1. By: Husain Baaqel
ENC 1102
Kyle Stedman

2. Writing an Essay
The most important factors to consider when writing
an essay are a proper introduction and conclusion.
These two paragraphs are the backbone of the essay.
It’s sort of like a sandwich. The introduction and
conclusion symbolize the bread slices.

3. The Introduction!
First impressions are very important.
The first sentence of a paper sets the stage for a
lasting opinion.1
The start of the introduction should always grab the
reader’s attention.
When starting the introduction, do NOT blatantly
announce the purpose of the essay.2
Example: In this paper, I will….
1: Quoted from Grace Fleming’s “How to Write a Strong Introduction”
2: Adapted from- Things NOT to do in an introductory paragraph.

4. Introduction Guidelines
When writing an introduction, important concepts to
keep in mind are:
Clearly state the subject being dealt with
State the narrow topic the paper is focusing on
End the introduction with a clear thesis by mentioning
the position being taken

5. The Dreaded Thesis Statement!
Coming up with a proper thesis statement can be
difficult.
To make this process simpler follow these simple
rules3
:
Make the thesis statement narrow, specific and clear
Do NOT promise any analysis or review on the topic
Try to find a specific argument to defend
Yes!: I will argue that the use of marijuana should be
legalized.
No!!: I wish to review the pros of making marijuana
legal.
3: Quoted from “How to write a structured essay”

7. Wrapping It Up
The conclusion provides the writer one last chance to
persuade the reader.
It should contain the restated thesis and a summary
of the main points.
The most important thing to remember is that the
conclusion should “convey a sense of completeness
and closure as well as a sense of the lingering
possibilities of the topic.”4
4: Harvard’s website on Writing a Conclusion

8. A Conclusion Should NOT…
Be a simple summary of the essay
Contain an apology for your position on the
argument
Allow readers the chance to question your stance on
the topic
Do not undercut your authority by using phrases such
as: “This is just one approach..” “It seems like…”
Begin with: “in conclusion,” “to conclude,” or “in
summary”5
5: Harvard's Website on Writing a Conclusion

9. In the end…
Using these simple
tips will help you
create effective
introduction and
conclusion
paragraphs which
will make your
essay flow.

10. "A Proper Introduction: Things NOT to do in an introductory paragraph." The Guide to
Grammar and Writing. Capital Community College Foundation. 29 Apr 2009
<http://grammar.ccc.commnet.edu/GRAMMAR/intros.htm>.
Bellanca, Pat. "Ending The Essay: Conclusions." Writing Center. 1998. Harvard University.
29 Apr 2009
<http://www.fas.harvard.edu/~wricntr/documents/Conclusions.html>.
Fleming, Grace. "The Introductory Paragraph: Start With a Great First Sentence."
About.com. 29 Apr 2009
<http://homeworktips.about.com/od/paperassignments/a/introsentence.htm>.
"How to Write a Structured Essay." EastChance.com. 2000. 29 Apr 2009
<http://www.eastchance.com/howto/struct_es.asp>.