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Five Paragraph Essay

A Guide to Writing a Five-Paragraph Essay

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What is a 5 Paragraph Essay?

A five-paragraph essay is a structured format of essay writing that consists of one introductory paragraph, three body paragraphs, and one concluding paragraph. It is also known by several other names, including Classic Essay, Three-Tier Essay, Hamburger Essay, and One-Three-One Essay.

This type of essay format is commonly taught in middle and high school and is mainly used for assignments and quick writing exercises. The five-paragraph essay is designed to help writers organize their thoughts clearly and logically, making it easier for readers to follow the argument or narrative.

The structure is popular because it works for almost all types of essays . Whether you're writing a compare and contrast or argumentative essay , this format helps you organize your thoughts clearly. It's best for topics that can be explained well in just five paragraphs.

Steps to Write a Five-Paragraph Essay

Writing a five-paragraph essay involves clear and structured steps to effectively communicate your ideas. Here’s how to do it:

Step 1: Understand the Assignment

Knowing your topic before you start writing is really important. The first thing you need to do is figure out what your essay is supposed to be about. This is usually called the thesis statement or main idea.

If your teacher didn’t give you a specific topic, you should pick something that you can talk about enough to fill five paragraphs.

Here are some tips to help you understand your topic:

Think about what interests you or something you already know a bit about. It’s easier to write when you care about the topic.
Read through the assignment carefully to see if there are any specific instructions or questions you need to answer.
If you’re not sure about your topic, try talking it over with someone else—a friend, family member, or even your teacher—to get some ideas. You can also find some good essay ideas by checking out our essay topics blog.

Once you’ve picked a topic, take a moment to write down what you already know about it. This can help you see if you need to do more research or if you have enough to start writing. Understanding your topic well from the start makes the writing process much smoother.

Step 2: Outline Your Essay

Creating an outline is like making a plan for your essay before you start writing. An essay outline helps you organize your ideas and decide what you want to say in each part of your essay.

Your outline acts as a guide that reveals any gaps or the need for rearranging ideas. It functions like a roadmap that guides you through writing your essay, so it should be easy for you to understand and follow.

To create a good outline think about the most important things you want to say about your topic. These will be your main ideas for each body paragraph .

Here’s a simple 5-paragraph essay outline template:

: Start with an engaging opening sentence. : Give context about your topic. : State your main argument clearly.

: Introduce your first main idea. : Provide evidence or examples. : Connect to the next paragraph.

: Introduce your second main idea. : Provide evidence or examples. : Connect to the next paragraph.

: Introduce your third main idea. : Provide evidence or examples. : Connect to the conclusion.

: Summarize your main argument. : Recap your main points. : End with a final idea related to your topic.

Step 3: Write the Introduction

Writing the essay introduction is like inviting someone into your essay—it sets the tone and tells them what to expect. Here’s how to craft a strong introduction:

First, start with a hook . This could be something surprising or interesting, like a shocking fact or a thought-provoking question. It’s meant to grab your reader's attention right away, making them curious about what you’re going to say next.
Next, provide some background information about your topic. This helps your reader understand the context of your essay. Think of it like setting the stage before a play—you want to give enough information so that your audience knows what’s going on.
Finally, write your thesis statement . This is the main point of your essay summed up in one clear sentence. It tells your reader what you’re going to argue or explain throughout the rest of your essay.

For Example:

For the exercise essay, an introduction could start with: "Did you know that regular physical activity not only keeps you fit but also enhances your mental well-being? Exercise is more than just a way to stay in shape—it's a key to a healthier, happier life."

Step 4: Develop Body Paragraphs

Developing body paragraphs is like building the main part of your essay—it’s where you explain your ideas in detail. Here’s how to do it effectively:

First, each body paragraph should have one main idea that supports your thesis. This main idea is introduced in the topic sentence , which is like a mini-thesis for that paragraph. It tells your reader what the paragraph is going to be about.

After you introduce your main idea, you need to support it with evidence. These could be examples, facts, or explanations that help prove your point. Imagine you’re explaining your idea to a friend—you’d give reasons and examples to make them understand and believe what you’re saying.

Step 5: Transition Between Paragraphs

Smooth transitions between paragraphs are like bridges that connect one idea to the next in your essay. They help your reader follow your thoughts easily and see how each point relates to the overall argument.

To use transitions effectively, think about how each paragraph connects to the next. If you're moving from talking about one idea to another that contrasts or supports it, use transition words like "however," "similarly," or "on the other hand." These words signal to your reader that you're shifting to a new point while still maintaining the flow of your argument.

For example, if you're discussing the physical benefits of exercise in one paragraph and want to transition to its mental benefits in the next, you might write:

"After discussing the physical benefits of exercise, it's important to consider its impact on mental well-being as well."

Step 6: Write the Conclusion

Writing an essay conclusion is like wrapping up a conversation. You want to remind the reader of what you've discussed and leave them with something to think about. Here’s how to do it:

Start by summarizing the main points of your essay. Go over the key ideas from each of your body paragraphs. This reminds the reader of what you’ve covered without going into too much detail again.
Next, restate your thesis in different words. This helps reinforce your main argument and shows that you’ve supported it throughout your essay.
Finally, end with a final thought or recommendation . This could be a call to action, a suggestion, or a thought-provoking statement that leaves the reader thinking about your topic.

For Example :

"In conclusion, incorporating regular exercise into your routine not only improves your physical fitness but also enhances your overall quality of life. Start small, stay consistent, and reap the rewards of a healthier, happier you."

Step 7: Revise and Edit

Revising and editing your essay is like giving it a final polish to make sure everything is clear and correct. Here are some tips for revising and editing:

Take a Break: After writing your essay, take a short break before you start revising. This helps you see your work with fresh eyes.
Read Aloud: Reading your essay out loud can help you catch errors and awkward sentences.
Ask for Feedback: Sometimes, another person can spot mistakes you’ve overlooked. Ask a friend or family member to read your essay and give feedback.
Be Patient: Don’t rush the revision process. Take your time to ensure your essay is the best it can be.

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5 Paragraph Essay Examples

Here is some free 5-paragraph essay example pdfs for you to download and get an idea of the format of this type of essay.

5 Paragraph Essay Benefits of Exercise

5 Paragraph Essay on Technology

5 Paragraph Essay on What Makes A Good Friend

5 Paragraph Essay on Cell Phones in School

5 Paragraph Essay on Climate Change

5 Paragraph Essay about Sports

5 Paragraph Essay about Cats

5 Paragraph Essay about Love

5 Paragraph Essay Topics

Here are some common and trending topics for 5-paragraph essays:

Discuss needed changes to improve the education system.
Analyze the effects of globalization on society.
Explore ways to promote sustainable practices.
Address issues of healthcare equity.
Examine progress and challenges in gender equality.
Discuss the impact of immigration policies.
Explore needed changes in the criminal justice system.
Analyze ethical dilemmas in science and medicine.
Discuss the effects of global pandemics.
Explore the importance of diversity and inclusion.

So, learning the five-paragraph essay isn't just about school, it's about building strong communication skills that will serve you well in any writing task. By following this structured approach—you'll be writing with confidence in no time.

Now that you've got the basics down, don't hesitate to put them into practice. Whether you're tackling assignments for school or exploring new topics on your own, these skills will help you organize your thoughts.

And if you ever need a helping hand, visit our website and request " do my paper for me ." Our expert writers are ready to assist with any type of assignment, from college essays to research papers. Don’t wait—take your writing to the next level today!

Frequently Asked Questions

How long is a five-paragraph essay.

A five-paragraph essay typically ranges from 500 to 1000 words in total length. The essay word count may vary based on the specific requirements provided by the assignment or academic standards set by the instructor.

Is a 5 paragraph essay 500 words?

Not necessarily. The word count of a five-paragraph essay can vary widely depending on the topic, level of detail in each paragraph, and specific instructions provided by the teacher or professor. While some five-paragraph essays might be around 500 words, others could be shorter or longer.

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Guide on How to Write a 5 Paragraph Essay Effortlessly

What is a 5-paragraph Essay

5-paragraph essay is a common format used in academic writing, especially in schools and standardized tests. This type of essay is structured into five distinct sections: an introduction, three body paragraphs, and a conclusion. The introduction serves to present the main topic and ends with a thesis statement, which outlines the primary argument or points that will be discussed. This format is favored because it provides a clear and organized way to present information and arguments.

The three body paragraphs each focus on a single point that supports the thesis statement. Each paragraph begins with a topic sentence that introduces the main idea of the paragraph, followed by supporting details, examples, and evidence. This structured approach helps the writer stay on topic and provides the reader with a clear understanding of the arguments being made. The consistency in structure also aids in the logical flow of the essay, making it easier for the reader to follow and comprehend the writer's points.

The conclusion, the final paragraph, summarizes the main points discussed in the essay and restates the thesis in a new way. It provides closure to the discussion and reinforces the essay's main argument. The 5-paragraph essay format is an effective tool for teaching students how to organize their thoughts and present them clearly and logically. It is a foundational skill that serves as a building block for more complex writing tasks in the future.

Guide on How to Write a 5 Paragraph Essay

Writing a 5-paragraph essay becomes manageable if you follow these simple and effective tips below from our admission essay writing service :

1. Plan Before You Write: Before you start writing, create an outline to organize your thoughts and ensure a logical flow of ideas. This will help you stay on track and cover all your points. Draft an outline with headings for the introduction, each body paragraph, and the conclusion. Under each heading, jot down the main points and supporting details.

2. Focus on Main Points : Stick to your main arguments and avoid adding unnecessary information. This keeps your essay clear and easy to understand. If your thesis is about the benefits of exercise, each body paragraph should discuss a specific benefit, such as improved health, increased energy, or better mood.

3. Maintain a Smooth Flow : Use transition words to link your paragraphs and ideas. This helps the reader follow your argument seamlessly.

Examples : "Furthermore," "In addition," "Moreover," "On the other hand," "In conclusion."

Example Sentence : "In addition to improving physical health, exercise also enhances mental well-being."

4. Provide Strong Evidence: Use facts, examples, and quotes to back up your arguments. This makes your essay more convincing and credible.

Example : "According to a study by the World Health Organization, regular physical activity can reduce the risk of chronic diseases by up to 30%."

5. Vary Your Sentence Structure : Mix short and long sentences to keep your writing engaging. This helps maintain the reader's interest and makes your essay more dynamic.

6. Proofread and Revise : Review your essay for grammar mistakes, spelling errors, and unclear sentences. Make necessary revisions to improve clarity and coherence. : After writing your essay, take a break and then read it again. This helps you spot mistakes you might have missed initially.

7. Stay Focused on Your Thesis: Ensure that all your paragraphs support your thesis statement. If your thesis is about the importance of education, every paragraph should relate to how education impacts individuals and society.

8. Manage Your Time: Allocate specific times for planning, writing, and revising your essay. This helps you stay organized and avoid last-minute stress. For example, spend 10 minutes outlining, 30 minutes writing, and 10 minutes proofreading for a 50-minute essay task.

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5 Paragraph Essay Format

The five-paragraph essay format is designed to provide a clear and straightforward structure for presenting ideas and arguments. This format is broken down into an introduction, three body paragraphs, and a conclusion, each serving a specific purpose in the essay.

