what kinds of essays are there

17 Types of Essays: Examples and Quick Guide

Knowing how to write an essay is a key skill that can benefit you in multiple areas of life. From school life to academia, and later on in the workplace, if you possess good essay-writing skills you can truly get ahead of the pack. However, there can be a number of different types of essays you may need to write. It’s therefore important to be aware of them so that you know how to write them and when you might use them.

In this article, we take a look at 17 common types of essays that you might need to write.

What are Essays?

An essay is a written composition that presents a coherent and organized argument or exploration of a particular topic. It is a form of communication that allows individuals to express their thoughts, ideas, and perspectives on a subject.

Typically, an essay consists of an introduction, body paragraphs, and a conclusion:

• The introduction introduces the main idea or thesis statement.
• The body paragraphs elaborate on and support the thesis.
• The conclusion summarizes the key points and leaves a lasting impression on the reader.

Essays come in various forms, such as narrative, descriptive, expository, persuasive, and more. Each type of essay serves a unique purpose in conveying information or persuading the audience.

With that in mind let’s take a look at 17 types of essays you could write.

17 Types of Essays

Here are 17 types of essays that you might need to write:

Narrative Essay

• Purpose:  To tell a story or recount a personal experience
• Features:  Use of vivid details, chronological structure, and a first-person point of view.

A narrative essay is a form of writing that recounts a personal experience or tells a story. In this type of essay, the author uses vivid language, descriptive details, and often a chronological structure to engage the reader and convey a specific message or theme.

The primary purpose of a narrative essay is to entertain, engage, and immerse the audience in a compelling narrative. Through the lens of the author’s personal experience, readers gain insights into the emotions, perspectives, and lessons embedded in the story. Unlike other forms of essays that may focus on analysis or argumentation, a narrative essay emphasizes storytelling and the conveyance of a meaningful experience.

Techniques employed in crafting a compelling narrative essay often involve the use of sensory details and a well-structured plot that builds tension or tells a story and climaxes with a resolution. Narrative essays therefore present a great opportunity to exercise creativity and show off your writing skills, and you can include metaphors , analogies, imagery, and dialogue.

The inclusion of such elements resonate with readers’ emotions and contribute to the overall impact of a narrative essay, making it a powerful and evocative form of expression.

Learn more about how to write a narrative essay .

Narrative essays can be written in various contexts, both academic and personal. In an academic setting, educators may assign narrative essays to students to assess their ability to craft a coherent and engaging story while effectively communicating a central idea or lesson. Here you’ll often be given a narrative writing prompt and will be expected to follow this to create your essay.

Beyond the classroom, individuals may choose to write personal narratives or narrative essays as a means of self-expression, reflection, or sharing experiences with a broader audience. As narrative essays can be used to describe an experience, you may find yourself writing one for a job application or on a cover letter, for example.

Descriptive Essay

• Purpose:  To paint a vivid picture of a person, place, object, or experience.
• Features:  Detailed sensory descriptions, figurative language, and a focus on creating a sensory experience for the reader.

A descriptive essay is a piece of writing that aims to paint a vivid picture of a person, place, object, or experience through the use of sensory details and expressive language.

The primary purpose of a descriptive essay is to engage the reader’s senses through descriptive writing, immersing them in the depicted scene and evoking their imagination to picture what is being described. A descriptive essay should prioritize creating a detailed and immersive portrayal of the subject, allowing the reader to visualize and feel the subject through the author’s words.

Techniques employed in writing a compelling descriptive essay often include the use of sensory language, vivid imagery, and figurative expressions. The careful selection of adjectives to describe the person , place, or thing, and the strategic arrangement of details contribute to the overall impact of the essay, allowing readers to not only visualize but also emotionally connect with the subject being described. You can also utilize similes , metaphors, and personification to bring inanimate objects or abstract concepts to life.

Descriptive essays can be used in various scenarios where a detailed depiction is required to convey a specific message or emotion. In academic settings, students may be tasked with crafting descriptive essays to enhance their observational and expressive skills. Beyond academia, professionals may utilize descriptive essays in various fields such as marketing, journalism, or creative writing, where creating a vivid and memorable impression is crucial.

In practical terms, a descriptive essay might be required when articulating the ambiance of a historical site, describing the features of a product in a marketing context, or conveying the emotional nuances of a personal experience.

Expository Essay

• Purpose:  To explain, inform, or describe a concept or process.
• Features:  Clear and concise writing, logical organization, and the use of evidence to support explanations.

An expository essay is a type of writing that aims to explain or inform by presenting facts, clarifying concepts, or describing processes.

The purpose of an expository essay is to provide a clear and straightforward analysis of a topic, devoid of the writer’s personal opinions or emotions. It serves as a tool for conveying information in a concise and organized manner, making complex subjects more understandable for the reader. In an expository essay, the author uses evidence, examples, and logical explanations to illuminate the chosen subject, fostering a deeper understanding of the topic at hand.

The key to writing effective expository essays lies in the clear and logical presentation of information. You should sequentially organize your ideas, using transitions to guide the reader through the flow of information. Clarity and simplicity of language are paramount, ensuring that the audience comprehends the subject without unnecessary complexity or ambiguity.

Techniques for successfully writing expository essays therefore include defining key terms, using examples and evidence to support explanations, and ensuring a logical progression of ideas. Clarity is enhanced through the use of straightforward language, avoiding jargon or overly complex terminology. Additionally, breaking down complex concepts into manageable parts and providing real-world examples contribute to the effectiveness of an expository essay, making the information accessible to a broad audience.

Expository essays are commonly required in academic settings, where students are tasked with explaining a particular concept, exploring a historical event, or illustrating a scientific process. Professionals in various fields may also engage in expository writing when preparing reports, manuals, or informative documents.

In practical terms, you might need to write an expository essay when explaining the steps of a technical process, outlining the characteristics of a specific phenomenon, or providing an analysis of historical events. In this sense, they are very much objective and there is a big difference between expository and argumentative essays (which are subjective).

We’ll take a look at argumentative essays next.

Argumentative Essay

• Purpose:  To present a claim or position on a controversial issue and persuade the reader to adopt that viewpoint or take a specific action.
• Features:  Clear thesis statement, evidence-supported arguments, addressing counterarguments, a logical structure, and a formal and objective tone, focusing on logical reasoning rather than personal feelings.

An argumentative essay is a form of writing where the author presents a claim or position on a controversial issue and supports it with evidence and reasoning. The purpose of an argumentative essay is to persuade the reader to accept the author’s viewpoint or take a specific action.

Unlike some other essay types, an argumentative essay encourages the writer to express their opinions and take a stance on a particular subject. It involves presenting a clear thesis statement, providing evidence to support the claim, and addressing counterarguments to strengthen the overall persuasiveness of the essay.

Effective argumentative writing involves conducting thorough research to gather relevant evidence, presenting a strong and clear thesis statement, anticipating and addressing counterarguments, and structuring the essay in a logical and persuasive manner. Additionally, incorporating credible sources and employing a confident and assertive tone contribute to the overall impact of the argumentative essay.

You can use techniques such as presenting statistical data, quoting experts, and using logical reasoning to build a persuasive case. It’s essential to remain focused on the central argument and to maintain a respectful tone when addressing opposing views. By carefully constructing the argument and providing well-reasoned support, you can effectively convey your perspective and encourage readers to consider and possibly adopt your viewpoint.

You might need to write argumentative essays in various contexts, including academic assignments, debates, or discussions on societal issues.

In academic settings, students often encounter argumentative essays as assignments that assess their critical thinking and persuasive writing skills.

In real-world scenarios, professionals may engage in writing argumentative essays when advocating for a particular policy, expressing a viewpoint on social issues, or contributing to public discourse. They are commonly used for expressing a viewpoint on topics such as environmental issues, social justice, or political ideologies.

Learn more about how to write an argumentative essay.

Persuasive Essay

Purpose:  To convince the reader to adopt a particular viewpoint or take a specific action by presenting a compelling argument supported by evidence, reasoning, and emotional appeal.

Features:  Clear and assertive thesis statement, emotional appeals, addressing counterarguments, and a persuasive tone. Persuasive essays often incorporate rhetorical devices and aim to create a connection with the reader.

A persuasive essay is a type of essay where the author aims to convince the reader to adopt a particular viewpoint or take a specific action. The purpose of a persuasive essay is to present a compelling argument supported by evidence, reasoning, and emotional appeal. The writer takes a clear stance on a controversial issue, presents their arguments persuasively, and seeks to sway the audience toward their perspective using persuasive techniques to influence the reader’s beliefs or behaviors.

Techniques for writing an effective persuasive essay involve clearly stating a strong thesis or position, providing evidence to support the argument, addressing counterarguments, and using rhetorical devices to enhance persuasive appeal. You can employ methods such as appealing to the reader’s emotions, establishing credibility, and organizing the essay logically and persuasively to maximize the impact and effectiveness of their persuasion.

By utilizing techniques that emphasize clarity and conviction, such as crafting a compelling introduction, using persuasive language, and organizing the essay in a way that builds a persuasive case, you can effectively influence the reader’s perspective and encourage them to adopt the proposed viewpoint or take the suggested action.

You might need to write a persuasive essay in various situations, such as academic assignments, debates, or discussions on societal issues.

