| Narrative Essay |
To tell a story or recount an experience |
Personal perspective, chronological order, descriptive |
Personal anecdotes, memoirs |
- A Life-Changing Encounter: Describe a chance meeting or encounter that significantly impacted your life. Explore how this encounter shaped your beliefs, perspectives, or future decisions.
- The Journey to Overcoming Fear: Narrate a personal journey where you confronted and conquered a fear or phobia. Share the emotions, challenges, and eventual triumphs you experienced along the way.
- A Moment of Transformation: Reflect on a specific moment or event that marked a turning point in your life. Discuss how this event altered your path, mindset, or relationships.
- An Unforgettable Adventure: Recount an adventurous experience or trip that left a lasting impression on you. Dive into the details of the adventure, including the exhilaration, challenges, and lessons learned.
- A Lesson from Failure: Share a story of failure or setback and the valuable lessons it taught you. Reflect on how you responded to the failure, what you learned from it, and how it influenced your future endeavors.
- The Power of Resilience: Explore a time when you faced adversity or hardship and demonstrated resilience. Discuss the strategies you employed to overcome obstacles and emerge stronger from the experience.
- A Family Tradition or Ritual: Describe a meaningful family tradition, ritual, or celebration that holds significance in your life. Reflect on its origins, importance, and the memories associated with it.
- An Unexpected Act of Kindness: Narrate an experience where you either received or extended an unexpected act of kindness. Reflect on the impact it had on you and how it reshaped your perspective on humanity.
- Navigating Cultural Identity: Share a narrative that delves into your journey of understanding and embracing your cultural identity. Discuss the challenges, discoveries, and moments of pride along the way.
- The Evolution of a Friendship: Explore the dynamics of a significant friendship over time. Narrate the milestones, challenges, and moments of growth that shaped your bond with a close friend.
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| Descriptive Essay |
To create a vivid picture |
Detailed sensory descriptions, vivid language, imagery |
Descriptions of a place, person, object |
- A Life-Changing Encounter: Describe a chance meeting or encounter that significantly impacted your life. Explore how this encounter shaped your beliefs, perspectives, or future decisions.
- The Journey to Overcoming Fear: Narrate a personal journey where you confronted and conquered a fear or phobia. Share the emotions, challenges, and eventual triumphs you experienced along the way.
- A Moment of Transformation: Reflect on a specific moment or event that marked a turning point in your life. Discuss how this event altered your path, mindset, or relationships.
- An Unforgettable Adventure: Recount an adventurous experience or trip that left a lasting impression on you. Dive into the details of the adventure, including the exhilaration, challenges, and lessons learned.
- A Lesson from Failure: Share a story of failure or setback and the valuable lessons it taught you. Reflect on how you responded to the failure, what you learned from it, and how it influenced your future endeavors.
- The Power of Resilience: Explore a time when you faced adversity or hardship and demonstrated resilience. Discuss the strategies you employed to overcome obstacles and emerge stronger from the experience.
- A Family Tradition or Ritual: Describe a meaningful family tradition, ritual, or celebration that holds significance in your life. Reflect on its origins, importance, and the memories associated with it.
- An Unexpected Act of Kindness: Narrate an experience where you either received or extended an unexpected act of kindness. Reflect on the impact it had on you and how it reshaped your perspective on humanity.
- Navigating Cultural Identity: Share a narrative that delves into your journey of understanding and embracing your cultural identity. Discuss the challenges, discoveries, and moments of pride along the way.
- The Evolution of a Friendship: Explore the dynamics of a significant friendship over time. Narrate the milestones, challenges, and moments of growth that shaped your bond with a close friend.
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| Expository Essay |
To present information or explain a topic |
Clear and concise, factual, organized structure |
Textbook articles, how-to guides. For research question ideas see our free research question generator. |
- The Impact of Technology on Communication: Explore how advancements in technology, such as smartphones and social media platforms, have revolutionized the way people communicate. Analyze the benefits and drawbacks of digital communication and its implications for interpersonal relationships and society as a whole.
