Resources

This page is where I’ll share free general writing resources, checklists, templates, and study tools.

Possible resources may include:

  • Essay planning sheets
  • Thesis statement templates
  • Paragraph checklists
  • Revision checklists
  • MLA formatting guides
  • Peer review questions
  • Grammar practice sheets
  • Study guides
  • Printable writing reminders

These resources are meant to help students practice writing skills, not replace their own thinking or work.

Writing support should make you more confident, not more dependent.

---

Paragraph structure


Plain text version:

A paragraph is a collection of sentences (usually 5-10 in academic writing) around the same topic.

It consists of a topic sentence plus 2-3 supporting examples or pieces of evidence that supports it.

Generally, you should PEEC in every paragraph (point + evidence + evidence + conclusion).

Each example or piece of evidence may take 1-3 sentences. 


Paragraph Outline

Topic sentence: ___________________________________________________________________

  1. Major detail: __________________________________________________________________

  1. Specific example/evidence/analysis: ____________________________________________

_____________________________________________________________________________

  1. Specific example/evidence/analysis: _____________________________________________

_____________________________________________________________________________

2.   Major detail: __________________________________________________________________

  1. Specific example/evidence/analysis: ____________________________________________

_____________________________________________________________________________

  1. Specific example/evidence/analysis: ____________________________________________

_____________________________________________________________________________

  1. Major detail: __________________________________________________________________

  1. Specific example/evidence/analysis: _____________________________________________

_____________________________________________________________________________

  1. Specific example/evidence/analysis: _____________________________________________

______________________________________________________________________________

Closing sentence of analysis: ______________________________________________________

______________________________________________________________________________


Essay Organizer


TITLE: (relevant to topic, draws reader’s attention) 


 

INTRODUCTORY PARAGRAPH: (introductory ideas, background, interesting facts) 

 

1. 

 

2. 

 

3. 

 

THESIS (the main topic of the paper or the issue you intend to argue) 


 ________________________________________________________________________

 

FIRST PARAGRAPH Topic Sentence (Relates to thesis, focuses on a part of the thesis’ topic) 

 

 ________________________________________________________________________


Supporting Details (evidence for the issue or argument you pose) & Analysis (Explain how and why the supporting evidence is relevant to your topic/audience?) 

 

1. 

 

2. 

 

3. 

 

NEXT PARAGRAPH 

Topic Sentence (include transition ideas that connect it to thesis and to the prior paragraph) 

 

________________________________________________________________________


Supporting Details (evidence for the issue or argument you pose) & Analysis (Explain how and why the supporting evidence is relevant to your topic/audience?) 

 

1. 

 

2. 

 

3. 

 

NEXT PARAGRAPH 

Topic Sentence (include transition ideas that connect it to thesis and to the prior paragraph) 

 

 ________________________________________________________________________


Supporting Details (evidence for the issue or argument you pose) & Analysis (Explain how and why the supporting evidence is relevant to your topic/audience?) 

 

1. 

 

2. 

 

3. 

 

CONCLUDING PARAGRAPH: Go beyond your introduction to propose action, make recommendations, show the overall connection (the how and the why) between all your support details. Can you end with a clincher that will make your audience think more about the topic?  List elements that should be included in your conclusion. 

 

1. 

 

2. 

 

3. 



Essay Graphic Organizer



---

ESSAY OUTLINE DETAILED
Note: While this form provides space for three major supports with two minor supports for each body paragraph, not all paragraphs will not need that much detail.  


TITLE: ______________________________________________________________________

INTRODUCTORY PARAGRAPH

1. Hook to grab the reader’s attention: ______________________________________________________ _____________________________________________________________________________________ _____________________________________________________________________________________

2. Thesis and points (topic, stance & organization of flow):______________________________________ _____________________________________________________________________________________ _____________________________________________________________________________________

FIRST SUPPORTING PARAGRAPH 

Topic Sentence: _______________________________________________________________________

