Why it Matters
Your first draft is where your ideas start turning into a real piece of writing. It’s not about perfection—it’s about progress. This step helps you take your outline and turn it into full sentences and paragraphs. Think of it like building a rough version of a project: it might be messy at first, but it gives you something solid to work with. You’ll have time later to revise, edit, and improve—right now, your goal is to get your ideas down on the page.
Here’s why drafting matters:
- It gets your ideas out of your head and onto the page.
Even if it’s messy, you now have something real to work with. - It helps you see what’s working—and what’s not.
Once your thoughts are written down, it’s easier to spot what needs more detail or clarity. - It builds confidence.
A blank page is the hardest part. Once you’ve got a first draft, you’re already halfway there. - It makes revision easier.
You can’t improve what isn’t written—your first draft gives you something to shape and refine.
Quick Tips!
Don’t Aim for Perfection: This is your first draft. Just get your ideas down—you’ll clean them up later.
Write First, Edit Later: Try not to stop and fix things as you go. Let your ideas flow, then revise in the next step.
Take Breaks: If you feel stuck, step away for a few minutes. A short break can help you come back with fresh energy and new ideas.
Writing the Introduction
Your introduction is your chance to grab the reader’s attention and set the tone for the rest of your essay.
Start with a Hook
Open with something that makes readers want to keep going—a surprising fact, a question, a quote, or a short story.
Example:
“Did you know that over 80% of the world’s energy still comes from fossil fuels?”
Present Your Thesis
Add your main idea (the thesis) at the end of the intro so readers know what to expect.
Preview Main Points (Optional)
In longer essays, briefly mention the points you’ll cover. This helps guide your reader through your argument or explanation.
Building Body Paragraphs
Each paragraph in your body should focus on one main idea and support your thesis.
Start with a Topic Sentence
Begin with a clear sentence that tells what the paragraph will be about.
Example: “Investing in renewable energy sources can significantly reduce carbon emissions.”
Add Supporting Details
Use facts, examples, quotes, or data that back up your main point.
Explain Your Evidence
Don’t just include a quote—explain why it matters. How does it support your point?
Use Transitions
Words like “in addition,” “for example,” or “on the other hand” help your writing flow and guide the reader through your ideas.
Writing the Conclusion
The conclusion wraps everything up and gives the reader something to think about.
Summarize Main Points
Restate the Thesis
End with a Final Thought
Leave the reader with something powerful—a call to action, a question, or a big idea.
Example:
“Switching to renewable energy isn’t just an option—it’s an urgent necessity for our planet’s future.”