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Writing a well-structured essay is like building a house: you need a solid foundation, sturdy walls, and a roof to complete it. A well-organized essay helps your ideas flow smoothly and makes it easier for readers to follow your argument. Plus, it shows that you’ve put thought into your work, making it more convincing and enjoyable to read.

So, what does a good essay structure look like? Whether you’re writing a narrative, descriptive, expository, or persuasive essay, following this structure will help you stay organized and make your writing more impactful. Let’s dive in and learn how to put it all together!

How to Structure an Essay

Imagine you’re building a house. You need a solid foundation, walls, and a roof to make it stand. Writing an essay is similar. It requires a good structure to hold your ideas together and make your argument clear. Let’s break down the go-to essay structure to help you get started.

First, you need an introduction that grabs the reader’s attention. Start with an engaging opening sentence that makes your reader want to keep going. This could be a surprising fact, a question, or a bold statement. Then, provide some background information to set the context or give a brief overview of the topic. Finally, end your introduction with a thesis statement that clearly presents the main argument or purpose of your essay.

Next, you have the body paragraphs . Each paragraph should begin with a topic sentence that introduces the main idea. Follow this with supporting details, which can be evidence, examples, or explanations that back up your point. It’s important to keep your ideas clear and logical. Also, use transitions to smoothly link each paragraph to the next, helping the reader follow your argument effortlessly.

Lastly, your conclusion ties everything together. Start by restating your thesis in different words to reinforce your main argument. Then, summarize the key points you discussed in the body paragraphs. This helps remind the reader of the journey they’ve taken through your essay. Finally, end with a closing statement or call to action that leaves a lasting impression. This could be a thought-provoking comment, a suggestion for further research, or a call to action based on your argument.

Remember, the introduction sets the stage, the body paragraphs build the argument, and the conclusion wraps it all up.

With practice, you’ll find that this go-to structure makes essay writing much easier and more effective.

Basic Essay Structure for Different Types of Essays

Writing essays becomes simpler when you understand the structure. Here, we’ll look at five common types: narrative, descriptive, expository, persuasive, and comparative essays. Each has unique characteristics and serves a specific purpose. I’ll also include an example of how to structure the main body for each type.

Narrative Essay

A narrative essay tells a story from the author’s perspective. It aims to engage the reader by making the story interesting and relatable.

Example Structure:

• Introduction : Set the scene and introduce the main character.
• Body Paragraph 1 : Describe the beginning of the story (setting, characters).
• Body Paragraph 2 : Describe the main event or conflict.
• Body Paragraph 3 : Describe the climax of the story.
• Conclusion : Describe the resolution and the lesson learned.

Descriptive Essay

A descriptive essay paints a picture with words. It aims to describe a person, place, object, or event so vividly that the reader can visualize it.

• Introduction : Introduce the subject you will describe.
• Body Paragraph 1 : Describe the subject using sight (what it looks like).
• Body Paragraph 2 : Describe the subject using sound (what it sounds like).
• Body Paragraph 3 : Describe the subject using smell, touch, and taste (if applicable).
• Conclusion : Summarize the main points and highlight the overall impression.

Expository Essay

An expository essay explains or informs. It provides a balanced analysis of a topic, using facts, statistics, and examples.

• Introduction : Present the topic and state the thesis.
• Body Paragraph 1 : Explain the first main idea with supporting facts and examples.
• Body Paragraph 2 : Explain the second main idea with supporting facts and examples.
• Body Paragraph 3 : Explain the third main idea with supporting facts and examples.
• Conclusion : Summarize the main points and restate the thesis.

Persuasive Essay

A persuasive essay aims to convince the reader to accept a particular viewpoint or take a specific action. It uses logic, reason, and emotion to build a compelling argument.

• Introduction : Introduce the topic and state your position.
• Body Paragraph 1 : Present the first supporting argument with evidence.
• Body Paragraph 2 : Present the second supporting argument with evidence.
• Body Paragraph 3 : Present the third supporting argument with evidence.
• Body Paragraph 4 : Address a counterargument and refute it.
• Conclusion : Summarize the arguments and reinforce your position.

Comparative Essay

A comparative essay examines the similarities and differences between two or more subjects. It helps the reader understand the subjects better by comparing them.

• Introduction : Introduce the subjects and state the basis for comparison.
• Body Paragraph 1 : Compare the first point of similarity or difference between the subjects.
• Body Paragraph 2 : Compare the second point of similarity or difference between the subjects.
• Body Paragraph 3 : Compare the third point of similarity or difference between the subjects.
• Conclusion : Summarize the comparisons and highlight the overall insights.

Now, you can effectively organize your essays and make your writing clear and engaging. Each type of essay has its unique features, so choose the one that best fits your topic and purpose.

How to Organize an Essay with Structural Transition Words

Using transitional words is like putting up road signs for your reader. These words guide them through your essay, making it easier to follow your thoughts and arguments. They help in creating a smooth flow, making your writing more engaging and coherent. Let’s dive into different types of transitional words and how they can be used effectively.

👋 Introduction to Body

When you transition from the introduction to the body of your essay, you need words that signal the beginning of your main discussion. These words help to seamlessly connect the introduction to the detailed points you will cover.

For instance, words like “ Firstly ,” “ To begin with ,” and “ Initially ” are perfect for starting your body paragraphs. They let the reader know that you are moving from the introductory context to the main points. For example, you might say, “Firstly, it’s important to understand the historical context of the issue.” Or, “To begin with, let’s explore the primary causes of the conflict.” These words set the stage for detailed analysis and help the reader transition smoothly from the general introduction to specific arguments.

➕ Adding Information

When you need to add more information or points to your argument, transitional words come in handy. These words indicate that there is more to say on the topic, building on what has already been mentioned.

Words like “ Furthermore ,” “ Moreover ,” and “ Additionally ” are great for adding information. For example, “Furthermore, recent studies support this claim,” or “Moreover, this approach has been widely adopted in several countries.” By using these words, you show that you are expanding on your previous points, making your argument more comprehensive and convincing.

✅ Providing Examples

To illustrate your points more clearly, providing examples is absolutely necessary. Transitional words help introduce these examples smoothly, showing the reader that you are giving concrete evidence to support your claims.

Examples of such words include “ For example ,” “ For instance ,” and “ Such as .” You might write, “For example, many schools have implemented this program successfully,” or “For instance, in the case of renewable energy, solar power has shown remarkable potential.” These words prepare the reader for specific details that back up your general statements, making your argument stronger.

☀️❄️ Contrasting Information

Sometimes, you need to present contrasting information to show different perspectives or to highlight an exception to the rule. Transitional words help indicate a shift from one idea to a contrasting one.

Words like “ However ,” “ On the other hand ,” and “ Conversely ” are ideal for this purpose. For example, “However, not all experts agree with this view,” or “On the other hand, there are significant challenges to this approach.” These words signal to the reader that you are about to present a different angle, helping them to understand the complexity of the issue.

🔀 Showing Cause and Effect

To explain the relationship between actions and outcomes, cause-and-effect transitional words are essential. They help you link causes to their effects clearly and logically.

Words such as “ Therefore ,” “ Consequently ,” and “ As a result ” are perfect for this. You might say, “Therefore, it is clear that immediate action is necessary,” or “Consequently, the policy had to be revised.” These words make it easy for the reader to follow the logical progression of your argument, showing how one idea leads to another.

📍 Summarizing/Concluding

In the conclusion of your essay, you need transitional words that help you summarize your main points and bring your argument to a close. These words signal to the reader that you are wrapping up your discussion.

Examples include “ In conclusion ,” “ To summarize ,” and “ Ultimately .” For example, “In conclusion, the evidence strongly supports the need for policy change,” or “To summarize, the key factors influencing this issue have been thoroughly examined.” These words help you succinctly tie together your main points and leave the reader with a clear understanding of your argument.

Tips for Writing a Structure of an Essay

Writing a well-structured essay is like building a strong bridge that connects your ideas seamlessly. Let’s dive into some tips that can help you create a clear and effective essay structure.

Think of an outline as your essay’s roadmap. Before you start writing, take some time to outline your main points. This will give you a clear direction and keep you on track. Start with your introduction, list out the key points you’ll cover in the body, and jot down ideas for your conclusion. Outlining helps you organize your thoughts and makes the writing process smoother.

Each paragraph in your essay should focus on one main idea. Begin with a topic sentence that clearly states this idea. The rest of the paragraph should provide evidence, examples, or explanations that support the topic sentence. This keeps your writing focused and makes it easier for the reader to follow your argument. For example, if you’re writing about the benefits of exercise, one paragraph might focus on physical health benefits, while another might discuss mental health improvements.

Transitions are the glue that holds your essay together. They help you move smoothly from one idea to the next, ensuring your essay flows well. Words like “Firstly,” “Additionally,” “However,” and “In conclusion” guide your reader through your essay. These transitions make your writing more coherent and help emphasize the relationships between your ideas.

A well-balanced essay is easy to read and understand. Make sure your paragraphs are roughly the same length and provide a balanced amount of information. Avoid cramming too much information into one paragraph or making another too short. Each paragraph should be clear, focused, and contribute to your overall argument. This balance keeps your essay well-organized and engaging.

Once you’ve finished writing, take the time to proofread your essay. Look for structural consistency: Are your paragraphs in a logical order? Do your transitions make sense? Is each paragraph focused on a single main idea? Proofreading helps you catch any inconsistencies or areas that might confuse your reader. It’s also a good time to check for clarity. Make sure your ideas are clearly expressed and easy to understand.

Writing a structured essay doesn’t have to be complicated. By outlining your essay, ensuring each paragraph has a clear main idea, using transitions, keeping paragraphs balanced, and proofreading for consistency and clarity, you can create an essay that is both engaging and easy to follow. Practice these tips, and you’ll become more confident in your essay writing skills. Happy writing!