_____________________________________________________________________________________

A.  Major support ______________________________________________________________________

1.  minor support___________________________________________________________

2.  minor support___________________________________________________________

B.  Major support ______________________________________________________________________

_____________________________________________________________________________________

1.  minor support___________________________________________________________

2.  minor support___________________________________________________________

C.  Major support ______________________________________________________________________

_____________________________________________________________________________________

1.  minor support___________________________________________________________

2.  minor support___________________________________________________________

Conclusion Sentence: ___________________________________________________________________ 

_____________________________________________________________________________________

SECOND SUPPORTING PARAGRAPH 

Topic Sentence: ________________________________________________________________________

_____________________________________________________________________________________

A.  Major support ______________________________________________________________________

1.  minor support___________________________________________________________

2.  minor support__________________________________________________________

B.  Major support _____________________________________________________________________

____________________________________________________________________________________

1.  minor support__________________________________________________________

2.  minor support__________________________________________________________

C.  Major support _____________________________________________________________________

____________________________________________________________________________________

1.  minor support__________________________________________________________

2.  minor support__________________________________________________________

Conclusion Sentence: __________________________________________________________________ 

____________________________________________________________________________________

THIRD SUPPORTING PARAGRAPH

Topic Sentence: _______________________________________________________________________

_____________________________________________________________________________________

A.  Major support ______________________________________________________________________

_____________________________________________________________________________________

1.  minor support___________________________________________________________

2.  minor support___________________________________________________________

B.  Major support ______________________________________________________________________

_____________________________________________________________________________________

1.  minor support___________________________________________________________

2.  minor support___________________________________________________________

C.  Major support ______________________________________________________________________

_____________________________________________________________________________________

1.  minor support___________________________________________________________

2.  minor support___________________________________________________________

Conclusion Sentence: ___________________________________________________________________ 

_____________________________________________________________________________________


CLOSING PARAGRAPH (Conclusion)

_______________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________


---------

Here’s a detailed breakdown of the structure and purpose of each part of the Rogerian argument on Universal Basic Income (UBI):

1. Introduction: Presenting the Controversy

Purpose: The introduction serves to introduce the controversial topic (in this case, Universal Basic Income), providing a clear overview of the argument. It sets the stage for the discussion by presenting the two opposing sides, those who support UBI and those who oppose it.

“The idea of Universal Basic Income (UBI), providing all citizens with a fixed, unconditional sum of money regularly, has garnered significant attention and debate in recent years.”

This is a neutral opening statement that clarifies what UBI is and acknowledges its relevance as a current topic of debate.

“Advocates argue that UBI could serve as a solution to poverty, income inequality, and the potential economic disruption caused by automation. Critics, however, argue that UBI is financially unsustainable and that it undermines the work ethic, creating disincentives for productivity.”

This sentence outlines the two sides of the debate and foreshadows the argument’s aim: to find a middle ground between these differing views.

2. Understanding the Concerns of Critics

Purpose: This section is dedicated to presenting the critic’s viewpoint in a fair and thorough manner. By explaining the opposition's arguments, the writer shows an understanding of the complexity of the issue and acknowledges the concerns that need to be addressed.

“Critics of Universal Basic Income raise significant points regarding its feasibility and potential negative consequences.” This statement shows respect for the critics' perspective and frames their concerns in a way that sets up the arguments to follow.

The section then goes on to elaborate on two major criticisms: the financial burden of UBI and the potential loss of work ethic. These are clearly laid out to give weight to the opposition’s argument.

"Another concern is the potential erosion of the work ethic."
By addressing the key points critics make, the writer is demonstrating an unbiased approach—this helps to build trust and show that the writer recognizes the legitimacy of both sides.

3. Recognizing the Value of Supporters’ Viewpoint

Purpose: This section presents the supporters' perspective, following the same approach as the previous section. By offering a full account of the pro-UBI arguments, the writer ensures that both sides are treated fairly and equally, which is crucial in a Rogerian argument.

"On the other hand, proponents of Universal Basic Income present compelling arguments about how it could address systemic issues within our economic system."
This transition clearly signals the shift in focus to the other side of the debate, acknowledging that UBI supporters also have strong reasons for advocating their position.

