1. Introduction

• Hook if possible
• Give the context/overview surrounding the essay topic in a few sentences
  • Explain the controversies/major opinions on the topic (detail both stances of the topic)
• Thesis statement that takes a position on the topic
  • Either defend, challenge, or qualify a claim that the prompt gives you
  • Defend or challenge: State position (x is beneficial or x is disadvantageous) because/so that (list reasons)
  • Qualify (Agree with one part, but disagree with another): While (x can [agreement]), x is/isn’t [disagreement]

2. Body Paragraph 1-3

• (Main idea) Topic sentence presenting first supporting point of your claim
• Evidence #1 showcasing specific part of claim
• Commentary on evidence #1
  • (Explain evidence) [proves/supports/confirms/highlights/exemplifies/qualifies/refutes/disproves/shows the limitations of/suggests/implies] [insert idea based on claim] because (explain how evidence relates to claim by stating assumptions)
  • Consequently, (if/since) (assumption related to evidence that can be linked to claim) (explain outcome of assumption in regards to claim)
  • Therefore, (since/due to the fact that) (another assumption related to previous evidence that can be linked to claim) (explain outcome of assumption, tie back to thesis)
• Evidence #2 continuing to showcase the specific part of claim
• Commentary on evidence #2

3. Conclusion

• Summarize points developed and defended throughout the essay
• Restate thesis

Example essay I wrote using this template:

https://docs.google.com/document/d/1qBgKgwSsdU1cpgq7hhUTd7HtIz1UBi_HswnKWxVlkbs/edit?usp=sharing