what is essay give an example

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Effective and Persuasive Ways to Give an Example in an Essay

Last Updated: December 21, 2023 Fact Checked

This article was co-authored by Jake Adams . Jake Adams is an academic tutor and the owner of Simplifi EDU, a Santa Monica, California based online tutoring business offering learning resources and online tutors for academic subjects K-College, SAT & ACT prep, and college admissions applications. With over 14 years of professional tutoring experience, Jake is dedicated to providing his clients the very best online tutoring experience and access to a network of excellent undergraduate and graduate-level tutors from top colleges all over the nation. Jake holds a BS in International Business and Marketing from Pepperdine University. This article has been fact-checked, ensuring the accuracy of any cited facts and confirming the authority of its sources. This article has been viewed 47,778 times.

Examples help you prove your point in an authoritative, informed way. There are many ways to include examples in an essay, such as using quotes, statistics, or other data. The key is to use multiple examples from the text that are directly related to your argument. We'll show you how to weave them into your essay seamlessly.

• Don’t write something like, “It seems like colors and lights in Gatsby mean important things.”
• Instead, try saying, “In Chapter 4 of The Great Gatsby , we again read about the green light on the end of Gatsby’s dock. This green light is a symbol of his hopes and dreams.”

• If you want to use wildfires in California as an example of damage from climate change, you could write something like, "The devastating fire season in 2020 indicates that the damage from climate change is increasing. One example that illustrates this is the fact that fires were more frequent than in past years."

• You could discuss 3 different times that the green light was mentioned in Gatsby and analyze each one.

• For instance
• In other words
• In particular

• Make sure to introduce or conclude your quote. For instance, write, "As Baker explains, 'Wildfires have increased significantly during the past year." Or, "'Wildfires have increased significantly during the past year,' according to Baker."
• Whether you use parenthetical documentation or endnotes or footnotes depends on which citation style you use. Ask your instructor for tips if you're not sure how to cite materials.

Types of Examples

• For example, if you are trying to describe the Valley of Ashes in Gatsby , you could use a quote from the author’s description to help illustrate your point.
• You might write, "In Chapter 2, Fitzgerald paints the picture he wants the reader to see by saying, 'This is a Valley of Ashes—a fantastic farm where ashes grow like wheat into ridges and hills and grotesque gardens...'"
• Just make sure to cite any direct quotes or facts.

• Maybe you are reading a journal article about symbolism in The Great Gatsby and want to discuss an example from that article. You could write something like, “As Baker notes in her analysis, the green light is used most effectively in Chapter 4. She points out that it is here that readers truly begin to understand the significance of this symbol in the novel.”

• For example, you could write something like, “It’s clear that voter registration in Nebraska has increased since 2016. In that year, 200,000 new voters registered, compared to 275,000 new voters in 2020. This is an example of how more people are engaging in voting.”
• Make sure to cite any data that you use.

• Make sure to direct your reader to the figure and explain what you want them to see. Write something like, "Note the graph in Figure 4. It shows that the increase in voter turnout was significant in elections this year."
• Don't forget to cite the source of your figures.

Expert Q&A

• Make sure to carefully proofread your paper. Check for grammatical errors, make sure your points are clear, and look to see if you’ve included all of the necessary citations. Thanks Helpful 0 Not Helpful 0
• Ask a friend to look over your essay to see if your examples support your argument well. Thanks Helpful 0 Not Helpful 0

You Might Also Like

• ↑ Jake Adams. Academic Tutor & Test Prep Specialist. Expert Interview. 20 May 2020.
• ↑ https://writingcenter.unc.edu/tips-and-tools/evidence/
• ↑ https://wts.indiana.edu/writing-guides/paragraphs-and-topic-sentences.html
• ↑ https://pitt.libguides.com/citationhelp
• ↑ https://writingcenter.unc.edu/tips-and-tools/figures-and-charts/

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Writing an effective and impactful essay is crucial to your academic or professional success. Whether it’s getting into the college of your dreams or scoring high on a major assignment, writing a well-structured essay will help you achieve it all. But before you learn how to write an essay , you need to know its basic components.

In this article, we will understand what an essay is, how long it should be, and its different parts and types. We will also take a detailed look at relevant examples to better understand the essay structure.

Get an A+ with our essay editing and proofreading services! Learn more

What is an essay?

An essay is a concise piece of nonfiction writing that aims to either inform the reader about a topic or argue a particular perspective. It can either be formal or informal in nature. Most academic essays are highly formal, whereas informal essays are commonly found in journal entries, social media, or even blog posts.

As we can see from this essay definition, the beauty of essays lies in their versatility. From the exploration of complex scientific concepts to the history and evolution of everyday objects, they can cover a vast range of topics.

How long is an essay?

The length of an essay can vary from a few hundred to several thousand words but typically falls between 500–5,000 words. However, there are exceptions to this norm, such as Joan Didion and David Sedaris who have written entire books of essays.

Let’s take a look at the different types of essays and their lengths with the help of the following table:

How many paragraphs are in an essay?

Typically, an essay has five paragraphs: an introduction, a conclusion, and three body paragraphs. However, there is no set rule about the number of paragraphs in an essay.

The number of paragraphs can vary depending on the type and scope of your essay. An expository or argumentative essay may require more body paragraphs to include all the necessary information, whereas a narrative essay may need fewer.

Structure of an essay

To enhance the coherence and readability of your essay, it’s important to follow certain rules regarding the structure. Take a look:

1. Arrange your information from the most simple to the most complex bits. You can start the body paragraph off with a general statement and then move on to specifics.

2. Provide the necessary background information at the beginning of your essay to give the reader the context behind your thesis statement.

3. Select topic statements that provide value, more information, or evidence for your thesis statement.

There are also various essay structures , such as the compare and contrast structure, chronological structure, problem method solution structure, and signposting structure that you can follow to create an organized and impactful essay.

Parts of an essay

An impactful, well-structured essay comes down to three important parts: the introduction, body, and conclusion.

1. The introduction sets the stage for your essay and is typically a paragraph long. It should grab the reader’s attention and give them a clear idea of what your essay will be about.

2. The body is where you dive deeper into your topic and present your arguments and evidence. It usually consists of two paragraphs, but this can vary depending on the type of essay you’re writing.

3. The conclusion brings your essay to a close and is typically one paragraph long. It should summarize the main points of the essay and leave the reader with something to think about.

The length of your paragraphs can vary depending on the type of essay you’re writing. So, make sure you take the time to plan out your essay structure so each section flows smoothly into the next.

Introduction

When it comes to writing an essay, the introduction is a critical component that sets the tone for the entire piece. A well-crafted introduction not only grabs the reader’s attention but also provides them with a clear understanding of what the essay is all about. An essay editor can help you achieve this, but it’s best to know the brief yourself!

Let’s take a look at how to write an attractive and informative introductory paragraph.

1. Construct an attractive hook

To grab the reader’s attention, an opening statement or hook is crucial. This can be achieved by incorporating a surprising statistic, a shocking fact, or an interesting anecdote into the beginning of your piece.

For example, if you’re writing an essay about water conservation you can begin your essay with, “Clean drinking water, a fundamental human need, remains out of reach for more than one billion people worldwide. It deprives them of a basic human right and jeopardizes their health and wellbeing.”

2. Provide sufficient context or background information

An effective introduction should begin with a brief description or background of your topic. This will help provide context and set the stage for your discussion.

For example, if you’re writing an essay about climate change, you start by describing the current state of the planet and the impact that human activity is having on it.

3. Construct a well-rounded and comprehensive thesis statement

A good introduction should also include the main message or thesis statement of your essay. This is the central argument that you’ll be making throughout the piece. It should be clear, concise, and ideally placed toward the end of the introduction.

By including these elements in your introduction, you’ll be setting yourself up for success in the rest of your essay.

Let’s take a look at an example.

Essay introduction example

• Background information
• Thesis statement

The Wright Brothers’ invention of the airplane in 1903 revolutionized the way humans travel and explore the world. Prior to this invention, transportation relied on trains, boats, and cars, which limited the distance and speed of travel. However, the airplane made air travel a reality, allowing people to reach far-off destinations in mere hours. This breakthrough paved the way for modern-day air travel, transforming the world into a smaller, more connected place. In this essay, we will explore the impact of the Wright Brothers’ invention on modern-day travel, including the growth of the aviation industry, increased accessibility of air travel to the general public, and the economic and cultural benefits of air travel.

Body paragraphs

You can persuade your readers and make your thesis statement compelling by providing evidence, examples, and logical reasoning. To write a fool-proof and authoritative essay, you need to provide multiple well-structured, substantial arguments.

Let’s take a look at how this can be done:

1. Write a topic sentence for each paragraph

The beginning of each of your body paragraphs should contain the main arguments that you’d like to address. They should provide ground for your thesis statement and make it well-rounded. You can arrange these arguments in several formats depending on the type of essay you’re writing.

2. Provide the supporting information

The next point of your body paragraph should provide supporting information to back up your main argument. Depending on the type of essay, you can elaborate on your main argument with the help of relevant statistics, key information, examples, or even personal anecdotes.

3. Analyze the supporting information

After providing relevant details and supporting information, it is important to analyze it and link it back to your main argument.

4. Create a smooth transition to the next paragraph

End one body paragraph with a smooth transition to the next. There are many ways in which this can be done, but the most common way is to give a gist of your main argument along with the supporting information with transitory words such as “however” “in addition to” “therefore”.

Here’s an example of a body paragraph.

Essay body paragraph example

• Topic sentence
• Supporting information
• Analysis of the information
• Smooth transition to the next paragraph

The Wright Brothers’ invention of the airplane revolutionized air travel. They achieved the first-ever successful powered flight with the Wright Flyer in 1903, after years of conducting experiments and studying flight principles. Despite their first flight lasting only 12 seconds, it was a significant milestone that paved the way for modern aviation. The Wright Brothers’ success can be attributed to their systematic approach to problem-solving, which included numerous experiments with gliders, the development of a wind tunnel to test their designs, and meticulous analysis and recording of their results. Their dedication and ingenuity forever changed the way we travel, making modern aviation possible.

A powerful concluding statement separates a good essay from a brilliant one. To create a powerful conclusion, you need to start with a strong foundation.

Let’s take a look at how to construct an impactful concluding statement.

1. Restructure your thesis statement

To conclude your essay effectively, don’t just restate your thesis statement. Instead, use what you’ve learned throughout your essay and modify your thesis statement accordingly. This will help you create a conclusion that ties together all of the arguments you’ve presented.

2. Summarize the main points of your essay

The next point of your conclusion consists of a summary of the main arguments of your essay. It is crucial to effectively summarize the gist of your essay into one, well-structured paragraph.

3. Create a lasting impression with your concluding statement

Conclude your essay by including a key takeaway, or a powerful statement that creates a lasting impression on the reader. This can include the broader implications or consequences of your essay topic.

Here’s an example of a concluding paragraph.

Essay conclusion example

• Restated thesis statement
• Summary of the main points
• Broader implications of the thesis statement

The Wright Brothers’ invention of the airplane forever changed history by paving the way for modern aviation and countless aerospace advancements. Their persistence, innovation, and dedication to problem-solving led to the first successful powered flight in 1903, sparking a revolution in transportation that transformed the world. Today, air travel remains an integral part of our globalized society, highlighting the undeniable impact of the Wright Brothers’ contribution to human civilization.

Types of essays

Most essays are derived from the combination or variation of these four main types of essays . let’s take a closer look at these types.

1. Narrative essay

A narrative essay is a type of writing that involves telling a story, often based on personal experiences. It is a form of creative nonfiction that allows you to use storytelling techniques to convey a message or a theme.

2. Descriptive essay

A descriptive essay aims to provide an immersive experience for the reader by using sensory descriptors. Unlike a narrative essay, which tells a story, a descriptive essay has a narrower scope and focuses on one particular aspect of a story.

3. Argumentative essays

An argumentative essay is a type of essay that aims to persuade the reader to adopt a particular stance based on factual evidence and is one of the most common forms of college essays.

4. Expository essays

An expository essay is a common format used in school and college exams to assess your understanding of a specific topic. The purpose of an expository essay is to present and explore a topic thoroughly without taking any particular stance or expressing personal opinions.

While this article demonstrates what is an essay and describes its types, you may also have other doubts. As experts who provide essay editing and proofreading services , we’re here to help. 

Our team has created a list of resources to clarify any doubts about writing essays. Keep reading to write engaging and well-organized essays!

• How to Write an Essay in 8 Simple Steps
• How to Write an Essay Header
• How to Write an Essay Outline

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the difference between an argumentative and an expository essay, what is the difference between a narrative and a descriptive essay, what is an essay format, what is the meaning of essay, what is the purpose of writing an essay.

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• essay - Student Encyclopedia (Ages 11 and up)

essay , an analytic , interpretative, or critical literary composition usually much shorter and less systematic and formal than a dissertation or thesis and usually dealing with its subject from a limited and often personal point of view.

Some early treatises—such as those of Cicero on the pleasantness of old age or on the art of “divination,” Seneca on anger or clemency , and Plutarch on the passing of oracles—presage to a certain degree the form and tone of the essay, but not until the late 16th century was the flexible and deliberately nonchalant and versatile form of the essay perfected by the French writer Michel de Montaigne . Choosing the name essai to emphasize that his compositions were attempts or endeavours, a groping toward the expression of his personal thoughts and experiences, Montaigne used the essay as a means of self-discovery. His Essais , published in their final form in 1588, are still considered among the finest of their kind. Later writers who most nearly recall the charm of Montaigne include, in England, Robert Burton , though his whimsicality is more erudite , Sir Thomas Browne , and Laurence Sterne , and in France, with more self-consciousness and pose, André Gide and Jean Cocteau .

At the beginning of the 17th century, social manners, the cultivation of politeness, and the training of an accomplished gentleman became the theme of many essayists. This theme was first exploited by the Italian Baldassare Castiglione in his Il libro del cortegiano (1528; The Book of the Courtier ). The influence of the essay and of genres allied to it, such as maxims, portraits, and sketches, proved second to none in molding the behavior of the cultured classes, first in Italy, then in France, and, through French influence, in most of Europe in the 17th century. Among those who pursued this theme was the 17th-century Spanish Jesuit Baltasar Gracián in his essays on the art of worldly wisdom.

Keener political awareness in the 18th century, the age of Enlightenment , made the essay an all-important vehicle for the criticism of society and religion. Because of its flexibility, its brevity , and its potential both for ambiguity and for allusions to current events and conditions, it was an ideal tool for philosophical reformers. The Federalist Papers in America and the tracts of the French Revolutionaries are among the countless examples of attempts during this period to improve the human condition through the essay.

The genre also became the favoured tool of traditionalists of the 18th and 19th centuries, such as Edmund Burke and Samuel Taylor Coleridge , who looked to the short, provocative essay as the most potent means of educating the masses. Essays such as Paul Elmer More’s long series of Shelburne Essays (published between 1904 and 1935), T.S. Eliot ’s After Strange Gods (1934) and Notes Towards the Definition of Culture (1948), and others that attempted to reinterpret and redefine culture , established the genre as the most fitting to express the genteel tradition at odds with the democracy of the new world.

Whereas in several countries the essay became the chosen vehicle of literary and social criticism, in other countries the genre became semipolitical, earnestly nationalistic, and often polemical, playful, or bitter. Essayists such as Robert Louis Stevenson and Willa Cather wrote with grace on several lighter subjects, and many writers—including Virginia Woolf , Edmund Wilson , and Charles du Bos —mastered the essay as a form of literary criticism .

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How to Put Examples in Your Essay

Learn the best way to add examples to your essay to support your ideas. You need to use a range of linking words in your essay and also use them flexibly in different locations in the sentence. See below for a list of useful linking words with sample sentences:

Linking Words for Giving Examples

• for example
• for instance
• to illustrate
• as an illustration
• to give a clear example
• take, for example,

Video Tutorial: How to Add Examples in an Essay

Sample Sentences with Supporting Examples

Please note that the linking words do not need to be at the start of the sentence. You can use them more flexibly by changing their location.

Global warming should be taken more serious as it can result in a number of disastrous consequences. To give a clear example , the melting polar ice caps have not only caused a loss of habitat for polar bears but are also threatening seas levels worldwide.

More and more women are choosing to start a family later in life. 20% of women giving birth to their first child, for instance , are over the age of 30 in the UK.

Crimes should not have the same punishment. Minor crimes, such as pick pocketing and traffic offences, should not have the same penalty as major crimes, namely murder and manslaughter.

Children often learn behaviour from the adults around them subconsciously. To illustrate , around 50% of children who are brought up by aggressive parents often use aggression to solve their own problems later in life.

Parents should be responsible for teaching their children right and wrong. If, for example , they see their child using bad language, they should spend time explaining to their child the serious consequences that can result from this type of behaviour.

More and more people are leading sedentary life styles due to work conditions. Take for example office workers in the UK who spend at least 8 hours a day, 5 days a week  sitting in front of their computers.

All Linking Words for Essay Writing

You can find a list of all linking words that can be used in essay writing: Linking Words for Writing .

IELTS Essay Questions

• Over 100 IELTS Essay Questions

Main IELTS Pages Develop your IELTS skills with tips, model answers, lessons, free videos and more. IELTS Listening IELTS Reading IELTS Writing Task 1 IELTS Writing Task 2 IELTS Speaking Vocabulary for IELTS IELTS Test Information (FAQ) Home Page: IELTS Liz

hi liz , my IELTS slot is within 8 days and I loosing my confidence in writing sections and plz guide me to get respect band score.

