1. Introduction
clear question as a starting point for argumentation
-Situation: why is the topic relevant?
-Complication: what is the thesis or problem?
Ø Solution: what methodology is applied?
2. Main section
core arguments, structured by paragraph
‣ One argument, one (clearly recognizable) paragraph
‣ Paragraphs are linked by a red (argumentative) thread
‣ Different structures possible:
‣ Thesis, followed by debunking alternative views
‣ Juxtaposition of two contradictory theses
‣ Synthesis of various stances
3. Conclusions
need to follow from core arguments in main section
–Refer back to initial question/problem
-What is the unique contribution of the essay?
Ø Outlook and further implications
Necessary elements
‣ Title page (incl. author information, declaration of independence)
‣ Quoting referenced literature (in main text)
‣ Reference list
‣ NOT part of an essay:
‣ Table of content, indexes
‣ Tables, figures
‣ Footnotes
‣ Descriptions of essay structure on the meta-level
Avoid flowery phrases and cliches
ØAvoid acronyms
Avoid passive tense whenever possible
ØUse verbs, not nouns
Avoid redundancies
Avoid using ChatGPT or any plagiarism
‣ Use quotes sparsely
‣ Provide facts and examples as proofs
‣ Take a stance