The structure of an academic piece of writing refers to its form or organization. No one structure fits every type of academic writing. Some common structural features of academic writing, however, include:
Title
- attracts the reader’s attention
- indicates the focus of the assignment
Introduction
- Orients the reader to the topic, issue, purpose, scope, approach and perspective of the writing that follows
- Position/Thesis statement –the perspective to be examined/discussed/supported; Often occurs near the end of the introductory segment
Body Sections
- to develop/explain/examine/support the position presented in the introduction
- The number and type of sections/paragraphs included depend on the purpose, scope, and length of the writing/assignment requirements
- Sections may be designated by headings and sub-headings, depending on the type of assignment requirements provided
- Paragraphs within the body sections include the following components:
- Topic sentences – to convey the key point of each paragraph
- Developmental sentences – to explain, support, connect the key point to the rest of the writing
- Transitional phrases or sentences to move between sentences and paragraphs
Conclusion
- Provides the reader with a sense of fulfillment by
- Summing up the key ideas presented in the work
- Adding some perspective on implications, importance, or future research that could be done to enhance understanding of the issues discussed
References and Citations
- Be sure to include in-text citations for each reference to a source
- Include a list of sources at the end of the work to indicate all sources referenced in the work
- Be sure to use a consistent format (APA, MLA, Chicago, etc.) appropriate to the discipline you are working in or specified by your instructor
As a writer, you must consider your purpose, subject matter and anticipated audience to determine the most appropriate structure for your paper. However, knowing the structure that suits your paper is not enough; you need to follow a strategic process to create it.
As you work through your assignment, your goal is to help your reader grasp the intended meaning of your writing, or of the passages within it. If there are gaps in your train of thought, logical development, or explanation of how your points connect/why they are significant, your reader will be unable to understand what you are trying to say or why you are saying it. To ensure you are considering the needs of your audience, ask yourself these two questions:
- What do my readers need to know to understand my points?
- How can I help my reader follow as I move from one idea to another?
For tips on how to develop an effective writing process for academic essays and other assignments , see the Writing Strategies module.
