An easy way to write and think of an essay is to write a short one that comprises of just five paragraphs - commonly known as the five paragraph essay. This type of essay follows a simple structure that anyone can easily follow, and makes the process of writing an essay, for the first time, all that little bit easier.

Yes, the word count may differ for this type of essay, but it has a simple format and structure that enables writers of academic essays to complete this type of paper easily, through the use of five simple steps. This is achieved through five separate sections: the introduction, 3 paragraphs in the body, and then a paragraph at the end to conclude.

Step 1 - Introduction: you will want to provide a brief overview for the reader here, and also want to make sure that the reader knows what they can expect to learn/read when looking through your paper. Your introduction, therefore, needs to jump out and grab the attention of the reader, captivating their thoughts and understanding, as well as recognising that you have something to state/prove in this essay. This paragraph is similar to when you read a book from one of your favourite authors, you need to love, or at least be interested, in the book from the first chapter. Otherwise, you're going to want to discard the book and move onto the next; this is the same when you are writing your five paragraph essay, or any other essay for that matter.

Step 2 - Content Creation: The main body of the five paragraph essay will be the main three paragraphs that 'tell the story' of what you are writing about. You will want all three to follow from one to the next seamlessly, but at the same time be independent of one another. Here, you do not want to shy away from the thesis statement, but embrace it and introduce, in more detail, the points that were identified in the introduction of this essay. You should keep the harmony between the main body and conclusion, but not forget about the conclusion at the end - not doing so will cause your reader, and often yourself, a great deal of confusion.

Step 3 - Conclusion: having an effective conclusion at the end of your essay is crucial. You don't just want to repeat what you have said in the three paragraphs above, but you will also want to summarise and review what has been stated here, and how this has made an impact on what you have/will be researching. Effective conclusions need to be short, to the point and full of rich content.

Step 4 - Edit and Review: if you write your essay without reviewing it, then you will be considering going over some uncharted territory that could end up coming out the other side a little worse off. Many students do check their essays and papers, whether themselves, a friend, or indeed an editing company. However, many do not, and it is these students who will suffer in the long run. Many students who do not have their work reviewed will see a considerable reduction in grades when compared to other students who have done so. It makes sense to check your work and to make sure everything is 'picture perfect' before you go ahead and submit it.