In educational settings, students are often tasked with crafting persuasive essays to demonstrate their ability to build a strong argument and persuade others. Professionals may also engage in persuasive writing when advocating for a particular policy, presenting a business proposal, or contributing to public discourse. This could be advocating for environmental conservation measures, or persuading the audience to support a specific social cause, for example.

What’s the difference between persuasive and argumentative essays?

It’s important to note that persuasive essays are different from argumentative essays. While they share similarities, they differ in their overall approach and purpose. Both types of essays aim to convince the reader of a particular viewpoint, but they employ distinct strategies and approaches.

In a persuasive essay, the primary objective is to sway the reader’s beliefs or actions by using emotional appeals and connecting on a personal level. The tone is subjective, and the writer may openly express personal opinions and experiences. Persuasive essays may incorporate anecdotes and focus on creating a strong emotional impact to support the main argument.

On the other hand, argumentative essays prioritize presenting a well-supported argument through logical reasoning and evidence. The focus is on critically analyzing the topic, and the tone is more formal and objective. Argumentative essays actively engage with counterarguments, addressing opposing views and demonstrating a comprehensive understanding of the complexities involved. While emotional appeals may be present, they take a backseat to the emphasis on a structured, evidence-based approach.

In essence, the key distinction lies in the balance between emotion and logic: persuasive essays tilt more towards emotional appeals and personal opinions, while argumentative essays lean towards logical reasoning, evidence, and a more objective tone.

Now that we’ve compared and contrasted persuasive and argumentative essays, let’s move on to a compare and contrast essay!

Compare and Contrast Essay

• Purpose:  To analyze the similarities and differences between two or more subjects.
• Features:  Clear identification of subjects being compared or contrasted, a balanced presentation of similarities and differences, and a conclusion that synthesizes the analysis.

A compare and contrast essay is where the author examines the similarities and differences between two or more subjects. The purpose of compare and contrast essays is to highlight the key characteristics or qualities of the chosen subjects and provide a comprehensive understanding of their relationships. In this type of essay, the writer typically explores both the shared elements and the distinctive features, presenting a balanced analysis. The ultimate goal is to allow the reader to understand the nuances and connections between the subjects, fostering a deeper appreciation of their similarities and differences.

Techniques for writing an effective compare and contrast essay involve identifying the key points of comparison, organizing the information in a coherent structure, and using clear and concise language. You can employ methods such as listing similarities and differences, or create a point-by-point structure to enhance the clarity and readability of the essay.

By utilizing techniques that emphasize the connections and distinctions, such as creating a well-structured outline and selecting clear and relevant examples, you can provide the reader with a comprehensive understanding of the subjects under consideration.

You might need to write a compare and contrast essay in various scenarios, such as academic assignments, literature reviews, or analytical discussions. In educational settings, students are often tasked with comparing and contrasting different literary works, historical events, societal features, or scientific concepts. You could be tasked with exploring the cultural similarities and differences between different societies, for instance.

Professionals may write compare and contrast essays when analyzing market trends, evaluating potential solutions to a problem, or presenting a comprehensive overview of various products or strategies. For example, a compare and contrast essay might be necessary when examining the advantages and disadvantages of different technologies, or analyzing the characteristics of two competing products.

Analytical Essay

• Purpose:  To analyze a piece of literature, film, artwork, or another subject.
• Features:  In-depth analysis, interpretation of the subject, evidence-based arguments, and a focus on uncovering the deeper meaning.

An analytical essay is where the author examines a topic in detail, breaking it down into its components and evaluating the relationships between these parts. The purpose of an analytical essay is to explore the intricacies of a subject, understand its underlying elements, and present a thorough analysis.

An analytical essay does not solely aim to persuade or inform but focuses on dissecting a topic, providing insights, and offering a considered interpretation. The writer often critically examines the evidence, patterns, or themes within the subject to form a comprehensive and well-supported analysis.

By utilizing techniques that emphasize critical thinking, such as providing a clear thesis statement, incorporating relevant evidence, and offering a logical progression of analysis, the writer can effectively convey a deep understanding of the subject and contribute valuable insights to the reader.

Techniques for writing an effective analytical essay therefore involve breaking down the subject into its constituent parts, critically evaluating each component, and presenting a coherent and well-structured argument. You can use methods such as conducting in-depth research, identifying patterns or trends, and providing evidence to support your analysis, contributing to the overall strength of the essay.

You might need to write an analytical essay for academic assignments, literature reviews, or critical assessments. In academic settings, students are often required to write analytical essays to demonstrate their ability to engage critically with course materials. This could involve analyzing the themes in a piece of literature, critically evaluating the impact of a scientific experiment, or analyzing the causes and effects of historical events.

Professionals may also engage in analytical writing when conducting research, evaluating business strategies, or critically assessing the effectiveness of policies.

Cause and Effect Essay

• Purpose:  To explore the relationship between events, identifying the cause(s) and effect(s).
• Features:  Clear presentation of cause-and-effect relationships, logical organization, and the use of supporting evidence.

A cause and effect essay is where the author explores the reasons (causes) behind a particular phenomenon and the consequences (effects) that result from it. The purpose of a cause and effect essay is to analyze the relationships between various events or factors, demonstrating how one event leads to another. In cause and effect essays, the writer aims to uncover the underlying connections and demonstrate the cause-and-effect relationship between the chosen subjects. By presenting a clear cause-and-effect chain, it helps the reader understand the complexities of the topic and the interplay between different elements.

Techniques for writing an effective cause and effect essay therefore involve identifying the key causes and effects, organizing the information in a logical structure, and using clear and concise language. You should emphasize clarity and coherence, such as establishing a clear thesis statement, providing evidence to support each cause and effect, and ensuring a logical progression of ideas. It’s also important to provide examples to support your analysis and ensure a clear presentation of the cause-and-effect relationships to enhance the persuasiveness of the essay.

You might need to write a cause and effect essay in academic assignments, scientific research, or discussions on social issues. In educational settings, students often encounter cause and effect essays as assignments that assess their ability to analyze relationships between different events, phenomena, or concepts.

For example, a cause and effect essay might be necessary when examining the impact of social media on mental health, analyzing the consequences of climate change, or exploring the reasons behind a specific historical event. You can check out some cause and effect essay topics here .

Professionals may engage in this type of writing when examining the impact of business strategies, investigating the causes of environmental issues, or assessing the consequences of policy decisions.

Critical Essay

• Purpose:  To critique or evaluate a work of literature, art, or another subject.
• Features:  Critical analysis, examination of the strengths and weaknesses of the subject, and the presentation of a well-reasoned evaluation.

A critical essay is a form of writing where the author evaluates, interprets, and analyzes a piece of work, such as a book, film, artwork, or a specific topic. The purpose of a critical essay is to offer an informed opinion, supported by evidence, on the strengths and weaknesses of the subject under scrutiny. It is written from the writer’s point of view and the writer not only expresses their viewpoint but also provides a thoughtful analysis of the chosen work.

Overall, the critical essay aims to explore the deeper meaning, themes, or implications of the subject and contribute to a broader understanding or discussion.

Techniques for writing an effective critical essay involve conducting thorough research to understand the subject, presenting a clear thesis statement that reflects the main argument, and providing evidence to support critical analysis. When writing critical essays, you should try to offer a balanced evaluation and present your opinions in a well-organized and coherent manner to enhance the impact and persuasiveness of the essay.

By utilizing techniques that emphasize a thoughtful and balanced analysis, such as considering multiple perspectives, providing specific examples, and maintaining a clear focus on the central argument, you can effectively convey your critical insights and get the reader on board with your ideas.

You might need to write a critical essay in academic assignments, literary reviews, or discussions on cultural topics. In educational settings, students often encounter critical essays as assignments that assess their ability to engage critically with literature, art, or theoretical concepts where they are asked to provide their opinions.

Professionals may also engage in critical writing when evaluating the impact of business strategies, reviewing a product, critiquing research studies, or providing insights into cultural phenomena.

Definition Essay

• Purpose:  To provide a detailed explanation and understanding of a particular concept or term.
• Features:  A precise and well-defined thesis, clear and concise definitions, and the exploration of different aspects of the concept.

A definition essay is a form of writing where the author provides an in-depth explanation of the meaning of a particular term or concept. The purpose of a definition essay is to clarify the understanding of a chosen term by delving into its various aspects, including its history, usage, and different interpretations.

Unlike some other types of essays where terms can be briefly explained, a definition essay goes beyond a basic dictionary definition, aiming to offer a comprehensive understanding and interpretation of the term. The writer may explore the term’s origin, provide examples, and discuss how it is used in different contexts to give the reader a nuanced and enriched understanding.

Techniques for writing an effective definition essay involve providing a clear and precise definition at the outset, using examples and illustrations to enhance understanding, and organizing the essay in a logical and coherent manner. Writers may also consider exploring the term’s historical or cultural context to offer a comprehensive perspective, ensuring that the reader gains a nuanced understanding of the term under consideration.

You might need to write a definition essay in academic assignments, discussions on cultural concepts, or clarifying terms in specialized fields. In educational settings, students often encounter definition essays as assignments that assess their ability to analyze and communicate the complexities of a term.

