<–2/”>a >Though the word essay has come to be understood as a type of writing in Modern English, its origins provide us with some useful insights. The word comes into the English language through the French influence on Middle English; tracing it back further, we find that the French form of the word comes from the Latin verb exigere, which means “to examine, test, or (literally) to drive out.” Through the excavation of this ancient word, we are able to unearth the essence of the academic essay: to encourage students to test or examine their ideas concerning a particular topic.
Essays are shorter pieces of writing that often require the student to hone a number of skills such as close reading, analysis, comparison and contrast, Persuasion, conciseness, clarity, and exposition. As is evidenced by this list of attributes, there is much to be gained by the student who strives to succeed at essay writing. The purpose of an essay is to encourage students to develop ideas and concepts in their writing with the direction of little more than their own thoughts (it may be helpful to view the essay as the converse of a research paper). Therefore, essays are (by nature) concise and require clarity in purpose and direction. This means that there is no room for the student’s thoughts to wander or stray from his or her purpose; the writing must be deliberate and interesting.
Types of essay
Expository Essays
The expository essay is a genre of essay that requires the student to investigate an idea, evaluate evidence, expound on the idea, and set forth an argument concerning that idea in a clear and concise manner. This can be accomplished through comparison and contrast, definition, example, the analysis of cause and effect, etc.
The structure of the expository essay is held together by the following:
- A clear, concise, and defined thesis statement that occurs in the first paragraph of the essay. It is essential that this thesis statement be appropriately narrowed to follow the guidelines set forth in the assignment. If the student does not master this portion of the essay, it will be quite difficult to compose an effective or persuasive essay.
- Clear and logical transitions between the introduction, body, and conclusion. Transitions are the mortar that holds the foundation of the essay together. Without logical progression of thought, the reader is unable to follow the essay’s argument, and the structure will collapse.
- Body paragraphs: that include evidential support. Each paragraph should be limited to the exposition of one general idea. This will allow for clarity and direction throughout the essay. What is more, such conciseness creates an ease of readability for one’s audience. It is important to note that each paragraph in the body of the essay must have some logical connection to the thesis statement in the opening paragraph.
- Evidential support (whether factual, logical, statistical, or anecdotal): Often times, students are required to write expository essays with little or no preparation; therefore, such essays do not typically allow for a great deal of statistical or factual evidence.
- A bit of creativity: Though creativity and artfulness are not always associated with essay writing, it is an art form nonetheless. Try not to get stuck on the formulaic nature of expository writing at the expense of writing something interesting. Remember, though you may not be crafting the next great novel, you are attempting to leave a lasting impression on the people evaluating your essay.
Descriptive Essays
The descriptive essay is a genre of essay that asks the student to describe something—object, person, place, experience, emotion, situation, etc. This genre encourages the student’s ability to create a written account of a particular experience. What is more, this genre allows for a great deal of artistic freedom (the goal of which is to paint an image that is vivid and moving in the mind of the reader).
Some guidelines for writing a descriptive essay
Take time to brainstorm
If your instructor asks you to describe your favorite food, make sure that you jot down some ideas before you begin describing it. For instance, if you choose pizza, you might start by writing down a few words: sauce, cheese, crust, pepperoni, sausage, spices, hot, melted, etc. Once you have written down some words, you can begin by compiling descriptive lists for each one.
Use clear and concise language
This means that words are chosen carefully, particularly for their relevancy in relation to that which you are intending to describe.
Use your senses
Remember, if you are describing something, you need to be appealing to the senses of the reader. Explain how the thing smelled, felt, sounded, tasted, or looked. Embellish the moment with senses.
What were you thinking
If you can describe emotions or feelings related to your topic, you will connect with the reader on a deeper level. Many have felt crushing loss in their lives, or ecstatic joy, or mild complacency. Tap into this emotional reservoir in order to achieve your full descriptive potential.
Leave the reader with a clear impression
One of your goals is to evoke a strong sense of familiarity and appreciation in the reader. If your reader can walk away from the essay craving the very pizza you just described, you are on your way to writing effective descriptive essays.
Be organized
It is easy to fall into an incoherent rambling of emotions and senses when writing a descriptive essay. However, you must strive to present an organized and logical description if the reader is to come away from the essay with a cogent sense of what it is you are attempting to describe.
