essay format nedir

Essay Nasıl Yazılır? Detaylı Anlatım

Essay yazmak; kriterleri öğrenildiğinde herkesin yazabileceği bir metin türüdür. Yazılan bir essay, daha sonra ilgili kanıtlarla desteklenen sağlam bir tartışma konusu yaratabilmelidir. Essay yazmadan önce yaptığınız araştırma, standart bir kural dizisini takip eder.

Essay yazmak için bazı temel ilkeleri hatırlamak, zaman sıkıntısı yaşıyor olsanız bile etkili ve akılda kalıcı metinler oluşturmanıza olanak tanır. Peki essay nasıl yazılır ? Essay yazma konusunda kendinizi nasıl geliştirebilirsiniz? Etkili bir essay yazmak ve essay yazma becerinizi geliştirmek için bilmeniz gereken bazı temel adımlar vardır. Bu yazımızda, bu soruların cevaplarını ele alacağız.

Essay Nasıl Yazılır?

1.Essay Türünüze Karar Verin

Essay yazmanın ilk adımı hangi essay türünde yazacağınıza karar vermektir. Pek çok essay türü vardır. Bunlardan bazıları şu şekildedir;

• Narrative essay:  Kişisel deneyimlerin hikaye anlatır gibi yazıldığı essay türüdür.
• Persuasive essay:  Yazıyı okuyan okuyuculara düşüncelerin güçlü argümanlarla kanıtlamaya çalışıldığı essay türüdür.
• Opinion essay:  Bir konu hakkında bakış açısını örneklerle belirtildiği essay türüdür.
• Cause-effect essay:  Bir konunun nedenlerinin ve sonuçlarının anlatıldığı essay türüdür.
• Compare-contrast essay:  Bu essay türünde iki benzer şeyi karşılaştırılarak bir argüman ortaya konulur.

2.Giriş–Gelişme ve Sonuç Bölümlerinin Olmasına Dikkat Edin

İngilizce essay yazılırken etkili bir giriş yapmalısınız okuyucu bu giriş yazısından etkilenip diğer bölümlere geçmek için istekli olabilsin. Her zaman başlagıçlar önemlidir etkili bir başlangıç içinse tavsiye olarak genelde bir paragraf olması önerilir. Karşıdakini sıkmayan içine alan bir giriş yazısı. Dikkat çekici bir başlangıç için essaye ilgi çekecek, tartışmalı bir alıntı ya da şaşırtıcı bir istatistiki bilgi ile başlayabilirsiniz. çok fazla ayrıntılı vermemelisiniz.

Gelişme bölümünde ise asıl konuya geçip açık ve net bir şekilde konunuzdan bahsetmelisiniz. farklı alıntılarla ve örneklerle ilgi çekici hale getirebilirsiniz.

Sonuç bölümüne geldiğinizde tüm yazıda bahsettiklerinizin kaba bir özeti olan bu paragraf yalnızca birkaç cümleden oluşmalıdır giriş bölümünde bahsettiğiniz ana fikri bu bölümde de yinelemelisiniz.

Yaptığınız alıntılar ve örnekler muhakkak konu ile uyumlu olmalıdır. Gelişme paragrafları yazınızın özünü oluşturmaktadır. Bol bol araştırma yapıp okuyarak  düşüncelerinizi en sağlam şekilde ortaya koymalısınız.

3.Konu Fikri Bulmak için Beyin Fırtınası Yapın

Konunuza karar veremediyseniz essay yazamazsınız. Konu bulmak konusunda kararsızsanız beyin fırtınası yapabilirsiniz. Tek yapmanız gereken, sakince oturup düşünmektir. Bu süreçte elinize bir kağıt kalem alıp aklınıza gelen fikirleri yazabilirsiniz. Beyin fırtınası konunuzu bulmanın yanında konuyla ilgili çeşitli bakış açıları edinmenize de yardımcı olacaktır.

4.Essay Yazmadan Önce Taslak Oluşturun

Bir essay yazmanın en önemli adımlarından birisi, o essay için bir taslak (outline) oluşturmaktır. Taslak oluşturmadan önce essayin ele aldığı konuyu tam olarak anlamanız oldukça önemlidir. Bir essay etkili bir şekilde ifade edilebilir ve düşünülebilir ancak konuyu yeterince yanıtlamazsa etkisiz bir metin olarak nitelendirilecektir. Yazacağınız essay için bir taslak oluştururken aşağıdaki konuları ele almanız sizin için büyük kolaylık sağlayacaktır:

• Essayin konusu nedir?
• Essayinizin kelime hacmi ne kadar olmalı?
• Konuyu tam olarak anlamak için ne tür bir araştırma yapmanız gerekir?

Bu aşamalardan sonra essayiniz için taslak oluşturmanın ilk adımını tamamlamış olursunuz. Sıradaki adım ise tüm metninize rehberlik edecek bir tez cümlesi (thesis statement) belirlemektir. Tez cümlesinden yola çıkarak, makalenizin nasıl ilerlemesi gerektiğini ve hangi bilgileri dahil etmek istediğinizi belirleyebilirsiniz.

Peki essayinizde ele alacağınız konu nedir? Tez cümleniz kısa olmalı ancak ele almak istediğiniz konuyu tüm ana hatları ile metninize dahil etmelidir. Makalenizi yazarken sürekli olarak tez cümlenize bakın ve konuyu ana hatlarından saptırmamaya özen gösterin.

Taslağı oluşturduktan sonra metninizi yazmaya başlayabilirsiniz. Genel olarak herkes essay yazmaya giriş (introduction) paragrafından başlar. Essay yazarken giriş paragrafından başlamak birçok insanın bildiği en büyük yanlışlardan birisidir. Essayinizi yazmaya gelişme (body) paragrafından başlamak size büyük avantaj sağlayacaktır. Metninizin akıcı olmasını istiyorsanız giriş paragrafını daha sonra yazmanız gerekir. Bu şekilde, düşüncelerinizi ve fikirlerinizi tam olarak oluşturabilir ve geri dönüp ana fikirleri giriş paragrafınız ile entegre edebilirsiniz.

5.Essayi Oluşturmadan Önce Ön Araştırma Yapın

Essay yazmadan önce yapacağınız ön araştırma, yazacağınız metin hakkında yeterince bilgi sahibi olmanıza yardımcı olur. Bu şekilde hem essayiniz etkili olacak hem de metninizi sağlam kanıtlarla yazmış olacaksınız.

Konuyla ilgili araştırma yaparken öncelikle essay yazacağınız konu ile ilgili makaleleri incelemek size artı puan kazandıracaktır. Konuyu nasıl savunacağınızı anladıktan sonra essay için bir giriş (introduction) ve sonuç (conclusion) paragrafı yazmanız gerekir.

Essay yazarken en çok gözden kaçan hususlardan birisi de sonuç paragrafıdır. Sonuç paragrafı, tez cümleniz ile tüm araştırmanızı birbirine bağlayan paragraftır. Sonuç paragrafı, tez cümlesiyle veya giriş paragrafı ile aynı olmamalıdır.

Uygun bir sonuç paragrafı, bir essayde tartışılan tüm olguların ana hatlarını ortaya koymalıdır. Bu olgular, kişinin araştırmasının ana argümanını nasıl kanıtladığını veya çürüttüğünü göstermek için doğrudan tez cümlesine bağlı olmalıdır. Tüm bunları destekleyecek nitelikli bir essay için ise ön araştırma ve bilgi sahibi olmak oldukça önemlidir.

6. Farklı kalıplar ve bağlaçlar kullanın

Essay yazarken çeşitli kalıp ve bağlaçlar kullanmanız yazınızı zenginleştirir. Kullanabileceğiniz bazı örnek kalıpları beraber inceleyelim;

• Like This: Bunun gibi
• What is more: Dahası
• On the other hand: Diğer taraftan
• For Instance: Örneğin
• Furthermore: Ayrıca
• In summary: Özetle
• In contrast: Aksine
• However: Ancak
• Consequently: Bu nedenle
• As a result: Sonuç olarak
• Generally: Genellikle
• Additionally: Ek olarak
• Such as: Gibi
• Therefore : Bu yüzden

Gelişme paragraflarında fikirlerinizi belirtmek için kullanabileceğiniz kalıplar ise şu şekilde olabilir;

• From my point of view: Benim görüşüme göre
• As far as I know : Bildiğim kadarıyla
• Another objection is that: Bir diğer karşıt görüş ise

Sonuç bölümünde ise aşağıdaki kalıpları kullanabilirsiniz;

• As a result : Sonuç olarak
• In conclusion: Son olarak
• To sum up: Toparlamak gerekirse

Bu Konu Dikkatinizi Çekebilir:  İngilizce Conjuctions (Bağlaçlar) Konu Anlatımı

7.Essayinizi Tekrar Okuyun

Yazdığınız essayi tekrar okumak harika bir essay oluşturmak için oldukça kritiktir. Birçok insan, dilbilgisi açısından zayıf veya yazım hatalarıyla dolu bir metni okumayı dahi tamamlamaz. Dilbilgisi ve yazım kurallarına uygun bir metin oluşturmak için ise her zaman essayinizi kontrol etmeniz gerekir. Konu hakkında bilgi sahibi olabilirsiniz ancak görüşlerinizi uygun bir yazı dili ile ifade etmezseniz, konu hakkındaki bilgileriniz dahi sorgulanabilir. Essayinizi kabul edilebilir ve etkili bir essay haline getirebileceğiniz birkaç madde aşağıdaki gibidir:

• Metninizi yazdırın, okuyun ve gördüğünüz hataları işaretleyin. Metninizi kâğıttan okuduğunuzda bilgisayar ekranında okuduğunuzdan daha detaylı okuyabilecek böylece hatalarınızı daha kolay fark edebileceksiniz.
• Dilbilgisi ve imla kuralları bilgisine güvendiğiniz birinin essayinizi okumasını sağlayın. İkinci bir göz, sizin göremediğiniz hataları fark edebilir.
• Essayinizi yüksek sesle okuyun. Bu şekilde, gramer hatalarınızı daha kolay fark edebilirsiniz.