Professionals may engage in definition writing when providing clear explanations in technical documentation, defining key terms in research papers, or contributing to the development of industry-specific glossaries.

Reflective Essay

• Purpose:  To reflect on personal experiences and explore their impact on the writer’s life. The goal is to provide insight into feelings, growth, and learning.
• Features:  Use introspection, share personal thoughts and experiences, and present structured reflections. Reflective essays emphasize personal insights gained from experiences.

A reflective essay is a type of writing where the author reflects on a personal experience, thought, or emotion and explores its impact on their life or understanding. It is a personal essay that provides insight into the writer’s feelings, growth, and learning process. Unlike other types of essays that may focus on external analysis or persuasion, a reflective essay centers on self-examination and introspection. The writer shares their thoughts, experiences, and the lessons gained, aiming to create a connection with the reader through personal reflection.

Techniques for writing an effective reflective essay involve being open and honest about personal experiences, emotions, and thoughts. You can use descriptive language to convey the details of the experience, reflect on their reactions and feelings, and articulate the insights gained from the experience. By employing techniques that emphasize self-awareness and thoughtful analysis, you can create a compelling reflective essay that resonates with the reader and invites them to contemplate their own experiences.

You might need to write a reflective essay in various situations, such as academic assignments, personal journals, or self-assessment in professional development.

In educational settings, students often encounter reflective essays as assignments that encourage them to reflect on their learning experiences, personal challenges, or the impact of certain events. his could be a life-changing event, evaluating personal growth during a project, or exploring the lessons learned from a challenging experience.

Professionals may engage in reflective writing as part of career development, project evaluations, or when documenting personal and professional growth.

Learn more about how to write a reflective essay .

Opinion Essay

Purpose: To express and support the writer’s personal opinion on a specific topic.

Features: Clear articulation of the writer’s viewpoint, use of persuasive language, and supporting evidence or examples.

An opinion essay is a form of writing that allows the author to share their personal perspective on a particular subject. In this type of essay, the writer expresses their opinions and provides supporting arguments to convince the reader of the validity of their viewpoint.

The primary purpose of an opinion essay is to convey a strong and well-reasoned personal stance on an issue. Writers employ persuasive language and provide evidence, examples, or anecdotes to substantiate their opinions. Unlike expository essays that aim for objectivity, opinion essays encourage the use of emotional appeals and subjective reasoning to sway the reader towards the writer’s point of view.

Crafting a compelling opinion essay involves clearly stating your opinion in the introduction, presenting supporting arguments in the body paragraphs, and summarizing the main points in the conclusion. It is crucial to acknowledge counterarguments and address them to strengthen the overall persuasiveness of the essay.

Opinion essays are commonly assigned in educational settings to assess students’ ability to express and defend their viewpoints. Additionally, they are prevalent in various forms of media where writers share their opinions on current events, social issues, or cultural phenomena.

For and Against Essay

Purpose: To present arguments in favor of and against a particular issue and reach a balanced conclusion.

Features: Clear presentation of opposing viewpoints, balanced structure, and an unbiased analysis of arguments.

A for and against essay, also known as a pros and cons essay, is a type of writing that examines both sides of an issue before arriving at a balanced conclusion. The essay typically starts by presenting the arguments in favor of a particular viewpoint, followed by the arguments against it.

The primary purpose of a for and against essay is to provide a comprehensive exploration of an issue, weighing the pros and cons to help the reader understand the complexities surrounding the topic. This type of essay requires the writer to maintain objectivity and avoid favoring one side over the other.

To craft an effective for and against essay, it’s essential to clearly outline the arguments on both sides and maintain a logical and coherent structure. Writers should aim to present each perspective fairly, offering evidence and examples to support each point. The conclusion should synthesize the presented arguments and may include a personal reflection on the issue.

For and against essays are commonly assigned in academic settings to enhance critical thinking skills and the ability to analyze multiple perspectives on a given topic. They are also used in professional contexts where a balanced evaluation of competing ideas is necessary.

Problem-Solution Essays

Purpose: To identify a problem, propose effective solutions, and advocate for their implementation.

Features: Clear articulation of the problem, well-researched solutions, and a persuasive argument for implementation.

A problem-solution essay is a type of writing that addresses a specific issue, outlines the underlying problems, and proposes viable solutions. This essay aims to persuade the reader that the suggested solutions are practical and effective in addressing the identified problem.

The primary purpose of a problem-solution essay is to engage the reader in understanding the severity of a problem and to present well-researched and feasible solutions. Writers often begin by clearly defining the problem, providing relevant statistics or examples to emphasize its significance.

The body of the essay explores potential solutions, discussing the advantages and disadvantages of each. It is crucial to present evidence and reasoning to support the proposed solutions, demonstrating their practicality and effectiveness. The conclusion typically restates the importance of addressing the problem and reinforces the viability of the proposed solutions.

Problem-solution essays are commonly assigned in academic and professional settings where critical thinking and analytical skills are valued. They are particularly relevant in fields such as public policy, environmental studies, and social sciences.

Proposal Essays

Purpose: To suggest a specific course of action or a plan and persuade the audience to accept it.

Features: Clear presentation of the proposal, detailed plan of action, and persuasive arguments for its implementation.

A proposal essay is a type of writing that suggests a specific course of action or plan and aims to persuade the audience to accept and support the proposal. This type of essay requires a clear presentation of the proposed idea, a detailed plan outlining how it will be implemented, and persuasive arguments supporting its feasibility and benefits.

The primary purpose of a proposal essay is to convince the reader that the proposed idea is worthwhile and that its implementation would bring positive outcomes. The writer begins by introducing the proposal, providing background information, and establishing the significance of the suggested course of action.

The body of the essay elaborates on the details of the proposal, outlining the steps involved in its implementation and addressing potential concerns. Writers should use persuasive language, supported by evidence and examples, to demonstrate the practicality and effectiveness of the proposed plan.

Learn more about how to write a proposal essay .

Proposal essays are commonly assigned in academic and professional settings where the ability to formulate and present actionable ideas is essential. They are prevalent in fields such as business, marketing, and public administration, where individuals are often required to propose new initiatives, projects, or solutions.

Research Essay

• Purpose:  To present the findings of original research on a specific topic.
• Features:  Extensive research, proper citation of sources, a clear thesis statement, and a structured presentation of research findings.

A research essay is a type of writing where the author conducts in-depth research on a specific topic and presents their findings in a structured and coherent manner. The purpose of a research essay is to explore, analyze, and synthesize existing knowledge on a subject, providing insights and contributing to the existing body of information.

Research essays rely heavily on evidence from various sources, such as academic articles, books, and reputable publications, to support the writer’s claims and arguments. The focus is on presenting a well-researched and informed perspective, and the essay typically includes citations to acknowledge the sources used. In this sense, it’s essentially an academic essay.

Techniques for writing an effective research essay involve conducting thorough research to gather relevant and credible sources, organizing the information in a logical and coherent structure, and properly citing sources to give credit to the original authors. Writers may also need to critically evaluate the quality of sources, synthesize information from diverse perspectives, and present a well-reasoned argument based on the available evidence.

You might need to write a research essay in academic assignments, literature reviews, or contributions to scholarly discussions. In educational settings, students often encounter research essays as assignments that assess their ability to conduct independent research, critically analyze information, and present a coherent argument.

Professionals may engage in research essay writing when contributing to academic journals, conducting market research, or providing comprehensive analyses in various fields. This could include exploring the impact of new technologies, analyzing trends in a particular industry, or contributing to academic discussions on a specific scientific phenomenon.

Application Essay

• Purpose:  To showcase the writer’s personality, experiences, and suitability for a particular academic program or job.
• Features:  Personal reflection, storytelling, and a focus on demonstrating the writer’s qualities and aspirations.

An application essay is a written piece that individuals submit as part of their application to educational institutions, job positions, or various programs.

The purpose of an application essay is to provide the applicant with an opportunity to showcase their personality, experiences, and qualifications in a way that goes beyond what can be conveyed through academic records or resumes. In this type of essay, applicants often share personal anecdotes, reflect on their achievements, highlight their academic career, and express their aspirations, allowing the evaluators to gain a deeper understanding of the individual beyond the formal application materials.

Techniques for writing an effective application essay involve highlighting personal experiences that demonstrate qualities relevant to the application, such as leadership, resilience, or a commitment to a particular field.

You should aim to make a memorable and positive impression by expressing your genuine enthusiasm for the opportunity and aligning your personal and professional goals with the objectives of the institution or program you are applying to. This is particularly true for work or college application essays. Additionally, clarity, conciseness, and a well-structured narrative contribute to the overall effectiveness of an application essay.

You may need to write an application essay when applying to colleges, universities, job positions, internships, scholarships, or specialized programs. The essay serves as a crucial component of the application process, providing you with a platform to distinguish yourself from others with similar qualifications.

When Might You Need to Write an Essay?

Essays play a crucial role in both academic and professional settings. In educational institutions, students often encounter essays as a common method of assessment. Professors use essays to evaluate students’ understanding of a topic, their critical thinking skills, and their ability to communicate ideas effectively.

Similarly, in the workplace, professionals may be required to write essays as part of reports, proposals, or documentation. The ability to articulate thoughts clearly and persuasively through essays is a valuable skill that extends beyond the classroom, contributing to success in various fields.

