The document provides guidance on writing academic essays. It recommends that introductions declare an argument and place it in the context of ongoing discussions on the topic. The thesis, an arguable point, should appear at the end of the introduction. Body paragraphs should each make a point supported by evidence, with a topic sentence announcing the paragraph's argument. Conclusions should summarize without repeating and leave the reader thinking. Academic writing should be clear, concise, and persuasive for the intended reader. Facts and evidence should support arguments over personal feelings or rhetoric. Careful proofreading is important.