How should I structure an essay?

Structuring an essay involves three main parts: the introduction, the body, and the conclusion. Start with an engaging introduction that includes a hook, background information, and a clear thesis statement. Then, develop your main ideas in body paragraphs, each starting with a topic sentence and supported by evidence. Finally, wrap up your essay with a conclusion that restates the thesis, summarizes key points, and leaves the reader with a final thought or call to action.

What are the 3 major parts of essay structure?

The three major parts of an essay structure are the introduction, body, and conclusion. The introduction sets the stage by introducing the topic and stating the thesis. The body is the main section where you develop your ideas and arguments, usually in several paragraphs. The conclusion ties everything together, restating the thesis and summarizing the main points, providing closure to the discussion.

What is the 5 point structure to an essay?

The 5 point structure to an essay includes:

• Introduction : Hook, background information, and thesis statement.
• Body Paragraph 1 : First main point with supporting evidence.
• Body Paragraph 2 : Second main point with supporting evidence.
• Body Paragraph 3 : Third main point with supporting evidence.
• Conclusion : Restate thesis, summarize key points, and final thought.

This structure helps organize your essay in a clear, logical manner, making it easier for the reader to follow and understand your argument.

What is an example of essay structure?

An example of an essay structure might look like this:

Introduction : “Education is essential for personal and societal growth. This essay will discuss the importance of education in developing critical thinking skills, promoting social equality, and fostering economic development.”

Body Paragraph 1 : “Firstly, education plays a crucial role in developing critical thinking skills. Students learn to analyze information, evaluate arguments, and solve problems creatively. For instance, critical thinking is emphasized in subjects like mathematics and science.”

Body Paragraph 2 : “Moreover, education promotes social equality by providing opportunities for all individuals, regardless of their background. Public schooling systems aim to offer equal access to quality education, helping to bridge the gap between different social classes.”

Body Paragraph 3 : “Finally, education fosters economic development by creating a skilled workforce. Educated individuals are more likely to find employment, contribute to innovation, and drive economic growth. For example, countries with higher education levels often have stronger economies.”

Conclusion : “In conclusion, education is vital for developing critical thinking skills, promoting social equality, and fostering economic development. Investing in education is essential for creating a better future for individuals and society as a whole.”

This structure ensures that your essay is well-organized and that each point is clearly presented and supported.

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How to Structure an Essay

Essay writing is a fundamental skill, a basic task, that is expected of those who choose to pursue their undergraduate and master’s degrees. It constitutes a key requirement for students to complete a given course credit. However, many students and early career researchers find themselves struggling with the challenge of organizing their thoughts into a coherent, engaging structure. This article is especially for those who see essay writing as a daunting task and face problems in presenting their work in an impactful way.  

Table of Contents

• Writing an essay: basic elements and some key principles  
• Essay structure template 
• Chronological structure 
• Problem-methods-solutions structure 
• Compare and contrast structures 
• Frequently asked questions on essay structure 

Read on as we delve into the basic elements of essay writing, outline key principles for organizing information, and cover some foundational features of writing essays.  

Writing an essay: basic elements and some key principles

Essays are written in a flowing and continuous pattern but with a structure of its own. An introduction, body and conclusion are integral to it. The key is to balance the amount and kind of information to be presented in each part. Various disciplines may have their own conventions or guidelines on the information to be provided in the introduction.  

A clear articulation of the context and background of the study is important, as is the definition of key terms and an outline of specific models or theories used. Readers also need to know the significance of the study and its implications for further research. Most importantly, the thesis or the main proposition should be clearly presented.  

The body of the essay is therefore organized into paragraphs that hold the main ideas and arguments and is presented and analyzed in a logical manner. Ideally, each paragraph of the body focuses on one main point or a distinct topic and must be supported by evidence and analysis. The concluding paragraph should bring back to the reader the key arguments, its significance and food for thought. It is best not to re-state all the points of the essay or introduce a new concept here. 

In other words, certain general guidelines help structure the information in the essay. The information must flow logically with the context or the background information presented in the introductory part of the essay. The arguments are built organically where each paragraph in the body of the essay deals with a different point, yet closely linked to the para preceding and following it. Importantly, when writing essays, early career researchers must be careful in ensuring that each piece of information relates to the main thesis and is a building block to the arguments. 

Essay structure template

• Introduction 
• Provide the context and share significance of the study 
• Clearly articulate the thesis statement 
• Body  
• Paragraph 1 consisting of the first main point, followed by supporting evidence and an analysis of the findings. Transitional words and phrases can be used to move to the next main point. 
• There can be as many paragraphs with the above-mentioned elements as there are points and arguments to support your thesis. 
• Conclusion  
• Bring in key ideas and discuss their significance and relevance 
• Call for action 
• References 

Essay structures

The structure of an essay can be determined by the kind of essay that is required.  

Chronological structure

Also known as the cause-and-effect approach, this is a straightforward way to structure an essay. In such essays, events are discussed sequentially, as they occurred from the earliest to the latest. A chronological structure is useful for discussing a series of events or processes such as historical analyses or narratives of events. The introduction should have the topic sentence. The body of the essay should follow a chorological progression with each para discussing a major aspect of that event with supporting evidence. It ends with a summarizing of the results of the events.  

Problem-methods-solutions structure

Where the essay focuses on a specific problem, the problem-methods-solutions structure can be used to organize the essay. This structure is ideal for essays that address complex issues. It starts with presenting the problem, the context, and thesis statement as introduction to the essay. The major part of the discussion which forms the body of the essay focuses on stating the problem and its significance, the author’s approach or methods adopted to address the problem along with its relevance, and accordingly proposing solution(s) to the identified problem. The concluding part offers a recap of the research problem, methods, and proposed solutions, emphasizing their significance and potential impact. 

Compare and contrast structures

This structure of essay writing is ideally used when two or more key subjects require a comparison of ideas, theories, or phenomena. The three crucial elements, introduction, body, and conclusion, remain the same. The introduction presents the context and the thesis statement. The body of the essay seeks to focus on and highlight differences between the subjects, supported by evidence and analysis. The conclusion is used to summarize the key points of comparison and contrast, offering insights into the significance of the analysis.  

Depending on how the subjects will be discussed, the body of the essay can be organized according to the block method or the alternating method. In the block method, one para discusses one subject and the next para the other subject. In the alternative method, both subjects are discussed in one para based on a particular topic or issue followed by the next para on another issue and so on.  

Frequently asked questions on essay structure

An essay structure serves as a framework for presenting ideas coherently and logically. It comprises three crucial elements: an introduction that communicates the context, topic, and thesis statement; the body focusing on the main points and arguments supported with appropriate evidence followed by its analysis; and a conclusion that ties together the main points and its importance .  

An essay structure well-defined essay structure enhances clarity, coherence, and readability, and is crucial for organizing ideas and arguments to effectively communicate key aspects of a chosen topic. It allows readers to better understand arguments presented and demonstrates the author’s ability to organize and present information systematically. 

Yes, while expert recommend following an essay structure, early career researchers may choose how best to adapt standard essay structures to communicate and share their research in an impactful and engaging way. However, do keep in mind that deviating too far from established structures can hinder comprehension and weaken the overall effectiveness of the essay,  By understanding the basic elements of essay writing and employing appropriate structures such as chronological, problem-methods-solutions, or compare and contrast, researchers can effectively organize their ideas and communicate their findings with clarity and precision. 

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How to structure an essay

(Last updated: 13 May 2021)

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This guide is for anyone looking to vastly improve their essay writing skills through better knowledge what is meant by good 'essay structure'.

Essay writing is a key component to academic success at every level. It is, essentially, the way in which people within the academic community communicate with each other. Thus, there are fundamental ways in which academics structure their work and formal ways of communicating what they have to say. Writing essays is not simply a hoop for students to jump through. The vast majority of instructors and professors also write essays at a professional level, and they do not ask of their students anything less than the standard that is asked of them.

Where too many students go wrong in writing their essays is in either failing to plan ahead (not giving sufficient, care, thought, or time to the process) or in not understanding the expectations of essay writing. Of these expectations, appropriate and effective essay structure is critical. Students often lose valuable marks by failing to structure their essays clearly and concisely to make the best of their ideas.

So how do you structure academic writing? What is the best essay structure format?

First, consider what an essay is . What is it supposed to do? At its core an essay is simply an argument . Now, by argument we don’t mean a slanging match between two angry people. Rather, we are talking about a formal argument. An idea or a claim, which is supported by logic and/or evidence.

Imagine the following scenario: you feel the time has come to approach your boss about getting a raise at work. Imagine yourself walking into your supervisor’s office and requesting that raise. Almost automatically, your mind formulates a rhetorical structure. There are effective and ineffective ways of asking of making such a request. The effective strategy will have a logic and an order. You will firstly claim that you deserve a raise. And you will give evidence to support why you deserve that raise. For example: you are a hard worker, you are never late, you have the admiration and respect of your colleagues, you have been offered another position elsewhere and you want the pay matched. And so on. And you would probably wrap up your discussion with an overview of of why giving you more money is important.

And that is fundamentally an essay. Every good essay has three basic parts: an introduction, a body, and a conclusion.

This simple guide will show you how to perfect your essay structure by clearly introducing and concluding your argument, and laying out your paragraphs coherently in between. Your essay writing can be dramatically improved overnight simply by using the correct essay structure, as explained below.

Where the essay starts

When you are writing an essay , every sentence and every paragraph is important. But there is something extra important about introductions. Just like going out on a date for the first time, you want the introduction to be just right, almost perfect. You want to put your best self forward and create a great first impression.

