English that goes straight to the heart

What is an essay?

Aldous Huxley described an essay as “A literary device for saying almost everything about almost anything”.

What is an Essay?

An essay is a piece of writing that revolves around a particular theme and contains the academic opinions of the person writing it.

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An essay can perform one or more of the following functions:

  • Analyses and critically evaluates a topic
  • Presents the writer‘s argument for or against an idea
  • Describes something
  • Narrates a story
  • Persuades the reader

What is an essay?

Also, Read 6 Types of Essay

Characteristics of a Good Essay

  • Brevity: Express what you want concisely. Do not beat around the bush.
  • Coherence: Every sentence and paragraph should flow smoothly and logically from the previous one. A clumsily written essay reflects not only the lack of preparation but also the absence of clarity of thought.
  • Unity: The essay should never stray from its main purpose. Different points of view can be introduced, but they should all be used for the same subject.
  • Lucidity: The essay should be easy to read and understand. Using tough words or difficult phrases may impress a few but can confuse many others. Great writers are praised not only for their beautiful ideas but also for the simplicity of their language.

Also, Read Top 10 Essay Examples

The objective of Essay Writing

Essay writing often forms a part of English written exams to test the ability of students to

  • Think critically: Critical thinking involves understanding the task at hand and evaluating it appropriately.
  • Structure the ideas logically: The essay has to be structured and coherent. The ideas have to neatly flow from one paragraph to the other.
  • Express views eloquently: The student should be fluent in the language he or she is writing in. Ideas when presented shoddily may not make the right impact.

Parts of an Essay

Introduction.

It constitutes the opening paragraph of the essay.

  • It helps the reader get oriented with the topic.
  • It states the purpose of the essay.
  • It captures the interest of the reader.
  • It presents the general idea of the essay.
  • It often ends with the thesis or the main idea of the essay.

Body (Supporting Paragraphs)

They constitute the supporting sentences and ideas.

  • They provide the reader with additional details about the main idea.
  • They support the thesis of the writer.
  • There is no fixed number of supporting paragraphs.
  • Ideally, every supporting paragraph should contain a different idea.

It constitutes the ending paragraph(s) of the essay.

  • It ties up loose ends of the paragraph.
  • It helps in reiterating or highlighting the main idea.
  • It summarises all the arguments.
  • It brings the essay to a logical close.
  • It never ends in detail.

Also, Read Short Essay Examples

Tips for Writing an Essay

Preparation.

  • Read: The more you read, the better you get. Reading essays will give you the inspiration to write. It will fill you with knowledge that you can use to enrich your writing.
  • Write: Practise writing essays. This will give you the necessary confidence that you require during the exams. Writing also sharpens your thought process preparing you to deal with essay questions with much ease.

1. Think about the idea given in the title or the prompt.

  • What type of essay will be appropriate?
  • What could be the main ideas?
  • How to write the introduction, the body and the conclusion?
  • Write all the ideas.

2. Structure your essay.

  • Create an outline of your essay.
  • Do not use more than two sentences for the introduction and conclusion, respectively.
  • Therefore, it is important to plan your essay before instead of writing spontaneously.
  • Arrange the ideas in chronological order if you are attempting a narrative essay.
  • Arrange them in increasing order of importance while attempting a descriptive or expository essay.
  • Remember to conclude the essay.

3. Use a consistent tense form while writing the essay.

4. Express clearly.

5. Be original in your ideas. Don‘t be afraid to think out of the box.

6. Use your own memories or your experiences to add to the essay.

7. Recheck for any grammatical errors after finishing the essay.

Also, Read Summarizing an Essay

Example of Essay

My native place.

My parents hail from a small village in Kerala which is nestled among mountains in a scenic district of the state. Every year, I visit my native place with my family. It is a trip that I look forward to all year. My father books the ticket two months in advance as it is difficult to procure reservations on short notice. Although I have lived in the city all my life, I feel that I never belonged to it. I have always felt at home in the quaint mountain village that is far removed from the hustle and bustle of city life.

It takes us 18 hours by train to reach the railway station that is closest to my village. The journey is usually gruelling in the summers but very pleasant in the winters and in the monsoons. We plan our trip in the summer months since we get a two-month vacation in April. In order to beat the heat, we travel by air-conditioned coaches every year. We board the train at noon and we reach our destination at 6 am the next day.

The morning air is heavy with the scent of flowers and wet foliage. The temple bells start ringing at 6:30 am and the sound of bhajans fills the air. The village is only a 20-minute rickshaw ride away from the station. When we enter my grandmother‘s house, we are welcomed by her diminutive figure holding a lamp.

According to her, it is auspicious to welcome loved ones by lighting the lamp at the altar of God. The moment we set foot into the house, we are filled with a sense of nostalgia and love. After a sumptuous yet simple breakfast, we relax with our family in the courtyard.