Introduction 📚	Details 📝	Example 💡
Hook: Start with a sentence that grabs the reader's attention. This could be a quote, a surprising fact, or a rhetorical question.	Background Information: Provide a brief context or background information about the topic.	Example: "Education is the most powerful weapon which you can use to change the world," said Nelson Mandela.
		Example: In today's world, education is more important than ever for achieving success and creating opportunities.
Thesis Statement: State your main argument or point clearly. This will guide the rest of your essay.	Example: This essay will discuss the importance of education, its impact on career success, and its role in personal development.
Body Paragraph 1 📄
Topic Sentence: Introduce the first main point.	Supporting Details: Provide evidence, examples, and explanations to support the point.	Example: First and foremost, education provides individuals with the knowledge and skills necessary for career success.
Supporting Details: Provide evidence, examples, and explanations to support the point.	Example: For instance, studies show that individuals with higher education levels tend to have higher earning potential and more job opportunities.
Body Paragraph 2 📄
Topic Sentence: Introduce the second main point.	Supporting Details: Provide evidence, examples, and explanations to support the point.	Example: Additionally, education fosters critical thinking and problem-solving skills.
Supporting Details: Provide evidence, examples, and explanations to support the point.	Example: Through coursework and real-world applications, students learn to analyze situations, make informed decisions, and solve complex problems.
Body Paragraph 3 📄
Topic Sentence: Introduce the third main point.	Supporting Details: Provide evidence, examples, and explanations to support the point.	Example: Finally, education plays a crucial role in personal development and growth.
Supporting Details: Provide evidence, examples, and explanations to support the point.	Example: Education exposes individuals to diverse perspectives and ideas, encouraging them to develop a broader understanding of the world and their place in it.
Conclusion 🎓
Restate Thesis: Summarize the main argument in a new way.	Summarize Main Points: Briefly recap the points discussed in the body paragraphs.	Closing Thought: End with a final thought or call to action.
Example: In conclusion, education is essential for career success, critical thinking, and personal growth.	Example: By providing knowledge and skills, fostering problem-solving abilities, and promoting personal development, education lays the foundation for a successful and fulfilling life.	Example: Investing in education is investing in a brighter future for individuals and society as a whole.

Types of 5 Paragraph Essay

There are several types of five-paragraph essays, each with a slightly different focus or purpose. Here are some of the most common types of five-paragraph essays:

Narrative essay : A narrative essay tells a story or recounts a personal experience. It typically includes a clear introductory paragraph, body sections that provide details about the story, and a conclusion that wraps up the narrative.
Descriptive essay: A descriptive essay uses sensory language to describe a person, place, or thing. It often includes a clear thesis statement that identifies the subject of the description and body paragraphs that provide specific details to support the thesis.
Expository essay: An expository essay offers details or clarifies a subject. It usually starts with a concise introduction that introduces the subject, is followed by body paragraphs that provide evidence and examples to back up the thesis, and ends with a summary of the key points.
Persuasive essay: A persuasive essay argues for a particular viewpoint or position. It has a thesis statement that is clear, body paragraphs that give evidence and arguments in favor of it, and a conclusion that summarizes the important ideas and restates the thesis.
Compare and contrast essay: An essay that compares and contrasts two or more subjects and looks at their similarities and differences. It usually starts out simply by introducing the topics being contrasted or compared, followed by body paragraphs that go into more depth on the similarities and differences, and a concluding paragraph that restates the important points.

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5 Paragraph Essay Example Topics

Choosing a specific and interesting topic can make your essay stand out. Here are 20 more engaging essay topics that provide a good starting point for your 5-paragraph paper:

Why Is Recycling Important for Our Planet?
The Day I Met My Best Friend
How Does Playing Sports Benefit Children?
What Are the Challenges of Being a Teenager Today?
A Time I Made a Difficult Decision
My Most Embarrassing Moment
How Can We Encourage People to Read More?
How I Spent My Last Summer Vacation
The Best Gift I Ever Received
What Makes a Good Friend?
My Experience Learning a New Skill
How Do Video Games Affect Our Brains?
Why Is It Important to Learn About Different Cultures?
The Day I Got My First Pet
How Can Schools Better Prepare Students for the Future?
An Adventure I Will Never Forget
A Time I Helped Someone in Need
What Are the Pros and Cons of Remote Work?
The Most Interesting Person I Have Met
How Does Peer Pressure Affect Our Decisions?

General Grading Rubric for a 5 Paragraph Essay

The following is a general grading rubric that can be used to evaluate a five-paragraph essay:

Criteria 📊	Details 📝

Based on the points discussed, your paper needs to show a good grasp of the topic, clear structure, strong writing skills, and critical thinking. Teachers use this rubric to assess essays comprehensively and give feedback on what you do well and where you can improve. If you want to simplify meeting your professors' expectations, you can buy an essay from our experts and see how it can ease your academic life!

Five Paragraph Essay Examples

Final thoughts.

Writing a five-paragraph essay might seem challenging at first, but it doesn't have to be difficult. By following these simple steps and tips, you can break down the process into manageable parts and create a clear, concise, and well-organized essay.

Start with a strong thesis statement, use topic sentences to guide your paragraphs, and provide evidence and analysis to support your ideas. Remember to revise and proofread your work to ensure it is error-free and coherent. With time and practice, you'll be able to write a five-paragraph essay with ease and confidence. Whether you're writing for school, work, or personal projects, these skills will help you communicate your ideas effectively!

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Is a 5 Paragraph Essay 500 Words?

How long is a five-paragraph essay, how do you write a 5 paragraph essay.

is an expert in nursing and healthcare, with a strong background in history, law, and literature. Holding advanced degrees in nursing and public health, his analytical approach and comprehensive knowledge help students navigate complex topics. On EssayPro blog, Adam provides insightful articles on everything from historical analysis to the intricacies of healthcare policies. In his downtime, he enjoys historical documentaries and volunteering at local clinics.

Updated definition, writing tips and format
Added FAQs and topics
Secrets of the Five-Paragraph Essay | UMGC Effective Writing Center . (n.d.). University of Maryland Global Campus. https://www.umgc.edu/current-students/learning-resources/writing-center/writing-resources/writing/secrets-five-paragraph-essay#:~:text=The%20five%2Dparagraph%20essay%20consists
Outline for a Five-Paragraph Essay . (n.d.). https://www.bucks.edu/media/bcccmedialibrary/pdf/FiveParagraphEssayOutlineJuly08_000.pdf

Transcripts
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A Sample Five-Paragraph Essay

The Benefits of Regular Exercise

by Bette Latta, Professor of English, University of Tennessee

The Benefits of Regular Exercise	Comments
[1] In recent years, many people have become increasingly aware of the need for physical fitness.* Almost everywhere people turn, whether it is to a newsstand, television or billboard,* advise for guarding and improving health bombards them. Although much of this advice is commercially motivated by those eager to sell vitamins, natural foods and reducing gimmicks,* some of it, especially those advocating a regular exercise program, merits serious attention. Such a program, if it consists of at least 30 minutes three times a week and if a person’s physician approves it,* provides numerous benefits. Regular exercise releases tension, improves appearance, and increases stamina.*	* The introduction begins with a broad view of physical fitness generally, but also engages the reader by connecting with general experience. * Notice that the writer reaches past the general “Almost everywhere people turn” to the more specific and concrete “newsstand, television, or billboard.” * Again notice the specifics—not just “to sell products” or “to sell stuff.” The specifics make the idea more convincing and create more associations for the reader. Notice how the introduction is a good place to present background, definitions and limitations that affect the thesis and topic generally.

[2] The first of these benefits, the release of tension, is immediate.* Tension builds in the body because of an over accumulation of adrenaline produced by stress, anxiety, or fear.* Doctors agree that performing calisthenics or participating in an active sport such as tennis or volleyball for 30 minutes releases tension. If a person swims, jogs, or rides a bicycle for half that time, he or she should sleep better at night and have a better temperament the next day. In addition, after the release of tension, petty irritations and frustrations should be less troubling.* For example, an employee upset by the day’s work and by traffic congestion may rush home, argue with the family, and eat excessively. Taking about 30 minutes to release frustration through physical exercise could help the person to avoid this behavior. Planned physical exercise, therefore, can eliminate, or at least control, tension.*	This sentence offers the paragraph’s idea (release of tension), renews the essay idea (these benefits), and alerts the reader to the underlying logic of the arrangement of main ideas (“is immediate” suggests to the reader that the essay will follow a chronological order, the order in which the benefits become available.) Notice the specifics in the next two sentences—specific activities and benefits. Notice how the general term,” petty irritations and frustrations” is followed by specific examples. *This closing sentence reinforces both the main paragraph and the essay idea.

[3] An improved appearance is the second benefit of regular exercise.* Exercise takes perhaps a month or longer to show its results in a trimmer, firmer figure. Improvement, however, will come. A person who is 10 pounds overweight, for instance, may be able during this time to burn away most excess fat and to tighten muscles, thereby reshaping the physique. Having improved muscle tone and even posture, he or she will wear clothes more attractively and comfortably. Combined with a sensible diet, an exercise program will also improve a person’s skin tone. This improved appearance will provide confidence and favorably impress others.	*See how the paragraph discusses specific aspects of regular exercise as they relate to improving appearance. These include improving one’s figure, weight, muscle tone and sensible diet.

[4] In addition to the self-confidence generated by an improved appearance, increased physical strength produces stamina.* A stronger, healthier body is obviously more capable of working harder and, in fact, of withstanding normal fatigue than a tense, weak one. A worker who exercises should be able to complete a 40-hour week and still have enough energy for mowing the grass, painting the garage, or cleaning window. Similarly, the student who goes to school, keeps house and perhaps works part time should accomplish tasks efficiently. Equally important, this stamina helps to ward off illnesses such as colds and influenza. Altogether, improved endurance is one of the most important benefits of a regular exercise program.	* Note the transition, pointing back to the preceding paragraph and ahead of the new paragraph idea. * Note the paragraph’s structure: logical and coherent.

[5] Although easy solutions to the goals of losing weight and achieving an attractive, energetic body saturate the media,* actually acquiring these benefits is not easy. The rewards, however, are fully worth the effort on an established exercise program that makes a person feel relaxed, look healthy, and have adequate strength for strenuous as well as routine activities.*	This is an example of the “circle close.” The conclusion returns to the introduction, repeating the initial example, question, problem or statement that opens the essay. This provides a satisfying sense of overall design and completeness, and strengthens unity. This is not the only approach to an effective conclusion, and sometimes it seems artificial or forced, but it is often smooth, effective and easy. Be sure to notice how it works here by rereading the introduction to see how it is repeated here. Note how clearly the essay idea and the main supporting points are reinforced through there restatement here. The overall pattern of the essay follows old advice for public speaking: “Tell them what you are going to tell them; Tell them; Tell them what you told them.” In a short essay, this approach sometimes seems like overkill—but there is little risk of your readers being confused.

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Writing Resources

This form of writing goes by different names. Maybe you've heard some of them before: "The Basic Essay," "The Academic Response Essay," "The 1-3-1 Essay." Regardless of what you've heard, the name you should remember is "The Easy Essay."

Once you are shown how this works--and it only takes a few minutes--you will have in your hands the secret to writing well on almost any academic assignment. Here is how it goes.

Secret #1—The Magic of Three

Three has always been a magic number for humans, from fairy tales like "The Three Little Pigs" to sayings like “third time’s a charm.” Three seems to be an ideal number for us--including the academic essay. So whenever you are given a topic to write about, a good place to begin is with a list of three. Here are some examples (three of them, of course):

Topic : What are the essential characteristics of a good parent? Think in threes and you might come up with:

unconditional love

Certainly, there are more characteristics of good parents you could name, but for our essay, we will work in threes.

Here's a topic that deals with a controversial issue:

Topic : Should women in the military be given frontline combat duties?

The first reason that women should be assigned to combat is equality.
The second reason is their great teamwork.
The third reason is their courage.

As you see, regardless of the topic, we can list three points about it. And if you wonder about the repetition of words and structure when stating the three points, in this case, repetition is a good thing. Words that seem redundant when close together in an outline will be separated by the actual paragraphs of your essay. So in the essay instead of seeming redundant they will be welcome as signals to the reader of your essay’s main parts.

Finally, when the topic is an academic one, your first goal is the same: create a list of three.

Topic: Why do so many students fail to complete their college degree?

First, students often...
Second, many students cannot...
Finally, students find that...

Regardless of the reasons you might come up with to finish these sentences, the formula is still the same.

Secret #2: The Thesis Formula

Now with your list of three, you can write the sentence that every essay must have—the thesis, sometimes called the "controlling idea," "overall point," or "position statement." In other words, it is the main idea of the essay that you will try to support, illustrate, or corroborate.