- The Importance of Financial Literacy: Examine the significance of financial literacy education in schools and society. Discuss the key concepts and skills essential for managing personal finances effectively, such as budgeting, saving, investing, and avoiding debt.
- Understanding Climate Change: Provide an overview of the science behind climate change, including the causes, effects, and potential solutions. Discuss the role of human activities, such as carbon emissions and deforestation, in driving climate change, as well as the global efforts to mitigate its impacts.
- The Evolution of Democracy: Trace the historical development of democracy from ancient civilizations to modern nation-states. Explore different forms of democratic governance, such as direct democracy, representative democracy, and constitutional democracy, and their implications for political participation and governance.
- The Impact of Social Media on Mental Health: Investigate the relationship between social media usage and mental health outcomes, such as anxiety, depression, and self-esteem. Examine the factors contributing to the negative effects of social media, as well as strategies for promoting digital well-being and resilience.
- The Science of Vaccines: Explain the science behind vaccines, including how they work, how they are developed, and their role in preventing infectious diseases. Address common misconceptions and concerns about vaccines, as well as the importance of vaccination for public health.
- Exploring Cultural Diversity: Discuss the importance of cultural diversity in fostering social cohesion and understanding. Examine the benefits of multiculturalism, such as cultural exchange, creativity, and innovation, as well as the challenges and opportunities associated with managing diversity in diverse societies.
- The Role of Artificial Intelligence in Society: Analyze the potential applications and implications of artificial intelligence (AI) technology in various sectors, such as healthcare, transportation, and education. Discuss the ethical considerations and policy implications of AI development and deployment.
- Understanding Economic Inequality: Examine the causes and consequences of economic inequality, both within and between countries. Discuss the factors contributing to income and wealth disparities, such as globalization, technological change, and government policies, as well as the potential strategies for reducing inequality.
- The Psychology of Decision-Making: Explore the cognitive and behavioral factors that influence decision-making processes, such as heuristics, biases, and social influences. Discuss how understanding these psychological mechanisms can help individuals make better decisions in their personal and professional lives.
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| Argumentative Essay |
To present an argument and persuade |
Clear thesis statement, evidence-based, logical reasoning. Read more: The Difference Between an Argumentative Essay and a Persuasive Essay |
Debates on social issues, persuasive editorials |
- The Importance of Comprehensive Sex Education: Argue for the implementation of comprehensive sex education programs in schools. Present evidence supporting the effectiveness of comprehensive sex education in promoting healthy relationships, reducing rates of sexually transmitted infections (STIs), and preventing unintended pregnancies.
- The Case for Renewable Energy: Advocate for the transition to renewable energy sources, such as solar, wind, and hydroelectric power, to mitigate climate change and reduce dependence on fossil fuels. Present arguments for the environmental, economic, and social benefits of renewable energy technologies.
- The Ethics of Animal Testing: Debate the ethical considerations surrounding animal testing in scientific research and medical experimentation. Discuss the moral implications of using animals for testing purposes and explore alternative methods that could replace or reduce the use of animals in research.
- The Legalization of Marijuana: Take a stance on the legalization of marijuana for medicinal or recreational purposes. Present arguments for the decriminalization or legalization of marijuana based on considerations such as public health, criminal justice reform, and economic benefits.
- Gun Control Legislation: Discuss the need for stricter gun control laws to address gun violence and mass shootings in society. Present arguments for implementing measures such as universal background checks, assault weapons bans, and red flag laws to prevent gun-related tragedies.
- Universal Healthcare Coverage: Argue for the implementation of a universal healthcare system that provides healthcare coverage for all citizens. Present evidence supporting the benefits of universal healthcare in terms of improving health outcomes, reducing healthcare disparities, and containing healthcare costs.
- The Role of Social Media in Democracy: Debate the impact of social media platforms on democracy and political discourse. Discuss the influence of social media on election outcomes, misinformation and disinformation campaigns, and the regulation of online speech.
