Narrative Essay Guide

Narrative Essay Outline

Last updated on: Feb 9, 2023

How to Write a Narrative Essay Outline - Tips & Examples

By: Nathan D.

Reviewed By: Melisa C.

Published on: Jun 2, 2020

Narrative Essay Outline

A narrative essay is a type of academic essay in which the writer narrates a story. It is the most commonly assigned form of academic writing. Students have to face the narrative essay writing task quite often, so it is essential to know how to handle it. 

A narrative essay is a story, so it's important to know how to write one. The best way to start your outline is by brainstorming ideas.

Who are the characters? What do they want? How does this conflict with their goals and who wins in the end?

There are many different types of essays you can write about, but all will have some sort of conflict. Once you've figured out the basics, be creative! You could explore an event that happened in your life or tell a fictional story.

In this blog, you’ll learn to write an outline for a narrative essay with examples. Start reading!

Narrative Essay Outline

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A  narrative essay  is a type of academic essay in which the writer narrates a story. It is the most commonly assigned form of academic writing. Students have to face the narrative essay writing task quite often, so it is essential to know how to handle it.

Narrative Essay Outline Format

The narrative essay outline follows the standard structure. Like other types of essays, this essay normally follows a typical 5 paragraph essay format. The 5 paragraph outline includes one introduction paragraph, three body paragraphs, and one conclusion paragraph.

However, unlike other essays, the paragraphs of the narrative essay have specifically designated purposes:

1. Introduction Paragraph:  Gives an insight into the story

2. First Body Paragraph:  Discuss the rising action

3. Second Body Paragraph:  Present the climax of the story

4. Third Body Paragraph:  Provide the falling action

5. Conclusion Paragraph:  Discussion of the lesson learned from the story

Paragraph Narrative Essay Outline Template

Let's look at the detailed 5 paragraph narrative essay outline for college students.

How to Write a Narrative Essay Outline?

A narrative essay is all about sharing the stories. Therefore, you need to organize your story into an essay format. As a writer, you are supposed to tell a story from your personal experience and why you are sharing that specific experience. Later, you need to discuss why this story or experience is important to share.

Let's look at how to craft an outline for a narrative essay. Follow the steps in the same sequence, and at the end, you’ll get a perfect outline. The writing process will become less stressful and daunting if you follow the steps given below.

1. Write the Introduction

The introduction paragraph is meant to engage the reader with the story. The first paragraph plays the most crucial role in making an impression on the reader’s mind. It allows you to share your perspective and how it relates to you. The following elements are involved in writing a strong narrative essay introduction.

  • Create a Hook Statement  Draw the reader in with an intriguing and attention-grabbing hook statement. Create a strong hook that makes your reader want to read further. You can use a quote, rhetorical question, or fact to create a persuasive hook statement.
  • Set the Scene:  Give your reader an idea of what is going to happen. Do not tell the whole story; just give a glimpse into it and keep your reader intrigued. Tell the reader how the points of the story relate to you.
  • Define the Thesis Statement:  Finally, tell your reader what your story is all about with the help of a thesis statement. Give a sneak peek of what is about to come but avoid telling the lesson you have learned from the situation yet; just give a hint.

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2. Draft the Body Paragraphs

The main body of a narrative essay is the most important part because it tells the whole story. This is where you state the facts, provide examples, give details, and guide the reader through the plot. According to the five paragraphs essay structure, it has three body paragraphs, but it can depend on the length and word count.

Below elements must be kept in mind while writing the narrative essay body paragraphs:

  • Write Chronologically:  The timelines of a story should be presented in chronological order. Otherwise, the reader will get confused, and it becomes hard for them to understand the story. To keep your paper organized, you should present things in sequential order.
  • Share the Relevant and Vivid Details:  As a narrative essay is all about creating a mood and scene to follow, do that creatively. Set up the story with descriptive and concise language. Provide the reader with the most important details of your story. These details may include the characters, setting, plot, and the onset of the story.
  • Avoid Narration Deviation:  The narrative essay is usually written in the first person unless you share someone else’s story. The third-person narrative only works best when you are telling a story you heard from someone else.

3. Write a Compelling Conclusion

The conclusion paragraph is the final section of the essay where you give some final comments about the story. Summarize your essay and connect your reader back to the story. Follow these steps to write an impressive conclusion.

  • Restate Some Key Details:  Restate the thesis statement and some key details you have shared in the body. It will help you connect your reader with your story.
  • Share the Lesson:  Stress the lesson you have learned from the story and leave the reader with something to think about.
  • Call to Action:  In the end, provide a call to action that convinces the reader to think more about the topic.

Narrative Essay Outline Worksheet

Use the given worksheet below to write a narrative essay with ease.

Narrative Essay Outline Example

Here are some  narrative essay examples  and samples for your convenience. Use these templates and learn to write a good narrative essay easily.

Narrative Essay Outline for Middle School

College Narrative Essay Outline

Personal Narrative Essay Outline Template

Descriptive Narrative Essay Outline

Literacy Narrative Essay Outline

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However, if you still have some concerns about writing a perfect outline, you can contact our essay writers. 5StarEssays.com is a legit and reliable ‘ write my essay for me? ’ service that provides you with highly qualified and professional writers.

You can trust us with all of your academic writing assignments. So waste no more time and place your  order  now!

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Literature, College Essay

Nathan completed his Ph.D. in journalism and has been writing articles for well-respected publications for many years now. His work is carefully researched and insightful, showing a true passion for the written word. Nathan's clients appreciate his expertise, deep understanding of the process, and ability to communicate difficult concepts clearly.

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Narrative Essay

Narrative Essay Outline

Caleb S.

Crafting a Winning Narrative Essay Outline: A Step-by-Step Guide

Narrative Essay Outline

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Are you a student struggling to bring your stories to life in a captivating way? 

Narrative essays provide the perfect canvas for your personal experiences, but without a well-crafted outline, your tale can easily lose its way. 

Don’t worry we are here with the solution!

In this comprehensive guide, we'll walk you through the process of structuring an impactful narrative essay. By the end of this blog, you'll be able to create your own compelling narratives. 

So, let's start on this exciting storytelling adventure together. 

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  • 1. Understanding Narrative Essays
  • 2. Narrative Essay Outline Sample
  • 3. Steps to Write a Narrative Essay Outline 
  • 4. Narrative Essay Outline Format
  • 5. Narrative Essay Examples Outlines

Understanding Narrative Essays

A narrative essay is a short story with a central theme that revolves around it. It's typically told from the perspective of the author, and specific sensory details are included to pique the reader's interest in the story.

Unlike other types of essays , a narrative essay revolves around a central theme or event, making it an engaging and often emotionally charged piece of work.

Elements of a Narrative Essay

Narrative essays typically are composed in the form of a narrative and rely on personal experiences. This format is used in storytelling, as was stated previously. The following are the five components of a narrative essay:

  • Plot: The main event of the story.
  • Character: People involved in your play.
  • Setting: Timeline of the events.
  • Conflict: The challenges the characters face.
  • Theme: The moral of the story

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Narrative Essay Outline Sample

Here is a narrative essay outline template, let’s take a look: 

Steps to Write a Narrative Essay Outline 

Writing a narrative essay is much easier than any other type of essay. It doesn’t follow a set of essay writing rules, and it gives you freedom of expression. You can write an essay that reflects your stories in your own style. 

All you have to do is to follow a typical structure which is consist of 3 essential parts: 

  • Introduction 

Let’s dive into the steps of creating a perfect narrative essay outline:

Step 1: Brainstorming

  • Reflect on Personal Experiences: Think about your life experiences, both significant and everyday moments, that could serve as the basis for a narrative essay.
  • Gather Good Ideas: Jot down key events, emotions, or lessons learned that stand out in your memory.
  • Choose a Central Theme: Identify a central theme or message that you want to convey through your narrative.

Step 2: Selecting a Topic

  • Relevance: Ensure the chosen topic is relevant to the central theme and purpose of your narrative among different types of narrative.
  • Engagement: Select a topic that will gain your readers attention and keep them interested throughout your essay.
  • Significance: Consider the significance of the chosen topic in your life and its potential impact on your audience.

Step 3: Developing a Thesis Statement 

  • Clarity: Create a clear and concise thesis statement that conveys the main message or lesson you want to share.
  • Alignment: Ensure the thesis aligns with the central theme and purpose of your narrative.
  • Guidance: Your thesis statement should guide both your writing process and your readers' understanding of your narrative.

Step 4: Write Introduction

Your introduction should catch the readers’ interest immediately. Here are the three main components of introduction: 

  • Hook: Start with a captivating hook that intrigues your readers. It could be an anecdote, a rhetorical question, or a surprising fact.
  • Scene Setting: Provide background information to set the scene and establish the context for your narrative.
  • Thesis Statement: Present your thesis statement clearly, giving readers a preview of the central message and the journey they are about to embark on.

Step 5: Body Paragraphs

The body is the section where you present your story’s details, share facts and guide readers through the plot. Here are the essential elements that should be included in each body paragraph:

  • Topic Sentence
  • Vivid description
  • Characters involved
  • Chronological order

Let’s discuss these elements briefly: 

  • Vivid Description: A narrative essay is all about setting up a scene. Hence, make sure you provide a vivid description of the event that paints a picture in the readers’ minds. The vivid description will help you take the reader to the actual happening of the event.
  • Dialogues: Usage of dialogues helps you present your story in an effective way. Dialogues give life to the story and support the story’s atmosphere.
  • Characters Involved: The characters are the people acting or behaving in the story. Incorporate all the characters that are involved in your story. Provide their detailed description and what role they have played in your story.
  • Chronological Order: As you are telling a story, it should be in the same order as the actual happening of the event. Start telling your story from the beginning and work through the end. Write your story in a proper sequence to keep your essay organized. 
  • Climax: The climax is the breaking point of the story, and it requires a detailed description. Include all the real emotion that engages the readers’ five senses, i.e. smell, sight, touch, hear, and taste. Don’t exaggerate and stray from the truth and provide the actual and accurate climax.

Step 6: Conclusion Section 

The essay conclusion is the final part, and it provides the final outcome of the story. It bears the same importance as the introduction paragraph. 

The conclusion paragraph should contain the following elements:

  • The moral of the story
  • The lesson that you have learned from the story (if any)
  • A call to action (if required)

Step 7: Transition Sentences

Use transition sentences between each section of your narrative essay to ensure a smooth and logical flow from one point to the next. These sentences help readers navigate through your story without feeling lost or disconnected.

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Narrative Essay Outline Format

Here are general formatting rules for a narrative essay outline: 

  • Organizational Structure: Ensure your outline follows the standard structure of a narrative essay, which includes Introduction, Body, and Conclusion sections.
  • Font and Size: Use a clear and easily readable font such as Times New Roman or Arial, in 12-point size for consistency and readability.
  • Spacing: Double-space your outline. This enhances readability and makes it easier to distinguish different sections.
  • Text Alignment: Align your text to the left. This maintains a neat and organized appearance.
  • Margin Consistency: Keep consistent margins throughout your outline for a professional and well-structured presentation.
  • Formatting Guidelines: Follow any specific formatting guidelines provided by your instructor or institution, which may include APA , MLA , Chicago , or other style requirements.
  • Section Labeling: Number or label each section in your outline to ensure clarity and organization, making it easy for readers to follow the structure of your narrative essay

Narrative Essay Examples Outlines

In this section, we offer a selection of PDF narrative essay outline examples. These samples provide practical templates and inspiration for crafting well-structured narrative essay outlines. 

College Narrative Essay Outline Template

Narrative Essay Outline High School

Narrative Essay Outline Middle School

Narrative Essay Outline Worksheet

5 Paragraph Narrative Essay Outline

Descriptive Narrative Essay Outline

Literacy Narrative Essay Outline

Reflective Narrative Essay Outline

Personal Narrative Essay Outline Examples

Looking for narrative essay samples to spark your inspiration? Dive into our narrative essay examples blog and explore a wide range of narrative essays!

In summary, crafting a strong narrative essay outline is a vital skill for all writers. A well-structured outline is the backbone of your narrative, guiding your writing and captivating your audience.  With the knowledge and step-by-step guide shared here, you can now create a narrative essay outline that is no less than perfect.

But if you need assistance with your narrative essay writing we have got you covered.

MyPerfectWords.com is top-rated essay writing website dedicated to delivering top-notch online writing assistance at highly affordable rates. Our team of professional essay writers excels at creating comprehensive essay outlines and crafting impeccably written essays.

Why wait any longer? Go ahead, place your order, and buy narrative essay today! 

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Detailed Guide on How to Write a Narrative Essay Outline with Tips

  • Post on October 21, 2023
  • By Oliver Jack

Outlining Narative Essay

Are you interested in taking your audience on a journey through your storytelling? Or perhaps you've been assigned a narrative essay and aren't quite sure where to begin? Crafting a compelling narrative essay outline is the key to unlocking your storytelling potential. This blog by WriteEssayToday explains how to create a narrative essay outline , including helpful advice and a real-world example. Here you'll discover:

What is a Narrative Essay?

  • What Should You Do Before Writing Your Outline?
  • How To Structure Your Outline Of Narrative Essay

Tips For A Flawless Narrative Essay Outline

  • Narrative Essay Outline Example And Template

Together, let's create a narrative outline that has a lasting impact

A narrative essay is a brief story with a revolving central idea. You can explore emotions, share personal experiences, and demonstrate your storytelling skills. But how do you get started? Crafting a stellar narrative essay outline is the key to ensuring your narrative flows seamlessly.

What Makes a Narrative Essay Unique

Storytelling is unique, in all forms of presentation. They provide a forum for exchanging insights, tales, and emotions. Unlike informative writing, narrative aims to engage readers in the author’s world. These stories establish a close connection with the viewer by using a first-person point of view and adopting a voice.

What do you need to do before writing your outline?

Before you start planning your story, it’s important to complete a few important steps that will prepare the ground for it. These early actions include:

  • Think about memorable experiences.
  • Consider the mood and characters.
  • Develop character personality and quirks.
  • Imagine and describe vivid situations.
  • Communicate the emotions involved.
  • Plan the structure of your story.
  • Gather the right things.
  • Prioritize fat writing before perfection.

What Makes a Good Narrative Outline? & How to Structure One

Consider your narrative essay outline as the blueprint for your masterpiece. It ensures your story develops logically and keeps your readers interested from beginning to end. Let's get into the elements of a well-crafted narrative essay outline:

Narrative Essay outline Elements

1. Hook Your Audience

This is the first step and perhaps most important one. The introduction is your chance to grab your reader's attention. Engage their curiosity with a captivating hook. You can use a quote, a question, or even a startling fact. Make sure your introduction sets the stage for the story you're about to tell.

2. Setting the Scene – Where and When

Make a background for your story in this section. Talk about a crowded metropolis, a sandy beach, or a dark wilderness. Your readers will experience being present with you. Use familiar materials to give your surroundings life.

