A good essay begins with a thesis -- a statement which illustrates the main point of an essay. This may pose a question which will be answered later through evidence or may be a general statement proven throughout the body of the essay. Beginning with a thesis helps narrow the focus and direct attention to one specific point, making the content of the essay simpler to write and brainstorm.
Jot down any and all points you hope to make in your essay in bullet-point format. Supporting information will then be labeled according to importance. The letter "A" will be used to identify the firmest points. The decent points will be noted with the letter "B." Weak points which may require more support will be marked with the letter "C." Modify these points by adding numbers to further organize your information. The strongest point would be labeled "A1", the next strongest, "A2," and so forth.
Rewrite your points to further organize your work. Your thesis statement should be written at the top of the page, followed by your points for paragraphs A, B and C. If you find your information is more than you may fully illustrate in your essay, begin eliminating points from section C.
Begin composing your essay by writing a clear and effective introduction. A good introduction will introduce the topic of the essay and provide a clear transition into your thesis statement. Beginning with the introduction of the essay will help to narrow your focus and assist you in penning down your ideas more effectively.
Write the three body paragraphs of your essay using the information organized by the letters. Summarize the basic points of each paragraph in a topic sentence. Use the numbered points to compose the information inside each body paragraph. Using this method of composition, you are able to narrow the focus of each paragraph to include the main points that relate directly to the thesis.
Sum up the contents of the article with a strong conclusion. This is generally written after the introduction and the body paragraphs using the information developed throughout the essay. A strong conclusion will restate the information presented in the essay and explain its relevance to the thesis. Never introduce new information in your conclusion.