Essay Türleri Nelerdir?

1- argumentative essay (tartışma yazısı).

Bu makale türünde spesifik bir konuya dair kişisel düşüncelerinizi sebepleri ile birlikte savunmalısınız. Bu  türde size belli bir konu başlığı veya soru verilerek sizden görüşünüzü savunduğunuz bir yazı yazmanız istenilir.

2- Compare and Contrast Essay (Karşılaştırma Yazısı)

Bu makale türünde size verilecek iki ya da daha fazla olguyu birbiriyle karşılaştıran bir yazı yazmanız istenilir. Her iki olgunun birbirine benzeyen tarafları, birbirinden zıt tarafları, birbirlerinden daha iyi ya da daha kötü oldukları noktalar, bu yazının ana hatlarını oluşturan konu başlıkları net bir şekilde olmalıdır.

3- Cause and Effect Essay (Neden-Sonuç Yazısı)

Bu makale türünde bir olgunun sebeplerini ve sonuçlarını tartışmanız ve sebeplerini sunmanız istenilir. Örneğin ‘‘Nesli tükenen hayvanları korumak için neler yapmalıyız‘‘ şeklinde bir soru verildiğinde önce nesli tükenen hayvanlardan bahsetmeliyiz daha sonra neden neslinin tükendiği konusuna değinmeli ve sebep sonuçlarından bahsetmeliyiz.

4- Opinion Essay (Düşünce Yazısı)

Bu makale türünde başarılı olmak için girişten itibaren fikrinizi kısa ve öz bir biçimde ifade ederek başlamanız gereklidir. Görüşlerinizi giriş paragrafında açıkça ifade ettikten sonra gelişme bölümünde bu fikri savunmanızın sebeplerinden bahsetmelisiniz ve bu düşünceye karşı geliştirilen olası  savunmalara cevaplar vermeniz ve sonuç bölümünde ise tartıştıklarınızı özet bir şekilde tekrar ederek fikrinizi belirtmelisiniz.

5- Advantage and Disadvantage Essay (Bir konunun olumlu ve olumsuz yönlerini tartıştığımız yazı)

Bu makale türünde sizden belli bir konu başlığının olumlu ve olumsuz yönlerinden bahsederek fayda ve zarar tartışması yapmanız istenilir. Bu tarz sorularda faydaları ve zararları ayrı paragraflarda sunmak ve üçüncü bir paragrafta bunları birbiri ile karşılaştırarak konu başlığına dair olumlu veya olumsuz bir sonuca varmak düzenli ve sistematik bir makale çıkarmanıza yardımcı olacaktır.

6- Problem Solution Essay (Problem Çözme Yazısı)

Bu yazı türünde sizden özellikle gündemi meşgul eden bir probleme çözüm getirmeniz istenilir. Örneğin: ‘How can we stop global warming?’ ‘Küresel ısınmayı nasıl durdurabiliriz?’. Bu problemin sebepleri ve sonuçlarının kısa bir değerlendirmesinin ardından konuya bir çözüm önerisi getirerek başarılı bir yazı oluşturabilirsiniz.

7- Process Essay (Süreç Yazısı)

Bu yazı türünde belli bir olayın veya belli bir sürede gelişen bir durumun aşamalarını anlattığınız bir yazı yazmanız beklenir. Örneğin, “How to make a cake” yani “Kek nasıl yapılır?”. Burada süreci kronolojik olarak ve ayrıntılı bir şekilde yazılı ifade etmeniz beklenir.

Bu Konu Dikkatinizi Çekebilir:  İngilizce Essay Konuları ve Türleri  

BukyTalk ekibi olarak bu yazımızda sizler için ‘‘Essay nasıl yazılır?’’, ‘‘Essay yazma becerisi nasıl geliştirilebilir?’’ , ‘‘Essay türleri nelerdir?‘‘ konuları hakkında çeşitli öneriler ve bilgiler sunduk. Siz değerli okurlarımız için faydalı olmasını diler, okuduğunuz için teşekkür ederiz. Daha fazla bilgilendirici içerik için bizi takip edin!

İngilizce Biyografi Örnekleri: İngilizce Biyografi Nasıl Yazılır?

İngilizce hikâye yazmanız için bilmeniz gereken 5 i̇pucu, detaylı i̇ngilizce cümle kurma rehberi, i̇ngilizce mektup yazmak için bilmeniz gerekenler ve i̇ngilizce mektup örnekleri, i̇ngilizce saatler nasıl yazılır ve nasıl okunur, i̇ngilizce kurumsal mail nasıl yazılır kurumsal mail örnekleri, i̇ngilizce günlük örnekleri: i̇ngilizce günlük nasıl yazılır, essay rehberi: i̇ngilizce opinion essay örnekleri, i̇ngilizce makale nasıl yazılır  , i̇ngilizce tarih yazma: i̇ngilizce tarihlerin yazılışları ve telaffuzları.

Deniz Çağbayır

En kolay i̇ngilizce dizilerle i̇ngilizce öğrenme, en çok kullanılan i̇ngilizce deyimler ve anlamları, i̇lgili yazılar.

İngilizce Başlangıç Seviyesindekilerin Bilmesi Gerekenler

İngilizce Belgeseller İngilizce Geliştirmek İçin En İyi Belgeseller

Örnek Cümleler ile Present Perfect Tense

İngilizce Konuşulan Avrupa Ülkeleri-12 Ülke

Çok faydalı biz yazı olmuş. Teşekkür ederim.

Faydalı bir içerik olmuş. Essay yazma ile alakalı güzel bilgiler var.

Teşekkürler, tam aradığım yazı, harikasınız

Bir yanıt yazın Yanıtı iptal et

E-posta adresiniz yayınlanmayacak. Gerekli alanlar * ile işaretlenmişlerdir

İnternet sitesi

Daha sonraki yorumlarımda kullanılması için adım, e-posta adresim ve site adresim bu tarayıcıya kaydedilsin.

Teşekkürler, ilgilenmiyorum.

WhatsApp us

• Ücret Politikası

Argumentative Essay Nasıl Yazılır [5 Essay Örnekleri ile Detaylı Anlatım]

Argumentative essay, nasıl yazılır sorusu öğrenciler için büyük önem taşımaktadır. Argumentative essay’in nasıl yapılandırılacağını ve yazılacağını anlamak, argumentative essay’i yazmaya başlamak için faydalı bir beceridir. Güçlü argumentative essay’ler, bir tartışmayı destekleyen ve okuyucuyu belirli bir görüşe ikna eden ilgili kanıtlar sunar. Bu tür bir essay, okuyucuya bir konunun tüm yönlerini kapsayan detaylı bir genel bakış sağlar, aynı zamanda okuyucuyu yazarın bakış açısına katılmaya ikna etmeye çalışır.

Argumentative essay nasıl yazılır sorusuna cevap olarak bu makale, konuyu bölümlere ayırıp adım adım argumentative bir essay’in nasıl yazılacağı argumentative essay örnekleri ile anlatacaktır. Bu makaleyi sabır ile okuyanlar, bu makalenin sonunda argumentative essay nasıl yazılır sorusunun cevabını alacaklardır. Bu konuda danışmanlık almak isterseniz bize sağ aşağıda bulunan mesaj butonundan, iletişim bölümünden ya da [email protected] adresinden ulaşabilirsiniz. Hadi başlayalım : )

İçindekiler

• 1 Argumentative Essay Nedir?
• 2.1 Essay’in introduction paragrafı ve bu paragrafın sonunda yer alan bir thesis statement yazılmalıdır.
• 2.2 Giriş, gövde ve sonuç paragrafları arasında açık ve mantıklı geçişler olmalıdır.
• 2.3 Ortaya sürülen argümanı destekleyen kanıtlar olmalıdır.
• 2.4 Argümanlar kanıtlarla desteklenmelidir.
• 2.5 Thesis statement’i tekrar ifade eden ve konuyu toparlayan bir conclusion paragrafı.
• 2.6 İyi Bir Argumentative Essay’de Neler Bulunur?
• 3 Argumentative Essay Kalıpları
• 4.1 Rogerian Arguments Argumentative Essay Nasıl Yazılır ve Örnekleri Nelerdir?
• 4.2 Toulmin Arguments Argumentative Essay Nasıl Yazılır ve Örnekleri Nelerdir?
• 5.1.1 Argumentative essay yazarken konuyu seçin ve bir thesis statement yazın.
• 5.1.2 Argumentative essay yazarken destekleyeceğiniz fikri araştırın ve bulduğunuz argümanları organize edin.
• 5.2.1 Argumentative essay introduction paragrafı
• 5.2.2 Argumentative essay body paragrafları
• 5.2.3 1. Kısım: Claim (İddia)
• 5.2.4 2. Kısım: Kanıt ve Açıklama
• 5.2.5 3. Kısım: Thesis statement’e tekrar bağlamak
• 5.2.6 Argumentative essay counter-argument paragrafı nasıl yazılır?
• 5.2.7 Argumentative essay refutation paragrafı nasıl yazılır?
• 5.2.8 Argumentative Essay conclusion paragrafı
• 6.1.1 Introduction paragrafı
• 6.1.2 Counter-argument paragrafı
• 6.1.3 Refutation/Response paragrafı
• 6.1.4 3. Body paragrafı
• 6.2 2. Argumentative Essay Örnekleri
• 7 Argumentative Essay Examples
• 8 Argumentative Essay Konuları

Argumentative Essay Nedir?