One notable aspect of essay writing is the variability in topic selection. Depending on the context, you may have the freedom to choose your essay topic or be assigned one. In some instances, educators or employers provide specific prompts or questions, guiding the direction of your essay. On the other hand, there are situations where you have the autonomy to select a topic based on personal interest or expertise.

This means that you’ll be required to adapt your essay writing approach based on the given circumstances and type of essay, whether it involves exploring a predetermined theme or delving into a subject of personal choice.

Conclusion: Start Writing

That completes our run-through of the different essay types. Whatever you’re writing, try to keep the reader interested and build an essay structure that is easy to follow. If you can do those two things, you’ll be well on the way to essay writing success.

Founder of DoTEFL, James has been helping people teach English abroad and online since 2011.

He’s traveled to over 30 countries, lived in 3, and taught English in Chile and online. James is passionate about helping others fulfill their own dreams through teaching and traveling abroad.

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The 7 Types of Essays Every Student Needs to Know

Throughout your academic career, you’ll write a lot of essays . And you’ll probably write a lot of different types of essays, such as analytical and argumentative essays. Different kinds of essays require different skills, like infusing figurative language into a personal essay to help it come alive or critically thinking through a multifaceted problem in an analytical essay to reach a solution. Essays vary in length and structure , too, with some spanning pages and others fitting neatly into just a few paragraphs.  

Get to know these seven types of essays before you’re assigned to write them. Understanding how they’re different—and how they’re the same—will turn you into an expert essayist.

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The four main types of writing

In many of the online resources you’ll find about the types of essays, you’ll find references to the four main types of writing :

• Descriptive

These aren’t four specific types of essays, but four distinct methods of communicating an essay’s theme. They are the four most commonly used of the nine traditional rhetorical modes , which also include methods like classification and process analysis. 

When you’re assigned an essay, using one of these rhetorical modes might be part of the assignment. For example, you might be asked to write an argumentative essay about a new proposed campus policy and whether it should or should not be enacted. In your essay, you’d use persuasive writing techniques, like expressing your point of view about the proposed policy and its likely repercussions, to communicate your position. 

Understanding the four main types of writing can help you understand the texts you work with better. When you’re reading an essay, try to identify which type of writing the author is using by examining the essay’s structure , tone, words used, and how the author presents their theme. By doing this, you can analyze an essay on a deeper level and write a stronger essay of your own based on those insights. 

7 types of essays to know

1   personal essays.

In a personal essay, your focus is on something that has impacted you personally. It could be an event from your past, a situation you’re currently facing, or a broader look at how different experiences and circumstances shaped you into who you are today. 

Often, personal essays employ narrative writing techniques. However, they can also rely on expository or descriptive techniques, depending on the essay’s content and theme. Personal essays can overlap with other types of essays, like argumentative, humorous, and college application essays. 

Personal essay example: The Death of a Moth by Virginia Woolf. In this essay, Woolf explores the fleeting nature of life by juxtaposing it against inevitable death by describing a moth’s final moments. 

2 Political essays

You may recognize some of the most well-known political essays from what you read in history class. These essays are pieces by famous historical and contemporary thinkers that discuss society and how it should be governed. A few famous political essayists you’ve likely read in class include Thomas Hobbes, John Rawls, and Jean-Jacques Rousseau. In a political essay, the author comments on present circumstances and proposes solutions to them, sometimes pulling examples of similar circumstances or solutions from history. Generally, political essays fall into the expository or persuasive writing categories. 

Political essay example: The Era of Easier Voting for Disabled People Is Over by Sarah Katz. In this essay, Katz discusses how pandemic-related changes to the voting system made voting easier for individuals with disabilities and how new bills that aim to curb voter fraud can have a negative impact on this voter population. 

3 Compare-and-contrast essays

Compare-and-contrast essays are likely one of the types of essays students write most frequently. In this kind of essay, the author exposes key differences and similarities between two subjects by comparing them to each other and contrasting them against each other. 

You might be asked to compare two novels you read for class, two historical figures from the period you’re studying, two processes used to achieve the same result, or two concepts your instructor covered. In some cases, you may be asked to compare three or even more subjects. But generally, compare-and-contrast essays involve two subjects. 

Usually, compare-and-contrast essays are pieces of expository writing, as the essay’s theme is exposed through the comparisons the author makes. They can also be pieces of persuasive writing when the comparisons are made to persuade the reader to take a specific position.

Compare-and-contrast essay example: Herman Melville’s Moby Dick and Edgar Allan Poe’s The Raven . This compare-and-contrast essay explores how an individual can become unaware of and trapped by their own suffering by comparing how both authors create this dilemma for their characters in these works. 

4 College (application) essays

Not all essays you write in college count as college essays . In fact, unless you apply to graduate school or another kind of specific academic program once you’re in college, you’ll write all your college essays before you become a college student. 

A college application essay, also known as a personal statement , is a brief personal essay that highlights the personality traits and experiences that make you an ideal fit for the college to which you’re applying. These essays are evaluated alongside high school transcripts for one’s admission to college. 

Usually, college essays are written in response to specific prompts, like the prompts provided by the Common App . These prompts are crafted to help applicants write engaging, compelling personal essays by asking them to respond to multiple related points. 

College application essay examples: You can read great examples of successful college essays on websites like collegeessayguy.com . Your school might even have a collection of successful essays for applicants to read, as this page on Johns Hopkins’ website does. In one essay, Switching Shoes , by a recently accepted Johns Hopkins applicant, the writer discusses how getting out of his comfort zone by trying a new sport reshaped his perspective. It pushed him to accept feedback more readily, speak up when he has questions, and appreciate his chosen sport in a broader way. 

5 Analytical essays

Analytical essays are essays that drill down to the core components of the subject at hand and reach conclusions by thoroughly working through these components. You might be asked to write an analytical essay about the themes in a novel or about the ideas presented in a political essay. Analytical essays are pieces of expository writing; the goal with these is to present facts by interpreting content.

In an analytical essay, the author does not try to persuade the reader to take a certain position. Rather, the author presents a work, such as a movie or a short story, and analyzes its theme by discussing ways the work communicates its theme. For example, you might write an analytical essay about how the film Up communicated its theme of love being an action fueled by fulfilling promises. In illustrating this, you might bring up Russell’s dedication to earning his merit badge and Carl’s never giving up on Ellie’s goal of reaching Paradise Falls. 

In some analytical essays, the author analyzes two or more works. When this is done to compare the works, the essay can be considered both a compare-and-contrast essay and an analytical one. 

Analytical essay example: Island of Fear by Moses Martinez. In this high school–level literary analysis essay, the author explains how William Golding uses three characters in Lord of the Flies to demonstrate how differently people react to threats and trauma, even when those people are in the same environment. 

6 Argumentative essays

In an argumentative essay , you . . . well . . . argue. 

Specifically, you argue for or against a particular position. For example, your assignment might be to take a position about your school’s policy of not allowing a student to take more than two AP courses per year and support your position with data. To support your position that it’s a good policy, you might point to the correlation between how many AP courses a student takes and their average AP test scores or the hours of homework required for each AP course. 

Well-written argumentative essays don’t rely on emotional appeal. Rather, they convince readers of their positions’ merits through statistics, facts, and logic. In most cases, argumentative essays are pieces of persuasive writing . 

Argumentative essay example: Does Truth Matter? Science, Pseudoscience, and Civilization by Carl Sagan. In this essay, Sagan argues that rather than being in opposition to spirituality, science should be considered a source—perhaps the most valid source—of the kind of fulfillment people usually take from spiritual practices.  

7 Humorous essays

Another kind of essay you might find yourself reading or writing is the humorous essay. As the name implies, this kind of essay is meant to elicit laughs and entertain the reader. A humorous essay could be a personal essay that recounts a funny event in the author’s life, but it can also be a political essay that uses satire to comment on current events. As long as it’s funny and an essay, it counts as a humorous essay. 

Humorous essays generally use the same techniques that other essays use, often leaning more into the techniques found in narrative writing like descriptive language and metaphors. Often, humorous essays are pieces of descriptive writing, using hyperbolic, irreverent, or whimsical language to express a funny take on the subject covered. 

Humorous essay example: The Santaland Diaries by David Sedaris. In this essay, Sedaris writes from the perspective of a man playing an elf at a mall Santa setup. Through this point of view, he satirizes this American holiday ritual through ironic anecdotes. 

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Sometimes the issue isn’t your grammar, but your tone. Grammarly can help with that, too. Whether you’re writing a serious political think piece or a silly narrative of the last time you attempted to do Black Friday shopping, our tone detector can pick up on your intended tone and help you rein in your writing appropriately.

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Guide to Different Kinds of Essays

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An essay is a paper that discusses, describes or analyzes one topic. It can discuss a subject directly or indirectly, seriously or humorously. It can describe personal opinions, or just report information. An essay can be written from any perspective, but essays are most commonly written in the first person ( I ), or third person (subjects that can be substituted with the he, she, it, or they pronouns).

There are many different kinds of essays. The following are a some of the most common ones:

Descriptive Cause/Effect Argumentative Definition Narrative Critical Compare/Contrast Process

Descriptive:

Examples: A descriptive essay could describe . . .