You should already know this, but most professors and instructors will start grading your work in their head as soon as they begin reading it. They will be sorting your essay, maybe not in terms of a grade, but most definitely in terms of strong/weak, interesting/dull, or effective/ineffective. And most will have some notion of where your essay falls on that scale before they even finish the introduction. It will be the rarest of markers who withholds judgement until the end. The introduction is something you absolutely must start strong.

Always develop an introduction that clearly sets out the aims of what you are about to write and, if applicable, refers to the subject under investigation. State what the essay will try to achieve and briefly mention some of the main points you will consider. The idea is to give the marker an overview of your argument, to show that your thought process is logical and coherent and that you have carefully thought the question through. Don’t try to go into any of your key points in depth in your introduction – they will each be covered by a full paragraph later on. If the question is an ‘either or’ or a ‘how far do you agree’ question, it is useful to set out both sides of the argument briefly in the introduction in preparation for exploring the two sides later in the essay.

Think of your introduction as a thumbnail picture of the whole essay. Anyone, but especially the marker, should know the essay subject and how you intend to prove or disprove it, just from having read just the introduction.

Take the following example:

You have been given this assignment: The main purpose of Gothic fiction is to break normal moral and social codes. Discuss.

A strong introduction should read something like this:

It is certainly true that many works of Gothic fiction manifest the transgression of normal moral and social codes as their major theme. Their emphasis on female sexuality, their breaking of the boundaries between life and death and their shocking displays of immoral religious characters would all suggest that this is indeed the case. However, it is also important to consider other major aspects of the genre that might be considered equally important in purpose, such as its fascination with the supernatural, its portrayal of artificial humanity and its satirical social attacks. This essay will explore these conflicting purposes with reference to several different Gothic texts to discover what might be best described as the ‘main’ purpose of the genre.

Reread that paragraph. Does it tell you what the topic of the essay is? What the point is? What the essay plans to do? Now, without reading think about just the size of that paragraph. If a marker were to see an introduction that were any less than that they would automatically know, without even reading a word, that the topic was not going to be well introduced. That is not to suggest you simply fill up the paragraph, but that a certain amount of information in the introduction is expected.

It is worth pointing out that in a much longer essay an introduction does not need to be limited to a single paragraph. Generally, however, it will be.

The body of your essay

The second part of the essay is the body. This is the longest part of the essay. In general, a short essay will have at least three full paragraphs; a long essay considerably more.

Each paragraph is a point that you want to make that relates to the topic. So, going back to the ‘give me more money’ example from earlier, each reason you have for deserving a raise should be a separate paragraph, and that paragraph is an elaboration on that claim.

Paragraphs, like the essay overall, also have an expected structure. You should start a new paragraph for each major new idea within your essay, to clearly show the examiner the structure of your argument. Each paragraph should begin with a signpost sentence that sets out the main point you are going to explore in that section. It is sometimes helpful to refer back to the title of the essay in the signpost sentence, to remind the examiner of the relevance of your point. Essay writing becomes much easier for you too this way, as you remind yourself exactly what you are focusing on each step of the way.

Here's a signpost sentence example: One important way in which Gothic fiction transgresses normal moral and social codes is in its portrayal of the female heroine.

Further sentences in this paragraph would then go on to expand and back up your point in greater detail and with relevant examples. The paragraph should not contain any sentences that are not directly related to the issue set out in the signpost sentence. So you are writing an essay that clearly separates its ideas into structured sections. Going back to the wage-raise example: in the middle of talking about how punctual you are, would you start talking about how you are a good colleague, then about that client you impressed, and then talk about your punctuality again? Of course not. The same rules apply: each paragraph deals with one idea, one subject.

The end of your essay

The last section of your essay is the conclusion. In general, this will also be a single paragraph in shorter essays, but can go on to two or three for slightly longer discussions.

Every well-structured essay ends with a conclusion . Its purpose is to summarise the main points of your argument and, if appropriate, to draw a final decision or judgement about the issues you have been discussing. Sometimes, conclusions attempt to connect the essay to broader issues or areas of further study.

It is important not to introduce any new ideas in the conclusion – it is simply a reminder of what your essay has already covered. It may be useful again to refer back to the title in the conclusion to make it very clear to the examiner that you have thoroughly answered the question at hand. Make sure you remind them of your argument by very concisely touching on each key point.

Here an example of an essay conclusion:

Overall, whilst it is certainly true that the characters, plots and settings of Gothic fiction seem firmly intended to break normal moral and social codes, the great incidence within the genre of the depiction of the supernatural, and in particular its insistent reference to social injustice and hypocrisy might suggest that in fact its main purpose was the criticism and reform of society.

But where do I start???

Now you should have a solid grasp of a typical essay structure but might not know how to actually begin structuring your essay. Everyone works differently. Some people have no trouble thinking everything out in their head, or putting together a plan, and starting with the introduction and finishing with the conclusion.

One surefire way to make your life easier is to, in the first instance, write out an essay plan . Jotting down a plan where you create a structure, which details what your essay will cover, will save you time in the long run - so we highly recommend you do this!

When planning your essay structure, we suggest writing from the inside out and doing the body paragraphs first. Since each body paragraph is a main idea, then once you know what your main ideas are, these should come fairly easily. Then the introduction and conclusion after that.

If you're really struggling - or just curious - you can also look into the Essay Writing Service from ourselves here at Oxbridge Essays. We can put together a comprehensive essay plan for you, which maps out your essay and outlines the key points in advance, and in turn makes the writing process much easier.

One final thought to remember: good essays are not written, they are rewritten . Always go over your first draft and look for ways to improve it before handing it in.

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A comprehensive guide on writing essays.

Are you struggling with writing essays and looking for guidance on how to improve your skills? Writing essays is a crucial skill that every student needs to master, whether it’s for academic purposes or professional development. A well-written essay can make a significant impact on your grades and your overall writing ability.

In this comprehensive guide, we will provide you with valuable tips and techniques to help you enhance your essay writing skills and produce high-quality essays that will impress your readers. From understanding the essay structure to mastering the art of researching and citing sources, we’ve got you covered with practical advice and strategies to help you become a more effective and confident writer.

Understanding the Essay Structure

When writing an essay, it’s essential to understand the basic structure that will help you organize your ideas coherently and effectively convey your message to the reader. Here is a breakdown of the typical essay structure:

By following this traditional structure, you can ensure that your essay is well-organized and easy to follow, helping you to communicate your ideas effectively and persuasively.

Tips for Writing Effective Essays

When it comes to writing essays, there are several tips that can help you craft a compelling and effective piece. Here are some key tips to keep in mind:

Researching the Topic Thoroughly

Research is a crucial step in writing a successful essay. To ensure you have a strong understanding of your topic, it is important to thoroughly research the subject matter. Here are some tips on how to research effectively:

Techniques for Improving Essay Writing

Improving your essay writing skills requires practice, dedication, and a willingness to learn. Here are some techniques to help you enhance your writing:

1. Plan your essay:

Before you start writing, take the time to plan your essay. This includes outlining your main points, organizing your ideas, and creating a clear structure for your essay.

2. Research effectively:

Ensure you conduct thorough research before writing your essay. Use reliable sources and gather relevant information that supports your arguments.

3. Use clear and concise language:

Focus on expressing your ideas in a clear and concise manner. Avoid using unnecessary words or jargon that may confuse your readers.

4. Proofread and edit:

Always proofread your essay before submitting it. Check for grammar, punctuation, and spelling errors, and make sure your ideas flow logically.

5. Seek feedback:

Ask for feedback from peers, teachers, or professionals to get different perspectives on your writing. Use the feedback to improve your essay writing skills.

By implementing these techniques and practicing regularly, you can enhance your essay writing abilities and produce high-quality essays.

Developing a Strong Thesis Statement

When writing an essay, one of the most crucial elements is the thesis statement. A strong thesis statement clearly expresses the main idea or argument of your essay and provides a roadmap for the reader to follow. To develop a strong thesis statement, consider the following tips:

1. Be specific: Your thesis statement should be concise and specific, clearly stating the main point you will be making in your essay.

2. Take a stand: A good thesis statement takes a clear position on a topic and expresses your perspective or argument.

3. Make it arguable: Avoid stating obvious facts in your thesis. Instead, focus on a debatable claim that can be supported with evidence.

4. Provide a roadmap: Your thesis statement should give the reader an idea of the structure of your essay and the points you will be discussing.

5. Revise and refine: Don’t be afraid to revise your thesis statement as you write and refine your arguments. Your thesis may evolve as you explore your topic further.

By following these tips, you can develop a strong thesis statement that will guide your essay and engage your reader from the beginning.

Common Mistakes to Avoid in Essay Writing

Essay writing can be a challenging task, but it’s important to avoid some common mistakes that can affect the quality of your work. Here are some common pitfalls to watch out for:

1. Lack of clarity: Make sure your essay is clear and easy to understand. Avoid using overly complex language or jargon that might confuse your readers.

2. Lack of structure: Your essay should have a clear introduction, body, and conclusion. Make sure your ideas flow logically and cohesively.

3. Plagiarism: Always cite your sources properly to avoid plagiarism. Use quotation marks for direct quotes and provide references for any information you use from external sources.

4. Lack of evidence: Support your arguments with evidence and examples to make your points more convincing. Avoid making unsupported claims or assumptions.

5. Lack of proofreading: Always proofread your essay before submitting it. Look out for spelling and grammatical errors, as well as inconsistencies in your argument.

By avoiding these common mistakes, you can improve the quality of your essays and make a stronger impact on your readers.

Proper Citation and Referencing

Citing your sources is an essential part of academic writing. It shows that you have done your research and helps give credibility to your essay. Whenever you use someone else’s ideas or information in your essay, you must acknowledge the original source through proper citation.

