Elements of the Essay: Topic, Thesis, Coherence, Tone, and Style

Vocabulary flashcards covering key terms from the lecture notes on essays: topic, subject, thesis, coherence, tone, style, coherence strategies, placement options, funnel approach, audience, and imitation of style.

Topic

The specific focus of an essay; narrower than the subject and identified after narrowing from the broader subject.

Subject

The broad, general area or theme of a piece of writing.

Thesis statement

The main argument or claim about the topic; debatable and guides the essay; can appear at the beginning, in the middle, or at the end (beginners are often advised to start with it).

Debatable thesis

A thesis that invites challenge or argument; not a simple fact.

Coherence

The quality that ensures all ideas in a text are clearly related and flow logically toward the thesis; achieved with strategies like description, narrative, and transitions.

Tone

The writer’s attitude toward the subject, conveyed through word choice and style.

Style

The writer’s distinctive way of writing, including diction, rhythm, formality, and perspective; can be adjusted for audience and context.

Description (as a coherence strategy)

Using vivid details to illustrate features or settings to connect ideas and support the thesis.

Narrative (as a coherence strategy)

Using a sequence of events or storytelling to illustrate a point and contribute to coherence.

Compare and contrast (coherence strategy)

A technique that highlights similarities and differences to clarify arguments or choices.

Transitions

Words or phrases that guide readers through shifts in ideas or sections, aiding coherence.

Beginning placement of thesis

Placing the thesis in the opening paragraph to establish focus and orientation for the reader.

End placement of thesis

Placing the thesis toward the end of the essay, often arriving at the main claim near the conclusion.

Middle placement of thesis

Placing the thesis within the body of the essay; risk of reader confusion if not signposted clearly.

Funnel approach

The process of narrowing from a broad subject to a specific topic and then to a debatable thesis.

Audience

The intended readers; their expectations influence tone and style choices.

Imitation and developing your own style

Borrowing techniques from admired writers to learn, then developing your own voice and style over time.