MLA Format Paper Example
- 26 July 2019
- 555 words
Standard questions about what is an essay and how to write such an academic paper are common for students and other individuals who need to complete this type of composition on a specific theme. Basically, this is because essay writing has specific rules people must follow to produce a high-quality paper and avoid plagiarism. Moreover, academic writing requires meeting the criteria of an essay structure with paragraphs by using an appropriate referencing style. As such, these guidelines offer a definition of an essay with examples, its format, steps to follow, basic structure, paragraph characteristics, referencing rules, how to avoid plagiarism, what to include, and what students should not do when organizing their academic texts.
General Aspects
Essay writing is a task that students repeatedly undertake during their schooling. Basically, essay prompts provided in a form of assignments contain questions and a set of instructions explaining key expectations of a final output. In writing, once students complete their research, they communicate an assessment of their findings through making an entire paper. Further on, drafting a text may prove problematic despite the comprehensiveness of the research done. Hence, developing a high-quality composition depends on an author’s knowledge of fundamental principles of a paper, which dictate its structure, paragraphing, referencing, and formatting standards.
What Is an Essay and Its Purpose
According to its definition, an essay is a structured piece and form of writing that presents a coherent argument, analysis, or reflection on a particular topic. For example, the main purpose of writing an essay is to communicate ideas, engage critical thinking, and offer more insights into a specific subject (Crossley & Tian, 2022). Whether written for academic, professional, or personal reasons, this type of paper is a powerful tool for expressing opinions, analyzing issues, and deepening understanding. Further on, a standard essay consists of an introduction, body paragraphs, and a conclusion, with each section serving a distinct purpose (Babin et al., 2020). In writing, an introduction sets a stage by presenting a unique topic and thesis statement, body paragraphs explore supporting points or evidence, and a conclusion ties everything together by summarizing main arguments or insights. Moreover, argumentative papers aim to persuade readers of a particular viewpoint, expository compositions provide explanations or information, and narrative texts tell a story or share a personal experience (Warburton, 2020). In terms of pages and words, the length of an essay depends on academic levels, assignment requirements, topic complexities, and types of writing, while general guidelines are:
High School
- Length: 1-4 pages
- Word Count: 250-1,000 words
- Details: High school essays are often short, focusing on basic argumentation, analysis, structure, and writing.
College (Undergraduate)
- Length: 2-6 pages
- Word Count: 500-1,500 words
- Details: College essays are typically more detailed in writing, requiring more critical analysis, research, and development of ideas.
University (Undergraduate Upper Years)
- Length: 3-8 pages
- Word Count: 750-2,000 words
- Details: University essays are more research-intensive in writing, demanding a stronger thesis and a more nuanced approach to argumentation.
Master’s
- Length: 4-10 pages
- Word Count: 1,000-2,500 words
- Details: Master’s essays require in-depth research, original thinking, advanced writing, and a comprehensive analysis of a subject matter.
Ph.D.
- Length: 5-12+ pages (can be longer for dissertation chapters)
- Word Count: 1,250-3,000+ words (for essays, not dissertations)
- Details: Ph.D. essays are highly specialized, involving original research, advanced theory, high-quality writing, and often contributing new knowledge to a specific field.