The cool mountain air is laden with scents of the rustic countryside. From afar, we hear the sounds of birds. My sister and I make paper boats and run to the little babbling brook that flows southwards. We set the boats on the water and watch them bob up and down. Far away from the world of video games and television, we seek fun in a world of simplicity.

The house itself has a personality. Simple, two-storeyed, made of stone walls and a thatched roof, the house is an old friend who warmly embraces you every time you meet. The rooms are small but well-maintained. On the ground floor is a room that my grandmother uses for storing condiments and grains. It is illuminated with a single light bulb and an old-fashioned lock-and-key style door. In its corner is a small bed.

The calming silence of the room soothes my ears and transports me into a magical place. I feel weightless. The smell of spices envelops me. On many occasions, I have spent hours sprawled on that bed reading a book or listening to music. If I ever have to pick a favourite place, then I have no doubt this would be it.

When twilight descends on the little hamlet, large clusters of stars start appearing in the sky. Such a sight is never seen in the city as the lights obscure the stars that appear in the sky. My grandmother lights the lamp again and we all gather around her to say our evening prayers. After enjoying her simple, rustic yet delicious meal, we retire for the night.

Sometimes when I am upset, I think of my quaint little house in the village, my grandmother‘s warm embrace, and the small room that smells of spices. They immediately help me put my worries away and bring a smile to my face.

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How To Write An Essay: Characteristics, Structure

How To Write An Essay: Characteristics, Structure

Essay writing is an integral skill that transcends academic boundaries and professional environments alike. Mastering the craft of creating well-structured essays is key for effective communication of ideas and arguments, so in this guide, we will look at its key characteristics and structure that make an outstanding essay as well as discuss why legitimizing essay-writing services such as PapersOwl reviews is essential.

Characteristics of an Outstanding Essay

An effective thesis statement.

Every strong essay begins with an explicit and precise thesis statement which articulates its central argument or purpose. This statement serves both writer and reader in providing clarity and focus, providing direction.

An Effective Structure

An outstanding essay utilizes a defined structure consisting of an introduction, body paragraphs, and conclusion. Each section serves a distinct role that contributes to overall coherence and flow of the piece.

Engaging Introduction

An engaging introduction sets the stage for any essay by captivating its reader’s interest, providing context, and outlining its thesis statement. A good start sets a positive precedent and encourages further reading.

Coherent Body Paragraphs

The body of an essay expands on its thesis statement by providing supporting evidence, examples, and arguments. Each paragraph must include a clear topic sentence with supporting details as well as smooth transitions for efficient readability.

Effective Use of Evidence

An outstanding essay utilizes credible evidence to support its claims and demonstrate credibility. This could include data, quotes from experts or personal experience; proper citation is important in maintaining its integrity.

Critical Analysis

Outstanding essays go beyond simply providing information; they involve critical analysis as well. Writers should show they possess the ability to evaluate information from different perspectives and come to informed decisions about a given issue.

Concise and Clear Language

Clarity is of utmost importance in essay writing. Avoiding unnecessary jargon and using clear, concise language are crucial elements of effective communication of your ideas. Strive for precision and coherence in each sentence written.

Transition Words for Seamless Flow

Transition words and phrases help connect ideas seamlessly while maintaining an orderly and unbroken flow from paragraph to paragraph and section to section in an essay, making it easier for the reader to follow your arguments.

Essay Structure

Incorporating introduction (10-15% of essay length).

Hook the reader with an engaging fact, quote, or question to catch their interest and provide necessary background info to contextualize your topic. State clearly your thesis statement while outlining your main argument.

Body Paragraphs (70%-80% of Essay)

Each paragraph should address one idea or point related to your thesis. Each should begin with a topic sentence that introduces its main point. Then provide evidence and examples that support that main idea before using critical analysis to interpret and explain their significance.

Conclusion (10-15% of Essay):

Summarize and restate the thesis statement in a new light, emphasizing its wider ramifications, to encourage further thought or action related to the topic at hand.

Check legitimacy in this papersowl review . PapersOwl is one such platform offering online essay-writing services that students often rely on in the digital era to meet tight deadlines or complete difficult assignments, but it’s essential that their legitimacy be checked to protect academic integrity and ethical practices.

Crafting Engaging Introductions

An engaging introduction serves as the face of your essay, captivating reader’s attention and setting the stage for what follows. While an attention-grabbing hook is important, providing context and leading up to your thesis statement are equally crucial components. Consider using anecdotes, thought-provoking questions or powerful quotes to engage readers. This balance ensures your introduction is not only memorable but also informative as it leads into the main body of your essay seamlessly.

