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  • Basic Expository Essay
  • Introduction to Essay Writing
  • What Is an Essay?

What Is an Essay?

An essay is a multi-paragraph piece of writing that supports, explains, or proves a thesis statement. It usually includes an introduction, at least 2 body paragraphs, and a conclusion.

Look below to see an essay that has a TOTAL of 5 paragraphs.

  • an introduction
  • 3 body paragraphs 
  • a conclusion
Basic Expository Essay

Introduction to Essay Writing

1. What Is an Essay?

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2. What Are the Parts of an Essay?

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3. QUIZ: Parts of an Essay

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STEP 1--Read and Analyze the Prompt

1. What Is a Prompt?

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2. How to Analyze a Prompt

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STEP 2--Write the Thesis

1. What Is a Thesis Statement?

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2. How to Write a Thesis Statement

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3. QUIZ: Thesis Statement

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STEP 3--Write the Topic Sentences

1. What Is a Topic Sentence?

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2. How to Write a Topic Sentence

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Step 4--Elaborate the Topic Sentences

1. What is Elaboration?

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2. How to Elaborate YOUR Topic Sentences

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3. How to Make the Automatic Outline (123 and abc)

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4. Some Elaboration Structures

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5. What is an Anecdote?

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6. How to Write an Anecdote

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STEP 5--Write the Introduction and Conclusion Pair

1. What is an Introduction and Conclusion Pair?

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2. How to Write an Introduction and Conclusion Pair

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STEP 6--Remove Formatting to Create Paragraphs

1. How to Remove the Formatting to Make Paragraphs

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