i) Structure – Begin your essay with a thesis statement – one or two sentences that condense the argument or analysis to follow. (e.g. Lobbying created benefits for businesses for X reasons, specifically … Or e.g. In retrospect, it was not in the best interest for Eastern European member states to join the EU because …). The thesis statement is then followed by an introduction, which outlines both the essay’s structure and the main points for discussion. The body of the essay is where arguments should be developed, and proved or disproved according to the evidence. Be sure the discussion here is relevant to the topic at hand. Finally, summarize key points made throughout the essay and highlight any conclusions to be drawn. . ii) Argument and Content – The argument refers to the ‘point of view’ to be discussed. It should be captured by the thesis statement. The argument or point of view should be clearly developed throughout the essay, and supported by the evidence and analyses. . iii) Supportive Evidence – You must use evidence – relevant and reliable information, figures and/or examples (e.g. pertaining to countries, industries or businesses) – to support your argument and the claims made. . iv) Referencing – Use the appropriate reading materials – articles (academic and non-academic articles), books, reports etc. – to back up your argument(s).