There are different citation styles such as APA, MLA, Chicago, and Harvard. Make sure to follow the guidelines of the specific citation style required by your instructor or publication. Each citation style has its own rules for how to format citations in the text and in the reference list at the end of the essay.

Referencing is equally important as citation. At the end of your essay, you should include a list of all the sources you cited in your essay. This list is called a reference list or bibliography , depending on the citation style you are using. Double-check that your references are accurate and complete.

Plagiarism is a serious academic offense and can have severe consequences. Always make sure to properly cite and reference your sources to avoid plagiarism. When in doubt, it is better to overcite than to risk being accused of plagiarism.

Tools and Resources for Essay Writers

Writing essays can be a challenging task, but with the help of various tools and resources, the process can become much easier and more efficient. Here are some essential tools and resources that every essay writer should have in their arsenal:

1. Grammarly: Grammarly is a powerful writing tool that helps to improve your writing skills by checking for grammar, punctuation, and spelling errors. It also provides suggestions for improving sentence structure and style.

2. Thesaurus.com: Thesaurus.com is a great resource for finding synonyms and antonyms to enhance your vocabulary and make your writing more engaging and varied.

3. Purdue Owl: Purdue Owl is an online writing lab that provides comprehensive writing resources, including tips for developing strong thesis statements, organizing your ideas, and formatting your essays according to different citation styles.

4. Hemingway Editor: Hemingway Editor is a tool that helps you simplify your writing and make it clearer and more concise. It highlights complex sentences, passive voice, and adverbs, making it easier for you to revise and edit your work.

5. Google Scholar: Google Scholar is a search engine that helps you find scholarly articles and academic papers on your essay topic. It’s a valuable resource for conducting research and finding sources to support your arguments.

By utilizing these tools and resources, you can enhance your writing skills, improve the quality of your essays, and ultimately become a more effective essay writer.

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How to Write an Essay in MLA Format | For Students

Starting from when I entered high school, the importance of submitting assignments in a particular format became a top priority. I quickly realized the significance of adhering to these guidelines, as they remained essential throughout my academic journey. You never know when the need for proper formatting will arise. At first, it may seem overwhelming, but in this simple guide, I'll show you how to write an essay in MLA format [For Students].

When is MLA format used?

MLA format is created by the Modern Language Association which is a standardized way to format academic papers and cite sources. It’s mainly used for subjects in the humanities, like literature, philosophy, and the arts. Unlike APA or Chicago formats, which are used for social sciences and history, MLA puts a strong emphasis on the authorship of sources.

Most students will need to use MLA format at some point, especially in humanities courses. It’s essential for essays, research papers, and other assignments in these subjects.

General Guidelines/ Rules of MLA Formatting

The first step to learning how to write an essay in MLA format for students is to get familiar with the general guidelines. It's all about following the rules to get your paper formatted in the MLA style:

Margins and Font:

Set 1-inch margins on all sides.

Choose a readable font such as Times New Roman, 12-point size.

Double-space the entire document, including block quotes (quotes longer than four lines), notes, and the works cited page.

Paragraph Indentation:

Indent the first line of each paragraph by 0.5 inches (press Tab key once).

Punctuation:

Utilize standard punctuation marks and maintain consistency with punctuation, italics, and quotation marks throughout your paper.

Quotations:

Use double quotation marks (" ") for direct quotes.

For quotes longer than four lines, format as a block quote: start on a new line, indent 0.5 inches from the left margin (without quotation marks), and keep double-spacing.

Here is an essay MLA format template for your reference:

How to Set up MLA Format Essay [Step-by-Step]

So we have seen the general guidelines in the above example and also saw an essay MLA format example/sample showing what our final MLA format will look like. However, going through guidelines is not enough when you're learning how to write an essay in MLA format in Word or PDF format. You need a professional writing software that not only provides the tools but also allows you to use them easily.

Therefore, I will be using WPS Writer as my partner in writing an essay in MLA format, and I would recommend students to download WPS Writer from their website so that you can easily follow this guide. And yes, it is completely free. So let's begin formatting an essay to MLA format in WPS Writer:

1. Page Margins

So the first step is to ensure that our page margins are set to 1 inch on every side. Setting the margins first would help you avoid any formatting errors if you do this at a later stage. To set page margins in WPS Writer:

Step 1: Open WPS Writer and visit the “Page Layout” tab in the toolbar.

Step 2: Find the Page Margin options on the far left of the Page Layout ribbon.

Step 3: Set all the margin fields—top, bottom, left, and right—to 1 inch.

2. Line Spacing

Next, we need to ensure that the line spacing is set to double spacing . This helps improve readability and ensures your paper meets MLA formatting standards. To set double line spacing in WPS Writer:

Step 1: In WPS Writer, go to the “Home” tab in the toolbar.

Step 2: Find and click the “Line Spacing” option in the Home ribbon.

Step 3: In the Line Spacing drop-down, click on More.

Step 4: The Paragraph window will pop up. Visit the Spacing section and in the Line Spacing field, select “Double”.

Step 5: After that, click on OK to exit the Paragraph window.

Note: We can also use the keyboard shortcut CTRL + 2 to quickly change the line spacing to double.

3. Header- In the Upper-Left Corner

After setting the page settings, let's move on to the content of the essay, starting with the header in the following order:

Student's Name

Professor's Name

Course and Course Code

Due Date in the format DD Month, Year

Step 1: Follow the order to enter the header into your essay.

Step 2: To make the Header left aligned, visit the Home tab and then click on the “Align Text Left” icon.

Step 3: After entering the header, make sure the Font is set to "Times New Roman" in the Fonts field in the Home ribbon.

Step 4: After the font, the font size should also be set to "12." Therefore, make the change in the "Font Size" field in the Home ribbon.

4. Last Name & Page Numbers- In the Upper-Right Corner

MLA Format requires a running header that includes your last name along with the page number on the top right corner of every page. Let's see how we can create our running header for the MLA Format:

Step 1: Double-click on the Header area to open the Header/Footer in WPS Writer.

Step 2: Now type your last name and set its alignment to right by clicking on the “Align Text Right” icon in the Home ribbon.

Step 3: To add the page number, click on the "Page Number" option in the Header/Footer ribbon and select the "Header right" option to insert a page number in the right corner.

Once the running header has been added, it is important to set the font size of the running header to 12 and the font to "Times New Roman".

Step 4: Simply select your running header and click on the Home tab.

Step 5: In the Home tab, change the Font to "Times New Roman" in the Fonts field.

Step 6: To change the font size, in the Home ribbon, enter "12" in the Font size field.

The last setting for the running header is to set the header margin to "0.5 inches":

Step 7: Head over to the Header/Footer tab.

Step 8: In the Header/Footer ribbon, enter "0.5 in" in the “Header Height” field to set the header margin to 0.5 inches.

5. Title of Essay- On the Line Below the Date

After the header and running header, let's begin our essay with the title of our essay. Remember the rules:

The title should be center aligned.

The title should not be bolded, italicized, or placed in quotation marks unless it includes the title of a source (e.g., a book or movie title).

Step 1: Insert the title right below the header and visit the Home tab.

Step 2: In the Home ribbon, click on the “Center” icon to center align the title.

6. Headings and Subheadings- Into Sections

Headings and subheadings are important as they give reference to the reader. There are no hard and fast rules for their formatting, except that they need to be center aligned. You can set the font style to bold to help the reader distinguish them.

Step 1: Enter your heading below the title of the essay and visit the Home tab.

Step 2: In the Home ribbon, click on “Center” to align the heading to the center.

Step 3: To change the font style to bold, in the Home ribbon, click on the “Bold” icon right below the font field.

7. In-text Citation

In MLA format, in-text citations use parenthetical references to indicate quotes or ideas from another author. Here's a step-by-step guide on how to do in-text citations:

Step 1: When you quote or paraphrase from a source, use the author's last name and the page number where the information is found.

Step 2:  After the quote or paraphrase, place the citation in parentheses. The citation should include the author's last name followed by the page number without a comma between them.

Step 3: The parenthetical citation should be placed before the period at the end of the sentence.

8. Works Cited Page

Finally, you will need to cite all the sources you took assistance from in writing your paper. Follow the following steps to understand how to cite your work in MLA format.

Step 1: Use a page break to start a fresh new page with the title "Works Cited." The heading "Works Cited" will follow similar heading guidelines as before.

Step 2: Double-space all entries and do not add extra spaces between entries.

Step 3: Use a hanging indent for each entry. The first line of each citation is flush with the left margin, and subsequent lines are indented by 0.5 inches simply using the “Tab” key..

Step 4: List entries in alphabetical order by the author's last name. If a work has no author, alphabetize it by the first significant word in the title.

Step 5: Format your sources as mentioned below for respective source medium:

Books Format: Author's Last Name, First Name. Title of Book. Publisher, Year of Publication.

Articles in Journals Format: Author's Last Name, First Name. "Title of Article." Title of Journal, vol. number, no. number, Year, pages.

Websites Format: Author's Last Name, First Name (if available). "Title of Webpage." Title of Website, Publisher, Date of Publication, URL.

Bonus Tips: How to Convert Word to PDF without losing Format

Once you finish writing your essay, the next challenge is converting it from Microsoft Word to PDF without losing formatting. This can be frustrating because sometimes the formatting doesn't stay the same.

To avoid this issue, use WPS Office . It offers strong PDF features and keeps APA and MLA formatting intact. On the other hand, Microsoft Word 365, though widely used, may occasionally struggle to keep formatting consistent when converting to PDF. It's important to choose tools that prioritize preserving the look and structure of your academic work.