Enhancing Body Paragraphs

To become an excellent essay writer, focus on honing the art of body paragraph construction. Each paragraph should begin with a topic sentence encapsulating its main idea and progress through specific details supported with research-backed evidence or examples. As you progress through body paragraphs, use effective transitions for readability as well as to make arguments more logical by leading readers through your thought process.

While evidence presentation is key, what truly distinguishes an outstanding essay is its capacity for critical analysis. Go beyond mere description by engaging with your sources to show your ability to evaluate, question, and synthesize information – this elevates your essay from being simply a collection of facts to an in-depth exploration of a topic while showcasing your intellectual prowess!

The Art of Concise and Clear Language

Precision in language is often undervalued when writing essays. Focus on clarity by avoiding unnecessary complexity. Strive for a balance between sophistication and accessibility to ensure your ideas reach a wide audience. Keep in mind that clarity adds depth and engagement with readers who engage with your writing – don’t take this for granted!

Transitions Are Key for Seamless Essay Flow

Transitions serve as the glue that holds your essay together. Utilizing carefully chosen transition words and phrases to guide readers smoothly from section to section creates a natural and logical progression for readers – whether between paragraphs or within sentences – and adds significantly to the coherence of writing. Experiment with various transitions until you find what best connects your ideas together.

Conclusions that Promote Reflection

An engaging conclusion goes beyond summarizing your main points. Use this space to reaffirm your thesis with fresh emphasis, elaborating its broader implications. Prompt readers to ponder on its significance as well as consider potential paths for further exploration. Leaving a lasting impression ensures your ideas resonate more fully within their minds while strengthening bonds between you and them.

Mastering the art of essay writing requires honing specific characteristics and adhering to a predefined structure. From crafting an eye-catching thesis statement to crafting compelling body paragraphs, each element plays a pivotal role in crafting exceptional essays. Furthermore, when seeking external assistance, it’s vitally important that essay-writing services remain legitimate, such as PapersOwl reviews. When combined together these components allow writers to elevate their essays to new levels of clarity, coherence, and effectiveness.

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Essay Writing: Types, Components/Format , Characteristics and Samples

Table of Contents

How to Write an Essay?

High school and college students have to write essays as part of their curriculum. Writing an essay is a bit different from other forms of writing, and depending on the complexity of the subject, one can easily get confused and overwhelmed. Therefore, we have prepared a must-read guide for you which will help you to become a professional essay writer.

What is an essay?

An essay is a properly and logically constructed literary composition usually dealing with a subject /topic usually from the point of view of the author. It is often non-fiction where the presentation is often based on facts. It can also be based on assumptions (researched or educated opinions that include a number of facts) or subjective (based on opinions) in terms of language, perception and experience, as well as world interpretations. It has a beginning, a middle and an end. Like a paragraph, it is also classified into several types such as narrative, descriptive, imaginative, reflective, expository and argumentative.

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An essay typically has an introduction, a body, and a conclusion. The introduction section introduces the thesis, and then the body section goes into the finer details of the subject matter. The conclusion summarizes the paper and gives recommendations where applicable. A good essay writer knows the importance of this structure and will ensure it is adhered to in the paper.

Properly Organized Essays

When writing an essay, it is best to take a stepwise approach. You should start by gathering all the required information on the topic. You will need to read widely to analyze the available data critically. This will enable you to know how best to organize the essay. Besides, you need to write the essay in proper English and without any grammatical or typographical mistakes. Only use sentences that are structured properly and that have a clear meaning. You should also desist from ambiguity and wordiness.

Good essay writers are also proficient in all available referencing styles including APA , MLA , AMA, Harvard, Turabian, etc. Professors are usually very stringent regarding these referencing styles, and you have no choice but to get it right or you might miss the grade you desire to get. The best essay writers are very knowledgeable about referencing requirements.

Components and format of An Essay

An essay is written to persuade others or simply to educate the reader about a specific subject. For the reader to be convinced or fully educated, the essay must contain a variety of essential components to make it flow in a logical manner. The key parts (or sections) of the essay as mentioned above are the title, introduction, body, and conclusion. Let’s discuss them again with more details:

Title/ Topic : It is the name of the topic/subject of the essay. It summarises the main idea of your essay.

➡Use short cliches or familiar phrases that are one to eight words long.

Choosing Good Essay Topics

For one to write a great article, they must at least identify some good essay topics. The concept and the guiding idea of what you will write about will be determined with the topics for essays you select. The topic of your piece should leave a good impression to your readers to want to read the content of your article. The professional writers are good at picking great college essay topics and writing quality content. You should choose English essay topics that you can write on excellently to help learners in getting better results. The topics should he precise that have value for its intended readers.