See my free tips and model essays for writing task 2 on this page: https://ieltsliz.com/ielts-writing-task-2/ . You can find advanced lessons which take you step by step through each paragraph to create a high score essay in my online store: https://elizabethferguson.podia.com/ . You can find writing task 1 tips and models on this page: https://ieltsliz.com/ielts-writing-task-1-lessons-and-tips/ . I’ve got a free video coming in either a couple of days or early next week about writing the introduction for writing task 1 – I’ll post it on this website and on my Youtube channel. Try to tackle things calmly and strategically. Review each type of essay for task 2 and each type of report for task 1. Make lists of what you feel sure of and not sure of. Stay focused. You can learn a lot in 8 days.

Hi Liz, my test is in 3 days i am also loosing confidence! Do you have any last minute advices for me?

Review the points for each part of the test: https://ieltsliz.com/ielts-exam-tips-on-the-day/ . Then take time to think what things you are still concerned about and focus on them. Also please make sure not to exhaust yourself. It’s a long test and you’ll need the ability to concentrate. Good luck!

Hi Liz, thank you for all the advices, I truly appreciate.

I have a minor question however, is it proper to use ‘e.g.’ (exempli gratia) when giving examples in IELTS writing? or it’s not recommended?

It’s definitely best to stick to usual English language linking words: for example, for instance, namely etc. You should avoid using “etc” or “eg” because you are being marked on the use of linking words and general vocabulary.

I see. Thanks!

I can say that you are on of my the best theachers I have ever met.I do not what to say ; ı wish you the best for all your life.

Thanks. That’s a kind comment

Thank you so much Liz for all the resources on your site. God bless you immensely.

You’re welcome 🙂

Dear Liz, In my example can I lie? For example, “the Times News once reported more than 50% of youths to prefer to use laptops”. This information was not actually written in the news.

You do not need to state the origin of examples in any IELTS essay. It does not help your score to do so. In fact, mentioning data in task 2 will not help your score either. It’s better to use language which will help your score: On average it can be said that around half of all youths prefer to access the internet using a laptop rather than any other kind of device. On average it can be said that an overwhelming majority of all youths use laptops to go online rather than any other device.

Your website is the best for learning IELTS techniques. It’s even better than the British Council courses

Thanks. I’m glad you find it useful 🙂

Thank you so much Liz for all this resources. God bless you immensely.

Hi Liz, is it okay if we make up the statistics in essay ( for we want to provide examples, but we know nothing about the topic).

As you don’t get extra points for stats anyway, there’s no point. It would be much better to boost your vocab score by saying “the overwhelming majority” or “only a mere fraction of” etc etc.

Hi Liz, I hope you are doing fine!

Is it acceptable to use a mix of American English and UK English while writing? I’m asking because there are few words that are spelled differently in both countries.

You should stick to one way of spelling for the writing test.

Alright! Thanks for the quick reply!

Hi Liz! Is it okay if the one main paragraph is bigger than other or should they be balanced? Does this affect my score? Thank you.

Yes, it affects your score. Body paragraphs should be equally developed.

thank you liz.

Thank you you Liz all I have never read a website as helpful as yours . Wishing you more successful feats in all your life endeavors Am Sameer Hassan Saleh

hi liz… I have seen your all paid essay vedios. These all are excellent. Thanks alot for all these lessons. I just want to know can we use personal examples in task 2. For instance, my younger brother eat noodels frequently as he finds it much delicious than conventional healthy food and vegitables. Pleass guide in this regard? Thanks alot..

It is best to continue writing about people in general for examples: “Many younger people prefer eating noodles because …”

Hello Liz Thank you very much for these very useful interesting lessons. I just want to now if the statistics that might be mentioned in the essay have to be generally “correct”; or the examiner may penalize you for giving statistics that are clearly not true and just made up in the exam room?

Putting statistics in your essay does not boost your score. The examiner is marking your English and your ideas, not facts or numbers in task 2.

Hi liz , thank you for you precious blog, it really helped me. I have a question! Is it ok to give false statistics?? I mean to fake one to support my idea????

Why would you want to give false statistics? Do you think examples should contain statistics? Do you think you get a better score because you use statistics? Statistics play no part in your score for writing task 2.

In case we don’t remember exact figures can we guess ie say around 5-6%, it’s not possible that examiner knows all exact statics.

You will not get a higher score because you put statistics in your task 2 essay. You do not need to give any numbers at all.

Hi, Liz, I have some doubt amout ‘your own experience’ 1. what actually does it mean? 2. can I state my own experience or commonly observation experience? 3. My own experience mean any EXAMPLE?

PEASE LET ME KNOW. THNAKS

It means your experience of the world in general. It does not need to be your own personal experience, but rather your experience of the world. As essays are formal, we don’t usually refer to ourselves or our family and friends.

Hi, Thank you for your great lessons. I have a question, in this video you wrote: “an increasing number of people are eating unhealthy food…” you used “increasing number of people” which means you used Gerund. that’s why you put “an” in front of it, however you used “are eating”, shouldn’t have you said “is eating”? Gerund consider as singular, right?

An increasing number = the word “increasing” is used as a adjective, not as a gerund. The noun = number of people Adjective = increasing. Don’t get your grammar confused.

Hello Liz! 🙂 I’m writing an academic research paper involving diabetes. I’m not sure, however, where to place the statistics surrounding the number of people with diabetes in my country in my introduction. Do I put it before my description of diabetes, or after it?

All my advice is for IELTS which is an English language test. It is not for academic writing at uni or college which is not testing language. IELTS has specific requirements which are not the same as any academic research. You will have to find sample research papers and use their structure.

Hi Liz, In General IELTS Task 2 essays, often it is asked that “Give examples from your own knowledge or experience” So my question is can I use “I”, “my”, “me” while quoting an example? Secondly i was reading some where that IELTS essays are persuasive essays so we have to use first person voice and should use “I”, “my”, “me” at least once in each paragraph. Please comment on this. Thanks

Essays are formal, so examples of your experience or knowledge should relate to “the majority of people …”. It is not actually about you or your friends but your experience of the world. GT writing is more marked as strictly as academic essays but even so I recommend you to use formal examples.

Can I use fake examples whic are grammatically correct?

Why – it won’t help your score.

Hi Liz, In your examples above, you have written “To illustrate, around 50% of children who are bought up by aggressive parents often use aggression to solve their own problems later in life” If we were to write such an example, does it have to be factual or just believable?

It is just as good to write “the majority of children..” or “about half of all children …”.

Good day to you madam, I would like to ask how many sentences are recommended to give an example in an essay. I would also like to know if it is okay to not mention the actual source of a statistic in an essay that writes about contemporary issues. Thank you.

1) You don’t need to use examples. So, if you use them, it’s your choice how many. 2) you should NEVER state the source of numbers in an IELTS essay. In fact, most examples are better given without numbers. This is an English language test, not a essay presenting data.

Hi Dear Liz My name’s Ghazale You cannot imagine how incredibly you have changed my world of learning English these few past weeks And i must confess your videos helped me too good What a wonderful teacher you are I keep watching your videos but unfortunately i couldn’t log into your website to be a member Thanks a lot

I have a burning question in mind about examples. Would it be alright to use ither languages in an essay. For example,in an essay about using English as the only language, I pointed out that language often go side by side with culture. My sentences: Japanese add “guzaimasu” after a phrase or “san” after a name to express politeness. In the Philippines, we say “bayanihan” to describe the value we place on our neighbors and community. There are no direct English translations for these words.

I do hope you see this question. I have been learning quite a lot from you. This is, in fact, a question I got from your site. Thank you very much!

Your aim in your essay is to provide clear, relevant main points which are well developed, explained and linked. Your other aim is to provide accurate grammar and vocabulary in English. Those examples might be appropriate to use one example but certainly not more than that. Once you make your point, move on – don’t become repetitive. Your Japanese example is confusing for people who don’t understand Japanese but your example from the Philippines is clearer. Remember this is not about filling your essay will all your ideas – it is about being selective and deciding what to include and what to exclude.

Thank you very much! Will try my very best!

Dear Liz, Is it ok to create statistical data as example for academic writing task 2?

Why? It won’t help your band score at all. It’s better to explain your ideas using English language and focus on accuracy of language.

In IELTS it is said : “Ideas should be supported by evidence, and examples may be drawn from the test takers’ own experience.” In many mock essays answers, there are no examples. Can an essay reach band score 9 without any examples? Thank you very much

The instructions mean that you must expand and explain your ideas – it does not means you must give examples. There are many ways to illustrate and explain ideas.

Is it okay to make up facts to use as examples?

You should not be thinking about memorising facts for your essay. It will not help your score at all. IELTS don’t expect you to do that. When are you asked to support your ideas, it means to explain them or give examples of situations – not figures, statistics or facts.

can i use personal pronoun in essay ?

See this page: https://ieltsliz.com/ielts-writing-task-2-expressing-your-opinion/

Hi Liz, All your videos are very useful, all those tips and tricks really boosted my confidence, thanks a lot for that:)

I have a doubt regarding the writing task2, when I was doing a sample writing task, I came across this “include any relevant examples from your knowledge or experience”. So, does this mean we can give real life examples while writing our essay?

Thank you, Hari, India.

Your writing task 2 essay deals with world issues. You can give examples but I advise you to use examples relating to the world in general: “For example, it is commonly known that ….” or “For example, the majority of people ….”. These are examples of your view of the world. If, however, you write “For example, my friend Dave …” your essay loses style and language content.

Thanks a lot, Liz:) that was a great example. I am taking my exam on 22 of this month, with all your videos and tips hoping to get a great score.

Can we you hypothetical statistics? For example, if I want to make my point strong, can i use any university name or any research journal?? I mean can i state in the essay that, “In a recent article published by ABC university, 70% of the people have found addicted to smartphones” Whereas in fact, there is no such article ever published stating this fact of 70%.

Yes, you can lie about stats but why? It won’t help your score at all. This phrase ““In a recent article published by ..” won’t boost your score. It’s a learn expression which is generic (it can be applied to any topic) and this means the examiner won’t count it towards examples of your natural language.

Thanks Liz for your reply. I have gone through a number of your advises and found them very useful.

But I saw in some of the articles that if you show some reference and support with research data, you will be able to reinforce your argument. Had I rephrased it but still lied about the fact, would it add value then to my task 2?

Regards Ahmed

The examiner does not give you a higher band score because you are presenting statistics. Statistics are irrelevant to your mark. The supporting points being assessed are relating to language, not figures. You can add all the stats you want, it won’t increase your score at all.

That’s really helpful. It relief some of the pressure of knowing statistical data related to the topic.

Thanks once again,

Wow, were you really trying to remember stats for your essay? You are not marked on your knowledge at all. Just think of some relevant main ideas and then explain them – nothing more is needed. It is essentially an English language test. Take a look at my band 9 model essays: https://ieltsliz.com/ielts-writing-task-2/

I have a question regarding grammar. I am not in what case can we put Verb+ing after the word “to”

I always thought that we have to put the verb whit its original form, but I have noticed two examples and still didn’t understand the rule.

Here are the two examples I saw in your blog:

– resort to buying ( why not resort to buy?) – I am looking forward to hearing from you ( why not looking forward to hear from you soon?)

appreciate your always help.

You can use “to” as a preposition. If you haven’t seen this before, don’t use it. More mistakes will lower your score. Use the grammar you know well.

Hi .. can I add “example” form my own information or not ?

sorry i mean from

You can write anything you want. However, writing about the world in general usually produces a better level of English.

As long as it is in the allotted time, are we allowed to write our essays out in rough first, then transfer them onto the exam papers?

You will not have time. You need to spend at least 5 mins planning your essay which includes main ideas as well as supporting points. This means you can write your essay directly. Try timing yourself and you will see how difficult it is to do both task 1 and task 2 in one hour.

I can not buy your lesson which must be paid by paybal, because in Turkey there is not paybal. How I can bu these lessons? Please inform me.

Hi Liz! Thanks for the amazing tips! And I would like to ask whether I can make up facts as an example in my writing test? Thanks!

Sure, if you want. But it’s better to explain your ideas rather than just make up stats.

Hello Liz! I have to ask that is it possible to get 7 bands in writing? As I have never heard above 7 bands of any student. Why so?

You will find many students hit band 7 and above: https://ieltsliz.com/post-your-ielts-test-results/

Liz, Thanks a lot for your fantastic information. Your work is exceptional and highly recommendable for not only IELTS test takers but also first-year university students who use English as a second language.

I had a question about the use of “resort”. Is it “resort to doing” or “resort to do”?

In the last scene, I was two sentences:

1. This is exemplified by the 70% of working people in the UK, who resort to BUYING ready made meals for convenience. 2. This can be seen by the growing number of working people in the UK who resort to BUY ready made meals for convenience instead of cooking at home.

Is it a typo in the second sentence?

Many thanks for your tutoring videos. They are extremely helpful!

https://ieltsliz.com/liz-notice-2015-2016/

I wonder if it is possible to include false statistics in my writings?

It isn’t necessary. You don’t need to put in statistics at all. It’s best to explain your opinion.

Hi, Juliana. I post the explanation of the resort. “resort to sth to make use of sth, especially something bad, as a means of achieving sth, often because there is no other solution.”

E.g. They felt obliged to resort to violence We may have to resort to using untrained staff.

So, we should put doing after the resort to.

And you are right. there is a typo mistake in the second sentence. I think liz post that in the video.

Dear madam,

I need 6 bands in each tasks for IELTS General module.Still I’m worried about Speaking and Listening exam because I don’t get grip on this tasks compared to other tasks.Please suggest me a technique for practice to acquire a good score.I have next exam on 18th February.

Hi Liz, I just started to follow your blogs recently. As I read the topics above, I wonder if we could present or invent statistics in our own just to support our answers in essay 🙂 ? Thanks!

Hi liz ,hope u r doing fine..i would be very grateful if u cud give some advice about the ielts..recently i sat for the it,n i got an overall 6.5band, with 7 listening , 6.5 writing, 6.5 reading and 5.5 speaking.though its not enuf for my professional career,im wondering if i shud give it again and if yes ,will i be able to attain the requirement that is a total of 7.5 with a minimum of 7 in each section….honestly speaking i had only ten days for the exam and during the process i didnt practice at all,just read some sample essay on net n some passage reading..and i came to conclusion that the only way to succeed is practise because your only opponent on the day of exam is time.for instance for my case,i finish my essay just in time,cud not do proofreading and this apply for the reading as well…n it was my first experiece with ielts…is there a chance that i can reach the objective band nxt time?my essay was is should the private life of celebrity be respected by the media,to what extent u agree or disagree..thnk u,,waiting impatiently for ur reply…

You will need to improve your English and also get training for IELTS to get band 7 in each criterion. Liz

Task 2: Some people say that interview is a good way of selecting competent candidates. What are the other ways for selecting a good candidate What do you think is the best way to select a good candidate. How write intro this question and make paragraph

Hi Liz. Thank for this tip. it’s really helpful. But i have a question. How can i explain my idea in writing task 2? I always have a problem with this

The supporting points are only explanations of your ideas. Just more detail. It could be examples, consequences, exceptions, explanation, causes – anything you feel will explain what you mean. If you aim for three body paragraph, you will only need about two supporting sentences which is easier. Liz

what i am looking for is some questions that i need to question myself whenever i have an idea needed to explained. I found your video bout ideas. I have a lot of them now. but dont know how to expand it.

Ask yourself “why”. If you state “Firstly one of the best ways to tackle traffic congestion is to build wider roads.” Then you ask “why is this a good method? What does it do?”. You then add: “By doing this, traffic will be able to flow more easily and congestion will be reduced”. Then you choose your next sentence, either an example or an opposite: “If the roads are not widened, traffic will slowly grind to a halt as traffic is no longer able to flow along the streets because they are too narrow.”.

I strongly advice you to read all model essays online and make a note of what kind of information is given in the supporting points. Then you will have a range of ideas. Liz

This is a great way to illustrate how to expand ideas Liz. Very clear and concise.

Thank you very much.

Hello, Liz Could I write “As an example/illustration of something, …”?

If I’m not mistaken, it is “Cambridge IELTS 9” on the shelf on each video. Do you recommend this book? Thank you in advance! Julia

Yes, you can use those two ways to give examples. I have both Cambridge 9 and 10. They are the two most recent books published by IELTS. They contain 4 practice tests but not tips. They are good for practicing. No students should enter the test without doing a full practice test at least once. All the best Liz

Can we make up our own examples with fake dates and events.??

The examiner will not check factual information so you can use examples as you wish. But it is unnecessary to invest data – just describe it for a higher score. Liz

I will just use supporting examples, which will make sense by different Organization names.I have exam on 8 October, 2015.

I was wondering, it won t be considered ok to write 2 ideas in one paragraph? For instance 1 BP with 2 ideas explained or 2 causes etx. It would be more correct to have only one idea/solution/cause/advantage in each BP?

The organisation of ideas depends on the type of essay you have. You would need full training to understand more deeply: http://subscriptions.viddler.com/IELTSLizStore All the best Liz

Thanks Dear, I appreciate it.

that is the example, and I guess you are right.And where do you recommend I can write my opinion? computers are becoming an essential part of education. Discuss the advantages and the disadvantages and give your own opinion?

I’ve never seen those instructions before. However, to follow them, you must do exactly what they say: give the advantages, give the disadvantages and give your opinion. If your opinion agrees with one side, then include it in your body paragraph. If your opinion agrees with neither side, put it in a separate body paragraph. There’s no fixed rule. All the best Liz

Hi Liz, Regarding the advantage and disadvantage and giving your opinion question. where is the best place exactly to express my opinion?is it in the conclusion sentence or included in the introduction?