Here is how you can use WPS PDF to convert your essay documents to PDF without compromising on the quality:

Step 1: On WPS Writer, click on the Menu button on the top left corner of the screen.

Step 2: Now simply click on the “Export to PDF” option in the Menu.

Step 3: The Export to PDF window will open. Here, you can alter a few settings such as the output path. After going through the settings, simply click on Export to PDF to save the essay document as a PDF.

FAQs about writing an essay in MLA format

1. how to cite an image in mla.

To cite an image in MLA style, you need to format the citation based on where the image was viewed. For online images, the citation should follow this structure:

MLA format:

Creator’s last name, First name. “Image Title” or Description of the image. Website Name in italics, Day Month Year, URL.

MLA Works Cited entry:

Smith, Jamie. “Vintage Cars.” Travel With Us, 15 Mar. 2023, www.travelwithus.com/vintage-cars.

MLA in-text citation:

(Smith) Note: If you discover an image through a search engine such as Google, ensure that you credit and link to the website that hosts the image, rather than the search engine.

2. Do I need to include a title page in my MLA essay?

In most instances, an MLA-formatted essay does not necessitate a separate title page unless instructed otherwise by your instructor. Instead, begin your essay with a header and center the title on the subsequent line.

3. How to Cite a Website in MLA?

To cite a website in MLA style, you should include the author’s name (if known), the title of the page in quotation marks, the name of the website in italics, the publication date, and the URL without "https://". If the identity of the author is not known, start with the title of the page. If the publication date is unavailable or if there's a possibility of content modifications, include an access date at the end.

Author’s last name, First name. “Title of Page.” Website Name, Day Month Year, URL.

Adams, John. "Explore with us." Random Discoveries, 15 Sept. 2023, www.randomdiscoveries.com/explore-with-us.

Write Your Essays in Comfort With WPS Office

It’s so easy! The great thing about MLA format is that it’s not vastly different from APA and Chicago formats. There are only a few distinctions, and once you learn how to write an essay in MLA format [For Students], everything will become much easier for your academic life. Also, WPS Office is an incredibly handy tool for students. Not only can you format comfortably, but it’s also designed to be student-friendly, avoiding complex procedures. Simple yet advanced, and best of all, free. Get WPS Office today and write essays with ease and comfort!

• 1. How to Do Hanging Indent in Word for Your Essay? [For Students]
• 2. How to Make MLA Format Heading and Header in WPS Office (Step-by-Step)
• 3. Top 10 Best Introduce Yourself Essay Sample Words
• 4. How to Remove Page Breaks in Word for Your Essay? [For Students]
• 5. How to Use Track Changes in Word for Your Essay? [For Students]
• 6. How to Double Space in Word for Your Essay: A Guide for Students

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What is an Appendix in a Research Paper? | Aithor

What is an appendix in a research paper?

An appendix is a supplementary section at the end of a research paper after the list of references. It contains more information that helps explain the main ideas in the paper. It's not needed in the main part because it would make the paper too long or go “off-topic." The appendix gives readers more details to help them understand the research better without making the main argument hard to follow.

The length of an appendix can differ depending on what kind of research it is and how much extra information there is. But it shouldn't be more than 10-15% of the total number of pages. An appendix document can have many types of information, like tables, figures, charts, graphs, images, interview notes, survey questions, or anything else that helps support the research findings.

What type of information does a research paper appendix include?

A research paper appendix can include a wide range of supporting materials, such as:

• Raw data sets or statistical tables that are too extensive for the main text
• Detailed descriptions of research methodologies, instruments, or protocols
• Interview transcripts or survey questionnaires
• Correspondence with research participants or collaborators
• Visual aids, such as graphs, charts, images, or diagrams
• Glossaries or abbreviation lists
• Copies of relevant documents, such as consent forms or legal agreements

The specific content of an appendix depends on the nature of the research and the requirements of the academic discipline or publication venue.

How to structure an appendix

When considering how to write an appendix, follow these guidelines:

• Place the appendix after the references list, starting on a new page
• Use a clear and descriptive title, such as "Appendix A: Survey Questionnaire"
• Organize the content logically and label each item systematically (e.g., Table A1, Figure B2)
• Refer to each appendix item in the main text using parenthetical citations (e.g., "(see Appendix A)")
• Use consistent formatting throughout the appendix, following the style guide requirements (e.g., APA, MLA, and Chicago)

Remember, the goal is to make it easy for readers to find and understand the extra information without removing the main points you're making.

General rules for completing appendices

In addition to the basic structure, there are some general rules to follow when making appendices. The exact rules might be a little different depending on the citation style you're using, but here are some common ones:

Appendix APA format

The APA format is the most popular at colleges and universities. When using APA format for your appendices, there are a few specific rules to keep in mind:

• Use the heading "Appendix" followed by a letter (A, B, C) for each distinct appendix
• Center the appendix title beneath the heading
• Arrange appendices in the order they are mentioned in the main text
• Start each appendix on a new page, regardless of its length
• Use double spacing and indent the first line of each paragraph
• Include page numbers and place the appendix after the references list

Appendix MLA format

The rules for MLA format are similar to APA, but the difference is that the MLA appendix should be placed before the list of references. Here are some requirements for MLA format:

• Place the appendix before the references list
• Use the heading "Appendix," followed by a letter for each distinct appendix
• Start each appendix on a new page
• Use double spacing and a hanging indent for each entry
• Italicize titles of standalone sources (e.g., books, websites)

Appendix Chicago style

Used when assigned academic papers on History. Here are some requirements for Chicago style:

• Use the plural heading "Appendices" for multiple appendices
• Use 12-point Times New Roman font
• Number pages in the top right corner, starting with "Page 1"
• Omit the page number on the title page
• Place appendices before the bibliography

No matter which citation style you use, the most important thing is to be consistent and clear when labeling and referencing your appendices.

How do I refer to an appendix?

To refer to an appendix in the main text, follow these guidelines:

• Mention each appendix at least once in the text, using a parenthetical citation (e.g., "(see Appendix A)")
• Capitalize "Appendix" when referring to a specific appendix (e.g., "As shown in Appendix B")
• Use lowercase when referring to appendices in general (e.g., "The appendices contain additional data")
• Be consistent in your references throughout the paper

For example:

• "The survey questionnaire (see Appendix A ) was distributed to 100 participants."
• " Figure B3 in Appendix B illustrates the relationship between variables X and Y."
• "More information on the parallel between both eras can be found in Appendix C ."

Remember to consult your chosen style guide for specific formatting requirements and guidelines on how to write an appendix and appendix format.

When you're writing a research paper, an appendix can be a helpful way to provide more information supporting your paper's main ideas. By following some simple rules for organizing and mentioning appendices, you can share extra data and back up your points without making the main part of your paper too long or hard to understand.

Want to make writing your research paper as prestigious as possible? Aithor can help make your life easier! This helpful essay-writing tool uses AI to assist you in creating academic and creative works that meet your specific needs in just a short time.

Give Aithor a try today and see how it can help make writing your academic papers a better experience!

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UPSC Essays Simplified: Structure and Flow of a good essay– the third step

How to build a 'structure and flow' in a good essay our expert takes you through the third stage of writing an essay in upsc essentials' new series. don't miss the essay exercise towards the end of the article..

How to write essays for UPSC Civil Services Exams?   This is one of the most popular questions among aspirants. In UPSC Essentials’ special series  UPSC Essays Simplified , we take you through various steps of writing a good essay. While there is no set formula or fixed criteria prescribed,  Manas Srivastava  talks to  Ravi Kapoor , our expert, in this new series who guides the aspirants with a simplified framework on how to write a good essay. Don’t miss  ‘The Essay Exercise’  towards the end of the article.

Ravi Kapoor focuses on the following steps of pre-writing and writing stages which will help aspirants to write a ‘good essay’.

Today, we will focus on Step 3. 

About our Expert:   Ravi Kapoor IRS (R) , has now ditched his coveted rank of deputy commissioner and has offered free quality mentorship to UPSC aspirants, drawing upon his ten years of experience to create customised and productive curriculum. Through a free mentorship programme, he integrates tailored educational materials, psychological principles, visual learning techniques, and a strong emphasis on mental well-being into his teaching skills granting aspirants a chance to learn from his expertise.

How to have a ‘Structure and Flow’ in a good essay?

Everyone knows that an essay should be broken down into an introduction, body and conclusion. But what is written inside these 3 components and HOW it is written makes the difference between an essay fetching average or excellent scores.

Structuring and flow refer to the organisation of the essay and your ideas therein.

A good structure is a way of organising information that fits well with the essay topic and the ideas you wish to present in your arguments such that the reader can make sense of the entire write-up without much effort.

Good flow refers to how your arguments and counterarguments connect from one to another such that the reader finds it logically connected and easy to comprehend.

An essay without these elements will appear to be disorganized, jargoned, hard to comprehend and overall, complicated.

Contrary to popular belief, flow and structure are not subjective writing skills that are inborn in good writers but can be learned and improved upon. What follows is a series of structuring techniques that will help you choose the best one for any essay topic you may encounter.

What are different types of structures? 

1. 2 side face-off:.

This is the oldest trick in the book. While writing the body of the essay, you divide it into arguments and counterarguments. In other words, you compare one side of the debate with the other.

For example:

“Thinking is like a game; it does not begin unless there is an opposite team”

The body of the essay can be divided into 2 parts- one agreeing with the statement and one disagreeing with it as follows:

Thinking is reciprocal as thought builds on other thoughts. The Socratic method, championed by Socrates, is a testament to this idea. Socrates would go around Athens spreading knowledge by asking questions and inciting dialogue which would lead the conversationist to the point of realization about something new and profound.

