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WHAT IS THE OVERALL ORGANIZATIONAL STRUCTURE OF AN ESSAY IN ENGLISH?
by Kathy McLain, M.A.   In English 101 and 102 most short papers, except the research papers, will be two to five pages.  Your instructor will give you the assigned length either in number of words or in number of pages.  Unless instructed otherwise, most essays in English 101 and English 102 will be submitted in MLA format.  For instructions on correct MLA format, refer to the section "MLA Format Questions."

Most essays except narration and definition will include the following:

1.  An introductory paragraph that should state clearly the specific issue or problem to be addressed in the paper and the thesis statement (purpose of the paper).

2.  Three to five supporting paragraphs that directly support the thesis of the paper.

3.  A concluding paragraph that summarizes the major points of each body paragraph and restates the thesis.

You should compose a clearly worded thesis statement and create a clear outline of your paper before you actually begin the first draft of your paper.