Writing a five paragraph research paper may seem like a daunting task, but breaking it down step-by-step makes it much more manageable. A standard five paragraph paper consists of an introductory paragraph, three body paragraphs that support your main argument or claim, and a conclusion paragraph. Let’s explore each component in more detail:
Introduction Paragraph (Approximately 250-300 words)
The introduction serves to grab the reader’s attention and introduce the topic and thesis statement. It should include a hook or attention grabbing statement, background information to provide context, and your thesis statement which asserts your main argument or claim. A strong thesis statement clearly outlines what you will prove or argue in the paper. For example: “While video games are often criticized for their violent content, research shows they can have cognitive and social benefits when played in moderation.”
Body Paragraph 1 (Approximately 250-300 words)
The first body paragraph should focus on proving your first main point that supports your thesis statement. It needs a topic sentence that previews the point and relevant evidence from credible sources to prove that point, whether from research, statistics, expert opinions, examples, etc. Analyze and explain how the evidence supports your point. For the paper example, evidence on cognitive benefits of video games would be included here from psychological studies.
Body Paragraph 2 (Approximately 250-300 words)
The second body paragraph proves your second supporting point with new evidence from credible sources like the first paragraph. Introduce the new point with a topic sentence and follow with analysis of evidence and explanation of how it supports your overall argument. Continuing the example, this paragraph could focus on evidence for social benefits of co-op video games from sociological research.
Body Paragraph 3 (Approximately 250-300 words)
Similar to the previous two paragraphs, the third body paragraph proves your final supporting point with a topic sentence and new evidence. Analyze and explain how this third piece of evidence supports your overall thesis. For the video game paper, this could address moderation being key according to health studies on effects of excessive gameplay.
Conclusion Paragraph (Approximately 150-200 words)
The conclusion should not introduce any new information but rather restate the thesis statement and briefly summarize the three main points covered in the body paragraphs without simply copying them. It leaves the reader with a strong final impression of the argument and signals the end of the paper. For example, “While video games are often criticized, research shows they can have cognitive and social benefits if played in moderation, as evidenced by studies on their effects on brain function, cooperative gameplay, and excessive use on health.”
Additionally, here are some more tips for writing an effective five paragraph research paper:
Choose a sufficiently focused and arguable topic that can be proven in five paragraphs
Do thorough research from credible academic databases and scholarly sources
Create an outline to stay organized before writing
Integrate relevant evidence smoothly with smooth transitions between points
Use a formal objective tone without personal opinions or anecdotes
Paraphrase information and use in-text citations for any direct quotes
Include a works cited page in MLA, APA or Chicago citation style
Proofread for spelling, grammar, flow and clarity multiple times
Stick to the five paragraph formula but be concise and impactful
Following this structure and including strong evidence to prove your thesis makes for a well-organized and convincing five paragraph research paper. Remember that quality and credibility are more important than length. With thorough research and a step-by-step approach, students can successfully complete their first college level papers.