Argumentative essay’in amacı, nedenler ve destekleyici kanıtlar sunarak bir konu hakkında bir duruş veya pozisyon oluşturmaktır. İyi yazılmış bir tartışmacı makale:

• İlgi çekici bir konuyu tanıtıp ve okuyucunun ilgisi çekilmeye çalışılmalıdır;
• Konu tüm yönleriyle adil bir şekilde açıklanmalı ve değerlendirilmelidir;
• Olası karşı savlar ele alınmalıdır;
• Okuyucu yeni bir bakış açısını benimsemeye veya düşünmeye ikna edilmelidir.

Argumentative essay ile expository essay bazen birbirine karıştırılabiliyor. Bu iki tür benzerdir, ancak argumentative essay, essay’in yazılmasından önceki hazırlık aşamasında ve araştırmanın efsafı açısından expository essay’den farklıdır.

Argumentative essay, genellikle belirli bir essay yazma tecrübesi olan öğrenciler veya ileri essay derslerinde bir bitirme projesi olarak yazılır ve  ayrıntılı araştırmaları içerir. Expository essay ise daha az araştırma içerir ve daha kısadır.

Argumentative Essay Structure – Formatı

Argumentative essay ödevleri genellikle kapsamlı literatür araştırmasını veya dergilerde yayınlanmış essay’de kanıt olarak kullanılacak materyali gerektirir. Argumentative essay’ler, öğrencinin görüşmeler, anketler, gözlemler veya deneyler yoluyla veri topladığı deneysel araştırmayı da gerektirebilir.

Ayrıntılı araştırma, öğrencinin konu hakkında bilgi edinmesine ve konuyla ilgili farklı bakış açılarını anlamasına olanak tanır; ve öğrenci böylece bir savunacağı pozisyonu seçebilir ve araştırma sırasında toplanan kanıtlarla bu pozisyonu destekleyebilir.İlgili araştırmanın miktarı veya türü ne olursa olsun, argumentative essay destekleyeceği net bir tez oluşturmalı ve bu tezi sağlam kanıtlarla desteklemelidir.

Argümentative essay’in yapısı şu şekildedir:

• Introduction
• Fikrimizi savunduğumuz body paragrafı

Counter-argument paragrafı

• Refutation paragrafı

Conclusion paragrafı

Bu yapıyı biraz açacak olursak;

Essay’in introduction paragrafı ve bu paragrafın sonunda yer alan bir thesis statement yazılmalıdır.

Argumentative essay’in ilk paragrafında öğrenciler konuyu genel bir şekilde anlatarak okuyucuya bağlam hakkında fikir vermelidirler. Daha sonra öğrenci, yazacağı ve savunacağı konunun neden önemli olduğunu veya okuyucuların konuyu neden önemsemesi gerektiğini açıklamalıdır. Son olarak, öğrenci introduction paragrafının sonunda bir thesis statement yazmalıdır.

Bu thesis statement, ne çok geniş ne de çok dar olmalıdır; spesifik olmalıdır ve yanlışlanabilmelidir. Thesis statement nasıl yazılır öğrenmek istiyorsanız tıklayıp öğrenebilirsiniz. Öğrenci, makalenin bu bölümünde ustalaşmazsa, etkili veya ikna edici bir makale yazmak oldukça zor olacaktır.

Giriş, gövde ve sonuç paragrafları arasında açık ve mantıklı geçişler olmalıdır.

Geçişler, essay’in temelini bir arada tutan harçtır. Düşüncenin mantıksal ilerlemesi olmadan, okuyucu essay’in argümanını takip edemez ve yapı şöker. Geçişler, önceki bölümde anlatılan fikri tamamlamalı ve bir sonraki bölümde takip edecek olan fikri tanıtmalıdır.

Ortaya sürülen argümanı destekleyen kanıtlar olmalıdır.

Her paragraf bir genel fikrin tartışılmasıyla sınırlı olmalıdır. Bu, essay boyunca netlik ve yön sağlayacaktır. Ek olarak, her paragrafta bir argümanın tartışılması, essay’in okuyucusu için okunabiliği kolaylaştırır. Essay’in gövdesindeki (body paragrafı) her paragrafın, ilk paragrafındaki topic sentence’ın, thesis statement ile bir bağlantısı olması gerekir.

Bazı paragraflar, araştırma sırasında toplanan kanıtlarla thesis statement’i doğrudan destekleyecektir. Kanıtların thesis statement’i nasıl ve neden desteklediğini açıklamak da önemlidir.

Bununla birlikte, argumentative essay, konuyla ilgili farklı bakış açılarını da dikkate almalı ve açıklamalıdır. Ödevin uzunluğuna bağlı olarak, öğrenciler argumentative bir essay’in bir veya iki paragrafını konuyla ilgili çelişkili görüşleri tartışmaya ayırmalılar.

Öğrenciler, bu farklı görüşlerin nasıl yanlış olduğunu açıkça açıklamak yerine, tezleriyle uyuşmayan görüşlerin nasıl tam olarak doğru olmayabileceğine veya nasıl güncelliğini yitirmiş olabileceğine dikkat çekmelidir.

Argümanlar kanıtlarla desteklenmelidir.

Argumentative essay, thesis statement’i desteklemek ve diğer bakış açılarına dikkate çekmek için iyi araştırılmış, doğru, ayrıntılı ve güncel bilgiler gerektirir. Bazı olgusal, mantıksal, istatistiksel veya anekdotsal kanıtlar sunulan argümanları desteklemelidir. Ancak, öğrenciler argümanlarını savunmak için kanıt toplarken birden fazla bakış açısını dikkate almalıdır.

Yukarıdaki paragrafta belirtildiği gibi, başarılı ve çok yönlü bir argumentative essay, ana argüman ile uyuşmayan görüşleri de tartışacaktır. Ana argümanı desteklemeyebilecek kanıtları tartışmamak ve onlardan bahsetmemek argumentative essay’in kalitesiz olmasına ve düşük puan almasına neden olur.

Thesis statement’i tekrar ifade eden ve konuyu toparlayan bir conclusion paragrafı.

Öğrenciler bu noktada biraz zorlanabilirler. Conclusion paragrafı, essay’in makaleyi toparlayan ve okuyucunun zihninde son olarak yer eden kısımdır. Bu nedenle de, etkili ve mantıklı olmalıdır. Conclusion paragrafına yeni bir bilgi eklemeyin; bunun yerine, essay’in body paragraflarında sunulan bilgileri sentezleyin. Konunun neden önemli olduğunu yeniden belirtin, ana noktaları tekrar anlatın ve thesis statement’inizi paraphrase ederek tekrar yazın.

İyi Bir Argumentative Essay’de Neler Bulunur?

• Intoduction’da yer alan hook cümleleri
• Introduction’da yer alan ve konuyu hakkında bilgiler veren background bilgileri
• Introduction’da yer alan ve konuyu güzel bir şekilde özetleyen iyi bir thesis statement
• Thesis statement’i açıklayan body paragrafları
• Thesis statement’i destekleyen araştırmalar ve mantıksal bütünlük
• Thesis statement’i ve main idea’ları ve yan fikirleri destekleyen örnekler ve kanıtlar
• Tezimizi refute ettiğimiz refutation paragrafı

Argumentative Essay Kalıpları

Mesela toplum tarafından kabul görmüş ama çürüteceğimiz fikre giriş yaparken:

– “Despite of the fact that … supposed true for some, the fact is quite opposite instead” şeklinde bir giriş yapabiliriz. Despite of the fact that, in spite of the fact that bizim çok işimize yarayacak iki kalıp olacak.

Bunun yanı sıra:

• in addition,
• moreover gibi bağlaçlar,
• whereas the …. considered to be true gibi açılış cümleleri
• although – though – after all – at the same time – on the other hand gibi sözcükler bir fikirden diğerine atlarken bize yardımcı olacaktır.
• even if the OPPOSITION IDEA would be true, it needed to considered that
• although OPPOSITION IDEA might have a good point
• bearing in mind the OUR IDEA would be beneficial for the reasons that…

Argumentative Essay Türleri

Argumentative essay nesnel olmalıdır; argümanlarınız, abartıya kaçmamalı veya duygulara hitap etmemelidir, mantığa ve kanıtlara dayanmalıdır.

Argumentative essay’lere yönelik birçok olası yaklaşım vardır, ancak argümanlarınızı özetlemeye başlamanıza yardımcı olabilecek iki yaygın model vardır: Toulmin modeli ve Rogerian modeli.

Rogerian Arguments Argumentative Essay Nasıl Yazılır ve Örnekleri Nelerdir?

Rogerian arguments modeli essay’iniz boyunca tekrarlayabileceğiniz dört adımdan oluşur:

• Muhalif pozisyonun neyi doğru yaptığını ve insanların bu pozisyonu neden tutabileceğini tartışın
• Bu pozisyonla ilgili sorunları vurgulayın
• Bu sorunları nasıl çözdüğünü göstererek kendi konumunuzu sunun
• Muhtemel bir uzlaşma önerin – karşıt görüşün savunucuları, konumunuzun hangi unsurlarını benimsemekten fayda sağlar?

Bu model, bir tartışmanın her iki tarafının da net bir resmini oluşturur ve bir uzlaşma arar. İnsanların tartışılan konu üzerinde güçlü bir şekilde aynı fikirde olmama eğiliminde olduklarında Rogerian arguments essay özellikle yararlıdır ve karşıt argümanlara iyi niyetle yaklaşmanıza izin verir.

