Does writing an essay feel overwhelming? You're not alone—many students feel that way at first. But once you break it down into smaller steps, it becomes much easier (and maybe even fun!). Let’s go through it step by step so the task feels clear and manageable.
Start with the Basics
Begin by brainstorming a few ideas. Once you’ve landed on a topic, make sure your thesis statement includes both:
A topic (what you're writing about)
A controlling idea (what you want to say about it)
Example: The Importance of Sleep in Our Lives
Topic: Sleep
Controlling idea: Its importance in our lives
Your first paragraph should include:
A hook to grab the reader’s attention
A bridge or connecting sentence
Your thesis statement
Example Hook: "Why do I have to go to bed?" you ask. "Sleep is boring, and I'm not even tired!"
Bridge: But sleep is more important than you may think. That groggy, sluggish feeling? It means your brain isn’t at its best.
Thesis: Sleep plays a crucial role in helping us function well and feel our best.
Each of your three body paragraphs should start with a topic sentence that connects back to your thesis. It should include both the topic and a controlling idea.
Use transition words to guide the reader:
To start paragraphs: Firstly, Secondly, Furthermore, Finally…
Inside paragraphs: In addition, Also, For example, Moreover…
Each body paragraph should include:
2–3 supporting ideas
Clear examples or explanations for each
A concluding sentence that restates the topic sentence in new words
Tip: Vary your sentence lengths—mix short, medium, and longer ones to keep it interesting
Try using:
Colons to introduce a list or explanation
Example: There are three reasons I value sleep: rest, recovery, and mood.
Semicolons to join two related complete sentences
Example: I felt tired; I hadn’t slept well the night before.
Don’t forget to check:
Subject–verb agreement
Spelling and grammar
Articles (a, an, the)
Proofread at least twice! The second time, read it out loud to catch anything you missed.
Your final paragraph should:
Restate your thesis in a fresh way
Include a connecting sentence
End with a prediction, suggestion, or personal opinion
Avoid repeating the same ideas or using redundant words.
Example to avoid: “I saw many different and unique shells that day.” (“Different” and “unique” mean nearly the same thing.)
Does your hook grab attention?
Is your topic interesting?
Did you include enough support with clear examples?
Did you ask why, how, who, what, when, and where to dig deeper into each topic?
Does each body paragraph end with a concluding sentence?
Did you proofread your essay? Twice?
Be creative. Be curious. Try something new. Write about topics that excite you. Surprise your teacher and yourself. And don’t forget to show your parents what you’ve written. :)