3. Introduce the Characters – The Heart of the Tale

Your characters are the heart of your story. Whether you’re on a road trip with your best friend, or a mysterious stranger you meet overseas, present them in a way that makes your readers care about their trip. Create a connection by showcasing their personalities, quirks and emotions.

4. The Climax – The Moment of Truth

The ending is where your story reaches its conclusion. It's a moment that builds to every, "Aha!" or "Uh-oh!" second. Here, enthusiasm and feelings of excitement are at their highest. Make this part memorable by using verbs that have obvious action and description.

5. Conclusion – Wrapping it Up

In conclusion, tie up the loose ends of your narrative. Think about the journey you took the reader on and what you learned or gained from the experience. Leave readers with something to think about, a text or a thought-provoking question.

Keep it Personal and Authentic

Your narrative essay tells your story, so be sure to be yourself. Be genuine, and don't be afraid to express your honest feelings. Your readers will identify with this authenticity, which will strengthen the narrative's impact.

Show, Don't Tell

Show your readers the actions and feelings rather of only reporting the facts. Create rich picture by using descriptive words, metaphors, and similes. Allow your readers to see the narrative from your perspective.

Embrace the Power of Dialogue

Dialogue is a fantastic tool for breathing life into your narrative. It gives the narrative more realism by letting your characters talk for themselves. Use dialogue tags to ensure that the interaction is clear and interesting.

It is sometimes a bit tricky to make your outline. This is why students often seek expert assistance. It is one of the advantages of Using Essay Writing Services that students learn more quickly.

Narrative Essay Template

The final thoughts.

Narrative essays are unique since they are storytellers, emotional experiences, and personal journeys. With a strong narrative essay outline as your guide, you can write a captivating story that grips your audience and leaves a lasting impact. So begin your fictional adventure right now.

And, if you ever need help creating a narrative essay outline, don't hesitate to contact WriteEssayToday . Our expert narrative essay writers are here to help you through the writing process and ensure that your stories stand out. After all, their blog is a showcase for their narrative skills. So, channel your inner storyteller and let your stories shine.

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narrative essay examples outline

How to Write a Narrative Essay Step by Step

narrative essay examples outline

Essay writing comes in various styles, many of which do not demand extensive research. One such style is the narrative essay, which combines personal storytelling with academic reflection. Unlike other essay types, narrative essays are not bound by strict requirements or the need for a bibliography. They feature a more flexible structure, creative language, and a singular focus: to tell a story.

This genre provides a special opportunity for writers to connect with readers on a personal level. By sharing personal experiences and reflections, authors engage their audience emotionally while imparting meaningful messages or lessons. In the sections that follow, our custom term paper writing experts will delve into different aspects of narrative writing, from selecting a topic to structuring your essay effectively.

What Is a Narrative Essay

A narrative essay, as the name suggests, is characterized by the presence of a narrative. Unlike argumentative essays, which present and defend a position, or analytical essays, which dissect another text, narrative essays tell a coherent story. Their goal is to convey a point or impart a lesson through personal experiences. These essays are frequently assigned in high school and for college admissions.

An effective narrative essay generally follows a chronological sequence of events and exhibits three main traits:

  • Centers on one main idea.
  • Utilizes specific details to illustrate that idea.
  • Adheres to a clear sequence of events.

Structurally, a narrative essay resembles short stories, featuring vivid descriptions, plots, characters, and discussions. However, there are key differences. These essays focus on a central theme or argument and conclude decisively, whereas short stories often leave readers with a more abstract moral or message.

A narrative essay is typically written in the first person and follows a standard format with an introduction, body, and conclusion. In contrast, short stories can adopt various formats and may not adhere to the same structured approach.

What is the Purpose of a Narrative Essay

No matter what you write — fiction, non-fiction, memoir, biography — grasping narrative writing helps you connect with your reader, giving them a glimpse of your world. Here, we outline its key purposes:

What is the Purpose of a Narrative Essay

  • Academic Assignments: They fulfill requirements for school assignments, allowing students to demonstrate their understanding and creativity.
  • Self-Reflection: As a key purpose of a narrative essay, this type of writing enables individuals to reflect on personal achievements or significant events, fostering introspection and self-awareness.
  • Professional Endeavors: They are used when applying for jobs or scholarships, showcasing one's communication skills, experiences, and character.
  • Literary Analysis: Narrative storytelling is employed in analyzing literature, providing a medium to explore themes, characters, and storytelling techniques.
  • Cultural Exploration: They facilitate the exploration of different cultures, allowing individuals to share insights and experiences from diverse perspectives.
  • Creative Expression: These essays offer a means of expressing oneself creatively, weaving personal narratives into compelling stories.
  • Communication of Messages: Through storytelling, narrative writing conveys messages or lessons, engaging readers and imparting wisdom or insights.
  • Engagement: Above all, these essays connect with the audience on a personal level, fostering empathy, understanding, and emotional resonance.

Meanwhile, if you’re willing to describe your life in greater depth, our guide on how to write an autobiography might be just what you need!

How to Write a Narrative Essay in 5 Steps

Writing a narrative essay is a unique process compared to other types of school essays. Rather than analyzing topics or defending a position, it focuses on sharing personal experiences through storytelling. By following a few straightforward steps, you can transform your ideas into an engaging narrative.

How to Write a Narrative Essay in 5 Steps

Step 1: Start with a Topic Selection

When crafting a narrative essay, begin by selecting a topic that either relates to your personal experiences or aligns with a given prompt. If a prompt is provided, consider its requirements and brainstorm ideas that fit within its scope.

As you brainstorm, jot down key moments or points you want to include in your essay. Evaluate how each point will fit into the overall structure of your narrative and ensure it adheres to any word count limits.

Think about the tone and style you wish to adopt. Will your essay be reflective, humorous, or something else? Consider incorporating specific stylistic elements, such as repeated phrases or cliffhanger endings, to enhance your storytelling and engage your reader.

Remain flexible throughout this process. As you explore different ideas, be open to tweaking your topic, tone, and style to better suit your narrative.

For more inspiration and to skip the brainstorming phase, check out a ready-made Narrative Essay Topic list!

Step 2: Make a Clear Outline

Once you have your topic, it's time to draft your narrative essay outline. This outline serves as a blueprint, guiding you in crafting a coherent and engaging story. Start by pinpointing the main points you wish to address, such as pivotal moments or insights gained, and allocate each to a separate paragraph to maintain a clear sequence.

Your outline should help you structure the flow of your narrative, planning out the sequence of events and the level of detail to include. For example, if your essay is about a memorable trip, your outline might start with a paragraph setting the scene, followed by paragraphs describing key experiences and interactions, and concluding with reflections on how the trip impacted you.

When outlining your conclusion, think about how to effectively wrap up your story by summarizing the main events and the significance they hold. For a more systematic approach, make sure to check out how to write an essay conclusion .

Step 3: Write Your Narrative Essay

Using your outline as a guide, now, it's time to start writing a narrative essay.  Remember that narrative essays provide you with a creative outlet, so feel free to break away from the constraints of traditional academic writing styles. Captivating the reader and giving your narrative life should be your main goals.

Tip 💡 Use first-person : Infuse your essay with personal authenticity and engagement by embracing pronouns like 'I' and 'me'.

Tip 💡 Employ storytelling techniques : Draw upon the techniques employed in fiction and creative nonfiction, such as dialogue and symbolism, to enrich your narrative and captivate your audience.

Tip 💡 Demonstrate, don't merely state : Instead of blandly presenting facts, immerse your reader in your narrative by employing vivid descriptions and sensory details.

Tip 💡 Remain authentic: Preserve the integrity of your voice and experiences. Candidly share your thoughts and emotions to ensure your narrative essay resonates as genuine and relatable.

Step 4: Don't Forget to Revise

After completing your initial draft, it's essential to revise and polish your essay. Begin by taking a break to refresh your perspective before returning with a clear mind - this is one of the best tips for writing a narrative essay!

When revisiting your essay, carefully review it to ensure logical coherence and flow. Address any inconsistencies or narrative gaps, refining your essay for improved clarity. Pay attention to elements such as tense, point of view, and narrative voice throughout.

Step 5: Proofread Your Writing

Now that you understand how to end a narrative essay, don’t forget to dedicate time to meticulous proofreading to catch any lingering errors or typos. Pay close attention to formatting and citation style, if applicable.

Sharing your essay with trusted individuals such as friends, family, or educators can provide valuable feedback and fresh insights. Incorporate the feedback received, along with your own observations from the revision process, to strengthen the impact and effectiveness of your essay. 

Narrative Essay Topics: The List 

Let's go back to the topics and give you some handy, ready-made options. Sure, you can think of ideas on your own, but we can lend a hand with these suggestions before you commit to the writing process.

  • Reflecting on earning my first degree: a pivotal milestone in my life.
  • The most awful dish I’ve ever tasted: my unforgettable tale.
  • How a personal experience changed my attitudes and actions.
  • The worst exam experience I’ve ever had: a harrowing tale.
  • Encountering something eerie: a chilling moment in my life.
  • Fond memories of summer vacations during my childhood.
  • The story of a heroic act that saved someone's life.
  • My top tunes: songs that resonate deeply with me.
  • The origins and meanings of my nicknames.
  • The superpower I wish I had and why.
  • A lecture that profoundly changed my perspective.
  • Does my school prioritize digital skills for students?
  • Great summer reads for book lovers: my top suggestions.
  • The music genres and melodies that reflect my tastes and emotions.
  • Passions and interests that drive my aspirations.
  • My ultimate guide to spending Sundays efficiently.
  • Questions and curiosities about how the world works.
  • Values and principles I'd risk my life for.
  • How much do I follow global current events?
  • Steps I’ve taken to achieve my dream job.

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Order now and let our narrative essay writer turn your experiences into a captivating and unforgettable tale

Narrative Essay Examples

For inspiration on your upcoming essay, check out these excellent samples from our essay writer . Use them as a guide to help craft your own story, ensuring that your unique voice and experiences come through in your work.

If sharing your personal stories is not your cup of tea, you can buy essays online from our expert writers, who will customize the paper to your particular writing style and tone.

Final Recap

Now that you understand what makes a narrative essay tick, you're probably itching to write your own standout piece. Let our skilled research paper writing service lend you a hand! We're here to offer personalized services tailored to your needs. By providing value with flexible pricing and quick turnaround times, we'll bring your narrative to life together!

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What Is A Narrative Essay?

How to start a narrative essay, how to write a good narrative essay.

Daniel Parker

Daniel Parker

is a seasoned educational writer focusing on scholarship guidance, research papers, and various forms of academic essays including reflective and narrative essays. His expertise also extends to detailed case studies. A scholar with a background in English Literature and Education, Daniel’s work on EssayPro blog aims to support students in achieving academic excellence and securing scholarships. His hobbies include reading classic literature and participating in academic forums.

narrative essay examples outline

is an expert in nursing and healthcare, with a strong background in history, law, and literature. Holding advanced degrees in nursing and public health, his analytical approach and comprehensive knowledge help students navigate complex topics. On EssayPro blog, Adam provides insightful articles on everything from historical analysis to the intricacies of healthcare policies. In his downtime, he enjoys historical documentaries and volunteering at local clinics.

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Table of Contents

Narrative essay outline toolkit, how to write an outline for an informative essay, once you are done with these steps, this is what your structure will look like, introduction.

  • The dense, vibrant Amazon Rainforest was calling my name, promising an adventure of a lifetime
  • Describe the allure of the Amazon and your decision to embark on this journey

My trek through the Amazon Rainforest was a transformative experience that reshaped my perspective on nature and life.

Preparing for the Trek

  • Share your initial excitement and anticipation, and discuss the preparations, including research, vaccinations, and physical training.
  • Describe the moment of departure and the first steps into the rainforest.

Immersion in the Amazon's Natural Beauty

  • Paint a vivid picture of the rainforest's lush beauty and diverse flora and fauna
  • Reflect on how the rainforest's biodiversity impacted your perspective

Transformation and Personal Growth

  • Reflect on how the journey changed you, both physically and emotionally
  • Share how the trek through the Amazon reshaped your perspective on life and its priorities
  • Reiterate the thesis statement, emphasizing the transformative nature of your Amazon adventure
  • Conclude with a reflection on the lasting impact of this life-altering journey and how it continues to shape your life

This is what your outline will look like

Firstly, the essay will elaborate on my initial excitement and preparations for the trek. After that, the essay will move on to my experience of the Amazon forest by highlighting its diverse flora and fauna, and how that impacted my perspective. Lastly, the essay will highlight my personal growth by emphasizing changes both emotionally and physically.

1. Identify the topic

The initial step in crafting an outline for a narrative essay is to pinpoint the central theme around which your story will revolve. Essentially, you need to define what your essay will be about, offering readers a clear glimpse into the narrative's core.

If you are writing an essay on your self-growth through an adventure, your topic can be “My Trek through the Amazon Rainforest”

2. Define the objective

Once you've established your topic, the subsequent step involves clarifying the purpose of your narrative essay. The objective here is to meld conventional storytelling techniques, like theme, conflict, and irony, into a uniquely personal narrative that offers readers insight into your character and experiences.

If your objective is to narrate and tell a story, you can state, “The aim of the essay is to provide an insight into my trip to Amazon, and how it transformed my perspective on nature and life”

3. Craft the thesis

This section of your outline is dedicated to fashioning the central argument, or thesis statement , for your narrative essay. In a narrative essay, the thesis statement should summarize the ultimate lesson or moral of your story.

Continuing the example, your thesis statement for the topic could be, “My trek through the Amazon Rainforest was a transformative experience that reshaped my perspective on nature and life.”

4. Main points

Now, it's time to chart the course for your essay by outlining the key components. Narrative text structure encompasses story elements such as setting, characters, conflict, plot (including rising action, climax, falling action), resolution, and the lessons learned.

5. Sub-points

After introducing the main points of your narrative essay, the next step involves delving into each of these points, substantiated by relevant examples. In this section, you will explicitly outline the sub-points to be discussed and specify the examples that will reinforce your arguments.

  • Share how the trek through the Amazon reshaped your perspective on life and its priorities.

All will be explained with examples and backed with statistical data.

6. Evidence and citations

While narrative essays are personal in nature, it's essential to cite information, examples, quotes, and data that support your arguments. This adds credibility to your narrative and connects it to a broader context.

You can cite examples of other people who had such experiences. Also, you support your learning by relating it to a research paper on self-growth and development

7. Introduction and hook

A hook and introduction serves the purpose of capturing the reader's attention and drawing them into your narrative. A personal story or anecdote can be a powerful hook for a narrative essay, as it engages readers on a personal level.

You can start the introduction with an anecdote to create a hook like “The dense, vibrant Amazon Rainforest was calling my name, promising an adventure of a lifetime”. Then you can continue to explain the journey as a whole by highlighting your decision to embark on the journey, and the feels of the adventure itself.