Here’s a simple formula for a thesis: The topic + your position on the topic = your thesis.

Let’s apply this formula to one of our examples:

Topic: Essential characteristics of a good parent Your Position: patience, respect, love Thesis: The essential characteristics of a good parent are patience, respect, and love.

As you see, all we did was combine the topic with our position/opinion on it into a single sentence to produce the thesis: The essential characteristics of a good parent are patience, respect, and love.

In this case, we chose to list three main points as part of our thesis. Sometimes that’s a good strategy. However, you can summarize them if you wish, as in this example:

Topic: Women in combat duty in the military Your Position: They deserve it Thesis: Women deserve to be assigned combat duty in the military.

This type of thesis is shorter and easier to write because it provides the overall position or opinion without forcing you to list the support for it in the thesis, which can get awkward and take away from your strong position statement. The three reasons women deserve to be assigned combat duties--equality, teamwork, courage--will be the subjects of your three body paragraphs and do not need to be mentioned until the body paragraph in which they appear.

Secret #3: The 1-3-1 Outline

With your thesis and list of three main points, you can quickly draw a basic outline of the paragraphs of your essay. You’ll then see why this is often called the 1-3-1 essay.

Supporting Evidence for Claim 1
Supporting Evidence for Claim 2
Supporting Evidence for Claim 3

The five-paragraph essay consists of one introduction paragraph (with the thesis at its end), three body paragraphs (each beginning with one of three main points) and one last paragraph—the conclusion. 1-3-1.

Once you have this outline, you have the basic template for most academic writing. Most of all, you have an organized way to approach virtually any topic you are assigned.

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The Five Paragraph Essay: Developing and Organizing Your Ideas

Introduction.

Your introduction should entice your reader to read on, as well as prepare them to follow your discussion or argument by providing necessary, relevant, or helpful context, background, and/or information about your subject. This can include: names, dates, places, and key terms.

Your thesis should first present a clear statement of your argument or main idea about your subject, and second, introduce the reasoning, examples, information, anecdotes, and/or sources you will use to support or illustrate your argument.

I believe _____ (OR _____ is true)

Body Paragraphs

Each of the three body paragraphs of your essay should include a topic sentence or sentences that clearly signal to the reader which of your “because” statements you are going to address. Next, the paragraph should present in detail the reasoning, anecdotes, examples, facts, statistics, or sources , in other words, the evidence that has led you to your statement. Remember to present your body paragraphs in a logical order.

Topic sentence for body paragraph #1 __________

Supporting points __________

Topic sentence for body paragraph #2 __________

Topic sentence for body paragraph #3 __________

Your conclusion should not only remind the reader of your topic, your thesis, and your evidence, but also should ask the reader to think more deeply about your subject by addressing its implications or broader significance. If you’re stuck, ask yourself: Why should someone care about my subject? What would be different if not for my subject? What is the influence of my subject in history? What does my subject mean for the future? How does my subject relate to everyday life? How does my subject fit into a larger discussion? What lessons can be learned from my subject?

Structuring the Five-Paragraph Essay: Examples of Five-Paragraph Essays

Examples of Five-Paragraph Essays

Grammar Tips

Grammar Bytes

This grammar review site includes detailed terms, interactive exercises, handouts, PowerPoints, daily Twitter practice, videos, teacher resources, and more!

Sample of a Persuasive / Argumentative Five-Paragraph Essay

A cat is a man's best friend.

This model essay is a good example of an Argumentative (or Persuasive) Essay.

A Cat is a A Man's Best Friend Compare & Contrast / Argument (Persuasive) Essay

SAMPLE PROCESS ESSAY

Sample Process Essay with NOTES
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Master the art of crafting a 5-paragraph essay – your ultimate guide to writing excellence.

Writing a 5 paragraph essay may seem like a daunting task, but with the right approach, it can be a manageable and even enjoyable endeavor. Whether you’re a student working on an assignment or someone looking to improve your writing skills, this guide will provide you with the essential steps and tips to create a successful 5 paragraph essay.

Structure : The key to a well-organized 5 paragraph essay is a clear and coherent structure. Begin with an introduction that grabs the reader’s attention and states your thesis. Follow this with three body paragraphs that each focus on a different aspect of your argument or topic. Finally, conclude with a summary of your main points in the conclusion.

Content : Each body paragraph should have a topic sentence that introduces the main idea, supporting sentences that provide evidence or examples, and a concluding sentence that ties everything together. Make sure to use transitions to smoothly connect your ideas and create a cohesive essay.

The Ultimate Guide: Crafting A 5 Paragraph Essay

When it comes to writing a 5 paragraph essay, there are certain steps that you need to follow in order to create a well-structured and cohesive piece of writing. This ultimate guide will walk you through the process of crafting a compelling essay that will impress your readers and clearly communicate your ideas.

The first step in crafting a 5 paragraph essay is to choose a topic that you are passionate about and that is relevant to your assignment or prompt. Once you have selected a topic, you will need to develop a strong thesis statement that clearly states your main argument or point of view.

After you have your thesis statement, you can begin outlining your essay using the traditional 5 paragraph structure. This includes an introduction, three body paragraphs (each with a unique supporting point), and a conclusion. Each paragraph should flow logically from one to the next, with clear transitions and evidence supporting your main thesis.

As you write your essay, be sure to use clear and concise language, avoiding unnecessary jargon or complex sentences. Remember to support your arguments with evidence and examples, and be sure to cite any sources that you use to back up your points.

Finally, once you have completed your essay, take the time to revise and edit your work. Check for spelling and grammatical errors, as well as overall organization and clarity. It can also be helpful to have a peer or mentor review your essay to provide feedback and suggestions for improvement.

By following these steps and using this ultimate guide, you can craft a strong and effective 5 paragraph essay that will showcase your writing skills and clearly communicate your ideas to your audience.

Understanding the Essay Structure

Before you start writing your 5 paragraph essay, it’s essential to understand the basic structure that it follows. The essay is typically divided into five paragraphs, each serving a specific purpose to make your argument or narrative clear and compelling.

The first paragraph is the introduction, where you introduce your topic and present your thesis statement. This sets the stage for the entire essay and should grab the reader’s attention.

The next three paragraphs make up the body of the essay, where you present your main points or arguments. Each paragraph should focus on a single point with supporting evidence or examples to back it up.

The final paragraph is the conclusion, where you summarize your main points and restate your thesis. This is your last chance to leave a lasting impression on the reader and drive home your argument.

Understanding this structure will help you stay organized and focused as you write your 5 paragraph essay, ensuring that your message comes across clearly and effectively.

Choosing a Compelling Topic

One of the most important aspects of writing a 5 paragraph essay is selecting a compelling topic. Your topic should be interesting, relevant, and engaging to both you as the writer and your audience. When choosing a topic, consider your own interests and passions, as well as current events and issues that are of importance. A good topic will grab the reader’s attention and make them want to read more.

Gathering Solid Evidence and Examples

When writing a 5 paragraph essay, it’s essential to support your arguments and claims with solid evidence and examples. This not only strengthens your thesis but also demonstrates a deep understanding of the topic. Here are some tips to gather reliable evidence:

1. Conduct thorough research: Start by researching your topic using reputable sources such as academic journals, books, and scholarly articles. Make sure to take notes and record relevant information that supports your argument.

2. Use real-life examples: Incorporating real-life examples can make your essay more engaging and relatable to the reader. Look for case studies, historical events, or personal experiences to illustrate your points.

3. Quote experts: If possible, include quotes from experts in the field to add credibility to your arguments. Be sure to cite your sources accurately to avoid plagiarism.

4. Statistical data: Numbers and statistics can also strengthen your essay by providing concrete evidence to support your claims. Use data from reliable sources to back up your arguments.

By gathering solid evidence and examples, you can make your 5 paragraph essay more persuasive and convincing to your audience.

Developing a Strong Thesis Statement

One of the most crucial elements of a well-written 5 paragraph essay is a strong thesis statement. Your thesis statement serves as the main idea or argument that you will be addressing in the essay. It should be concise, clear, and specific, providing a roadmap for the reader to understand what your essay will be about.

To develop a strong thesis statement:

Identify the topic: Start by clearly identifying what your essay will be about. What is the main subject or issue that you will be discussing?
Formulate your argument: Once you have identified the topic, think about your stance or perspective on the issue. What is the main point you want to make?
Make it specific: Avoid vague or general statements. Your thesis should be specific and clearly define the scope of your essay.
Include a roadmap: Give a preview of the main points or arguments that will support your thesis statement throughout the essay.

Remember, your thesis statement will guide your writing and help keep your essay focused and organized. Take the time to craft a strong thesis statement before diving into writing the rest of your essay.

Writing Informative Body Paragraphs

Body paragraphs in a 5 paragraph essay play a crucial role in supporting the thesis statement and providing detailed information related to the topic. Each body paragraph should focus on a single point and provide evidence or examples to support that point.

When writing informative body paragraphs, it’s important to follow a clear structure. Start each paragraph with a topic sentence that introduces the main idea of the paragraph. Then, provide supporting details or evidence to explain and elaborate on that main idea. Finally, conclude the paragraph by tying the information back to the thesis statement.

Start with a topic sentence that introduces the main idea of the paragraph.
Provide supporting details or evidence to support the main idea.
Conclude the paragraph by connecting the information back to the thesis statement.

Remember to use transition words and phrases to connect your ideas and create a smooth flow between paragraphs. This will help readers follow your argument and understand the connections between different points in your essay.

Concluding with Impact and Style

As you reach the conclusion of your 5 paragraph essay, it’s important to leave a lasting impression on your readers. The conclusion should summarize your main points and restate your thesis statement in a clear and concise manner. You can also offer some final thoughts or reflections on the topic you’ve discussed.

One strategy for a powerful conclusion is to end with a thought-provoking statement or a call to action that encourages your readers to think more deeply about the subject. This can leave a lasting impact and prompt further discussion or research on the topic.

Remember to avoid introducing new information in your conclusion. It should serve to wrap up your essay and leave your readers with a sense of closure.

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How to Annotate

Looking over the shoulder of someone writing on a notepad

Where to Make Notes

First, determine how you will annotate the text you are about to read.

If it is a printed article, you may be able to just write in the margins. A colored pen might make it easier to see than black or even blue.

If it is an article posted on the web, you could also you Diigo , which is a highlighting and annotating tool that you can use on the website and even share your notes with your instructor. Other note-taking plug-ins for web browsers might serve a similar function.

If it is a textbook that you do not own (or wish to sell back), use post it notes to annotate in the margins.

You can also use a notebook to keep written commentary as you read in any platform, digital or print. If you do this, be sure to leave enough information about the specific text you’re responding to that you can find it later if you need to. (Make notes about page number, which paragraph it is, or even short quotes to help you locate the passage again.)

What Notes to Make

Now you will annotate the document by adding your own words, phrases, and summaries to the written text. For the following examples, the article “ Guinea Worm Facts ” was used.

Scan the document you are annotating. Some obvious clues will be apparent before you read it, such as titles or headers for sections. Read the first paragraph. Somewhere in the first (or possibly the second) paragraph should be a BIG IDEA about what the article is going to be about. In the margins, near the top, write down the big idea of the article in your own words. This shouldn’t be more than a phrase or a sentence. This big idea is likely the article’s thesis.
Underline topic sentences or phrases that express the main idea for that paragraph or section. You should never underline more than 5 words, though for large paragraphs or blocks of text, you can use brackets. (Underlining long stretches gets messy, and makes it hard to review the text later.) Write in the margin next to what you’ve underlined a summary of the paragraph or the idea being expressed.

Two circled textboxes. Left reads "Traditional removal of a Guinea worm consists of winding the worm -- up to 3 feet (1 meter) long -- around a small stick and manually extracting it..." Right reads "The best way to stop Guinea worm disease is to prevent people from entering sources of drinking water with an active infection..." A blue arrow moves from left to right, with blue text reading "Better to prevent than treat later!"

