Part I: Analysis of Issue: Structure and Template 
Structure is the most important part of your essay. Your essay must be written in a standard format with the standard logical transitions. The E-rater will scan your essay to identify if it has a standard structure.
· Introduction/Conclusion- These elements will provide the structure for your essay and keep you on track.
· Number of Paragraphs. To satisfy the E-rater, your essay should be 4 to 5 paragraphs: an introduction, a conclusion, and three "body" paragraphs. Each paragraph should have 2 to 5 sentences (total essay about 300-400 words). 
Note: You should skip a line between paragraphs since the TAB key does not function in the essay section. 
Essay Template
The template is just a guideline. You do not have to adhere to it. Often you will have to make 
changes to suit your argument.
· The numbers of sentences indicated for each paragraph is a guideline that varies depending on 
how much content you have.
· The transitional phrases we use in the Template are intentionally simplistic. This is not a 
simple approach where you can "fill-in-the-blanks." Flesh out the template somewhat and use it as a 
guideline to write a disciplined and focused essay. 
Template
1) Introductory Paragraph (2-4 sentences)
Make sure to keep your introductory paragraph concise, strong and effective.
What the introductory paragraph should accomplish:
· Explain the issue (briefly).
· Show that you understand the full complexities of the issue (for example, by recognizing 
competing interests or various factors).
· State your position on the issue (without the details yet).
Sample template for introductory paragraph (2 sentences):
a) Whether ________________________ depends on _____________________.
b) (insert your opinion), __________________________. 
2) First Body Paragraph (3-5 sentences)
Begin to develop your position with your most important reason. Use one or two examples to back up 
your main point:
a) The chief reason for my view is ___________________________________. 
b) For example, ____________________________________. 
c) Moreover, ______________________________. 
d) Finally, ________________________. 
3) Second Body Paragraph
Expand your position with a "secondary" reason. Support your rationale further with at least one 
example.
· State your second reason (one only).
· Provide rationale and/or evidence to support it. 
Here's a sample template for the second body paragraph that accomplishes these objectives:
a) Another reason for my view is_____________________________. 
b) Specifically,________________. 
c) The result is,__________________. 
4) Optional Third Body Paragraph
In this paragraph (optional) you acknowledge a competing viewpoint or counter-argument (and 
rationale and/or examples that support it), and then provide rebuttals to further support your 
position. In this paragraph you walk a tightrope, you mus