Student’s Guide: 14 Essay Types from the Easiest to the Hardest One

09 April 2020

Being the most common type of written assignment, an essay is known by students of all ages. This task is an inevitable part of the educational program. Starting from middle school and all the way to college or university, everyone faces it.

Since this type of task is being assigned to students at all stages of their education, it has a significant influence on one’s final scores. That’s why mastering the art of essay writing is vital for overall academic success. This article is your comprehensive guide, from which you will learn what academic writing is and what are its different types.

What Is an Essay?

According to the general definition, it is a short academic paper that discusses a given topic from a specific point of view. As a rule, the subject is presented from the student’s own angle.

Typically, such papers are short. However, depending on several aspects, such as the subject, type of essay, or teacher’s instructions, the length of the text can vary. The common format for such paper is based on the five-paragraph structure. It consists of an introductory paragraph, three body paragraphs, and a conclusion.

The general purpose of the task can vary depending on its type. For example, some essay types are created to inform readers about the given topics and some are analytical. Others can have a purpose to persuade someone of something.

This type of task is currently a part of every academic program in schools and colleges. Therefore, it is vital that every student could handle it to ensure a high GPA.

14 Essay Types from the Easiest to the Hardest One

Writing this type of academic work is, by no means, a simple matter, which is why many students struggle with such assignments.

Luckily for those who lack time for their homework or simply can’t cope with the task, there are professional writing services. Sites like https://essaypro.com/custom-essay.html can deliver high-quality academic help to anyone in need. However, if you want to hone your skills and cope with the task on your own, this guide will come in handy for distinguishing different types of essays.

Simple:

1) Descriptive

This is probably the easiest type of work. In a nutshell, a descriptive paper is the one that describes something (a person, object, phenomenon, event, etc.) in detail. The author’s goal is to provide a clear description adding vivid details. They need to help readers see, feel, smell, hear, or taste what is described.

As a rule, this task is short, it follows a standard structure, and doesn’t require in-depth research.

2) Narrative

The second easiest type of academic paper is a narrative essay. Its main purpose is to tell a story. Similar to the previous task, it requires using plenty of details in order not to tell but show a story to readers. It is a creative task that most students handle with ease.

3) Process

The next rather simple type of work is a process essay. As you could already understand from the name, its goal is to describe a certain process. The author needs to break down the process of doing something into a set of smaller sequences and describe each step so that readers could do it after reading a paper.

4) Comparison and Contrast

The goal of such a paper is to make either a comparison, contrast, or both between two or more similar or different things. This form of assignment is rather simple as all a student needs to do is to analyze different objects and define what they have in common or what differs them.

5) Cause and Effect

The main purpose of this task is to reveal the interconnection between certain things or actions. A writer needs to explain what caused them and what effect they can have. As a rule, students find this kind of assignment rather simple. However, the level of complexity depends on the object or topic that has to be explained.

Medium Level:

6) Review

This form of assignment requires a student to review a particular piece (usually, a book) and discuss its merits and demerits. Although such papers often follow the standard format and may not be too difficult to write, many students find it challenging. Such an essay requires a solid understanding of the book’s content and a lot of research.

7) Explicatory

Such papers are most often written about novels, poems, and short stories. The purpose of the assignment is to explain a literary piece so that a reader could easily understand it.

8) Critical

A critical essay is another assignment often written on a specific literary piece. The purpose of the paper is to give a thorough evaluation of the chosen piece based on its strong and weak sides.

9) Analytical

When writing an analytical paper, the author has to analyze a specific topic, concept, or a literary piece from different angles, providing supporting arguments. This kind of work requires in-depth research, so it can be quite time-consuming.

10) Rhetorical Analysis

This work is similar to the previous one. However, as a rule, a rhetorical analysis paper is written about a piece of rhetoric or speech and has a purpose to assess it based on the rhetorical strategies and tools that have been used in a piece.

Complex:

11) Definition

The main goal of such work, as you could understand from the name, is to give a clear definition of a concept or idea. What makes it a complicated assignment is that you must have a solid understanding of the concept to be defined. Only that will allow you to create a high-quality definition essay.