There is no question in IELTS that asks for the advantages, disadvantages and your opinion. Are you talking about the discussion essay? All the best Liz

Hi, For writing task 2, sometimes I don’t have relevant examples ? I start properly with a topic sentence and I explain it in detail, but I, sometimes, find difficulty of giving a clear example?

if there is any other way to state it ? thank you

You do not need to give examples unless you want to. Supporting points are any points which explain your idea further. All the best Liz

Thank you very much for the very useful article. I have some concern about the use of ‘i.e.’ and ‘e.g.’. Do you think they are formal enough to be used in IELTS writing?

Many thanks again,

Never use shortened forms in IELTS writing. All the best Liz

I would be so grateful if you could suggest me the perfect study plan in order to prepare for my second Ielts exam on 12 September. I need to improve each section with 0.5 or 1 score.

Thank you in advance, Genta

Sorry, I don’t provide study plans. Watch my video on my home page about preparing for IELTS and just cover the points mentioned. You know your weaknesses and you know the time you have available – you are the best one to make a study plan. Liz

Hi, Liz I want to use “Example” at the end of my essay. So, which one is correct 1. for example 2. in example 3. at example 4. on example

Examples are usually put in the body paragraphs to support your ideas, not at the end. See this page for correct linking words: https://ieltsliz.com/linking-words-for-writing/ . Then review all tips on the main writing task 2 page: https://ieltsliz.com/ielts-writing-task-2/

Dear Liz, I would be acknowledge by my heartfelt appreciation about your website and merits videos . I’m settling in Tehran and wand passing ielts strictly. In recent years , there has been hard rise in ielts examination . Let’s emphatically endorse to this fact that the band score 7 and upper goals are crucial for us to make the future by proper mentoring , extensive training and practicing . Hence , it’s important to be realistic about apprentices who need the band 6.5 in general training modules . With all this taken into account , I believe that I have some problems in reading to pass this examination . Another thing I should mention is how can I improve myself in listening module because I couldn’t accurately pass this . It has fluctuated on 5 to 6.5 in 3 mock examinations . This is often cited as a reason for practicing more but I can not fix my grade in 6.5 . It will make me feel happy if I solve this problem . Eventually, if you have leisure convenient, please, test us with some sample questions ( talking points ) by writing in both issues and make us as well . Let’s commonly apprentice about this website . I’m looking forward to knowing more from you . With warmest wishes, As ever, Hooman

I will be very direct with you. To get band score 7, you need to have a very strong level of English in which you have good use of English but with few errors. Your message above shows quite a lot of errors when you use vocabulary that is not appropriate. You clearly know a lot of vocabulary but not how to use it and what it really means. For example, “apprentice” is not a synonym for student. For this reason, you are not getting band 7 in your listening or reading etc. Of course, you will need to check your techniques and follow the right tips but at the end of the day, if your English is not band 7, it will be hard to get that score. Spend time developing your English. I don’t mean learning new words (you have a wide enough vocabulary) but learning more about the meaning of the words, collocations, paraphrasing correctly and how to use words appropriately. All the best Liz

Hlo Dear liz.. firstly i would like to you say thanku for your support. second of all, can you plz recommend me books of good authors for preparation of ielts? I am weak in speaking module due to lack of ideas.please help me. Thanks

You could try the Collins IELTS speaking book. That has good ideas and vocabulary for various topics. Liz

Hi Liz , u r ways of study fanatastic,I need ur guidance i live near border problem regarding internet, I can buy ur task 2 any book I need 6 GN plz help me

Unfortunately, I don’t have a book for IELTS at present. Possibly in the future. Liz

Dear Liz , I would like to buy your essay tips, please could you tell me as soon as possible ,I just booked my test for first of August . Beast regards Maria

At present, I have just opened my video course with in-depth lessons and tips for writing: http://subscriptions.viddler.com/IELTSLizStore I will add more lessons to my course in the coming months. All the best Liz

Hello liz. The linking words you presented to are very helpful. Hope to hear more from your post. Thank you.

I’m glad you find them useful. They are so important to use in your essay. Liz

Hi liz. .I want to seek help from you in doing my essay. I am really having a hard to put my ideas. I need a band score of 7 in all categories. Please help me.

Unfortunately, I don’t offer individual tuition to help you. You should go through topics and research ideas for your essays. You can find some ideas on my blog and others online. Then practice adapting the ideas to suit the essay question and the instructions. Liz

hi liz. .ok. .I will do as you said. .I will read your blog. .thank you for patiently replying my issues. Godbless. .

Im confused with the” to buy and to buying” from your examples

1. for example about 70% of people working in the UK resort to buying ready-made meals for convenience rather than doing home cooking

2. This can be seen by the growing number of working people who resort to buy ready-made meals for convenience instead of cooking at home

Could you please explain to me when should I use to buy and to buying ?

Thank you very much

Thanks for pointing it out. It’s a typo. I’ve put a comment in the video. All the best Liz

Hi Liz. Guys.

I just found this website yesterday when I was looking for some stuff for ielts self preparation. Yes, I would like to take an exam and also like to ask you how long you recommend a prepation before the exam date?

It really depends on a number of factors, one of which is your understanding of the test and requirements of the band scores. If your English is suitable for the band score you are aiming for, you will only need to focus on exam skills to make sure you reach your potential. The skills will help you understand how to approach questions and what the examiner is looking for in your writing and speaking. Once you feel comfortable with all that, you will have a clear idea of how long you want to practice before your test. Whatever you decide, make sure you are frequently getting the band score you want in practice tests. All the best Liz

Thank u for your reply. I need least band 6. What do u think about level B2 communicator. Is possible to get that band and of course with preparation bfr exam. Thanks in advance

See this chart: http://www.ielts.org/researchers/common_european_framework.aspx Liz

Thank you. Looks possibly

How should i start my preparation plz advice and accordlingly i will follow in Reading/Writing/Speaking/Listining

Regards, Mirza

You start in any way you want. I advise you to learn the content and question types of all skills and then start practicing. Then do practice tests to check your level. After that, start planning your development. Liz

Thanks for the useful lesson .

Hi Liz! I got overall 7.5 band score and the credit goes to you as well. Thankyou so much for being my virtual tutor. It’s my pleasure to study with you online. Preparation material and guidelines by you helped me a lot in achieving my target in first attempt. Goodluck to all the students who are preparing for IELTS ,”it’s not that much difficult” Thanks Liz for all your efforts, stay blessed always 🙂

Well done! It is an inspiration to all students 🙂

Too good again, I am going to give my GT on 1st Aug. Thanking you so much. I like those additional examples by using linking devices.

Hii ma’m! I am from Pakistan and I want to tell you that you are indeed a very great teacher. I’m gonna appear in coming IELTS on 1st August. I’m feeling really confident now after going through your very informative lectures here.

Thank you a lot for being so helpful! Need your prayers now 🙂

Regards, Madiha

Good luck !!

I got 5.5 band in first attempt R-4 L-5 W-5.5 S-6.5

Second attaempt R-4 W-4.5 L-4.5 S-5.5 Total band-4.5

Please advice me how i need to follow.I need 6 band in each module immigration.

Regards, Mirza Ehteshamulla Baig Kuwait

The key is probably your level of English. Your results are quite even so you will probably need to develop your English language to get a higher score. All the best Liz

Did you give third attempt? How much u got?

Dear Liz, When writing essays, we usually don’t have statistical data at hand. Is it OK to make up such information to give examples?

Sure, if you want. The examiner won’t know the difference. But you don’t need to give statistics. Examples can just be an example of a situation. Liz

Hello Liz! I also have a question about statistics… Do we have to mention where we got the information from?

You can give examples in any way you wish.

Dear Liz, Thank you so much for your very informative lesson here. It really helped me when I took the exam on 11th of July and I got a total band score of 7.5. You are indeed a blessing. God bless you more.

Regards, jen

Great news! Band 7.5 is a strong score. I hope you celebrated 🙂 Liz

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Academic Phrasebank

Giving examples.

• GENERAL LANGUAGE FUNCTIONS
• Being cautious
• Being critical
• Classifying and listing
• Compare and contrast
• Defining terms
• Describing trends
• Describing quantities
• Explaining causality
• Signalling transition
• Writing about the past

Writers may give specific examples as evidence to support their general claims or arguments. Examples can also be used to help the reader or listener understand unfamiliar or difficult concepts, and they tend to be easier to remember. For this reason, they are often used in teaching. Finally, students may be required to give examples in their work to demonstrate that they have understood a complex problem or concept. It is important to note that when statements are supported with examples, the explicit language signalling this may not always be used.

Examples as the main information in a sentence

A well-known example of this is … Another example of what is meant by X is … This is exemplified in the work undertaken by … This distinction is further exemplified in studies using … An example of this is the study carried out by Smith (2004) in which … The effectiveness of the X technique has been exemplified in a report by Smith  et al.  (2010)

This is evident in the case of … This is certainly true in the case of … The evidence of X can be clearly seen in the case of … In a similar case in America, Smith (1992) identified … This can be seen in the case of the two London physics laboratories which …

X is a good illustration of … X illustrates this point clearly. This can be illustrated briefly by … By way of illustration, Smith (2003) shows how the data for … These experiments illustrate that X and Y have distinct functions in …

For example, the word ‘doctor’ used to mean a ‘learned man’. For example, Smith and Jones (2004) conducted a series of semi-structured interviews in … Young people begin smoking for a variety of reasons. They may, for example, be influenced by ….

Examples as additional information

Young people begin smoking for a variety of reasons,  such as  pressure from peers or … The prices of resources,  such as  copper, iron ore, and aluminium, have declined over … Pavlov found that if a stimulus, for example the ringing of a bell, preceded the food, the … Many diseases can result at least in part from stress,  including : arthritis, asthma, and migraine. Gassendi kept in close contact with many other scholars,  such as  Kepler, Galileo, Descartes, and …

Reporting cases as support

This case has shown that … This has been seen in the case of … The case reported here illustrates the … Overall, these cases support the view that … This case study confirms the importance of … The evidence presented thus far supports the idea that … This case demonstrates the need for better strategies for … As this case very clearly demonstrates, it is important that … This case reveals the need for further investigation in patients with … This case demonstrates how X used innovative marketing strategies in … Recent cases reported by Smith  et al . (2013) also support the hypothesis that … In support of X, Y has been shown to induce Y in several cases (Smith  et al ., 2001).

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How to Write an Example Essay

Jered slusher.

The example essay is one of the most basic essays in academic writing, but can be extremely difficult if you've never written one or do not know what to write about. Example essays focus on one main idea which you prove with several specific, convincing examples. If you're stuck on how to write an example essay, you can follow a few simple steps to dig yourself out of the rut and write an example essay that you can be proud of.

Explore this article

• Review your example essay assignment sheet
• Brainstorm example essay topics
• Write a thesis statement for each topic
• Write down three to five examples to prove your thesis statement for each topic
• Choose the topic
• Sit down and write your example essay
• Edit your example essay
• Revise your example essay

1 Review your example essay assignment sheet

Review your example essay assignment sheet. List the criteria of the essay on a separate sheet of paper. Make note of anything that confuses you and ask your professor for clarification.

2 Brainstorm example essay topics

Brainstorm example essay topics. List three to five topics that you are interested in or would like to write about. Brainstorm ideas for what you’re going to write if the assignment is specifically about one topic. Make a sub-list for each topic that you could write about.

3 Write a thesis statement for each topic

Write a thesis statement for each topic. A thesis statement is a single sentence that you will argue in your paper. For example, if you were to write on the topic of dog training, you could have a thesis statement such as “Dogs listen better to trainers who use positive rewards instead of scolding and hitting.”

4 Write down three to five examples to prove your thesis statement for each topic

Write down three to five examples to prove your thesis statement for each topic. Use the “SEE” model as a formula for each example. “S” stands for “statement” and is a reiteration of what you’re trying to prove. For example, your statement could be that a dog trainer who rewards a dog for relieving itself outside sees faster and more permanent results than a trainer who scolds a dog for doing it inside. The first “E” stands for “example” and is the proof that you need to back up what you say in your statement. Provide specific examples to prove your statement. The last “E” stands for “Explanation” and is used to reiterate how your example ties into the thesis. For example, you might explain that because the first trainer used positive rewards, he saw better results than the trainer who scolded the dog. Therefore, trainers should use positive rewards when potty training a dog.

5 Choose the topic

Choose the topic you most want to write about. Pick the topic that is most interesting and that has enough clear and convincing examples to prove your point.

6 Sit down and write your example essay

Sit down and write your example essay. Write an introductory paragraph that gives background information into your topic and draws the reader into the essay. Write your body paragraphs using the “SEE” model examples you came up with. Write your conclusion by tying in all of the examples and restating how the examples relate to your thesis.

7 Edit your example essay

Edit your example essay. Read back through your essay and make sure that all of your examples prove your point adequately. Have a friend read your essay and ask her what she thinks could be explained more clearly.

8 Revise your example essay

Revise your example essay. Print a copy of the essay, and use a pen to go through and correct any grammar or mechanical errors that you find.

• 1 Academic Resource Center of Wheeling Jesuit University: How Do I Write an Example/Illustration Essay?

About the Author

Jered Slusher, born in 1987, has been writing online articles since 2005. His poetry and academic essays have appeared in The Ohio State University at Lima "Hog Creek Review." He holds a bachelor's in English from The Ohio State University.

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Essay Writing

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Writing an essay isn’t exactly the most entertaining thing to do with your time. Correct grammar , punctuation , and spelling are essential writing skills to be observed in order to create a good essay. Some may even consider this a dreadful task to be done, spending hours on end just to form something worth reading.

Although for others, it’s as easy as pie. They see it as a hobby or a career path, taking on part-time jobs in freelance writing . However, the ability to write good and effective short essays isn’t a skill you are born with. It is commonly developed through experience and constant practice. Writing a compelling essay requires dedication and refinement over time.

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What is Essay Writing?

Essay writing is the process of creating a structured piece of writing that presents ideas, arguments, or reflections on a specific topic. It’s a common form of academic assignment, often used in schools and universities to assess a student’s understanding and expression of various subjects. Essay writing helps students develop critical thinking and writing skills, enabling them to articulate their thoughts and ideas clearly and logically.

Structure/Format of Essay Writing

An essay typically starts with an introduction that introduces the topic and states the main point or thesis. The body, consisting of several paragraphs, each focuses on a specific idea or argument supporting the thesis, with evidence or examples. The essay concludes with a summary that reiterates the main points and restates the thesis, leaving the reader with a final thought. This structure helps organize ideas clearly and logically, making the essay easy to follow and understand.

Introduction

An introduction in essay writing serves as the opening paragraph that introduces the topic, provides context, and outlines the essay’s purpose, setting the stage for the main arguments and thesis statement.

Purpose: Introduces the topic, sets the tone, and presents the thesis statement. Key Elements: Engaging opening sentence, background information, thesis statement.

Body Paragraphs

A body paragraph is a section that presents a single main idea, supports it with evidence, and elaborates on it to strengthen the essay’s argument and structure.

Purpose: To develop and support the thesis statement. Structure: Each paragraph should focus on a single main idea or argument. Key Elements: Topic Sentence, Supporting Details and Analysis

A conclusion in essay writing summarizes key points, restates the thesis, and provides a final perspective, leaving a lasting impression.

Purpose: Summarizes the essay and reinforces the thesis statement. Key Elements: Summary of Main Points, Restatement of Thesis and Final Thoughts

10 Essay Writing Topics, Ideas with Samples (Copy & Paste)

1. the impact of technology on society.

Introduction: Technology has become an integral part of our daily lives, revolutionizing the way we communicate, work, and live. This essay explores the profound impact of technology on society, delving into both the positive advancements and the challenges it presents.

1. Advancements in Communication: Technology has transformed communication, breaking down geographical barriers and connecting people across the globe. Social media platforms, messaging apps, and video conferencing have revolutionized how we interact, fostering global communities and enabling instant information exchange.

2. Economic Transformation: The rise of the internet and e-commerce has reshaped the business landscape. Online marketplaces, digital payment systems, and automation have streamlined transactions and enhanced efficiency. However, the digital divide remains a concern, with disparities in access and opportunities between different socioeconomic groups.

3. Education and Learning: Technology has revolutionized education, providing access to a vast array of information and online courses. E-learning platforms offer flexible learning opportunities, making education more accessible to diverse learners. However, challenges such as information overload and the need for digital literacy skills persist.

4. Healthcare Innovations: Technological advancements in healthcare have led to improved diagnostics, treatment options, and patient care. Telemedicine facilitates remote consultations, enhancing healthcare accessibility. Artificial intelligence and data analytics have revolutionized medical research and personalized medicine, leading to breakthroughs in various fields.

5. Social Impact and Relationships: The pervasive use of technology has raised concerns about its impact on social relationships. While it facilitates connection, there are worries about the erosion of face-to-face interactions and the rise of online addiction. Balancing digital engagement with meaningful, in-person relationships has become a societal challenge.

Conclusion: In conclusion, technology’s impact on society is multifaceted, bringing both opportunities and challenges. Embracing the benefits of technological advancements while addressing issues such as digital inequality, privacy concerns, and social disconnection is crucial. Society must navigate these complexities thoughtfully to ensure that technology continues to enhance our lives without compromising fundamental human values and connections.

2. Impact of Climate Change on Our Planet

Introduction Climate change, a critical global issue, has far-reaching impacts on our planet. It refers to significant changes in global temperatures and weather patterns over time. While climate has changed throughout Earth’s history, recent decades have seen unprecedented changes, largely attributed to human activities. This essay explores the impact of climate change on various aspects of our planet, including natural ecosystems, weather patterns, human health, and economic sectors.