Narrative Essays
When writing a narrative essay, one might think of it as telling a story. These essays are often anecdotal, experiential, and personal—allowing students to express themselves in a creative and, quite often, moving ways. Here are some guidelines for writing a narrative essay.
Here are some guidelines for writing a narrative essay.
If written as a story, the essay should include all the parts of a story
This means that you must include an introduction, plot, characters, setting, climax, and conclusion.
When would a narrative essay not be written as a story?
A good example of this is when an instructor asks a student to write a book report. Obviously, this would not necessarily follow the pattern of a story and would focus on providing an informative narrative for the reader.
The essay should be written from a clear point of view.
It is quite common for narrative essays to be written from the standpoint of the author; however, this is not the sole perspective to be considered. Creativity in narrative essays oftentimes manifests itself in the form of authorial perspective.
Use clear and concise language throughout the essay.
Much like the descriptive essay, narrative essays are effective when the language is carefully, particularly, and artfully chosen. Use specific language to evoke specific emotions and senses in the reader.
Be organized
Have a clear introduction that sets the tone for the remainder of the essay. Do not leave the reader guessing about the purpose of your narrative. Remember, you are in control of the essay, so guide it where you desire (just make sure your audience can follow your lead).
Argumentative essay
The argumentative essay is a genre of writing that requires the student to investigate a topic; collect, generate, and evaluate evidence; and establish a position on the topic in a concise manner.
Argumentative essay assignments generally call for extensive research of literature or previously published material. Argumentative assignments may also require empirical research where the student collects data through interviews, surveys, observations, or experiments. Detailed research allows the student to learn about the topic and to understand different points of view regarding the topic so that she/he may choose a position and support it with the evidence collected during research. Regardless of the amount or type of research involved, argumentative essays must establish a clear thesis and follow Sound reasoning.
The structure of the argumentative essay is held together by the following.
A clear, concise, and defined thesis statement that occurs in the first paragraph of the essay.
In the first paragraph of an argument essay, students should set the context by reviewing the topic in a general way. Next the author should explain why the topic is important (exigence) or why readers should care about the issue. Lastly, students should present the thesis statement. It is essential that this thesis statement be appropriately narrowed to follow the guidelines set forth in the assignment. If the student does not master this portion of the essay, it will be quite difficult to compose an effective or persuasive essay.
Clear and logical transitions between the introduction, body, and conclusion
Transitions are the mortar that holds the foundation of the essay together. Without logical progression of thought, the reader is unable to follow the essay’s argument, and the structure will collapse. Transitions should wrap up the idea from the previous section and introduce the idea that is to follow in the next section.
Body paragraphs that include evidential support
Each paragraph should be limited to the discussion of one general idea. This will allow for clarity and direction throughout the essay. In addition, such conciseness creates an ease of readability for one’s audience. It is important to note that each paragraph in the body of the essay must have some logical connection to the thesis statement in the opening paragraph. Some paragraphs will directly support the thesis statement with evidence collected during research. It is also important to explain how and why the evidence supports the thesis.
However, argumentative essays should also consider and explain differing points of view regarding the topic. Depending on the length of the assignment, students should dedicate one or two paragraphs of an argumentative essay to discussing conflicting opinions on the topic. Rather than explaining how these differing opinions are wrong outright, students should note how opinions that do not align with their thesis might not be well informed or how they might be out of date.
Evidential support (whether factual, logical, statistical, or anecdotal)
The argumentative essay requires well-researched, accurate, detailed, and current information to support the thesis statement and consider other points of view. Some factual, logical, statistical, or anecdotal evidence should support the thesis. However, students must consider multiple points of view when collecting evidence. As noted in the paragraph above, a successful and well-rounded argumentative essay will also discuss opinions not aligning with the thesis. It is unethical to exclude evidence that may not support the thesis. It is not the student’s job to point out how other positions are wrong outright, but rather to explain how other positions may not be well informed or up to date on the topic.
A conclusion that does not simply restate the thesis, but readdresses it in Light of the evidence provided
It is at this point of the essay that students may begin to struggle. This is the portion of the essay that will leave the most immediate impression on the mind of the reader. Therefore, it must be effective and logical. Do not introduce any new information into the conclusion; rather, synthesize the information presented in the body of the essay. Restate why the topic is important, review the main points, and review your thesis. You may also want to include a short discussion of more research that should be completed in light of your work.
