Writing
Essay
An essay is a short prose composition in which a writer explores a subject through their own perspective. Unlike a report (which presents information objectively) or a story (which dramatizes events), an essay filters its subject through a particular mind—interpreting, questioning, and making meaning.
Etymology
The word comes from the French essai, meaning "attempt" or "trial." Michel de Montaigne coined the term in 1580 for his Essais, emphasizing that his writings were experiments in thinking—attempts to understand, not final pronouncements.
Essay Types
| Type | Purpose | Key Feature |
|---|---|---|
| Argumentative | Defends a position | Takes a stance, uses evidence |
| Expository | Explains a concept | Informs objectively |
| Narrative | Tells a story | Personal experience, chronological |
| Descriptive | Creates a picture | Sensory details, imagery |
| Analytical | Examines something | Breaks down into parts |
Essay vs. Article vs. Paper
| Feature | Essay | Article | Paper |
|---|---|---|---|
| Voice | Personal, distinctive | Objective, institutional | Formal, academic |
| Purpose | Explore, interpret | Inform, report | Argue, prove |
| Evidence | Experience, observation | Facts, interviews | Data, citations |
| Structure | Flexible, organic | Formula-driven | Highly structured |
Basic Structure
| Section | Purpose |
|---|---|
| Introduction | Hook reader, provide context, state thesis |
| Body Paragraphs | Present evidence and analysis (one idea per paragraph) |
| Conclusion | Synthesize ideas, reinforce thesis, leave lasting impression |
Key Elements
- Thesis statement — your central claim or argument
- Topic sentences — main idea of each paragraph
- Evidence — facts, quotes, examples that support your points
- Analysis — explanation of why evidence matters
- Transitions — connections between ideas
- Voice — your distinctive perspective on the subject
Common Mistakes
- Treating "essay" as synonym for "assignment" — Not every written assignment is an essay in form
- No clear thesis — Wandering without a central argument
- Summary without analysis — Describing what happened without explaining why it matters
- Missing transitions — Jumping between ideas without connections
An essay is not a container for information—it's a record of a mind at work.
Quick Tips
- Before drafting, ask: What am I trying to figure out? That question drives the essay
- State your thesis clearly at the end of your introduction
- Each body paragraph should make one point that supports your thesis
- Read your essay aloud—if it sounds choppy, add transitions
Go Deeper
Explore the 450-year journey of the word that means "to try"—from Montaigne's château to modern blogs and video essays.