Impact on Natural Ecosystems One of the most visible impacts of climate change is on natural ecosystems. Rising temperatures and changing precipitation patterns are altering habitats globally. For instance, coral reefs, known as the rainforests of the sea, are experiencing widespread bleaching due to warmer oceans. Similarly, polar regions are facing melting ice, endangering species like polar bears and penguins. Forests are not immune either; increased temperatures and droughts lead to more frequent and intense wildfires, destroying vast areas and biodiversity.

Weather Patterns and Extreme Events Climate change has significantly altered weather patterns, leading to more extreme and unpredictable weather events. The frequency and severity of droughts, heatwaves, hurricanes, and floods have increased. For example, hurricanes are becoming more intense due to warmer ocean waters, and rising sea levels are exacerbating coastal flooding. These extreme events not only cause immediate destruction but also long-term economic and social challenges.

Human Health Concerns The impact of climate change on human health is increasingly evident. Higher temperatures contribute to heat-related illnesses and deaths. Changes in weather patterns also affect air quality, leading to respiratory issues. Furthermore, the spread of vector-borne diseases, such as malaria and dengue fever, is expected to increase as the climate warms, posing new health risks in regions previously unaffected.

Economic and Social Impacts Economically, climate change affects various sectors, including agriculture, fisheries, and tourism. Changes in temperature and precipitation patterns disrupt food production, leading to food insecurity. Fisheries are impacted by ocean acidification and changing marine ecosystems, affecting livelihoods and food supplies. Additionally, tourism in areas like coastal regions and mountain ski resorts faces challenges due to changing climate conditions.

Conclusion The impact of climate change on our planet is profound and multifaceted, affecting natural ecosystems, weather patterns, human health, and economic sectors. It is a global challenge that requires immediate and concerted efforts to mitigate and adapt to its effects. Addressing climate change involves reducing greenhouse gas emissions, preserving and restoring ecosystems, and developing sustainable practices. The time to act is now, to protect our planet for future generations.

3. Mental Health Awareness Among Youth

Mental health is a crucial aspect of overall well-being, especially among youth. It’s a pivotal period in life when individuals undergo significant physical, emotional, and social changes. Understanding and addressing mental health issues during these formative years are essential for fostering a healthy and productive society.

Identifying Mental Health Issues in Youth

Mental health issues can manifest in various ways, such as anxiety, depression, eating disorders, and behavioral problems. Often, these issues are misinterpreted as typical adolescent behavior, leading to a lack of proper intervention. Early identification of mental health issues is key to providing timely support and care.

Signs of Mental Health Issues

• Changes in mood or behavior
• Withdrawal from social interactions
• Declining academic performance
• Changes in sleeping or eating patterns
• Expressions of hopelessness or worthlessness

The Stigma Surrounding Mental Health

One of the biggest challenges in addressing mental health among youth is the stigma associated with it. This stigma often leads to reluctance in seeking help and discussing mental health issues openly.

Effects of Stigma

• Hesitation to seek help
• Lack of understanding from peers and adults
• Worsening of mental health conditions

Creating a Supportive Environment

Creating a supportive and understanding environment is vital in encouraging youth to speak about and seek help for their mental health issues.

Strategies for Support

• Educating teachers and parents about mental health
• Implementing mental health programs in schools
• Providing access to counseling and psychological services
• Encouraging peer support groups

The Role of Technology and Social Media

In today’s digital age, technology and social media play a significant role in youths’ lives, impacting their mental health both positively and negatively.

Impact of Digital Media:

• Social media can lead to issues like cyberbullying and unrealistic body image expectations.
• Technology can also be a tool for spreading awareness and providing access to resources.

Mental health awareness among youth is not just a necessity but an imperative for building a resilient, empathetic, and healthy society. Through education, support, and open conversations, we can empower our youth to face life’s challenges with strength and optimism. Creating an environment where mental health is prioritized and discussed openly will pave the way for a more understanding and supportive community, ensuring a brighter future for all.

4. Artificial Intelligence: Boon or Bane?

Introduction: In the realm of technology, artificial intelligence (AI) stands as a monumental innovation, reshaping how we live, work, and interact. But as with any significant technological advancement, AI’s impact on society sparks a crucial debate: Is it a boon or a bane? This essay delves into the multifaceted nature of AI, examining its benefits and challenges, ultimately aiming to provide a balanced perspective.

The Boon of AI

• Enhancement of Efficiency and Productivity AI systems excel in processing vast amounts of data rapidly, significantly outpacing human capabilities. This trait has transformed industries by streamlining operations, from manufacturing with automated robotics to healthcare where AI aids in diagnosis and treatment planning.
• Innovation in Various Fields AI fosters innovation across diverse sectors. In education, personalized learning algorithms adapt to individual student needs, enhancing the learning experience. In environmental science, AI assists in climate modeling and conservation efforts, contributing to a more sustainable future.
• Improvement in Quality of Life AI’s impact on daily life is profound. Smart home devices offer convenience and enhanced security, while AI-driven personal assistants, like voice-activated systems, simplify tasks. Moreover, AI’s role in healthcare, from robotic surgeries to predictive diagnostics, has been life-altering for many.

The Bane of AI

• Job Displacement Concerns One of the most significant fears surrounding AI is job displacement. Automation and AI systems could replace human roles, particularly in sectors like manufacturing and customer service, leading to unemployment and economic disparities.
• Ethical and Privacy Issues AI’s ability to analyze personal data raises privacy concerns. Issues like data misuse and surveillance have prompted debates on ethical guidelines and regulations. Furthermore, AI’s decision-making processes, if not transparent, can lead to ethical dilemmas in areas like law enforcement and lending.
• Dependency and Reduced Human Skill An over-reliance on AI could lead to a decline in critical human skills. For instance, excessive use of navigational AI may impair our natural sense of direction, and dependence on AI for decision-making could diminish our problem-solving abilities.

Conclusion: AI, like any powerful tool, comes with its set of pros and cons. While it offers remarkable advancements and efficiencies, it also presents significant challenges and risks. The key lies in harnessing AI’s potential responsibly, with mindful consideration of ethical implications and a balanced approach to technology integration. By doing so, we can steer AI towards being more of a boon than a bane, ensuring it serves to enhance, rather than dictate, the course of human progress.

5. Sustainable Living and Environmental Conservation

Sustainable Living and Environmental Conservation are vital concepts in today’s world, as they focus on maintaining the health of our planet for future generations. This essay explores the importance of sustainable living and the various ways in which individuals and communities can contribute to environmental conservation.

Understanding Sustainable Living

Sustainable living refers to a lifestyle that attempts to reduce an individual’s or society’s use of the Earth’s natural resources. This practice advocates for:

• Reducing Carbon Footprint : Limiting activities that contribute to carbon emissions, such as excessive use of fossil fuels.
• Conserving Water : Implementing water-saving techniques like rainwater harvesting and fixing leaks.
• Minimizing Waste : Promoting recycling, composting, and the reduction of single-use plastics.

Environmental Conservation: A Global Priority

Environmental conservation involves protecting and preserving the natural world. Its significance lies in:

• Biodiversity Protection : Ensuring the survival of diverse species and ecosystems.
• Climate Change Mitigation : Addressing global warming through sustainable practices.
• Resource Preservation : Ensuring that natural resources are available for future generations.

Implementing Sustainable Practices

Adopting sustainable habits can have a profound impact. Key practices include:

• Energy Efficiency : Using energy-saving appliances and LED lighting.
• Sustainable Transportation : Favoring walking, cycling, and public transport over individual car use.
• Eco-Friendly Products : Choosing products with minimal environmental impact, like biodegradable packaging.

Community and Global Efforts

Beyond individual actions, larger scale efforts are crucial:

• Government Policies : Implementing regulations that promote sustainability, like renewable energy incentives.
• Corporate Responsibility : Encouraging businesses to adopt sustainable practices in their operations.
• Educational Initiatives : Raising awareness about environmental issues through education and community programs.

Challenges and Future Perspectives

While the journey towards sustainability presents challenges such as economic constraints and resistance to change, the future looks promising with technological advancements and increasing global awareness. It’s essential that:

• Innovation Continues : Developing new technologies for renewable energy and sustainable agriculture.
• Collaborative Efforts Increase : Fostering partnerships between governments, businesses, and communities.
• Sustainable Values Are Cultivated : Encouraging a cultural shift towards valuing and protecting our environment.

Sustainable living and environmental conservation are not just choices, but necessities for the health and survival of our planet. It’s a collective responsibility that requires the participation of individuals, communities, and nations. By embracing sustainable practices and advocating for environmental conservation, we can ensure a healthier, more equitable, and sustainable world for future generations.

6. The Influence of Social Media on Teenagers

In the digital age, social media has become a pivotal aspect of teenagers’ lives. Its impact is profound and multifaceted, influencing various aspects of their social, emotional, and educational development. This essay explores the positive and negative effects of social media on teenagers and suggests ways to mitigate its adverse impacts.

Positive Impacts of Social Media

1. Connectivity and Socialization: Social media platforms like Facebook, Instagram, and Snapchat offer teenagers a space to connect with friends and family, fostering a sense of belonging and community. They can interact with peers from different parts of the world, learn about diverse cultures, and form new friendships.

2. Educational Resources: Platforms such as YouTube and educational blogs provide an abundance of learning materials. Teenagers can access tutorials, e-books, and online courses, aiding their academic growth and supplementing their school education.

3. Self-Expression and Creativity: Social media is a canvas for self-expression. Teenagers can share their thoughts, artwork, and achievements, receiving encouragement and feedback. This boosts their confidence and nurtures their creative talents.

Negative Impacts of Social Media

1. Cyberbullying and Peer Pressure: The anonymity and distance provided by social media can lead to cyberbullying. Teens often face pressure to conform to certain trends or behaviors, affecting their mental health and self-esteem.

2. Distraction and Academic Decline: Excessive use of social media can become a major distraction, leading to reduced concentration and a decline in academic performance. The constant need to check notifications disrupts study routines and hinders productivity.

3. Mental Health Issues: Studies have linked prolonged social media use to mental health issues like anxiety, depression, and loneliness in teenagers. The pressure to maintain a certain image and the fear of missing out (FOMO) can be overwhelming.

Mitigating the Negative Impacts

1. Educating on Digital Literacy: Schools and parents should educate teenagers about responsible social media usage. Understanding digital footprints, privacy settings, and the importance of online etiquette is crucial.

2. Encouraging Offline Interactions: Promoting real-life interactions and activities can balance online engagement. Participating in sports, clubs, and family activities helps develop social skills away from the digital world.

3. Setting Boundaries: Implementing rules on the amount of time spent on social media can be effective. Encouraging designated ‘tech-free’ times during meals or before bed can help in establishing healthy habits.

Social media’s influence on teenagers is undeniable. While it offers significant benefits in terms of connectivity, learning, and self-expression, the risks associated with cyberbullying, distraction, and mental health cannot be overlooked. By educating teenagers about the responsible use of social media and encouraging a balanced lifestyle, the negative impacts can be mitigated, harnessing its positive potential for their holistic development.

7. Equality and Diversity in the 21st Century

In the 21st century, the concepts of equality and diversity have evolved significantly, reflecting a world that is increasingly interconnected and diverse. This essay explores the importance of equality and diversity, their impact on society, and the challenges and opportunities they present in today’s global landscape.

The Importance of Equality and Diversity

Equality and diversity are foundational to a just and vibrant society. Equality ensures that every individual has an equal opportunity to make the most of their lives and talents. It is not only about treating individuals in the same way but also about recognizing and valuing differences to contribute and realize their full potential. Diversity, on the other hand, refers to the range of human differences, including but not limited to race, ethnicity, gender, gender identity, sexual orientation, age, social class, physical ability or attributes, religious or ethical values system, and national origin. Embracing diversity means understanding, accepting, and valuing differences between people.

Impact on Society

The synergy of equality and diversity has a profound impact on society. It fosters innovation and creativity by bringing together a wide range of perspectives and experiences. Organizations and societies that embrace diversity and equality tend to be more dynamic, creative, and successful. In education, a diverse and inclusive environment encourages critical thinking and exposes students to a broader range of perspectives, preparing them for global citizenship.

Challenges and Opportunities

Despite the clear benefits, achieving equality and diversity in the 21st century comes with challenges. Discrimination and inequality persist in many forms and settings. Stereotyping and prejudice can lead to exclusion and marginalization of certain groups. However, these challenges present opportunities. There is a growing awareness and activism around issues of inequality and discrimination. Technology and globalization have given rise to new platforms for voices advocating for change and equality.

Role of Education and Policy

Education plays a critical role in fostering equality and diversity. Curricula that incorporate diverse perspectives and histories can promote understanding and respect for differences. Policy-making also has a significant impact. Laws and regulations that promote equality, prevent discrimination, and protect the rights of minorities are essential for a fair society.

In conclusion, equality and diversity are not just ideals to be aspired to; they are essential components of a healthy, dynamic, and just society. The challenges in achieving these are substantial, but the opportunities they present are transformative. By embracing these principles, societies can build a foundation for a more inclusive, innovative, and equitable world.

8. The Future of Work Post-Pandemic

The COVID-19 pandemic has irreversibly transformed the landscape of work. As we transition into the post-pandemic era, it is vital to explore how these changes will continue to influence the workplace. This essay examines the emerging trends and potential future of work, considering the shifts in work culture, technology, and employee expectations.

Shift to Remote and Hybrid Models

One of the most significant changes is the widespread adoption of remote and hybrid work models. Companies have realized that many jobs can be done effectively from home, leading to a reevaluation of the need for physical office spaces. This shift has benefits such as reduced commute times and greater flexibility, enhancing work-life balance for employees.

• Increased Remote Opportunities : Companies are now more open to hiring remote employees, broadening the talent pool.
• Hybrid Work Environments : A blend of in-office and remote work is becoming the norm, offering flexibility and maintaining team collaboration.

Technological Advancements

The pandemic has accelerated the adoption of technology in the workplace. From virtual meetings to cloud-based collaboration tools, technology is at the forefront of this new work era.

• Collaboration Tools : Platforms like Zoom, Slack, and Microsoft Teams have become indispensable for remote teamwork.
• Artificial Intelligence and Automation : These technologies are streamlining processes and improving efficiency, but also raising questions about job security and skill requirements.

Changing Employee Expectations

Employees’ priorities and expectations have evolved, leading to a shift in workplace dynamics.

• Emphasis on Well-being : Workers are now more focused on mental health and work-life balance.
• Desire for Meaningful Work : There is a growing trend towards seeking work that is fulfilling and aligns with personal values.

This new era of work is not without its challenges. Issues such as digital inequality, maintaining company culture, and managing remote teams effectively are at the forefront. However, these challenges also present opportunities for innovation and growth.

• Inclusive and Diverse Workplaces : Remote work allows for a more diverse workforce, but it requires deliberate efforts to ensure inclusivity.
• Sustainable Practices : The reduction in commuting and office usage can contribute to environmental sustainability.

The post-pandemic future of work is characterized by flexibility, technological integration, and a new set of employee expectations. While navigating this landscape presents challenges, it also offers opportunities for creating more inclusive, efficient, and fulfilling work environments. As we move forward, it is crucial for both employers and employees to adapt and embrace these changes to thrive in the evolving world of work.

9. Space Exploration and Its Importance

Space exploration , a journey into the unknown, the endless cosmos, holds a significant place in the advancement of human knowledge and technology. Over the years, exploring space has not only fueled our imagination but also brought about groundbreaking discoveries and innovations. This essay delves into the importance of space exploration, highlighting its impact on science, technology, and humanity.

Unlocking the Mysteries of the Universe

Space exploration allows us to understand the cosmos beyond our planet. Through missions like the Hubble Space Telescope and the Mars rovers, we have gained invaluable insights into the formation of galaxies, the lifecycle of stars, and the possibility of life on other planets. These discoveries not only satisfy our natural curiosity but also enhance our understanding of Earth’s place in the universe.

Advancing Scientific Knowledge and Innovation

The pursuit of space exploration has led to significant technological advancements. Innovations developed for space missions often find applications on Earth. For instance, satellite technology, essential for GPS and weather forecasting, was born out of space research. Similarly, advancements in materials science, robotics, and computer technology can all trace their roots back to space exploration.

Inspiring Future Generations

Space exploration stands as a testament to human ingenuity and perseverance. It inspires young minds to pursue careers in science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM). The achievements of astronauts and the allure of exploring the unknown ignite the imagination of students, encouraging them to dream big and push the boundaries of what is possible.

Fostering International Collaboration

Space missions often require global cooperation, uniting countries in a common goal. International space stations and joint missions demonstrate how collaboration can transcend geopolitical boundaries, fostering peace and mutual understanding among nations. This cooperation in space exploration serves as a model for addressing other global challenges.

Preparing for Future Challenges

Understanding celestial phenomena like asteroids and solar flares is crucial for protecting Earth. Space exploration equips us with the knowledge and tools to predict and mitigate potential threats from space. Moreover, exploring celestial bodies like Mars or the Moon could pave the way for future colonization, ensuring the long-term survival of humanity.

Economic Benefits

Investing in space exploration has significant economic returns. It stimulates industries related to aerospace, engineering, and research, creating jobs and boosting economic growth. The technology developed often leads to new products and services, further enhancing economic development.

Space exploration is not just about reaching new frontiers but about the benefits it brings to life on Earth. It enriches our understanding of the universe, drives technological innovation, inspires future generations, fosters international cooperation, prepares us for future challenges, and stimulates economic growth. The journey into space, therefore, is not an optional pursuit but a necessary endeavor for the advancement and well-being of humanity.