“Depending on the outcome of the assessment, the commission recommends to WHO which formerly endemic countries should be declared free of transmission, i.e., certified as free of the disease.” –> ?? What does this mean? Who is WHO?
“Guinea worm disease incapacitates victims for extended periods of time making them unable to work or grow enough food to feed their families or attend school.” –> My dad was sick for a while and couldn’t work. This was hard on our family.
“Guinea worm disease is set to become the second human disease in history, after smallpox, to be eradicated.” –> Eradicated = to put an end to, destroy

To summarize how you will annotate text:

1. Identify the BIG IDEA 2. Underline topic sentences or main ideas 3. Connect ideas with arrows 4. Ask questions 5. Add personal notes 6. Define technical words

Like many skills, annotating takes practice. Remember that the main goal for doing this is to give you a strategy for reading text that may be more complicated and technical than what you are used to.

Revision and Adaptation. Provided by : Lumen Learning. License : CC BY-NC: Attribution-NonCommercial
How to Annotate Text. Provided by : Biology Corner. Located at : https://biologycorner.com/worksheets/annotate.html . License : CC BY-NC: Attribution-NonCommercial
Image of taking notes. Authored by : Security & Defence Agenda. Located at : https://flic.kr/p/8NunXe . License : CC BY: Attribution
Table of Contents

Instructor Resources (available upon sign-in)

Overview of Instructor Resources
Quiz Survey

Reading: Types of Reading Material

Introduction to Reading
Outcome: Types of Reading Material
Characteristics of Texts, Part 1
Characteristics of Texts, Part 2
Characteristics of Texts, Part 3
Characteristics of Texts, Conclusion
Self Check: Types of Writing

Reading: Reading Strategies

Outcome: Reading Strategies
The Rhetorical Situation
Academic Reading Strategies
Self Check: Reading Strategies

Reading: Specialized Reading Strategies

Outcome: Specialized Reading Strategies
Online Reading Comprehension
How to Read Effectively in Math
How to Read Effectively in the Social Sciences
How to Read Effectively in the Sciences
5 Step Approach for Reading Charts and Graphs
Self Check: Specialized Reading Strategies

Reading: Vocabulary

Outcome: Vocabulary
Strategies to Improve Your Vocabulary
Using Context Clues
The Relationship Between Reading and Vocabulary
Self Check: Vocabulary

Reading: Thesis

Outcome: Thesis
Locating and Evaluating Thesis Statements
The Organizational Statement
Self Check: Thesis

Reading: Supporting Claims

Outcome: Supporting Claims
Types of Support
Supporting Claims
Self Check: Supporting Claims

Reading: Logic and Structure

Outcome: Logic and Structure
Rhetorical Modes
Inductive and Deductive Reasoning
Diagramming and Evaluating Arguments
Logical Fallacies
Evaluating Appeals to Ethos, Logos, and Pathos
Self Check: Logic and Structure

Reading: Summary Skills

Outcome: Summary Skills
Paraphrasing
Quote Bombs
Summary Writing
Self Check: Summary Skills
Conclusion to Reading

Writing Process: Topic Selection

Introduction to Writing Process
Outcome: Topic Selection
Starting a Paper
Choosing and Developing Topics
Back to the Future of Topics
Developing Your Topic
Self Check: Topic Selection

Writing Process: Prewriting

Outcome: Prewriting
Prewriting Strategies for Diverse Learners
Rhetorical Context
Working Thesis Statements
Self Check: Prewriting

Writing Process: Finding Evidence

Outcome: Finding Evidence
Using Personal Examples
Performing Background Research
Listening to Sources, Talking to Sources
Self Check: Finding Evidence

Writing Process: Organizing

Outcome: Organizing
Moving Beyond the Five-Paragraph Theme
Introduction to Argument
The Three-Story Thesis
Organically Structured Arguments
Logic and Structure
The Perfect Paragraph
Introductions and Conclusions
Self Check: Organizing

Writing Process: Drafting

Outcome: Drafting
From Outlining to Drafting
Flash Drafts
Self Check: Drafting

Writing Process: Revising

Outcome: Revising
Seeking Input from Others
Responding to Input from Others
The Art of Re-Seeing
Higher Order Concerns
Self Check: Revising

Writing Process: Proofreading

Outcome: Proofreading
Lower Order Concerns
Proofreading Advice
"Correctness" in Writing
The Importance of Spelling
Punctuation Concerns
Self Check: Proofreading
Conclusion to Writing Process

Research Process: Finding Sources

Introduction to Research Process
Outcome: Finding Sources
The Research Process
Finding Sources
What are Scholarly Articles?
Finding Scholarly Articles and Using Databases
Database Searching
Advanced Search Strategies
Preliminary Research Strategies
Reading and Using Scholarly Sources
Self Check: Finding Sources

Research Process: Source Analysis

Outcome: Source Analysis
Evaluating Sources
CRAAP Analysis
Evaluating Websites
Synthesizing Sources
Self Check: Source Analysis

Research Process: Writing Ethically

Outcome: Writing Ethically
Academic Integrity
Defining Plagiarism
Avoiding Plagiarism
Using Sources in Your Writing
Self Check: Writing Ethically

Research Process: MLA Documentation

Introduction to MLA Documentation
Outcome: MLA Documentation
MLA Document Formatting
MLA Works Cited
Creating MLA Citations
MLA In-Text Citations
Self Check: MLA Documentation
Conclusion to Research Process

Grammar: Nouns and Pronouns

Introduction to Grammar
Outcome: Nouns and Pronouns
Pronoun Cases and Types
Pronoun Antecedents
Try It: Nouns and Pronouns
Self Check: Nouns and Pronouns

Grammar: Verbs

Outcome: Verbs
Verb Tenses and Agreement
Non-Finite Verbs
Complex Verb Tenses
Try It: Verbs
Self Check: Verbs

Grammar: Other Parts of Speech

Outcome: Other Parts of Speech
Comparing Adjectives and Adverbs
Adjectives and Adverbs
Conjunctions
Prepositions
Try It: Other Parts of Speech
Self Check: Other Parts of Speech

Grammar: Punctuation

Outcome: Punctuation
End Punctuation
Hyphens and Dashes
Apostrophes and Quotation Marks
Brackets, Parentheses, and Ellipses
Semicolons and Colons
Try It: Punctuation
Self Check: Punctuation

Grammar: Sentence Structure

Outcome: Sentence Structure
Parts of a Sentence
Common Sentence Structures
Run-on Sentences
Sentence Fragments
Parallel Structure
Try It: Sentence Structure
Self Check: Sentence Structure

Grammar: Voice

Outcome: Voice
Active and Passive Voice
Using the Passive Voice
Conclusion to Grammar
Try It: Voice
Self Check: Voice

Success Skills

Introduction to Success Skills
Habits for Success
Critical Thinking
Time Management
Writing in College
Computer-Based Writing
Conclusion to Success Skills

How to Write a 5 Paragraph Essay: Outline, Example

‍ Imagine this:

You have to write your first essay, but you’re not sure where to start. You have a hundred questions , and more are coming to you every minute, but you’re afraid to ask the teacher for help.

What’s the difference between an argumentative essay and an informative essay? How will I be graded? What must I include? The list goes on. Well, first, take a breath. Before you tackle different essay varieties, grading rubrics, and the bullet points of exactly what should go in your essay, you need to make sure you understand structure. The 5 paragraph essay format is a classic example of an essay, and once you know how to create a 5 paragraph essay outline, you can write any essay that’s assigned to you.

Perfecting the art of essay writing is not only essential for acing your assignments but also for securing financial support as you transition from high school to college. A well-structured essay, such as the 5-paragraph essay, showcases your writing prowess and your ability to articulate ideas in a coherent and compelling manner. As you master the formula of a 5-paragraph essay, consider leveraging these skills to apply for scholarships. Numerous scholarships are specifically geared towards high school seniors, offering a financial launching pad for your college adventure. The skills you hone while crafting precise and impactful essays will serve you well as you embark on the exciting journey of drafting scholarship essays, each a stepping stone toward your higher education and a bright future. If you need additional support or guidance, don't hesitate to explore the " pay for an essay " options.

The 5 Paragraph Essay Outline

Don’t know the 5 paragraph essay structure? It’s pretty simple. Here’s the basic outline you should follow:

Now let’s discuss what should go in each paragraph. The following 5 paragraph essay template by our service should tell you exactly what you need to do to complete your assignment.

Paragraph 1: Introduction

In the introduction, you should provide background information on your topic. Usually, this information should be factual, especially for a history paper, but you can be creative in how you present it. The key is that you want to intrigue the reader. You want to draw the reader into your topic by creating a natural curiosity about it.

Somewhere in the middle of your introduction, you need to present the 3 main points you will discuss in your 5 paragraph essay . These 3 points are crucial for the basic essay, as you need to ensure you have enough to talk about, and it’s best to introduce them in the first paragraph. However, keep in mind that as your essays get longer, you may need to use more than 3 main points. That’s not something you should worry about now, though.

In any essay, your introductory paragraph should end with a strong thesis statement that tells readers exactly what you aim to prove. If the essay is meant only to inform, the thesis statement should clarify to readers exactly what you’re going to inform them of.

Paragraph 2: First Main Point

The second paragraph is where you begin laying out the 3 main points that you promised in your introduction. In this paragraph, the first sentence should transition from the previous paragraph to the current one. It should also clearly introduce the topic, your first main point.

The sentences that follow should provide examples and support, or evidence, for your topic . Readers should see that every example and every piece of support you provide (e.g., quotes, graphs, paraphrased information) is connected to your topic. They should never be left wondering why you included something.

Paragraph 3: Second Main Point

The third paragraph of your 5 paragraph essay is where you lay out the second main point. As the previous paragraph, it should begin with a transition and a description of the topic you’re about to discuss. Any examples or support you provide should be related to the topic at hand.

Paragraph 4: Third Main Point

The fourth paragraph is where you lay out the third main point that you promised in your essay’s introduction. Like any paragraph, it should have a transition and a topic sentence, and any examples or support should be related and interesting.

Paragraph 5: Conclusion

The last paragraph of a 5 paragraph essay — or any length should be a conclusion . It should not present new information, but it should always wrap up your discussion. One way to conclude is to summarize your 3 main points and then leave the reader with some key takeaways or a final thought about your thesis that drives your essay home.

However, your essay should not end with a cliffhanger. Remember that idea of cohesion? When the reader finishes your essay, he or she should feel like the information or argument is complete and fascinating.

Creating the 5 Paragraph Essay Graphic Organizer

Now that you understand the 5 paragraph essay format, it’s time to begin planning and writing your essay. To do that, custom writing professionals suggest using a graphic organizer. It can be a simple outline in bullet points, or it can be more visual in nature.

For example, you can create a mind map with your thesis idea — or even the whole thesis sentence — in the middle. Circle your thesis. From there, you can draw lines from the thesis outward and create new bubbles for your mind map, perhaps showing the main points you intend to discuss. Your mind map can include any information that’s helpful, and you may find that you want to expand on each main point with new bubbles.

PRODUCTION: Create a simple drawing of a mind map. Put the word “Thesis” in the middle (circled), and then put the words “Point 1,” “Point 2,” and “Point 3” around it. Draw circles around those words, and connect them to “Thesis” using lines. See example below.

Don’t spend too much time creating a graphic organizer, though. At some point, you need to start writing your 5 paragraph essay! Then the real fun begins.

The 5 Paragraph Essay Rubric

If you’re wondering how your essay will be graded, you’re not alone. While the exact rubric your teacher uses will vary, here’s a basic one that may help you see what’s expected in your essay.

Grade A: Excellent

Both introduction and thesis are strong.
Details and examples are strong and well organized.
The conclusion is strong enough.
Grammar is correct.

Grade B: Good

Has some spelling and grammar errors.

Grade C: Fair

The introduction is good, but the thesis is weak.
Examples used are weak.
The conclusion is weak.
Has major spelling and grammar errors.

