

As you write informally (even a bulleted list can help), react to your own writing. This writing in order to establish a focus is something that you do for yourself, without being concerned about how it will come across to an audience. But even before that, you may need to write a bit to make certain that the subject is narrow enough to be manageable. Initially, you may be unsure about what you want to say, and you may have to do some preliminary writing to begin to develop your viewpoint. Always keep in mind that your instructors will provide specific guidance on the appropriate length and format for particular writing assignments. On the other hand, under some circumstances even fewer than five paragraphs may be appropriate. If you are exploring a complex issue, five paragraphs may not be enough. In reality, essays have as many paragraphs as they need to have. That organization may have worked as a school exercise, but going forward you cannot always rely upon that template. In grades K-12, some instructors assign the five-paragraph theme: introductory paragraph, three body paragraphs, concluding paragraph.

In the past, one choice may have been made for you. (Even length is left vague.) The organization, the length, the style, the tone-often these are determined not by any template but by an author making choices in response to purpose, context, and audience. Notice that this description does not specify a format. For example, an essay may recount an event, develop a position on an issue, or describe a person, place, or thing. How is a thesis statement like a claim?Īn essay is a relatively short piece of nonfiction prose that explores an idea or topic.How do I use my thesis statement to talk to other people?.Where should I place my thesis statement?.Does a personal essay have to have a thesis statement?.

Specifically, this section will offer answers to these questions: The following section of the Handbook will introduce you to the factors that are important for creating a piece of writing with a clear focus. For readers, a clear focus is essential for their understanding of a writer’s message and purpose. Explore a focused topic in writing.įor writers, developing a clear focus is an essential part of the writing process.