10. Cultural Heritage and Its Preservation

Cultural heritage encompasses the traditions, values, and historical sites that are inherited from past generations. It is a reflection of a community’s identity and plays a crucial role in shaping the future. This essay explores the significance of cultural heritage and the importance of its preservation.

The Essence of Cultural Heritage

Cultural heritage is not just about historical artifacts and monuments. It includes intangible aspects like folklore, music, language, and rituals. These elements provide a sense of belonging and continuity in a rapidly changing world. For instance, traditional festivals and ceremonies are more than just events; they are the carriers of stories, beliefs, and customs.

Threats to Cultural Heritage

Cultural heritage faces numerous threats, including urbanization, environmental degradation, and globalization. Urban development often leads to the destruction of historical sites. Pollution can damage irreplaceable artifacts, and the global spread of a uniform culture threatens the uniqueness of local customs and traditions. Conflict and war also pose significant risks to cultural heritage, as seen in the destruction of historical sites in various parts of the world.

Importance of Preservation

Preserving cultural heritage is essential for maintaining community identity and fostering an understanding of our history. It aids in the retention of cultural diversity in a globalized world. For example, preserving indigenous languages helps maintain unique worldviews and knowledge systems.

Methods of Preservation

Digital Preservation: Technological advancements enable the digital preservation of cultural artifacts. Digitizing documents, artworks, and music ensures their longevity and accessibility to future generations.

Legal Protections: Implementing laws to protect cultural heritage sites and practices is crucial. These laws can prevent unauthorized alterations to historical sites and safeguard intangible cultural elements.

Community Engagement: Involving local communities in preservation efforts ensures that practices and sites are maintained in a culturally respectful and sustainable manner.

Education and Awareness: Educating the public about the value of cultural heritage can foster a sense of responsibility towards preservation. School curricula that include local history and cultural studies can inspire younger generations to appreciate and preserve their cultural heritage.

Cultural heritage is a vital link to our past and a gift to our future. Its preservation requires collaborative efforts between governments, communities, and individuals. By valuing and protecting our cultural heritage, we ensure that the richness of our past continues to enlighten our present and guide our future.

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4. Free Essay Writing Plan Example

5. Argumentative Essay Writing Middle School

6. Example of Essay Writing Format

7. Composition Essay Writing Example

8. Photo Essay Writing Example

9. Essay Writing Example For Students

10. Argumentative Essay Writing Example

11. Academic Essay Writing Example

12. Advanced Essay Writing Example

13. Critical Essay Writing Example

14. Descriptive Essay Sample Example

15. Education Essay Writing Example

16. Self-Evaluation Essay Example

17. Leadership and Profile Essay Writing

18. Histographic Narrative Essay Sample Example

19. Nursing Essay Writing Example

20. Persuasive Application Essay Example

21. Short Personal Writing Example

22. Sample Vacation Writing Example

What Is an Essay Outline?

An essay outline is a collection of thoughts and ideas relevant to the subject matter. It serves as a guide for writers to properly organize their thoughts into paragraphs. Writing templates are quite useful for essays with topics that are unfamiliar to the writer. It also allows the writer to properly reorganize points and research further on unclear statements. This will make it easier for the writer to emphasize important points properly.

What to Include in a Creative Essay

Creative essay writing is simply freestyle writing. It’s about being open-minded and imaginative with your thoughts. There are no exact rules being set but instead, it takes on a more narrative writing approach to the standard essay writing. It is an informal type of essay writing as opposed to those of formal writing examples, such as in argumentative college application examples , in essay writing. Creative essays must have a topic. It may be about personal experiences or fictional beliefs. Make sure that the essay has a purpose, to either inform or entertain readers with interesting details. Although this isn’t the standard way of writing, it’s still important to emphasize the point of your essay.

Types of Essay Writing

• Narrative Essay : Tells a story, often personal, with a central theme or point.
• Descriptive Essay : Paints a picture using detailed observations and descriptions.
• Expository Essay : Provides factual information on a topic, explaining ideas without personal opinions.
• Persuasive Essay : Aims to convince the reader of a certain point of view or argument.
• Compare and Contrast Essay : Discusses similarities and differences between two subjects.
• Cause and Effect Essay : Explores the reasons (causes) for something and the results (effects) of those reasons.
• Problem-Solution Essay : Identifies a problem and proposes one or more solutions.
• Definition Essay : Explains the meaning of a term or a concept.
• Argumentative Essay : Presents a balanced view of a controversial issue, arguing for one side.
• Critical Essay : Analyzes the strengths, weaknesses, and methods of a certain subject, such as a piece of art or literature.
• Analytical Essay : Breaks down a concept or issue into its key components, examining them in detail.
• Process Essay : Gives step-by-step instructions on how to do something or how something is done.
• Reflective Essay : Shares the writer’s personal experiences or thoughts on a topic, reflecting on the deeper meaning.

How to Write an Essay? – Step by Step Guide

• Understand the Assignment: Carefully read the essay prompt or assignment instructions. Ensure you understand the topic, purpose, and any specific requirements, such as word count or formatting.
• Choose Your Topic : Sometimes you might have a topic assigned, or you may need to choose one. Pick a topic that interests you and can be explored in depth.
• Research Your Topic : Gather information from various sources like books, websites, or academic journals. Take notes to keep track of important points and references.
• Create a Thesis Statement : This is the main point of your essay. Your thesis statement should clearly state your position or the central argument of your essay.
• Outline Your Essay : Plan the structure of your essay. Typically, this includes an introduction, body paragraphs, and a conclusion.
• Write the Introduction : Start with a hook to grab the reader’s attention, followed by a few sentences leading to your thesis statement.
• Develop the Body Paragraphs : Each paragraph should focus on a single idea that supports your thesis. Start with a topic sentence, then add examples, evidence, and explanations.
• Write the Conclusion : Summarize your main points and restate your thesis in a new way. Provide a final thought or call to action to leave the reader with something to think about.

Do’s & Don’ts in a Essay Writing

Tips for Writing an Essay

• Clear and Concise Topic : Choose a well-defined and concise topic for your essay. A focused topic makes it easier to convey your message effectively.
• Solid Thesis Statement : Craft a strong thesis statement that clearly states the main argument or purpose of your essay. This statement should be specific and debatable.
• Outline Your Essay : Before writing, create an outline with a clear structure, including an introduction, body paragraphs, and a conclusion. This will help you stay organized.
• Engaging Introduction : Start your essay with an engaging introduction that hooks the reader. You can use an anecdote, a surprising fact, or a relevant quote to grab attention.
• Well-Structured Body : Each body paragraph should have a clear topic sentence, supporting evidence, and a transition to the next point. Make sure your arguments flow logically.
• Use Strong Evidence : Back up your claims with strong evidence, examples, and relevant data. Quality evidence enhances the credibility of your essay.
• Effective Transitions : Use transitional words and phrases to connect ideas and paragraphs smoothly. This ensures that your essay flows coherently.

Guidelines for Essay Writing

Although we have to admit that writing an essay is not an easy task, being able to finish one is such a rewarding experience especially if it is an assignment you have to pass the next day. There is no perfect solution on how to write an effective essay.

However, there are certain guideline which you can use in order for you to make that outstanding essay.

• Choose your topic. Deciding what essay to write starts with choosing the right topic. Don’t just write something that everybody is interested to write about. Rather, pick a topic that you are most excited to write about so it would be easier for you to express your thoughts.
• Create a mind map . A mind map is a sketch of form or an essay outline used to organize information. This is best in order for you to logically express your thoughts and to present it in a coherent manner. Write your ideas in a draft paper and choose which ones to come first and which ones to use as your supporting arguments.
• Compose yourself. Having the right disposition is important in writing an essay. You need to have focus so that while you are writing, you are not distracted by outside thoughts which could ruin your momentum.

Why Is Essay Writing Important?

Essay writing skills is a difficult and time-consuming task. There’s more to it than mere writing, it involves researching and assembling of ideas. One may see it as a burden given by school teachers or college professors for extra credit, but we often fail to recognize how essay writing actually helps develop our logical thinking. Essay writing allows individuals to think critically and logically. Not only do you gain knowledge on a particular subject matter but you also learn how to express your thoughts through reasoning. The skills you’ll develop may even be useful in business writing. Some business writing examples include formal documents for reports and memos.

How do I start writing an essay?

To start writing an essay, first understand the assignment, choose a topic, create an outline, and craft a compelling introduction with a clear thesis statement.

What is a good sentence to start an essay?

A strong start to an essay could be: “In an age of rapid technological advancements, the impact of digitalization on society is undeniable, reshaping our lives in profound ways.”

What should an essay look like?

An essay typically comprises an introduction with a thesis statement, several body paragraphs presenting arguments with supporting evidence, and a conclusion summarizing key points and restating the thesis.

How do you start an introduction for an essay example?

Begin an essay introduction by grabbing the reader’s attention with a hook, offering background information on the topic, and concluding with a clear thesis statement that outlines your main argument.

What is a thesis statement?

A thesis statement is a concise summary of the main point or claim of an essay, guiding the direction and focus of the writing.

How do you structure an essay?

An essay typically follows a structure of introduction, body paragraphs, and conclusion, ensuring a logical flow of ideas and arguments.

What is the importance of an essay outline?

An essay outline helps organize thoughts, ensures a coherent structure, and makes the writing process more efficient and focused.

How do you write a strong conclusion?

A strong conclusion summarizes key points, reinforces the thesis, and leaves a lasting impression or call to action for the reader.

What are some tips for writing a persuasive essay?

To write a persuasive essay, use logical arguments, credible evidence, and emotional appeals, while addressing counterarguments effectively.

How do you improve essay coherence?

Improve essay coherence by using clear transitions, maintaining a logical flow of ideas, and ensuring each paragraph supports the thesis statement.

Text prompt

• Instructive
• Professional

Write an Essay on the role of community service in personal development.

Create an Essay about the impact of digital literacy on modern education.

5 Expository Essay Examples (Full Text with Citations)

Chris Drew (PhD)

Dr. Chris Drew is the founder of the Helpful Professor. He holds a PhD in education and has published over 20 articles in scholarly journals. He is the former editor of the Journal of Learning Development in Higher Education. [Image Descriptor: Photo of Chris]

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• Video Overview
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An expository essay attempts to explain a topic in-depth, demonstrating expert knowledge and understanding.

This form of essay is structured around the clear, factual presentation of information, devoid of the writer’s personal opinions or arguments.

The primary goal is to inform or explain rather than persuade.

Unlike an argumentative essay, which is built around defending a particular point of view with evidence and persuasion, an expository essay maintains a neutral stance, focusing on delivering straightforward facts and explanations.

An example of expository writing could be an article explaining the process of photosynthesis.

The article would systematically describe each stage of how plants convert sunlight into energy, detailing the role of sunlight, water, and carbon dioxide.

It would explain the sequence of reactions – first, second, third, fourth, fifth – that occur and the importance of each step in supporting the life of the plant.

An expository essay generally follows this essay format:

• A) To persuade the reader to adopt a particular viewpoint
• B) To inform or explain a topic clearly
• C) To present the writer’s personal opinions and arguments
• D) To entertain the reader with creative writing
• A) An expository essay uses creative storytelling techniques
• B) An expository essay remains neutral and avoids personal opinions
• C) An expository essay focuses on persuading the reader with evidence
• D) An expository essay prioritizes the writer’s personal experiences

Expository Essay Examples

#1 impacts of technology on education.

955 words | 4 Pages | 15 References

Thesis Statement: “The integration of technology in education represents a complex and critical area of study crucial for understanding and shaping the future of educational practices.”

#2 Impacts of Globalization on Education

1450 words | 5 Pages | 9 References

Thesis Statement: “This essay examines the profound and multifaceted effects of globalization on education, exploring how technological advancements and policy reforms have transformed access to, delivery of, and perceptions of education.”

#3 The Role of Emotional Intelligence in Interpersonal Relationships

1211 Words | 5 Pages | 22 References

Thesis Statement: “The central thesis is that EI, defined as the ability to perceive, understand, and manage emotions, is a crucial determinant of success and well-being.”

#4 The Future of Renewable Energy Sources and Their Impact

870 words | 4 Pages | 20 References

Thesis Statement: “The essay posits that although renewable energy sources hold immense promise for a sustainable future, their full integration into the global energy grid presents significant challenges that must be addressed through technological innovation, economic investment, and policy initiatives.”

#5 The Psychology Behind Consumer Behavior

1053 words | 4 Pages | 17 References

Thesis Statement: “The thesis of this essay is that consumer behavior is not merely a product of rational decision-making; it is deeply rooted in psychological processes, both conscious and subconscious, that drive consumers’ choices and actions.”

How to Write an Expository Essay

Unlike argumentative or persuasive essays, expository essays do not aim to convince the reader of a particular point of view.

Instead, they focus on providing a balanced and thorough explanation of a subject.

Key characteristics of an expository essay include:

• Clarity and Conciseness
• Structured Organization (Introduction, Body, Conclusion)
• Objective Tone
• Evidence-Based (Cite academic sources in every body paragraph)
• Objective thesis statement (see below)
• Informative purpose (Not argumentative)

You can follow my expository essay templates with AI prompts to help guide you through the expository essay writing process:

How to write a Thesis Statement for an Expository Essay

An expository thesis statement doesn’t make an argument or try to persuade. It uses ‘is’ rather than ‘ought’ statements.

Take these comparisons  below. Note how the expository thesis statements don’t prosecute an argument or attempt to persuade, while the argumentative thesis statements clearly take a side on an issue:

💡 AI Prompt for Generating Sample Expository Thesis Statements An expository essay’s thesis statement should be objective rather than argumentative. Write me five broad expository thesis statement ideas on the topic “[TOPIC]”.

Go Deeper: 101 Thesis Statement Examples

Differences Between Expository and Argumentative Essays

Expository and argumentative essays are both common writing styles in academic and professional contexts, but they serve different purposes and follow different structures.

Here are the key differences between them:

• Expository Essay : The primary purpose is to explain, describe, or inform about a topic. It focuses on clarifying a subject or process, providing understanding and insight.
• Argumentative Essay : The goal is to persuade the reader to accept a particular point of view or to take a specific action. It’s about presenting a stance and supporting it with evidence and logic.
• Expository Essay : It maintains a neutral and objective tone. The writer presents information factually and impartially, without expressing personal opinions or biases.
• Argumentative Essay : It often adopts a more assertive, persuasive, and subjective tone. The writer takes a clear position and argues in favor of it, using persuasive language.
• Expository Essay : The reader is expected to gain knowledge, understand a process, or become informed about a topic. There’s no expectation for the reader to agree or disagree.
• Argumentative Essay : The reader is encouraged to consider the writer’s viewpoint, evaluate arguments, and possibly be persuaded to adopt a new perspective or take action.

Go Deeper: Expository vs Argumentative Essays

Ready to Write your Essay?

Take action! Choose one of the following options to start writing your expository essay now:

Read Next: Process Essay Examples

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There will be many times during your life where you might be asked to write an essay. This can be an intimidating prospect, especially if you are not clear on exactly what an essay is and how it is meant to be written. In this article, we are going to be looking a little more closely at what an essay is and what it’s purpose is as well as looking at the various types of essay. We are also going to be looking at some examples to give us a further understanding on the subject.

What Is An Essay?

In the most simple terms, an essay is a short piece of writing which is set around a specific topic or subject. The piece of writing will give information surrounding the topic but will also display the opinions and thoughts of the author.

Often times, an essay is used in an academic sense by way of examination in order to determine whether a student has understood their studies and as a way of testing their knowledge on a specific subject. An essay is also used in education as a way of encouraging a student to develop their writing skills.

Types Of Essays

When it comes to writing an essay, there is not simply one type, there are in fact, quite a few types of essay and each of them have their own purpose and function. We are now going to take a look at each of these in a little more detail.

Narrative Essays

A narrative essay is one which details a story, often times from a particular point of view. When writing a narrative essay, you should include a set of characters, a location, a good plot and a climax to the story.

You will use the plot as a way of detailing events within the story and whilst these are commonly in time order, you may feel free to time hop and include flashes from history or the future.

It is vital that, when writing this type of essay you use fine details to do allow the reader to feel emotion and use their senses but also give the story the chance to make a point. The point of the essay should be mentioned early on, preferably in the opening line, but if not certainly within the introduction paragraph . You should also write this type of essay in either the third or first person and unlike a creative writing story, should always be based around fact. Let’s now take a look at an extract from a narrative essay, this is from A Ticket To The Fair written by David Wallace Foster.

It is press day today at the state fair in Springfield, Illinois and I am meant to be there in the fairground at 9am in order to get my credentials. I think of these as a small card in the band around a hat. I had never been thought of as press until now. But my true interest in the credentials is being able to get onto the rides and into the shows for free. I have come in from the East coast, fresh and ready for one of their magazines. It isn’t clear to me why they have an interest in this state fair but I expect that the editors realise, from time to time that most of the USA live away from the coast and that they will employ someone like me to do a spot of rural reporting. I’m thinking that they had asked me to report this as I grew up here. I had never been to the state fair. In fact I have not been back here for quite some time and I cannot say that I have missed it.

Descriptive Essay

A descriptive essay will describe something in great detail. The subject can be anything from people and places to objects and events but the main point is to go into depth. You might describe the item’s colour, where it came from, what it looks like, smells like, tastes like or how it feels.

It is very important to allow the reader to sense what you are writing about and allow them to feel some sort of emotion whilst reading. That being said, the information should be concise and easy to understand, the use of imagery is widely used in this style of essay. We will now take a look at a passage from a descriptive essay, this one is from The Orchestra Played On written by Joanna Lipman .

The hinge creaks as I open the decrepit case. I am greeted by flowing cascades of horsehair-the bow is a victim of the mites. It is agony when I twist my fingers to the position, but to my surprise and the surprise of my children-who were yet to hear me play- I was still able to make a sound.

