A structure markers recognise
A strong undergraduate essay usually does five jobs:
1. Frame the question in the introduction.
2. State a thesis — your answer, not a topic label.
3. Develop claims in body paragraphs, each with evidence.
4. Engage another view (counterargument or limitation).
5. Synthesise in the conclusion — a judgement, not a summary dump.
Introduction (about 10%)
- Context in 2–3 sentences
- The precise question you are answering
- Your thesis
- A brief roadmap
Avoid dictionary definitions unless the question is about definitions.
Body paragraphs
Use a simple pattern: claim → evidence → explanation → link back to the question.
If the question says compare, structure by criteria or themes — not by “Author A then Author B” alone.
Conclusion
Return to the thesis with more precision. Name the strongest reason for your judgement. Do not introduce brand-new evidence.
Check your draft
After outlining, run an assignment check to see whether the structure still answers the question.