Persuasive essay topics writing tips

In persuasive essay topics, the writer takes a position on a given issue and defends their position to convince the reader. These articles require proper research, keenness of the biases of the reader and a good understanding of all the sides of the problem. You shall come up with interesting essay topics that persuade the readers that the opinion you take is correct and the opposing views are wrong. Many students confuse these kinds of essays with controversial essay topics. In persuasive essays, the writer must always keep in mind that the purpose is to convince or persuade the readers to act or think in a given way and not just to inform them.

Here are some of the common essay topics:

  • Analysis essay topics: these articles give informative observations about a particular idea or topic.
  • Descriptive essay topics: these are used to test the ability of a student in describing a place, person, object, etc.
  • Narrative essay topics: these are pieces telling about someone’s experience in a literary way.
  • Compare and contrast essay topics: here you write on the similarities and differences of certain things. The paper must be well-organized to make it clear and effective.
  • Informative essay topics: writings that are intended to provide the reader with information on something.
  • Literature essay topics: these are articles that provide information on a given book.
  • Admission essay topics: through these essays, admission officers can learn more about a student apart from their performance at exams.
  • Application essay topics: the main purpose of application essays is to help the reader to follow the directions of using something.
  • Classification essay topics: in these writings things are organized according to categories that they fit in.
  • Extended essay topics: it is a type of research paper that gives learners the chance to perform an investigation or independent research on a topic that they like.
  • History essay topics: these are essays that tell about past events.
  • Research essay topics: these are essays written about the research conducted and its findings.

Introduction : It introduces the subject/topic through a compelling opening brief paragraph, especially by using a saying or quotation of some author.

Pro Tips : ➡ Should contain a surprise or attention grabber for the reader or at least make the essay sound interesting. One good way to do this is, to begin with, a quote about the topic. ➡ Ensure that the presentation shifts from the general to the particular in regards to the topic. ➡Presents a “road map” of the essay to the reader in a clear order. ➡ The most important part of the intro will be what is considered a thesis statement at the end ➡ The thesis statement sets out the intent of the paper and can provide insight into the examples and facts of the author

Main body: The structure of the main body depends on what the title is asking you to do. In case of a discussion type essay, the main body is often divided into two parts, one looking at the advantages of the topic and the other looking at the disadvantages.

➡Contains the evidence and support of the paper in addition to the author’s ideas

➡ Paragraphs must contain a topic sentence which relates the discussion back to the thesis statement.

➡ Logical ordering of ideas: three types of order are:

1. Chronological order: order of time, good for narratives

2. Spatial order: good for descriptions of locations; top to bottom,

3. Emphatic order: most common for college writing; proceed from least important to most important.

➡ Ensure that transitions are present to create a good flow to the essay

➡ Include enough information, examples and evidence to support your argument and do not forget to cite, cite, cite!

➡ Make it sure that each example is relevant to your specific topic

Conclusion : A brief summary of the main body.

➡This section should conclude all of your arguments and points

➡Should restate the main arguments in a brief and simplified manner.

➡ Ensure that the reader is given something to think about, especially if it is an argumentative essay.

Do not ever forget to allow time to rewrite the first draft of your essay and, then, to proofread it before turning it in.

In a typical short essay, five paragraphs will provide the reader with enough details in a limited period of time. However, it is important for a research paper or dissertation to have more than five paragraphs in order so as not to confuse the reader with too much detail in one paragraph.

KINDS OF ESSAYS

Essays like paragraphs may be classified as narrative, descriptive, imaginative, reflective, expository and argumentative. However, some essays may partake the peculiarities of more than one class or type. For instance, a narrative essay may contain a good deal of description or an argumentative essay may contain a good deal of reflection. Let us now describe them one by one.

1. Narrative Essay : It is an essay which narrates an event or a series of events. It tells the readers what happened. The happenings must be given in the order in which they occurred. Narrative essays deal with –

➡ biographies (e.g. the life of Prophet Mohammad(SAW), or of Mahatma Gandhi);

➡ historical events or legends (e.g. the reign of Yousuf Shah Chek, or the story of Pandavas from the Mahabharata);

➡ incidents (e.g. a quarrel in a neighbourhood, a marriage ceremony, or a festival);

➡ an accident or natural disaster (e.g. an earthquake, a fire, a flood, a road accident, a plane crash, or a tsunami);

➡ a journey or voyage ( e.g. a journey in an overloaded bus from your home to college, or travel through the ship to the holy city of Mecca for performing Hajj);

➡ a story ( real or imaginary).

2. Descriptive Essay : – It is an essay which describes or gives a description of something – a person or a place or a thing. Here, the writer keeps himself apart and does not allow his own feelings to appear.