8. Conclusion

After you've presented your key points, it's time to conclude your narrative essay. In this section, you'll summarize the main ideas by briefly revisiting the events or insights from your journey. You can also reflect deeply on what you've learned or observed.

In the conclusion, you will Reiterate the thesis statement, emphasizing the transformative nature of your Amazon adventure, and then summarize key points you made in the essay.

9. Transitions

Transition words play a crucial role in ensuring the seamless flow of your writing, facilitating smooth transitions between sentences, paragraphs, and topics. Timeline transitions are usually used in a narrative essay, that are able to convey a series of events in a certain order.

In your narrative essay, you can use words like “meanwhile”, and “subsequently”, etc. to transition from a concept, idea, or sentence to another.

10. Refine and review

With your outline now complete, take a moment to revisit it, ensuring it maintains logical coherence and comprehensiveness. Make any necessary revisions as you review, ensuring that each point flows logically, and that you've included all the necessary information without introducing extraneous details.

Finally, during the review, you will need to ensure that each point flows logically and you have included all the necessary information and didn’t add any extra points.

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The Ultimate Narrative Essay Guide for Beginners

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A narrative essay tells a story in chronological order, with an introduction that introduces the characters and sets the scene. Then a series of events leads to a climax or turning point, and finally a resolution or reflection on the experience.

Speaking of which, are you in sixes and sevens about narrative essays? Don’t worry this ultimate expert guide will wipe out all your doubts. So let’s get started.

Table of Contents

Everything You Need to Know About Narrative Essay

What is a narrative essay.

When you go through a narrative essay definition, you would know that a narrative essay purpose is to tell a story. It’s all about sharing an experience or event and is different from other types of essays because it’s more focused on how the event made you feel or what you learned from it, rather than just presenting facts or an argument. Let’s explore more details on this interesting write-up and get to know how to write a narrative essay.

Elements of a Narrative Essay

Here’s a breakdown of the key elements of a narrative essay:

A narrative essay has a beginning, middle, and end. It builds up tension and excitement and then wraps things up in a neat package.

Real people, including the writer, often feature in personal narratives. Details of the characters and their thoughts, feelings, and actions can help readers to relate to the tale.

It’s really important to know when and where something happened so we can get a good idea of the context. Going into detail about what it looks like helps the reader to really feel like they’re part of the story.

Conflict or Challenge 

A story in a narrative essay usually involves some kind of conflict or challenge that moves the plot along. It could be something inside the character, like a personal battle, or something from outside, like an issue they have to face in the world.

Theme or Message

A narrative essay isn’t just about recounting an event – it’s about showing the impact it had on you and what you took away from it. It’s an opportunity to share your thoughts and feelings about the experience, and how it changed your outlook.

Emotional Impact

The author is trying to make the story they’re telling relatable, engaging, and memorable by using language and storytelling to evoke feelings in whoever’s reading it.

Narrative essays let writers have a blast telling stories about their own lives. It’s an opportunity to share insights and impart wisdom, or just have some fun with the reader. Descriptive language, sensory details, dialogue, and a great narrative voice are all essentials for making the story come alive.

The Purpose of a Narrative Essay

A narrative essay is more than just a story – it’s a way to share a meaningful, engaging, and relatable experience with the reader. Includes:

Sharing Personal Experience

Narrative essays are a great way for writers to share their personal experiences, feelings, thoughts, and reflections. It’s an opportunity to connect with readers and make them feel something.

Entertainment and Engagement

The essay attempts to keep the reader interested by using descriptive language, storytelling elements, and a powerful voice. It attempts to pull them in and make them feel involved by creating suspense, mystery, or an emotional connection.

Conveying a Message or Insight

Narrative essays are more than just a story – they aim to teach you something. They usually have a moral lesson, a new understanding, or a realization about life that the author gained from the experience.

Building Empathy and Understanding

By telling their stories, people can give others insight into different perspectives, feelings, and situations. Sharing these tales can create compassion in the reader and help broaden their knowledge of different life experiences.

Inspiration and Motivation

Stories about personal struggles, successes, and transformations can be really encouraging to people who are going through similar situations. It can provide them with hope and guidance, and let them know that they’re not alone.

Reflecting on Life’s Significance

These essays usually make you think about the importance of certain moments in life or the impact of certain experiences. They make you look deep within yourself and ponder on the things you learned or how you changed because of those events.

Demonstrating Writing Skills

Coming up with a gripping narrative essay takes serious writing chops, like vivid descriptions, powerful language, timing, and organization. It’s an opportunity for writers to show off their story-telling abilities.

Preserving Personal History

Sometimes narrative essays are used to record experiences and special moments that have an emotional resonance. They can be used to preserve individual memories or for future generations to look back on.

Cultural and Societal Exploration

Personal stories can look at cultural or social aspects, giving us an insight into customs, opinions, or social interactions seen through someone’s own experience.

Format of a Narrative Essay

Narrative essays are quite flexible in terms of format, which allows the writer to tell a story in a creative and compelling way. Here’s a quick breakdown of the narrative essay format, along with some examples:

Introduction

Set the scene and introduce the story.

Engage the reader and establish the tone of the narrative.

Hook: Start with a captivating opening line to grab the reader’s attention. For instance:

Example:  “The scorching sun beat down on us as we trekked through the desert, our water supply dwindling.”

Background Information: Provide necessary context or background without giving away the entire story.

Example:  “It was the summer of 2015 when I embarked on a life-changing journey to…”

Thesis Statement or Narrative Purpose

Present the main idea or the central message of the essay.

Offer a glimpse of what the reader can expect from the narrative.

Thesis Statement: This isn’t as rigid as in other essays but can be a sentence summarizing the essence of the story.

Example:  “Little did I know, that seemingly ordinary hike would teach me invaluable lessons about resilience and friendship.”

Body Paragraphs

Present the sequence of events in chronological order.

Develop characters, setting, conflict, and resolution.

Story Progression : Describe events in the order they occurred, focusing on details that evoke emotions and create vivid imagery.

Example : Detail the trek through the desert, the challenges faced, interactions with fellow hikers, and the pivotal moments.

Character Development : Introduce characters and their roles in the story. Show their emotions, thoughts, and actions.

Example : Describe how each character reacted to the dwindling water supply and supported each other through adversity.

Dialogue and Interactions : Use dialogue to bring the story to life and reveal character personalities.

Example : “Sarah handed me her last bottle of water, saying, ‘We’re in this together.'”

Reach the peak of the story, the moment of highest tension or significance.

Turning Point: Highlight the most crucial moment or realization in the narrative.

Example:  “As the sun dipped below the horizon and hope seemed lost, a distant sound caught our attention—the rescue team’s helicopters.”

Provide closure to the story.

Reflect on the significance of the experience and its impact.

Reflection : Summarize the key lessons learned or insights gained from the experience.

Example : “That hike taught me the true meaning of resilience and the invaluable support of friendship in challenging times.”

Closing Thought : End with a memorable line that reinforces the narrative’s message or leaves a lasting impression.

Example : “As we boarded the helicopters, I knew this adventure would forever be etched in my heart.”

Example Summary:

Imagine a narrative about surviving a challenging hike through the desert, emphasizing the bonds formed and lessons learned. The narrative essay structure might look like starting with an engaging scene, narrating the hardships faced, showcasing the characters’ resilience, and culminating in a powerful realization about friendship and endurance.

Different Types of Narrative Essays

There are a bunch of different types of narrative essays – each one focuses on different elements of storytelling and has its own purpose. Here’s a breakdown of the narrative essay types and what they mean.

Personal Narrative

Description : Tells a personal story or experience from the writer’s life.

Purpose: Reflects on personal growth, lessons learned, or significant moments.

Example of Narrative Essay Types:

Topic : “The Day I Conquered My Fear of Public Speaking”

Focus: Details the experience, emotions, and eventual triumph over a fear of public speaking during a pivotal event.

Descriptive Narrative

Description : Emphasizes vivid details and sensory imagery.

Purpose : Creates a sensory experience, painting a vivid picture for the reader.

Topic : “A Walk Through the Enchanted Forest”

Focus : Paints a detailed picture of the sights, sounds, smells, and feelings experienced during a walk through a mystical forest.

Autobiographical Narrative

Description: Chronicles significant events or moments from the writer’s life.

Purpose: Provides insights into the writer’s life, experiences, and growth.

Topic: “Lessons from My Childhood: How My Grandmother Shaped Who I Am”

Focus: Explores pivotal moments and lessons learned from interactions with a significant family member.

Experiential Narrative

Description: Relays experiences beyond the writer’s personal life.

Purpose: Shares experiences, travels, or events from a broader perspective.

Topic: “Volunteering in a Remote Village: A Journey of Empathy”

Focus: Chronicles the writer’s volunteering experience, highlighting interactions with a community and personal growth.

Literary Narrative

Description: Incorporates literary elements like symbolism, allegory, or thematic explorations.

Purpose: Uses storytelling for deeper explorations of themes or concepts.

Topic: “The Symbolism of the Red Door: A Journey Through Change”

Focus: Uses a red door as a symbol, exploring its significance in the narrator’s life and the theme of transition.

Historical Narrative

Description: Recounts historical events or periods through a personal lens.

Purpose: Presents history through personal experiences or perspectives.

Topic: “A Grandfather’s Tales: Living Through the Great Depression”

Focus: Shares personal stories from a family member who lived through a historical era, offering insights into that period.

Digital or Multimedia Narrative

Description: Incorporates multimedia elements like images, videos, or audio to tell a story.

Purpose: Explores storytelling through various digital platforms or formats.

Topic: “A Travel Diary: Exploring Europe Through Vlogs”

Focus: Combines video clips, photos, and personal narration to document a travel experience.

How to Choose a Topic for Your Narrative Essay?

Selecting a compelling topic for your narrative essay is crucial as it sets the stage for your storytelling. Choosing a boring topic is one of the narrative essay mistakes to avoid . Here’s a detailed guide on how to choose the right topic:

Reflect on Personal Experiences

  • Significant Moments:

Moments that had a profound impact on your life or shaped your perspective.

Example: A moment of triumph, overcoming a fear, a life-changing decision, or an unforgettable experience.

  • Emotional Resonance:

Events that evoke strong emotions or feelings.

Example: Joy, fear, sadness, excitement, or moments of realization.

  • Lessons Learned:

Experiences that taught you valuable lessons or brought about personal growth.

Example: Challenges that led to personal development, shifts in mindset, or newfound insights.

Explore Unique Perspectives

  • Uncommon Experiences:

Unique or unconventional experiences that might captivate the reader’s interest.

Example: Unusual travels, interactions with different cultures, or uncommon hobbies.

  • Different Points of View:

Stories from others’ perspectives that impacted you deeply.

Example: A family member’s story, a friend’s experience, or a historical event from a personal lens.

Focus on Specific Themes or Concepts

  • Themes or Concepts of Interest:

Themes or ideas you want to explore through storytelling.

Example: Friendship, resilience, identity, cultural diversity, or personal transformation.

  • Symbolism or Metaphor:

Using symbols or metaphors as the core of your narrative.

Example: Exploring the symbolism of an object or a place in relation to a broader theme.

Consider Your Audience and Purpose

  • Relevance to Your Audience:

Topics that resonate with your audience’s interests or experiences.

Example: Choose a relatable theme or experience that your readers might connect with emotionally.

  • Impact or Message:

What message or insight do you want to convey through your story?

Example: Choose a topic that aligns with the message or lesson you aim to impart to your readers.

Brainstorm and Evaluate Ideas

  • Free Writing or Mind Mapping:

Process: Write down all potential ideas without filtering. Mind maps or free-writing exercises can help generate diverse ideas.

  • Evaluate Feasibility:

The depth of the story, the availability of vivid details, and your personal connection to the topic.

Imagine you’re considering topics for a narrative essay. You reflect on your experiences and decide to explore the topic of “Overcoming Stage Fright: How a School Play Changed My Perspective.” This topic resonates because it involves a significant challenge you faced and the personal growth it brought about.

Narrative Essay Topics

50 easy narrative essay topics.

  • Learning to Ride a Bike
  • My First Day of School
  • A Surprise Birthday Party
  • The Day I Got Lost
  • Visiting a Haunted House
  • An Encounter with a Wild Animal
  • My Favorite Childhood Toy
  • The Best Vacation I Ever Had
  • An Unforgettable Family Gathering
  • Conquering a Fear of Heights
  • A Special Gift I Received
  • Moving to a New City
  • The Most Memorable Meal
  • Getting Caught in a Rainstorm
  • An Act of Kindness I Witnessed
  • The First Time I Cooked a Meal
  • My Experience with a New Hobby
  • The Day I Met My Best Friend
  • A Hike in the Mountains
  • Learning a New Language
  • An Embarrassing Moment
  • Dealing with a Bully
  • My First Job Interview
  • A Sporting Event I Attended
  • The Scariest Dream I Had
  • Helping a Stranger
  • The Joy of Achieving a Goal
  • A Road Trip Adventure
  • Overcoming a Personal Challenge
  • The Significance of a Family Tradition
  • An Unusual Pet I Owned
  • A Misunderstanding with a Friend
  • Exploring an Abandoned Building
  • My Favorite Book and Why
  • The Impact of a Role Model
  • A Cultural Celebration I Participated In
  • A Valuable Lesson from a Teacher
  • A Trip to the Zoo
  • An Unplanned Adventure
  • Volunteering Experience
  • A Moment of Forgiveness
  • A Decision I Regretted
  • A Special Talent I Have
  • The Importance of Family Traditions
  • The Thrill of Performing on Stage
  • A Moment of Sudden Inspiration
  • The Meaning of Home
  • Learning to Play a Musical Instrument
  • A Childhood Memory at the Park
  • Witnessing a Beautiful Sunset

Narrative Essay Topics for College Students

  • Discovering a New Passion
  • Overcoming Academic Challenges
  • Navigating Cultural Differences
  • Embracing Independence: Moving Away from Home
  • Exploring Career Aspirations
  • Coping with Stress in College
  • The Impact of a Mentor in My Life
  • Balancing Work and Studies
  • Facing a Fear of Public Speaking
  • Exploring a Semester Abroad
  • The Evolution of My Study Habits
  • Volunteering Experience That Changed My Perspective
  • The Role of Technology in Education
  • Finding Balance: Social Life vs. Academics
  • Learning a New Skill Outside the Classroom
  • Reflecting on Freshman Year Challenges
  • The Joys and Struggles of Group Projects
  • My Experience with Internship or Work Placement
  • Challenges of Time Management in College
  • Redefining Success Beyond Grades
  • The Influence of Literature on My Thinking
  • The Impact of Social Media on College Life
  • Overcoming Procrastination
  • Lessons from a Leadership Role
  • Exploring Diversity on Campus
  • Exploring Passion for Environmental Conservation
  • An Eye-Opening Course That Changed My Perspective
  • Living with Roommates: Challenges and Lessons
  • The Significance of Extracurricular Activities
  • The Influence of a Professor on My Academic Journey
  • Discussing Mental Health in College
  • The Evolution of My Career Goals
  • Confronting Personal Biases Through Education
  • The Experience of Attending a Conference or Symposium
  • Challenges Faced by Non-Native English Speakers in College
  • The Impact of Traveling During Breaks
  • Exploring Identity: Cultural or Personal
  • The Impact of Music or Art on My Life
  • Addressing Diversity in the Classroom
  • Exploring Entrepreneurial Ambitions
  • My Experience with Research Projects
  • Overcoming Impostor Syndrome in College
  • The Importance of Networking in College
  • Finding Resilience During Tough Times
  • The Impact of Global Issues on Local Perspectives
  • The Influence of Family Expectations on Education
  • Lessons from a Part-Time Job
  • Exploring the College Sports Culture
  • The Role of Technology in Modern Education
  • The Journey of Self-Discovery Through Education

Narrative Essay Comparison

Narrative essay vs. descriptive essay.