Format
| Section | Content |
|---|---|
| Title Page | Title of an essay |
| Student’s name | |
| Course name | |
| Instructor’s name | |
| Date | |
| Introduction | Introduces a specific topic. |
| Provides background information. | |
| States a thesis or main argument clearly. | |
| Body Paragraph 1 | Starts with a single topic sentence introducing a first main point. |
| Includes evidence or examples to support a point. | |
| Provides explanation or analysis of evidence or examples connecting to a first point. | |
| Ends with a concluding sentence or transition. | |
| Body Paragraph 2 | Starts with a single topic sentence introducing a second main point. |
| Includes evidence or examples to support a point. | |
| Provides explanation or analysis of evidence or examples connecting to a second point. | |
| Ends with a concluding sentence or transition. | |
| Body Paragraph 3 | Starts with a single topic sentence introducing a third main point. |
| Includes evidence or examples to support a point. | |
| Provides explanation or analysis of evidence or examples connecting to a third point. | |
| Ends with a concluding sentence or transition. | |
| Body Paragraphs 4+ (Optional) | Writing any body paragraph follows this basic sandwich rule. |
| Counterargument (Optional) | Presents opposing viewpoints. |
| Refutes or addresses these counterarguments. | |
| Conclusion | Restates a central thesis in light of arguments made. |
| Summarizes main points. | |
| Ends with a final thought, call to action, or implication of a main argument. | |
| List of References, Works Cited, or Bibliography (Optional) | Lists all academic sources cited in a document. |
| Follows a proper citation format (APA, Harvard, MLA, Chicago/Turabian, etc.). |
Note: Some sections of an essay can be added, deleted, or combined with each other, depending on specific course requirements or institutional guidelines. For example, a standard essay format refers to a structured arrangement of a paper’s components — such as an introduction, body paragraphs, and conclusion — following specific guidelines for organization, style, writing, and citation (Greetham, 2023). In writing, an essay typically consists of three to five paragraphs, including an introduction, at least two or three body paragraphs, and a conclusion, though longer papers may have more paragraphs. Further on, an essay introduction includes a hook to capture attention, background information on a specific topic, and a clear thesis statement outlining a main argument or purpose (Babin et al., 2020). Basically, students should write an essay by clearly stating their thesis, organizing their ideas logically, supporting their points with evidence, and revising for clarity, coherence, and grammar. Moreover, a thesis statement is a concise and well-formulated sentence that clearly expresses a main argument or point of an essay, guiding an entire direction and focus of writing (West et al., 2019). In principle, students need a thesis statement to provide a clear, focused argument that guides a clear structure of an entire paper and informs a reader of its purpose. Finally, the 5 basic steps to essay writing are understanding an assignment, researching a chosen topic, creating an outline, organizing a first draft, and revising for clarity and coherence (Warburton, 2020). In turn, to start an essay, people begin with an engaging hook or attention-grabber, provide necessary background information, and end an introduction with a clear and well-structured thesis statement that outlines a main argument.
Prompts
Note: To check some samples of essays, click on the links below:
- Impacts of the Fashion Industry on Global Pollution Levels
- Roles of Biotechnology in Sustainable Agriculture
- Balancing School Curriculum: Is Art Education as Important as Science?
- Importance of Dream Analysis in Understanding Subconscious Thoughts
- History of Cryptography and Its Modern Applications
- Mechanisms Behind Dream Formation and Interpretation
- Childhood Vaccinations and Their Importance in Society
- Exploring the Impact of Global Warming on Polar Wildlife
- Disruption in Traditional Retail: Impact of E-Commerce
- Influences of Social Media on Teen Mental Health
- Other Free Paper Examples
Steps on How to Write an Essay
To write an essay, people clearly define their thesis statement, organize their ideas into an introduction, body paragraphs, and conclusion, support their arguments with evidence, and revise for clarity and coherence. For example, the 7 standard steps of an essay are understanding a specific topic, conducting research, developing a thesis statement, creating a clear outline, writing an introduction, body, and conclusion, and finally revising and editing (Greetham, 2023). In writing, students should start an essay with an engaging hook, followed by relevant background information, and a clear thesis statement that outlines a main argument or purpose. As a result, some basic writing steps to follow are:
- Understand an Assignment: Ensure you fully grasp an assignment prompt and requirements before starting.
- Choose a Topic: Select a simple and clear subject that interests you and fits a central scope of a specific assignment.
- Conduct Research: Gather relevant information and find credible sources to support your thesis.
- Develop a Thesis Statement: Create a clear, concise, and well-structured statement that outlines a main argument or purpose of your paper.
- Create an Outline: Organize your main points, evidence, and explanations in a logical structure to guide your writing.
- Write an Introduction: Introduce a chosen topic, provide background, and state a thesis in an opening paragraph.