- The Ethics of Genetic Engineering: Explore the ethical dilemmas associated with genetic engineering technologies, such as gene editing and cloning. Discuss the potential benefits and risks of genetic engineering in areas such as medicine, agriculture, and biotechnology.
- Affirmative Action Policies: Discuss the merits and drawbacks of affirmative action policies in promoting diversity and addressing systemic inequalities. Present arguments for or against affirmative action based on considerations such as meritocracy, equal opportunity, and diversity in higher education and the workforce.
- The Impact of Artificial Intelligence on Employment: Debate the potential impact of artificial intelligence (AI) and automation on employment and the future of work. Discuss the opportunities and challenges posed by AI technologies in terms of job displacement, skills training, and economic inequality.
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| Persuasive Essay |
To convince the reader to take action |
Emotional appeals, strong opinions, call to action |
Political speeches, advertisements |
- Implementing Mandatory Voting: Argue for the implementation of mandatory voting laws, requiring eligible citizens to participate in elections. Present arguments for how mandatory voting can increase civic engagement, improve representation, and strengthen democracy.
- Promoting Sustainable Living Practices: Advocate for the adoption of sustainable living practices at the individual, community, and governmental levels. Present evidence supporting the benefits of sustainable living, such as reducing carbon emissions, conserving natural resources, and mitigating climate change.
- Banning Single-Use Plastics: Make the case for banning single-use plastics, such as plastic bags, straws, and utensils, to reduce plastic pollution and protect the environment. Present arguments for alternative materials and policies to promote plastic waste reduction and recycling.
- Addressing Food Insecurity: Advocate for initiatives to address food insecurity and hunger in communities. Present arguments for increasing access to nutritious food, supporting food banks and pantries, and implementing policies to alleviate poverty and food deserts.
- Implementing Universal Basic Income: Argue for the implementation of a universal basic income (UBI) program to address economic inequality and poverty. Present evidence supporting the benefits of UBI in reducing poverty, stimulating economic growth, and providing financial security.
- Combatting Climate Change through Carbon Pricing: Advocate for the implementation of carbon pricing mechanisms, such as carbon taxes or cap-and-trade systems, to mitigate climate change and incentivize emission reductions. Present arguments for how carbon pricing can drive investments in clean energy and promote sustainable development.
- Expanding Access to Higher Education: Make the case for expanding access to higher education through policies such as tuition-free college or student loan forgiveness. Present arguments for how increasing access to higher education can promote social mobility, economic prosperity, and workforce development.
- Supporting LGBTQ+ Rights: Advocate for policies and initiatives to support the rights and equality of LGBTQ+ individuals. Present arguments for anti-discrimination laws, marriage equality, transgender rights, and LGBTQ+ inclusion in education, healthcare, and employment.
- Promoting Mental Health Awareness and Support: Argue for increased awareness and support for mental health issues and initiatives. Present arguments for reducing stigma, increasing access to mental health services, and implementing mental health education and support programs in schools and communities.
- Ending Mass Incarceration: Make the case for ending mass incarceration and reforming the criminal justice system. Present arguments for alternatives to incarceration, such as restorative justice and rehabilitation programs, and policies to address systemic inequalities and biases in the criminal justice system.
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| Compare and Contrast |
To examine similarities and differences |
Comparative analysis, clear criteria, balanced perspective |
Comparisons of two novels, analysis of historical events |
- Traditional Education vs. Online Learning: Compare and contrast traditional classroom-based education with online learning platforms. Explore differences in teaching methods, student interaction, flexibility, and learning outcomes.
- City Life vs. Rural Life: Compare and contrast the lifestyle and amenities of living in a city versus living in a rural area. Discuss factors such as population density, access to services, community dynamics, and quality of life.
- Classical Art vs. Contemporary Art: Compare and contrast classical art movements, such as Renaissance or Baroque, with contemporary art styles and movements. Explore differences in aesthetics, techniques, themes, and cultural contexts.