Here’s our first narrative essay comparison! While both narrative and descriptive essays focus on vividly portraying a subject or an event, they differ in their primary objectives and approaches. Now, let’s delve into the nuances of comparison on narrative essays.

Narrative Essay:

Storytelling: Focuses on narrating a personal experience or event.

Chronological Order: Follows a structured timeline of events to tell a story.

Message or Lesson: Often includes a central message, moral, or lesson learned from the experience.

Engagement: Aims to captivate the reader through a compelling storyline and character development.

First-Person Perspective: Typically narrated from the writer’s point of view, using “I” and expressing personal emotions and thoughts.

Plot Development: Emphasizes a plot with a beginning, middle, climax, and resolution.

Character Development: Focuses on describing characters, their interactions, emotions, and growth.

Conflict or Challenge: Usually involves a central conflict or challenge that drives the narrative forward.

Dialogue: Incorporates conversations to bring characters and their interactions to life.

Reflection: Concludes with reflection or insight gained from the experience.

Descriptive Essay:

Vivid Description: Aims to vividly depict a person, place, object, or event.

Imagery and Details: Focuses on sensory details to create a vivid image in the reader’s mind.

Emotion through Description: Uses descriptive language to evoke emotions and engage the reader’s senses.

Painting a Picture: Creates a sensory-rich description allowing the reader to visualize the subject.

Imagery and Sensory Details: Focuses on providing rich sensory descriptions, using vivid language and adjectives.

Point of Focus: Concentrates on describing a specific subject or scene in detail.

Spatial Organization: Often employs spatial organization to describe from one area or aspect to another.

Objective Observations: Typically avoids the use of personal opinions or emotions; instead, the focus remains on providing a detailed and objective description.

Comparison:

Focus: Narrative essays emphasize storytelling, while descriptive essays focus on vividly describing a subject or scene.

Perspective: Narrative essays are often written from a first-person perspective, while descriptive essays may use a more objective viewpoint.

Purpose: Narrative essays aim to convey a message or lesson through a story, while descriptive essays aim to paint a detailed picture for the reader without necessarily conveying a specific message.

Narrative Essay vs. Argumentative Essay

The narrative essay and the argumentative essay serve distinct purposes and employ different approaches:

Engagement and Emotion: Aims to captivate the reader through a compelling story.

Reflective: Often includes reflection on the significance of the experience or lessons learned.

First-Person Perspective: Typically narrated from the writer’s point of view, sharing personal emotions and thoughts.

Plot Development: Emphasizes a storyline with a beginning, middle, climax, and resolution.

Message or Lesson: Conveys a central message, moral, or insight derived from the experience.

Argumentative Essay:

Persuasion and Argumentation: Aims to persuade the reader to adopt the writer’s viewpoint on a specific topic.

Logical Reasoning: Presents evidence, facts, and reasoning to support a particular argument or stance.

Debate and Counterarguments: Acknowledge opposing views and counter them with evidence and reasoning.

Thesis Statement: Includes a clear thesis statement that outlines the writer’s position on the topic.

Thesis and Evidence: Starts with a strong thesis statement and supports it with factual evidence, statistics, expert opinions, or logical reasoning.

Counterarguments: Addresses opposing viewpoints and provides rebuttals with evidence.

Logical Structure: Follows a logical structure with an introduction, body paragraphs presenting arguments and evidence, and a conclusion reaffirming the thesis.

Formal Language: Uses formal language and avoids personal anecdotes or emotional appeals.

Objective: Argumentative essays focus on presenting a logical argument supported by evidence, while narrative essays prioritize storytelling and personal reflection.

Purpose: Argumentative essays aim to persuade and convince the reader of a particular viewpoint, while narrative essays aim to engage, entertain, and share personal experiences.

Structure: Narrative essays follow a storytelling structure with character development and plot, while argumentative essays follow a more formal, structured approach with logical arguments and evidence.

In essence, while both essays involve writing and presenting information, the narrative essay focuses on sharing a personal experience, whereas the argumentative essay aims to persuade the audience by presenting a well-supported argument.

Narrative Essay vs. Personal Essay

While there can be an overlap between narrative and personal essays, they have distinctive characteristics:

Storytelling: Emphasizes recounting a specific experience or event in a structured narrative form.

Engagement through Story: Aims to engage the reader through a compelling story with characters, plot, and a central theme or message.

Reflective: Often includes reflection on the significance of the experience and the lessons learned.

First-Person Perspective: Typically narrated from the writer’s viewpoint, expressing personal emotions and thoughts.

Plot Development: Focuses on developing a storyline with a clear beginning, middle, climax, and resolution.

Character Development: Includes descriptions of characters, their interactions, emotions, and growth.

Central Message: Conveys a central message, moral, or insight derived from the experience.

Personal Essay:

Exploration of Ideas or Themes: Explores personal ideas, opinions, or reflections on a particular topic or subject.

Expression of Thoughts and Opinions: Expresses the writer’s thoughts, feelings, and perspectives on a specific subject matter.

Reflection and Introspection: Often involves self-reflection and introspection on personal experiences, beliefs, or values.

Varied Structure and Content: Can encompass various forms, including memoirs, personal anecdotes, or reflections on life experiences.

Flexibility in Structure: Allows for diverse structures and forms based on the writer’s intent, which could be narrative-like or more reflective.

Theme-Centric Writing: Focuses on exploring a central theme or idea, with personal anecdotes or experiences supporting and illustrating the theme.

Expressive Language: Utilizes descriptive and expressive language to convey personal perspectives, emotions, and opinions.

Focus: Narrative essays primarily focus on storytelling through a structured narrative, while personal essays encompass a broader range of personal expression, which can include storytelling but isn’t limited to it.

Structure: Narrative essays have a more structured plot development with characters and a clear sequence of events, while personal essays might adopt various structures, focusing more on personal reflection, ideas, or themes.

Intent: While both involve personal experiences, narrative essays emphasize telling a story with a message or lesson learned, while personal essays aim to explore personal thoughts, feelings, or opinions on a broader range of topics or themes.

5 Easy Steps for Writing a Narrative Essay

A narrative essay is more than just telling a story. It’s also meant to engage the reader, get them thinking, and leave a lasting impact. Whether it’s to amuse, motivate, teach, or reflect, these essays are a great way to communicate with your audience. This interesting narrative essay guide was all about letting you understand the narrative essay, its importance, and how can you write one.

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Narrative Essay Writing

Narrative Essay Outline

Dorothy M.

How to Write a Narrative Essay Outline?

Published on: Jul 2, 2019

Last updated on: Jan 20, 2023

Narrative Essay Outline

On This Page On This Page

A narrative essay is the simplest and the most exciting type of essay that lets you share your story. It uses the ethos, pathos, and logos to help the reader understand the story. Similar to other types of essays, it has a beginning, a middle, and an end.

To make narrative writing more interesting and simpler, craft a good outline. Once you have an outline template in hand, you can easily organize your story.

Learn to craft a perfect narrative essay outline from this blog.

What is a Narrative Essay?

A narrative essay is like a short story that has a central point around which the story revolves. It is told from a definite point of view, usually, the writers. So specific sensory details are provided to get the reader involved in the sequence of the story.

It is like a  descriptive essay  and  expository essay , where the writer informs the reader about a particular event. It offers writers a chance to think and write about themselves.

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Elements of a Narrative Essay

Narrative essays rely on personal experiences and are written in the form of a story. When the writer uses this technique, he uses the convention of storytelling. The five elements of a narrative essay are:

  • Plot:  The main event happened in your story.
  • Character:  People who played some role in your story.
  • Setting:  When and where the event happened
  • Conflict:  The problems faced by the characters
  • Theme:  Moral of the story

These five elements collectively make a strong narrative essay. Follow the narrative arc format to write a perfect essay. The narrative arc is a five stages process through which your plot passes to become a story.

Narrative Arc

The first step in writing a narrative essay is creating an outline. Let’s see how to start a narrative essay. Follow these steps to understand the outline writing process:

Let us discuss these steps in detail.

1. Choose an Essay Topic

A topic plays an important role in crafting a perfect essay. When writing a narrative essay, remember that you are telling a story, so you need to get the reader’s interest in the beginning. Choose a topic that interests you the most and gets the reader’s attention immediately.

2. Brainstorm

Before you get into the writing process, brainstorm for different ideas. Think of the things that happened in your story and try to recall the exact sequence. The brainstorming session helps you remember every important aspect related to your story. Make sure you don’t miss out on anything.

3. Write an Eye-catchy Introduction

The opening paragraph needs to accomplish three goals:

  • Get the reader involved in the essay with an eye-catchy hook statement.
  • Set the scene and give a glimpse of what happened in your story
  • State the thesis statement that provides an insight into what the story is all about.

4. Draft an Interesting Body

The body paragraphs comprise the major section of the essay. It describes the character, presents the setting, and discusses the conflicts. Here are the elements of the body paragraph:

  • Include a vivid description and present relevant details.
  • Incorporate dialogues effectively to get the reader involved in the story.
  • Write in the exact sequence in which the event happened.
  • Write in the first person while writing a personal story. Use the third person if you are writing someone else’s story.

5. Compose a Compelling Conclusion

In conclusion, you need to present the climax of the story. The following things should be included in the conclusion paragraph:

  • Present the climax of the story
  • Restate some of the key details
  • Share the lesson that you have learned from your story (if any)
  • Provide a call to action (if required)

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Narrative Essay Outline Worksheet

Narrative Essay Outline Worksheet (PDF)

Narrative Essay Outline Example

Narrative Essay Outline Format (PDF)

Narrative Essay Outline Structure (PDF)

Narrative Essay Outline MLA Format (PDF)

5 Paragraph Narrative Essay Outline (PDF)

Sample Narrative Essay Outline for Middle school (PDF)

High School Narrative Essay Outline Template (PDF)

Narrative Essay Outline for College (PDF)

Personal Narrative Essay Outline (PDF)

Descriptive Narrative Essay Outline (PDF)

Literacy Narrative Essay Outline (PDF)

Nonfiction Narrative Essay Outline (PDF)

Reflective Narrative Essay Outline (PDF)

Historical Narrative Essay Outline (PDF)

Biographical Narrative Essay Outline (PDF)

What are the Five Rules of Narrative Writing

Now that you have a step-by-step guide and examples for crafting a narrative essay outline. Here are the five essential rules of narrative writing:

1. Keep It Clear

As you are telling a story, make sure it is clear for the reader. Do not mix things up. It should be clear and easy to understand for the reader. Moreover, use simple and clear language.

2. Do Not Exaggerate

The narrative essay has a main theme around which the whole story revolves. Don’t overuse the details; just tell the story in vivid detail. You should sound real.

3. Write in The First Person

Narrative essays are usually the writer’s personal experiences that they share with the reader. Therefore, they should be written in the first person. Do not use the second-person narrative.

4. Use Dynamic Words

The word choice should be dynamic. Avoid making your story monotonous. Avoid using the same slangs or idioms.

5. Limit References

The formatting styles like APA, MLA, etc., recommend including citations in the essay. But, the narrative essays are personal stories; you should limit the references.

Follow this step-by-step guide to craft a perfect outline for your essay. However, if you get into any trouble, feel free to contact us.  FreeEssayWriter.net  is a professional essay writing service that provides an academic writing help for every level.

Our  essay writer  is one of the capable writers who can craft top-notch essays, research papers in a short period of time. Check out our free essays to analyze the quality of our work and get some inspiration to place your  order .

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Narrative Essay Outline: Format, Worksheet and Example

Before you start writing any essay, it is wise to outline what you intend to include in your essay regardless of the type. This guides you in writing the information that needs to be given. It also helps you organize your thoughts and avoid any distractions by nonessentials.

Writing a Narrative Essay Outline

Usually, most narrative essays are written in three paragraphs. This is, however, not a rule that is etched in stone – the number of paragraphs you decide to use will depend on how much you need to write. The important thing to bear in mind is to ensure that you do not include unnecessary details that can make your essay too long. Your aim should be to write something that retains the interest of whoever is reading your essay without boring or confusing them. The outline of your essay should generally include an introduction, the body of the essay, and a conclusion.

For a three-paragraph essay, the narrative essay structure could look like this:

  • Introduction: This is where you introduce your topic and the theme you intend to address. Your introduction should start with a catchy phrase, quote, or saying. You could also use a rhetorical question that gets the reader thinking and wanting to read your story. Since you are giving a narration, the “hook” within the introduction should be very intriguing. A story is useless if it can’t capture and maintain interest.
  • Body paragraph one: this paragraph caters to the beginning of your story. It would be best if you started introducing the characters of your story here. This paragraph also gives a background to your story. In this paragraph, you should use descriptive and clear vocabulary to introduce your story. This would be a good place to give information such as your story’s place, time, and period.
  • Body paragraph two: The second paragraph begins to share details on actions, consequences, and other important details required by the essay. Build your story in this paragraph to the point of climax.
  • Body paragraph three: This paragraph should tell how your story ends. You could use anecdotes or quotes as a wrap-up for your story. Concluding details such as results and consequences can be added to this paragraph.
  • Conclusion: The resolution of your story in this paragraph should highlight important details you want your readers to pick from your story. Decisions made, lessons learned, changes made, etc., can be written out in this paragraph. This is also where you restate the reason or theme of your essay.

Narrative Essay Format

Writing a narrative essay is like writing a story, so you can import the style of writing a narrative story format into writing your essay. To form the outline of a story, some approaches have been itemized. These include:

1. The plot-based approach

The plot of a story is the series of acts and actions that make up the story. A plot-based format should itemize the different important actions you intend to include in the storyline. Example

  • I graduated from school.
  • Search for a job before college.
  • Volunteer at a soup kitchen while waiting for college
  • Take refresher courses etc.

2. The scene-based approach

Every story, including a personal narrative essay, must have a scene(s). You could build the outline of your story based on the places of importance to your story.