Descriptive Essays are about – ➡ plants, animals, minerals etc. (e.g. the chinar, the tiger, coal etc.); ➡ cities, towns, countries, buildings etc. (e.g. Lal Chowk, Sopore, Saudi Arabia, the Taj Mahal, etc.); ➡. aspects and phenomena of nature (e.g. sunlight, the monsoon, volcanoes, a cloudy evening, etc.); and ➡ manufactured articles (e.g. aeroplanes, silk, motor-cars, trains, vacuum-cleaner, fridge, washing machine, etc.).

3. Imaginative Essay: It is an essay in which the writer is called to place himself imaginatively in a position and narrate his experience/s.

Essays on such subjects as “If I were the President of the USA” or “The Autobiography of a Cow” may be called imaginative essays.

4. Reflective Essay: It is an essay which consists of the writer’s thoughts or reflections on some topic. This essay is generally of an abstract nature. Reflective essays deal with – ➡ qualities, etc. (e.g., honesty, truth- fullness, heroism, temperance, patriotism, cowardice etc,) ;

➡ social, political and domestic topics (e.g., caste, poverty, wealth, liberty, education, democracy, business, government, marriage, family life etc.);

➡ philosophical topics (e.g., reality, the meaning of the universe, right and wrong, consciousness, morality, etc.); and

➡ religious and theological topics.

5. Expository Essay: – It is an essay which explains something. It gives facts arranged in a logical order. It answers the question – how and why. Expository essays –deal with

➡ scientific topics (e.g., the evolution of man, cosmology, solar system, gravitation etc.);

➡ institutions, occupations, industries (e.g., Lok Sabha, Rajya Sabha, farming, leather- tanning etc.) ;

➡ literary topics (e.g., the novels of Dickens, the tragedies of Shakespeare, the style of poetry, etc.).

6. Argumentative Essay: It is an essay which intends to prove or to disprove something. It aims to persuade the reader that the writer’s point of view is correct. Paragraphs on such subjects or topics as “Is Science a Blessing or a Curse?” or “Is Life for us Better than it was for our Forefathers?” may be called argumentative essays.

CHARACTERISTICS OF A GOOD ESSAY

A good essay should have the following characteristics:

1. Unity : It means all the parts of the essay should be clearly related to the subject.

2. Coherence: It means that there should be a logical sequence of thought, i.e., each sentence and paragraph in the essay should link with each other in order to appear as a single whole.

3. Relevance: It means that the ideas/information given in the essay should be relevant to the subject of the essay.

4. Proportion : It means important ideas/information should be given more space and time in the essay.

Read Also: How to write a Paragraph?

When writing an essay, you should always consider:

  • Your purpose (your reason for writing)
  • Your audience (to whom you are writing),
  • who will read it, think about it and respond to it.

The person for whom you are writing will influence the way you write as well as the vocabulary you choose. Your purpose should be scholarly, for entertainment or educational. Each of those purposes will change the way you write.

A described above good essay has three parts:

The introduction is the first paragraph of the essay. It should capture the attention of the reader and create a desire to read the essay and develop the basic ideas of what you’re going to cover. It should begin with a general discussion of your subject to provide background information. They’re called general statements. General statements should lead to a specific statement of your basic idea or thesis.

This is known as a thesis statement. It should be the last sentence of the introduction, and it is usually only one sentence. It includes the topic, the focus and the main points of the essay.

Each body paragraph should begin with a transition – for example, either a word or a phrase such as “first” or “further” or “another important point.” Then, the first sentence should continue with your topic sentence. The topic sentence tells your reader what the paragraph is about, like a thesis statement on a smaller level. The remainder of the article should consist of sentences supporting it. At least four of those sentences will explain your topic sentence to your reader.

The conclusion is the final paragraph of the essay. This paragraph concludes the essay, reminds the reader of the essay’s basic ideas and reiterates the thesis statement. It may also include words of suggestion or advice. The conclusion does not contain new ideas, because it is the end of the content of the essay.

Let’s Sum Up! Writing an essay is not more difficult than writing a paragraph, except that the essay is longer. In other words, paragraph is the fundamental unit of an essay. So, the principles and techniques of organization are the same for both of them. If you can write a good paragraph, you can also write a good essay. We have already discussed in detail about how to write a paragraph. The link is given here .

Some Essay Samples

1. Cigarette Smoking and Its Effects

2. A Cricket Match

3. The Uses and Abuses of The Cinema

4. Essay on AIDS In English

5. Independence Day

6. Uses of Electricity

7. Globalization and Poverty

9. Winter in Kashmir

10. Beauties of Kashmir

11. My Ambition in Life

12. Time is Money

13. Spring in Kashmir

14. Wonders of Science

15. Uses of Forests

16. A Visit to a Health Resort

17. Holiday

18. Morning Walk

19. Environmental Pollution

20. Friendship

22. Value of Discipline

23. Importance of Newspaper

24. Environmental Conservation

25. Effects of Junk Food on Health

26. My Hobby

27. My School Laboratory

28. My School Library

29. Student Unrest

30. Mahatma Gandhi

31. An Ideal Student

32. Importance of Games and Sports

33. An Ideal Teacher

34. Uses and Abuses of Television

35. Air Pollution

36. Essay on Computer

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essay characteristics

Writing an Informative Essay

Informative essays engage readers with new, interesting, and often surprising facts and details about a subject. Informative essays are educational; readers expect to learn something new from them. In fact, much of the reading and writing done in college and the workplace is informative. From textbooks to reports to tutorials like this one, informative writing imparts important and useful information about a topic.