Similarly, when Einstein said he was standing on the shoulders of giants, he meant that his theory of relativity was built using many ideas developed by mathematicians and physicists who came before him.

The reciprocal nature of thought helps to improve it by allowing dissent and counterarguments much like a game of chess. An example is the Case study pioneered by Harvard Business School wherein one case is debated upon in detail considering various strategies before arriving at the optimal one.

While dissent and opposition can lead to many a good idea, there are more ways for thought to develop into ideas within human consciousness. Human cognition is too complex to be restricted to one mode of thinking. A Case in point is intuitive or creative thinking that can arise spontaneously without the interlocking of two human intelligences.

For instance, creative geniuses often hit upon their best ideas out of the blue in ‘Eureka’ moments that seem to arise from within the subconscious mind without the presence of an opponent.

Another example is ‘thought-experiments’ used by philosophers that are designed to be introspective exercises that one engages with, with oneself. Thought experiments are indispensable tools for philosophers and physicists to offer insight into a profound problem of logic and metaphysics.

2.Dimensional analysis:

It has become fashionable to break the essay topic into various dimensions such as Social, Cultural, Historical, Economic etc. But this is not a one-size-fits-all method and may or may not work with every essay topic.

“Education is what remains after one has forgotten what one has learned in the school…”

While this topic can be written about based on various dimensions such as economic, historical, social etc, it is not necessarily the best structure for it.

Instead, a better way to present the information in this essay topic would have a mix of chronology and analysis in the following way-

We are blank slates when we are born onto which society and culture leave their imprint. Through childhood and adolescence, the education system seeks to put us through a treadmill of learning, hoping for a fully functional human to emerge at the end. Sadly, the world that awaits a young adult after school is often very different from what the education system has imparted.

Memorization, exams, grades and NCERT books amount to nothing in a world driven by start-ups, ChatGPT and Social Media influencers…. Please note that the dimensions such as social, cultural and historical factors can also be mentioned in the body of the essay as supporting content ideas.

In most essay topics, these dimensions are best used to describe the reasons and impact of an issue or debate instead of as just a structure.

3. Timeline and Chronology

Some essay topics are uniquely suited for a chronological structure wherein you take the reader through a historical journey or evolution such as :

“History is a series of victories won by the scientific man over the romantic man”

This topic is about the ancient debate between rationality and idealism. To write well about it, you would have to trace the through major historical intellectual movements such as the Scientific Revolution, the Dark Ages, the Renaissance, etc. While doing so, you could mention how each stage was relevant for rational thinking versus idealism with relevant examples.

While you do so chronologically, remember to also present a balanced approach in your arguments- On every stage, you can mention how rational thinking and idealism have been in a tight relationship, but both have been an integral part of human consciousness representing creativity and logic. You may also mention how this to and fro has enriched human civilisation and led to the development of science and art.

4. Anecdotes and stories

Many students like to start their essays with an anecdote- a personal story or an imaginary one about characters highlighting the debate presented in the essay topic. While this is not a bad strategy, it requires a fair amount of creative writing ability to pull off properly. It is also important to mention that anecdotes are not the most suitable vehicle to comprehensively deal with the essay topic as not all arguments can easily fit into a personal story.

An example of a good use of anecdotal structure is:

“Not all who wander are lost”

About 2000 years ago, a wandering prince changed the world by questioning the most profound and radical assumptions about human existence. Prince Siddhartha was bathed in luxury and wanted for nothing. But when we saw the naked reality of the world and all its suffering, he could not silence his mind to the questions that we take for granted- why is there suffering and death? If suffering is inevitable then what is the point of life? Is there peace to be found or are we doomed to suffer in this life?

He wandered for years in search of answers, as lost as a soul can be. But in the end, it was his wandering that changed the world forever. When he became the Buddha, he not only found himself but saved millions of others from being lost themselves….

Anecdotes can make for good hooks or introductions to an essay but may not serve well to cover the entire body of the essay.

The Essay Exercise

Important points to note: 

• You can choose which type of structure to use- there is no single best choice.
• You may use more than 1 type of structure.
• You may use structures for introduction, body and conclusion.

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Manas Srivastava is currently working as Deputy Copy Editor with The Indian Express (digital) and majorly writes for UPSC-related projects leading a unique initiative known as UPSC Essentials. In the past, Manas has represented India at the G-20 Youth Summit in Mexico. He is a former member of the Youth Council, GOI. A two-time topper/gold medallist in History (both in graduation and post-graduation) from Delhi University, he has mentored and taught UPSC aspirants for more than four years. His diverse role in The Indian Express consists of writing, editing, anchoring/ hosting, interviewing experts, and curating and simplifying news for the benefit of students. He hosts the YouTube talk show called ‘Art and Culture with Devdutt Pattanaik’ and a LIVE series on Instagram and YouTube called ‘You Ask We Answer’.His talks on ‘How to read a newspaper’ focus on newspaper reading as an essential habit for students. His articles and videos aim at finding solutions to the general queries of students and hence he believes in being students' editor, preparing them not just for any exam but helping them to become informed citizens. This is where he makes his teaching profession meet journalism. He is also currently working on a monthly magazine for UPSC Aspirants. He is a recipient of the Dip Chand Memorial Award, the Lala Ram Mohan Prize and Prof. Papiya Ghosh Memorial Prize for academic excellence. He was also awarded the University’s Post-Graduate Scholarship for pursuing M.A. in History where he chose to specialise in Ancient India due to his keen interest in Archaeology. He has also successfully completed a Certificate course on Women’s Studies by the Women’s Studies Development Centre, DU. As a part of N.S.S in the past, Manas has worked with national and international organisations and has shown keen interest and active participation in Social Service. He has led and been a part of projects involving areas such as gender sensitisation, persons with disability, helping slum dwellers, environment, adopting our heritage programme. He has also presented a case study on ‘Psychological stress among students’ at ICSQCC- Sri Lanka. As a compere for seminars and other events he likes to keep his orating hobby alive. His interests also lie in International Relations, Governance, Social issues, Essays and poetry. ... Read More

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PTE Essay Writing Preparation Techniques & Samples

Writing an essay can be challenging for the PTE. This applies especially to those who are new to this test. However, there are some proven methods that could help you achieve a high score in the essay part of the test. Use these strategies and tips to develop your writing skills and create an essay that will wow examiners.

This guide contains vital hints and tactics which will enhance your written communication abilities and equip you for success during the examination.

Table of Contents

Pte writing section, 1. carefully read through prompt, 2. come up with ideas brainstorm, 3. create an outline, 4. write a draft, 5. validate your claims, 6. use right vocabulary, 7. sentence variation, 8. edit and proofread, frequently asked questions.

The PTE writing section tests one’s ability to communicate effectively and accurately in written English. It consists of two parts: an essay and a set of multiple-choice questions.

In the essay task, you must respond to a point of view or opinion by explaining where you stand on it with reasons given why; also examples where necessary should be provided too while still making sure all thoughts are connected together using appropriate sentence structures throughout your response so as not confuse readership any further than is necessary . The length requirement here ranges between 200-300 words long.

Multiple choice items come after essays require selecting correct words/phrases out from list provided as options; sometimes they might need filling up blanks, re-ordering paragraphs or completing sentences among others – all meant for checking one’s grammar knowledge together with vocabulary too within this particular area hence its name being multiple choices .

You will be judged based on how accurate your grammar/spelling is; clarity/effectiveness through writing; development/organization when presenting ideas along with opinions expressed plus relevant content towards given tasks as well as sticking within word limits among other things expected from candidates like adhering strictly according instructions given throughout entire paper thus ensuring best possible scores achieved indeed!

Also Read: Books for PTE Preparation

Proven techniques to score high on the essay

Getting a high score in PTE’s Essay Section is possible if you prepare well enough. Here are some tried-and-tested ways of getting maximum points awarded by examiners:

Make sure to read through the prompt thoroughly before you even begin writing your essay. Go through it several times so that there is no part of it which will escape your attention. This way, you will understand all that is required of you according to the question or topic being dealt with.

Take note of any keywords or key points while reading and think about how they should structure their answers in order to meet what has been asked for based on these words too . You can jot them down therefore enabling easy reference during composition process later on.

Sit down with a pen and paper after going through the question; then start generating possible solutions or answers depending on prompts given. Think deeply about main ideas around particular topic at hand as well related subtopics where necessary before narrowing focus further down into specific areas which might apply personally too besides listing facts figures & evidence needed plus other supporting materials that help prove various points within one’s response towards such questions .

Listing everything helps someone come up with an organized plan because once this stage reached one should be able to know what he/she wants say in essay then draft accordingly.

Generating a skeleton is necessary for any essay as it allows the writer to structure their thoughts and ideas logically. The main points, arguments, and supporting evidence should all be included in this section. An introductory paragraph must also be written as well as a conclusion to summarize the entire work.

To create the skeleton, begin with an introduction which gives an overview of what will be covered in the paper; then follow up with one or two sentences about each main point accompanied by relevant information that supports them such as research findings, quotes from authorities on the subject matter being discussed among others before finishing off with some final remarks at the end.

Having finished creating an outline you need to take some time fleshing out your ideas so as to communicate them most effectively in writing. This involves coming up with rough drafts which are later refined until one has crafted something that best delivers their message across. It is advisable not to use too many clichés or jargons while drafting since they may water down your work instead of adding value.

In the process of jotting down points, it is important to maintain coherence throughout by ensuring each sentence flows into another logically without leaving any gaps between different paragraphs or sections hence making sure everything fits together like pieces in a puzzle game. Moreover, all these details should bear relevance to what was outlined earlier on during brainstorming session.

