What does the body of an essay usually contain?

The body of an essay serves as the main section where the author develops and supports their central argument or thesis. It typically contains several paragraphs, each focusing on a specific point or piece of evidence that enhances the overall argument. This section is essential because it provides detailed explanations, examples, and supporting data that validate the claims made in the thesis statement. By including support and evidence, the body effectively persuades the reader and strengthens the essay's conclusions.

In contrast, the other choices do not accurately represent the content of the body of an essay. An overview of the conclusion would typically be found in the conclusion section, while a summary of the introduction does not belong in the body of the essay; such elements are often included to help provide context at the beginning and closure at the end of the essay. Furthermore, while references and citations can be included in the body, they do not constitute the primary focus or content of that section. Therefore, the correct answer highlights the critical function of the body in developing the thesis through logical reasoning and evidence.