Writing down the important places could help jolt your memory in the course of writing so that you don’t leave out any important detail. For example:

  • Grandpa’s house – I met the person who introduced me to photography.
  • Best friend’s party – I did my first photoshoot
  • My aunt’s office – I got introduced to magazine photoshoots etc

3. The theme-based approach

A theme-based outline maps out the central themes you intend to explore in your writing. This approach is suitable when you intend to address more than one theme. This approach does not work for all types of stories, so it may not work for your personal narrative essay. For example:

  • Willingness to learn – working with my uncle at his auto shop
  • Loyalty – staying with my uncle’s practice regardless of pay
  • Dedication – getting to work early to get in some work hours before the full day.

4. Freytag’s Pyramid Approach

Freytag’s approach is based on a pyramid that uses the five basic elements of a story to create an outline. The basic elements considered are exposition, rising action, climax, falling action, and resolution.

There is no perfect format for writing a story outline, and it is up to you to choose the best format you can work with. The most important point to note as you write out the outline of your essay is to ensure that you capture all the details you need to cover. Remember to write keywords or phrases that can trigger remembrance of the events you desire to include in the essay.

narrative essay examples outline

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How to Write an Essay Outline + Essay Outline Examples

Download for free, how to write an essay outline + essay outline examples .

Writing an essay can seem like a daunting task, but one of the best ways to tackle this challenge is to organize your ideas into a well-structured essay outline. This guide will walk you through the process of creating an essay outline, complete with essay outline examples, to ensure your next essay is a masterpiece.

We’ve compiled a variety of essay outline examples to help you understand how to structure your own essay. We'll cover persuasive essays, narrative essays, descriptive essays, expository essays, and even provide a sample research paper outline. Each example will provide you with an idea of how to lay out the structure and details for each type of essay.

Looking for a printable list of essay outline examples? Our printable PDF features essay outline examples and templates that your students can use as examples when writing research papers, or as a supplement for an essay-writing unit

Why write an essay outline? 

An outline serves as the skeleton of your essay, giving you a clear and organized path to articulate your thoughts. Not only does it make writing an essay significantly easier, but it also allows you to present your arguments coherently and effectively.

An essay outline will help you organize your main ideas and determine the order in which you are going to write about them.

Student receives essay feedback A+ . Essay outline examples.

Types of essay outlines

Several types of essay outlines can be used when writing an essay. The two most common types are the alphanumeric outline and the decimal outline.

An alphanumeric outline typically uses Roman numerals, capital letters, Arabic numerals, and lowercase letters, in that order. Each level provides a different level of specificity. This structure is a very effective way to think through how you will organize and present the information in your essay. It also helps you develop a strong argumentative essay.

Alternatively, a decimal outline uses only numbers, and each subsection is a decimal subdivision of the main section. This type of outline is often used in scientific papers.

Persuasive essay outline example 

In the following section, we'll explore a persuasive essay outline example on competitive swimming. The purpose of a persuasive essay is to convince the reader of a particular point of view or idea, using compelling arguments and evidence.

In this case, the argument is that competitive swimming is an ideal sport for kids. The essay will present a series of arguments to support this view, demonstrating the various benefits of competitive swimming for children.

Competitive Swimming, an Ideal Sport for Kids

Introduction

Start your argumentative essay outline by stating your point of view and/or presenting your persuasive argument.

Thesis: Competitive swimming is a great alternative to other youth sports.

Body Paragraph 1

Introduce your primary persuasive argument and provide supporting details in your argumentative essay outline.

Topic Sentence:   Competitive swimming provides the same benefits as other sports.

  • Detail Sentence 1:   It is good exercise and builds muscular strength.
  • Detail Sentence 2:   It promotes cooperation among team members, especially in relays.

Body Paragraph 2

Introduce a secondary argument and provide supporting details.

Topic Sentence:   Competitive swimming provides some unique additional benefits.

  • Detail Sentence 1:   Swimming is an important skill that can be used forever.
  • Detail Sentence 2:  Swimming poses a reduced risk of injury.
  • Detail Sentence 3:   Each swimmer can easily chart his or her own progress.

Conclude your essay writing with a summary of the thesis and persuasive arguments. Brainstorming details that support your point-of-view is a great way to start before creating your outline and first draft.

Concluding Sentence:   There are many reasons why competitive swimming is a great alternative to other youth sports, including...

Narrative essay outline example

In the following section, we will examine a narrative essay outline example titled "How Losing a Swim Meet Made Me a Better Swimmer." Narrative essays aim to tell a story, often about a personal experience, to engage the reader and convey a particular point or lesson.

In this case, the narrative revolves around the author's personal journey of improvement and self-discovery through swimming. The essay will illustrate how an initial setback served as a catalyst for significant improvement and personal growth.

How Losing a Swim Meet Made Me a Better Swimmer

Introduce the subject of your narrative essay using a thesis statement and a plan of development (POD).

Thesis: The first time I participated in a competitive swim meet, I finished in last place. With more focused training and coaching, I was able to finish 2nd in the State Championship meet.

Plan of development:   I was very disappointed in my results from the first meet, so I improved my training and fitness. This helped me swim better and faster, which helped me to greatly improve my results.

Set the scene and provide supporting details. Again, start by brainstorming different ways to begin; then go ahead and craft an outline and a first draft.

Topic Sentence:   I was embarrassed at finishing last in my first competitive swim meet, so I began working on ways to improve my performance.

  • Detail Sentence 1:   I spent extra time with my coach and the team captains learning how to improve my technique.
  • Detail Sentence 2:   I started running and lifting weights to increase my overall fitness level.

Provide additional supporting details, descriptions, and experiences to develop your general idea in your essay writing.

Topic Sentence:   Over time, my results began to improve and I was able to qualify for the state championship meet.

  • Detail Sentence 1:   My technique and fitness level made me faster and able to swim longer distances.
  • Detail Sentence 2:  I steadily got better, and I began winning or placing in the top 3 at most of my meets.
  • Detail Sentence 3:  My results improved to the point that I was able to qualify for the state championship meet.

Body Paragraph 3

The next step in the writing process is to provide additional supporting details, descriptions, and experiences. You can then divide them up under different headings.

Topic Sentence:   With my new confidence, techniques, and fitness level, I was able to finish 2nd at the state championship meet.

  • Detail Sentence 1:   I was able to swim well against a higher level of competition due to my training and technique.
  • Detail Sentence 2:  I was no longer embarrassed about my last-place finish, and was able to use it as motivation!

Conclude the narrative essay with a recap of the events described or a reflection on the lesson learned in the story. Briefly summarize the details you included under each heading.

Concluding Sentence:   I used my last-place finish in my first competitive swim meet as motivation to improve my performance.

Descriptive essay outline example

We will now delve into a descriptive essay outline example. Descriptive essays aim to create a vivid and detailed description of a person, place, object, or event to paint a picture for the reader. The intention is to immerse the reader in the subject matter fully.

In this case, the essay provides an in-depth description of a visit to the Hockey Hall of Fame in Toronto. The essay will use sensory and descriptive details to create a vivid and memorable experience for the reader.

Visiting the Hockey Hall of Fame

Introduce the subject of your descriptive essay with a thesis statement covering the person, place, object, etc. you are writing about.

Thesis: The Hockey Hall of Fame is full of sights, sounds, and experiences that will delight hockey fans of all ages.

Set the scene and provide factual details.

Topic Sentence:   The Hockey Hall of Fame is located in Toronto, Canada and features exhibits from amateur and professional hockey.

  • Detail Sentence 1:   The Hall is located in downtown Toronto and is visited by 1 million people every year.
  • Detail Sentence 2:   You can see exhibits ranging from the early beginnings of the sport to the modern NHL and Olympics.

Provide additional sensory details, descriptions, and experiences.

Topic Sentence:   There are many types of exhibits and shows, including activities you can participate in.

  • Detail Sentence 1:  Player statues, plaques, and jerseys decorate the walls in every room of the Hall.
  • Detail Sentence 2:  Many of the exhibits have movies and multimedia activities that make you feel like you're part of the game.
  • Detail Sentence 3:  You can even practice shooting pucks on virtual versions of some of the game's greatest goalies!

Conclude the essay with a paragraph that restates the thesis and recaps the descriptive and sensory details.

Concluding Sentence:   The Hockey Hall of Fame is an experience that combines the best sights, sounds and history of the game in Toronto.

Expository essay outline example

In the following section, we will explore an example of an expository essay. An expository essay aims to explain or describe a topic using logic. It presents a balanced analysis of a topic based on facts—with no references to the writer’s opinions or emotions.

For this example, the topic is "Why The School Year Should be Shorter". This essay will use logic and reason to demonstrate that a shorter school year could provide various benefits for students, teachers, and school districts.

Why The School Year Should be Shorter

Introduce the primary argument or main point of an expository essay, or other types of academic writing, using a thesis statement and context.

Thesis: The school year is too long, and should be shortened to benefit students and teachers, save districts money, and improve test scores and academic results. Other countries have shorter school years, and achieve better results.

Describe the primary argument and provide supporting details and evidence.

Topic Sentence:   A shorter school year would benefit students and teachers by giving them more time off.

  • Detail Sentence 1:   Students and teachers would be able to spend more time with their families.
  • Detail Sentence 2:  Teachers would be refreshed and rejuvenated and able to teach more effectively.

Provide additional supporting details and evidence, as in this essay outline example.

Topic Sentence:  A shorter school year would save school districts millions of dollars per year.

  • Detail Sentence 1:   Districts could save money on energy costs by keeping schools closed longer.
  • Detail Sentence 2:  A shorter school year means much lower supply and transportation costs.
  • Detail Sentence 3:  Well-rested and happy students would help improve test scores.

Provide additional or supplemental supporting details, evidence, and analysis, as in the essay outline example.

Topic Sentence:   Shortening the school year would also provide many benefits for parents and caregivers.

  • Detail Sentence 1:   A shorter school year would mean less stress and running around for parents.
  • Detail Sentence 2:  Caregivers would have more balance in their lives with fewer days in the school year.

Conclude the essay with an overview of the main argument, and highlight the importance of your evidence and conclusion.

Concluding Sentence:   Shortening the school year would be a great way to improve the quality of life for students, teachers, and parents while saving money for districts and improving academic results.

Sample research paper outline

Now let’s dive into a research paper outline. Unlike a typical essay, a research paper presents a thorough and detailed study on a specific topic. However, it shares the same foundation with an essay in terms of structuring the ideas logically and coherently. The outline for a research paper includes an introduction, a series of topic points that cover various aspects of the main topic, and a conclusion.

This research paper will explore the background of Mt. Everest, the major explorers who attempted its summit, and the impact of these expeditions on Mt. Everest and the local community.

The Conquest of Mt. Everest

  • Location of Mt. Everest
  • Geography of the Surrounding Area
  • Height of the mountain
  • Jomolungma (Tibetan name)
  • Sagarmatha (Nepalese name)
  • The number of people who have climbed Everest to date
  • First to reach the summit (1953)
  • Led a team of experienced mountain climbers who worked together
  • Norgay was an experienced climber and guide who accompanied Hillary
  • Sherpas still used to guide expeditions
  • Leader of the failed 1996 expedition
  • Led group of (mainly) tourists with little mountain climbing experience
  • Loss of trees due to high demand for wood for cooking and heating for tourists.
  • Piles of trash left by climbing expeditions
  • Expedition fees provide income for the country
  • Expeditions provide work for the Sherpas, contributing to the local economy.
  • Introduction of motor vehicles
  • Introduction of electricity

The Everest essay outline template is based on a research paper submitted by Alexandra Ferber, 9th grade.

Happy writing!

Writing an essay outline is a crucial step in crafting a well-structured and coherent essay. Regardless of the type of essay - be it persuasive, narrative, descriptive, expository, or a research paper - an outline serves as a roadmap that organizes your thoughts and guides your writing process. The various essay outline examples provided above serve as a guide to help you structure your own essay. Remember, the key to a great essay lies not just in the content but in its organization and flow. Happy writing!

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How to write a Narrative Essay Outline?

In most cases, a writer gets ideas for the essay story out of nowhere. However, even the highest inspiration at its performance peak will simply not work without a narrative essay outline. Every student should write a story outline . A narrative essay outline has basic rules tutorial. In order to create an effective narrative essay, the writer should adhere to them.

Table of Contents

Thesis Statement

The outline of the narrative essay has a thesis statement with a clear conflict and up front.

“I studied Spanish hard and now I’m fluent at speaking Spanish”.

A professional essay writer should start working on the essay with a topic sentence. For example, “My inability to speak Spanish fluently was a major burden for me in the class”. As there are many ways for the writer to begin the narrative story writing, the outline is written ensuring the chronological set of events.

Essay Outline Details

An essay outline can also be called the narrative arc. It should begin with the exposition, describing the time and place in the essay introduction. Also, it should introduce the main essay or story characters ‘Setting: Stockton, Calif. St.Endrew High School, early September 2012. Characters: John Olafson, protagonist, recently arrived from Bakersfield, Calif. Character’s main features: tall, red hair, blue eyes.” Keep in mind, that the essay outline is primarily just notes for the author, the outline should not flow as the essay itself.

  • After the essay’s characters and setting exposition is clearly stated, the writer should fill in the unknown areas of the protagonist life with the conflict, difficult situation, antagonists and actions. “The main conflict described in the essay is John’s inability to speak Spanish though he knows all the grammar rules and his vocabulary is rich”.
  • The outline may say. “In addition, he gets constant heckling from a class bully, Ben Waldo.”
  • The outline has a goal to show the conflict itself, but the main antagonist who participate in it too.
  • The rising action should give details to the complications that appear from the conflict. “John has a dream to invite his Spanish-speaking friend Jane out, but he cannot do this as he can get no word out.” “Jane goes on a date with Ben.”

Essay Conclusion Outline

  • The End of the essay is extremely important. The climax should be a turning point. It doesn’t matter how much writing you use to describe it. When the conflict is resolved, the writer may proceed to the outline finishing. “Jane realizes that John is special and sees him in a new way.”
  • The narrative essay may also have an unhappy ending. “Jane confesses to John that she is going to marry Ben.”
  • It doesn’t matter what ending will you choose, the pattern exposition-rising action- climax-resolving should be used in all conditions. This is the best pattern for all narrative stories.

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Essay Writing

Essay Outline Structure

Below you can find the example of the real outline of the 5 paragraph essay on the topic “Decisions we take in our life”.

Introduction

Thesis statement: During the life, a person should encounter many decisions, but the decisions made in childhood were the toughest.

Body Paragraph 1

Topic Sentence: Brooklyn is the place where I opened my eyes to the worlds for the first time.

Detail 1: Family information.

Example: I grew up with my father, living with his side of the family.

Detail 2: Where I had experienced my first life challenges.

Example: I had to walk to school alone.

Example: Playing on the streets in summer.  

Body Paragraph 2

Topic Sentence : Being born and raised in Brooklyn and leaving it all.

Detail 1:  It is hard to separate from the people I grew up with.

Example:  Most of my life I spent with my grandmother.