This tutorial refers to the sample informative outline and final essay written by fictional student Paige Turner.

Reasons to Write Informatively

Your purpose for writing and the audience for whom you are writing will impact the depth and breadth of information you provide, but all informative writing aims to present a subject without opinions or bias. Some common reasons to write informatively are to

  • report findings that an audience would find interesting,
  • present facts that an audience would find useful, and
  • communicate information about a person, place, event, issue, or change that would improve an audience’s understanding.

Characteristics of Informative Essays

Informative essays present factual information and do not attempt to sway readers’ opinions about it. Other types of academic and workplace writing do try to influence readers’ opinions:

  • Expository essays aim to expose a truth about an issue in order to influence how readers view the issue.
  • Persuasive essays aim to influence readers’ opinions, so they will adopt a particular position or take a certain course of action.

Expository and persuasive essays make “arguments.” The only argument an informative essay makes is that something exists, did exist, is happening, or has happened, and the point of the essay is not to convince readers of this but to tell them about it.

  • Informative essays seek to enlighten and educate readers, so they can make their own educated opinions and decisions about what to think and how to act.

Strategies for Writing Informatively

Informative essays provide useful information such as facts, examples, and evidence from research in order to help readers understand a topic or see it more clearly. While informative writing does not aim to appeal emotionally to readers in order to change their opinions or behaviors, informative writing should still be engaging to read. Factual information is not necessarily dry or boring. Sometimes facts can be more alarming than fiction!

Writers use various strategies to engage and educate readers. Some strategies include

  • introducing the topic with an alarming fact or arresting image;
  • asserting what is true or so about the subject in a clear thesis statement;
  • organizing the paragraphs logically by grouping related information;
  • unifying each paragraph with a topic sentence and controlling idea;
  • developing cohesive paragraphs with transition sentences;
  • using precise language and terminology appropriate for the topic, purpose, and audience; and
  • concluding with a final idea or example that captures the essay’s purpose and leaves a lasting impression.

Five Steps for Getting Started

1. Brainstorm and choose a topic.

  • Sample topic : The opioid epidemic in the United States.
  • The opiod epidemic or even opiod addiction would would be considered too broad for a single essay, so the next steps aim to narrow this topic down.

2. Next, write a question about the topic that you would like to answer through research.

  • Sample question : What major events caused the opioid crisis in the United States?
  • This question aims to narrow the topic down to causes of the epidemic in the US.

3. Now go to the Purdue Global Library to find the answers to your research question.

As you begin reading and collecting sources, write down the themes that emerge as common answers. Later, in step four, use the most common answers (or the ones you are most interested in writing and discussing) to construct a thesis statement.

  • Sample answers: aggressive marketing, loopholes in prescription drug provider programs, and economic downturn.

4. Next, provide purpose to your paper by creating a thesis statement.

The thesis attempts to frame your research question. The sample thesis below incorporates three of the more common answers for the research question from step two: What caused the opioid crisis in the United States?

  • Thesis Statement : Aggressive marketing, loopholes in prescription drug provider programs, and economic downturn contributed to the current opioid crisis in the United States.
  • Writing Tip : For additional help with thesis statements, please visit our Writing a Thesis Statement article. For help with writing in 3rd person, see our article on Formal Vs. Informal Writing .

5. Now follow each numbered step in the “Suggested Outline Format and Sample” below.

Sample answers have been provided for “I. Introduction” and “II. First Cause.” A complete sample outline can be seen here. A complete sample informative essay can be seen here.

Suggested Outline Format and Sample

I. INTRODUCTION

A. First provide a topic sentence that introduces the main topic: Sample topic sentence : There is a current prescription pain medication addiction and abuse epidemic possibly caused by an excessive over prescription of these medications.

B. Now provide a couple sentences with evidence to support the main topic: Sample sentence one with evidence to support the main topic : According to Dr. Nora Volkow, Director of National Institute on Drug Abuse (NIDA), in testimony before the 115th Congress, “In 2016, over 11 million Americans misused prescription opioids … and 2.1 million had an opioid use disorder due to prescription opioids” (Federal Efforts to Combat the Opioid Crisis, 2017, p. 2).