The descriptive essay provides details about how something looks, feels, tastes, smells, makes one feel, or sounds. It can also describe what something is, or how something happened. These essays generally use a lot of sensory details. The essay could be a list-like description that provides point by point details. Or, it could function as a story, keeping the reader interested in the plot and theme of the event described.

Definition:

Examples: A definition essay may try and define . . .

A definition essay attempts to define a specific term. It could try to pin down the meaning of a specific word, or define an abstract concept. The analysis goes deeper than a simple dictionary definition; it should attempt to explain why the term is defined as such. It could define the term directly, giving no information other than the explanation of the term. Or, it could imply the definition of the term, telling a story that requires the reader to infer the meaning.

Compare/Contrast:

Examples:A compare/contrast essay may discuss . . .

The compare/contrast essay discusses the similarities and differences between two things, people, concepts, places, etc. The essay could be an unbiased discussion, or an attempt to convince the reader of the benefits of one thing, person, or concept. It could also be written simply to entertain the reader, or to arrive at an insight into human nature. The essay could discuss both similarities and differences, or it could just focus on one or the other. A comparison essay usually discusses the similarities between two things, while the contrast essay discusses the differences.

Cause/Effect:

Examples:A cause/effect essay may explain . . .

The cause/effect essay explains why or how some event happened, and what resulted from the event.

This essay is a study of the relationship between two or more events or experiences. The essay could discuss both causes and effects, or it could simply address one or the other. A cause essay usually discusses the reasons why something happened. An effect essay discusses what happens after a specific event or circumstance.

The example below shows a cause essay, one that would explain how and why an event happened.

If this cause essay were about a volcanic eruption, it might go something like this: “Pressure and heat built up beneath the earth’s surface; the effect of this was an enormous volcanic eruption.”

The next example shows an effect essay, one that would explain all the effects that happened after a specific event, like a volcanic eruption.

If this effect essay were about a volcanic eruption again, it might go something like this:

“The eruption caused many terrible things to happen; it destroyed homes, forests, and polluted the atmosphere.”

Examples:A narrative essay could tell of . . .

The narrative essay tells a story. It can also be called a “short story.” Generally, the narrative essay is conversational in style and tells of a personal experience. It is most commonly written in the first person (uses I ). This essay could tell of a single, life-shaping event, or simply a mundane daily experience.

Examples: A process essay may explain . . .

A process essay describes how something is done. It generally explains actions that should be performed in a series. It can explain in detail how to accomplish a specific task, or it can show how an individual came to a certain personal awareness. The essay could be in the form of step-by-step instructions, or in story form, with the instructions/explanations subtly given along the way.

Argumentative:

Examples: An argumentative essay may persuade a reader that . . .

An argumentative essay is one that attempts to persuade the reader to the writer’s point of view. The writer can either be serious or funny, but always tries to convince the reader of the validity of his or her opinion. The essay may argue openly, or it may attempt to subtly persuade the reader by using irony or sarcasm.

Examples: A critical essay may analyze . . .

A critical essay analyzes the strengths, weaknesses, and methods of someone else’s work. Generally, these essays begin with a brief overview of the main points of the text, movie, or piece of art, followed by an analysis of the work’s meaning. It should then discuss how well the author/creator accomplishes his/her goals and makes his/her points. A critical essay can be written about another essay, story, book, poem, movie, or work of art.

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15 Types of Essays (and What You Need To Know About Them)

• DESCRIPTION paper and pen icon with list of 15 types of essays
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Narrative essays narrate, argumentative essays argue, and expository essays … expose? Explain? (It’s a little of both). While these essays may use narrative, argumentative, and expository writing styles to make their points, they’re not the only types of essays to do so. In fact, there are 15 different types of essays — all of which narrate, argue, or explain something to their readers.

1. Narrative Essays

Narrative essays tell stories from your life or the lives of others. They’re told just like fictional short stories, with characters, a setting, a compelling plot, a climax, and a resolution. 

Narrative essays use the third person perspective (it happened to someone else) or the first person perspective (it happened to the writer). Narrative essays should be entertaining and engaging to read, so choose a narrative writing topic that speaks to you.

Narrative Essay Example Structure

When writing a narrative essay , a possible structure could include:

• Introduction - Hint at what you or the character learned
• Body - Tell the story from beginning to end, finishing in an exciting or compelling climax in the last body paragraph
• Conclusion - Reflect on what you or the character learned from the experience in the story

2. Argumentative Essays

Argumentative essays (also called argument essays ) investigate topics fairly and thoroughly to present the writer’s argument to the reader. The writer makes a claim and argues why evidence and logic support that claim in a well-structured essay.

Strong argumentative essays use rhetorical devices to strengthen their arguments, and they address the opposing argument (known as a counterclaim) as well. When choosing an argumentative essay topic , select an issue that you care about (or a topic you’d like to learn more about), and begin researching your position with reliable sources.

Argumentative Essay Structure Example

You can structure an argumentative essay like this:

• Introduction - Introduce the topic and your claim in a thesis statement
• Body - Support your position with evidence (and bring up counterclaims)
• Conclusion - Restate your claim and summarize how you proved it

3. Expository Essays

Expository essays use research and critical thinking to explain more about a topic. Newspaper articles are a type of expository essay — they provide information to the reader in a concise, factual way. Writing expository essays requires a straightforward outline, evidence-based conclusions, and a strong thesis statement.

Though expository writing reveals information, it’s not the same as technical writing . Expository essays “expose” the truth about a selected topic , not just the information about it.

Expository Essay Structure Example

Most expository essays follow a structure similar to this:

• Introduction - Introduce the topic and hint at a deeper truth
• Body - Explain more about the topic with evidence; expose the truth and/or implications of the topic in a final body paragraph
• Conclusion - Summarize the information and its larger meaning

4. Descriptive Essays

Like narrative essays, descriptive essays use narration to set a scene for the reader. But unlike narrative essays, descriptive essays don’t tell a story from beginning to end. If a painting could be an essay, it would be a descriptive essay — a written experience that you can almost see. 

Descriptive essays use lots of sensory details to describe the way something looks, sounds, smells, tastes, or feels. Well-written descriptive essays also use similes, metaphors, hyperboles, or other types of figurative language to pull their readers into the experience.

Descriptive Essay Structure Example

When writing a descriptive essay, you can follow this outline:

• Introduction - Introduce the topic you’re going to describe with an engaging, sensory hook sentence
• Body - Describe the topic with rich sensory detail and figurative language
• Conclusion - Summarize your essay and conclude with a memorable descriptive sentence

5. Persuasive Essays

Persuasive essay writers try to convince their readers to agree with them. You’ll find examples of persuasive writing in both essays and speeches when a speaker, writer, or politician wants the audience on their side.

When you write a persuasive essay, you use similar strategies as you would in an argumentative essay. But persuasive essays use personal anecdotes (stories about yourself or others) and emotional appeals rather than the logic and evidence you’ll find in an argumentative essay. They also include a call to action at the end that inspires their audience to act.

Persuasive Essay Structure Example

You can structure your persuasive essay in a similar way as your argumentative essay, with a few key differences.

• Introduction - Use an emotional evocative hook to get the reader interested in your position right away
• Body - Use personal anecdotes, dramatic language, and emotional appeals to get the reader on your side
• Conclusion - Finish with a call to action for your reader — what should they do now?

6. Informative Essays

Like expository essays, informative essays (also called informational essays ) inform their readers about a topic. But the main purpose of an informative essay is to educate the audience rather than to expose them to the truth.

Informative essays require lots of evidence and strong research. Be sure to choose an informative essay topic that interests you, since you’re going to learn a lot about it during the course of your writing.

Informative Essay Structure Example

Outline your informative essay structure in a straightforward, no-nonsense way.

• Introduction - Introduce the topic with a strong hook (such as an interesting fact or statistic)
• Body - Explain more about the topic with evidence
• Conclusion - Restate your thesis and conclude with a general statement about the topic

7. Personal Narrative Essays

Personal narrative essays (also called personal narratives ) are a form of narrative writing in which the writer explores how an experience affected or shaped them. They focus on a single event or theme in one’s life, and unlike narrative essays, personal narratives are always true (and always autobiographical).

College entrance essays are a type of personal narrative in which a college applicant considers how a event or person in their past helped them to become the person they are today. Another type of personal narrative is a memoir — a longer narrative about one’s own life.

Personal Narrative Structure Example

It’s tempting to write a personal narrative in an unstructured way, but having a solid structure is the key to writing a compelling personal narrative.

• Introduction - Set the scene, both in setting and tone (Where are we? When does it take place?)
• Body - Tell the story with rich detail, beginning to end, culminating in a meaningful climax
• Conclusion - Reflect on the experience and reveal how it shaped or changed you

8. Reflective Essays

Reflective essays explore an idea, concept, or observation from a writer’s point of view. They may include humor or emotional writing, but they should reveal a lot about the writer themselves (and about the reader).

Both reflective writing and personal narratives are forms of creative writing. But while reflective essays are personal, they don’t need to be written in a narrative format or tell a story. Think about a well-written journal entry — it probably doesn’t tell a story from start to finish, but explores the way something made the writer feel.

Reflective Essay Structure Example

Depending on your topic, reflective essays can be quite structured or more loosely organized. Generally, you can follow a standard format.