- Develop Body Paragraphs: Write paragraphs that each focus on a single point supported by evidence and analysis.
- Address Counterarguments: Consider and refute opposing views to strengthen your argument.
- Write a Conclusion: Summarize crucial points and restate a central thesis in light of the evidence presented.
- Revise and Edit: Review your composition and writing for clarity, coherence, unity, and grammar errors, and make necessary revisions.
Basic Structure
To write an essay, students need a clear thesis, well-organized ideas, supporting evidence, and a structured format with an introduction, body paragraphs, and a conclusion. In literature, essay writing is a unique process of composing a structured paper that presents a central argument, analysis, or explanation on a specific topic (Greetham, 2023). Moreover, people need to cite sources whenever they use someone else’s ideas, data, or words to support their argument, whether through direct quotes, paraphrasing, or summarizing, to avoid any form of plagiarism or academic misconduct. In turn, a basic writing structure is:
Introduction
An introduction is a first section of an essay. For example, if people know how to write an introduction, they begin with general information and end with a specific theme (Babin et al., 2020). In this case, students may employ a deductive approach to developing an introduction. Further on, an introduction paragraph typically has three major elements: background information regarding a topic, a definition of a paper’s content, and a thesis statement (Warburton, 2020). Basically, authors need to establish an entire context of a particular issue by providing an intended audience with some broad details. After a target audience has an idea of the topic to be discussed, people may briefly explain an entire flow of a given paper. Then, a final sentence in an introductory paragraph is a thesis statement, and this claim is a direct answer to a college prompt (Greetham, 2023). Hence, a well-developed introduction ensures a target audience can readily anticipate a specific content of a given composition. In turn, some examples of sentence starters for beginning an essay are:
- In an era defined by significant technological advancements and societal shifts, an issue of [topic] has gained increasing attention from scholars and policymakers alike.
- Throughout history, civilizations have grappled with different challenges posed by [topic], and understanding its evolution is crucial to addressing its modern implications.
- One of the most complex, hot, and debated topics in contemporary discourse is [topic], which contributes to shaping an overall public opinion and influencing policy decisions worldwide.
- As a modern world becomes more interconnected, a direct impact of [topic] on various aspects of society, including politics, economics, and culture, has become impossible to ignore.
- A key question of [topic] is not a new one, but recent developments in [related field] have brought new perspectives to this longstanding debate.
- Over the past few decades, a growing body of research on [topic] has highlighted its far-reaching consequences, making it a critical area of study in modern academia.
- From an earliest recorded history to a present day, a role of [topic] in shaping human behavior and societal norms has remained a subject of continuous exploration.
- While many believe that a hot debate surrounding [topic] is settled, new evidence suggests that there is much more to consider when examining its broader implications.
- A main purpose of thispaper is to explain a complex issue of [topic], covering its origins, current relevance, and potential future outcomes.
- In order to fully understand a real significance of [topic], it is essential to explore its historical roots and various factors that have contributed to its current form.
Body Paragraphs
A body of an essay forms a significant portion of a paper’s content. Basically, this segment consists of paragraphs, which act as building blocks for a central argument outlined in a thesis statement. For example, a topic sentence is a first sentence of a body paragraph that introduces a single main idea or point an entire section will discuss (Babin et al., 2020). In writing, each body paragraph contributes to an entire discussion regarding a main idea of a text. Hence, all body paragraphs are complete ideas that support a main claim (Warburton, 2020). Furthermore, there is no limitation on a specific length and number of paragraphs. However, authors should avoid lengthy paragraphs, which may be challenging to interpret (Greetham, 2023). Thus, body paragraphs are crucial in convincing an intended audience of a proposed claim.
Conclusion
A final section of an essay is a conclusion. For example, a conclusion paragraph consists of three parts: a restatement of a thesis, a summary of main points, and a broad closing statement (Babin et al., 2020). Essentially, a conclusion is an opposite of an introduction because this closing part employs an inductive approach. In writing, a first sentence is a repetition of a thesis statement but using different words (Greetham, 2023). Then, primary issues discussed in a body section are briefly summarized, preferably in the same order that they appear in a paper. In turn, conclusions do not contain any new information. Moreover, a closing statement is usually a general statement concerning possible implications or suggestions for future research paths (Warburton, 2020). As a result, a conclusion paragraph wraps up an entire composition by providing an overview of critical ideas.
