Key Points.

When prewriting, first you have to get started by:

  1. Figuring out what to write about,
  2. Gathering information,
  3. Brainstorming,
  4. Drafting your thesis statement, and
  5. Creating an outline.

Next, while drafting, be sure to include all the necessary information in each part of your essay:

  1. Introduction
    1. Background and context: Give enough information to get your reader ready for the main point of your essay.
    2. Thesis statement: The main point of your essay.
  2. Body Paragraphs – (Each body paragraph should have all of these parts!)
    1. Topic sentence: The main point of the paragraph, including how it supports your thesis.
    2. Details: Include the information that proves and supports the main idea of your body paragraph, as stated in the topic sentence.
    3. Analysis: Immediately after a detail that supports your paragraph’s point, use your own words to explain HOW it supports your point.
    4. Concluding sentence: Recap the main point of your paragraph.
  3. Conclusion
    1. Restate the main point: In a sentence or two, wrap up the main point of your whole essay to make sure your readers have understood what you want them to.
    2. Leave your reader with something to chew on: Give the reader an interesting perspective from which to consider your main point.

After you’ve completed a first draft of your essay, you’re not done yet—it’s time to start Revising.