The section then provides reasons why UBI could be beneficial, including reducing income inequality, addressing automation’s impact on jobs, and increasing individual freedom. Each argument is presented in a way that values the potential of UBI to improve society and the economy.

"Supporters also point to the rapid changes in the labor market due to technological advancements."
This shows that the writer is aware of current global issues, which further strengthens the argument and shows an understanding of the real-world context in which this debate takes place.

4. Finding Common Ground: A Balanced Approach

Purpose: This is the most critical section in a Rogerian argument because it proposes a compromise or middle ground between the two opposing views. The goal is to move beyond the binary “for or against” stance and offer a solution that addresses the concerns (self-interest) of both sides.

"While there are valid concerns on both sides of the debate, it is possible to find a middle ground that incorporates the strengths of each perspective."
This sentence signals the transition from presenting both sides to proposing a balanced resolution. The idea here is to acknowledge that both positions have merit and that the solution lies in blending their strengths. (This is your thesis)

The section suggests modifying UBI to ensure financial sustainability by gradually implementing it and supplementing existing social welfare programs. This helps address the critic’s concern about financial strain while still moving towards the supporter’s goal of providing security.

Additionally, the proposal to adjust UBI for work incentives acknowledges the concern about people losing the will to work but also allows for the flexibility to promote personal freedom and economic mobility.

The mention of retraining displaced workers also shows a thoughtful approach to addressing the root causes of job loss due to automation, balancing the need for economic security with a plan for workforce adaptability.

5. Conclusion: A Path Toward Equity and Opportunity

Purpose: The conclusion serves to reaffirm the middle ground and emphasize that a balanced approach can lead to positive outcomes. It also summarizes the argument and reinforces the value of compromise, suggesting that UBI can be beneficial if implemented thoughtfully.

"Universal Basic Income is a complex and controversial idea, but by recognizing the legitimate concerns of both critics and supporters, we can create a version of UBI that addresses its potential drawbacks while harnessing its power to reduce inequality and foster individual freedom."
This sentence reinforces the idea that the argument doesn’t just take one side—it synthesizes the important elements of both perspectives.

The conclusion ends by stating that through thoughtful policy design, UBI could be a tool for greater economic stability, fairness, and opportunity, thus showing how the compromise can have long-term benefits for all.

Key Purposes of Each Section in Rogerian Argument:

Introduction:

    Purpose: Set up the issue and present both sides neutrally, ensuring the audience understands the controversy.

Understanding the Concerns of Critics:

    Purpose: Respectfully present the opposition’s viewpoint, acknowledging its legitimacy and creating a space for dialogue.

Recognizing the Value of Supporters’ Viewpoint:

    Purpose: Equally present the proponents’ arguments, showing an understanding of their reasons for supporting UBI.

Finding Common Ground:

    Purpose: Propose a solution that addresses both sides’ concerns, aiming for a compromise that satisfies both parties. This is the heart of the Rogerian approach, where the two positions are reconciled.

Conclusion:

    Purpose: Reinforce the compromise, emphasizing that a balanced approach is the way forward for solving the issue in a fair, thoughtful, and constructive manner.

In a Rogerian argument, the goal is not to defeat the opponent but to reach a mutual understanding and find a solution that respects both viewpoints. Each section builds on this by empathetically presenting both sides before suggesting a reasonable compromise that can work for all involved.

Comments

Post a Comment

Popular posts from this blog

Welcome to Tutor Writes

Image
Welcome to Tutor Writes, a writing-help blog created for students who want clearer, more confident, and more organized writing. Writing can feel overwhelming because it asks you to do many things at once. You have to understand the assignment, form an idea, organize your thoughts, use evidence, explain your reasoning, follow formatting rules, and revise your sentences — all while trying not to panic over the blank page. This blog is here to slow that process down. At Tutor Writes, you’ll find practical writing support, including essay tips, revision strategies, grammar help, MLA reminders, paragraph guidance, and examples that show how writing can improve step by step. My goal is not to make writing sound mysterious or complicated. My goal is to make the process feel more understandable. I believe students are often stronger writers than they realize. Sometimes they just need someone to explain what an assignment is asking, show what revision can look like, or help them see the differe...
Read more