Academic Essay Structure: Introduction, Body & Conclusion (With Template)

The short answer

Most academic essays follow introduction (context + thesis), body paragraphs (claim, evidence, analysis), and conclusion (synthesis, not new arguments). Match structure to discipline conventions.

Strategies that work

• Introduction: hook, background, clear thesis answering the prompt.
• Body: one main idea per paragraph with topic sentences.
• Evidence integrated with analysis—explain why quotes matter.
• Conclusion: restate thesis in light of evidence; implications or limits.
• Use transitions so readers follow logic between paragraphs.

Mistakes to avoid

• Thesis too vague or descriptive instead of arguable.
• Ending with brand-new evidence in the conclusion.
• Wall-of-text paragraphs without signposting.

Put it into practice this week

• Outline five paragraphs before drafting prose.
• Highlight thesis, topic sentences, and evidence in different colors.
• Peer-review or tutor-review one draft for structure only.