Mastering the formula for a mini-paper can simplify homework assignments.
The requirements of a mini-paper vary by school and instructor, but in general, a mini-paper is a basic five-paragraph argument essay that identifies a topic, offers a thesis, and provides evidence in support of that thesis. The first paragraph introduces the subject in increasingly specific terms and makes a statement, or thesis, about the writer's position. Three support paragraphs come next, followed by a conclusion that summarizes the supporting points and restates the thesis in the affirmative. A student can use this simple template as a basis for mini-papers on effectively any subject.
Instructions
1. Introduce the subject. Start with a broad scope and narrow to define the paper's specific topic. For example, an essay about the importance of taking Vitamin C supplements may start with a few sentences about how the body uses vitamins and minerals in general, then mention the effects of Vitamin C in particular.
2. Create a thesis. The thesis should be a comprehensive statement that clearly states the writer's position on the given subject. Simple qualitative words can help formulate a thesis: The subject is good because... The subject is bad because... People who support the subject are right because... People who support the subject are wrong because...
A thesis in the Vitamin C example may state that taking Vitamin C supplements is essential to a person's health, or it may state that Vitamin C supplements are ineffective and should not be taken.
3. Augment the thesis by introducing three supporting points. These supporting points will correspond with the three main body paragraphs that follow the introduction. If the writer's thesis is that Vitamin C supplements are good for one's health, his complete thesis sentence may look like this: "Because Vitamin C boosts the immune system [point #1], promotes healthy bone growth [point #2], and because the modern American diet does not include enough naturally occurring Vitamin C [point #3], supplements containing Vitamin C should be a regular part of our daily diet." This will be the final sentence of the introduction, which gives the reader a convenient "road map" for the rest of the paper.
4. Write the supporting paragraphs. These paragraphs correspond to the supporting points introduced in the thesis statement and should come in the same order. Each body paragraph should contain evidence from research to lend credibility to your argument. The third point should be the strongest support for the thesis, to leave a lasting impression in the reader's mind. If you realize one supporting point is weaker or stronger than you originally thought, don't worry. Just reorder the paragraphs and make sure to make the same changes in order to the thesis statement.
5. Write the concluding paragraph. The conclusion should restate the thesis and summarize without being repetitive. Rather, rephrase these elements in a concise and compelling manner. Be sure not to introduce new information in the conclusion.
Tags: supporting points, Vitamin supplements, because People, because People support,