The word illustrate is often used at school, in college, and everyday conversations. Its origins are from the Latin word illustrate, which means to shed light on something. An illustration essay doesn’t differ much from the definition of the word itself. An illustration essay makes use of carefully selected examples to illustrate an idea or a concept. The general idea is not to create a boring list of ideas but more of a set of detailed examples that will make the elaborated topic as vivid as possible.
Main Components And Basic Structure
The basic structure of an illustration essay is a standard one: introduction, body paragraphs, and conclusion. However, the differences are in what goes into the paragraphs and how the main thesis is supported.
- The introduction is where you present your main thesis. The main thesis is the idea that you will support from that moment on. Every paragraph following will contain claims, examples, and proofs to illustrate that very idea – the main thesis. The thesis needs to be both challenging and argumentative. You can add statistics, quotations, or even a rhetorical question to make the introduction more intriguing.
- The main body paragraphs follow the introduction. It is where you bring out the “big guns” that are your best and most vivid examples, the ones that will shed the best light on your main thesis. You can start with the best examples and work your way to the rest. Or you can start from the lowest rated and proceed upwards. There is no strict definition or formula. Just go with your gut or how you feel it will resonate best with the targeted audience.
- The conclusion is where you reiterate your main thesis and the examples you provided in the main body. Here is your final shot at selling your idea to the reader. Don’t include new examples or any new information. Stick to what you said, and don’t be afraid to use some bold words to further reinforce your thesis.
Illustration Essay Outline
The outline is one of the best tools for making a great illustration essay. In a way, it is like a mini version of the essay and something that will keep you on track and focused. Another benefit is that you can show it to your professor once you make it and ask for feedback. That way, you will know whether you are on the right track or if something is missing.
But before the outline comes to the research and possibly a brainstorming session. That’s where you collect all of your findings and organize them in notes. Notes that you can use first for creating the outline and later for the essay itself.
In Conclusion
Writing this type of essay can be one of the easiest academic writings. However, that is as long as you follow some basic rules and can implement them in your writing. Besides that, make sure that your grammar and syntax are on the spot and you are good to go. Your essay is ready to be submitted.