Civic ve responsible kapitalizmi savunacak bir essay yazacağımız düşünelim. Bu durumda aşağıdaki senaryo yazılabilir:

• Kapitalizmin verimliliği ve üretkenliği arttırdığını ortaya koyun
• Ama bunun yanı sıra kapitalizimin zenginlerin servetlerini arttırmalarına fakirlerin servetlerini arttırmalarından daha çok yardım ettiğini belirtin.
• Bu sorunun responsible ve civic bir kapitalizm ile çözülebileceğini ortaya koyun.
• Responsible ve civic bir kapitalizmin toplumun geneline yayılan bir refahı tetikleyeceği için tüketimi arttıracağını ve bunun da kapitalistlere yarayacağını ortaya koyun.

Toulmin Arguments Argumentative Essay Nasıl Yazılır ve Örnekleri Nelerdir?

Toulmin arguments modeli, argümanı savunmak için gerektiği kadar tekrar edilebilen dört adımdan oluşur:

• İddianızı ortaya atın
• İddianız için gerekçe (grounds) sağlayın
• Kanıtlarınızı (warrants) ve iddiayı nasıl desteklediğini açıklayın
• İddianın olası çürütücülerini (rebuttals) tartışın, argümanın sınırlarını belirleyin ve alternatif bakış açılarını düşündüğünüzü gösterin.

Toulmin arguments modeli, akademik makalelerde yaygın bir yaklaşımdır. Bu özel terimleri (grounds, warrants, rebuttals) kullanmak zorunda değilsiniz, ancak iddialarınız ile onları destekleyen kanıtlar arasında açık bir bağlantı kurmak, argumentative bir essay’de çok önemlidir.

Google’da cinsiyet ve ırk ayrımcılığını ortadan kaldırmak için Google tarafından finanse edilen ayrımcılık programının etkinliği hakkında bir argumentative essay yazdığınızı varsayalım. Bu durumda aşağıdaki senaryo kullanılabilir:

• Google’daki bu programın istenilen sonuçları vermediğini iddia edelim ve bu kaynağın daha iyi olarak hangi yollarla cinsiyet ve ırk ayrımcılığını ortadan kaldırmak için kullanılabileceğini ortaya koyalım.
• İddianızı desteklemek için verilerden ve başka araştırmalardan alıntı yapın
• Verilerin Google’ın yönteminin nasıl etkisiz olduğunu nasıl gösterdiğini açıklayın
• Ortaya koyduğunuz çözümlere karşı üretilebilecek olası fikirlere karşı argümanlar üretin

Bu modellerden birini seçmek zorunda değilsiniz – hatta her ikisinin öğelerini essay’lerinizin farklı bölümlerinde kullanabilirsiniz.

Hangi yaklaşımı seçerseniz seçin, essauy’iniz için her zaman bir introduction, body kısımları ve bir conclusion kullanılmalıdır.

Argumentative Essay Nasıl Yazılır?

Hazırlık aşaması, argumentative essay yazarken konuyu seçin ve bir thesis statement yazın..

Bir thesis statement, essay’inizin ana mesajının veya ana fikrinin bir veya iki cümlelik özetidir. Güçlü bir thesis statement, okuyucuya makalenin ne hakkında olduğunu söylediği için hayati önem taşır, böylece okuyucu okumak isteyip istemediğine karar verebilirler.

Güçlü bir thesis statement genellikle bir iddiayı, iddia konusundaki duruşunuzu ve seçtiğiniz konu içerisindeki duruşunuzu destekleyecek ana noktaları belirtir. Ayrıca, makalenin ana noktalarını yazarken sizin için bir kılavuz görevi görecektir.

Argumentative bir essay için konunuzu seçme özgürlüğü verildiyse, ilgi alanlarınızı takip etmek en iyisidir. Ancak çoğu insanın günlük görüşleri sağlam kanıtlarla desteklenmediği için dikkatli olunmalı ve düşünceleri destekleyecek kanıtlar bulunmalıdır. Ama çoğu durumda argumentative bir essay yazılacağı zaman, dersin öğretmeni belirli bir konu üzerine bu essay’in yazılmasını ister.

Bu durumda verilen argumentative essay sorusunu iyice okuyarak savunmak istediğiniz tarafı seçmeniz gerekir. Sonra bu düşünceyi destekeleyecek kanıtlar bulabilirsiniz. Ayrıca, önceden plan yaparsanız ve yazma sürecinde bu makaledeki ipuçlarını takip ederseniz, yazınızın geliştiğini göreceksiniz.

Argumentative essay yazarken destekleyeceğiniz fikri araştırın ve bulduğunuz argümanları organize edin.

Essay’i yazarken ekrana bakıp duruyorsanız bunun iki nedeni vardır. İlki, ne yazacağınız hakkında bi fikriniz yoksa büyük ihtimalle yeteri kadar araştırma yapmamışsınızdır; ikincisi de büyük ihtimalle thesis statement’inizden ve bunları destekleyen fikirlerden emin değilsinizdir.

Bir essay’i planlamak, özellikle argumentative bir essay için çok önemlidir çünkü sağlam kanıtlarla savunmanız gereken bir argüman sunuyorsunuz. Araştırmanız, güvenilir kaynaklar ve endüstri uzmanları tarafından hazırlanan her türlü referans kaynağı ve materyali (kitaplar, dergiler, makaleler, bloglar, belgeseller) içermelidir. Araştırma yaparken şunları aklınızda bulundurun:

• Meydana gelen veya meydana gelmekte olan ana tartışmalar, argümanlar ve karşı argümanlar ve alandaki ana uzmanlar dahil olmak üzere konuya ilişkin iyi bir genel bakışa sahip olduğunuzdan emin olmak için kapsamlı bir şekilde argumentative essay topics okuyun.
• Açık fikirli olun ve konulara farklı bireyler ve paydaşların bakış açısından bakmaya çalışın. Bu görüşleri kabul etmek ve essay’inizde bunlara değinmek, dengeli bir essay’e sahip olmanızı sağlayacaktır.
• Henüz tam olarak keşfedilmemiş olabilecek benzersiz açılara dikkat edin.

Google’dan ve üniversitenizin database’lerinden argumentative essay’inize fikrinizi desteklemek için kaynak bulabileceğinizi unutmayın. Yeterli materyale sahip olduğunuzu hissettiğinizde bir sonraki adıma geçmenizi öneririz; daha sonra ihtiyacınız olursa her zaman daha fazla araştırma yapabilirsiniz.

Argumentative Essay Yazmaya Başlama Aşaması

Argumentative essay örnekleri verirken, bu bölümde, ilk olarak introduction paragrafını inceleyeceğiz. Siz de burada verdiğimiz örnek gibi argumentative essay yazmak isterseniz, Essay Sepeti’nin uzman hocalarının sizler için hazırladığı argumentative essay outline kullanarak siz de kolayca argumentative essay yazabilirsiniz.

Argumentative essay introduction paragrafı

Bu paragrafta ilk yapacağımız şey konu hakkında background information vermektir. Opening statement’iniz, dikkati çekmeye, yani hook atmaya, veya okuyucuyu bağlamaya çalıştığınız yerdir. Bu opening statement ve argumentative essay hook kısmı, daha sonra konuyla ilgili tarafınızı belirlediğiniz background’unuza ve thesis statement’iniza sorunsuz bir geçiş görevi görür.

Hook kısmına, yaygın olarak bilinmeyen ve şaşırtıcı bir istatistikle başlayabilirsiniz. Burada yaratıcı olabilirsiniz, ancak yine de bilimsel veya akademik yazı normlarına uyduğunuzdan emin olun. Bu, kişisel anekdotlar veya ilham verici alıntılar vb. anlamına gelmez.

Ardından, okuyucuları essay’inizin geri kalanına hazırlamak için konunuz hakkında background information olarak görev görecek ve konunuzun hakkında okuyuculara bilgi sağlayacak bölümü yazabilirsiniz. Aşağıdaki soruları yanıtlayarak bu bölümde okuyucunun ilgisini çekebilirsiniz:

• Bu konu neden önemli?
• Bu sorunun temel nedenleri nelerdir?
• Kim veya ne etkilenir?
• Herhangi bir çözüm var mı?
• Bu konuda ne yapılabilir veya yapılmalıdır?

Örneğin, konu işyerindeki cinsiyet eşitsizliği ise, aynı görevi yapan ortalama bir erkek ve kadının gelir farkını örnekleyen araştırmalardan elde edilen istatistikleri paylaşabilirsiniz. Bu introduction paragrafından sonra artık body paragraflarına geçebiliriz.

Argumentative essay body paragrafları

Öncelikle argümanımızı savunduğumuz paragrafı görelim.

Argümanınız için sahip olduğunuz her destekleyici noktaya bir paragraf ayırmak en iyisidir. Tüm bağımsız değişkenler veya body paragrafları her zaman aşağıdaki üç bölümü içermelidir:

1. Kısım: Claim (İddia)

Bir claim, iddianızı desteklemek için yaptığınız bir açıklamadır. Claim, temel olarak thesis statement’ınızın neden doğru olduğunu kanıtlayan bir iddiadır.

Applying sin tax to products based on the amount of sugar will directly reduce the excessive consumption of heavily sugary products amongst consumers.

2. Kısım: Kanıt ve Açıklama

Yapılan her claim, ilgili kanıtlarla ve bu kanıtların claim’inizi nasıl desteklediğinin açıklamasıyla desteklenmelidir. Burası, araştırmanızın bulgularını güvenilir kaynaklardan desteklediğiniz yerdir.

Case study of where sin tax resulted in lower consumption.

