* Topic sentence: This sentence introduces the main idea of the paragraph and directly relates back to the thesis.
* Evidence: This consists of facts, statistics, examples, quotations, anecdotes, or other supporting details that prove the topic sentence and, consequently, the thesis.
* Analysis/Explanation: This is where the writer explains how the evidence supports the topic sentence and the overall argument. The writer connects the evidence to the main idea, showing the significance and relevance of the information.
* Transitions: Words and phrases that smoothly connect sentences and ideas within the paragraph and between paragraphs, ensuring a logical flow of information.
Essentially, the body paragraphs are where the writer does the "heavy lifting" of proving their point. They provide the substance and details that convince the reader of the essay's validity.