• Introduction - Introduce the topic with detail and a thesis statement
• Body - Reflect on the topic (also including detail)
• Conclusion - Restate the thesis statement in a conclusion about the topic

9. Synthesis Essays

Synthesis essays gather opinions, evidence, and proposals from various sources and present it to the reader as one document. They’re similar to argumentative essays (in that they present a claim) and informative essays (in that they present information), but the goal of a synthesis essay is first and foremost to compile a body of evidence.

That evidence may support the writer’s claim, or it may cause them to reexamine their thoughts about the topic. Either way, synthesis essays include a wealth of sources (all of which must be properly cited, of course).

Synthesis Essay Structure Example

You can structure your synthesis essay like an expository essay.

• Introduction - Hook the reader with a strong first sentence, then state your position in a thesis statement
• Body - Support your thesis with the wealth of evidence you have gathered from different sources
• Conclusion - Restate your thesis and summarize how you’ve supported your position

10. Definition Essays

Definition essays define a term or idea. These terms could be vocabulary words, technical terms, abstract concepts, historical words, or any other idea that a writer wants to define for the reader.

It seems like that may only get you a sentence or two, but a well-written definition essay does a lot more than look up word meanings. They can be expository when pointing out little-known facts or implications of the term, reflective when referring to important concepts, and even argumentative if the writer has a stance to defend.

Definition Essay Structure Example

Definition essays have straightforward outlines that make it easy for the reader to understand your meaning.

• Introduction - State the word or concept you’re defining in the first sentence, and provide a general definition in the thesis
• Body - Elaborate on the thesis statement with support, alternate definitions, and implications of the word or concept
• Conclusion - Restate the definition along with the ways you elaborated on it

11. Analytical Essays

Analytical essays analyze a topic with strong detail and critical thinking. Also known as critical analysis essays , they use a balanced approach to thoroughly analyze something, whether it’s a passage in a piece of writing (known as literary analysis or rhetorical analysis ), a an element from a scientific discovery, or an important historical event.

Like reflective writing, analytical writing is very detailed and focused on a single topic. While that topic may have larger implications in the essay (and it should), each sentence should connect back to the core of the analytical essay.

Analytical Essay Structure Example

Analytical essays should follow a strict outline that doesn’t detract from its thesis statement.

• Introduction - Introduce the topic and refer to the levels of analysis you’ve done on it
• Body - Start with your lowest level of analysis and build up to the highest level (preferably in your last body paragraph), tying every sentence back to the thesis
• Conclusion - Restate your thesis and levels of analysis

12. Compare and Contrast Essays

Compare and contrast essays are analytical essays that examine how two subjects are similar and different. These subjects can be two characters, two historical events, two concepts — any two topics that have similarities (compare) and differences (contrast). Compare and contrast essays often use expository writing to present the information in a thoughtful way.

When writing a compare and contrast essay , structure can be just as important as the essay’s thesis statement. Structuring your compare and contrast essay can highlight the ways your topics resemble and differ from each other. Thanks to the many compare and contrast essay topics available, you’ll never run out of things to compare (or contrast).

Compare and Contrast Essay Structure Example

Compare and contrast essays rely on a tight structure to analyze topics — but that structure may differ, depending on your topics.

• Introduction - Introduce the topic you’re comparing; find a creative and engaging way to state that they are similar but different in your thesis statement
• Body - Either analyze each characteristic in a body paragraph (Characteristic 1 of Topic 1 is different from Characteristic 1 of Topic 2), or analyze one entire topic before comparing and contrasting it with the second entire topic (Here are Characteristics 1, 2, and 3 of Topic 1; now, here are Characteristics 1, 2, and 3 of Topic 2)
• Conclusion - Restate your thesis and summarize your points

13. Cause and Effect Essays

Cause and effect essays , another type of analytical essay, use structure to show the relationship between an event and its consequences. These essays often explore historical events or plot points in a story, though cause and effect topics can vary by subject.

Depending on how you write your cause and effect essay , you can use expository writing to explain how one thing led to another, or you can argue a little-known element of the cause and effect relationship (such as a surprising event, or a seemingly unrelated consequence). 

Cause and Effect Essay Structure Example

Like compare and contrast essays, the structure of cause and effect essays depend on the topic you’re writing about and how you want to analyze it.

• Introduction - Introduce the topic and make your claim about how the event caused the effects in your thesis statement
• Body - Discuss the event in a paragraph before you discuss the effect, then defend your claim about how they’re related (or, you can spend the entire body section defending the claim, if that’s more reasonable for your topic)
• Conclusion - Restate the thesis and assert how you’ve proven your claim about the relationship between the cause and effect

14. Evaluation Essays

Evaluation essays use a measured, unbiased approach to evaluating a work, topic, product, or another subject. With sound evidence and reasoning, evaluation essays present the writer’s opinion about the subject. Movie reviews, book reviews , and sports columns are all types of evaluation essays.

Though evaluation essays do thoroughly analyze their subject (think of the detail included in a movie review), they go beyond analysis. You would write an evaluation essay  to present an educated and considered viewpoint, which should influence the reader when making up their own mind.

Evaluation Essay Structure Example

Your opinion is the claim in an evaluation essay, and just like any other claim, you need to defend it.

• Introduction - Introduce what you’re evaluating and state your evaluation in the thesis statement
• Body - Give an overview of what you’re evaluating (such as a summary), then defend your opinion with criteria, reasons, and evidence 
• Conclusion - Restate your opinion and final impressions

15. Process Essays

Process essays are a type of informational essay that explains how to do something (its process). They include a short introduction and conclusion, but the focus of the essay is on its steps and guiding the reader through the process.

Consider the process section of a recipe or instruction manual. A well-written process essay uses technical language to be as clear as possible, refrains from making an argument or claim, and only uses detail when being more specific.

Process Essay Structure Example

Process essays are some of the easiest to structure, since they go from beginning to end (much like narrative essays).

• Introduction - Introduce the topic and state your purpose in writing the essay
• Body - Write out the steps you need to take to complete the process (each paragraph can be one step, complete with tips and materials needed)
• Conclusion - Restate your purpose and what you’ve just taught your reader

Types of Essays Guide

Keeping all 15 types of essays straight can be a challenge. Let us help you keep them all straight with an infographic. 

• DESCRIPTION Types of Essays infographic
• SOURCE Created by YourDictionary - Images from Getty Images 
• PERMISSION Owned by YourDictionary, Copyright YourDictionary 

You’re on the Write Track

Once you know what type of essay you’re trying to write, there’s only one step left: writing the essay itself. For more tips and reference guides for writing all types of essays, check out:

• How to Write an Essay
• 20 Compelling Hook Examples for Essays
• How to Write an Effective Thesis Statement
• 5 Main Parts of an Essay: An Easy Guide to a Solid Structure
• Background Information Examples for Essays and Papers
• Types of Evidence to Use in Writing and Essays
• 10 Simple Tips on Essay Writing for College Students

Types of Essays

• July 8, 2024
• Dr. Marvin L. Smith

In school, you’ll write different types of essays , including analytical, argumentative, and more.

Each essay type needs different skills. For example, in a personal essay, you might use descriptive language to make it more interesting. In an analytical essay, you’ll think critically to solve a problem.

Essays can be long or short, and have different structures. Some essays are just a few paragraphs, while others are many pages long.

Let’s explore 14 types of essays. Knowing what makes each one unique will help you become a great essay writer.

Table of Contents

What are essays?

An essay is a type of writing that shares and explains a main idea or point of view on a specific topic.

Most essays have three main parts: an introduction, body paragraphs, and a conclusion. People write essays in school, at work, and even for fun to share their thoughts, analyze ideas, or try to convince readers.

Essays can be short or long, simple or complex, depending on who is reading them and why they are being written. Writing an essay is a great way to show what you know, think critically, and clearly communicate your ideas.

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14 types of essays

As we explore these 14 types of essays, keep in mind that each serves a unique purpose in writing. These categories often overlap and can be combined to achieve specific goals.

Learning about different essay types will help you write better in school and other situations.

Let’s begin our journey through the diverse landscape of essay writing.

Personal essays

A personal essay is a type of writing that comes from the writer’s own life. It’s a way to share important moments, thoughts, and feelings with others.

When you write a personal essay, you can talk about a big event or a challenge you faced. You write in a friendly tone, like you’re talking to someone. This helps readers feel connected to you and understand what you’re thinking and feeling.

Personal essays are often used when people apply to college. They help the college get to know the person who is applying and see if they would be a good fit for the school.

Example titles:

• The Day I Learned to Speak Up
• My Grandmother’s Recipe Box: A Legacy of Love
• Overcoming Stage Fright: My Journey to the Spotlight

Political essays

A political essay is a type of writing that talks about government policies, laws, and social issues. It’s a way to share your opinions and try to convince others to agree with you.

When you write a political essay, you might discuss a problem in society and how to fix it. You might also talk about a government policy and whether it’s good or bad. To support your ideas, you can use facts from history, current events, and what experts say.

You might analyze how a law affects people. You can compare different systems of government, or argue for a solution to a problem. To write a good political essay, you need to think critically, do research, and explain complex ideas in a clear and convincing way.

