The essay is a prosaic work of small volume and free composition, expressing individual impressions and considerations on a particular issue or occasion and not necessarily claiming to be a comprehensive answer.
For starters, let’s look at the specifics of this essay as a genre.
The basics of the essay genre
- The title of the essay is not directly related to the topic: apart from reflecting the content of the work, it can be a starting point in the
- author’s reflections, expressing the relationship of part and whole.
- The free composition of an essay is subject to its internal logic, and the main idea of the essay should be sought in the author’s reflections. In this case, the problem will be considered from different angles.
- If a composition on a literary theme should be dominated by a rational combination of the analysis of the work of art with the author’s own reflections, the essay should clearly express the author’s position.
- If in a traditional essay individual features of style and language of the author are welcomed, then in the essay the individual author’s style is a genre requirement.
Approximate plan of the essay
The structure of an essay (taking into account all the features and specifics of a question) should, as a rule, include the following semantic elements (which do not necessarily have to be distinguished as separate sections of the text):
- Introduction – one paragraph. Use traps to attract attention, such as: a quote, poem, question, reflection, unusual facts, ideas, or funny stories. There is no need to express the main idea in the first sentence. But it should lead to it or somehow relate to the main idea or thesis, as well as contain the main points of the essay.
- Main part – 2-3 paragraphs. Express yourself clearly. Support the main ideas with facts, reflections, ideas, vivid descriptions, quotes or other information or materials that intrigue and capture the reader’s attention. Use reference materials to eliminate tautology.
- Conclusion – one paragraph. Show your growth and potential in the field. Show your views on the problem. What do you plan to do about the issue in your future?