Example:  I used to go out with my close friends and cousins.

Detail 2: I was afraid to leave my surroundings.

Example: Description of my neighborhood.

Example: Description of my family.

Detail 3: Reluctance to erase the dreams and goals I had.

To become a successful person in the hometown.

Body Paragraph 3

Topic Sentence: The turning point of my whole life.

Detail 1: how to leave everything you know out of surprise.

Example: Not enough time to see everyone before leaving.

Detail 2: Necessity to restart the life.

Example: New people.

Example: New places.

Detail 3: Getting use to people completely opposite than you.

Example: College hostel.

Example: Real student’s life during the first university year.

After all the experience got since the childhood, I became more independent and learned how to make my own decisions, without being subjected to the influence of the other people.

narrative essay examples outline

How to Write a Good Narrative Essay: Tips, Examples, & Step-by-Step Guide

How to write a narrative essay? To do that, you need to know what a narrative essay is. It is an academic text usually written as a story and containing all the usual elements of a story. Narrative essays are often personal, experiential, and creative. Still, they should be made according to the rules of academic writing.

Want to know how to write a good narrative essay for college or middle school? In this guide by Custom Writing experts, you’ll find a step-by-step guide, narrative essay examples, advice on choosing a topic, outlining and writing your text, as well as useful narrative essay tips.

❔ What Makes a Good Narrative Essay?

  • 👣 Narrative Writing Guide
  • 💡 Writing Tips

🔗 References

A narrative essay is usually a story about your own or somebody’s experience. We tell stories every day. So, when you ask “How to write a narrative essay,” you should think of a story you want to write about. Stories don’t need to be very accurate. They should be engaging, that is their most important quality. If written as a story, your narrative essay should contain all the necessary parts of it: an introduction, a rising action, a climax, a falling action, and a denouement.

The Main Elements of a Narrative Essay Are: Introduction, Rising Action, Climax, Falling Action, & Lessons Learned.

Check out information below to learn what each part of a good narrative essay includes:

📌 Introduction

The introduction of a narrative essay consists of exposition and conflict:

  • The exposition presents the setting (time and place), characters, and mood.
  • The conflict is the main problem that drives the plot. It is an internal or external challenge the main character faces.

📌 Rising action

The rising action includes the events that lead up to the climax. They usually make the issue worse.

The climax is a turning point in the plot. It is the moment when opposing forces confront each other, make significant decisions, or take action.

📌 Falling action

The falling action refers to the events that occur after the climax, such as character development, answers to key questions, etc.

📌 Denouement

The denouement, also known as resolution, reveals how things turn out in the end, leaving readers with questions, answers, frustration, or satisfaction.

👣 How to Write a Good Narrative Essay

Below are five simple writing steps for a narrative essay. Here are simple things you should do before you start writing your story:

  • Think about your narrative essay topic and how your life experience correlates with it. Even a small fact, idea, or goal can become a good story idea.
  • Think about your emotions. The more passionate you will be – the more effective your assignment.
  • Recall your story’s details : people and objects, setting, and season. Think about the sequence of events and remember; no detail is too small. Remember: the small details reveal big ideas!

Step 1. Choose Your Narrative Essay Topic

If you are free to select your own topic for a narrative essay, you still need to read what is expected from you carefully and to follow the requirements stated in the assignment. These are the most common characteristics of a narrative essay for college students to mind when choosing a topic:

  • A challenge or conflict: an exciting or dangerous incident that creates suspense.
  • A protagonist: a character facing the challenge or conflict as mentioned above. If you are not the protagonist and the story is a third-person, it is better to choose a relatable character.
  • Evolution, growth, and change: when protagonists live through a conflict or challenge, their personality changes. Difficulties spark insights that may be used as a moral of the story.

To come up with a successful narrative topic, brainstorm the following directions of thought:

  • Think of a problem that bothers you and you’d like to share
  • Have you had any memorable experiences that have changed your view on life?
  • What kind of stories raises your interest? You can invent something similar.

Step 2. Make Your Narrative Essay Outline

A narrative essay is a less formal kind of academic paper. Still, it shall also conform with arrangement rules. This outline template will help you structure a narrative essay according to the traditional format.

Narrative Essay Outline

  • Background information about the protagonist
  • Thesis statement
  • Setting (place and time)
  • Preceding events
  • Secondary characters
  • Action and culmination
  • Outcome or morale
  • Summary of main events
  • Thesis restatement

Narrative Essay Introduction

The components of an introduction are:

  • Hook. Your narration needs to be moving, personal, and reflective. But in the first place, you shall engage your reader with the story. A hook sets the necessary tone from the beginning. An intriguing revelation or confession is the best choice here.
  • Background. Who is the protagonist of your story? Additional information helps the reader to put themselves into your shoes.
  • Thesis . It is an argumentative sentence where you specify the point of the piece of writing.

Narrative Essay Body

The components of a body are:

  • Setting. Make a visual and emotional description that suggests what experiences you will share. State when and where the action takes place.
  • Preceding events. In continuation of the previous point, sketch the circumstances under which the scenario unfolds.
  • Characters. Describe the secondary characters of your story.
  • Action and climax. Use the chronological order format throughout the main part. All the events shall culminate with a climax, the most emotional point of the plot.
  • Morale. What was the result of everything described above? What lessons can be learned from your story?

Narrative Essay Conclusion

The components of a conclusion are:

  • Summarizing paragraph . List the key points of your narration.
  • Thesis restatement. Reiterating your purpose in different words relating to the content of the main body finalizes your paper.

Step 3. Write Your Narrative Essay Introduction

Well, you have chosen the topic of your future writing and created your narrative essay outline. What’s next? Start writing your narrative essay with an introduction.

The introduction is an important part of your essay paper as it grabs the reader’s attention. And here are some basic guidelines for a narrative essay introduction.

  • Start with an introductory phrase. It has to be short and catchy. An unexpected point of view is always interesting to get acquainted with.
  • State the thesis. It doesn’t need to be as formal as in other types of academic papers. However, it’s worth saying a couple of words on why you decided to tell this particular story to the reader.
  • Write supporting sentences. Give reasons why the story you are sharing is significant.
  • Remember that the reader was not there when the story happened. He (or she)  is trying to catch up with it while reading. Be polite and thoughtful, don’t get into useless details or get swept away by the story, leaving your reader wondering and wandering.

Step 4. Create Your Narrative Essay Body

Your entire story is concentrated in body paragraphs: from three to as many as you wish.

Check the general guidelines on how to write a good narrative body!

  • Provide one idea per paragraph. Don’t try to put too many details in each of the logical parts.
  • Follow some logical pattern when presenting your narrative. Chronological is the easiest one.
  • Search for your personal writing style. It can be philosophical (careful! That requires specific knowledge), ironical, critical, romantic. Whatever you choose, it has to be you from top to bottom. The writing style is like an autograph. Work on it.

Step 5. Make a Narrative Essay Conclusion

You’re almost there. You just need to write good concluding sentences for your essay.

The conclusion is as important as an introduction. It leaves the aftertaste. Here you should make some final comments about your narrative. Restate some of the essential ideas and details and mention the most important lessons learned from your shared experience.

How to End a Narrative Essay?

  • Summarize. If you don’t like summarizing, or it doesn’t fit the style of the story, wrap it up with a rhetorical question or plans for the future.
  • Give your readers an idea. Think about the central message of the story and remind them of it.
  • Leave your readers experiencing a pleasant aftertaste. Give them a feeling that they need to sit back and think about the problems you brought up.

Step 6. Revise & Format Your Narrative Essay

Huh! You’ve done it. You finished the assignment. Now take a deep breath, go for a walk, or have some sleep. And then revise it. Here are some questions you should keep in mind when you review, reorganize, and modify your narrative essay to make it the best possible.

If you have any questions on how to format your narrative essay in MLA or APA, use our complete citation style guidebook .

Narrative Essay Checklist

  • Does the reader easily understand the progression of events? Do the transitions confuse or facilitate your readers?
  • Do I involve my readers in my experience? Should I add some details or remove extraneous ones that distract the attention?
  • How adequately did I convey the primary message of the essay? Does the experience described and its significance to me have a connection?

By the way, do you know which part of the writing process is usually the most underestimated? Proofreading . At this point, you should check and correct punctuation and grammar mistakes, improve clarity, and writing style. Ask your friend to read your narrative paper. You’ll get a fresh look at your writing.

📚 Narrative Essay Topics

If you need specific ideas to write your story about, explore the following narrative essay topics:

  • The most exciting day of your life.
  • A serious life lesson you learned.
  • A rebellious act that made a change .
  • A revelation that made you a different kind of person .
  • A moment you took a stand for yourself.
  • A situation when you protected someone.
  • An exciting discovery.
  • A moment when you had to overcome fear .
  • A dangerous situation you managed to escape.
  • What type of learner are you?
  • Detail how you used to handle stress at high school.
  • Describe the situation that helped you to understand the notion of race and ethnicity.
  • Discuss your experience of keeping to a financial plan .
  • Outline the day you attended court and how it influenced you.
  • Describe your experience of riding a bicycle .
  • Detail the parenting style of your parents and its impact on your personality.
  • Tell about the day you or your friend tried challenging gender norms.
  • Discuss your experience with writing.
  • Describe your traveling experience and the lessons you learned thanks to it.
  • Narrate how getting a degree changed your life.
  • Give details about your visit to a jazz concert.
  • What was the most embarrassing episode in your life?
  • Describe the peculiarities of the celebration of the traditional Thai New Year.
  • Tell a story that illustrates the influence of culture on human life.
  • Discuss the challenges you’ve faced when buying your first laptop .
  • Specify the situation when you faced racism.
  • What was the most memorable event in your childhood?
  • Write about your experience of trying dance movement therapy and its results.
  • Describe the case when you had a conflict and how you managed to resolve it.
  • Your experience of learning English.
  • Tell about your high school challenges and how you overcame them.
  • Give details about your experience of a cover conflict .
  • Recall and describe the moment of happiness .
  • Depict the last live concert you visited and the impression it made.
  • Write about your job experience.
  • Describe your visit to Australia and what you’ve learned from it.
  • Detail your experience of starting college and how it changed your life.
  • Tell about your first date .
  • Explain how a vacation in Mexico City added to your life experience.
  • Discuss the effect of the logic course on your life.
  • Describe your experience of bullying and its impact on your life.
  • Give details about your experience of global lockdown and how it changed your life values.
  • Tell a story that shows the role of technology in your life.
  • How was your first day at college?
  • Describe the most memorable event that had a positive impact on your life .
  • Narrate the story that happened to you on Christmas .
  • How did you meet your best friend ?
  • Write about the case of jealousy in friendship and how you managed to cope with it.
  • Describe your experience of adopting a cat from Humane Society.
  • Tell the story that shows how practicing mindfulness changed your life.

😸 Narrative Essay Examples

Example #1: live-saving experience.

In this essay, I would like to narrate a story that occurred with me and my friend when we were visiting a large shopping mall. It was the weekends, and our meeting in the café was planned in advance, but my friend suggested that we can go to the mall as she needed a new dress. I agreed with her and arrived a little earlier than it was arranged. I took a seat on the bench near the mall, sipping my cappuccino and looking around while waiting for my friend. The next 20 minutes were one of the most stressful and important in my life as I significantly contributed to saving a human life.

Example #2: Creating a Business with a Friend

I have been in business for more than ten years. I have seen crises, success, failures, tears, sweat, and hard work everywhere. Nevertheless, each time it was also about opportunities to grow both as an individual and as an entrepreneur. But I had one that was particularly memorable emotionally. This is a story about creating a business with a friend. I worked in various fields, and I started four of my companies with friends.

💡 Narrative Essay Tips

Do you need more tips for narrative writing? Keep reading!

  • Keep it clear. Avoid complex words and syntax.
  • Search for the balance when describing details . Don’t go into them too deeply. At the same time, even a single lost detail can skew the reader’s understanding.
  • Use the first-person narrative . Good narrative stories are usually written in the first person. When you use “I”, you’re engaging your readers with an immediacy of the story.
  • Use dynamic words and active voice . Think about your writing as it was the speech: what words, idioms, slang, and turns of phrase would you use? Try not to sound too clinical – no passive constructions.
  • Limit references . When you look through citation style guides, you’ll find the recommendations to include citations into your assignment. But not in a narrative essay – it is disruptive. When you find a useful piece of content, just cite it in the reference list after the essay.

Thank you for reading! Whenever you feel that you could use some help in writing your paper, take a closer look at these tips – you’ll definitely be able to develop your own signature style once you start following them. Keep up the good work!

  • Essay Writing: Purdue Online Writing Lab
  • How to Write an Making an Argument: Creating a Thesis (BMCC Writing Center)
  • Beginning the Academic Essay: Harvard College Writing Center
  • Conclusions: University of North Carolina Writing Center
  • Editing and Revision Tips: Indiana University Northwest
  • Narrative Essays // Purdue Writing Lab
  • Narrative Essay: Definition, Examples & Characteristics
  • Narrative Essays – National Geographic Learning – Cengage
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I will comment as soon as i finish reading your samples

Thanks guys it helped alot. i have my exam in 2 hours!

Thanks for sharing this 🙂

Thanks alot

Thank u so much… your tips have really helped me to broaden my scope on the idea of a narrative. This is so thoughtful of you… Thanks again!❤

This passage is really good, it helps me a lot. I think I can get a good result in my next exam if I follow these tips. I hope you can give some more other examples of essay writing. Thank you.

Thanx for the tips. Tomorrow I’m writing p3 pre-exam n ur tips are superb

Examples

Narrative Essay

Narrative essay generator.

narrative essay examples outline

Most of us have written essays in school, where we had a formal theme book in which we wrote about our favorite literary works. Those were essential days. Essay writing continued to haunt us during high school and even college days.  This is an excellent opportunity to improve our writing. We should never be frightened if we make common trial mistakes because we can develop learning and get excited about writing an essay next time. Institutions would generally let us write a narrative essay. So this boils down to the question, what is a narrative essay?

What is Narrative Essay? A narrative essay is a type of writing that tells a story. Unlike other essays that argue points or analyze subjects, a narrative essay tells a personal story, much like a storyteller. The main goal of this essay is to entertain and engage the reader by recounting interesting events in a clear, coherent manner. It often reflects the writer’s personal experience, allowing them to express themselves creatively and compellingly. Narrative essays use vivid descriptions and a structured plot, including characters, a setting, a climax, and a conclusion, to bring the story to life.