Grade D: Poor

Introduction and thesis are weak.
Details and examples are weak and somewhat unorganized.
Details or examples are few.
Does not have a conclusion.
Has serious spelling and grammar errors.

Grade F: Unsatisfactory

Does not contain a thesis, and introduction is weak.
Details and examples are weak and have no clear organization, or there are none at all.

In some cases, your teacher may give you a rubric before you start your essay. If so, make sure you read it carefully and don’t be afraid to ask questions if you don’t understand something. The rubric should tell you exactly what the teacher is looking for, whether it’s a 5 paragraph essay or something much longer. To succeed with your task, please find some essay writing tips .

5 Paragraph Essay Sample

Below you can find free 5 Paragraph essay sample called " The Impact of Technology on Education ".

"In today's rapidly advancing world, technology has become an integral part of our daily lives, revolutionizing various sectors, including education. Its influence on the way we learn, teach, and interact with educational materials is undeniable. This essay examines the significant impact of technology on education, highlighting its benefits and exploring real-life examples that illustrate its transformative power.

One of the primary benefits of technology in education is the enhanced accessibility to information. The internet has brought a wealth of knowledge right to our fingertips. Students can now access a vast array of educational resources, such as e-books, online articles, and interactive learning platforms. For instance, platforms like Khan Academy provide video tutorials and practice exercises on various subjects, enabling students to learn at their own pace and revisit concepts as needed. Furthermore, online forums and discussion boards foster collaborative learning, connecting students and educators from around the globe to share ideas and insights.

Another key advantage of technology in education is its ability to promote active and personalized learning. With the advent of educational software and applications, students can engage in interactive activities that cater to their individual needs and learning styles. For example, adaptive learning platforms like Duolingo tailor language lessons based on the learner's proficiency level and progress. This personalized approach helps students stay motivated and enhances their comprehension and retention of the material. Additionally, digital simulations and virtual reality tools provide immersive learning experiences, allowing students to explore complex concepts in a hands-on and engaging manner.

Furthermore, technology has revolutionized the way educators deliver instruction and assess students' progress. Online learning management systems, such as Moodle and Canvas, enable teachers to create and share course materials, assign tasks, and provide timely feedback. These platforms streamline administrative tasks, giving educators more time to focus on designing innovative lessons and individualized support for students. Moreover, digital assessment tools offer immediate feedback, enabling students to track their progress and identify areas for improvement. Platforms like Kahoot! and Quizlet make learning enjoyable by incorporating gamification elements, making the assessment process interactive and engaging.

In conclusion, technology has had a profound impact on education, transforming the way we learn and teach. The accessibility to vast amounts of information, the promotion of active and personalized learning, and the innovative methods of instruction and assessment are just a few examples of the positive effects of technology in education. However, it is important to ensure that technology is used as a tool to enhance learning rather than replace traditional teaching methods. As we continue to embrace technological advancements, it is crucial to strike a balance between leveraging its benefits and maintaining the human element in education. By doing so, we can harness the full potential of technology to create a future where education is accessible, engaging, and empowering for all learners."

Final Thoughts on the 5 Paragraph Essay

Once you’ve mastered the format of the 5 paragraph essay, you can write a paper at any length imaginable. Remember that it’s helpful to create an outline or graphic organizer to organize your ideas before you start writing , especially for a longer essay. If you have a rubric ahead of time, you’ll know exactly what you need to watch out for as you edit and polish your paper.

With the above information at your disposal and a rubric in-hand, you should have no excuses for a poor grade. Just be mindful of how much time you have to work, and break the writing into small chunks if you need to. Always start early to get the best grade possible.

Still not sure how to write a good 5 paragraph essay? You can order a high-quality custom essay from us or just take advantage of our top-notch paper editing and rewriting services. So in other words, we’ll write your essay from scratch, write a new draft, or just clean up the draft you’ve already written. Whatever you need to finish your writing and get an excellent grade, you can buy it right here. Check out our reviews if you want to see what some happy customers have said.

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Narrative Essay

How to write an annotation.

One of the greatest challenges students face is adjusting to college reading expectations. Unlike high school, students in college are expected to read more “academic” type of materials in less time and usually recall the information as soon as the next class.

The problem is many students spend hours reading and have no idea what they just read. Their eyes are moving across the page, but their mind is somewhere else. The end result is wasted time, energy, and frustration…and having to read the text again.

Although students are taught how to read at an early age, many are not taught how to actively engage with written text or other media. Annotation is a tool to help you learn how to actively engage with a text or other media.

View the following video about how to annotate a text.

Annotating a text or other media (e.g. a video, image, etc.) is as much about you as it is the text you are annotating. What are YOUR responses to the author’s writing, claims and ideas? What are YOU thinking as you consider the work? Ask questions, challenge, think!

When we annotate an author’s work, our minds should encounter the mind of the author, openly and freely. If you met the author at a party, what would you like to tell to them; what would you like to ask them? What do you think they would say in response to your comments? You can be critical of the text, but you do not have to be. If you are annotating properly, you often begin to get ideas that have little or even nothing to do with the topic you are annotating. That’s fine: it’s all about generating insights and ideas of your own. Any good insight is worth keeping because it may make for a good essay or research paper later on.

The Secret is in the Pen

One of the ways proficient readers read is with a pen in hand. They know their purpose is to keep their attention on the material by:

Predicting what the material will be about
Questioning the material to further understanding
Determining what’s important
Identifying key vocabulary
Summarizing the material in their own words, and
Monitoring their comprehension (understanding) during and after engaging with the material

The same applies for mindfully viewing a film, video, image or other media.

Annotating a Text

Review the video, “How to Annotate a Text.” Pay attention to both how to make annotations and what types of thoughts and ideas may be part of your annotations as you actively read a written text.

Example Assignment Format: Annotating a Written Text

For the annotation of reading assignments in this class, you will cite and comment on a minimum of FIVE (5) phrases, sentences or passages from notes you take on the selected readings.

Here is an example format for an assignment to annotate a written text:


1		Add your comments here
2		Add your comments here
3		Add your comments here
4		Add your comments here
5		Add your comments here

Example Assignment Format: Annotating Media

In addition to annotating written text, at times you will have assignments to annotate media (e.g., videos, images or other media). For the annotation of media assignments in this class, you will cite and comment on a minimum of THREE (3) statements, facts, examples, research or any combination of those from the notes you take about selected media.

Here is an example format for an assignment to annotate media:


1	Passage Description	Add your comments here
2	Passage Description	Add your comments here
3	Passage Description	Add your comments here

Provided by : Lumen Learning. Located at : http://www.lumenlearning.com/ . License : CC BY: Attribution
Authored by : Paul Powell . Provided by : Central Community College. Project : Kaleidoscope Open Course Initiative. License : CC BY: Attribution
Authored by : Elisabeth Ellington and Ronda Dorsey Neugebauer . Provided by : Chadron State College. Project : Kaleidoscope Open Course Initiative. License : CC BY: Attribution
Annotating a Text. Authored by : HaynesEnglish. Located at : http://youtu.be/pf9CTJj9dCM . License : All Rights Reserved . License Terms : Standard YouTube license
How to Annotate a Text. Authored by : Kthiebau90. Located at : http://youtu.be/IzrWOj0gWHU . License : All Rights Reserved . License Terms : Standard YouTube License

Annotating Texts

What is annotation.

Annotation can be:

A systematic summary of the text that you create within the document
A key tool for close reading that helps you uncover patterns, notice important words, and identify main points
An active learning strategy that improves comprehension and retention of information

Why annotate?

Isolate and organize important material
Identify key concepts
Monitor your learning as you read
Make exam prep effective and streamlined
Can be more efficient than creating a separate set of reading notes

How do you annotate?

Summarize key points in your own words .

Use headers and words in bold to guide you
Look for main ideas, arguments, and points of evidence
Notice how the text organizes itself. Chronological order? Idea trees? Etc.

Circle key concepts and phrases

What words would it be helpful to look-up at the end?
What terms show up in lecture? When are different words used for similar concepts? Why?

Write brief comments and questions in the margins

Be as specific or broad as you would like—use these questions to activate your thinking about the content
See our handout on reading comprehension tips for some examples

Use abbreviations and symbols

Try ? when you have a question or something you need to explore further
Try ! When something is interesting, a connection, or otherwise worthy of note
Try * For anything that you might use as an example or evidence when you use this information.
Ask yourself what other system of symbols would make sense to you.

Highlight/underline

Highlight or underline, but mindfully. Check out our resource on strategic highlighting for tips on when and how to highlight.

Use comment and highlight features built into pdfs, online/digital textbooks, or other apps and browser add-ons

Are you using a pdf? Explore its highlight, edit, and comment functions to support your annotations
Some browsers have add-ons or extensions that allow you to annotate web pages or web-based documents
Does your digital or online textbook come with an annotation feature?
Can your digital text be imported into a note-taking tool like OneNote, EverNote, or Google Keep? If so, you might be able to annotate texts in those apps

What are the most important takeaways?

Annotation is about increasing your engagement with a text
Increased engagement, where you think about and process the material then expand on your learning, is how you achieve mastery in a subject
As you annotate a text, ask yourself: how would I explain this to a friend?
Put things in your own words and draw connections to what you know and wonder

The table below demonstrates this process using a geography textbook excerpt (Press 2004):

A chart featuring a passage from a text in the left column and then columns that illustrate annotations that include too much writing, not enough writing, and a good balance of writing.

A common concern about annotating texts: It takes time!

Yes, it can, but that time isn’t lost—it’s invested.

Spending the time to annotate on the front end does two important things:

It saves you time later when you’re studying. Your annotated notes will help speed up exam prep, because you can review critical concepts quickly and efficiently.
It increases the likelihood that you will retain the information after the course is completed. This is especially important when you are supplying the building blocks of your mind and future career.

One last tip: Try separating the reading and annotating processes! Quickly read through a section of the text first, then go back and annotate.

Works consulted:

Nist, S., & Holschuh, J. (2000). Active learning: strategies for college success. Boston: Allyn and Bacon. 202-218.

Simpson, M., & Nist, S. (1990). Textbook annotation: An effective and efficient study strategy for college students. Journal of Reading, 34: 122-129.

Press, F. (2004). Understanding earth (4th ed). New York: W.H. Freeman. 208-210.

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How to Annotate Texts

Use the links below to jump directly to any section of this guide:

Annotation Fundamentals

How to start annotating , how to annotate digital texts, how to annotate a textbook, how to annotate a scholarly article or book, how to annotate literature, how to annotate images, videos, and performances, additional resources for teachers.

Writing in your books can make you smarter. Or, at least (according to education experts), annotation–an umbrella term for underlining, highlighting, circling, and, most importantly, leaving comments in the margins–helps students to remember and comprehend what they read. Annotation is like a conversation between reader and text. Proper annotation allows students to record their own opinions and reactions, which can serve as the inspiration for research questions and theses. So, whether you're reading a novel, poem, news article, or science textbook, taking notes along the way can give you an advantage in preparing for tests or writing essays. This guide contains resources that explain the benefits of annotating texts, provide annotation tools, and suggest approaches for diverse kinds of texts; the last section includes lesson plans and exercises for teachers.

Why annotate? As the resources below explain, annotation allows students to emphasize connections to material covered elsewhere in the text (or in other texts), material covered previously in the course, or material covered in lectures and discussion. In other words, proper annotation is an organizing tool and a time saver. The links in this section will introduce you to the theory, practice, and purpose of annotation.

How to Mark a Book, by Mortimer Adler

This famous, charming essay lays out the case for marking up books, and provides practical suggestions at the end including underlining, highlighting, circling key words, using vertical lines to mark shifts in tone/subject, numbering points in an argument, and keeping track of questions that occur to you as you read.

How Annotation Reshapes Student Thinking (TeacherHUB)

In this article, a high school teacher discusses the importance of annotation and how annotation encourages more effective critical thinking.

