Thursday, 28 March 2024

Structuring an essay: Format with word limit

Coherence and word-count are two of the most important criteria in assessing an essay; the lack of either will surely result in reduced score. However, both requirements can be easily met with a format which is contingent on word-count.

Introduction

Try to keep your introduction within 50 to 60 words. Make sure your introduction starts with a hook. It should be followed by background information that can be 2–3 sentences long. To finish it off, write a clear and concise thesis statement.

Body Paragraphs

Depending on the required word limit, you have to decide whether to write 2 or 3 paragraphs; they also vary according to the test you are taking. Typically, for approximately 250 words 2 body paragraphs may suffice. However, when you are asked to write in academic tests, it may exceed 400 words. In that case, it will be a good idea to plan 3 or more body paragraphs. Accordingly, the paragraphs should be of 80 to 100 words long.

Conclusion

The conclusion sums up the main idea of the thesis in different words. Additionally, it may include a suggestion, prediction or warning. Since it’s the last paragraph, it’s better not to introduce any new idea. It is also important to keep the length between 30 and 40 words.

Overall, you should plan your writing keeping the aforementioned aspects in mind. It will help you enormously to manage your allocated time properly.



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