The Best Example of Narrative Essay

Title: The Day I Became an Environmentalist Introduction: One sunny afternoon, as I strolled through the lush, green park near my home, something extraordinary happened. It was a day that transformed my view of the world and carved a new path in my life. Body: I had always considered myself nature-friendly, but I hadn’t really taken any concrete steps towards environmental conservation. That day, as I walked, I noticed a group of volunteers, young and old, diligently picking up litter, their hands shielded by gloves, their faces beaming with purpose. Curious, I approached them, and they introduced me to their mission: a local environmental group dedicated to cleaning and preserving our community’s natural spaces. Intrigued, I decided to join in. As I picked up plastic bottles and discarded wrappers, a sense of responsibility began to burgeon within me. The leader of the group, Mrs. Thompson, shared staggering facts about pollution and its impact on our planet. Her words struck a chord in me. We continued our work, and as the pile of collected trash grew, so did my resolve. Climax: Then came the moment that sealed my commitment. We found a small bird, its leg trapped in a plastic ring, struggling helplessly. The group carefully freed the bird and tended to its injury. Watching the bird eventually fly away, a wave of emotion washed over me. It was a stark reminder of the impact our actions have on other living beings. Conclusion: As the day ended, I realized that my casual stroll in the park had turned into a life-changing experience. I signed up as a regular volunteer and started making more environmentally conscious choices in my daily life. That day, I didn’t just help clean a park; I embarked on a journey as an environmentalist, committed to making a difference in the world. This experience taught me the power of individual action in the fight against environmental degradation. It’s a lesson I carry with me every day, and through my narrative, I hope to inspire others to take their own steps towards protecting our planet.

Short Narrative Essay

Title: A Moment of Kindness Introduction: On a brisk winter morning, I experienced a small act of kindness that left a lasting impact on my heart. Body: I was running late for an important meeting, nerves frazzled, as I rushed towards the subway. In my haste, my bag snagged on a bench, spilling its contents. Papers fluttered like snowflakes in the wind. I felt a wave of panic, but then something wonderful happened. A young girl, no more than eight, stopped and began gathering my papers. Her small hands worked quickly, a smile brightening her face. Others passed by, but she stayed, helping me collect every last sheet. Her act of kindness in that chaotic moment was a beacon of calm. We exchanged no words, just a smile and a nod, a silent understanding of gratitude. As she handed me the last paper, her eyes sparkled with genuine warmth. Conclusion: I made it to my meeting just in time, but the memory of the girl’s kindness stayed with me. It was a simple act, yet it reminded me of the profound impact kindness can have. In our busy lives, we often overlook these moments, but they hold the power to transform our day and touch our hearts.

Narrative Essay Format

A narrative essay tells a story, usually from the author’s perspective, and follows a clear and structured format. Understanding this format is crucial for effective storytelling in essay form.

Introduction

Hook: Begin with a compelling hook to grab the reader’s attention. This could be an intriguing statement, a question, or a brief preview of the story. Setting the Scene: Provide background information that sets the stage for your story. This includes the setting, characters, and context. Thesis Statement: Though not always necessary in narrative essays, a thesis can be used to present the main theme or lesson learned.
Paragraphs: The body should be divided into several paragraphs, each focusing on a specific part of the story. Chronological Order: Narratives typically follow a chronological order, but flashbacks or non-linear storytelling can be used effectively. Character Development: Develop your characters through their actions, dialogue, and interactions within the story. Vivid Descriptions: Use descriptive language to paint a picture for the reader, making the experience immersive. Building the Plot: Ensure each paragraph contributes to the overall plot, leading towards a climax.
Turning Point: The climax is the most exciting part of the story, where the main conflict or challenge peaks. Emotional Highpoint: This section should be emotionally engaging, capturing the essence of the conflict or experience.
Resolution: Wrap up the story by resolving the conflict or bringing the story to a close. Reflection: Reflect on the events of the story and their impact. This could include lessons learned or how the experience changed the narrator. Closing Remarks: End with final thoughts that leave a lasting impression on the reader.

Narrative Essay Outline

Creating an outline for a narrative essay helps in organizing thoughts and ensuring a coherent and engaging story. Here’s a basic outline to guide your writing:

Hook: Start with an engaging opening to captivate your reader’s interest. Setting: Briefly describe the time, place, and context of your story. Characters: Introduce the main characters involved in your narrative. Purpose: State the purpose or theme of your essay, if applicable.

Paragraph 1:

Event 1: Describe the first key event or situation in your story. Details: Add relevant details to create a vivid picture. Character Reactions: Explain how the characters respond to Event 1.

Paragraph 2:

Event 2: Present the next significant event or development. Details: Include descriptive details to enhance the narrative. Character Reactions: Show how the characters react or change.

Paragraph 3 (and more, if needed):

Subsequent Events: Continue describing subsequent events, following the same pattern. Build-up to Climax: Gradually build tension or suspense leading up to the climax.
Main Event: Present the climax or the most critical moment of your story. Peak of Action: Highlight the peak of the action or conflict. Character Responses: Focus on the characters’ responses and emotions.
Resolution: Describe how the conflict or action is resolved. Reflection: Reflect on the events and their impact on the characters or yourself. Lesson Learned: If applicable, discuss the moral or lesson learned from the story. Closing Remarks: End with a statement that leaves a lasting impression on the reader.

Narrative Essay Topics with Samples

  • Narrative Essay on Childhood Memories
  • Narrative Essay on Road Accident I Witnessed
  • Narrative Essay on How I spent my holiday
  • Narrative Essay on On a Rainy Day
  • Narrative Essay on The Day I never forget
  • Narrative Essay on Friendship
  • Narrative Essay on A Trip I never forget
  • Narrative Essay on My First Day in School
  • Narrative Essay on Personal Experience
  • Narrative Essay on Overcoming a Challenge
  • Narrative Essay on Losing a Loved One
  • Narrative Essay on Earthquake
  • Narrative Essay on Being Judged

Types of Narrative Essay

1. Personal Narrative Essay : A story from the writer’s own life or experiences, often highlighting a personal journey or lesson learned.

2. Descriptive Narrative Essay: Focuses on detailed, sensory descriptions to create a vivid picture of a scene, event, or character.

3. Historical Narrative Essay: Tells a story set in a historical context, blending factual history with storytelling elements.

4. Biographical Narrative Essay: Relays the life story of another person, emphasizing their experiences and achievements.

5. Fictional Narrative Essay: A made-up story created entirely from the writer’s imagination, not based on real events.

6. Adventure Narrative Essay: Focuses on an exciting or adventurous experience, often involving action and suspense.

7. Mystery Narrative Essay: Centers around a mystery or puzzle, engaging the reader in uncovering secrets or solving a problem.

8+ Narrative Essay Outline Examples

1. narrative essay outline template.

Narrative Essay Outline Template

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2. Narrative Essay Outline For College Template

Narrative Essay Outline For College Template

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3. Narrative Essay Outline Template

Narrative Essay Outline Template

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4. Personal Narrative Essay Outline

Personal Narrative Essay Outline

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5. Sample Narrative Essay Outline

Sample Narrative Essay Outline

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6. Printable Narrative Essay Outline

Printable Narrative Essay Outline

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7. Outline for a Five-Paragraph Essay Template

Outline for a Five Paragraph Essay

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8. Narrative Essay Outline Format

Narrative Essay Outline Format

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9. Narrative Essay Outline in PDF

Narrative Essay Outline in PDF

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What purpose does a narrative essay serve?

Narrative writing allows writers to tell their stories uniquely. Also, it assists them in clarifying their thoughts and teaching them how to write them down in an organized manner. It also helps them in aiding in their quest for self-identity. They can learn about a variety of characters and settings through narrative writing.

How To Write a Narrative Essay?

Writing a narrative essay involves telling a story from your perspective and requires careful planning, detailed description, and a clear structure. Here’s a step-by-step guide to help you craft an effective narrative essay:

1. Choose Your Story:

  • Select a meaningful event or experience from your life. It should be something you can write about in detail and has a clear beginning, middle, and end.

2. Create an Outline:

  • Plan the structure of your essay. Outline the sequence of events and decide how you will introduce your story, build the plot, and conclude.

3. Write a Strong Introduction:

  • Start with a hook to grab the reader’s attention. This could be a quote, a question, a vivid description, or an interesting fact.
  • Set the scene by providing background information and context.
  • Introduce the main characters involved in your story.

4. Develop the Body:

  • Describe the events in chronological order, but feel free to use flashbacks or non-linear storytelling if it serves your narrative.
  • Focus on making each paragraph a clear step in the progression of your story.
  • Use descriptive language to paint a vivid picture for the reader.
  • Show emotions and conflicts through dialogue and inner thoughts.

5. Build Up to the Climax:

  • Lead the narrative towards the climax or the most critical point of your story.
  • This is usually where the main conflict or tension reaches its peak.

6. Write a Satisfying Conclusion:

  • Resolve the story and tie up any loose ends.
  • Reflect on the events and share what you learned or how you changed as a result of the experience.

Tips to Write a Best Narrative Essay

  • Choose a Meaningful Topic: Pick a story with personal significance or one that has impacted you deeply. This connection makes your narrative more authentic and engaging.
  • Start with a Hook: Begin with a sentence that grabs the reader’s interest, like a thought-provoking question, a surprising fact, or a vivid description.
  • Use Descriptive Language: Employ vivid, sensory details to create a rich, immersive experience for the reader. Describe sights, sounds, smells, and textures.
  • Show, Don’t Tell: Instead of merely stating events, show them through action, dialogue, thoughts, and feelings to make your story more dynamic.
  • Develop Characters and Setting: Give life to your characters with distinct personalities and voices. Set the scene with clear, descriptive details about the environment.
  • Follow a Clear Structure: Organize your narrative with a clear beginning, middle, and end. Ensure your story flows logically and is easy to follow.
  • Build to a Climax: Lead your story to a high point where the main conflict or tension reaches its peak. This keeps readers invested in the outcome.

What does the term “narrative format” mean?

In writing, the narrative format is an effective structure for narrating stories and sharing anecdotes and messages. While the narrative format does not have to follow a strict chronological order or sequence of events effectively, all compelling narratives or stories should include five major components.

What is the definition of a simple narrative?

The events that makeup stories are referred to as a narrative. It’s the way events in a story or book are connected and form the plot. A narrative is a collection of related events told in a sequence of written or spoken words to the reader or listener.

What is the format of a narrative essay?

A narrative essay is an essay in which the entire narrative revolves around a single motif or central point. All of the events, happenings, and characters in the story revolve around a single theme. In terms of format, a narrative essay is similar to a simple five-paragraph article.

It should be enjoyable to write a narrative essay. It does not bind you to a strictly linear format with no room for creativity.  That isn’t to say that breaking all the rules and writing something absurd is a good idea. If you’re still confused about what to write, consider your story as a coming-of-age story. An experience that shaped you into the person you are now. Your main goal is to take your readers on an adventure. Allow them to hear about your experience and learn something from it. The best stories are always those that take the audience outside of their usual comfort zones.

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How to Write a Narrative Essay to Score Top Marks: Top Tips

How to write a narrative essay to score top marks

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With a Juris Bachelor's degree and a decade of legal practice, Darious Davson excels in creating compelling and authoritative academic papers in Law and Ethics. His work is a testament to his profound knowledge of the legal system and commitment to upholding ethical writing practices. So, this experienced paper writer is your top-tier pick!

How to write a narrative essay? This task has never been an easy task for students. The fact is that it requires showing off your experiences, life-changing moments, and outstanding events that had an impact on your personality. So, what is the main challenge of a narrative essay, and how to write it? 

First, it is difficult to determine the moment you want to describe. Second, the writing process itself requires excellent skills and the ability to convey facts excitingly. Moreover, you need to understand the requirements and choose a suitable format. And all this is just the top of a glacier! 

However, there is good news. I’m here to help! So, get ready to find the answers to the crucial questions about effective writing right here.

Let’s begin with identifying the core features of personal narratives. What do most successful academic papers have in common? 

  • First-person perspective: The key feature of this type of paper is that it must be written in the first person. You need to write about yourself, not your favorite artists or teachers. 
  • Engaging opening: Your essay must grab the readers' attention from its first lines. 
  • Detailed descriptions: Each sentence matters. Don’t be afraid to add bright descriptions of the environment, mood, and other aspects that make your story unique. 
  • Emotional resonance: Your essay should touch the hearts of the readers. Avoid composing a long monologue with a list of simple facts. 
  • Clear goal: According to the narrative format rules, your paper must not be a biography or a story without a clear purpose. Make sure it has an easily recognizable goal. 

Logical organization: Looking at most narrative essay examples, you will notice that they all have a logical flow.

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When writing a narrative essay, you must follow the main rules of completing this academic assignment. To make your job easier, I developed this guide to cover all the questions and blind spots most students usually face. So, it’s high time to discover all the critical aspects of crafting an excellent paper.

What is a narrative essay: defining the concept

Before you jump into writing and exploring the main rules for this tricky academic paper, it is necessary to have a closer look at the basics. So, what is a narrative essay? The main thing you need to know about it is that it must be a unique story from the writer’s viewpoint. As a rule, it covers topics related to your experiences, events, and memories. However, your writing shouldn’t be a monotonous bunch of facts. Make sure to describe facts easily, interestingly, and engagingly.

Unlike other types of academic papers, a personal narrative puts storytelling first. You can also use the following elements to make your story catchier:

  • Diverse descriptions; 
  • Chronological order.

Grasping the Fundamentals of Narrative Essays

You can effortlessly find many narrative essay examples online. However, you need to know that college and high school papers of this kind usually have some differences. Moreover, each one usually has a long list of requirements and unique features. Here is a list of what you should take into account when exploring the needs of narrative writing:

  • Essay structure;
  • Paper length;
  • Style of writing;
  • Rules for creating a thesis statement;
  • Requirements for the introduction;
  • Requirements for the body paragraphs;
  • Requirements for the conclusion.

Even experienced students often feel lost when facing this type of academic assignment. What is more, this challenge makes them ask one crucial question: “Is there anyone who can write my essay for me?”. This issue disturbs even the most talented and skilled students. Fortunately, there are professional writing services that are always ready to help. But if you still want to complete your assignment yourself, it’s time to choose a topic!  

Top narrative essay topics for academic success

There are hundreds of narrative essay topics available online. Still, I highly recommend you develop your own. Feel free to use the tips below to identify your only idea. 

  • Think of your experiences: This prompt might sound obvious. However, many students often start by looking for ideas online or asking artificial intelligence platforms to generate a list of possible solutions. But what about diving into your own memories?
  • Find out particular lessons: You surely have a particular experience that shaped your character. What about telling about it in your personal narrative?
  • Don’t think only about yourself: Your audience matters, too! Select an intriguing and relevant topic that will not make your readers yawn.
  • Make a list: Sometimes, you might invent a few personal narrative topics that look good. Write all your ideas down. The reason is that a chosen idea might suddenly turn out to be unsuitable when you start writing. For this case, you need a plan B (or even plan C). 
  • Choose an uncommon angle: If you select a common topic, you must find a unique approach to describe it. Try to add some fresh ideas to your storytelling. 
  • Test: If you can’t choose a topic between several alternatives, try to compare them. You can also draw a small draft for each to define narrative writing that will likely suit all your requirements and expectations. 
  • Listen to your gut: Intuition works not only to teach important life lessons. It might help you with choosing a good topic, too. 

