Sentence Starters

The below templates are meant to help you start writing your essay’s body paragraphs. Another good strategy is to pose a question for each paragraph that you will answer.

Introduction:

• “The topic of [your topic] is important because…”
• “In this essay, I will explore…”
• “Many people believe that [common belief], but I argue that…”

Body Paragraphs:

• “One significant reason for this is…”
• “For example, [example] illustrates…”
• “This point is further supported by…”

Counterarguments:

• “Some may argue that [counterargument], but…”
  • (Elliot’s note: As a professor, I kind of hate this one. It often sets us up for a Straw Man Logical Fallacy)
• “While it is true that [acknowledge opposing view], I contend that…”

Conclusion:

• “In conclusion, the evidence suggests that…”
• “Ultimately, the implications of this argument are…”
• “By considering [restate key points], we can better understand…”