The Measure D soda tax was approved by 76% of Berkeley voters on 4 November 2014 and took effect on 1 January 2015 as the first such tax in the United States. The measure imposes a tax of one cent per ounce on the distributors of specified sugar-sweetened beverages such as soda, sports drinks, energy drinks, and sweetened iced teas. In August 2016, a UC Berkeley study showed a 21% drop in the drinking of soda and sugary beverages in low-income Berkeley neighbourhoods after a few months showing that the sin tax was lowering consumption of sugary drinks.

3. Kısım: Thesis statement’e tekrar bağlamak

Bu kısım bir sin tax’ın şekerli içeceklere (sugary drinks) bir vergi (tax) uygulamanın şeker bazlı içeceklerin tüketimini düşürmede yardımcı olacağını gösteren kısımdır.

Argumentative essay counter-argument paragrafı nasıl yazılır?

Bu paragrafta, paragraf yapısını ilk body paragrafında olduğu gibi koruyoruz. Ama bu paragrafta fikrimizin tam karşıtı olan fikri savunuyoruz. Bizim argümanımız “şeker tüketimine vergi koyarsak şeker tüketiminin düşeceği” idi. Bu paragrafta ise bunun tam tersini savunuyoruz. Bunu savunurken de iddiamızı yapıyoruz, bunu kanıtlarla ve örneklerle destekliyoruz ve tekrar thesis statement’e bağlayıp paragrafı bitiriyoruz.

Argumentative essay refutation paragrafı nasıl yazılır?

Refutation, bir makalenin karşıt argümanları çürüten kısmıdır. Argumentative bir essay’de temel argümanımızı reddeden argümanları (counter-argument) çürütmek gerekir. Refutation paragrafını formüle etmenin yöntemi, counter-argument’lara gelebilecek itirazlarının ne olabileceğini hayal ederek kendinizi okuyucularınızın yerine koymaktır.

Argumentative Essay conclusion paragrafı

Bu paragrafta introduction’ın thesis statement’inde ortaya koyduğumuz fikri tekrarlayıp body paragfralarında değindiğimiz konulardan özet alıp bitiriyoruz.

Argumentative essay nasıl yazılır?

Argumentative Essay Örnekleri

Bu bölümde sizlere argumentative essay örnekleri vereceğiz. Siz de yukarıda anlattığımız bilgileri bu argumentative essay örnekleri üzerinde görebilir ve onları inceleyebilirsiniz.

1. Argumentative Essay Örneği

Introduction paragrafı.

• Background information
• Thesis statement :  Employers should give their workers the option to work from home to  reduce office costs and enhance employee well-being.
• Distractions at home > could make it hard to focus
• Dishonest/lazy individuals might work less since no one is watching

Refutation/Response paragrafı

• Study: Productivity increased by 14%
• Akademik kaynaklardan kanıtlar

3. Body paragrafı

• Topic sentence: In addition, individuals who work from home have improved well-being.

4. Body paragrafı

• Topic sentence: Furthermore, firms can decrease their expenses by allowing employees to work at home.
• Ana argümanların özeti
• Thesis statement’in tekrar edilmesi

2. Argumentative Essay Örnekleri

Konunun pekiştirilmesi adına size bir argumentative essay örneği daha veriyoruz.

Argumentative essay örnekleri – Essay Sepeti

Argumentative essay örneği

Argumentative essay örnekleri

Argumentative Essay Examples

Yukarıda bahsettiğimiz argumentative essay örneği argumentative essay examples konusu içinde değerlendirilebilir. Argumentative essay türü tarışmalı konuları açığa cıkarmak ve bir fikri öne sunmak için yazılır. Bu essay türünde bir PRO bir CON bir de refutation paragrafı olur.

Bazı hocalar refutation ve CON paragraflarını aynı paragraf içinde ister. Refutation ise PRO paragrafında savunduğumuz görüşün tam olarak zıddını savunmaktır. Mesela PRO paragrafında bayraklar kırmızıdır demişsek refutation paragrafında bayraklar kırmızı değildir demeliyiz, yani tam tersini savunmalıyız. CON paragfında ise sarı bayraklar da var diyebiliriz ama refutation kısmında tam tersini söylemeliyiz.

Argumentative Essay Konuları

Argumentative essay türü tartışmalı konuları açığa çıkarmak ve bir fikri öne sunmak için yazılır. Yani;

• çocuklara ölüm cezası verilip verilmemesi,
• televizyonun iyi ve kötü etkileri,
• küreselleşmenin sonuçları,
• ekonominin insanlar üzerindeki etkileri,
• oyunlar ve etkileri,
• ırklar arası evlilik,
• dinler arası evlilik,
• modanın güzel giyinmek mi yoksa tüketim kültürü mü olduğu,
• medyanın insanlar üzerindeki etkisi,
• kadınların abortion hakları

gibi konularda yazılabilir.

Buraya kadar okuduysanız size bir kıyağımız var 🙂 Anlamadığınız kısımları bu yazının altına sorabilirsiniz. Bekliyoruz.

Purdue Online Writing Lab Purdue OWL® College of Liberal Arts

Expository Essays

Welcome to the Purdue OWL

This page is brought to you by the OWL at Purdue University. When printing this page, you must include the entire legal notice.

Copyright ©1995-2018 by The Writing Lab & The OWL at Purdue and Purdue University. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, reproduced, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed without permission. Use of this site constitutes acceptance of our terms and conditions of fair use.

What is an expository essay?

The expository essay is a genre of essay that requires the student to investigate an idea, evaluate evidence, expound on the idea, and set forth an argument concerning that idea in a clear and concise manner. This can be accomplished through comparison and contrast, definition, example, the analysis of cause and effect, etc.

Please note : This genre is commonly assigned as a tool for classroom evaluation and is often found in various exam formats.

The structure of the expository essay is held together by the following.

• A clear, concise, and defined thesis statement that occurs in the first paragraph of the essay.

It is essential that this thesis statement be appropriately narrowed to follow the guidelines set forth in the assignment. If the student does not master this portion of the essay, it will be quite difficult to compose an effective or persuasive essay.

• Clear and logical transitions between the introduction, body, and conclusion.

Transitions are the mortar that holds the foundation of the essay together. Without logical progression of thought, the reader is unable to follow the essay’s argument, and the structure will collapse.

• Body paragraphs that include evidential support.

Each paragraph should be limited to the exposition of one general idea. This will allow for clarity and direction throughout the essay. What is more, such conciseness creates an ease of readability for one’s audience. It is important to note that each paragraph in the body of the essay must have some logical connection to the thesis statement in the opening paragraph.

• Evidential support (whether factual, logical, statistical, or anecdotal).

Often times, students are required to write expository essays with little or no preparation; therefore, such essays do not typically allow for a great deal of statistical or factual evidence.

• A bit of creativity!

Though creativity and artfulness are not always associated with essay writing, it is an art form nonetheless. Try not to get stuck on the formulaic nature of expository writing at the expense of writing something interesting. Remember, though you may not be crafting the next great novel, you are attempting to leave a lasting impression on the people evaluating your essay.

• A conclusion that does not simply restate the thesis, but readdresses it in light of the evidence provided.

It is at this point of the essay that students will inevitably begin to struggle. This is the portion of the essay that will leave the most immediate impression on the mind of the reader. Therefore, it must be effective and logical. Do not introduce any new information into the conclusion; rather, synthesize and come to a conclusion concerning the information presented in the body of the essay.

A complete argument

Perhaps it is helpful to think of an essay in terms of a conversation or debate with a classmate. If I were to discuss the cause of the Great Depression and its current effect on those who lived through the tumultuous time, there would be a beginning, middle, and end to the conversation. In fact, if I were to end the exposition in the middle of my second point, questions would arise concerning the current effects on those who lived through the Depression. Therefore, the expository essay must be complete, and logically so, leaving no doubt as to its intent or argument.

The five-paragraph Essay

A common method for writing an expository essay is the five-paragraph approach. This is, however, by no means the only formula for writing such essays. If it sounds straightforward, that is because it is; in fact, the method consists of:

• an introductory paragraph
• three evidentiary body paragraphs
• a conclusion

Choose Your Test

Sat / act prep online guides and tips, the 3 popular essay formats: which should you use.

General Education

Not sure which path your essay should follow? Formatting an essay may not be as interesting as choosing a topic to write about or carefully crafting elegant sentences, but it’s an extremely important part of creating a high-quality paper. In this article, we’ll explain essay formatting rules for three of the most popular essay styles: MLA, APA, and Chicago.

For each, we’ll do a high-level overview of what your essay’s structure and references should look like, then we include a comparison chart with nitty-gritty details for each style, such as which font you should use for each and whether they’re a proponent of the Oxford comma. We also include information on why essay formatting is important and what you should do if you’re not sure which style to use.

Why Is Your Essay Format Important?

Does it really matter which font size you use or exactly how you cite a source in your paper? It can! Style formats were developed as a way to standardize how pieces of writing and their works cited lists should look. 

Why is this necessary? Imagine you’re a teacher, researcher, or publisher who reviews dozens of papers a week. If the papers didn’t follow the same formatting rules, you could waste a lot of time trying to figure out which sources were used, if certain information is a direct quote or paraphrased, even who the paper’s author is. Having essay formatting rules to follow makes things easier for everyone involved. Writers can follow a set of guidelines without trying to decide for themselves which formatting choices are best, and readers don’t need to go hunting for the information they’re trying to find.

Next, we’ll discuss the three most common style formats for essays.

MLA Essay Format

MLA style was designed by the Modern Language Association, and it has become the most popular college essay format for students writing papers for class. It was originally developed for students and researchers in the literature and language fields to have a standardized way of formatting their papers, but it is now used by people in all disciplines, particularly humanities. MLA is often the style teachers prefer their students to use because it has simple, clear rules to follow without extraneous inclusions often not needed for school papers. For example, unlike APA or Chicago styles, MLA doesn’t require a title page for a paper, only a header in the upper left-hand corner of the page.