Narrative essay examples

You may use dozens of literacy narrative topics and other solutions for your paper. Here is a list of some ideas for you:

  • A Moment of Courage: Overcoming a Fear That Changed My Life
  • Lost and Found: A Journey of Self-Discovery during Travel
  • The Day Everything Changed: A Personal Reflection on a Major Life Event
  • Lessons from Failure: How Setbacks Have Shaped My Character
  • An Unforgettable Friendship: The Story of a Lifelong Bond
  • From Dream to Reality: Pursuing a Passion against All Odds
  • The Power of Forgiveness: Healing Wounds and Moving Forward

Crafting an excellent narrative essay structure 

After you’ve decided on a topic, it’s time to build a skeleton for your essay. Learners often have issues when creating their first narrative essay structure. Still, if you understand the basic elements of your paper, you will get almost half of the job done:

  • Plot: It is a sequence of events that organically come one after another in your story. Avoid jumping between facts from different parts of your paper.  
  • Characters: Of course, you must be your story’s protagonist. However, don’t focus only on your personality. There should be other people, too.
  • Setting: This is a description of the environment where your story takes place. Pay more attention to this part, as it can spice up your narration. 
  • Dialogs: Double-check whether all the dialogues add value to your personal narrative and are realistic. 
  • Climax: This is the heart of your story. It is better to describe it with the highest tension and feature-rich facts.
  • Final: This is the resolution of your story. After you’ve reached a final thought, you can add a brief summary and end your paper.

Narrative essay outline: top prompts

Now that you know your paper's critical elements, it’s time for a narrative essay outline. As a rule, it must have a chronological order and traditional essay structure:

Introduction

  • Hook: Similar to many other academic papers, your narrative should have a hook and a good-looking opening sentence. Make sure your intro attracts attention and doesn’t look obvious or boring. A good introduction is one of the keys to receiving an excellent grade for your assignment. 
  • Background: Here, you are expected to describe some settings, characters, and minor details to allow the readers to imagine your story better.
  • Thesis statement: Your thesis statement must briefly describe the main goal of your narrative writing. 
  • Flow of events: Your paragraphs should be organized and chronological. Always follow your story’s timeline. 
  • Dialogs: Although the traditional narrative essay format doesn’t require using dialogs, most students add them to their papers. This approach allows them to describe all the events and characters much easier. 
  • Reflection: Remember that your essay must demonstrate your feelings and emotions. 
  • Summary: Almost any academic paper requires a short and powerful summary. Personal narratives are not an exception to this rule.
  • Reflective end-up: Use your closing to connect with the thesis.
  • Impression: Try to leave an impression on the readers and make them think about your paper a few moments after you’ve finished it. 

Types of narratives: learning from examples

There are several types of narratives you need to distinguish:  

  • Personal: Focuses on a specific experience or event. It usually shares insights or lessons learned.
  • Descriptive: This one usually describes a scene or event with the help of diverse sensory details.
  • Autobiographical: This solution recounts the author's life story and highlights milestones, challenges, and achievements.
  • Travel: Documents the author's experiences and observations during traveling.
  • Historical: This narrative writing recounts significant historical events or periods from a personal perspective, blending historical facts with reflections.
  • Literary: Explores themes, characters, and motifs of a literary work or genre, offering personal interpretation.
  • Ethnographic: Draws on the author's observations within a cultural or social context, offering insights into individuals or communities.

The narrative essay definition for high school students is not difficult. Moreover, it’s the same for all learners. However, you are expected to tell a story about the most important lessons in your life and share something meaningful for you. It shouldn’t be only funny or entertaining. You may also describe how you’ve made mature choices and the right decisions (regardless of how tough they were.)

If you google “define narrative essay for college students,” you will find out that it is developed to demonstrate your best qualities through the description of a particular life event. Don’t hesitate to put your creativity into practice and use unique writing approaches. A few things most professors value in this type of academic paper created by college learners:

  • Your ability to be flexible and adapt to drastically changing life situations;
  • Your creative problem-solving skills;
  • Your ability to take lessons from the mistakes you’ve made.

How to write a narrative essay: tips to achieve top marks 

  • Choose a compelling topic: What is the purpose of narrative writing? Make sure you find the answer and then select a meaningful topic.
  • Create a strong thesis: Develop a clear thesis statement that conveys your narrative's main message or lesson.
  • Use vivid descriptions: Engage the reader by incorporating sensory details and descriptive language to picture the events and characters vividly.
  • Establish a clear structure: When writing a narrative essay, organize it chronologically. Develop a clear beginning, middle, and end.
  • Maintain a consistent point of view: Stick to a consistent narrative perspective throughout the essay.
  • Include dialogue: Dialogs can bring your characters to life and add authenticity to your narrative.
  • Show, don't tell: Instead of simply stating events, you must show them through actions, emotions, and sensory experiences.
  • Reflect on significance: Reflect on the event's significance and share insights when writing a narrative essay.
  • Edit and revise: Don’t forget to revise your essay for clarity, coherence, and impact.
  • Seek feedback: Get feedback from peers, instructors, or mentors to improve your narrative.

Many students report serious difficulties with completing a narrative academic assignment. Can I pay someone to write my paper? Hundreds of learners often ask this question. And the answer is “Yes!” In this case, you will get a perfectly written, proofread, and original paper crafted according to all your requirements.

But what if you decide to write on your own? This way, the best answer to how to write a narrative essay is to understand its core concepts and strictly follow your professor’s guidelines.

FAQs on writing brilliant narrative essays

How can i make my narrative essay stand out from others.

Many narrative essay ideas can be found online. However, to stand out, it is better to find a unique topic for your assignment. 

What are common mistakes most students make in narrative writing?

The most common mistakes in a personal narrative are failing to follow an essay structure, failing to include a thesis statement, and sharing too many diverse facts. 

How can I revise my narrative essay?

You must review your paper for clarity, consistency, and coherence, edit grammar and mechanics, enhance descriptive language, trim unnecessary details, check a narrative format, ensure a strong conclusion, and conduct a final proofread.

Should I use dialogues in a narrative essay?

This rule is not 100% obligatory. However, if you search for successful narrative essay examples online, you will discover that almost all have dialogs. 

What are the best ways to improve the essay’s flow?

Use a chronological order and a strict timeline when polishing your academic paper. 

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Home — Essay Samples — Life — Falling in Love — Personal Narrative Paper: I Fell In Love

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Personal Narrative Paper: I Fell in Love

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  1. Narrative Essay Outline

    The main body of a narrative essay is the most important part because it tells the whole story. This is where you state the facts, provide examples, give details, and guide the reader through the plot. According to the five paragraphs essay structure, it has three body paragraphs, but it can depend on the length and word count.

  2. How to Write a Narrative Essay

    Interactive example of a narrative essay. An example of a short narrative essay, responding to the prompt "Write about an experience where you learned something about yourself," is shown below. Hover over different parts of the text to see how the structure works.

  3. How to Write a Narrative Essay Outline? Examples & Template

    Narrative Essay Outline Format. Here are general formatting rules for a narrative essay outline: Organizational Structure: Ensure your outline follows the standard structure of a narrative essay, which includes Introduction, Body, and Conclusion sections. Font and Size: Use a clear and easily readable font such as Times New Roman or Arial, in 12-point size for consistency and readability.

  4. Narrative Essay Outline: Structure, Examples, Tips

    Use it as an example or checklist while working on your outline. Introduction consists of the following parts: Hook - captivating readers is essential, especially in a narrative essay examples, that often wants to be personal, moving, reflective, or inviting feelings of appreciation or admiration. Also, it is highly advisable to set a proper ...

  5. Narrative Essay

    4. The time when you overcame a fear or obstacle and how it helped you grow as a person. 5. A moment of personal growth and reflection that helped you realize something important about yourself. Here are a few personal narrative essay topics. 1. The moment you realized what you wanted to do with your life. 2.

  6. How To write A Narrative Essay Outline + Examples & Tips

    Let's get into the elements of a well-crafted narrative essay outline: 1. Hook Your Audience. This is the first step and perhaps most important one. The introduction is your chance to grab your reader's attention. Engage their curiosity with a captivating hook. You can use a quote, a question, or even a startling fact.

  7. How to Write a Narrative Essay Step by Step

    Step 1: Start with a Topic Selection. When crafting a narrative essay, begin by selecting a topic that either relates to your personal experiences or aligns with a given prompt. If a prompt is provided, consider its requirements and brainstorm ideas that fit within its scope.

  8. How to Write a Narrative Essay: Tips, Examples, Outline ...

    4. Write a draft. Now, it's time to write your narrative essay. Follow the outline and start crafting each paragraph step by step. Stick to the narrative arc, but remember that you are writing an academic paper, not a fictional story. Operate within the structure of a standard college essay.

  9. How to write an effective outline for a narrative essay

    Example. Step I. Identify the Topic. The first step in creating an outline for a narrative essay is to identify the topic you will be writing on, this would involve clearly stating what the essay is going to be about. This would provide your reader with an idea of what to expect in the essay. If you are writing an essay on your self-growth ...

  10. How to Write an Essay Outline

    Revised on July 23, 2023. An essay outline is a way of planning the structure of your essay before you start writing. It involves writing quick summary sentences or phrases for every point you will cover in each paragraph, giving you a picture of how your argument will unfold. You'll sometimes be asked to submit an essay outline as a separate ...

  11. A Complete Narrative Essay Guide

    Purpose: Reach the peak of the story, the moment of highest tension or significance. Elements: Turning Point: Highlight the most crucial moment or realization in the narrative. Example: "As the sun dipped below the horizon and hope seemed lost, a distant sound caught our attention—the rescue team's helicopters.".

  12. How to Write a Narrative Essay Outline: Template & Examples

    📝 Narrative Essay Outline Template . Now, let's see what we have in the end. Have a look at the following narrative essay outline example: Introduction. Hook. It's a catchy and intriguing sentence. An interesting question or a surprising fact will do. Background information.

  13. How to Write an Essay Outline: 5 Examples & Free Template

    Each of these essays serves a different purpose and is structured differently. Let's understand the purpose of each of these essay types with the help of relevant essay outline examples: 1. Narrative essay outline. A narrative essay outline is a highly personalized outline that reflects your unique experiences, feelings, and observations.

  14. Narrative Essay Outline

    Now that you have a step-by-step guide and examples for crafting a narrative essay outline. Here are the five essential rules of narrative writing: 1. Keep It Clear. As you are telling a story, make sure it is clear for the reader. Do not mix things up. It should be clear and easy to understand for the reader.

  15. Writing a Foolproof Narrative Essay Outline

    A narrative essay outline can help ensure your writing tells a great story. Use the narrative outline essay template to get started. ... Narrative essay outline sample Click to View & Download Tell Your Story. Creating an outline for your narrative essay helps you keep the information in chronological order. The more detailed your outline is ...

  16. Narrative Essay Outline: Format, Worksheet and Example

    Writing a narrative essay is like writing a story, so you can import the style of writing a narrative story format into writing your essay. To form the outline of a story, some approaches have been itemized. These include: 1. The plot-based approach. The plot of a story is the series of acts and actions that make up the story.

  17. How to Write an Essay Outline + Essay Outline Examples

    Narrative essay outline example. In the following section, we will examine a narrative essay outline example titled "How Losing a Swim Meet Made Me a Better Swimmer." Narrative essays aim to tell a story, often about a personal experience, to engage the reader and convey a particular point or lesson.

  18. Narrative Essays

    When writing a narrative essay, one might think of it as telling a story. These essays are often anecdotal, experiential, and personal—allowing students to express themselves in a creative and, quite often, moving ways. Here are some guidelines for writing a narrative essay. If written as a story, the essay should include all the parts of a ...

  19. How to write a Narrative Essay Outline: Prompts & Samples

    A professional essay writer should start working on the essay with a topic sentence. For example, "My inability to speak Spanish fluently was a major burden for me in the class". As there are many ways for the writer to begin the narrative story writing, the outline is written ensuring the chronological set of events. Essay Outline Details

  20. How to Write a Good Narrative Essay: Tips, Examples, & Step-by-Step Guide

    The more passionate you will be - the more effective your assignment. Recall your story's details: people and objects, setting, and season. Think about the sequence of events and remember; no detail is too small. Remember: the small details reveal big ideas! Step 1. Choose Your Narrative Essay Topic.

  21. Narrative Essay

    Plan the structure of your essay. Outline the sequence of events and decide how you will introduce your story, build the plot, and conclude. 3. Write a Strong Introduction: Start with a hook to grab the reader's attention. This could be a quote, a question, a vivid description, or an interesting fact.

  22. How to Write a Narrative Essay to Score Top Marks: Top Tips

    Narrative essay examples. You may use dozens of literacy narrative topics and other solutions for your paper. Here is a list of some ideas for you: ... Narrative essay outline: top prompts. Now that you know your paper's critical elements, it's time for a narrative essay outline. As a rule, it must have a chronological order and traditional ...

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    Mission. The Purdue On-Campus Writing Lab and Purdue Online Writing Lab assist clients in their development as writers—no matter what their skill level—with on-campus consultations, online participation, and community engagement. The Purdue Writing Lab serves the Purdue, West Lafayette, campus and coordinates with local literacy initiatives.

  24. The Best of Being a Teenager: a Personal Narrative

    Body Paragraph 1. One of the most cherished aspects of my teenage years was the sense of freedom and independence that gradually unfolded. Unlike childhood, where every step is often guided by parental oversight, the teenage years offered a taste of autonomy. This newfound freedom manifested in various ways, from making personal choices about ...

  25. The Best Day of My Life: a Personal Narrative

    These days are often marked by profound experiences, significant milestones, or moments of sheer joy. For me, the best day of my life was not just a day of personal achievement or a moment of happiness, but a day that fundamentally changed my perspective and shaped the trajectory of my future. This day was characterized by an amalgamation of ...

  26. My First Encounter with Basketball: A Personal Narrative: [Essay

    Body Paragraph 1. The day I first played basketball remains vividly etched in my memory. I was a twelve-year-old, awkwardly tall for my age and eager to try my hand at a sport that seemed to hold a magical allure. The local community center had organized a summer basketball camp, and my parents encouraged me to join.

  27. Timeless Lessons from Beowulf: Courage, Loyalty, and Mortality: [Essay

    Beowulf, an epic poem composed in Old English, remains a cornerstone of literature even in contemporary times. The narrative follows the titular hero, Beowulf, through his valiant efforts to protect the kingdom of the Danes from the monstrous Grendel, Grendel's revengeful mother, and a dragon that threatens his own homeland.

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  29. Personal Narrative Paper: I Fell in Love

    Love is a multifaceted emotion, often described as a blend of affection, passion, and commitment. It can be exhilarating yet terrifying, bringing both immense joy and profound vulnerability. While love has been the subject of countless literary works, songs, and philosophical discourses, the personal narrative of falling in love is uniquely ...