The Structure (or Arrangment of Paragraphs) of an AP Essay

Introduction
—The introduction of an AP Essay should be quite short, perhaps one or two sentences in addition to the thesis sentence.
—The thesis should be precise and directly focused on the prompt's main question.

Body Paragraphs
—You should probably attempt two solid body paragraphs for an AP essay since your time is so short.
—The topic sentences are key in these paragraphs. You must open the topic sentences on an analytical note, announcing the argument of the paragraph as it will show the manner in which formal elements create meaning. Do not write a general commentary for your topic sentence and don't write a sentence on the first element that you are going to treat in the paragraph. It must be focused on the work in question and focused precisely on analytical elements.
—Support the argument of your topic sentences with specific references to text followed by analysis that focuses on particular techniques such as diction, imagery, tone, argument, assumptions, metaphor, etc. Make at least three references to text in each body paragraph. Any fewer makes for an undeveloped paragraph and any more will likely lead you to run out of time before you complete two good body paragraphs.

Conclusion
—The conclusion is least important in an AP essay. If you have time to write it, write only two or three sentences, and show the significance of your thesis now that you have shown it in analysis. Remember to focus on the form more than you focus on the meaning

If you are asked to compare two works
Comparison essays have a particular structure which you should follow for the best results.
— Your thesis should state the primary distinction about the two works as it relates directly to the prompt question. Avoid writing a thesis that asserts no clear distinctions between the two works.
— Your first body paragraph should deal with the first work, using examples that will later be accessed in comparing this work to the second work.
— Your second body paragraph should begin with a topic sentence that directly compares the two works, which emphasis on the second work. Each point in support of this second body paragraph topic sentence should be a point of comparison.