Final answer:
A cause and effect essay should have a clear thesis statement, body paragraphs that support the thesis with evidence and analysis, and a conclusion that restates the thesis and summarizes the main points.
Step-by-step explanation:
To construct a cause and effect essay, one must first write a thesis statement that is a clear, arguable assertion. This serves as the anchor of the entire essay, guiding the arguments presented in the following paragraphs. When preparing the body of the essay, start each paragraph with a topic sentence that reflects the particular argument or category being discussed. Following the topic sentence, support the argument with informative quotes or evidence and provide analysis that connects back to the thesis statement. It's essential to ensure that all points made in these paragraphs are pertinent to the thesis.
In addition to arguing your case, be prepared to refute any counterpoints that could weaken your position. After presenting all the arguments and counterarguments, transition smoothly to the next part of the essay. The concluding paragraph should reassert the thesis in new words, briefly summarize the main points, and provide a powerful closing argument, reinforcing the importance of your analysis. To enhance the flow of the essay, end each body paragraph with a transition sentence that leads to the next one.