12) Expository

This form of work has the goal to explain a complex concept or idea in detail to make readers understand it with ease.

13) Argumentative

An argumentative paper is one of the most time-consuming and challenging types of essays. This type of assignment requires conducting an in-depth research and collecting valid data (arguments) that would support the author’s ideas.

14) Persuasive

Another complicated kind of work is a persuasive paper. Similar to the previous type of paper, it should provide valid arguments to support certain ideas. However, what makes it even more complex is that the author has to use different techniques to persuade the readers of the correctness or incorrectness of certain ideas.

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All Comments

I appreciate your ability to simplify complex concepts into accessible chunks. Well done!

Reply 2023-10-18 20:02:43

Good Literacy is Good Literacy: Improving Reading and Writing

Sometimes some students often say, "Please do my homework" without reading it before. However, extreme reading has strengthened in the classroom: there are still students who read a lot, but at the same time, there are more and more students who have difficulty reading even short texts. The new challenge is creating a reading routine because reading can only be done by reading word for word. Then why do young people read less? Reading competes with many other things for middle school students. For example, if you have hard training at night, it's understandable that reading by yourself is not a good idea. Besides, social media offers direct enjoyment and opportunities to build relationships far more directly than literature. In a text editor, some text can be read in small parts. Many things must be done to strengthen students' interest in reading and lower their reading threshold. The task book should contain reading assignments that can be done in small parts, and there are questions among the elements that can be answered in the previous text. In these assignments, the main task of students is to identify issues raised in the text, which helps them to understand the text better. This eliminates the need to internalize the whole short story, and refinement questions help focus attention on the main aspects of the text. The field of content handled in mother tongue and literature has developed in recent years. Also, text skills have played a central role in teaching. As society becomes more complex, texts become more diverse and more demanding. This is also evident in mother tongue classes: in the past, most pages of content were written by title - now, besides essays, there is a need to master things like criticism, stories, and magazines. Different types of texts must be read consciously to learn how to analyze the features of different kinds of documents and learn how to produce them. The text has also been taken as a starting point for dealing with linguistic problems: parts of the language have dealt with various types of texts. Every teacher should always model new or challenging types of text in class: Schools often have to produce texts that are too self-written and demanding. In class, it might be a good idea first to write a text about the type of text you are learning, such as a report or review. When students are genuinely ripe to write through various activities, it is easier for them to produce independent texts based on text samples. A meaningful reading experience encourages you to continue reading: Textual artists have carefully selected samples of literary texts that are of interest to high school students, from which young people can also draw deeper - for example, to build their worldviews and ethical reflection. The teacher must try to choose texts that are meaningful to students, which, of course, are not always easy and may not work. Above all, it is essential for documents to discover new things through practice and to be able to understand them more deeply and comprehensively. Middle school students are sensitive to whether they accomplish something or achieve. Tips: 1. Make sure you read carefully all the texts you read, so students know what type of text to read. Always read a book, at least the back cover together. 2. Read books together in a short trailer. After each section of the text, the assignment is created, or the text is discussed. 3. Pay attention to text selection. It must be fluent in writing and be interesting for students. Students are clear about whether the text is well written and what it feels like. 4. Give various literary treatments and make sure they also have something new and surprising. For some students writing and reading are the most difficult things to do in their native language so in addition to writing, including a variety of dramatic exercises related to character, plot, or theme. At best, practice brings new meaning and interpretation to the text. Read Also: 5 Communication Tips For Introverts In College 5 Tips On How To Research For An Essay 10 Top-Notch Tools To Improve Your Business Writing Skills

