Example: Writing a One-Page Essay with the 5-Paragraph Writing Technique

The 5-paragraph writing technique is perfect for short essays, and even long ones. An essay is a persuasive paper in which the writer uses evidence to argue that their opinion is true. Every term paper you’ve ever had to write was basically an essay.

If you have to write a one or two page paper for class, this writing technique will be your best friend.

To use the 5-paragraph writing technique to organize your essay, follow these steps:

STEP 1: Identify what opinion, position, or argument you want to make. (In advanced terms, this is called the “thesis” of your paper.) Write that opinion as a statement.

STEP 2: Select three pieces of evidence that you want to use to support the statement you’ve written in Step 1.

STEP 3: Write an introduction that introduces your essay topic, and previews the three pieces of evidence you will explain to make your case.

STEP 4: For each piece of evidence you’ve listed in Step 2, write one paragraph that explains what the evidence is and how is supports your opinion.

STEP 5: Write a brief conclusion, restating your opinion and reviewing the three pieces of evidence that support your conclusion.

Seems too simple doesn’t it? That’s not a problem!

Simple organizations help make sure your ideas and thoughts are easy to follow. They make the reader’s job easier, and besides, you don’t need to impress graders with complicated organization—you need to impress them with your writing ability, ideas, and critical analysis.

For a little light reading, here’s a brief example essay about dogs:

Of all the pets you can own, dogs are by far the best. I’ve owned lizards, cats, and fish, but dogs are truly man’s best friend.

Dogs are easier to take care of than lizards. Lizards need to have special heat lamps to help them regulate their body temperatures. Dogs on the other hand, are comfortable at the same temperatures as people. You don’t need any special lamps! 

Dogs are friendlier than cats—than some cats. Most cats can be shy and run away from you when you come into the room. Other cats can get angry at you when you approach them. Sure there are some shy or angry dogs, but most are happy to see their owners when they come home. Some are so happy, they bring you a toy and immediately want to play. Most cats might think you’re an alright owner, but very few can be as affectionate as a dog.

Finally, dogs are better than fish. This is obvious. You can’t really pet a fish, can you? You can’t play with a fish, except to make it chase your finger when you drag it across the glass. Fish are for watching, and you can’t really interact with them unless you go swimming in the tank. Dogs don’t need water to breathe. They can live with you in the open air, and interact with you too. 

Although dogs might not be the best pet for everyone, for me they are perfect. They are easier to keep than lizards and fish that need aquaria and special lamps. They are friendlier than (most) cats. Of all the pets I ever had, I’ve only ever considered my dog to be my friend.

It’s admittedly a lame little essay, but even if you’re a cat person, you probably had an easy time reading it and following my thought process. The introduction set up the reader for what to expect by stating an opinion and then previewing the evidence I’d give to support it. Each paragraph explained my evidence of why a dog is better than another pet, and in the end, I reminded you of my opinion and quickly summarized the essay.

Easy to write, easy to read, and—maybe most importantly for students—easy to grade!

“Wait a minute!” you say. “What about when I have to write a 10-page paper? What then?”

Check back tomorrow for tips on how to use the 5-paragraph writing technique to write long essays.

And stay tuned as I post more examples of how to apply the 5-paragraph writing technique to many different types of communication products including:

• Cover letters 
• Emails
• Long Essays
• Speeches
• 5-paragraph writing technique introduction

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