| Below is a guideline for the organization of a five paragraph essay. Each paragraph should be a minimum of five sentences long. Use a standard paragraph or standard paragraph with introduction format. |
| Paragraph One |
A general statement of your purpose in your opening. This is known as your thesis statement. Follow your thesis statement with your three main points, one sentence per point. End your opening paragraph with a concluding sentence. Paragraph One has an introductory tone. You are presenting to the reader what is going to be covered. |
| Paragraph Two |
Present one of your main points here. If you used a prewriting outline, this would be main point I. Early in the paragraph use a topic sentence to clearly state your main point. Follow your main point with at least three subpoints or details that support your main point. Each detail is presented in its own sentence or two. End your paragraph with a concluding sentence. |
| Paragraph Three | Same as paragraph two, but present your second main point. If you used a prewriting outline, this would be main point II. |
| Paragraph Four | Same as paragraph two, but present your third main point. If you used a prewriting outline, this would be main point III. The main point presented and supported in Paragraph Four should represent your best or strongest point. |
| Paragraph Five |
Write a summary paragraph to conclude your essay. Restate your thesis in a sentence. Restate each main point in its own sentence. End with a concluding sentence. Paragraph Five has a concluding tone. You are summarizing for the reader what you have convered and guiding the reader's reaction. This is your last chance to make your point. |