Paragraphs and Their Requirements
Paragraphs have a relatively rigid structure, which is somewhat similar to a standard structure of an essay. For example, there are three segments in a paragraph: topic sentence, support sentence, and concluding or transition statement (Greetham, 2023). Firstly, a topic sentence is a single-statement introduction that informs a reader of an entire content of a single paragraph. Secondly, if people know how to write high-quality papers, they develop support sentences from pieces of evidence found through research and explain or prove an idea contained in a topic statement (Babin et al., 2020). Finally, a concluding sentence marks an end of a paragraph by tying individual pieces of evidence together. Alternatively, a transition sentence links a paragraph to a next one to create a smooth flow throughout a paper (Warburton, 2020). Hence, students must follow a described paragraph pattern regardless of an essay’s type.
Ideas in Paragraphs
Each paragraph contains a particular idea, which suggests there has to be a specific pattern for an entire presentation of various parts for an overall argument to be well understood. For example, some paragraph patterns commonly used in essays are analysis, compare and contrast, problem and solution, and cause and effect (Greetham, 2023). In writing, an analysis pattern is applicable in cases where a given topic is discussed by separating it into sections. Further on, each section creates a single paragraph, which has extensive explanations (Babin et al., 2020). In turn, other patterns are relatively identical because they split a paper into two distinct sections. Besides, no strict regulations define a specific order of sections (Warburton, 2020). However, a target audience must be able to distinguish these two aspects of a topic clearly. As a result, paragraph patterns provide the audience with a blueprint of the sequence used in presenting ideas.
Paragraph Structure
Multiple paragraphs that are developed for essay topics have to be ordered based on some criteria, and following key academic standards improves an overall clarity of a central argument. For example, the most common paragraph-ordering approaches are logical division, chronological order, and hierarchical order (Greetham, 2023). Basically, a logical division technique is useful in cases where a given topic is subdivided into different sections. Hence, each section is discussed separately before moving on to a next idea. Moreover, a chronological order is employed where a topic is analyzed based on a given sequence of events (Babin et al., 2020). In writing, a hierarchical order prioritizes a significance of each part to an overall argument and arranges paragraphs at a decreasing level of significance (Warburton, 2020). Finally, the criteria used for paragraph ordering is dependent on a main idea in an argument, which dictates a paragraph that should be written first.
Avoiding Plagiarism
In academic essays and other types of papers, authors must ensure they do not engage in plagiarism. For example, referencing is a technique that enables people to differentiate between their ideas and the ideas of other authors who have been used in developing an academic paper (Pears & Shields, 2022). In writing, referencing involves a provision of a citation, which directs a target audience to a source of an idea. Moreover, there are various paper formats people may employ during a writing process, for example, APA, Harvard, MLA, and Chicago/Turabian (Pears & Shields, 2022). Basically, each of these referencing styles has additional formatting rules that control an appearance of an essay by using sources or citing a website in an entire text. Thus, referencing and formatting styles establish consistency in writing practices.
Examples
Writing is a useful form of communication among people. Basically, people write essays to represent their ideas, discuss relevant issues, or share their feelings (Greetham, 2023). However, readers cannot accept all of the academic compositions not only because of mentioned ideas but also used structures. Typically, an essay consists of four main sections, including an introduction, body paragraphs, a conclusion, and some references if needed (Warburton, 2020). Moreover, people may need some information on how to write essay examples if they want to shape their knowledge and master their skills. Hence, an example of an essay on a theme of mass shootings with some explanations for each section of a paper includes:
Introduction
An introduction is a first section of any essay structure. For example, people start with introductions because they need to represent main idea readers will see in body paragraphs (Babin et al., 2020). Moreover, an introductory part ends with a thesis statement that represents a main idea of an essay.