6 Creative Skills You Can Use During Your Essay Writing Process

Creative writing is critical during essay writing. It will let you run your imagination. Most themes are about objective and factual ideas, the way you rely on and deliver them. It involves the way you express the knowledge and understanding of the readers. The important thing is to ensure that there is a connection with the reader’s interest. An essay is a style that anyone can learn and master; you need to understand the basics of writing. Have a standard guideline and know the basic principles. Several creative skills can help in essay writing to make them exciting and original. 6 Creative Skills You Can Use During Your Essay Writing Process: Always Think about your Readers In essay writing, the reader is the most crucial party. You need to know the type of readers you are writing for, and that will ensure that they are interested. The idea is to know your target group and write for them. When writing to a lecturer, ensure that you give the correct answers. Have the accurate information, and when stuck, seek for assignment ideas. If you get a set of questions, ensure you know the right way to answer them. Always ensure you are original in your content. Have a surprise with the way you approach things. Have the correct information that your readers need. Make sure your content is captivating and catchy so that they do not get bored. The bottom line is always ensuring that you keep all your readers engaged. Embrace all the techniques and approaches needed. Better Structure The three-act structure is a device used in writing that helps with modern literature. It will assist when you need to know of the right approach to follow. Before you start writing, ensure you have an outline of what you are going to deliver. You need to understand how to place your introduction, the essay body that has to be in paragraphs, and the conclusion connecting all the other parts. You need to look for at least three reliable references. Know the Basic Grammar Make sure you are aware of all the basic style, punctuation, and grammar. It is an essential part of writing, and it will help the readers to understand your research and appreciate it. Before writing an essay, ensure that you know about all the essential grammar such as subject agreement, pronoun, verb, and sentence structure. Know the standard punctuation; understand the proper use of commas, full stop, and question mark. Know the difference between active and passive voice, hence making the essay tone stronger. Your language should be concise, avoid any transition or unnecessary information in the sentences. Use Correct Vocabulary You need to know what the words you are using mean. It is essential to understand how you use your language in essay writing. The idea is to persuade the other people that you are making an intelligent argument. When you use big words, it does not mean that you are making a relevant point. It will only seem like you are overcompensating your writing. Avoid using words that you are not sure about; when you use obscure words would take away the clarity of the essay. Understand the Argument Make sure you always analyze the evidence. Before writing the essay, have your argument in mind. It is possible to drift from the topic, work hard to avoid such distractions. Be thorough when evaluating all the evidence, and ensure you have significant research as a backup. Have a clear connection to all your topics concerning the arguments. A Better Conclusion You should have a proper conclusion that supports your research. Do not overlook your conclusion; it is the connection with the thesis. A great conclusion will outline the critical evidence of the essay body, the main argument, and the research. A poorly written conclusion can discredit a good essay. Read Also: Write My Research Paper: 5 Sources of Your Inspiration to Capture Major Regulatory Approvals for Cross Border Acquisitions

