<–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
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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 classified into four main types: argumentative, expository, narrative, and descriptive.
An argumentative essay takes a position on a controversial issue and tries to persuade the reader to agree with the author’s point of view. An expository essay explains or defines a concept or idea. A narrative essay tells a story. A descriptive essay describes a person, place, or thing.
To write an effective essay, you must first choose a topic that you are interested in and that you have some knowledge about. Once you have chosen a topic, you need to do some research to gather information. You can find information in books, articles, websites, and interviews.
After you have gathered your information, you need to organize it into a logical structure. The introduction should introduce the topic and state the thesis statement. The body paragraphs should support the thesis statement with evidence from your research. The conclusion should restate the thesis statement and summarize the main points of the essay.
When writing your essay, you need to use clear and concise language. You should also avoid using jargon or technical terms that your reader may not understand. You should also use evidence from your research to support your claims.
Finally, you need to proofread your essay carefully before submitting it. You should check for errors in grammar, spelling, and punctuation. You should also make sure that your essay is formatted according to the guidelines provided by your instructor.
Following these tips will help you write an effective essay that will persuade your reader to agree with your point of view.
Here are some additional tips for writing an effective essay:
- Choose a topic that you are interested in. This will make the writing process more enjoyable and will help you produce a more well-written essay.
- Do your research. Make sure you have a good understanding of the topic before you start writing.
- Organize your thoughts. Create an outline to help you structure your essay.
- Write a strong introduction. The introduction should grab the reader’s attention and introduce the topic of the essay.
- Support your claims with evidence. Use facts, statistics, and examples to support your points.
- Use clear and concise language. Avoid using jargon or technical terms that your reader may not understand.
- Proofread your essay carefully. Make sure there are no errors in grammar, spelling, or punctuation.
Following these tips will help you write an effective essay that will impress your instructor and earn you a good grade.
Here are some frequently asked questions about essays, with short answers:
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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. -
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.
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Descriptive essays: These essays describe a person, place, or thing in vivid detail.
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What are the steps in writing an essay?
The steps in writing an essay typically include: - Choosing a topic
- Researching the topic
- Developing an outline
- Writing the essay
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Revising and editing the essay
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What are some tips for writing an effective essay?
Some tips for writing an effective essay include: - Choose a topic that you are interested in and that you know something about.
- Do your research and gather evidence to support your points.
- Organize your thoughts and ideas in a logical way.
- Write in a clear and concise style.
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Proofread your essay carefully before submitting it.
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What are some common mistakes to avoid when writing an essay?
Some common mistakes to avoid when writing an essay include: - Not choosing a specific topic
- Not doing enough research
- Not organizing your thoughts
- Writing in a disorganized or rambling style
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Not proofreading your essay carefully
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What are some Resources that can help me write an essay?
There are many resources available to help you write an essay, including: - Your teacher or professor
- Online resources, such as essay writing guides and tutorials
- Books on essay writing
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Writing centers or tutoring Services
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How long should an essay be?
The length of an essay will vary depending on the type of essay, the level of Education, and the instructor’s requirements. However, most essays are between 3 and 5 pages long. -
What is the format for an essay?
The format for an essay will vary depending on the type of essay, the level of education, and the instructor’s requirements. However, most essays include an introduction, body paragraphs, and a conclusion. -
What is the introduction of an essay?
The introduction of an essay introduces the topic and thesis statement of the essay. It should also provide some background information on the topic and state the author’s point of view. -
What are the body paragraphs of an essay?
The body paragraphs of an essay support the thesis statement and provide evidence to back up the author’s point of view. Each body paragraph should focus on one main point, and should include evidence from the author’s research. -
What is the conclusion of an essay?
The conclusion of an essay summarizes the main points of the essay and restates the thesis statement. It should also leave the reader with a final thought or impression. -
What are some common essay topics?
Some common essay topics include: - Current events
- Social issues
- Personal experiences
- Historical events
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Literary works
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What are some essay writing techniques?
Some essay writing techniques include: - Using evidence to support your points
- Using examples to illustrate your points
- Using vivid language to describe your points
- Using a logical structure to organize your points
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Using a strong thesis statement to introduce your points
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What are some essay editing techniques?
Some essay editing techniques include: - Checking for grammar and spelling errors
- Checking for punctuation errors
- Checking for word choice errors
- Checking for sentence structure errors
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Checking for overall clarity and conciseness
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What are some essay proofreading techniques?
Some essay proofreading techniques include: - Reading your essay aloud
- Having someone else read your essay
- Using a grammar checker
- Using a spell checker
- Using a style checker
- Using a plagiarism checker
Here are some multiple choice questions about writing an effective essay:
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Which of the following is not a part of the essay writing process?
(A) Choosing a topic
(B) Researching the topic
(C) Writing an outline
(D) Writing the essay
(E) Editing and proofreading the essay -
The thesis statement is the main idea of the essay. It should be:
(A) Clear and concise
(B) Supported by evidence from the research
(C) Located at the beginning of the essay
(D) All of the above -
The body paragraphs of an essay should:
(A) Support the thesis statement
(B) Use evidence from the research
(C) Be well-organized
(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 something to think about
(D) All of the above -
Which of the following is not a type of essay?
(A) Argumentative essay
(B) Expository essay
(C) Narrative essay
(D) Descriptive essay
(E) All of the above are types of essays -
An argumentative essay is one that:
(A) Takes a position on a controversial issue
(B) Presents evidence to support that position
(C) Attempts to persuade the reader to agree with that position
(D) All of the above -
An expository essay is one that:
(A) Explains a concept or idea
(B) Presents information in a clear and concise way
(C) Uses evidence to support the explanation
(D) All of the above -
A narrative essay is one that:
(A) Tells a story
(B) Uses vivid language to create a picture in the reader’s mind
(C) Usually has a beginning, middle, and end
(D) All of the above -
A descriptive essay is one that:
(A) Describes a person, place, thing, or event
(B) Uses vivid language to create a picture in the reader’s mind
(C) Usually has a beginning, middle, and end
(D) All of the above -
Which of the following is not a common mistake made by essay writers?
(A) Not choosing a narrow enough topic
(B) Not doing enough research
(C) Not organizing the essay well
(D) Not proofreading the essay carefully
I hope these questions help you prepare for your next essay assignment!