We will begin this series of writing tips by examining one of the basic structures for communication. This form is perhaps the dominant structure in the western world for organizing thoughtful, persuasive speech or writing. Think of the trial lawyer. She will claim that her client is not guilty. Then she will explain why her claim is valid by citing evidence that proves that the accused was not at the site of the crime, or that the accused could not possibly have committed the crime for one reason or another. This lawyer is using a classic rhetorical mode to convince the judge and jury that the accused did not commit the crime. Notice that the lawyer first stated the claim: "My client is not guilty." Then she supported her claim.

When you think about your writing, keep that lawyer in mind. Courses in the University Writing Program teach a simple but well-organized structure that begins with an occasion, which introduces the topic and gives your purpose and occasion for writing; it tells the reason for caring about your thesis. (The lawyer might use an opening remark giving the occasion for her presentation by stating, "My client has been accused of committing a crime.") Following your occasion, present your thesis in which you assert your central claim. Your thesis statement should cause your reader to ask: why is that true? (The lawyer claims "not guilty!" The jury wonders why.) Next, you will want to give your readers a sense of how you will explain why your thesis is valid; project an organization that outlines the reasoning and basic evidence you will use to support your claim. (The lawyer gives a general, brief overview of the evidence she will use.)

The body of your essay presents the detailed information that shows your claim is valid. And since you have projected the organization of that information, you will present the details in the same order you projected. You can think of the projected organization as a kind of road map of your essay. (The lawyer calls witnesses or offers specific supporting evidence according to the order in which she presented it in her overview.) In the end, you will formally conclude your presentation, much as the lawyer might end her presentation with "The preponderance of the evidence proves my client is not guilty."

You will find that this simple rhetorical structure serves writers well at the university and beyond. Outside the university, writers recognize this logical structure as a way in which to organize business, legal, and all kinds of other informative writing. The form is effective in "short form," too. By stating your occasion, your thesis, and your supporting evidence, and adding a conclusion, all in one or two paragraphs, you have an ideal response to essay test questions that ask you to "discuss" or "tell why" or "summarize." If your time is limited, you can omit the occasion (allow the question to serve as your occasion) and write a direct response by providing your thesis and supporting evidence. This short form also comes in handy for memos or preparing notes for an oral presentation.