• The Evolution of Democracy in the Digital Age
• Climate Change Policy: A Bipartisan Approach
• Rethinking Electoral Systems: Proportional Representation vs. First-Past-the-Post

Related reading: Leadership essay examples

Persuasive essay

Persuasive essays are designed to convince the reader to adopt a particular viewpoint or take a specific action. 

When you write a persuasive essay, you need to clearly state your opinion. You need to provide good reasons and evidence to support it. You might use facts, expert quotes, or personal stories to make your argument stronger.

You also need to think about what others might say against your idea and be ready to answer their concerns. The goal is to persuade the reader to agree with you by using a mix of facts, feelings, and trustworthy sources.

Key features of persuasive essays include:

• A clear, debatable thesis statement
• Well-researched evidence to support claims
• Logical reasoning and coherent structure
• Addressing opposing viewpoints
• Strong concluding statements that reinforce the main argument
• Why Universal Basic Income Is Necessary in the Age of Automation
• The Case for Mandatory Voting in Democratic Nations
• Banning Single-Use Plastics: A Necessary Step for Environmental Protection

Cause and effect essays

A cause and effect essay is a type of writing that looks at how one thing can lead to another. It helps us understand why something happens and what happens as a result.

When you write a cause and effect essay, you need to figure out how one event or action can cause another event or action to happen. You need to think about the reasons behind what happened and how it affected things.

To write a good cause and effect essay, you need to show how the cause and effect are connected. You can use facts and logical thinking to help explain why things happened the way they did.

Key features of cause-and-effect essays include:

• Clear identification of causes and their corresponding effects
• Logical organization, either by causes, effects, or a combination of both
• Use of transitional phrases to show relationships (e.g., “as a result,” “consequently,” “due to”)
• Analysis of multiple causes or effects when appropriate
• Consideration of both immediate and long-term consequences
• The Impact of Social Media on Mental Health in Teenagers
• Climate Change: Causes and Consequences for Global Ecosystems
• The Ripple Effect of Economic Recessions on Employment and Consumer Behavior

Related reading: How to write a biographical essay?

Process essay

A process essay is a type of writing that tells the reader how to do something or how something works. It’s like a recipe or a set of instructions. These are also know as “how-to essays”/.

When you write a process essay, you need to break down a big task into smaller, easy-to-follow steps. You want to make it clear and simple so the reader can do it too. Your goal is to help the reader understand how to do something or how something happens, step by step.

Key features of process essays include:

A clear introduction that outlines the process and its purpose

• Chronological organization of steps
• Use of transitional words and phrases to guide the reader (e.g., “first,” “next,” “then”)
• Detailed explanations of each step, including any necessary materials or tools
• Tips or warnings for potential challenges in the process
• How to Create a Successful Social Media Marketing Strategy
• The Step-by-Step Process of Photosynthesis in Plants
• Mastering the Art of Sourdough Bread: A Beginner’s Guide

Reflective essay

A reflective essay is a type of writing that helps you think about what you’ve learned or experienced. It’s like looking back on something that happened and thinking about what it meant to you.

When you write a reflective essay, you need to think about your thoughts and feelings about something. You might write about what you learned, what you liked or didn’t like, and how it changed you. The goal is to show how you’ve grown or learned something new by thinking deeply about your experiences.

Key features of reflective essays include:

• A clear introduction that sets the context for the reflection
• Vivid descriptions of the experience or event being reflected upon
• Honest and open exploration of personal thoughts and emotions
• Analysis of how the experience has impacted the writer’s understanding or behavior
• Consideration of lessons learned or insights gained
• How My Volunteer Experience Changed My Perspective on Community Service
• Reflecting on My First Year of Teaching: Challenges and Growth
• The Impact of Cultural Immersion: My Study Abroad Journey

Descriptive essay

A descriptive essay is a type of writing that uses words to create a picture in the reader’s mind. It’s like painting a picture with words.

When you write a descriptive essay, you need to use details that appeal to the reader’s senses, like what they see, hear, taste, touch, and smell. You want to help the reader imagine and feel like they’re right there with you. The goal is to make the reader feel something and understand what you’re writing about in a way that’s interesting and exciting.

Key features of descriptive essays include:

• Rich, evocative language that appeals to the five senses (sight, sound, smell, taste, and touch)
• Use of figurative language such as metaphors, similes, and personification
• Careful selection of specific details to create a strong impression
• Organized structure that guides the reader through the description logically
• A clear focus or purpose that unifies the descriptive elements
• The Hidden Wonders of a Coral Reef: A Diver’s Perspective
• A Walk Through the Streets of Paris at Twilight
• The Unforgettable Aroma and Atmosphere of My Grandmother’s Kitchen

Argumentative essay

An argumentative essay is a type of writing that takes a stand on a topic that people might disagree about. You’re trying to convince the reader that your point of view is the right one.

When you write an argumentative essay, you need to use good reasons and facts to support your opinion. You also need to think about what others might say against your idea and be ready to answer their questions. This type of essay helps you develop strong thinking skills and learn how to make a good case for what you believe in.

Key features of argumentative essays include:

• A clear thesis statement that presents the writer’s position on the issue
• Well-researched evidence to support the main argument
• Logical reasoning and analysis to connect evidence to the thesis
• Acknowledgment and refutation of counterarguments
• A strong conclusion that reinforces the main points and calls the reader to action or further thought
• The Case for Renewable Energy: Why We Must Transition Away from Fossil Fuels
• Should Social Media Platforms Be Held Responsible for User Content?
• The Benefits of a Four-Day Work Week: Improving Productivity and Work-Life Balance

Analytical essay

An analytical essay helps you understand something better by breaking it down into smaller parts. It’s like taking something apart to see how it works.

When you write an analytical essay, you need to look closely at the different parts of a topic, text, or idea. You’re trying to figure out what they mean and how they fit together. The goal is to come up with a new understanding or a fresh way of looking at something. You’re helping the reader see things in a new light by showing them the details and how they add up.

Key features of analytical essays include:

• A clear thesis statement that outlines the main focus of the analysis
• Systematic breakdown of the subject into its constituent parts
• Objective examination of evidence and information
• Logical reasoning to draw connections and identify patterns
• Interpretation of findings to support the thesis
• Analyzing the Symbolism in F. Scott Fitzgerald’s ‘The Great Gatsby’
• The Impact of Social Media on Modern Political Campaigns: A Data-Driven Analysis
• Deconstructing the Success Factors of Tech Start-ups in Silicon Valley

Critical Analysis essay

A critical analysis essay is a type of writing that helps you think deeply about something and make a judgment about it. It’s like being a reviewer, evaluating if something is good or not.

When you write a critical analysis essay, you need to look closely at the good and bad parts of a book, idea, or event. You’re trying to figure out what works and what doesn’t, and then make a decision about it. You need to use good reasons and evidence to support your opinion, and be fair in your judgment. The goal is to help the reader understand the subject better and see it from your point of view.

Key features of critical analysis essays include:

• A clear thesis statement that presents the writer’s overall evaluation
• Thorough examination of the subject’s components, techniques, or methodologies
• Evaluation of the effectiveness or validity of the subject’s elements
• Consideration of context, including historical, cultural, or theoretical frameworks
• A balanced discussion of both strengths and weaknesses
• Support for judgments with evidence and logical reasoning
• A Critical Analysis of Christopher Nolan’s ‘Inception’: Blurring the Lines Between Reality and Dreams
• Evaluating the Effectiveness of Remote Learning During the COVID-19 Pandemic
• The Evolution of Feminist Theory: A Critical Examination of Key Thinkers and Movements

Related reading: How to write an evaluative essay?

Expository essay

An expository essay helps readers learn about a topic. It’s like writing a report to explain something to someone who doesn’t know about it.

When you write an expository essay, you need to give facts and information about the topic. You’re trying to help the reader understand it better, not convince them of a certain point of view. You should present both sides of the story and be fair. The goal is to teach the reader something new and make the topic clear and easy to understand.

Key features of expository essays include:

• A clear thesis statement that outlines the main topic to be explained
• Logical organization of ideas, often using cause-and-effect, compare-and-contrast, or step-by-step structures
• Factual information from reliable sources to support explanations
• Objective tone without personal opinions or biases
• Clear and concise language to ensure reader comprehension
• The Process of Photosynthesis: How Plants Convert Sunlight into Energy
• The Structure and Function of the United Nations: A Comprehensive Overview
• Understanding Blockchain Technology: Its Mechanics and Applications  

Compare and contrast essays

A compare and contrast essay helps you think about how two or more things are alike and different. It’s like putting two things side by side to see what they have in common and what makes them unique.

When you write a compare and contrast essay, you need to look closely at the things you’re comparing. You need to look for the things that are same and that are different in both. You’re trying to figure out how they relate to each other and what that means. You need to think critically and come up with interesting and important points to make about the similarities and differences. The goal is to help the reader understand the things you’re comparing in a new and interesting way.

Key features of compare and contrast essays include:

• A clear thesis statement that outlines the subjects being compared and the purpose of the comparison
• Systematic analysis of similarities and differences between the subjects
• Logical organization, typically using either a point-by-point or subject-by-subject structure
• Use of transition words and phrases to highlight comparisons and contrasts
• A balanced treatment of both similarities and differences
• A conclusion that synthesizes the comparison and offers meaningful insights
• Democracy vs. Autocracy: A Comparative Analysis of Governance Systems
• Traditional Education vs. Online Learning: Comparing Effectiveness and Accessibility
• The Renaissance and the Enlightenment: Contrasting Intellectual Movements  

Related reading: How to write a satire essay?