C. Sample sentence two with evidence to support the main topic : Volkow indicated “more than 300,000 Americans have died of an opioid overdose” since 2013 (Federal Efforts to Combat the Opioid Crisis, 2017, p.2).

D. Sample sentence three with evidence to support the main topic : According to Perez-Pena (2017), the Center for Disease Control and Prevention reported more than 25,000 people in the United States died in 2015 from overdosing on opioids Fentanyl, Oxycodone, and Hydrocodone.

E. Toward the end of the introduction, include your thesis statement written in the 3rd-person point-of-view: Sample thesis statement : Potential solutions to the growing opioid epidemic may be illuminated by examining how opioid addiction is triggered through aggressive pharmaceutical marketing, how opioid addiction manifests among prescribed patients, and how economic downturns play a role in the increase of opioid addiction.

F. Write down the library sources you can use in this introductory paragraph to help support the main topic.

  • Federal Efforts to Combat the Opioid Crisis, 2017
  • Perez-Pena, 2017
  • Writing Tip : For more help writing an introduction, please refer to this article on introductions and conclusions .

II. FIRST CAUSE

A. First provide a topic sentence that introduces the first cause of the opioid epidemic: Sample topic sentence that introduces the first cause : One issue that helped contribute to the opioid epidemic is aggressive marketing by pharmaceutical manufacturers.

B. Now provide sentences with evidence to support the first cause: Sample sentence one with evidence that supports the first cause : Perez-Pena (2017) concluded that while the healthcare industry was attempting to effectively and efficiently treat patients with chronic pain, pharmaceutical companies were providing funding to prominent doctors, medical societies, and patient advocacy groups in order to win support for a particular drug’s adoption and usage.

C. Sample sentence two with evidence to support the first cause : In fact, pharmaceutical companies continue to spend millions on promotional activities and materials that deny or trivialize any risks of opioid use while at the same time overstating each drug’s benefit (Perez-Pina, 2017).

D. Next, add more information or provide concluding or transitional sentences that foreshadows the upcoming second cause: Sample concluding and transitional sentence that foreshadow the second cause : Although aggressive marketing by pharmaceutical companies played a large role in opioid addiction, patients are to blame too, as many take advantage of holes in the healthcare provider system in order to remedy their addiction.

E. Write down the library sources you can use in this body paragraph to help support the first cause:

  • Writing Tip : For more assistance working with sources, please visit the Using Sources page here.

III. SECOND CAUSE

A. First provide a topic sentence that introduces the second cause.

B. Now provide sentences with evidence to support the second cause.

C. Next, add more information or provide concluding or transitional sentences that foreshadows the upcoming third cause.

D. Write down the library sources you can use in this body paragraph to help support the second cause:

  • Writing Tip : Listen to Writing Powerful Sentences for information and features of effective writing.

IV. THIRD CAUSE

A. First provide a topic sentence that introduces the third cause.

B. Now provide sentences with evidence to support the third cause.

C. Next, add more information or provide a concluding sentence or two.

D. Write down the library sources you can use in this body paragraph to help support the third cause:

V. CONCLUSION: Summary of key points and evidence discussed.

  • Writing Tip : For more help writing a conclusion, refer to this podcast on endings .
  • Writing Tip : Have a question? Leave a comment below or Purdue Global students, click here to access the Purdue Global Writing Center tutoring platform and available staff.
  • Writing Tip : Ready to have someone look at your paper? Purdue Global students, click here to submit your assignment for feedback through our video paper review service.

See a Sample Informative Essay Outline here .

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dang bro i got an A

Having faith with all this mentioned, that i will pass my english class at a college. Thank you for posting.

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Characteristics and Personality Traits of French Bulldogs

This essay is about the distinctive traits of French Bulldogs and why they are cherished pets. It highlights their affectionate and friendly nature, making them great companions for families and individuals alike. French Bulldogs are known for their low exercise needs, adaptability to various living environments, and intelligence, which makes training them easier. However, they require attention to their health due to respiratory issues and a tendency toward obesity. The essay also discusses their social and expressive personalities, grooming needs, and diet requirements. Overall, it underscores the breed’s unique charm and the importance of responsible ownership for their well-being.

How it works

French Bulldogs, affectionately labeled as “Frenchies,” have witnessed a surge in popularity in recent times, and the reasons behind this phenomenon are readily apparent. These canines exhibit a distinctive visage and a captivating demeanor that endears them to enthusiasts of the canine world. From their unique bat-like ears to their compact, robust physique, French Bulldogs possess an allure that is as irresistible as it is enduring.

A standout characteristic of French Bulldogs is their profoundly affectionate and amiable disposition. Renowned for their penchant for human interaction and their fervent desire to be at the center of attention, these dogs promise an unwavering and affectionate companionship to their owners.