- Dictatorship vs. Democracy: Compare and contrast authoritarian regimes with democratic forms of government. Discuss differences in governance, individual rights, political participation, and outcomes for society.
- Nature vs. Nurture in Psychology: Compare and contrast the roles of nature (genetics) and nurture (environment) in shaping human behavior and development. Explore debates in psychology regarding the relative influence of biological factors versus environmental factors.
- Traditional Medicine vs. Modern Medicine: Compare and contrast traditional forms of medicine, such as herbal remedies or acupuncture, with modern Western medicine. Discuss differences in approaches to diagnosis, treatment, and healthcare philosophies.
- High School vs. College: Compare and contrast the experiences of attending high school versus attending college. Discuss differences in academic rigor, independence, social dynamics, and preparation for the future.
- East Coast vs. West Coast: Compare and contrast the cultures, lifestyles, and characteristics of the East Coast and West Coast regions of the United States. Explore differences in climate, geography, demographics, and cultural influences.
- Ancient Greek vs. Ancient Roman Civilization: Compare and contrast the civilizations of Ancient Greece and Ancient Rome. Discuss differences in government structures, cultural achievements, social norms, and legacies.
- Traditional Books vs. E-books: Compare and contrast traditional printed books with electronic books (e-books). Explore differences in accessibility, portability, reading experience, environmental impact, and cultural significance.
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| Cause and Effect Essay |
To explore relationships between events |
Identification of causes and effects, logical progression |
Analysis of environmental issues, historical events |
- The Impact of Social Media on Mental Health: Explore the causes and effects of social media usage on mental health. Discuss how factors such as social comparison, cyberbullying, and excessive screen time contribute to mental health issues such as anxiety and depression.
- The Causes and Effects of Climate Change: Investigate the various factors contributing to climate change and their effects on the environment and society. Discuss the role of greenhouse gas emissions, deforestation, and industrialization in driving global warming and its consequences, such as rising sea levels and extreme weather events.
- The Causes and Effects of Childhood Obesity: Examine the factors contributing to the rise in childhood obesity rates and its effects on children’s health and well-being. Discuss the impact of factors such as diet, physical activity, and socioeconomic status on obesity prevalence and related health problems.
- The Impact of Technology on Relationships: Explore how technological advancements have affected interpersonal relationships and communication. Discuss how factors such as social media, smartphones, and online dating apps influence relationship dynamics, intimacy, and communication patterns.
- The Causes and Effects of Smoking: Investigate the causes of smoking initiation and addiction, as well as the health effects of tobacco use. Discuss how factors such as peer pressure, advertising, and nicotine addiction contribute to smoking prevalence and its consequences for public health.
- The Impact of Parental Divorce on Children: Examine the causes and effects of parental divorce on children’s emotional and psychological well-being. Discuss how factors such as parental conflict, changes in family structure, and socioeconomic status influence children’s adjustment to divorce and long-term outcomes.
- The Causes and Effects of Student Stress: Explore the factors contributing to stress among students, such as academic pressure, extracurricular activities, and social expectations. Discuss the effects of stress on students’ mental health, academic performance, and overall well-being.
- The Impact of Urbanization on Wildlife: Investigate how urbanization and habitat loss affect wildlife populations and ecosystems. Discuss the causes of habitat destruction, fragmentation, and pollution, as well as the effects on biodiversity, species extinction, and ecosystem services.
- The Causes and Effects of Poverty: Examine the root causes of poverty and its effects on individuals, families, and communities. Discuss how factors such as lack of education, unemployment, and income inequality perpetuate poverty cycles and contribute to social and economic disparities.
- The Impact of Sleep Deprivation on Health: Explore the causes and effects of sleep deprivation on physical and mental health. Discuss how factors such as work schedules, screen time, and stress disrupt sleep patterns and contribute to health problems such as obesity, cardiovascular disease, and cognitive impairment.