Any statement put forward by an author ought to be supported using evidence obtained from credible sources otherwise such assertions can easily get dismissed by critics for lack of proof. Statistical figures, direct quotations or even instances derived from other works may serve as viable forms of evidence in this regard. This makes people believe what you say because they know where you got it from and how true could possibly be said about anything without backing up any claim whatsoever? Therefore always remember that every argument needs backing up!

While researching ensure that only reputable websites are visited which are closely related to the topic under scrutiny. Additionally, while citing references do so according to required formatting styles as this shows one has taken time researching their paper and can be trusted upon hence failure to do this might lead lower grades being awarded.

One thing many students forget while writing essays is choosing appropriate words for different audiences which could make them fail exams or have people misunderstand what they wanted to say in the first place. For example if someone is writing a formal essay then slang words or colloquial expressions ought not be used at all but rather select terms that show seriousness and maturity of thought process involved when dealing with academic matters.

Furthermore it also aids understanding along the lines of enhancing clarity; thus readers get better equipped with knowledge about your standpoints as well as arguments put forth within such works.

Another important aspect of essay writing involves sentence variations because sticking only long complex ones will make it hard for anyone reading through them understand anything from there since ideas seem all over the place instead use short simple ones alongside compound-complex types too where necessary so that people can easily read through without getting lost somewhere down the line even if some parts may appear difficult to comprehend.

When you are finished writing your essay, give yourself time to edit it thoroughly. Editing is all about looking at the big picture and making sure everything is clear and concise. It allows you to see how well you have communicated your ideas and identify places where you can do better.

Once you have made all the changes that seem necessary, proofread your paper carefully. This means searching for spelling mistakes, grammar errors, or punctuation problems – anything that might be wrong – and fixing them. Doing this will help ensure that your essay has as few mistakes as possible and is the best it can be.

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By following the techniques mentioned above you’ll become a PTE writing master in no time; thereby increasing your chances of success greatly. Stay focused throughout the whole process and always give yourself ample time to write an essay because it will pay off eventually.

PTE Essay Samples

Here are more some essay samples PTE essay samples:

Sample PTE Essay 1

Sample PTE Essay 2

What does the PTE writing section test?

The Pearson Test of English (PTE) writing section tests your ability to communicate clearly and accurately in written English. It consists of an essay and a set of multiple-choice questions. 

How to create an outline for the essay?

When creating an outline, start with the introduction to provide a brief overview of the essay. Next, develop an outline for each of your main points accompanied by evidence to support it. Finally, end the outline with the conclusion to summarize the main points and provide a final thought on the topic.

Why is it important to edit and proofread your essay before submitting it?

Editing helps to evaluate how effectively you have conveyed your ideas and identify any areas where improvement may be needed, while proofreading helps to ensure that the essay is as error-free as possible and that it is of the highest quality.

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Transforming your Bedroom into a Personal Sanctuary: Tips & Ideas

This essay is about redecorating your bedroom to transform it into a personal sanctuary. It emphasizes the importance of choosing a suitable color palette to influence mood, utilizing natural and artificial lighting effectively, and selecting furniture that balances functionality and aesthetics. The essay highlights the role of textiles and accessories in adding comfort and personality, the benefits of decluttering for a more serene environment, and the value of incorporating personal interests into the decor. It encourages a gradual, evolving approach to redecorating, focusing on creating a space that promotes comfort, happiness, and well-being.

How it works

Whether you are hoping to create a peaceful haven, a bright and energetic atmosphere, or a cozy alcove, careful planning and creativity are essential. Here are some professional tips and ideas to help you give your bedroom a makeover. Redecorating your bedroom can be a very fulfilling experience, converting a practical space into a personal sanctuary that reflects your taste and personality.

The color palette is one of the first things to think about when redecorating a bedroom because colors have a big effect on our emotions and general well-being.

If you want to create a calm atmosphere, go for gentle, subdued tones like pastel blues, greens, or neutral shades. These colors can help you feel peaceful and at ease. If you want your bedroom to feel lively and energetic, go for bold hues like vibrant yellows, deep reds, or rich purples. The important thing is to select colors that speak to you and complement the atmosphere you want to create.

Another important component of bedroom decor is lighting. Natural light can make a room feel open and airy, so try to maximize the amount of daylight that enters the space. Use sheer curtains to let sunlight in while keeping privacy. When it comes to artificial lighting, think about using a layered approach. Ambient lighting provides general illumination, task lighting is useful for certain activities like reading or working, accent lighting can add a decorative touch by highlighting architectural features or artwork, and dimmable lights are especially versatile because you can adjust the brightness to suit your needs and mood.

Bed furniture is essential to the practicality and design of your space. As the focal point of the room, let us start with the bed. Invest in a premium mattress and pick a bed frame that matches your decor, whether it is an elaborate, classic design or a sleek, modern platform bed. Wardrobes, dressers, and nightstands should provide enough storage without taking up too much room. Consider multipurpose furniture, such as floor-saving floating shelves or a bench with storage at the foot of the bed. Creating a plan that is harmonic and balanced while allowing for easy mobility and upholding order is the aim.

Your bedroom can benefit from layers of comfort and individuality added by accessories and textiles. Throw pillows, carpets, curtains, and bedding are all great places to add patterns, textures, and hues. Combine various materials, like cotton, wool, and linen, to create a cozy and opulent space. Custom elements, such as cherished souvenirs, artwork, or family photos, can give the area a truly personalized feel. Another great addition that enhances air quality and brings a bit of nature inside is a plant.

A crucial first step in decorating that can significantly alter the atmosphere of your bedroom is decluttering. While a neat, orderly area encourages relaxation and tranquility, a cluttered one can breed stress and disorder. Sort through your possessions and retain those items that are essential and significant. To keep everything organized, use storage options like closet organizers, baskets, and under-bed boxes. An atmosphere that is more calm and concentrated can frequently be achieved through minimalism.

Your bedroom can be more pleasurable and a better reflection of your lifestyle if you incorporate your interests and hobbies into the design. If you enjoy reading, set up a comfy reading area with a small bookcase, nice lighting, and a chair. If you are an art enthusiast, make a gallery-style display or dedicate a wall to your best pieces. A well-curated sound system or a tiny space set aside for their instruments may bring delight to music lovers.

Last but not least, keep in mind that remodeling your bedroom is a process that might change with time. It is acceptable to begin with a few tweaks and add components bit by bit as you figure out what suits you the best. Establishing a place where you feel at ease, content, and at peace is crucial. Redecorating is about creating an environment that improves your everyday life and overall well-being, not just about looks. Through careful consideration of color, lighting, furnishings, textiles, and individual accents, you can turn your bedroom into a haven that genuinely feels like home.

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PapersOwl.com. (2024). Transforming Your Bedroom into a Personal Sanctuary: Tips & Ideas . [Online]. Available at: https://papersowl.com/examples/transforming-your-bedroom-into-a-personal-sanctuary-tips-ideas/ [Accessed: 30-Jun-2024]

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Guest Essay

How Can Biden Win the Debate? Trump? Five Tips for Each Candidate.

By New York Times Opinion

Joe Biden and Donald Trump will face off Thursday night for the first general-election debate of the 2024 presidential election cycle. Below, two political experts weigh in on what each candidate needs to do to win.

The Five Things Biden Needs to Do

By Chris Whipple

Chris Whipple is the author of “The Fight of His Life: Inside Joe Biden’s White House” and “The Gatekeepers: How the White House Chiefs of Staff Define Every Presidency.”

1. Be energetic and engaged. Mr. Trump and his MAGA allies have tried to portray the president as a doddering geriatric who can’t complete a sentence. Simply appearing engaged, alert and coherent will be a victory for Mr. Biden. Mr. Biden would also do well to remember this fact: Incumbent presidents almost always lose the first debate. That’s true of even superlative political talents like Ronald Reagan and Barack Obama. Among the reasons for this are hubris and lack of practice; incumbent presidents are used to being saluted, not challenged.

2. Drive the contrast with Mr. Trump. Mr. Biden must recast the race from a referendum on his presidency to a stark choice between himself and Mr. Trump. “I used to say to President Obama, ‘If you’re on defense about your record, we’re losing,’” says Jim Messina, who ran Mr. Obama’s winning 2012 campaign. Mr. Biden should remind voters that his predecessor lost more jobs than any president since Herbert Hoover and cut taxes for the ultrawealthy and corporations. He should emphasize: “Donald Trump said he was going to pass an infrastructure bill. He couldn’t. I did. Donald Trump said he was going to bring back manufacturing jobs. He couldn’t. I did . ”

3. Outline a second-term agenda. Voters don’t reward presidents for what they’ve done; they want to know what they’ll do in the future. Mr. Biden should pick up on the American comeback narrative from his State of the Union speech and detail his priorities for a second term: codifying Roe v. Wade; cutting taxes for the middle class; extending student loans; combating climate change; and perhaps above all, making goods and housing affordable for working families. Admit that prices are too high and explain how he’ll bring them down. Mr. Biden can frame the election as a choice between a president who cares about the common good and a felon who cares only about himself and retribution.

4. Stress the threat to reproductive rights and democracy. These have been potent issues for Democrats in recent elections across the country. In November, they will be potent again. Mr. Biden should repeat Mr. Trump’s own words, like the former president’s boast, “ I was able to kill Roe v. Wade ,” and his remark that there should be “some form of punishment” for women who have abortions. If Mr. Trump asserts that he’s leaving abortion to the states, Mr. Biden can reply: “When he says ‘states’ rights’, he really means taking away a woman’s right. It’s code for outlawing abortion.”

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Frequently asked questions

What is the structure of an essay.

The structure of an essay is divided into an introduction that presents your topic and thesis statement , a body containing your in-depth analysis and arguments, and a conclusion wrapping up your ideas.