They forge profound connections with their human counterparts and often shadow their every move, epitomizing the quintessential loyal companion. Their affable demeanor extends beyond familial ties; French Bulldogs typically harmonize harmoniously with children and other pets, rendering them an optimal choice for households seeking harmony and camaraderie.

Another captivating attribute of French Bulldogs lies in their modest exercise requisites. In stark contrast to high-energy breeds that demand constant physical stimulation, Frenchies contentedly engage in brief, invigorating excursions and playful interludes. Ill-suited for protracted bouts of exertion, they thrive in urban settings or domiciles bereft of expansive outdoor spaces. Nonetheless, it is imperative to ensure that they partake in adequate physical activity to safeguard their well-being and stave off the specter of obesity, a prevalent concern due to their robust physique. Moderation is paramount, and regular engagement in low-impact activities is instrumental in preserving their vigor and vitality.

French Bulldogs are also distinguished by their acumen and adaptability. Possessing an innate facility for assimilating new knowledge, they respond favorably to training methodologies characterized by consistency and positive reinforcement. While they may occasionally evince a streak of obstinacy, their eagerness to gratify their owners invariably eclipses any semblance of recalcitrance. This inherent intelligence and adaptability endow French Bulldogs with the versatility to thrive in diverse settings and lifestyles. Whether ensconced amidst the bustle of urban life or ensconced within the serenity of suburban environs, Frenchies demonstrate an uncanny ability to acclimate and flourish, provided they receive the requisite affection and care.

Despite their myriad commendable attributes, French Bulldogs are beset by a litany of health concerns necessitating due diligence on the part of prospective owners. Their brachycephalic (short-nosed) configuration predisposes them to respiratory ailments, exacerbated by sweltering climes or strenuous physical exertion. Vigilant monitoring of their respiratory function and judicious avoidance of extreme temperatures are indispensable precautions. Additionally, their prominent, erect ears are susceptible to infections, mandating regular vigilance and preventive measures. Adherence to responsible breeding practices and consistent veterinary oversight are indispensable for mitigating these health risks and ensuring the longevity and well-being of French Bulldogs.

Gregarious and affable, French Bulldogs revel in human company and typically exhibit sociability towards strangers following proper introductions. This sociability renders them ideal companions for convivial hosts or individuals frequently in the company of new acquaintances. Nevertheless, their profound attachment to their owners renders them ill at ease when left to their own devices for protracted intervals. The specter of separation anxiety looms large, necessitating measures to assuage their solitude through companionship or engaging diversions in the owner’s absence.

Yet another endearing quality of French Bulldogs manifests in their idiosyncratic and expressive demeanor. Their countenance and comportment often evoke anthropomorphic emotions, eliciting both amusement and endearment. This expressive capacity contributes substantially to their appeal as pets, as they possess a singular mode of communication with their owners. Their vocalizations, comprising an array of grunts, snorts, and assorted utterances, further accentuate their charm and distinctive persona. French Bulldogs possess an uncanny knack for eliciting smiles from those in their midst, their amusing antics and endearing vocalizations serving as an endless fount of delight.

Regarding grooming, French Bulldogs entail relatively minimal maintenance. Their abbreviated coats necessitate scant brushing, though regular grooming aids in curbing shedding and preserving coat health. Particular attention should be directed towards the folds of their skin, especially around the visage, to forestall irritation and infections. Regular trimming of nails, cleaning of ears, and dental hygiene are likewise indispensable facets of maintaining their overall well-being and hygiene. While they eschew extensive grooming, consistent care is pivotal in ensuring the cleanliness and comfort of French Bulldogs.

In summation, French Bulldogs epitomize the epitome of endearing companionship, distinguished by their affectionate, astute, and adaptable nature. Their genial disposition and unpretentious exercise requirements render them eminently suitable for a plethora of residential contexts, from bustling urban hubs to tranquil suburban locales. While they are not immune to health vicissitudes, conscientious stewardship and regular veterinary surveillance can effectively forestall potential maladies and preserve their vitality and contentment. French Bulldogs transcend the realm of mere pets, seamlessly integrating into the fabric of familial life, imparting companionship, affection, and boundless amusement. Their singular personality traits and captivating demeanor continue to captivate the hearts of dog aficionados globally, endowing them with an enduring and ubiquitous appeal.

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Characteristics and Personality Traits of French Bulldogs. (2024, May 21). Retrieved from https://papersowl.com/examples/characteristics-and-personality-traits-of-french-bulldogs/

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PapersOwl.com. (2024). Characteristics and Personality Traits of French Bulldogs . [Online]. Available at: https://papersowl.com/examples/characteristics-and-personality-traits-of-french-bulldogs/ [Accessed: 22-May-2024]

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