Skip to Main Content

Using the "Hamburger Method" to Write an Essay: Writing Paragraphs

Instructional Guide for using the Hamburger Method to structure essays and paragraphs

The "Hamburger Method" can also be used to organize and develop your individual body paragraphs. Use the downloadable documents on the left to help you follow the instructions in the right-hand column.

The Function of Paragraphs

  • Paragraphs are like a form of punctuation.
  • They make written material easer to read.
  • Visually, paragraphs are blocks of text parked with an indented first line.
  • Functionally, paragraphs represent pieces of an essay. 

Adapted from Harvey, Michael. The Nuts and Bolts of College Writing (Indianapolis, IN: Hackett Publishing,  2003)

The "Hamburger Method" of Arranging a Paragraph

  • The "Hamburger Method" is just one way of organizing pragraphs. 
  • Any sound arrangment requires three things from the writer:
    • Understand your argument and what you wish to say to your reader.
    • Decide on a sensible way to lay out the argument using a piece by piece arrangement to support, explain, and illuminate your argument.
    • Stick to the plan by making sure each sentence fits with your plan.
  • Topic Sentence: Like your thesis statement, the topic sentence tell your reader the context and framework of your paragraph.
  • Detail Sentences: Provide the content of your paragraph.
  • Conclusion Sentence: provides a brief summary or conclusion to your paragraph.