This list was created by the Sweet Briar College Academic Resource Center, using, in part, a list created by Dr. Andrea Nagy. Introduction Thesis A thesis is the main idea that drives the argument of the paper. The thesis is 1.Evident 2.Clear and 3.Concise. The writer's purpose is made clear in the thesis statement. The writer associates the thesis to key issues. The thesis is appropriate for the length of the paper. The first paragraph mentions the work(s) to be analyzed (if appropriate). How is the paper presented? Associative Argumentative Research Deductive essay Journal Comparison and contrast Definition Cause and effect Book/movie/play review Inductive essay Creative writing Body The purpose of each paragraph is clearly stated in the topic sentence(s); the topic sentence(s) state(s) an argument rather than a fact. Each paragraph develops a single point or idea. Each paragraph is logically organized. Every paragraph is relevant to the larger thesis. There is a smooth transition between paragraphs. No sections drift away from the thesis. Organization is apparent to the reader. Evidence The body contains specific details (evidence) to support the argument. Each assertion is supported with specific evidence. Interpretations and inferences follow logically from the evidence. Quotations Each quote is relevant to the point it supports. The quote is integrated smoothly into the paragraph. Quotations are appropriate length. Quotations of more than four lines are offset from the text of essay. Every quotation is documented with a reference. Quotations have been checked (and double-checked) for accuracy. The relationship of the quote to the rest of the paragraph is clear. Conclusion The paper proceeds to a logical conclusion. The thesis is re-asserted (if appropriate). The conclusion goes beyond merely summarizing the essay; the writer suggests the significant implications of her argument. There is a sense of closure. Bibliography The preferred citation format has been followed consistently. Internet information has been properly cited. Style Sentences are clear and explicit. Transitions between paragraphs and sentences are smooth and logical. The writer uses vivid, precise verbs. Passive voice is used with caution. The writer avoids excessive use of "to be," "to have," etc. There is no excessive use of adverbs or adjectives. Each sentence focuses on a simple point. Mechanics Grammar The verb tense is consistent. Present tense is used for literary analysis. There is subject/verb agreement. The sentences are complete. The paper primarily uses active voice. There is pronoun/antecedent agreement. Punctuation Commas are used correctly, i.e., to separate. Semicolons are used to join independent clauses. Colons are used only before a list, an appositive, or a quotation introduced by an independent clause. Apostrophes are used to indicate possession, the omission of letters in words, and plurals in words. Dashes are formed with two hyphens. Spell-check has been used. Appearance The paper's presentation is attractive. The typeface is easily readable. The pages are numbered. Academic Resource Center Sweet Briar College Sweet Briar, VA 24595 http://www.arc.sbc.edu/checklist.html (434) 381-6278