How to Write an Essay in Question Format

Knowing an effective format in which to write a question essay is important.

The purpose of writing an essay in question format is to answer a specific question by the end of your essay. Compose a standard five-paragraph essay, and plan out your points ahead of time to create a concise essay that will answer the question in a convincing way.

Instructions

1. Read the question prompt, and brainstorm how you would like to answer the question. Research may be required. Come up with three main points that support your final answer.

2. Write an introduction to your essay. Address the question you are answering, any background information and include your three main supportive points to your answer. The sentence where you write your three main points is your thesis statement and it should fall at the end of the introduction.

3. Write your first body paragraph, which will expand on first main point that supports your answer. For example, if your main question is, "Do hamsters make good pets?" then your first main point might be "Hamsters make good pets because they are friendly." Expand with additional sentences supporting this statement (i.e., ways that they are friendly) from other references (if you are allowed to do so) or personal experience.

4. Write the second and third body paragraphs in the same manner as the first one. State your main point, and add supporting information. Each paragraph should be around five sentences long.

5. Write your conclusion paragraph. The conclusion paragraph sums up the entire paper and is your final chance to make your points for how you are answering the question. Although the conclusion basically restates everything in the introduction, the conclusion allows you to drive all three of your main points to support your answer to the question.

References

• The Writing Center: A Basic Essay Format