The Future of Annotation (Journal of Business and Technical Communication)

This scholarly article summarizes research on the benefits of annotation in the classroom and in business. It also discusses how technology and digital texts might affect the future of annotation.

Annotating to Deepen Understanding (Texas Education Agency)

This website provides another introduction to annotation (designed for 11th graders). It includes a helpful section that teaches students how to annotate reading comprehension passages on tests.

Once you understand what annotation is, you're ready to begin. But what tools do you need? How do you prepare? The resources linked in this section list strategies and techniques you can use to start annotating.

What is Annotating? (Charleston County School District)

This resource gives an overview of annotation styles, including useful shorthands and symbols. This is a good place for a student who has never annotated before to begin.

How to Annotate Text While Reading (YouTube)

This video tutorial (appropriate for grades 6–10) explains the basic ins and outs of annotation and gives examples of the type of information students should be looking for.

Annotation Practices: Reading a Play-text vs. Watching Film (U Calgary)

This blog post, written by a student, talks about how the goals and approaches of annotation might change depending on the type of text or performance being observed.

Annotating Texts with Sticky Notes (Lyndhurst Schools)

Sometimes students are asked to annotate books they don't own or can't write in for other reasons. This resource provides some strategies for using sticky notes instead.

Teaching Students to Close Read...When You Can't Mark the Text (Performing in Education)

Here, a sixth grade teacher demonstrates the strategies she uses for getting her students to annotate with sticky notes. This resource includes a link to the teacher's free Annotation Bookmark (via Teachers Pay Teachers).

Digital texts can present a special challenge when it comes to annotation; emerging research suggests that many students struggle to critically read and retain information from digital texts. However, proper annotation can solve the problem. This section contains links to the most highly-utilized platforms for electronic annotation.

Evernote is one of the two big players in the "digital annotation apps" game. In addition to allowing users to annotate digital documents, the service (for a fee) allows users to group multiple formats (PDF, webpages, scanned hand-written notes) into separate notebooks, create voice recordings, and sync across all sorts of devices.

OneNote is Evernote's main competitor. Reviews suggest that OneNote allows for more freedom for digital note-taking than Evernote, but that it is slightly more awkward to import and annotate a PDF, especially on certain platforms. However, OneNote's free version is slightly more feature-filled, and OneNote allows you to link your notes to time stamps on an audio recording.

Diigo is a basic browser extension that allows a user to annotate webpages. Diigo also offers a Screenshot app that allows for direct saving to Google Drive.

While the creators of Hypothesis like to focus on their app's social dimension, students are more likely to be interested in the private highlighting and annotating functions of this program.

Foxit PDF Reader

Foxit is one of the leading PDF readers. Though the full suite must be purchased, Foxit offers a number of annotation and highlighting tools for free.

Nitro PDF Reader

This is another well-reviewed, free PDF reader that includes annotation and highlighting. Annotation, text editing, and other tools are included in the free version.

Goodreader is a very popular Mac-only app that includes annotation and editing tools for PDFs, Word documents, Powerpoint, and other formats.

Although textbooks have vocabulary lists, summaries, and other features to emphasize important material, annotation can allow students to process information and discover their own connections. This section links to guides and video tutorials that introduce you to textbook annotation.

Annotating Textbooks (Niagara University)

This PDF provides a basic introduction as well as strategies including focusing on main ideas, working by section or chapter, annotating in your own words, and turning section headings into questions.

A Simple Guide to Text Annotation (Catawba College)

The simple, practical strategies laid out in this step-by-step guide will help students learn how to break down chapters in their textbooks using main ideas, definitions, lists, summaries, and potential test questions.

Annotating (Mercer Community College)

This packet, an excerpt from a literature textbook, provides a short exercise and some examples of how to do textbook annotation, including using shorthand and symbols.

Reading Your Healthcare Textbook: Annotation (Saddleback College)

This powerpoint contains a number of helpful suggestions, especially for students who are new to annotation. It emphasizes limited highlighting, lots of student writing, and using key words to find the most important information in a textbook. Despite the title, it is useful to a student in any discipline.

Annotating a Textbook (Excelsior College OWL)

This video (with included transcript) discusses how to use textbook features like boxes and sidebars to help guide annotation. It's an extremely helpful, detailed discussion of how textbooks are organized.

Because scholarly articles and books have complex arguments and often depend on technical vocabulary, they present particular challenges for an annotating student. The resources in this section help students get to the heart of scholarly texts in order to annotate and, by extension, understand the reading.

Annotating a Text (Hunter College)

This resource is designed for college students and shows how to annotate a scholarly article using highlighting, paraphrase, a descriptive outline, and a two-margin approach. It ends with a sample passage marked up using the strategies provided.

Guide to Annotating the Scholarly Article (ReadWriteThink.org)

This is an effective introduction to annotating scholarly articles across all disciplines. This resource encourages students to break down how the article uses primary and secondary sources and to annotate the types of arguments and persuasive strategies (synthesis, analysis, compare/contrast).

How to Highlight and Annotate Your Research Articles (CHHS Media Center)

This video, developed by a high school media specialist, provides an effective beginner-level introduction to annotating research articles.

How to Read a Scholarly Book (AndrewJacobs.org)

In this essay, a college professor lets readers in on the secrets of scholarly monographs. Though he does not discuss annotation, he explains how to find a scholarly book's thesis, methodology, and often even a brief literature review in the introduction. This is a key place for students to focus when creating annotations.

A 5-step Approach to Reading Scholarly Literature and Taking Notes (Heather Young Leslie)

This resource, written by a professor of anthropology, is an even more comprehensive and detailed guide to reading scholarly literature. Combining the annotation techniques above with the reading strategy here allows students to process scholarly book efficiently.

Annotation is also an important part of close reading works of literature. Annotating helps students recognize symbolism, double meanings, and other literary devices. These resources provide additional guidelines on annotating literature.

AP English Language Annotation Guide (YouTube)

In this ~10 minute video, an AP Language teacher provides tips and suggestions for using annotations to point out rhetorical strategies and other important information.

Annotating Text Lesson (YouTube)

In this video tutorial, an English teacher shows how she uses the white board to guide students through annotation and close reading. This resource uses an in-depth example to model annotation step-by-step.

Close Reading a Text and Avoiding Pitfalls (Purdue OWL)

This resources demonstrates how annotation is a central part of a solid close reading strategy; it also lists common mistakes to avoid in the annotation process.

AP Literature Assignment: Annotating Literature (Mount Notre Dame H.S.)

This brief assignment sheet contains suggestions for what to annotate in a novel, including building connections between parts of the book, among multiple books you are reading/have read, and between the book and your own experience. It also includes samples of quality annotations.

AP Handout: Annotation Guide (Covington Catholic H.S.)

This annotation guide shows how to keep track of symbolism, figurative language, and other devices in a novel using a highlighter, a pencil, and every part of a book (including the front and back covers).

In addition to written resources, it's possible to annotate visual "texts" like theatrical performances, movies, sculptures, and paintings. Taking notes on visual texts allows students to recall details after viewing a resource which, unlike a book, can't be re-read or re-visited ( for example, a play that has finished its run, or an art exhibition that is far away). These resources draw attention to the special questions and techniques that students should use when dealing with visual texts.

How to Take Notes on Videos (U of Southern California)

This resource is a good place to start for a student who has never had to take notes on film before. It briefly outlines three general approaches to note-taking on a film.

How to Analyze a Movie, Step-by-Step (San Diego Film Festival)

This detailed guide provides lots of tips for film criticism and analysis. It contains a list of specific questions to ask with respect to plot, character development, direction, musical score, cinematography, special effects, and more.

How to "Read" a Film (UPenn)

This resource provides an academic perspective on the art of annotating and analyzing a film. Like other resources, it provides students a checklist of things to watch out for as they watch the film.

Art Annotation Guide (Gosford Hill School)

This resource focuses on how to annotate a piece of art with respect to its formal elements like line, tone, mood, and composition. It contains a number of helpful questions and relevant examples.

Photography Annotation (Arts at Trinity)

This resource is designed specifically for photography students. Like some of the other resources on this list, it primarily focuses on formal elements, but also shows students how to integrate the specific technical vocabulary of modern photography. This resource also contains a number of helpful sample annotations.

How to Review a Play (U of Wisconsin)

This resource from the University of Wisconsin Writing Center is designed to help students write a review of a play. It contains suggested questions for students to keep in mind as they watch a given production. This resource helps students think about staging, props, script alterations, and many other key elements of a performance.

This section contains links to lessons plans and exercises suitable for high school and college instructors.

Beyond the Yellow Highlighter: Teaching Annotation Skills to Improve Reading Comprehension (English Journal)

In this journal article, a high school teacher talks about her approach to teaching annotation. This article makes a clear distinction between annotation and mere highlighting.

Lesson Plan for Teaching Annotation, Grades 9–12 (readwritethink.org)

This lesson plan, published by the National Council of Teachers of English, contains four complete lessons that help introduce high school students to annotation.

Teaching Theme Using Close Reading (Performing in Education)

This lesson plan was developed by a middle school teacher, and is aligned to Common Core. The teacher presents her strategies and resources in comprehensive fashion.

Analyzing a Speech Using Annotation (UNC-TV/PBS Learning Media)

This complete lesson plan, which includes a guide for the teacher and relevant handouts for students, will prepare students to analyze both the written and presentation components of a speech. This lesson plan is best for students in 6th–10th grade.

Writing to Learn History: Annotation and Mini-Writes (teachinghistory.org)

This teaching guide, developed for high school History classes, provides handouts and suggested exercises that can help students become more comfortable with annotating historical sources.

Writing About Art (The College Board)

This Prezi presentation is useful to any teacher introducing students to the basics of annotating art. The presentation covers annotating for both formal elements and historical/cultural significance.

Film Study Worksheets (TeachWithMovies.org)

This resource contains links to a general film study worksheet, as well as specific worksheets for novel adaptations, historical films, documentaries, and more. These resources are appropriate for advanced middle school students and some high school students.

Annotation Practice Worksheet (La Guardia Community College)

This worksheet has a sample text and instructions for students to annotate it. It is a useful resource for teachers who want to give their students a chance to practice, but don't have the time to select an appropriate piece of text.

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Research Guides
CECH Library

How to Write an Annotated Bibliography

Writing annotations.

Introduction
New RefWorks
Formatting Citations
Sample Annotated Bibliographies

An annotation is a brief note following each citation listed on an annotated bibliography. The goal is to briefly summarize the source and/or explain why it is important for a topic. They are typically a single concise paragraph, but might be longer if you are summarizing and evaluating.

Annotations can be written in a variety of different ways and it’s important to consider the style you are going to use. Are you simply summarizing the sources, or evaluating them? How does the source influence your understanding of the topic? You can follow any style you want if you are writing for your own personal research process, but consult with your professor if this is an assignment for a class.

Annotation Styles

Combined Informative/Evaluative Style - This style is recommended by the library as it combines all the styles to provide a more complete view of a source. The annotation should explain the value of the source for the overall research topic by providing a summary combined with an analysis of the source.

Aluedse, O. (2006). Bullying in schools: A form of child abuse in schools. Educational Research Quarterly , 30 (1), 37.

The author classifies bullying in schools as a “form of child abuse,” and goes well beyond the notion that schoolyard bullying is “just child’s play.” The article provides an in-depth definition of bullying, and explores the likelihood that school-aged bullies may also experience difficult lives as adults. The author discusses the modern prevalence of bullying in school systems, the effects of bullying, intervention strategies, and provides an extensive list of resources and references.

Statistics included provide an alarming realization that bullying is prevalent not only in the United States, but also worldwide. According to the author, “American schools harbor approximately 2.1 million bullies and 2.7 million victims.” The author references the National Association of School Psychologists and quotes, “Thus, one in seven children is a bully or a target of bullying.” A major point of emphasis centers around what has always been considered a “normal part of growing up” versus the levels of actual abuse reached in today’s society.