MLA style doesn’t have any specific requirements for how to write your essay, but an MLA format essay will typically follow the standard essay format of an introduction (ending with a thesis statement), several body paragraphs, and a conclusion.

One of the nice things about creating your works cited for MLA is that all references are structured the same way, regardless of whether they’re a book, newspaper, etc. It’s the only essay format style that makes citing references this easy! Here is a guide on how to cite any source in MLA format. When typing up your works cited, here are a few MLA format essay rules to keep in mind:

• The works cited page should be the last paper of your paper.
• This page should still be double-spaced and include the running header of your last name and page number.
• It should begin with “Works Cited” at the top of the page, centered.
• Your works cited should be organized in alphabetical order, based on the first word of the citation.

APA Essay Format

APA stands for the American Psychological Association. This format type is most often used for research papers, specifically those in behavioral sciences (such as psychology and neuroscience) and social sciences (ranging from archeology to economics). Because APA is often used for more research-focused papers, they have a more specific format to follow compared to, say, MLA style.

All APA style papers begin with a title page, which contains the title of the paper (in capital letters), your name, and your institutional affiliation (if you’re a student, then this is simply the name of the school you attend). The APA recommends the title of your paper not be longer than 12 words.

After your title page, your paper begins with an abstract. The abstract is a single paragraph, typically between 150 to 250 words, that sums up your research. It should include the topic you’re researching, research questions, methods, results, analysis, and a conclusion that touches on the significance of the research. Many people find it easier to write the abstract last, after completing the paper.

After the abstract comes the paper itself. APA essay format recommends papers be short, direct, and make their point clearly and concisely. This isn’t the time to use flowery language or extraneous descriptions. Your paper should include all the sections mentioned in the abstract, each expanded upon.

Following the paper is the list of references used. Unlike MLA style, in APA essay format, every source type is referenced differently. So the rules for referencing a book are different from those for referencing a journal article are different from those referencing an interview. Here’s a guide for how to reference different source types in APA format . Your references should begin on a new page that says “REFERENCES” at the top, centered. The references should be listed in alphabetical order.

Chicago Essay Format

Chicago style (sometimes referred to as “Turabian style”) was developed by the University of Chicago Press and is typically the least-used by students of the three major essay style formats. The Chicago Manual of Style (currently on its 17th edition) contains within its 1000+ pages every rule you need to know for this style. This is a very comprehensive style, with a rule for everything. It’s most often used in history-related fields, although many people refer to The Chicago Manual of Style for help with a tricky citation or essay format question. Many book authors use this style as well.

Like APA, Chicago style begins with a title page, and it has very specific format rules for doing this which are laid out in the chart below. After the title page may come an abstract, depending on whether you’re writing a research paper or not. Then comes the essay itself. The essay can either follow the introduction → body → conclusion format of MLA or the different sections included in the APA section. Again, this depends on whether you’re writing a paper on research you conducted or not.

Unlike MLA or APA, Chicago style typically uses footnotes or endnotes instead of in-text or parenthetical citations. You’ll place the superscript number at the end of the sentence (for a footnote) or end of the page (for an endnote), then have an abbreviated source reference at the bottom of the page. The sources will then be fully referenced at the end of the paper, in the order of their footnote/endnote numbers. The reference page should be titled “Bibliography” if you used footnotes/endnotes or “References” if you used parenthetical author/date in-text citations.

Comparison Chart

Below is a chart comparing different formatting rules for APA, Chicago, and MLA styles.

How Should You Format Your Essay If Your Teacher Hasn’t Specified a Format?

What if your teacher hasn’t specified which essay format they want you to use? The easiest way to solve this problem is simply to ask your teacher which essay format they prefer. However, if you can’t get ahold of them or they don’t have a preference, we recommend following MLA format. It’s the most commonly-used essay style for students writing papers that aren’t based on their own research, and its formatting rules are general enough that a teacher of any subject shouldn’t have a problem with an MLA format essay. The fact that this style has one of the simplest sets of rules for citing sources is an added bonus!

What's Next?

Thinking about taking an AP English class? Read our guide on AP English classes to learn whether you should take AP English Language or AP English Literature (or both!)

Compound sentences are an importance sentence type to know. Read our guide on compound sentences for everything you need to know about compound, complex, and compound-complex sentences.

Need ideas for a research paper topic? Our guide to research paper topics has over 100 topics in ten categories so you can be sure to find the perfect topic for you.

Christine graduated from Michigan State University with degrees in Environmental Biology and Geography and received her Master's from Duke University. In high school she scored in the 99th percentile on the SAT and was named a National Merit Finalist. She has taught English and biology in several countries.

Student and Parent Forum

Our new student and parent forum, at ExpertHub.PrepScholar.com , allow you to interact with your peers and the PrepScholar staff. See how other students and parents are navigating high school, college, and the college admissions process. Ask questions; get answers.

Ask a Question Below

Have any questions about this article or other topics? Ask below and we'll reply!

Improve With Our Famous Guides

• For All Students

The 5 Strategies You Must Be Using to Improve 160+ SAT Points

How to Get a Perfect 1600, by a Perfect Scorer

Series: How to Get 800 on Each SAT Section:

Score 800 on SAT Math

Score 800 on SAT Reading

Score 800 on SAT Writing

Series: How to Get to 600 on Each SAT Section:

Score 600 on SAT Math

Score 600 on SAT Reading

Score 600 on SAT Writing

Free Complete Official SAT Practice Tests

What SAT Target Score Should You Be Aiming For?

15 Strategies to Improve Your SAT Essay

The 5 Strategies You Must Be Using to Improve 4+ ACT Points

How to Get a Perfect 36 ACT, by a Perfect Scorer

Series: How to Get 36 on Each ACT Section:

36 on ACT English

36 on ACT Math

36 on ACT Reading

36 on ACT Science

Series: How to Get to 24 on Each ACT Section:

24 on ACT English

24 on ACT Math

24 on ACT Reading

24 on ACT Science

What ACT target score should you be aiming for?

ACT Vocabulary You Must Know

ACT Writing: 15 Tips to Raise Your Essay Score

How to Get Into Harvard and the Ivy League

How to Get a Perfect 4.0 GPA

How to Write an Amazing College Essay

What Exactly Are Colleges Looking For?

Is the ACT easier than the SAT? A Comprehensive Guide

Should you retake your SAT or ACT?

When should you take the SAT or ACT?

Stay Informed

Get the latest articles and test prep tips!

Looking for Graduate School Test Prep?

Check out our top-rated graduate blogs here:

GRE Online Prep Blog

GMAT Online Prep Blog

TOEFL Online Prep Blog

Holly R. "I am absolutely overjoyed and cannot thank you enough for helping me!”

How to Write a Descriptive Essay

Working on a descriptive essay is like handing your reader a pair of magical glasses – it allows them to see, feel, and experience what you're describing. It's not just about listing facts – it's about immersing your reader in a sensory adventure. Fun fact: Studies show that our brains respond to vivid imagery as if we're actually experiencing the described scene. So, by painting a detailed picture with your words, you're not just telling a story – you're triggering a sensory response in your reader's brain, making the whole experience more memorable and engaging. It's like turning your essay into a mini-vacation for your reader's mind. In this article, students who haven’t delegated their tasks to essay writers yet will find a detailed explanation of descriptive writing with the definition, tips, and examples. Stay tuned!

What Is a Descriptive Essay

A descriptive essay is a form of writing that employs vivid language and sensory details to create a vivid picture or experience for the reader. Unlike other types of essays that may focus on analyzing, persuading, or narrating, the primary goal of this type of an essay is to paint a compelling and detailed picture in the reader's mind. It often involves the writer using descriptive words, metaphors, and other literary devices to convey a sensory experience, allowing the reader to visualize, feel, hear, smell, and taste what is being described. The purpose is to evoke a strong emotional response and engage the reader's imagination, making them feel like they are part of the depicted scene or moment.

In this type of an essay, the writer carefully selects and organizes details to convey a specific impression or mood. The subject matter can range from a personal experience to observing a place, event, or object. The effectiveness lies in the writer's ability to create a vivid and immersive experience, enabling the reader to connect with the described subject on a deeper level. Ultimately, a well-executed descriptive essay leaves a lasting impression by bringing words to life and making the reader experience the depicted elements in a tangible and memorable way. You can also consult a reflection paper example for additional writing hints.

Need Some Help?

You will get your written masterpiece delivered to you on time, with a smile on your face!

Description vs. Descriptive Essay

Description and descriptive essays are related concepts, but they differ in scope and form. Description is a broader term that refers to the act of detailing the characteristics or features of something, someone, or a specific situation. It can be a component of various types of writing, not limited to essays. Description can be found in narratives, expository writing, and even technical or scientific writing, where clarity and precision in detailing are crucial. In essence, description is a tool used in writing to enhance understanding and create a vivid mental image.

On the other hand, a descriptive essay is a specific genre of writing that focuses entirely on painting a comprehensive and detailed picture using descriptive language. It is a more concentrated form of expression, where the writer's primary objective is to engage the reader's senses and emotions. Our custom writers suggest that a descriptive essay typically centers around a particular theme, experience, or subject, and it employs vivid imagery, figurative language, and sensory details to create a captivating narrative. Unlike a simple description, a descriptive essay has a more structured and narrative-oriented format, often with an introduction, body paragraphs, and a conclusion.