Example of Writing an Opening Sentence in an Essay:
The United States has experienced multiple incidents of mass shootings at educational institutions.
Explanation:
This statement announces a topic and makes a general remark. Basically, it could be more than one sentence, depending on a complexity of a topic and a length of an essay.
Other Examples of Writing Other Sentences in an Essay:
Social media is one of the platforms that news media employs in an entire dissemination of information concerning mass shootings. Students who possess smartphones can easily access new updates posted on social media during a mass shooting incident.
Explanation:
This segment isolates a subject of an entire paper. Basically, it creates a bridge between broad opening statements and a narrow, focused thesis statement.
Example of Writing a Thesis Statement:
News media’s use of social platforms in delivering near real-time reports of mass shootings impairs an ability of victims to make split-second decisions because it is an unregulated form of mass communication.
Explanation:
A thesis statement states an author’s primary claim. In principle, such a snetence provides an audience with a preview of a content discussed in an essay and highlights its major subdivisions.
Body Paragraphs
A body of an essay is a second section, where students expand on information discussed in an introduction. For example, people may divide a body section into paragraphs (Greetham, 2023). Moreover, they must remember each body paragraph must cover a single idea.
Example of a Topic Sentence:
News media outlets have a potential to focus an attention of social media users on specific topics in a matter of minutes.
Explanation:
People place a topic sentence at the start of each paragraph. Basically, it is a crucial element of body paragraphs. Moreover, this sentence outlines a particular minor idea discussed in a paragraph.
Example of Cited Evidence or In-Text Citations for an APA format:
According to the Communications Authority of Chicago (2019), the Cable News Network (CNN) has 200 million followers on their Twitter page (p. 13). CNN has a significantly broad social media audience. Jonas and Rhodes (2017) found that the average American between 15 and 35 years logs into at least one social media platform every two minutes when not engaged in any productive activity (p. 23). This finding suggests that a tweet by CNN may reach millions of people in a relatively short time spun.
Explanation:
This section is reserved for an entire presentation of specific evidence and a complementary explanation of its relevance. In this case, the evidence provided must support a minor idea suggested in a topic sentence. Moreover, people must explain how cited information relates to a topic sentence to avoid plagiarism. In turn, if students do not explain their citations, it is one of the forms of plagiarism.
Example of Writing a Concluding or Transitional Sentence:
Therefore, it is plausible that new media outlets that upload near-real-time updates on mass shootings fast-track an entire spread of information concerning ongoing events.
Explanation:
A concluding sentence marks an end of a paragraph. In principle, it emphasizes a minor idea and links a paragraph to a thesis statement. Moreover, this sentence may act as a transition to a next body paragraph.
Conclusion
A conclusion is a last part of an essay. Basically, if people know how to write essay examples, a concluding part is not a problem (Warburton, 2020). In this case, students start by restating a thesis statement. Then, they discuss main points from body paragraphs. However, they must not provide new information. As a result, students end their paper with a last sentence, where they make a final claim on the topic.
Example of Restating a Thesis Statement:
Victims of mass shooting events are susceptible to the influence of social media content generated by news media, which complicates their decision-making process during high tension incidents.
Explanation:
Students restate a thesis statement to emphasize following a standard rule for writing essay examples. In turn, they must not copy and paste a main claim since it represents poor knowledge of writing.
Example of Writing Other Sentences in a Conclusion:
During mass shootings, students have to stay online to communicate useful information to appropriate agencies. However, the student’s online presence exposes them to disturbing information. In turn, key adverse effects of disturbing information outweigh its benefits.
Explanation:
Students develop a summary of main points discussed in a presented essay. Basically, this section may contain an author’s opinion in some types of essays. Besides, no new information should be introduced in this section by considering how to write academic paper examples.
Example of Writing a Last Claim in an Essay:
Internet services have proved to be a useful tool in resolving massive shootings, but educational institutions should encourage communication through controlled platforms.
Explanation:
An author recommends a course of action. Alternatively, a statement anticipating future trends may be written.