The author concludes with a section that addresses intervention strategies for school administrators, teachers, counselors, and school staff. The concept of school staff helping build students’ “social competence” is showcased as a prevalent means of preventing and reducing this growing social menace. Overall, the article is worthwhile for anyone interested in the subject matter, and provides a wealth of resources for researching this topic of growing concern.

(Renfrow & Teuton, 2008)

Informative Style - Similar to an abstract, this style focuses on the summarizing the source. The annotation should identify the hypothesis, results, and conclusions presented by the source.

Plester, B., Wood, C, & Bell, V. (2008). Txt msg n school literacy: Does texting and knowledge of text abbreviations adversely affect children's literacy attainment? Literacy , 42(3), 137-144.

Reports on two studies that investigated the relationship between children's texting behavior, their knowledge of text abbreviations, and their school attainment in written language skills. In Study One, 11 to 12 year-old children reported their texting behavior and translated a standard English sentence into a text message and vice versa. In Study Two, children's performance on writing measures were examined more specifically, spelling proficiency was also assessed, and KS2 Writing scores were obtained. Positive correlations between spelling ability and performance on the translation exercise were found, and group-based comparisons based on the children's writing scores also showed that good writing attainment was associated with greater use of texting abbreviations (textisms), although the direction of this association is not clear. Overall, these findings suggest that children's knowledge of textisms is not associated with poor written language outcomes for children in this age range.

(Beach et al., 2009)

Evaluative Style - This style analyzes and critically evaluates the source. The annotation should comment on the source's the strengths, weaknesses, and how it relates to the overall research topic.

Amott, T. (1993). Caught in the Crisis: Women in the U.S. Economy Today . New York: Monthly Review Press.

A very readable (140 pp) economic analysis and information book which I am currently considering as a required collateral assignment in Economics 201. Among its many strengths is a lucid connection of "The Crisis at Home" with the broader, macroeconomic crisis of the U.S. working class (which various other authors have described as the shrinking middle class or the crisis of de-industrialization).

(Papadantonakis, 1996)

Indicative Style - This style of annotation identifies the main theme and lists the significant topics included in the source. Usually no specific details are given beyond the topic list .

Example:

Gambell, T.J., & Hunter, D. M. (1999). Rethinking gender differences in literacy. Canadian Journal of Education , 24(1) 1-16.

Five explanations are offered for recently assessed gender differences in the literacy achievement of male and female students in Canada and other countries. The explanations revolve around evaluative bias, home socialization, role and societal expectations, male psychology, and equity policy.

(Kerka & Imel, 2004)

Beach, R., Bigelow, M., Dillon, D., Dockter, J., Galda, L., Helman, L., . . . Janssen, T. (2009). Annotated Bibliography of Research in the Teaching of English. Research in the Teaching of English, 44 (2), 210-241. Retrieved from http://www.jstor.org/stable/27784357

Kerka, S., & Imel, S. (2004). Annotated bibliography: Women and literacy. Women's Studies Quarterly, 32 (1), 258-271. Retrieved from http://search.proquest.com/docview/233645656?accountid=2909

Papadantonakis, K. (1996). Selected Annotated Bibliography for Economists and Other Social Scientists. Women's Studies Quarterly, 24 (3/4), 233-238. Retrieved from http://www.jstor.org/stable/40004384

Renfrow, T.G., & Teuton, L.M. (2008). Schoolyard bullying: Peer victimization an annotated bibliography. Community & Junior College Libraries, 14(4), 251-275. doi:10.1080/02763910802336407

<< Previous: Formatting Citations
Next: Sample Annotated Bibliographies >>
Last Updated: Aug 15, 2024 2:49 PM
URL: https://guides.libraries.uc.edu/annotated_bibliography

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PO Box 210033 Cincinnati, Ohio 45221-0033

Phone: 513-556-1424

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How to Annotate

Last Updated: October 31, 2023 Fact Checked

This article was co-authored by Alexander Peterman, MA and by wikiHow staff writer, Hannah Madden . Alexander Peterman is a Private Tutor in Florida. He received his MA in Education from the University of Florida in 2017. There are 9 references cited in this article, which can be found at the bottom of the page. This article has been fact-checked, ensuring the accuracy of any cited facts and confirming the authority of its sources. This article has been viewed 344,685 times.

Slogging through a tough text is hard, and it can be even harder if you aren’t retaining the information. Annotating text is a purposeful note taking system that encourages close reading and literary analysis. When you go back to review a book or article, your annotations should help you find important information and jog your memory about relevant information. Your annotation system can be highly personalized, but you should establish your method before you start to read to make it easier on yourself.

Sample Annotations

Highlighting Important Information

Step 1 Read the assignment carefully to identify priorities.

Clearly annotate the thesis and key parts of the argument in an essay. Underline evidence that you find questionable. This will be useful if you want to argue that the author’s thesis is wrong.
Annotations on works of literature usually identify plot, character, and theme. However, they can also include setting, vocabulary and figurative language.
If you are reading for pleasure, highlight points that you found very interesting and that you might want to go back to. Consider, for example, annotating quotes that you really like and might want to use later. In addition, if you run across a big idea that changes the way you think, highlight it so that you can return to it.

Slow down. Read aloud verbally or in your mind. Don't skim through the text.
You can also underline key terms or put brackets around longer phrases.

In an essay, the thesis is typically in the first paragraph, but not always. It summarizes the main point or idea of the essay.
The theme won't be a sentence. Instead, look for the repetition of certain ideas or significant passages (usually during the climax of the story).

Step 4 Keep writing utensils on you at all times.

Pens aren’t great since you can't erase it if you make a mistake. It may also take away from the sell-back value if this is a textbook.
If you choose to use a pen, consider blue. It will stand out from the black text of the book, but it won't detract from it, like hot pink or purple might.
If you can’t stand to write directly into your book, use Post-It notes instead.

Most e-book readers will allow you to highlight passages. Some will even allow you to use multiple colors when highlighting the text.
If you don't have a highlighter, put brackets around the passage instead. You can do this with a pencil or a colored ballpoint pen (i.e.: pink, purple, blue, red, etc).
If you're a visual learner, you can also artistically annotate important passages by drawing them and then writing an explanation of what your drawing is.
Stick to highlighting super important information. If your entire text is covered in highlighter, you won’t be able to figure out what’s actually important.

Step 6 Use different techniques to identify characters or literary tropes.

For example, you may want to circle new vocabulary, box figurative language, underline thematic statements, and place parentheses around descriptions of settings.
You can use different color highlighters to identify text relevant to character, theme, or setting. You can also use different color highlighters to identify important statements about different characters.
You can create different symbols to make it easier to identify relevant pages. For example, an asterisk in the margins or top of the page could identify pages with major parts of the argument. You can use arrows to point to quotes that you know you will use during the essay.

Step 7 Create a legend for your annotations.

For an e-reader, write a note at the beginning of the text.
Be as consistent as you can with your symbols so you understand what you were trying to say.

Taking Notes

Step 1 Write out your own original ideas in the margins.

A common mistake with annotations is to underline too much and take too few notes. Your notes will help you to make important connections that you can refer to later. Otherwise, you might forget what it was that you found to be important about the underlined section.

You won't always have to do this, especially if it is an essay.
Consider making your predictions on Post-it notes or on a separate sheet of paper. This will free up your margins for more important information.

Step 3 Keep an index of key information.

Keep a list of themes and important figurative elements. This is especially important if you are going to be asked to do a literary analysis or write an essay. You can write these on a separate piece of paper, or on a blank page in the front of the book.
While you're reading the text, keep track of moments when major characters change or evolve.
List comments and page numbers under each theme. The more detailed you are, the easier it will be to write a paper and provide evidence.

Step 4 Summarize the important points of each chapter.

In a book, you can write this in the space between chapters. For e-books, write notes at the end of the text in the chapter. You can also write comments on a separate piece of paper or in a word file.
You can also make a list of reflective questions to ask yourself at the end of every chapter so it's easier to summarize them.

Using Annotations to Understand a Tough Text

Step 1 Write down questions that you have.

Write these in the margins in pencil or on a separate sheet of paper.
When you get the answer, go back and write it under the question. If it's too long, write the page or paragraph number that the answer can be found on.

If there is enough space, you can write the definition under the passage. For example, text books often have several line breaks between paragraphs. Take advantage of these.
Take note of any key terms as well. Mark these in the passage so that you can see how they are used.

You can write these directly next to the words as they appear, or you can keep a list on a separate piece of paper to look back on later.

Step 4 Number important steps in plot development or argument.

If, for example, you are reading a book on chemistry, you could number each step necessary to produce a chemical reaction.

Annotating Digital Text

Step 1 Highlight and write directly onto a PDF.

If you’re using a tablet, you can write on the margins of the PDF with a stylus to take notes.

Step 2 Download a browser extension to annotate texts online.

Diigo, A.nnotate, and Kindle for PC are a few popular browser extensions for annotation.
You should note that these browser extensions will often not let you annotate PDFs or word files—they’re for web pages only.

Step 3 Annotate directly onto a Zoom meeting.

Once your annotations are turned on, you can use a pen tool, highlight tool, and even share your screen with others so they can see your notes.
You can also annotate on the Zoom app if you’re using a mobile device.

Community Q&A

When annotating a book, add your opinion and what you feel about a particular sentence. Thanks Helpful 3 Not Helpful 0
Remember to erase pencil notations before returning the book to a library or school classroom. Thanks Helpful 3 Not Helpful 2

↑ https://www.kellogg.edu/upload/eng151text/chapter/text-how-to-annotate/index.html
↑ https://www.covcath.org/uploaded/06_Students/Annotation_Guide_AP_Language.pdf
↑ https://www.hunter.cuny.edu/rwc/handouts/the-writing-process-1/invention/Annotating-a-Text/
↑ https://learningcenter.unc.edu/tips-and-tools/annotating-texts/
↑ http://www.hunter.cuny.edu/rwc/handouts/the-writing-process-1/invention/Annotating-a-Text/
↑ https://research.ewu.edu/writers_c_read_study_strategies
↑ https://www.chino.k12.ca.us/site/handlers/filedownload.ashx?moduleinstanceid=34965&dataid=72719&FileName=Annotation%20Guidelines.pdf
↑ https://techstyle.lmc.gatech.edu/how-to-annotate-digital-texts/
↑ https://support.zoom.us/hc/en-us/articles/115005706806-Using-annotation-tools-on-a-shared-screen-or-whiteboard

About This Article

Before you annotate a text, read it thoroughly so you can identify the main points or themes that you want to focus on. Next, highlight important passages and use different markings to identify things you want to make note of. For example, you can circle the names of any new characters as they appear, or underline statements relating to the theme. Then, create a legend by listing what each type of annotation means so that you can quickly find it again later. Finally, write an index of your notes on the text by writing down the page numbers and a short description of your observation on a separate paper. For tips from our Education reviewer on how to summarize each chapter in a text, read on! Did this summary help you? Yes No

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Writing and Presenting Guide

Annotated bibliography in apa style, what is an annotated bibliography.

An annotated bibliography is essentially a list of citations to books, articles, and other documents, e-resources--(websites for example), and media (film, music, television.) Following the citation is a brief (usually about 150 words) descriptive and evaluative paragraph of the work. These paragraphs are the annotation. The purpose of the annotation is to help you manage your research and also to inform your professor of the relevance, accuracy, and quality of the sources cited.

Example Annotated Bibliographies

Example of a book citation with annotation.

Liroff, R. A., & G. G. Davis. (1981). Protecting open space: Land use control in the Adirondack Park. Cambridge, MA: Ballinger.

This book describes the implementation of regional planning and land use regulation in the Adirondack Park in upstate New York. The authors provide program evaluations of the Adirondack Park Agency's regulatory and local planning assistance programs.

Example of a Journal Article Citation with Annotation

Gottlieb, P. D. (1995). The "golden egg" as a natural resource: Toward a normative theory of growth management. Society and Natural Resources, 8, (5): 49-56.

