Begin by creating a paragraph heading or subheadings for the essay. This could be few words or a sentence. The heading essentially states the central idea discussed in the paragraph. For example if writing an essay on the distance education model, the headings for three paragraph subheads could be "Distance Education as a Concept," "The Learning Modes" and "Difference Between Distance and Online Education." More paragraphs can be added with their respective subheads.
Each paragraph will cover a specific portion of the subject, as indicated by the subheadings. The next step is to create pointers for each paragraph. Pointers support the main idea as suggested by the paragraph heading. Depending upon the subject matter, the number of pointers can be decided. Continuing with the education example, pointers in the case of the paragraph mentioning the learning modes would be Internet, print material, recorded tapes, etc. With each pointer, leave about five to 10 lines.
The blank lines left after each pointer now have to be filled in with relevant pointer-specific elaboration. Elaboration could be anything, i.e., there could be basic conceptual details about the discussed subject, or discussion upon suitability or there could be supporting points picked from different sources. The idea is to describe the point and thus, by eliminating all doubts, enable better understanding. To the extent possible, support description with relevant examples.
Each paragraph in the body of the essay could end with its own summary statement. This is optional but, especially if a particular point is being debated all through the paragraph, the summary statement clearly states the conclusion. Also, readers do not always have the time to read through the entire essay. In such situations the summary connects with the paragraph headings, thereby providing the relevant details at a glance. Be a little cautious here; the summary statements shouldn't appear manipulative or too suggestive.