The structure of the body is flexible, but you should always spend some time thinking about how you can organize your essay to best serve your ideas.

Frequently asked questions: Writing an essay

For a stronger conclusion paragraph, avoid including:

• Important evidence or analysis that wasn’t mentioned in the main body
• Generic concluding phrases (e.g. “In conclusion…”)
• Weak statements that undermine your argument (e.g. “There are good points on both sides of this issue.”)

Your conclusion should leave the reader with a strong, decisive impression of your work.

Your essay’s conclusion should contain:

• A rephrased version of your overall thesis
• A brief review of the key points you made in the main body
• An indication of why your argument matters

The conclusion may also reflect on the broader implications of your argument, showing how your ideas could applied to other contexts or debates.

The conclusion paragraph of an essay is usually shorter than the introduction . As a rule, it shouldn’t take up more than 10–15% of the text.

An essay is a focused piece of writing that explains, argues, describes, or narrates.

In high school, you may have to write many different types of essays to develop your writing skills.

Academic essays at college level are usually argumentative : you develop a clear thesis about your topic and make a case for your position using evidence, analysis and interpretation.

The “hook” is the first sentence of your essay introduction . It should lead the reader into your essay, giving a sense of why it’s interesting.

To write a good hook, avoid overly broad statements or long, dense sentences. Try to start with something clear, concise and catchy that will spark your reader’s curiosity.

Your essay introduction should include three main things, in this order:

• An opening hook to catch the reader’s attention.
• Relevant background information that the reader needs to know.
• A thesis statement that presents your main point or argument.

The length of each part depends on the length and complexity of your essay .

Let’s say you’re writing a five-paragraph  essay about the environmental impacts of dietary choices. Here are three examples of topic sentences you could use for each of the three body paragraphs :

• Research has shown that the meat industry has severe environmental impacts.
• However, many plant-based foods are also produced in environmentally damaging ways.
• It’s important to consider not only what type of diet we eat, but where our food comes from and how it is produced.

Each of these sentences expresses one main idea – by listing them in order, we can see the overall structure of the essay at a glance. Each paragraph will expand on the topic sentence with relevant detail, evidence, and arguments.

The topic sentence usually comes at the very start of the paragraph .

However, sometimes you might start with a transition sentence to summarize what was discussed in previous paragraphs, followed by the topic sentence that expresses the focus of the current paragraph.

Topic sentences help keep your writing focused and guide the reader through your argument.

In an essay or paper , each paragraph should focus on a single idea. By stating the main idea in the topic sentence, you clarify what the paragraph is about for both yourself and your reader.

A topic sentence is a sentence that expresses the main point of a paragraph . Everything else in the paragraph should relate to the topic sentence.

The thesis statement is essential in any academic essay or research paper for two main reasons:

• It gives your writing direction and focus.
• It gives the reader a concise summary of your main point.

Without a clear thesis statement, an essay can end up rambling and unfocused, leaving your reader unsure of exactly what you want to say.

The thesis statement should be placed at the end of your essay introduction .

Follow these four steps to come up with a thesis statement :

• Ask a question about your topic .
• Write your initial answer.
• Develop your answer by including reasons.
• Refine your answer, adding more detail and nuance.

A thesis statement is a sentence that sums up the central point of your paper or essay . Everything else you write should relate to this key idea.

An essay isn’t just a loose collection of facts and ideas. Instead, it should be centered on an overarching argument (summarized in your thesis statement ) that every part of the essay relates to.

The way you structure your essay is crucial to presenting your argument coherently. A well-structured essay helps your reader follow the logic of your ideas and understand your overall point.

The vast majority of essays written at university are some sort of argumentative essay . Almost all academic writing involves building up an argument, though other types of essay might be assigned in composition classes.

Essays can present arguments about all kinds of different topics. For example:

• In a literary analysis essay, you might make an argument for a specific interpretation of a text
• In a history essay, you might present an argument for the importance of a particular event
• In a politics essay, you might argue for the validity of a certain political theory

At high school and in composition classes at university, you’ll often be told to write a specific type of essay , but you might also just be given prompts.

Look for keywords in these prompts that suggest a certain approach: The word “explain” suggests you should write an expository essay , while the word “describe” implies a descriptive essay . An argumentative essay might be prompted with the word “assess” or “argue.”

In rhetorical analysis , a claim is something the author wants the audience to believe. A support is the evidence or appeal they use to convince the reader to believe the claim. A warrant is the (often implicit) assumption that links the support with the claim.

Logos appeals to the audience’s reason, building up logical arguments . Ethos appeals to the speaker’s status or authority, making the audience more likely to trust them. Pathos appeals to the emotions, trying to make the audience feel angry or sympathetic, for example.

Collectively, these three appeals are sometimes called the rhetorical triangle . They are central to rhetorical analysis , though a piece of rhetoric might not necessarily use all of them.

The term “text” in a rhetorical analysis essay refers to whatever object you’re analyzing. It’s frequently a piece of writing or a speech, but it doesn’t have to be. For example, you could also treat an advertisement or political cartoon as a text.

The goal of a rhetorical analysis is to explain the effect a piece of writing or oratory has on its audience, how successful it is, and the devices and appeals it uses to achieve its goals.

Unlike a standard argumentative essay , it’s less about taking a position on the arguments presented, and more about exploring how they are constructed.

You should try to follow your outline as you write your essay . However, if your ideas change or it becomes clear that your structure could be better, it’s okay to depart from your essay outline . Just make sure you know why you’re doing so.

If you have to hand in your essay outline , you may be given specific guidelines stating whether you have to use full sentences. If you’re not sure, ask your supervisor.

When writing an essay outline for yourself, the choice is yours. Some students find it helpful to write out their ideas in full sentences, while others prefer to summarize them in short phrases.

You will sometimes be asked to hand in an essay outline before you start writing your essay . Your supervisor wants to see that you have a clear idea of your structure so that writing will go smoothly.

Even when you do not have to hand it in, writing an essay outline is an important part of the writing process . It’s a good idea to write one (as informally as you like) to clarify your structure for yourself whenever you are working on an essay.

Comparisons in essays are generally structured in one of two ways:

• The alternating method, where you compare your subjects side by side according to one specific aspect at a time.
• The block method, where you cover each subject separately in its entirety.

It’s also possible to combine both methods, for example by writing a full paragraph on each of your topics and then a final paragraph contrasting the two according to a specific metric.

Your subjects might be very different or quite similar, but it’s important that there be meaningful grounds for comparison . You can probably describe many differences between a cat and a bicycle, but there isn’t really any connection between them to justify the comparison.

You’ll have to write a thesis statement explaining the central point you want to make in your essay , so be sure to know in advance what connects your subjects and makes them worth comparing.

Some essay prompts include the keywords “compare” and/or “contrast.” In these cases, an essay structured around comparing and contrasting is the appropriate response.

Comparing and contrasting is also a useful approach in all kinds of academic writing : You might compare different studies in a literature review , weigh up different arguments in an argumentative essay , or consider different theoretical approaches in a theoretical framework .

The key difference is that a narrative essay is designed to tell a complete story, while a descriptive essay is meant to convey an intense description of a particular place, object, or concept.

Narrative and descriptive essays both allow you to write more personally and creatively than other kinds of essays , and similar writing skills can apply to both.

If you’re not given a specific prompt for your descriptive essay , think about places and objects you know well, that you can think of interesting ways to describe, or that have strong personal significance for you.

The best kind of object for a descriptive essay is one specific enough that you can describe its particular features in detail—don’t choose something too vague or general.

If you’re not given much guidance on what your narrative essay should be about, consider the context and scope of the assignment. What kind of story is relevant, interesting, and possible to tell within the word count?

The best kind of story for a narrative essay is one you can use to reflect on a particular theme or lesson, or that takes a surprising turn somewhere along the way.

Don’t worry too much if your topic seems unoriginal. The point of a narrative essay is how you tell the story and the point you make with it, not the subject of the story itself.

Narrative essays are usually assigned as writing exercises at high school or in university composition classes. They may also form part of a university application.

When you are prompted to tell a story about your own life or experiences, a narrative essay is usually the right response.

The majority of the essays written at university are some sort of argumentative essay . Unless otherwise specified, you can assume that the goal of any essay you’re asked to write is argumentative: To convince the reader of your position using evidence and reasoning.

In composition classes you might be given assignments that specifically test your ability to write an argumentative essay. Look out for prompts including instructions like “argue,” “assess,” or “discuss” to see if this is the goal.

At college level, you must properly cite your sources in all essays , research papers , and other academic texts (except exams and in-class exercises).

Add a citation whenever you quote , paraphrase , or summarize information or ideas from a source. You should also give full source details in a bibliography or reference list at the end of your text.

The exact format of your citations depends on which citation style you are instructed to use. The most common styles are APA , MLA , and Chicago .

An argumentative essay tends to be a longer essay involving independent research, and aims to make an original argument about a topic. Its thesis statement makes a contentious claim that must be supported in an objective, evidence-based way.

An expository essay also aims to be objective, but it doesn’t have to make an original argument. Rather, it aims to explain something (e.g., a process or idea) in a clear, concise way. Expository essays are often shorter assignments and rely less on research.

An expository essay is a common assignment in high-school and university composition classes. It might be assigned as coursework, in class, or as part of an exam.

Sometimes you might not be told explicitly to write an expository essay. Look out for prompts containing keywords like “explain” and “define.” An expository essay is usually the right response to these prompts.

An expository essay is a broad form that varies in length according to the scope of the assignment.

Expository essays are often assigned as a writing exercise or as part of an exam, in which case a five-paragraph essay of around 800 words may be appropriate.

You’ll usually be given guidelines regarding length; if you’re not sure, ask.

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