How Canadian Book Editors Work And Why Every Author Needs One

Authors constantly find themselves in the position of navigating a maze of words as they essay to bring their erudite intentions to life inside the complex atmosphere of the publishing assiduity. Within the environment of this creative trip, the necessary function of book editors shines brilliantly as guiding lights, illuminating paths to polished manuscripts and refined prose. This blog post delves into the significance of enlisting professional editing services and why authors should consider the decision to hire an editor in Canada as an essential step in their publishing journey. From refining language nuances to ensuring narrative coherence, the expertise of book editors plays a pivotal role in elevating manuscripts to their fullest potential. Join us as we explore the multifaceted contributions of book editors in Canada and uncover why every author can benefit from their discerning eye and editorial prowess. Manuscript Quality Improves These specialists are detail-oriented and know the publishing sector well. In addition to their exceptional editing, they advise on plots, character twists, pacing, and story structures. An editor can find ways to improve the textbook, offer changes, and maintain narrative coherence by examining every manuscript detail. They can also provide impartial, formative critique to help authors improve their writing and generate a polished piece. Due to their expertise and dedication to author authenticity, experienced editors are important to the publication process. Development Of Writing Abilities Through Editorial Guidance An educated editor may help authors improve their language, structure, and liar skills by providing valuable perspectives and recommendations. Editors can spot clichés, repetitions, and bad writing and suggest methods to improve the textbook. This is possible because editors have moxies. They can also handle alphabet, punctuation, and syntax issues, making writing clear, concise, and engaging. Working closely with an editor can improve authors' manuscripts and scribbling techniques. This gives them important tasks and fresh methods to improve their writing. Educated editors can help authors improve their writing and make an impact. The Success Of Publishing Is Guaranteed A manuscript's quality can be significantly bettered by the knowledge and experience that book editors retain, which can be set up in plenitude. They play a significant part in furnishing authors with objective feedback and formative review, which assists authors in enriching their ideas, enhancing their storytelling, and polishing their prose. The editors examine the calligraphies with great care, addressing enterprises like inconsistencies in the plot, character development, pacing, and general structure with their attention to detail. They have a good eye for detail, which helps them spot any areas that may bear development, which ultimately results in a final product that's further captivating and unified. In addition to this, book editors are well-versed in the publishing sector and are suitable to keep up with the rearmost request trends and the preferences of compendiums. The fact that they have this information enables them to give helpful advice on how to modify a textbook so that it satisfies the conditions and prospects of the followership that's being targeted. Eyes Of A Professional Capture The Utmost Important Errors When it comes to relating critical flaws inside a document, the value of a professional eye can not be exaggerated. The knowledge that book editors in Canada hold allows them to precisely examine every hand of a manuscript, icing that it's free of any crimes and polished to perfection. They have got high attention to detail, which allows them to identify alphabet, spelling, and punctuation crimes that the author could have missed. Also, editors have a profound appreciation of language and jotting traditions, which enables them to guarantee that the document satisfies the loftiest norms of clarity and consonance through their scrupulous editing. By working together with a competent editor, authors can reduce the liability of making disturbing miscalculations and present their work in the most favorable light possible, enhancing their chances of being successful in the largely competitive publishing request. Objective, Formative Feedback Editors can provide a fresh perspective on manuscripts by using their trained eye and publishing expertise. This helps them identify areas that need editing. This feedback is crucial for authors who want to improve their work and complete it well. Editors point out contradictions, plot gaps, and weak character development to help authors make necessary changes to strengthen the novel. Their objective method ensures authors receive honest and unprejudiced feedback, helping them improve as writers and add more intrigue to their compendiums. For a more refined and poignant novel, editors are crucial. Provide essential plot twists, enhance the rhythm, or refine the language. The Quality Of The Book Is Improved By Attention To Detail A professional book editor in Canada is responsible for further than just checking for faults in syntax and punctuation; they're also responsible for precisely assessing every part of the work to ensure that it's coherent, harmonious, and clear. To give the followership a reading experience that's flawless and intriguing, editors precisely examine the plot to identify any logical holes or contradictions that may exist. They give careful consideration to the creation of characters, making certain that every single person creates an emotional connection with the anthology and makes a significant donation to the narrative. Likewise, editors do a thorough examination of the language and style of the jotting, with the pretensions of refining judgment structures, enhancing readability, and perfecting the overall flow of the narrative. Invest In A Good Editor Canada's experienced editors are essential for authors who want their work to shine. An educated editor takes a fresh, impartial look at the work and offers insightful suggestions to improve it. With their keen eye for detail, they may discover inconsistencies, narrative gaps, and undeveloped sections. Because of their understanding, they ensure the tale is easy to follow, the characters are well-developed, and the language is perfect. A reliable editor also provides constructive feedback and helps the author to improve their work to meet professional standards. A good editor invests in the author's writing progress and success. Because the author and penmanship are invested in. One Last Thought One of the most important factors in determining whether or not a book will be successful in Canada is the part that book editors play. The entire eventuality of a manuscript can be realized with the backing of a competent editor, who can do everything from correcting crimes to furnishing perceptive suggestions and precious perceptivity. The knowledge and experience of a book editor is a commodity that every author, anyhow of their position of experience or capability, may gain from. Eventually, hiring a professional editor is an investment in the quality of one's book as well as the fashionability of the book. That being said, if you're an aspiring author in Canada, you shouldn't underestimate the significance of having a professional eye to help you in bringing your studies to life. Read Also : Argumentative Writing – The Skills You Need To Develop Top 7 Things To Take Into Consideration When Selecting Essay Writing Service 6 Ways to Achieve an Essay Writing Task Successfully