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| Process Essay |
To explain how something is done |
Step-by-step instructions, clear explanations, sequential |
Recipes, instructional guides |
- How to Bake Perfect Chocolate Chip Cookies: Provide a step-by-step guide on baking delicious chocolate chip cookies from scratch. Include instructions on gathering ingredients, mixing the dough, shaping and baking the cookies, and tips for achieving the perfect texture and flavor.
- How to Write a Persuasive Essay: Outline the process of writing a persuasive essay, from selecting a topic and conducting research to crafting a thesis statement, organizing the essay structure, and incorporating evidence and persuasive techniques. Provide tips for effective argumentation and revision.
- How to Plan a Budget: Offer a comprehensive guide on planning a personal or household budget. Explain the steps involved in assessing income and expenses, setting financial goals, allocating funds to different categories, tracking spending, and adjusting the budget as needed.
- How to Grow a Vegetable Garden: Detail the process of starting and maintaining a vegetable garden, from selecting the right location and preparing the soil to planting seeds or seedlings, watering, fertilizing, and managing pests. Include tips for maximizing yield and maintaining garden health.
- How to Perform CPR: Provide a step-by-step guide on performing cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR) in case of an emergency. Explain the proper technique for assessing the situation, performing chest compressions and rescue breaths, and seeking additional help.
- How to Build a Resume: Outline the process of creating a professional resume for job applications. Offer guidance on organizing information, choosing the appropriate format, highlighting skills and accomplishments, and tailoring the resume to specific job requirements.
- How to Plan a Trip: Offer a detailed guide on planning a trip or vacation, from choosing a destination and setting a budget to booking accommodations, transportation, and activities. Provide tips for researching attractions, packing efficiently, and ensuring a smooth travel experience.
- How to Conduct an Effective Job Interview: Detail the process of conducting a successful job interview as an employer or hiring manager. Explain how to prepare interview questions, create a welcoming atmosphere for candidates, assess qualifications and fit, and follow up after the interview.
- How to Make Homemade Pasta: Provide a step-by-step tutorial on making fresh pasta from scratch. Cover the process of mixing and kneading dough, rolling and cutting pasta shapes, and cooking and serving the finished dish with various sauces and toppings.
- How to Launch a Small Business: Offer a comprehensive guide on launching a small business, from developing a business idea and writing a business plan to securing funding, registering the business, hiring employees, and marketing products or services. Include tips for navigating legal and regulatory requirements.
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| Analytical Essay |
To analyze and interpret a subject |
In-depth analysis, critical evaluation, interpretation |
Literary analysis, film critiques |
- Analyzing the Symbolism in “The Great Gatsby”: Explore the symbolism used in F. Scott Fitzgerald’s novel “The Great Gatsby,” such as the green light, the eyes of Dr. T.J. Eckleburg, and the Valley of Ashes. Analyze how these symbols contribute to the themes and overall meaning of the novel.
- Examining the Motifs of Power and Corruption in Shakespeare’s “Macbeth”: Analyze the motifs of power and corruption in William Shakespeare’s tragedy “Macbeth.” Discuss how characters like Macbeth and Lady Macbeth are driven by ambition and the pursuit of power, and examine the consequences of their actions.
- The Use of Foreshadowing in “Romeo and Juliet”: Analyze the use of foreshadowing in William Shakespeare’s play “Romeo and Juliet.” Explore how foreshadowing is employed through language, imagery, and dramatic irony to hint at the tragic fate of the young lovers.
- Exploring the Themes of Identity and Belonging in “The Catcher in the Rye”: Analyze the themes of identity and belonging in J.D. Salinger’s novel “The Catcher in the Rye.” Discuss how the protagonist, Holden Caulfield, grapples with issues of authenticity, alienation, and societal expectations.
- Analyzing the Character Development in “To Kill a Mockingbird”: Analyze the character development of Scout Finch in Harper Lee’s novel “To Kill a Mockingbird.” Trace Scout’s growth from innocence to maturity, and explore how her experiences shape her understanding of morality, empathy, and justice.