What to Describe in Your Essay

You have the opportunity to portray a particular subject vividly, and the key is to engage the reader's senses and imagination. Here are some ideas on what you can describe:

• Scenic Locations. Transport your reader to a specific place – a serene beach, a bustling city street, a lush forest, or an ancient castle. Describe the sights, sounds, smells, and feelings associated with that location.
• Memorable Experiences. Share a personal experience that left a lasting impression on you. It could be a significant event, a life-changing moment, or even a routine activity that holds special meaning.
• People. Describe a person who has had a profound impact on your life or someone you find intriguing. Focus not only on their physical appearance but also on their personality, quirks, and the emotions they evoke.
• Objects. Choose a specific object, whether it's a cherished possession, a historical artifact, or something mundane yet interesting. Explore its significance and how it makes you feel.
• Seasons and Weather. Capture the essence of a particular season or weather condition. Whether it's the warmth of a summer day, the crispness of autumn, or the sound of raindrops on a window – make the reader feel the atmosphere.
• Animals or Pets. Bring to life a beloved pet or an encounter with a fascinating animal. Describe their appearance, behavior, and the emotions they evoke in you.
• Cultural Events. Attend a cultural event, festival, or celebration, and describe the vibrant colors, sounds, and traditions. Explore how these events make you feel and their cultural significance.
• Art and Creativity. Choose a piece of art, a sculpture, or a creative work that captivates you. Dive into the details, uncovering the emotions it evokes and its impact on your perception.

Today, you can request help with dissertation or any other written assignment, such as an essay, from competent writers with years of academic experience.

Two Approaches to Writing a Descriptive Essay

There are generally two primary approaches to writing a descriptive essay, each emphasizing a different aspect of the subject. These approaches help shape the overall tone and purpose of the essay:

Objective Approach. In the objective approach, the writer strives to provide a detailed and accurate portrayal of the subject without injecting personal emotions or opinions. This method is often employed in academic and technical writing. The focus is on presenting an unbiased, factual description that allows readers to form their own opinions. For example, if describing a historical monument, the writer would focus on architectural details, historical context, and other observable features without interjecting personal feelings.

Subjective Approach. Conversely, the subjective approach encourages the writer to infuse personal experiences, emotions, and opinions into the description. This approach is often used in creative writing, personal narratives, or essays that aim to evoke specific emotions in the reader. When using a subjective approach, the writer might vividly describe how the subject makes them feel, drawing on personal memories and sensory experiences. For instance, if describing a favorite childhood place, the writer might delve into nostalgic emotions and memories associated with that location.

The choice between these approaches depends on the writer's goals and the intended impact on the reader. Some essays may even blend elements of both approaches, providing factual details while also conveying the writer's emotional connection to the subject. The key is to be intentional in choosing the approach that best serves the purpose of the descriptive essay. Or, you can buy cheap essay to avoid the trouble now and save valuable free time.

Descriptive Essay Topics

Choosing topics for descriptive essay can greatly benefit students by helping them improve their writing skills and unleash their creativity. These assignments allow students to dive deep into a subject and practice using colorful language, vivid descriptions, and creative imagery. By focusing on details, students learn to observe the world around them more closely and appreciate the nuances of their surroundings. 

Exploring various topics also allows students to expand their knowledge and understanding of different cultures, experiences, and environments, fostering empathy and a broader perspective. In essence, topics provide students with a valuable opportunity to develop their writing abilities while gaining a deeper appreciation for the power of language and observation.

• A day at the beach.
• My favorite childhood memory.
• The cozy corner of my room.
• A rainy day in the park.
• The bustling farmer's market.
• An unforgettable family gathering.
• The charming old bookstore.
• My pet's quirky habits.
• The perfect pizza slice.
• Sunrise over the city.
• A peaceful forest glade.
• The hectic school cafeteria.
• A quiet Sunday morning.
• Exploring a hidden trail.
• The enchanting winter wonderland.
• The lively street fair.
• Inside Grandma's kitchen.
• A colorful autumn day.
• My favorite room in the house.
• The first day of school.
• A historic landmark in my town.
• Sunset on the lakeshore.
• The adorable neighborhood coffee shop.
• A vibrant street art mural.
• My most comfortable outfit.
• The quaint village square.
• A walk through the botanical garden.
• The excitement of a carnival.
• A quirky antique shop.
• Sunday afternoon picnic.

If you need more ideas, consult our guide on narrative essay topics .

Descriptive Essay Outline

An outline for a descriptive essay serves as a roadmap for organizing and structuring the content of your essay to ensure a coherent and engaging narrative. Here's a simple breakdown of the typical components of an outline:

Descriptive Essay Introduction

• Hook. Begin with a captivating opening sentence to grab the reader's attention.
• Thesis Statement. Clearly state the main idea or purpose of your essay.

Body Paragraphs (usually three to four)

• Topic Sentence. Start each paragraph with a clear topic sentence that introduces the main point.
• Details and Descriptions. Elaborate on the topic sentence by providing vivid and specific details, using sensory language to engage the reader's senses.
• Transitions. Use smooth transitions between paragraphs to maintain the flow of the essay.
• Restate Thesis. Recap the main idea of the essay without introducing new information.
• Summarize Key Points. Briefly revisit the main details discussed in the body paragraphs.
• Closing Statement. End with a concluding thought that leaves a lasting impression or provokes further reflection.

Review and Revise

• Check for Consistency. Ensure that your descriptions are consistent and align with the overall theme.
• Grammar and Style. Review your essay for grammatical errors and refine your writing style.
• Peer Review. If possible, seek feedback from others to gain different perspectives on your essay.

Remember, this is a flexible writing framework, and the number of body paragraphs can vary based on the specific requirements of your assignment. The key to how to write a descriptive essay is to maintain a logical and organized structure that guides the reader through a rich and immersive experience of the subject you're describing.

Stages of Writing a Descriptive Essay

Writing a descriptive essay involves several stages, each crucial to the development of a vivid and engaging narrative. Here's an overview of the key stages:

• Choose a Topic. Select a subject that is meaningful, interesting, and conducive to detailed description.
• Brainstorming. Generate ideas related to the chosen topic, jotting down sensory details, emotions, and specific experiences associated with it.
• Thesis Statement. Develop a clear thesis statement that conveys the main purpose or impression you want to leave with your readers.
• Introduction. Craft an engaging introduction that hooks the reader and includes the thesis statement.
• Body Paragraphs. Develop each paragraph around a specific aspect of your topic, providing detailed descriptions and utilizing sensory language.
• Organization. Arrange your paragraphs logically, using a chronological, spatial, or thematic structure to guide the reader through the experience.
• Transition Sentences. Use transitional sentences to ensure a smooth flow between paragraphs and ideas.
• Content Review. Evaluate the effectiveness of your descriptions, ensuring they contribute to the overall theme and purpose of the essay.
• Clarity and Coherence. Check for clarity and coherence in your writing, ensuring that readers can follow your narrative easily.
• Sensory Language. Enhance the use of sensory language, making sure that your descriptions evoke vivid images and engage the reader's senses.
• Thesis Refinement. Fine-tune your thesis statement to reflect any adjustments made during the drafting process.

Editing and Proofreading

• Grammar and Punctuation. Review your essay for grammatical errors, punctuation issues, and proper sentence structure.
• Consistency. Check for consistency in tense, point of view, and overall writing style.
• Word Choice. Ensure that your vocabulary is precise and contributes to the richness of your descriptions.
• Final Check. Conduct a final proofread to catch any remaining errors, typos, or formatting issues.
• Peer Review. If possible, seek feedback from peers or instructors to gain additional perspectives on your essay.
• Structure. Ensure your essay has a clear structure with an introduction, body paragraphs, and a conclusion.
• Font and Font Size. Adhere to any specific formatting guidelines provided by your instructor, including font type and size.
• Margins and Spacing. Check and adjust margins and line spacing according to the formatting requirements.
• Title and Headings. If required, include a title and headings, making sure they are appropriately formatted.
• Citations. If using sources, ensure proper descriptive essay format according to the citation style (APA, MLA, etc.).

By following these stages, you can systematically develop and refine your essay, creating a compelling and immersive experience for your readers.

Descriptive Essay Examples

A descriptive essay example is like a practical guide for students, showing them how to write in a way that really grabs people's attention. They help students see how to use colorful language and organize their thoughts. By looking at the examples, students can understand how to make their writing more engaging and bring their ideas to life. They also inspire students to get creative and find their own unique style. Examples are like a roadmap, navigating students who google ‘ do my homework ’ through the writing world and making them more confident and expressive communicators.

Example 1: "A Tranquil Morning at Sunrise Cove"

This descriptive essay paints a vivid picture of the enchanting Sunrise Cove, capturing the serene and captivating atmosphere that unfolds during the early morning hours. From the magical transformation of the landscape bathed in the warm hues of dawn to the melodic symphony of nature's sounds, the cove emerges as a tranquil haven untouched by the hustle and bustle of modern life. Beyond its picturesque beauty, Sunrise Cove provides a space for introspection and reflection, inviting visitors to immerse themselves in the peaceful ambiance and find solace in the quietude of the moment. Ultimately, the essay celebrates the profound beauty and respite offered by this hidden sanctuary as the sun continues its journey across the sky, leaving the cove awash in warmth and tranquility.

Example 2: "The Enchanting Serenity of Moonlit Beaches"

This descriptive essay explores the enchanting beauty of moonlit beaches. It vividly depicts the scene of a beach illuminated by the soft glow of the moon, emphasizing the visual, auditory, and emotional elements that contribute to its allure. The essay is structured into three main paragraphs: the silvered canvas, the symphony of silence, and a tapestry of emotions. Each paragraph delves into a specific aspect of the moonlit beach experience, from the shimmering reflections on the sand and water to the peaceful silence that reigns during the night and, finally, the emotional resonance that the scene evokes. The overall theme highlights the transformative and serene nature of moonlit beaches, portraying them as a timeless sanctuary for introspection and contemplation.