Using quotes in essays
Some very popular quotes used in essays
- The only good is knowledge and the only evil is ignorance – Socrates
- A people that value its privileges above its principles soon loses both – Dwight D. Eisenhower
- In theory, there is no difference between theory and practice. But in practice, there is – Yogi Berra
- A little inaccuracy can sometimes save a ton of explanation – H.H Munro
- Any intelligent fool can make things bigger, more complex and more violent. It takes a touch of genius – and a lot of courage – to move in the opposite direction – E. F. Schumacher
- A consensus means that everyone agrees to say collectively what no one believes individually – Abba Eban
- Non-cooperation with evil is as much a duty as is cooperation with good – Mohandas Gandhi
- Whatever government is not a government of laws, is a despotism, let it be called what it may – Daniel Webster
- Good people do not need laws to tell them to act responsibly, while bad people will find a way around the laws – Plato
- Far and away the best prize that life offers is the chance to work hard at work worth doing – Theodore Roosevelt
- It is dangerous to be right, when the government is wrong – Voltaire
- The will of the people is the only legitimate foundation of any government, and to protect its free expression should be our first object – Thomas Jefferson
- No nation is fit to sit in judgment upon any other nation – Woodrow Wilson (28th U.S President)
- The artist is nothing without the gift, but the gift is nothing without work – Emile Zola
- The world is full of educated derelicts – Calvin Coolidge
- A lie gets halfway around the world before the truth has a change to get its pants on – Winston Churchill
- It’s not the size of the dog in the fight, it’s the size of the fight in the dog – Mark Twain
- Life contains but two tragedies. One is not to get your heart’s desire, the other is to get it – Socrates
- If Women didn’t exist, all the Money in the world would have no meaning – Aristotle Onasis
- Men are not disturbed by things, but the view they take of things – Epictetus
Few Model Essays are to be Uploaded soon,
How to Write an Effective Essay
An essay is a piece of writing that addresses a particular topic or issue. It is typically written to persuade the reader to agree with the author’s point of view. Essays can be formal or informal, and they can be written in a variety of styles.
To write an effective essay, you need to choose a good topic, do your research, create an outline, write a strong introduction, write well-organized and supported body paragraphs, write a strong conclusion, and proofread your essay.
- Choose a good topic.
Your topic should be something that you are interested in and that you have some knowledge about. It should also be something that you can write about in a clear and concise way.
- Do your research.
Once you have chosen a topic, you need to do some research to gather information. This information will help you to write a well-informed essay.
- Create an outline.
An outline will help you to organize your thoughts and to ensure that your essay has a clear structure.
- Write a strong introduction.
Your introduction should grab the reader’s attention and introduce the topic of your essay.
- Body paragraphs should be well-organized and supported by evidence.
Each body paragraph should focus on one main point. You should provide evidence to support your points, such as facts, statistics, examples, and expert opinions.
- Write a strong conclusion.
Your conclusion should restate the main points of your essay and leave the reader with something to think about.
- Proofread your essay.
Once you have finished writing your essay, you need to proofread it carefully to catch any errors in grammar, spelling, and punctuation.
Here is an example of an essay that follows these steps:
Topic: The Importance of Education
Introduction:
Education is one of the most important things in life. It is the key to success in many areas, including career, relationships, and personal development. Education can help you to learn new things, develop new skills, and grow as a person.
Body Paragraph 1:
Education can help you to get a good job. In today’s economy, most jobs require some level of education. A college degree is often required for professional jobs, and even entry-level jobs may require a high school diploma or GED. Education can help you to develop the skills and knowledge that you need to be successful in the workplace.
Body Paragraph 2:
Education can help you to build relationships. Education can help you to meet new people and develop new friendships. It can also help you to learn about different cultures and perspectives. Education can help you to become a more well-rounded person and to connect with others on a deeper level.
Body Paragraph 3:
Education can help you to grow as a person. Education can help you to learn about yourself and the world around you. It can help you to develop your critical thinking skills and to become a more independent thinker. Education can help you to become a more well-informed citizen and to make informed decisions about your life.
Conclusion:
In conclusion, education is one of the most important things in life. It can help you to get a good job, build relationships, and grow as a person. If you are not currently pursuing education, I encourage you to do so. It is an Investment that will pay off for the rest of your life.
This is just a brief overview of how to write an effective essay. For more information, you can consult a writing guide or take a writing class.
How to write an effective essay
An essay is a piece of writing that addresses a particular topic or issue. It is typically written to persuade the reader to agree with the author’s point of view. Essays can be formal or informal, and they can be written in a variety of styles.