List of References, Works Cited, or Bibliography (Optional)
A reference is a source that people may use to strengthen their ideas. For instance, if students refer to evidence, ideas, or concepts of other authors, they must cite them by using defined paper formats, such as APA, Harvard, MLA, or Chicago/Turabian, to avoid plagiarism (Pears & Shields, 2022). Moreover, they may use many sources, depending on a specific volume and complexity of an entire work. In turn, they must implement only credible sources to avoid biased information.
What to Include
| Element | Description |
|---|---|
| Facts and Statistics | Use reliable data or figures to support arguments and strengthen claims. |
| Personal Experiences | Share personal examples or insights that relate to an essay’s topic. |
| Historical Events | Write about significant past events to provide context or evidence. |
| Quotes From Experts | Include statements or research from authoritative figures to back up an argument. |
| Examples | Provide specific instances to illustrate and clarify key points. |
| Case Studies | Present a detailed analysis of a particular case or situation relevant to a topic. |
| Analogies | Compare complex ideas with more familiar concepts to make arguments clearer. |
| Counterarguments | Discuss and refute opposing viewpoints to make a paper more balanced and persuasive. |
| Definitions | Explain key terms or concepts that are central to an essay’s argument. |
| Current Events | Reference recent developments or news related to a topic being discussed. |
Common Mistakes
- Lack of a Thesis Statement: Failing to present a focused argument leaves an essay without direction.
- Poor Organization: Disorganized structure makes it difficult for readers to follow a central argument.
- Weak Introduction: Starting an academic paper without properly setting up a specific topic or engaging readers can weaken its impact.
- Insufficient Evidence: Not providing enough examples or research weakens an overall credibility of your argument.
- Overgeneralization: Making sweeping statements without supporting specifics can lead to inaccuracies and oversimplification.
- Ignoring Counterarguments: Failing to address opposing viewpoints weakens an entire depth and balance of an entire composition.
- Repetitiveness: Repeating same points multiple times instead of expanding an argument reduces a paper’s effectiveness.
- Overuse of Complex Sentences: Writing overly complicated or convoluted sentences can confuse readers and obscure your argument.
- Grammar and Spelling Errors: Neglecting to proofread can result in distracting mistakes that reduce an overall quality of a presented text.
- Weak Conclusion: Ending an entire content without effectively summarizing key points or leaving a lasting impression diminishes a paper’s overall impact.
Summing Up
There are certain aspects of how to write an essay correctly, which students and other people need to comprehend to do a good academic paper. Firstly, a basic essay structure consists of an introduction, body, and conclusion. Secondly, critical concepts of paragraphing are structure, patterns, and order. Lastly, an actual importance of referencing styles and their implications on formatting affects an overall quality of a presented composition. Therefore, essay writing is a skill that can be nurtured with an adequate practice of highlighted principles.
References
Babin, M., Burnell, C., Pesznecker, S. M., Rosevear, N., & Wood, J. R. (2020). The word on college reading and writing. Open Oregon Educational Resources.
Callinan, C. J., van der Zee, E., & Wilson, G. (2017). Developing essay writing skills: An evaluation of the modelling behaviour method and the influence of student self-efficacy. Journal of Further and Higher Education, 42(5), 608–622. https://doi.org/10.1080/0309877x.2017.1302564
Crossley, S., & Tian, Y. (2022). Argumentation features and essay quality: Exploring relationships and incidence counts. Journal of Writing Research, 14(1), 1–34. https://doi.org/10.17239/jowr-2022.14.01.01
Greetham, B. (2023). How to write better essays. Bloomsbury Academic.
Pears, R., & Shields, G. J. (2022). Cite them right: The essential referencing guide (12th ed.). A&C Black.
Warburton, N. (2020). The basics of essay writing. Routledge.
West, H., Malcolm, G., Keywood, S., & Hill, J. (2019). Writing a successful essay. Journal of Geography in Higher Education, 43(4), 609–617. https://doi.org/10.1080/03098265.2019.1655720