Expository Essay

An expository essay is used as a way to look into a problem and therefore compare it and explore it. For the expository essay there is a little bit of storytelling involved but this type of essay goes beyond that. The main idea is that it should explain an idea giving information and explanation.

Your expository essay should be simple and easy to understand as well as giving a variety of view points on the subject that is being discussed. Often times this type of essay is used as a way to detail a subject which is usually more difficult for people to understand, in a clear and concise manner. Let’s take a look at this excerpt from How Chinese Mothers Are Superior written by Amy Chua.

I am using the phrase Chinese mom loosely. I know of some Indian. Irish, Jamaican, Ghanaian and Korean parents who fit the bill too. I also know Chinese moms, mostly born in the west that are not Chinese moms. I am also using the phrase parents of the west loosely. These come in many varieties. That being said, even the parents of the west believe that they are strict, they’re not nearly as strict as Chinese moms. For example, my friends from the west who think of themselves as strict, make their kids play instruments for just half an hour each day. For a Chinese mom, the first sixty minutes are the easiest, it’s the second and third hours that are tough.

Argumentative Essay

When writing an argumentative essay , you will be attempting to convince your reader about an opinion or point of view. The idea is to show the reader whether the topic is true or false along with giving your own opinion. It is very important that you use facts and data to back up any claims that made within the essay. We will now look at a passage from the argumentative essay titled The Flight From Conversation written by Sherry Turkle.

We have become used to this new concept being alone, together. Enabled by technology, we can be with each other as well as being somewhere else, we can be connected to anywhere we wish to be. We wish to be able to customise our life. We wish to be able to move in or out of anywhere we are as what we most value is having control over where our attention is focused. We are used to the concept of being, loyal to our own and in a tribe.

Other Types Of Essays

Whilst there are four main types of essay, there are some more, less common types. Despite not being within the main four, these types of essay are still important and each serve their own purpose. We are now going to take a look at each of these in a little more detail.

Definition Essays

This is a type of essay which is used to define an idea, thing or concept.

Simple Essays

This is, as its name would suggest, a simple essay which is made up from five paragraphs and can be written on any subject.

Persuasive Essays

The persuasive essay is one which can be used as a way of convincing the readers of an idea. It might also be used in order to convince the reader not to do a particular thing, or indeed to do it..

Rhetorical Analysis Essays

This type of essay is used as a way of analysing a piece of rhetoric or a speech and looks at any rhetorical devices which have been used.

Analytical Essays

As the name of this type of essay might suggest, it is an essay which is used to analyse something. This could be a piece of writing, a movie or anything else. The idea is that the analytical essay will look at what it is analysing from various viewpoints allowing the reader to form their own opinion.

Compare And Contrast Essays

When writing a compare and contrast essay , the author will be using it as a way of creating a comparison between two things or finding a contrast between them. But it is not limited to one or the other, you can also write a compare and contrast essay to do both of these things in one.

Cause And Effect Essays

This is a type of essay which allows the author to explain the cause of a certain thing as well as being able to explain the effects of it.

Critical Essays

When writing a critical essay, the author will be writing about a piece of literature and evaluating it. They will use the good and bad points of the piece in order to do this.

Process Essays

The process essay is a way of outlining or detailing a process. This is done by breaking down the process so that the readers are able to understand it and even perform the process themselves once they have read the essay.

Synthesis Essays

This is a type of essay which is used as a way to synthesis various concepts in order to create a judgement on their good and bad points.

Review Essays

The review essay is one which looks at a piece of literature and gives a review on it based around the good and bad points within it.

Research Essays

The research essay is one which is written based on a research question and aims to give a specific answer to it. The author will research the subject as a way of providing an answer to the question that was posed.

Explanatory Essays

This type of essay is used as way to explain any given piece of written work or literature. They can be written on a variety of types of literature such as poetry, novels or a short story.

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Common Writing Assignments

8 The Examples Essay

An examples essay supports, develops, and defends its thesis in a series of paragraphs, each of which typically illustrates one way in which the thesis statement can be supported.

If you were writing an essay on “Common Minor Penalties in Hockey,” you might have one body paragraph on tripping, one on interference, and one on roughing. If you were doing a longer assignment, such as a survey of all penalties in hockey, you could subdivide your essay into examples of minor, major, and match penalties, each section of which would require more than one paragraph. The conclusion needs to provide readers with that important sense of closure, asserting that the examples have affirmed the thesis and possibly reminding readers of the benefits your information has provided: Hockey is more entertaining to watch when we understand why players are sometimes sent to the penalty box.

To better understand what an examples essay is, read carefully this essay, which describes examples of the red wine grapes of British Columbia.

Example: Red Wine Grapes of British Columbia

Oenophiles and even less devoted wine drinkers are more likely to associate red wine production with France, Italy, and California than Canada. Yet British Columbia is home now to some excellent estate wineries, especially in the Okanagan region, the climate of which is conducive to the growth of the finest red wine grapes. British Columbia vintners grow and harvest Merlot, Cabernet Sauvignon, and Pinot Noir grapes to produce red wines, which are growing in quality and reputation.

The Merlot grape is dark blue. It is cultivated by vintners in virtually every wine-producing regions of the world. It is the red wine grape that BC vintners plant and harvest most frequently (Pawsey 2). It produces excellent varietal wines, which are those made mainly from the juice of a single type of grape (“Varietal”). The Merlot grapes grown in British Columbia are high in tannins, a substance found in the skin of the grape, which gives BC Merlots a pleasantly dry and bitter taste, redolent of unsweetened black tea (“Tannins”).  The tannins combined with the red fruit flavours from the juice of the grape mellow out the taste of a Merlot wine, producing a medium-bodied, earthy sensation on the tongue. BC Merlots pair well with most foods, though vegetarians and pescatarians will usually prefer a lighter-bodied red.

The Cabernet Sauvignon grape is hardy enough to thrive in all wine-producing climates, including in the Okanagan, with its sometimes severe temperature fluctuations. It produces wine darker in colour than the Merlot but with less tannins (“Cabernet”). BC “cab savs” are usually full-bodied with moderate acidity. Skilled wine drinkers can taste cherry and mint working in harmony in a fine Cabernet Sauvignon wine (“Cabernet”). This is the carnivore’s grape, pairing well with meat lovers’ pizza, rare steak, baked ham, lamb chops, and thick pulled-pork sandwiches.

If the Cabernet Sauvignon is the muscle grape, the Pinot Noir is the delicate and sensitive member of the family. It is more susceptible than others to disease, and even when it is harvested successfully and made into wine, the wine it produces is fickle, sometimes outstanding, sometimes disappointing (Pawsey 3).  British Columbia’s climate should not be conducive to growing the pinot noir grape, but has become so, as one of the few fortunate consequences of global warming (Pawsey 2). BC Pinots are low in tannins, light-bodied, and paler in colour than their Merlot and cab sav cousins. They typically taste of red fruits, with hints of vanilla and leather (“Pinot Noir”). They pair perfectly with the salmon caught in the Pacific Ocean and in the rivers of British Columbia, with other fish dishes, lighter cheeses, and even vegan food.

When it comes to choosing a BC wine cultivated from a red grape, discriminating omnivores are the lucky ones. They may choose a Merlot, a Cabernet Sauvignon, a Pinot Noir, or any blending of the three to fulfill their quest for the perfect complement for their meal.

Works Cited

“ Cabernet Sauvignon .” My Wine Canada . (n.d.), https://mywinecanada.com/types-of-wine/cabernet-sauvignon-wine. Accessed 31 Jan. 2018.

“ Merlot .”  My Wine Canada . (n.d.), https://mywinecanada.com/types-of-wine/merlot-wine. Accessed 31 Jan. 2018.

Pawsey, Tim. “ Pinot Noir Is the Bad Boy of the BC Wine Scene .” Quench Magazine , 27 Dec. 2017, https://quench.me/magazine/pinot-noir-bad-boy-bc-wine-scene/. Accessed 2 Feb. 2019.

 “ Pinot Noir .” My Wine Canada. (n.d.), https://mywinecanada.com/types-of-wine/pinot-noir-wine. Accessed 31 Jan. 2018.

“ Varietal .” Wikipedia, The Free Encyclopedia , 1 Nov. 2018,  https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Varietal. Accessed 2 Feb. 2019.

Red Wine Grapes of British Columbia

Study Questions

Respond to these questions in writing, in small group discussion, or both.

• What is the thesis of this essay?
• What is an oenophile?
• Do you think “The Red Wine Grapes of British Columbia” is informative? What did you learn from the essay?
• Is the concluding paragraph effective? Why or why not?
• Is the works cited list appropriate for this essay? Why or why not?

Writing Assignment

Write an examples essay of approximately 750 words on one of the following topics: popular video games, designer handbags, basketball shoes, science fiction movies, high-performance sports cars. You may also select your own topic or one recommended by your teacher.

Composition and Literature Copyright © 2019 by James Sexton and Derek Soles is licensed under a Creative Commons Attribution 4.0 International License , except where otherwise noted.

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Want to write a college essay that sets you apart? Three tips to give you a head start

1. Keep it real. It’s normal to want to make a good impression on the school of your choice, but it’s also important to show who you really are. So just be yourself! Compelling stories might not be perfectly linear or have a happy ending, and that’s OK. It’s best to be authentic instead of telling schools what you think they want to hear.

2. Be reflective . Think about how you’ve changed during high school. How have you grown and improved? What makes you feel ready for college, and how do you hope to contribute to the campus community and society at large?

3. Look to the future. Consider your reasons for attending college. What do you hope to gain from your education? What about college excites you the most, and what would you like to do after you graduate? Answering these questions will not only give colleges insight into the kind of student you’ll be, but it will also give you the personal insight you’ll need to choose the school that’s right for you.

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How to Put Examples in an IELTS Essay

Posted by David S. Wills | Feb 12, 2024 | IELTS Tips , Writing | 0

Today, you are going to learn how to put examples in an IELTS essay . Specifically, this will be a task 2 essay because you won’t need examples in a task 1 report or letter.

We will cover a few things here. Firstly, I will explain why you ought to include examples. Then, I’ll talk about picking appropriate examples. Finally, we will look at the language used for giving examples in an essay.

Table of Contents

Why do we need examples, what makes a good example for an ielts essay, can you make up examples, can i use personal examples, what language is used for giving examples, common mistakes.

In an IELTS essay, you might want to include examples as a way of better explaining something. Whether you are giving your opinion or discussing an idea, examples are often a handy way of showing development, which is critical for a good Task Response score.

Let’s say you have to write an essay about animal experimentation . You might want to explain that animal testing cannot be justified, so one of your paragraphs might be structured this way:

Look at sentence #7.

Why did I add this?

Well, I had previously explained my perspective in a clear way, but to make it even easier for the reader to understand (as well as making a more convincing argument), I can add an example.

Examples often illuminate a concept in a clear way. They help people to understand abstract or challenging ideas better. In the above case, I had explained my opinion logically but by giving a concrete idea – something that the reader could imagine – I have made it more likely that they will understand and agree with me.

(You can read the full essay and an explanation here .)

Also, let’s consider what the examiners actually want. Note the highlighted part of this sample question from IDP :

This quite clearly shows that you are meant to provide examples. The band descriptors provided by the British Council also show that it is necessary for a candidate to “support” their ideas in order to get a good score. To get band 8, a candidate’s ideas must be:

relevant, well extended and supported.

A good example in an IELTS essay should be:

• Intelligent
• Carefully placed

Those are the most important facts. Let’s look at each.

• Relevant . Above, I gave an example that illuminated my main point. I wanted to show why animal testing can be flawed, so I created a hypothetical mouse being subjected to testing for diabetes drugs. This perfectly illustrated the point, so it is relevant.
• Realistic . A lot of people make up examples because of course you cannot do research in the middle of the IELTS exam. This is fine but please keep it realistic . For example, you may be asked about climate change. If you said “a recent study shows that 90% of the world will be underwater in 10 years,” then it is not very credible.
• Intelligent . Although your answers for IELTS writing do not need to display any sort of technical expertise, you do need to display some sort of critical thinking ability. Thus, whilst you don’t need to have an in-depth knowledge of history or technology , you should be able to draw upon some reasonable examples or invent one that sounds believable. These should be logically tied to your main idea and fit nicely into your essay.
• Carefully placed . Your example should come at just the right point in your essay. Where is that? Well, it depends on your essay. Each one is different. Typically, you would state a main point, explain it, and then add an example but there are other ways to do this. Just be logical and use an example for a sensible purpose. This will help you get a better score for Coherence and Cohesion .

Here, we can see the two body paragraphs of an essay about reliance on technology .

You can see that both paragraphs include an example but they are included differently. The first does not use the words “For example” or “To illustrate.” It just gives the example subtly. The second uses more formulaic language but it introduces the example in a more interesting place. This is because I wanted to incorporate the example in my explanation rather than illustrate the explanation entirely by following it with an example.

As you can see, there are various ways to do this effectively!

Yes, you can use invented examples but keep in mind that they must be realistic. There are two ways to do this:

• Make up an example that is easily within the realm of possibility. For example, you might cite a study that does not exist but as long as your claims are realistic, it doesn’t matter. No one is going to check.
• State clearly that it is a hypothetical example. Again, you can use my mouse/diabetes example from the above table. I used the word “if” to show that it was an imagined example situation.

Try to avoid saying anything that is obviously fake or unbelievable. This would reduce the credibility of your argument.

You can use personal examples in an IELTS essay, but these tend to be more common in lower-scoring essays. Of course, for these you could easily make up an imaginary brother or friend to illustrate a situation.

It all depends on the situation, of course. If you are asked about a broad societal question, an example such as “my brother thinks…” does not really demonstrate any sort of capacity for serious thinking. Thus, you can do it but it’s not a great idea.

On the other hand, if you are asked about families or other daily or personal topics, you could definitely give your relatives as examples.

There are different ways to introduce an example. The most common one is to say “For example…” and then state the example. Many people think this is “too basic,” but there’s no such thing. As long as you don’t use it repeatedly, you’re fine.

Other phrases to introduce examples include:

• To give an example
• For instance
• To give but one example (=this implies that you are giving one but that there are many other possible examples)
• As an illustration
• To illustrate

It’s also quite possible to just subtly weave an example into the passage without this sort of formulaic language. Let’s take a sample passage:

• There are many everyday items that are used once and then thrown away, adding to the pollution in our seas. For example, plastic bags and soda bottles routinely end up flowing from rivers into the oceans.

This passage used “for example.” We could also have just said:

• There are many everyday items that are used once and then thrown away, adding to the pollution in our seas. Plastic bags and soda bottles routinely end up flowing from rivers into the oceans.

Now I have included an example but without saying “For example…”

Note that I could also use “such as…” This requires slightly different grammar, though:

• There are many everyday items, such as plastic bottles and bags, that are used once and then thrown away, adding to the pollution in our seas.

A final note is that the phrase “For example” can be placed at different points in a sentence:

• For example, plastic bags and soda bottles routinely end up flowing from rivers into the oceans.
• Plastic bags and soda bottles, for example, routinely end up flowing from rivers into the oceans.
• Plastic bags and soda bottles routinely end up flowing from rivers into the oceans, for example.

Let’s now look at a few common mistakes people make when putting examples into their IELTS essays:

• Too many examples . Having one or two examples in an essay is fine but you definitely don’t want to include many more than that. Remember that an example is used to illuminate a point but it should not be used as a shortcut. Learn how to explain an idea and then back it up with an example rather than using examples in lieu of a thorough explanation.
• Irrelevant examples . I quite often see irrelevant examples in IELTS essays when doing my writing correction service . Basically, there is a logical disconnect between the previous statement and the given example.
• Unclear examples . Sometimes people just don’t explain things clearly, so the example given may seem irrelevant or confusing. This is often not because it’s a bad example but rather the example or the previous point had been poorly explained.
• Poor grammar . People sometimes make grammatical mistakes when adding an example. This happens because they do not understand the part of speech used to introduce the example or they forget that the example may have to be a full clause.

About The Author

David S. Wills

David S. Wills is the author of Scientologist! William S. Burroughs and the 'Weird Cult' and the founder/editor of Beatdom literary journal. He lives and works in rural Cambodia and loves to travel. He has worked as an IELTS tutor since 2010, has completed both TEFL and CELTA courses, and has a certificate from Cambridge for Teaching Writing. David has worked in many different countries, and for several years designed a writing course for the University of Worcester. In 2018, he wrote the popular IELTS handbook, Grammar for IELTS Writing and he has since written two other books about IELTS. His other IELTS website is called IELTS Teaching.

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3 Excellent Brown “Joy” Essay Examples

What’s covered:, essay example #1 – latin, essay example #2 – driving.

• Essay Example #3 – Drawing
• Where to Get Your Brown Essays Edited

Brown is one of the most selective schools in the country, which means grades and test scores won’t get you in on their own. You also want to show off your more intangible personal qualities, so that admissions officers get a complete picture of who you are beyond the numbers.

The “joy” prompt, which Brown has had for several years, is a fantastic opportunity to do exactly that, by sharing something about yourself with admissions officers that wouldn’t appear on any resume, but is a fundamental part of who you are. College applications can feel quite dry, so when you get the chance to liven things up with this kind of prompt, make sure you take full advantage of it!

Please note: Looking at examples of real essays students have submitted to colleges can be very beneficial to get inspiration for your essays. You should  never copy or plagiarize from these examples  when writing your own essays. Colleges can tell when an essay isn’t genuine and will not view students favorably if they plagiarized. 