This article explains the dilemma faced by North American suburbs, which demand both preservation of local amenities (to protect the quality of life) and physical development (to expand the tax base). Growth management has been proposed as a policy solution to this dilemma. An analogy is made between this approach and resource economics. The author concludes that the growth management debate raises legitimate issues of sustainability and efficiency.

More Examples

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Adapted from Olin & Uris Libraries, Cornell University, Cornell, NY https://guides.library.cornell.edu/annotatedbibliography This link opens in a new window

Looking for tips and tricks to help you write an annotated bibliography?

Check out these resources:

Academic Support Video

Helpful Academic Support Resources

How to Build an Annotated Bibliography Entry This link opens in a new window
Literature Review vs. Annotated Bib with Example This link opens in a new window

Helpful Library FAQs

Where can I find an example of an annotated bibliography?
What is an annotated bibliography and how do I write one?

Helpful Web Resources

Annotated Bibliographies (OWL at Purdue) This link opens in a new window
How to Prepare and Annotated Bibliography (Cornell) This link opens in a new window
How to Write an Annotated Bibliography (Skidmore College) This link opens in a new window
How to Write an Annotated Bibliography (UMUC) This link opens in a new window
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Persuasive Essay on Seatbelts

How it works

Alright, let’s chat about seatbelts for a bit. You know, those straps we always forget to buckle up? They’re actually super important but often overlooked by many drivers and passengers. This little essay is all about why wearing a seatbelt should be something we all do without even thinking, the science backing them up, and the moral duty we have to protect not just ourselves, but others too.

Alright, first off, what’s the main job of a seatbelt? It’s to keep you in your seat if you get into a crash.

If you’re not wearing one, the crash can throw you forward pretty fast, which can lead to really bad injuries or even death. The folks at the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) say that wearing a seatbelt can cut the risk of dying by 45% for people in the front seat and the chance of serious injury by 50%. Those numbers alone should make anyone think twice about skipping the seatbelt. Plus, seatbelts stop you from getting thrown out of the car, which is usually fatal or leads to awful injuries. Staying inside the car with your seatbelt on gives you a big edge in staying safe.

Now, onto the science stuff. Researchers have shown over and over that seatbelts save lives. One study in the American Journal of Public Health found that using a seatbelt can prevent about 45% of deaths and 50% of serious injuries in car crashes. That’s some pretty solid proof that we should all buckle up. And seatbelt tech has gotten better too. Things like pretensioners and load limiters make them even more effective. Pretensioners tighten the belt right when a crash happens, keeping you from flying forward too much, and load limiters let the belt give a bit so it doesn’t crush your chest. These improvements show how car makers are working hard to keep us safe.

Lastly, wearing a seatbelt isn’t just about you. It’s about everyone around you too. If you’re not buckled in and there’s a crash, you can hurt others in the car by becoming a human missile. Plus, the costs of injuries from not wearing a seatbelt hit everyone. Medical bills, rehab, and lost work can add up big time. By wearing a seatbelt, you’re helping to cut these costs and showing you care about your community. Setting a good example, especially for kids, is huge. When kids see adults wearing seatbelts, they’re more likely to do it too, which can lead to a safer future for everyone.

So, to wrap things up, wearing a seatbelt is super important. It’s a proven way to lower the risk of getting hurt or killed in a car crash. The science behind it is rock solid, and the new tech in seatbelts makes them even better. Beyond just keeping yourself safe, wearing a seatbelt shows you care about others. By making it a habit and encouraging others to do the same, we can all help make the roads safer for everyone. Let’s make sure we always buckle up and make it a part of our daily routine.

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Persuasive Essay on Seatbelts. (2024, Sep 17). Retrieved from https://papersowl.com/examples/persuasive-essay-on-seatbelts/

"Persuasive Essay on Seatbelts." PapersOwl.com , 17 Sep 2024, https://papersowl.com/examples/persuasive-essay-on-seatbelts/

PapersOwl.com. (2024). Persuasive Essay on Seatbelts . [Online]. Available at: https://papersowl.com/examples/persuasive-essay-on-seatbelts/ [Accessed: 18 Sep. 2024]

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PapersOwl.com. (2024). Persuasive Essay on Seatbelts . [Online]. Available at: https://papersowl.com/examples/persuasive-essay-on-seatbelts/ [Accessed: 18-Sep-2024]

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IMAGES

How to Write a 5 Paragraph Essay: Guide for Students
Typical-Essay-Structure-5-Paragraphs
Examples of a 5-Paragraph Essay with 2-Week Units: BUNDLE
A Generic Five Paragraph Essay Template and Example by The English Shrew
5 Paragraph Essay: What Is It and How to Write It
How to Write a 5 Paragraph Essay: Guide for Students

VIDEO

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Critical Essay Writing: How to Write an Introduction (National 5 & Higher English)
How to Teach English
5 paragraph essay
How to Write a Poetry Analysis Essay| GCSE Literature
IB English A: Past Paper 1

COMMENTS

How to Write a Five-Paragraph Essay, With Examples
The five-paragraph essay format is a guide that helps writers structure an essay. It consists of one introductory paragraph, three body paragraphs for support, and one concluding paragraph. Because of this structure, it has been nicknamed the "hamburger essay," the "one-three-one essay," and the "three-tier essay.".
Mastering the Five Paragraph Essay: Easy Steps for Successful Writing
Check for coherence and organization: Make sure your ideas flow logically and cohesively throughout your essay. Ensure that each paragraph connects smoothly to the next, and that your arguments are supported by relevant evidence. 5. Look for consistency: Check for consistency in your writing style, tone, and formatting.
A Guide to Writing a Five-Paragraph Essay
The five-paragraph essay is a fundamental writing technique, sometimes called "The Basic Essay," "The Academic Response Essay," or the "1-3-1 Essay." No matter what you call it, understanding this format is key to organizing your thoughts clearly and effectively. Once you learn the structure, writing essays for any academic subject becomes much ...
How to Craft a Stellar 5-Paragraph Essay: A Step-by-Step Guide
Write the Introduction. Start the essay with a " hook "—an attention-grabbing statement that will get the reader's interest. This could be an interesting fact, a quote, or a question. After the hook, introduce your topic and end the introduction with a clear thesis statement that presents your main argument or point.
5 Paragraph Essay: Guide, Topics, Outline, Examples, Tips
Example: "According to a study by the World Health Organization, regular physical activity can reduce the risk of chronic diseases by up to 30%." 5. Vary Your Sentence Structure: Mix short and long sentences to keep your writing engaging. This helps maintain the reader's interest and makes your essay more dynamic. 6.
A Sample Five-Paragraph Essay
Tension builds in the body because of an over accumulation of adrenaline produced by stress, anxiety, or fear.*. Doctors agree that performing calisthenics or participating in an active sport such as tennis or volleyball for 30 minutes releases tension. If a person swims, jogs, or rides a bicycle for half that time, he or she should sleep ...
How to Write an Annotation
For the annotation of media assignments in this class, you will cite and comment on a minimum of THREE (3) statements, facts, examples, research or any combination of those from the notes you take about selected media. Here is an example format for an assignment to annotate media: Passage #. Describe Passage. My Comments / Ideas.
Secrets of the Five-Paragraph Essay
The five-paragraph essay consists of one introduction paragraph (with the thesis at its end), three body paragraphs (each beginning with one of three main points) and one last paragraph—the conclusion. 1-3-1. Once you have this outline, you have the basic template for most academic writing. Most of all, you have an organized way to approach ...
How to Write a Five-Paragraph Essay (with Examples)
Writing a five-paragraph essay. Write the hook and thesis statement in the first paragraph. Write the conflict of the essay in the second paragraph. Write the supporting details of the conflict in the third paragraph. Write the weakest arguments in the fourth paragraph. Write the summary and call-to-action prompt in the fifth paragraph.
The Five Paragraph Essay: Developing and Organizing Your Ideas
Body Paragraphs. Each of the three body paragraphs of your essay should include a topic sentence or sentences that clearly signal to the reader which of your "because" statements you are going to address. Next, the paragraph should present in detail the reasoning, anecdotes, examples, facts, statistics, or sources, in other words, the ...
Examples of Five-Paragraph Essays
Sample of a Persuasive / Argumentative Five-Paragraph Essay. A Cat is a Man's Best Friend. This model essay is a good example of an Argumentative (or Persuasive) Essay. A Cat is a A Man's Best Friend. Compare & Contrast / Argument (Persuasive) Essay. SAMPLE PROCESS ESSAY.
The Ultimate Guide to Writing a 5 Paragraph Essay
One of the most important aspects of writing a 5 paragraph essay is selecting a compelling topic. Your topic should be interesting, relevant, and engaging to both you as the writer and your audience. When choosing a topic, consider your own interests and passions, as well as current events and issues that are of importance.
Five Paragraph Essay: Full Guide With Examples
The 5 paragraph essay is really small, so warp from original topic is a big breakdown of the rule. You must focus on the exact theme, create thesis statements, and use them during the whole essay. Besides, your conclusions should also be connected with the introduction and body; use fair and strong arguments.
How to Annotate
These could be words you are not familiar with or will need to review later. Define those words in the margins. To summarize how you will annotate text: 1. Identify the BIG IDEA. 2. Underline topic sentences or main ideas. 3. Connect ideas with arrows.
How to Write a 5 Paragraph Essay: Outline, Example
Put the word "Thesis" in the middle (circled), and then put the words "Point 1," "Point 2," and "Point 3" around it. Draw circles around those words, and connect them to "Thesis" using lines. See example below. Don't spend too much time creating a graphic organizer, though. At some point, you need to start writing your 5 ...
Research Guides: Writing and Presenting Guide: Writing an Essay
What is an Essay? An essay is a short-form piece of writing that addresses a unified goal or thesis. There are many types of essays and papers you can write as a student. The content and length of an essay vary depending on your level, subject of study, and specific course requirements. Essays have an introduction, body, and conclusion.
How to Write an Annotation
For the annotation of reading assignments in this class, you will cite and comment on a minimum of FIVE (5) phrases, sentences or passages from notes you take on the selected readings. Here is an example format for an assignment to annotate a written text: Passage #. Quotation and Location. My Comments / Ideas.
Annotating Texts
What is annotation? Annotation can be: A systematic summary of the text that you create within the document. A key tool for close reading that helps you uncover patterns, notice important words, and identify main points. An active learning strategy that improves comprehension and retention of information.
How to Annotate Texts
Analyzing a Speech Using Annotation (UNC-TV/PBS Learning Media) This complete lesson plan, which includes a guide for the teacher and relevant handouts for students, will prepare students to analyze both the written and presentation components of a speech. This lesson plan is best for students in 6th-10th grade.
Writing Annotations
Indicative Style - This style of annotation identifies the main theme and lists the significant topics included in the source. Usually no specific details are given beyond the topic list . Example: Gambell, T.J., & Hunter, D. M. (1999). Rethinking gender differences in literacy.
5 Ways to Annotate
You can use arrows to point to quotes that you know you will use during the essay. 7. Create a legend for your annotations. Make a list that explains what each type of annotation you use means. If you are using a print out, write the key on a blank piece of paper attached to the printout.
Annotating an Essay or Book
5:02: A topic sentence might come 5:04: at the beginning of a paragraph, followed by supporting details; 5:08: at the end of a paragraph, after the supporting details; 5:11: or in the middle of a paragraph, after some kind of opening hook or example, but before the supporting details. 5:19: Now, here are some clues to help you find the topic ...
APA Annotated Bibliography
An annotated bibliography is essentially a list of citations to books, articles, and other documents, e-resources--(websites for example), and media (film, music, television.) Following the citation is a brief (usually about 150 words) descriptive and evaluative paragraph of the work. These paragraphs are the annotation.
Persuasive Essay on Seatbelts
Essay Example: Alright, let's chat about seatbelts for a bit. You know, those straps we always forget to buckle up? They're actually super important but often overlooked by many drivers and passengers. This little essay is all about why wearing a seatbelt should be something we all do without