To write an effective essay, you must first choose a topic that you are interested in and that you know something about. Once you have chosen a topic, you need to do some research to gather information and evidence to support your argument.
After you have gathered your research, you need to organize your thoughts and ideas. This will help you to write a clear and concise essay. You should also create an outline to help you structure your essay.
Once you have organized your thoughts, you can begin writing your essay. Be sure to introduce your topic and your thesis statement in the introduction. The body of your essay should provide evidence to support your thesis statement. The conclusion should restate your thesis statement and summarize your main points.
When you are finished writing your essay, be sure to proofread it carefully for any errors in grammar, spelling, or punctuation. You should also ask someone else to read your essay to get feedback.
Frequently asked questions
- What is an essay?
An essay is a piece of writing that addresses a particular topic or issue. It is typically written to persuade the reader to agree with the author’s point of view. Essays can be formal or informal, and they can be written in a variety of styles.
- What are the different types of essays?
There are many different types of essays, but some of the most common include:
- Argumentative essays: These essays take a position on a controversial issue and attempt to persuade the reader to agree with the author’s point of view.
- Expository essays: These essays explain or define a concept or idea.
- Narrative essays: These essays tell a story from the author’s point of view.
-
Descriptive essays: These essays describe a person, place, or thing in vivid detail.
-
How do I choose a topic for my essay?
When choosing a topic for your essay, it is important to select something that you are interested in and that you know something about. You should also make sure that the topic is narrow enough to be covered in the length of your essay.
- How do I do research for my essay?
There are many different ways to do research for your essay. You can use books, articles, websites, and interviews to gather information and evidence to support your argument.
- How do I organize my thoughts for my essay?
Once you have gathered your research, you need to organize your thoughts and ideas. This will help you to write a clear and concise essay. You should also create an outline to help you structure your essay.
- How do I write an introduction for my essay?
The introduction of your essay should introduce your topic and your thesis statement. It should also provide some background information on the topic and explain why it is important.
- How do I write the body of my essay?
The body of your essay should provide evidence to support your thesis statement. You should use evidence from your research to support your claims. You should also use transitions to connect your ideas and make your essay flow smoothly.
- How do I write a conclusion for my essay?
The conclusion of your essay should restate your thesis statement and summarize your main points. It should also leave the reader with something to think about.
- How do I proofread my essay?
When you are finished writing your essay, be sure to proofread it carefully for any errors in grammar, spelling, or punctuation. You should also ask someone else to read your essay to get feedback.
- What are some common mistakes to avoid when writing an essay?
Some common mistakes to avoid when writing an essay include:
- Not having a clear thesis statement
- Not providing enough evidence to support your claims
- Not using transitions to connect your ideas
- Making grammar, spelling, or punctuation errors
- Not proofreading your essay carefully
-
Which of the following is not a part of an essay?
(A) Introduction
(B) Body
(C) Conclusion
(D) Title -
The introduction of an essay should:
(A) Introduce the topic of the essay
(B) State the thesis statement
(C) Provide background information on the topic
(D) All of the above -
The body of an essay should:
(A) Support the thesis statement with evidence
(B) Use evidence to refute opposing arguments
(C) Use evidence to explain the topic in more detail
(D) All of the above -
The conclusion of an essay should:
(A) Restate the thesis statement
(B) Summarize the main points of the essay
(C) Leave the reader with a final thought or question
(D) All of the above -
Which of the following is not a type of evidence that can be used in an essay?
(A) Facts
(B) Statistics
(C) Opinions
(D) Examples -
Which of the following is not a type of essay?
(A) Argumentative essay
(B) Expository essay
(C) Narrative essay
(D) Descriptive essay -
An argumentative essay is an essay that:
(A) Takes a position on an issue
(B) Presents evidence to support that position
(C) Refutes opposing arguments
(D) All of the above -
An expository essay is an essay that:
(A) Explains a concept or idea
(B) Provides information about a topic
(C) Analyzes a topic
(D) All of the above -
A narrative essay is an essay that:
(A) Tells a story
(B) Describes an event or experience
(C) Creates a vivid picture in the reader’s mind
(D) All of the above -
A descriptive essay is an essay that:
(A) Describes a person, place, or thing
(B) Creates a vivid picture in the reader’s mind
(C) Uses sensory details to engage the reader
(D) All of the above