If you want detailed guidance on how to tackle the “joy” prompt, and Brown’s other supplemental essays, check out our Brown essay breakdown !

Brown “Joy” Prompt

The following essays respond to this prompt: 

Brown students care deeply about their work and the world around them. Students find contentment, satisfaction, and meaning in daily interactions and major discoveries. Whether big or small, mundane or spectacular, tell us about something that brings you joy. (200-250 words)

Since this prompt doesn’t fit neatly into one of the classic supplemental essay boxes (like “Why School?”  or  “Why Major?” ), you may not be quite sure where to start. To help you out, we’ve compiled three responses real students wrote to this prompt. You can read the essays below, and get our breakdowns of each one’s strengths and weaknesses.

I remember being a fourth-grade “puella”, discovering the joy of chanting declensions with my classmates. Since then, my passion for Latin and mythology has expanded by reading books like Percy Jackson’s Greek Gods to Homer’s The Odyssey. I’ll never embody a character as well as I played the mythological Psyche in my fifth-grade Latin presentation.

I’ve always compared my Latin homework to my math homework. It’s very methodical, translating each phrase and then trying new ways to create a coherent sentence. Whenever I’d spent a good twenty minutes sorting through the puzzle of words to make a sentence, that moment where it finally made sense was euphoric. 

These translation and mythology skills I’d developed over the years would become essential about halfway through my freshman year Latin class when I was introduced to the revolutionary game of Certamen. Certamen is like Latin jeopardy with questions themed after classical history, mythology, translation, and grammar. A familiar feeling of competition surges through me each time my teammate of three years and I start a game of Certamen. With our handy doorbell buzz button and endless knowledge of Latin derivatives, we currently maintain a three-year Certamen win streak that I intend to keep until I graduate. The light-bulb that goes off in my head whenever I finally grasp the meaning of a Latin passage has become addicting throughout the years, and I hope to continue experiencing that joy at Brown University.

What the Essay Did Well

This essay does a great job of answering the prompt! Brown wants to know about something that brings you joy, and the student shared multiple responses, “chanting declensions with my classmates,” “sorting through the puzzles of words to make a sentence,” and “Certamen.”

While this student shares several things that bring them joy, they all fall under the theme of Latin which reveals the student’s broad interest in the subject. Further, the student does well making their interest relevant to Brown by hinting in the last sentence that this is something they want to continue to experience at Brown University. The reader learns not only about the writer’s interests but also that they’re going to bring this interest in Latin to their time at Brown. It’s always great when the reader can get an idea of what you want to do as a student on campus at their university!

The writer also describes the game of “Certamen” well by showing and not telling. For example, sentences like, “With our handy doorbell buzz button and endless knowledge of Latin derivatives…” and “A familiar feeling of competition surges through me,” paint a picture of the game. The reader understands that the writer loves the game of Certamen just by these descriptions; the student doesn’t have to directly say “I love Certamen.” Showing, rather than telling, makes an essay more immersive and shows off your writing skills. 

What Could Be Improved 

The second paragraph of this essay shares a bit about why the writer likes their Latin homework, but other than being about Latin, this paragraph doesn’t fit in well with the rest of the essay. Latin homework and puzzles aren’t mentioned in either of the other paragraphs, and the transitions between paragraphs could be stronger.

Right now, the writer connects the second paragraph to the third by saying just, “These translation skills.” This transition could be improved by the student writing a stronger transition sentence from the first to the second paragraph. They could say, “In middle school I started getting more homework for Latin, but I didn’t mind because I’ve always compared it to my math homework.” This would emphasize their love for Latin and show that it’s a subject they’ve studied throughout the years. Transition sentences are important so that each paragraph contributes to the essay.

The writer could also improve the essay by focusing more on recent stories and examples of their love for Latin and mythology. They spend the first two paragraphs starting with fourth grade and going through the years until they reach high school in the final paragraph. It’s okay to share an interest or something that’s brought you joy for a long time, but when you mention the distant past, it’s best to keep that part limited. The reader wants to learn more about who you are now and your current interests. The writer could have instead given examples of recent translation projects or recent mythology books they’ve read. 

Sitting behind the steering wheel, with the low hum of my music and the engine as background noise, I breathe in the familiarity of the 5-mile radius I generally commute within. My windows are rolled down and my sunroof is wide open, weather permitting, as the wind threatens to defenestrate my possessions. But I enjoy it immensely. The drive is refreshingly liberating: it feels like I can do anything and go anywhere I desire. As someone who frequently feels overwhelmed by the idea that most of my life is outside my control, a drive will often cure that feeling. The freedom of driving dissipates those worries.

My most frequent destination is Starbucks, not the one closest to my home, but rather the franchise that is a mile or two further. It allows me to enjoy the drive for longer than just a few minutes, extending an otherwise hasty experience to offer more time in reflection. Upon arriving and picking up my mobile order, I return to my car and savor my coffee, all while appreciating the music and experience. The coffee is an impeccable companion, both in its rich taste and the endeavor of acquiring it.

During my most stressful weeks, I can rely on my trips to get coffee as an outlet to forget my assignments and worries. The solitude of the activity is a rare opportunity for reflection: a joyful adventure all around.

It isn’t easy to make a mundane topic like driving to get coffee interesting, but this student was able to do just that! They did a great job of beautifully describing an outing that gives them joy. Specifically, the writer uses imagery well in sentences like: “My windows are rolled down and my sunroof is wide open, weather permitting, as the wind threatens to defenestrate my possessions.” It’s easy for the reader to imagine the possessions about to fly away!

Other strong description words help with this, as well. The writer describes the “rich taste” of the coffee and the “engine of background noise.” By painting a picture of some of the five senses, the writer is able to bring the reader into the moment and create a compelling story. 

The writer does a great job of sharing why the act of driving to Starbucks brings them joy. These details help this essay go beyond just a pretty story by helping the reader to learn about the student.

From moments like, “As someone who frequently feels overwhelmed by the idea that most of my life is outside my control, a drive will often cure that feeling,” readers learn one of the reasons why driving brings the student joy. Additionally, readers learn that this is a joyous moment for the writer because it serves as a time for reflection. These small details are great to include because they show why the reader is joyful!

While the writer does a good job of inserting details that explain why they love driving to Starbucks, the reader still only learns a limited amount about the writer. The only interests shared are that the reader enjoys driving and Starbucks.

Supplemental essays like this are a great chance for students to share interests that they don’t have a chance to include anywhere else on their application. For example, the writer could have written about their love for photography and how taking photographs of dogs brings them joy. That would teach the reader more about who the writer is as a person and what they would bring to Brown University.

Some sentences do a great job of sharing details and painting a picture of the scene; however, there are a few places where the author could provide even further details. For example, what kind of coffee are they drinking? Is it a grande iced white mocha, or a venti java chip frappuccino ? What music are they listening to on the radio? Sharing these kinds of details would allow the reader to learn more about the author and their interests, which is great for a topic like this, where the goal is for the student to share an interest they have not mentioned in their application.

Essay Example #3 – Drawing  

My dusty sketchbook must dread the moments I decide to take it off my desk. Every time I pick it up to use, it results in piles of graphite and eraser shavings everywhere in my room. I’ve gone through so many boxes of pencils, I think Ticonderoga must know me by now. The sketchbook of mine has seen better days – days where it looked pristine and without blemish. 

I love to draw. Yes the final result provides fantastic amusement to my eyes, but the process of the entire drawing allures me to this hobby. The second the fine point of my pencil hits the devoid paper, wonders only comparable to music begin to formulate. Each stroke of the pencil leaves a mark surpassing in magnificence to the one before. The freedom to pour out my thoughts into a sheet of paper astonishes me and provides me with a feeling of bliss and comfort.

Each sheet of paper is brimmed with portraits; my loved ones, friends, even strangers take up the space in my book, but for good reason. After I finish each drawing, I simply give it to them. I do cherish the journey I take with my art, but the smile on their faces when I give them my art is nothing less than beautiful. Even the most majestic of artists wouldn’t be able to capture the raw nature of that smile. For that is where I am given the most joy, in the smiles of others.

What The Essay Did Well

This essay does a superb job of using particularly sophisticated and vibrant language! The word choice is memorable and striking, which both keeps readers engaged and demonstrates the author’s broad vocabulary. Vivid images like the dusty sketchbook and the eraser shavings, or the notebook brimming with drawings, draw us in, before phrases like “wonders only comparable to music” and “the raw nature of that smile” drive home the applicant’s deep personal connection to their topic. 

The author’s confident, unique voice is another strength here. From the playful tone in the beginning of the essay, to the impassioned description of the student’s process, and finally, the reflection on the humanity of drawing, we get to know the author’s personality. They come across as funny, thoughtful, and generous, thanks to the details they include and the tone they use when presenting them.

Most importantly, the command of language and the personal tone come together to convey the author’s true passion for drawing, and the joy they find in that activity. Ultimately, any college essay needs to address the prompt, which this one does clearly and comprehensively. The mastery of language and vibrant personality are what take the essay from good to great, but the real key to this essay’s success is its connection to the prompt, as without that, Brown admissions officers wouldn’t get the information they’re looking for. 

What Could Be Improved

With an essay this strong, it’s tough to imagine what could make it better. At this point, changes would mainly make the essay different, not necessarily better or worse. However, considering alternative approaches can still be productive, since everyone has a slightly different way of telling their story.

For example, the student could have spent a little more time explaining their decision to give their portraits away. Right now, the essay ends with something of a plot twist, as we learn that what brings the student the most joy is in fact not the act of drawing, but the smiles of others after receiving their work. 

This “cliffhanger” ending is striking and memorable, but we also miss out on learning more about the student’s personality. Drawing is usually a solitary pursuit, but for this student, it’s clearly a more social activity, and they could have spent a bit more time exploring this aspect of their art to further set themselves apart from other applicants.

Again, though, this suggestion is more likely to subtly shift the tone of the essay than make it drastically better. Calling a college essay “done” can be stressful, but this essay is a good reminder that, at a certain point, your energy is going to be more productively spent on other aspects of your application.

Where to Get Your  Brown  Essays Edited

Do you want feedback on your Brown essays? After rereading your essays countless times, it can be difficult to evaluate your writing objectively. That’s why we created our free  Peer Essay Review tool , where you can get a free review of your essay from another student. You can also improve your own writing skills by reviewing other students’ essays. 

If you want a college admissions expert to review your essay, advisors on CollegeVine have helped students refine their writing and submit successful applications to top schools.  Find the right advisor for you  to improve your chances of getting into your dream school!

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Crafting the Perfect College Essay: Tips from Admissions Experts

Writing a college application essay can be one of the most challenging parts of the college admissions process. 

However, with the right approach and tips from our admissions consultants, you’ll have no problem crafting an essay that stands out. In this guide, we’ll walk you through the process, explaining everything you need to know about writing your college essay. We’ll also share some college essay tips, formats, examples, and common pitfalls to avoid.

Complimentary Initial Consultation

Fill out this form to book your complimentary initial consultation., how to start a college essay, understand the prompt.

Before you start writing, make sure you thoroughly understand the essay prompt. You might find it helpful to break it down into smaller sections to better understand what the admissions committee is asking. 

Look for keywords in the prompt that highlight the main focus, such as “describe,” “explain,” or “reflect.” 

Understanding the prompt’s objective is important. Work out whether it’s asking you to share a personal story, explain your motivations, or discuss your goals. If any part of the prompt is unclear, seek clarification from teachers, parents, or peers to avoid misinterpreting it.

Brainstorm ideas

Consider free writing. It can help uncover potential topics by allowing you to write freely about different experiences and ideas without worrying about structure or grammar. 

Creating a mind map with the prompt at the center and branches for different ideas and experiences may also be helpful. Similarly, making lists of significant life events, accomplishments, challenges, and influences can generate ideas. 

Ask yourself reflection questions like “What am I most proud of?”, “What challenges have I overcome?”, and “What experiences have shaped my values and goals?” to find meaningful topics.

Spend some time brainstorming potential topics. Think about experiences, achievements, or personal stories that highlight your character and strengths. 

Choose a unique angle

Select a topic that is personal and unique to you. Admissions officers read thousands of essays, so finding a distinctive angle will make your essay stand out. 

Write about something meaningful to you rather than what you think the admissions committee wants to hear. 

Choose a topic that demonstrates personal growth, resilience, or a significant change in perspective. Highlight your core values and beliefs through a story that reflects them.

Create an outline

Start with an introduction that includes a hook to grab the reader’s attention , introduces the main theme or story, and provides a brief overview of what the essay will cover. 

Develop your main points with clear, concise paragraphs in the body of the essay, each focusing on a single idea and providing evidence or examples to support it. 

Summarize your main points in the conclusion. Restate your thesis in a new light, and end with a strong closing statement.

Organize your thoughts by creating an outline. This helps you structure your essay logically and ensures you cover all necessary points. 

Set the tone

The introduction sets the tone for the rest of your essay. Make sure it reflects your voice and personality. Whether your tone is serious, humorous, reflective, or passionate, it should be consistent throughout the essay.

End your introduction with a roadmap that outlines the main points you’ll cover in your essay. This helps the reader follow your narrative and understand the structure of your essay.

College essay format

As mentioned above, the introduction is your first chance to make an impression. You should start with a captivating hook to grab the reader’s attention. It could be an anecdote, a thought-provoking question, a striking statement, or vivid imagery. 

After the introduction comes the body of your essay. You should develop your main points with specific examples and clear, concise paragraphs. 

The conclusion summarizes your main points, restates your thesis in a new way, and ends with a strong closing statement.

Formatting tips

• Font and Spacing: Use a readable font, such as Times New Roman or Arial, in size 12. Double-space your essay.
• Margins: Set margins to one inch on all sides.
• Title: Include a title if not specified otherwise. It should reflect the main theme of your essay.
• Length: Adhere to the word limit specified by the college, typically between 250 and 650 words.
• Consistency: Ensure consistent formatting throughout the essay, including font size, spacing, and paragraph structure.
• Proofreading: Carefully proofread for spelling, grammar, or punctuation errors. Consider an external review.
• Adherence to Guidelines: Follow any specific formatting guidelines provided by the college, such as submission format and file naming conventions.

7 college application essay tips

Be authentic.

Your essay should reflect your true self. Admissions officers can tell when you’re not being genuine, so write about what matters to you, not what you think they want to hear. Authenticity can make your essay stand out because it showcases your voice and perspective.

Show, don’t tell

Use descriptive language and specific examples to illustrate your points. Instead of stating that you’re determined, describe a situation where your determination helped you achieve a goal. This makes your essay more engaging and memorable.

Stay focused

Stick to the topic and avoid drifting off. Each sentence should contribute to your main theme or story. Keeping your essay focused ensures that your message is clear and concise, making a stronger impression on the reader. 

While it’s important to provide enough detail to support your points, avoid being too wordy. Concise writing is more powerful and keeps the reader engaged.

Carefully review your essay, checking for spelling, grammar, and punctuation errors. A well-polished essay shows attention to detail and respect for the admissions process. Consider asking a teacher, parent, or friend to read it over and provide feedback.

Follow instructions

Adhere to the word limit and any formatting guidelines provided by the college. 

Following the instructions shows you can pay attention to details and follow directions, both of which are important skills for college students.

Seek feedback

Get feedback from teachers, parents, and friends, but make sure the final essay reflects your voice. Constructive criticism can help you improve your essay, but it’s important that it remains your own work.

Practice good time management

Start early to give yourself plenty of time to brainstorm, write, and revise your essay. Rushed writing often lacks depth and clarity, so taking your time can significantly improve the quality of your essay.

Types of college essays

Personal statement.

The personal statement is a general essay that provides an opportunity for you to share your story, experiences, and personal qualities. It often addresses broad prompts that ask you to reflect on significant life experiences or describe your goals and motivations. Look at it as your chance to give the admissions committee a deeper understanding of who you are beyond your grades and test scores.

Supplemental essays

Supplemental essays are additional essays that many colleges require in addition to the personal statement. These essays often ask specific questions related to the college’s values, culture, or specific programs. Examples of common supplemental essay prompts include:

• “Why do you want to attend this college?”
• “Describe an extracurricular activity or work experience.”
• “Discuss an issue of personal, local, national, or international concern and its importance to you.”

Scholarship essays

Scholarship essays are written as part of an application for a scholarship. These essays typically focus on your academic achievements, leadership experiences, community involvement, and financial need. Scholarship essays often ask you to explain why you deserve the scholarship and how it will help you achieve your educational and career goals.

Common App essays

The Common Application (Common App) essay is a personal statement required by colleges that use the Common Application platform. The Common App provides several prompts each year, allowing students to choose the one that best fits their story. The prompts are designed to be broad and open-ended, giving students the flexibility to write about a wide range of topics.

Coalition application essays

Similar to the Common App, the Coalition Application also requires a personal statement. The Coalition Application offers different essay prompts, but they serve the same purpose: to allow students to share their personal stories and reflections.

University-specific essays

Some universities require essays that are specific to their institution. These essays can vary widely in topic and format. They might ask you to discuss how you would contribute to the university community, your interest in a particular program, or your thoughts on a current event or societal issue.

Diversity essays

Diversity essays ask you to discuss your background, experiences, and perspectives on diversity. These essays are an opportunity to reflect on how your unique experiences have shaped your worldview and how you will contribute to a diverse and inclusive campus environment.

Career goals essays

Career goals essays require you to outline your professional aspirations and how your chosen college and program will help you achieve them. These essays are common for applications to business schools, engineering programs, and other professional degree programs.

Creative essays

Some colleges may ask for creative essays that allow you to showcase your creativity and originality. These essays might include prompts that ask you to write a short story, imagine a hypothetical scenario, or describe a unique perspective.