Definition essays

A definition essay is a type of writing that helps you understand what a word or idea really means. It’s like looking up a word in the dictionary, but then going much deeper to figure out what it’s all about.

When you write a definition essay, you need to explore the word or idea from different angles. You might look at where it came from, how it’s changed over time, and how people use it today. You’re trying to give the reader a complete picture of what the word or idea means, and what it’s all about. It’s not about giving a simple definition, but about helping the reader understand the subject.

Key features of definition essays include:

A clear thesis statement that introduces the term to be defined and hints at the essay’s approach

• Exploration of multiple aspects of the term, including denotation, connotation, and etymology
• Use of various definition strategies such as function, structure, analysis, or negation
• Inclusion of examples, anecdotes, or analogies to illustrate the concept
• Discussion of how the term is understood in different contexts or disciplines
• Consideration of how the definition might evolve or be contested
• Defining Freedom: Personal Liberty in the Modern World
• The Evolving Concept of Family in Contemporary Society
• Artificial Intelligence: Redefining Human-Machine Interaction

An expository essay is a type of writing that helps readers learn about a topic. Its job is to explain, describe, or give information about something in a clear and fair way.

When you write an expository essay, you’re not trying to convince the reader of your opinion. Instead, you’re trying to teach them about the topic and give them the facts. You want to show both sides of the story and be neutral. The main goal is to help the reader understand the topic better by giving them good information.

• Understanding Blockchain Technology: Its Mechanics and Application s

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Essays help you share your ideas and connect with others. Mastering different types of essays can help you express yourself, persuade others, and analyze information.

All good essays have a clear structure, strong arguments, and a confident writer’s voice. By writing essays, you’ll improve your writing, critical thinking, and creativity. These skills will help you succeed in school and beyond.

Frequently asked questions

What are the five main types of essays.

The five main types of essays are:

• Narrative Essays: Tell a story or recount a personal experience.
• Descriptive Essays: Provide a detailed description of a person, place, object, or event.
• Expository Essays: Explain or inform about a topic in a clear, concise manner.
• Persuasive Essays: Convince the reader to adopt a particular viewpoint or take a specific action.
• Argumentative Essays: Present a claim and support it with evidence and logical reasoning.

What are the four (4) main kinds of essays?

The four main kinds of essays, often referred to as the “four modes of discourse,” are:

• Narrative: Tells a story or recounts an experience.
• Descriptive: Paints a vivid picture with words, appealing to the senses.
• Expository: Explains or informs about a topic objectively.
• Persuasive/Argumentative: Aims to convince the reader of a particular point of view.

These four types form the foundation for most essay writing and are often combined or adapted to create other essay formats.

What is a discursive essay?

A discursive essay is a type of formal writing that explores a subject from multiple perspectives.

Key characteristics include:

• Objective examination of a topic, considering various viewpoints
• Balanced presentation of arguments for and against a particular issue
• Use of evidence and logical reasoning to support different positions
• Neutral tone, avoiding personal bias
• Conclusion that may summarize the arguments or offer a personal opinion

How many types of process essays are there?

There are generally two types of process essays:

• Directional Process Essays: These provide step-by-step instructions on how to do something. They are like a recipe or a manual, guiding the reader through a series of actions to achieve a specific result.
• Informational Process Essays: These explain how something works or how something happens. They focus on providing information about a process rather than instructing the reader to perform it.

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Complete Guide to the 10 Main Types of Essays for Students

Welcome to the wonderful world of essay writing! Throughout your academic journey, knowing how to express your thoughts, ideas and opinions through the medium of essay writing will be super important. Whether you’re dealing with an assignment for your English class or any other school subject, it’s crucial to understand the different types of essays and when to use them.

The 10 Main Essay Types Explained

1. narrative essays.

Purpose : Narrative essays weave stories, allowing writers to share personal experiences, lessons learned, or memorable moments, aiming to entertain or convey a particular message.

Usage : Often employed in personal statements for college or graduate school applications, where the goal is to provide a glimpse into the writer’s character.

Structure Example :

• Introduction : Captivate the reader’s attention with an engaging opening that hints at the central theme.
• Body : Chronicle the events in chronological order, utilising literary techniques such as metaphors, alliteration, and dialogue.
• Conclusion : Summarise the main point or highlight the significance of the narrative, reinforcing the central message.

2. Descriptive Essays

Purpose : To vividly depict a subject, be it a person, place, thing, or event, invoking sensory experiences and creating a vivid picture for the reader.

Usage : Ideal for creating a detailed portrayal without necessarily constructing a complete story; often used in travel writing or to enhance the understanding of a specific concept.

• Introduction : Set the scene and establish the focus, providing a clear overview of what the reader is about to experience.
• Body : Utilise vivid imagery, actions, thoughts, and emotions to immerse the reader, using strong action verbs and descriptive adjectives.
• Conclusion : Summarise and leave a lasting impression, emphasising the overall impact of the described subject.

3. Expository Essays

Purpose : Expository essays provide a neutral explanation of a topic, demonstrating the writer’s knowledge or expertise, with the goal of informing or educating the audience.

Usage : Frequently assigned by teachers to assess understanding without incorporating personal opinions; common in academic and informational contexts.

• Introduction : Introduce the topic with a clear thesis statement that outlines the specific aspect to be explored.
• Body : Present factual information, often citing sources for credibility, using clear and concise language.
• Conclusion : Summarise the main points without introducing personal biases, leaving the reader with a comprehensive understanding.

4. Definition Essays

Purpose : Definition essays define and analyse complex or abstract terms or ideas in-depth, aiming to provide clarity and insight.

Usage : Commonly found in academic and research settings, where the goal is to delve into the nuances of a particular concept.

• Introduction : Clearly define the term or idea to be explored, providing context for the audience.
• Body : Offer a detailed analysis, examples, and explanations, breaking down the components of the term.
• Conclusion : Summarise the key points and reiterate the definition, ensuring the audience grasps the full scope of the concept.

5. Process Essays

Purpose : Process essays explain how to do something or how something works, guiding the reader through a series of steps to achieve a specific outcome.

Usage : Employed for instructional purposes, suitable for topics ranging from recipes and DIY projects to scientific procedures.

• Introduction : Introduce the process to be described, setting the stage for the step-by-step guidance.
• Body : Sequentially detail each step, using transition words for clarity and logical progression.
• Conclusion : Summarise the process for reader retention, reinforcing the significance of the final outcome.

6. Compare and Contrast Essays

Purpose : Compare and contrast essays discuss the similarities and differences between two subjects, aiming to highlight unique aspects and foster a deeper understanding.

Usage : Common in academic settings for analytical comparison, frequently used in literature, history, or scientific analysis.

• Introduction : Present the subjects to be compared, providing a brief overview of their significance.
• Body : Devote paragraphs to similarities and differences, using clear transitions for smooth readability.
• Conclusion : Summarise the key points and highlight the significance of the comparison, drawing attention to the insights gained.

7. Argumentative Essays

Purpose : Argumentative essays convince the reader to adopt a particular viewpoint based on objective information, using logical reasoning and evidence.

Usage : Rely on facts rather than emotions to sway opinions; often found in academic settings and editorials.

• Introduction : Present the argument with a clear thesis, outlining the stance to be defended.
• Body : Provide factual evidence and counterarguments, presenting a well-rounded perspective.
• Conclusion : Summarise the key points and reinforce the chosen stance, leaving a lasting impression on the reader.

8. Persuasive Essays

Purpose : Persuasive essays aim to persuade readers to adopt a specific opinion or take a particular stance using facts and emotional appeals, aiming to evoke a personal connection.

Usage : Employ moral and emotional reasoning to connect with the reader, often found in opinion pieces and marketing.

• Introduction : Clearly state the opinion or stance to be supported, capturing the reader’s attention.
• Body : Present facts and emotional appeals, crafting a compelling narrative to strengthen the argument.
• Conclusion : Reinforce the argument and call the reader to action, leaving them with a sense of urgency or agreement.

9. Cause and Effect Essays

Purpose : Cause and effect essays detail the causal relationship between events or situations, explaining why certain events or circumstances led to others.

Usage : Examine the consequences and implications of specific actions or occurrences, frequently found in scientific, historical, or sociological contexts.

• Introduction : Clearly state the cause and effect relationship, providing context for the audience.
• Body : Elaborate on the features of the initiating event and its consequences, using evidence to support claims.
• Conclusion : Summarise the key cause-and-effect connections, emphasising their broader significance.

10. Critical Essays

Purpose : Critical essays provide an in-depth analysis and critique of a topic, often found in literature and humanities courses, testing students’ ability to think critically.

Usage : Assess the ability to think critically and identify evidence from a specific work that validates observations, common in literary analysis or art criticism.

• Introduction : Introduce the subject to be critiqued, providing context for the analysis.
• Body : Analyse and support opinions with evidence, diving into specific aspects of the subject.
• Conclusion : Summarise the critical points and reiterate the analysis, leaving the reader with a comprehensive understanding of the critique.

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