POINT:
Make your point or give your opinion. This is also called a topic sentence. It introduces your idea. This is the easy part because we all have points-it is like a warm up. Starting your point shows intent. There are many ways to make a point:
· introduce your idea
· state your opinion
· take a controversial position
· make an argument

ILLUSTRATE:
To illustrate your point means to support your point and prove it. This is also called concrete detail. This is the evidence or the “show me the money” part of writing. In this step you take your point and illustrate it. You might use terms like “For example” to remind yourself to give evidence. Giving examples of your point or idea helps with clarity and detail. Many things may count as illustration.
· personal experiences
· quote another person who supports your point
· detailed description
· historical reference
· statistics/facts
· examples/quotes from book

EXPLAIN:
To explain your idea is to extend the idea to show how important your argument is. This is also called commentary or critical thinking. It is your own original idea about your point or argument. This links your point and your illustration together. Explain is the most challenging aspect of PIE because you have to THINK to create an original idea. You may use terms like “therefore” as clues that you have some explaining to do. Explaining your idea means to extend it and go beyond the obvious.
· ask and answer why to your idea
· ask and answer how to our idea
· solve a problem or conflict
· identify a motive
· explain a quote
· redefine a word in a more precise way
· critically think about your point
· extend your ideas
· compare your idea to other points of view and explain the difference