Lastly, the format constrains the writing process into a tight configuration and encourages poor writing habits. The five-paragraph essay is almost never seen in newspapers, journals, books, or any form of scholarly articles, largely because it is the rhetorical equivalent of training wheels on a bicycle. ... In the context of writing college essays, it can be very limiting, and easily fails to engage the reader. Another setback associated with the five-paragraph essay is its inflexibility and the lack of range to address more complex writing assignments. ...

• Word Count: 431
• Approx Pages: 2
• Grade Level: Undergraduate