- The Portrayal of Gender Roles in “Pride and Prejudice”: Analyze the portrayal of gender roles and expectations in Jane Austen’s novel “Pride and Prejudice.” Discuss how characters like Elizabeth Bennet and Mr. Darcy challenge or conform to societal norms of gender and class.
- Examining the Themes of Race and Identity in “The Bluest Eye”: Analyze the themes of race and identity in Toni Morrison’s novel “The Bluest Eye.” Explore how characters like Pecola Breedlove grapple with issues of self-worth, beauty standards, and racial discrimination.
- The Use of Irony in “Animal Farm”: Analyze the use of irony in George Orwell’s allegorical novella “Animal Farm.” Discuss how Orwell employs irony to satirize totalitarianism, political corruption, and the abuse of power.
- Analyzing the Theme of Social Class in “The Grapes of Wrath”: Explore the theme of social class and inequality in John Steinbeck’s novel “The Grapes of Wrath.” Discuss how characters like the Joad family navigate economic hardship, social injustice, and the pursuit of the American Dream during the Great Depression.
- The Use of Setting in “Wuthering Heights”: Analyze the significance of setting in Emily Bronte’s novel “Wuthering Heights.” Discuss how the remote, windswept moors of Yorkshire contribute to the atmosphere, mood, and themes of the novel.
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| Critical Essay |
To evaluate and critique a work |
Critical perspective, assessment of strengths and weaknesses |
Book reviews, art critiques |
- The Role of Media in Shaping Public Opinion: Critically analyze the influence of media outlets, such as news organizations and social media platforms, in shaping public opinion and perceptions. Explore issues such as media bias, sensationalism, and the impact of algorithmic filtering on information dissemination.
- The Ethics of Artificial Intelligence: Critically examine the ethical implications of artificial intelligence (AI) technologies in various domains, such as healthcare, surveillance, and autonomous weapons systems. Discuss concerns related to privacy, accountability, bias, and the potential for AI to exacerbate social inequalities.
- The Representation of Gender in Film: Critically analyze the portrayal of gender in contemporary films, focusing on themes such as stereotyping, objectification, and representation of LGBTQ+ characters. Discuss how film narratives and visual imagery contribute to societal perceptions of gender roles and identities.
- The Politics of Cultural Appropriation: Critically examine the phenomenon of cultural appropriation in popular culture, fashion, and the arts. Discuss the power dynamics, colonial legacies, and ethical considerations involved in the appropriation of marginalized cultures by dominant groups.
- The Impact of Globalization on Labor Rights: Critically analyze the effects of globalization on labor rights and working conditions in developing and developed countries. Discuss issues such as outsourcing, sweatshop labor, and the role of multinational corporations in shaping global labor markets.
- The Environmental Consequences of Consumerism: Critically examine the environmental impact of consumerism and overconsumption in affluent societies. Discuss issues such as resource depletion, pollution, waste generation, and the need for sustainable consumption patterns.
- The Legacy of Colonialism in Contemporary Society: Critically analyze the enduring effects of colonialism on contemporary societies, particularly in terms of political structures, economic inequalities, and cultural identities. Discuss how colonial legacies continue to shape power dynamics and social relations.
- The Ethics of Animal Experimentation: Critically examine the ethical considerations surrounding animal experimentation in scientific research and biomedical testing. Discuss arguments for and against the use of animals in research, alternative methods, and the implications for animal welfare and human health.
- The Impact of Social Media on Democracy: Critically analyze the role of social media platforms in shaping political discourse, public opinion, and democratic processes. Discuss issues such as echo chambers, filter bubbles, misinformation, and the regulation of online speech.
- The Representation of Race in Literature: Critically examine the representation of race and racial identity in literary texts from diverse cultural perspectives. Discuss themes such as racial stereotypes, cultural appropriation, and the portrayal of racialized experiences in literature.
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