Analytical essays

Analytical essays require you to analyze a text, event, or issue. These essays test your critical thinking and writing skills by asking you to provide a well-reasoned analysis supported by evidence. They are more common in applications to humanities and social sciences programs.

“Overcoming Adversity” essays

Essays on overcoming adversity ask you to describe a significant challenge or obstacle you have faced and how you dealt with it. These essays highlight your resilience, problem-solving abilities, and personal growth.

Winning college essay examples

Reading examples of successful college essays can provide inspiration and guidance. Look for essays that have a strong voice, clear structure, and compelling content. 

Analyze what makes these essays effective and try to incorporate similar elements into your own writing.

Do all colleges require essays?

Not all colleges require essays as part of their application process. Some schools, particularly those with open admissions policies, may not require an essay. However, most selective colleges do require at least one essay, and many have additional supplemental essays.

Things to avoid when writing a college essay

There are things you should include in your college essay, but there are also some things you should try to avoid if you want to give the best impression.

Avoid overused topics and phrases. Be original and authentic in your writing.

Controversial topics

Steer clear of highly controversial topics unless you can address them thoughtfully and respectfully.

Focus on positive experiences and growth rather than negative events.

Overly complex language

Use clear, straightforward language. Avoid using complex words, phrases, and ideas just to impress the reader.

Don’t repeat information already covered in other parts of your application.

Additional tips

In this final section of our guide on how to write a college application essay, we’ll share some quick and easy tips.

• Start early: Give yourself plenty of time to brainstorm, write, and revise your essay.
• Seek feedback: Get feedback from teachers, parents, and friends, but make sure the final essay reflects your voice.
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• Be honest: Write truthfully about your experiences and aspirations.

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• Knowledge Base
• How to write an essay outline | Guidelines & examples

How to Write an Essay Outline | Guidelines & Examples

Published on August 14, 2020 by Jack Caulfield . Revised on July 23, 2023.

An essay outline is a way of planning the structure of your essay before you start writing. It involves writing quick summary sentences or phrases for every point you will cover in each paragraph , giving you a picture of how your argument will unfold.

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Table of contents

Organizing your material, presentation of the outline, examples of essay outlines, other interesting articles, frequently asked questions about essay outlines.

At the stage where you’re writing an essay outline, your ideas are probably still not fully formed. You should know your topic  and have already done some preliminary research to find relevant sources , but now you need to shape your ideas into a structured argument.

Creating categories

Look over any information, quotes and ideas you’ve noted down from your research and consider the central point you want to make in the essay—this will be the basis of your thesis statement . Once you have an idea of your overall argument, you can begin to organize your material in a way that serves that argument.

Try to arrange your material into categories related to different aspects of your argument. If you’re writing about a literary text, you might group your ideas into themes; in a history essay, it might be several key trends or turning points from the period you’re discussing.

Three main themes or subjects is a common structure for essays. Depending on the length of the essay, you could split the themes into three body paragraphs, or three longer sections with several paragraphs covering each theme.

As you create the outline, look critically at your categories and points: Are any of them irrelevant or redundant? Make sure every topic you cover is clearly related to your thesis statement.

Order of information

When you have your material organized into several categories, consider what order they should appear in.

Your essay will always begin and end with an introduction and conclusion , but the organization of the body is up to you.

Consider these questions to order your material:

• Is there an obvious starting point for your argument?
• Is there one subject that provides an easy transition into another?
• Do some points need to be set up by discussing other points first?

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Within each paragraph, you’ll discuss a single idea related to your overall topic or argument, using several points of evidence or analysis to do so.

In your outline, you present these points as a few short numbered sentences or phrases.They can be split into sub-points when more detail is needed.

The template below shows how you might structure an outline for a five-paragraph essay.

• Thesis statement
• First piece of evidence
• Second piece of evidence
• Summary/synthesis
• Importance of topic
• Strong closing statement

You can choose whether to write your outline in full sentences or short phrases. Be consistent in your choice; don’t randomly write some points as full sentences and others as short phrases.

Examples of outlines for different types of essays are presented below: an argumentative, expository, and literary analysis essay.

Argumentative essay outline

This outline is for a short argumentative essay evaluating the internet’s impact on education. It uses short phrases to summarize each point.

Its body is split into three paragraphs, each presenting arguments about a different aspect of the internet’s effects on education.

• Importance of the internet
• Concerns about internet use
• Thesis statement: Internet use a net positive
• Data exploring this effect
• Analysis indicating it is overstated
• Students’ reading levels over time
• Why this data is questionable
• Video media
• Interactive media
• Speed and simplicity of online research
• Questions about reliability (transitioning into next topic)
• Evidence indicating its ubiquity
• Claims that it discourages engagement with academic writing
• Evidence that Wikipedia warns students not to cite it
• Argument that it introduces students to citation
• Summary of key points
• Value of digital education for students
• Need for optimism to embrace advantages of the internet

Expository essay outline

This is the outline for an expository essay describing how the invention of the printing press affected life and politics in Europe.

The paragraphs are still summarized in short phrases here, but individual points are described with full sentences.

• Claim that the printing press marks the end of the Middle Ages.
• Provide background on the low levels of literacy before the printing press.
• Present the thesis statement: The invention of the printing press increased circulation of information in Europe, paving the way for the Reformation.
• Discuss the very high levels of illiteracy in medieval Europe.
• Describe how literacy and thus knowledge and education were mainly the domain of religious and political elites.
• Indicate how this discouraged political and religious change.
• Describe the invention of the printing press in 1440 by Johannes Gutenberg.
• Show the implications of the new technology for book production.
• Describe the rapid spread of the technology and the printing of the Gutenberg Bible.
• Link to the Reformation.
• Discuss the trend for translating the Bible into vernacular languages during the years following the printing press’s invention.
• Describe Luther’s own translation of the Bible during the Reformation.
• Sketch out the large-scale effects the Reformation would have on religion and politics.
• Summarize the history described.
• Stress the significance of the printing press to the events of this period.

Literary analysis essay outline

The literary analysis essay outlined below discusses the role of theater in Jane Austen’s novel Mansfield Park .

The body of the essay is divided into three different themes, each of which is explored through examples from the book.

• Describe the theatricality of Austen’s works
• Outline the role theater plays in Mansfield Park
• Introduce the research question : How does Austen use theater to express the characters’ morality in Mansfield Park ?
• Discuss Austen’s depiction of the performance at the end of the first volume
• Discuss how Sir Bertram reacts to the acting scheme
• Introduce Austen’s use of stage direction–like details during dialogue
• Explore how these are deployed to show the characters’ self-absorption
• Discuss Austen’s description of Maria and Julia’s relationship as polite but affectionless
• Compare Mrs. Norris’s self-conceit as charitable despite her idleness
• Summarize the three themes: The acting scheme, stage directions, and the performance of morals
• Answer the research question
• Indicate areas for further study

If you want to know more about AI tools , college essays , or fallacies make sure to check out some of our other articles with explanations and examples or go directly to our tools!

• Ad hominem fallacy
• Post hoc fallacy
• Appeal to authority fallacy
• False cause fallacy
• Sunk cost fallacy

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

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

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

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

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

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Caulfield, J. (2023, July 23). How to Write an Essay Outline | Guidelines & Examples. Scribbr. Retrieved August 12, 2024, from https://www.scribbr.com/academic-essay/essay-outline/

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How to Write a Hook- Steps With Examples

A hook in an essay or any piece of writing is like a fishing hook—it’s designed to grab your readers’ attention and draw them into the rest of your content. A well-crafted hook not only captures interest but also encourages readers to continue exploring what you have to say. If you’re unsure how to  write a hook that’s engaging, this article will provide you with effective tips for writing compelling openings, ensuring your engagement remains high.

What is a Hook?

A hook in writing is essentially a compelling sentence or paragraph that grabs the reader's attention from the very beginning. It sets the tone for the piece and entices readers to continue exploring what you have to say. To craft an effective hook, it needs to be engaging, informative, and suitable for the intended audience. This means it should capture interest, convey relevant information, and be appropriate for the reader's level and context. By focusing on relevance, audience, and cohesion, you can create a strong hook that not only draws readers in but also aligns with the main thesis and purpose of your writing.

6 Types of Essay Hooks

There are various types of hooks, each serving a different purpose and engaging the reader in unique ways.

Question Hook:

This type involves asking the reader a question that sparks their curiosity or gets them thinking.

For example:

"Have you ever watched the high-flying, jump shooting, slam dunking, ankle breaking players that play in the NBA?"

This question engages the reader by prompting them to visualize and think about the excitement of watching NBA players, setting the stage for a discussion about the thrill of the game.

Quotation Hook:

A quotation hook uses a relevant quote from a credible source to draw in the reader.

For instance:

"Some people want it to happen, some wish it would happen, others make it happen,” said Michael Jordan.

This quote from a famous athlete underscores the theme of determination and hard work, immediately connecting the reader to the topic of achieving success through effort.

Statistic Hook:

This type employs surprising or impressive statistics to catch the reader's eye.

"Just 0.00545 percent of the 550,000 boys playing high school basketball each year in the United States become a first-round draft pick."

This statistic highlights the incredibly slim chances of making it to the NBA, intriguing the reader with the stark reality and setting up a deeper exploration of what it takes to succeed in professional sports.

Anecdotal Hook:

An anecdotal hook uses a short story to illustrate a point and connect with the reader on a personal level.

"When I was in high school, I remember playing in an AAU basketball league and seeing a boy who practiced relentlessly every morning. Years later, he was drafted by the Philadelphia 76ers."

This story captivates the reader by providing a relatable and tangible example of dedication leading to success, making the topic more engaging and memorable.

Common Misconception Hook:

This type addresses a common misconception to grab the reader’s attention by challenging their existing beliefs.

"Many people believe that all professional athletes were naturally talented from a young age, but the truth is, most of them had to work incredibly hard to get where they are."

This hook piques the reader's interest by presenting surprising information that contradicts what they might think.

Rhetorical Statement Hook:

A rhetorical statement hook uses a bold statement or assertion to provoke thought or agreement.

"There's no shortcut to success in any field, including sports."

This kind of hook immediately sets a strong tone and encourages the reader to think about and agree with the statement, drawing them further into the essay.

How to Write a Hook [3 Steps with Examples]

Imagine yourself reading an article or an essay. Have you ever noticed that the first 2-3 lines set your entire mood? Either it looks interesting, or you might want to skip it. The same is true when someone reads your essay. This is why learning how to write a hook statement for an essay is crucial, and in this guide, I'll be sharing my process to help you write effective hook statements on your own.

I use a few simple steps for writing hook statements that help me craft an effective hook to engage readers and compel them to read further. Along with these steps, I also rely on writing tools, specifically WPS Office , which helps me significantly in writing a good hook. So, let's have a look at the process of learning how to write a hook for your essay, with a few examples.

1.Create an outline

First and foremost, you need to create an outline for your essay. This means your hook needs to be based on the information you plan to communicate through your essay. It's essential to lay the groundwork. Creating an outline helps you organize your thoughts and ensures your hook aligns perfectly with the rest of your essay.

Brainstorming:

To begin with your outline, start by brainstorming, where you can write down all the points you believe you can include in your essay. I usually carry out this step in WPS Writer, where I can type down all the important points I want to include in my essay. Additionally, if I find a few points on the internet, I can simply paste them into my WPS Writer document.

For example, let's say you're writing an essay about the impact of social media on mental health. Your main points might include:

The rise of social media usage

Positive effects on connectivity and community building

Negative impacts on self-esteem and anxiety

Strategies for healthy social media consumption

To further assist me in this process, I use WPS AI to help brainstorm ideas. A fresh perspective is always welcome, and when you're short on ideas, these suggestions can really enhance your essay.

Identify the Angle:

Once we have the main points, it's time to decide on the specific perspective or argument you want to present. This is where you'll start to shape your essay's unique voice. For instance, if your topic is social media, you might choose to focus on its double-edged nature, arguing that while it offers unprecedented connectivity, it also poses significant risks to mental well-being if not used mindfully.

Sketch the Structure:

With your main points and angle in mind, outline the basic structure of your essay. This doesn't need to be elaborate – a simple roadmap will do.

Your structure might look something like this:

Introduction (including your hook)

Brief history of social media's rise

Positive impacts on connectivity

Negative effects on mental health

Strategies for balanced use

Having this structure in place will help you craft a hook that seamlessly leads into the rest of your essay.

WPS AI can also assist in creating an outline. With a simple prompt, you can mention the details of your essay, and it will help you organize your main points and structure effectively.

2.Develop a Thesis

With your outline ready, it's time to develop your thesis statement. This is the core argument of your essay, and your hook should pave the way for it.

Be Clear and Specific:

Your thesis statement should clearly articulate your stance on the topic. Avoid ambiguous or uncertain statements. Focus on writing a precise and debatable assertion that provides a solid foundation for your argument.

For our social media essay, a strong thesis might be:

"While social media platforms have revolutionized communication and community-building, their unchecked use can significantly impact mental health, necessitating a balanced approach to digital engagement."

Ensure Relevance:

Make sure your thesis connects directly with the hook you plan to write. Your hook should intrigue readers about the argument you're going to make.

Keep it Focused:

Resist the temptation to cover everything in your thesis. A focused thesis is easier to argue effectively and helps keep your essay on track.

3.Write your Hook

Now for the exciting part – crafting your hook! Remember, the goal is to captivate your reader from the very first sentence. Let's look at some examples of different hook types we discussed earlier and break down why they work.

Example 1: The Question Hook

"Have you ever caught yourself mindlessly scrolling through your social media feed, only to look up and realize hours have passed?"

This hook works because it:

Directly engages the reader by asking a question

Relates to a common experience many readers can identify with

Introduces the topic of social media usage subtly

By posing this question, you're inviting readers to reflect on their own experiences, creating an immediate connection to your topic.

Example 2: The Statistic Hook

"In 2023, the average person spent 2 hours and 31 minutes per day on social media platforms – that's over 38 days a year scrolling, liking, and sharing."

This hook is effective because it:

Presents a surprising or shocking statistic

Immediately quantifies the impact of social media on our lives

Sets the stage for a discussion on the significance of social media use

Statistics like this grab attention by putting abstract concepts into concrete, relatable terms that can surprise or even shock your readers.

Example 3: The Anecdote Hook

"As I watched my teenage daughter burst into tears over a single Instagram post, I realized social media was no longer just a fun pastime – it had become a powerful force shaping her self-image and mental health."

This hook works well because it:

Tells a brief, relatable story

Evokes emotion and empathy

Introduces the theme of social media's impact on mental health through a personal lens

Personal stories can be powerful hooks, drawing readers in with emotional resonance and real-world relevance.

Example 4: The Quote Hook

"'We are creating and encouraging a culture of distraction where we are increasingly disconnected from the people and events around us,' warns technology ethicist Tristan Harris."

This hook is powerful because it:

Uses an expert's words to lend authority to your topic

Introduces a critical perspective on social media

Sets up a discussion on the broader implications of our digital habits

Quotes from experts can lend credibility to your essay right from the start, setting the tone for a well-researched discussion.

When writing your hook, consider your audience and the tone of your essay. Choose a hook style that aligns with your topic and engages your readers effectively. Don't be afraid to write several versions and ask for feedback – sometimes the perfect hook takes a few tries to get right.

And if you're still having trouble writing a perfect hook for your essay, you can try using WPS AI features like Improve Writing to craft more effective hooks. WPS AI will help ensure your hook reads well and communicates your message clearly to readers.

Bonus Tips: How to Polish your Hook with WPS AI

WPS Office is an excellent tool for anyone looking to enhance their writing. It's particularly useful as a writing companion, helping you refine your sentences, choose the right words, and correct errors. If you're struggling with writer's block, especially when trying to craft an engaging hook for your article, WPS Office can assist you in several ways.

Invoke the AI Writing Assistant:

This feature offers tailored suggestions for opening sentences or paragraphs that are designed to grab attention. It can help generate various types of hooks, such as intriguing questions, startling facts, or impactful quotes. By analyzing your topic and audience, the AI Writing Assistant provides options that resonate well, making it easier to start with a strong, engaging hook.

Request Feedback from the AI Chatbot:

The AI Chatbot reviews your initial draft and provides targeted feedback on your hook. It evaluates the effectiveness of your opening lines, suggesting ways to enhance their impact or refine your approach. Whether your hook needs more clarity, engagement, or relevance, the chatbot’s feedback helps you make necessary adjustments to ensure it captures and retains your readers' interest.

FAQs about Writing a Hook

1. why is it important to have a good essay hook.

A well-crafted essay hook is essential as it captures the reader's attention and motivates them to continue reading. Without a captivating hook, readers may lose interest and discontinue reading. An engaging hook ensures that the audience remains invested, thereby enhancing the likelihood of effectively conveying the essay's message.

2. What's the difference between a hook and a thesis?

A hook is a statement that captures the reader's attention and is positioned at the beginning of the introduction. A thesis explains the main point of the essay, paper, or other writing. Typically, a hook appears as the attention-grabbing opener, followed by additional sentences that connect it to the thesis, which presents the primary argument or premise of the writing.

3. How long is a hook?

A hook is typically one to two sentences long and appears at the beginning of the introduction. It should be brief and engaging to quickly capture the reader's attention and encourage them to continue reading.

Grab Your Audience Attention With The Help of WPS Office

As a writer, I often face challenges in writing something clever enough to grab readers' attention. That’s why I rely on WPS Office to help me on how to write a hook and its suite of tools to assist with my writing and content sharing. WPS Office offers a wealth of amazing tools and services that benefit everyone who uses them. I highly recommend downloading WPS Office to experience its powerful features for yourself.

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