

B. APA Style and Formatting

Includes a separate title page with paper title, student name, course, due date, and
faculty name. An abstract is not required for 100 and 200 level courses
Paper is double-spaced, uses 12-point font size, has 1 margins, and utilizes Times New
Roman, Arial, or Courier font
Identifies sources used with in-text citations and includes a References page at the
end of the paper

C. Avoiding Plagiarism

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