Learning how to write this type of an essay is a powerful tool that empowers students to express themselves vividly, sharpen their observational abilities, and communicate with precision. The ability to create a sensory-rich experience on paper not only enhances academic performance but also cultivates a lifelong skill set essential for effective communication in various aspects of life.

They encourage students to delve into their surroundings, tap into their creativity, and paint a detailed picture with words. The process of carefully selecting and arranging descriptive details not only refines their writing abilities but also hones their critical thinking skills. As students engage in this form of expression, they learn to appreciate the nuances of language, fostering a deeper connection to the written word. Need help with this assignment? Use our descriptive essay writing service right now!

Need To Describe Something But DON'T KNOW HOW?

Let one of our essay writers do it for you, all you have to do is send us your paper requirements and wait for your original paper to be written.

How To Write A Descriptive Essay?

What is a descriptive essay, what is the purpose of a descriptive essay, related articles.

• PRO Courses Guides New Tech Help Pro Expert Videos About wikiHow Pro Upgrade Sign In
• EDIT Edit this Article
• EXPLORE Tech Help Pro About Us Random Article Quizzes Request a New Article Community Dashboard This Or That Game Popular Categories Arts and Entertainment Artwork Books Movies Computers and Electronics Computers Phone Skills Technology Hacks Health Men's Health Mental Health Women's Health Relationships Dating Love Relationship Issues Hobbies and Crafts Crafts Drawing Games Education & Communication Communication Skills Personal Development Studying Personal Care and Style Fashion Hair Care Personal Hygiene Youth Personal Care School Stuff Dating All Categories Arts and Entertainment Finance and Business Home and Garden Relationship Quizzes Cars & Other Vehicles Food and Entertaining Personal Care and Style Sports and Fitness Computers and Electronics Health Pets and Animals Travel Education & Communication Hobbies and Crafts Philosophy and Religion Work World Family Life Holidays and Traditions Relationships Youth
• Browse Articles
• Learn Something New
• Quizzes Hot
• This Or That Game
• Train Your Brain
• Explore More
• Support wikiHow
• About wikiHow
• Log in / Sign up
• Education and Communications
• College University and Postgraduate
• Academic Writing

How to Format an Essay

Last Updated: April 11, 2024 Fact Checked

This article was co-authored by Carrie Adkins, PhD and by wikiHow staff writer, Aly Rusciano . Carrie Adkins is the cofounder of NursingClio, an open access, peer-reviewed, collaborative blog that connects historical scholarship to current issues in gender and medicine. She completed her PhD in American History at the University of Oregon in 2013. While completing her PhD, she earned numerous competitive research grants, teaching fellowships, and writing awards. There are 11 references cited in this article, which can be found at the bottom of the page. This article has been fact-checked, ensuring the accuracy of any cited facts and confirming the authority of its sources. This article has been viewed 86,697 times.

You’re opening your laptop to write an essay, knowing exactly what you want to write, but then it hits you—you don’t know how to format it! Using the correct format when writing an essay can help your paper look polished and professional while earning you full credit. There are 3 common essay formats—MLA, APA, and Chicago Style—and we’ll teach you the basics of properly formatting each in this article. So, before you shut your laptop in frustration, take a deep breath and keep reading because soon you’ll be formatting like a pro.

Setting Up Your Document

• If you can’t find information on the style guide you should be following, talk to your instructor after class to discuss the assignment or send them a quick email with your questions.
• If your instructor lets you pick the format of your essay, opt for the style that matches your course or degree best: MLA is best for English and humanities; APA is typically for education, psychology, and sciences; Chicago Style is common for business, history, and fine arts.

• Most word processors default to 1 inch (2.5 cm) margins.

• Do not change the font size, style, or color throughout your essay.

• Change the spacing on Google Docs by clicking on Format , and then selecting “Line spacing.”
• Click on Layout in Microsoft Word, and then click the arrow at the bottom left of the “paragraph” section.

• Using the page number function will create consecutive numbering.
• When using Chicago Style, don’t include a page number on your title page. The first page after the title page should be numbered starting at 2. [4] X Research source
• In APA format, a running heading may be required in the left-hand header. This is a maximum of 50 characters that’s the full or abbreviated version of your essay’s title. [5] X Research source

• For APA formatting, place the title in bold at the center of the page 3 to 4 lines down from the top. Insert one double-spaced line under the title and type your name. Under your name, in separate centered lines, type out the name of your school, course, instructor, and assignment due date. [6] X Research source
• For Chicago Style, set your cursor ⅓ of the way down the page, then type your title. In the very center of your page, put your name. Move your cursor ⅔ down the page, then write your course number, followed by your instructor’s name and paper due date on separate, double-spaced lines. [7] X Trustworthy Source Purdue Online Writing Lab Trusted resource for writing and citation guidelines Go to source

• Double-space the heading like the rest of your paper.

Writing the Essay Body

• Use standard capitalization rules for your title.
• Do not underline, italicize, or put quotation marks around your title, unless you include other titles of referred texts.

• A good hook might include a quote, statistic, or rhetorical question.
• For example, you might write, “Every day in the United States, accidents caused by distracted drivers kill 9 people and injure more than 1,000 others.”

• "Action must be taken to reduce accidents caused by distracted driving, including enacting laws against texting while driving, educating the public about the risks, and giving strong punishments to offenders."
• "Although passing and enforcing new laws can be challenging, the best way to reduce accidents caused by distracted driving is to enact a law against texting, educate the public about the new law, and levy strong penalties."

• Use transitions between paragraphs so your paper flows well. For example, say, “In addition to,” “Similarly,” or “On the other hand.” [12] X Research source

• A statement of impact might be, "Every day that distracted driving goes unaddressed, another 9 families must plan a funeral."
• A call to action might read, “Fewer distracted driving accidents are possible, but only if every driver keeps their focus on the road.”

Using References

• In MLA format, citations should include the author’s last name and the page number where you found the information. If the author's name appears in the sentence, use just the page number. [14] X Trustworthy Source Purdue Online Writing Lab Trusted resource for writing and citation guidelines Go to source
• For APA format, include the author’s last name and the publication year. If the author’s name appears in the sentence, use just the year. [15] X Trustworthy Source Purdue Online Writing Lab Trusted resource for writing and citation guidelines Go to source
• If you don’t use parenthetical or internal citations, your instructor may accuse you of plagiarizing.

• At the bottom of the page, include the source’s information from your bibliography page next to the footnote number. [16] X Trustworthy Source Purdue Online Writing Lab Trusted resource for writing and citation guidelines Go to source
• Each footnote should be numbered consecutively.

• If you’re using MLA format , this page will be titled “Works Cited.”
• In APA and Chicago Style, title the page “References.”

• If you have more than one work from the same author, list alphabetically following the title name for MLA and by earliest to latest publication year for APA and Chicago Style.
• Double-space the references page like the rest of your paper.
• Use a hanging indent of 0.5 inches (1.3 cm) if your citations are longer than one line. Press Tab to indent any lines after the first. [17] X Research source
• Citations should include (when applicable) the author(s)’s name(s), title of the work, publication date and/or year, and page numbers.
• Sites like Grammarly , EasyBib , and MyBib can help generate citations if you get stuck.

Formatting Resources

Expert Q&A

You might also like.

• ↑ https://www.une.edu.au/__data/assets/pdf_file/0010/392149/WE_Formatting-your-essay.pdf
• ↑ https://content.nroc.org/DevelopmentalEnglish/unit10/Foundations/formatting-a-college-essay-mla-style.html
• ↑ https://camosun.libguides.com/Chicago-17thEd/titlePage
• ↑ https://apastyle.apa.org/style-grammar-guidelines/paper-format/page-header
• ↑ https://apastyle.apa.org/style-grammar-guidelines/paper-format/title-page
• ↑ https://owl.purdue.edu/owl/research_and_citation/chicago_manual_17th_edition/cmos_formatting_and_style_guide/general_format.html
• ↑ https://www.uvu.edu/writingcenter/docs/basicessayformat.pdf
• ↑ https://www.deanza.edu/faculty/cruzmayra/basicessayformat.pdf
• ↑ https://owl.purdue.edu/owl/research_and_citation/mla_style/mla_formatting_and_style_guide/mla_in_text_citations_the_basics.html
• ↑ https://owl.purdue.edu/owl/research_and_citation/apa_style/apa_formatting_and_style_guide/in_text_citations_the_basics.html
• ↑ https://library.menloschool.org/chicago

About This Article

• Send fan mail to authors

Reader Success Stories

Maansi Richard

May 8, 2019

Did this article help you?

Jan 7, 2020

Featured Articles

Trending Articles

Watch Articles

• Terms of Use
• Privacy Policy
• Do Not Sell or Share My Info
• Not Selling Info

Get all the best how-tos!

Sign up for wikiHow's weekly email newsletter

College Essay Examples: 10 Best Examples of College Essays and Why They Worked

Collegeadvisor’s 10 best examples of college essays and why they worked.

The college essay is one of the most important parts of the college admissions process—and it’s also one of the hardest to complete. If you’re struggling to find the right college essay topics, you’re not alone. In this guide, we’ll break down some of the best college essays to help you write a personal statement for college that will stand out . 

You’ve likely written many essays over the course of your high school career. However, your personal statement for college may be the first time you’ve been asked to write about yourself . That’s where our sample college essays can help. 

The best college essays will reflect who you are, what matters to you, and why you’ll enrich any college community you join. That’s a tall order, but looking at examples of college essays can help you as you begin the writing process. But before we dive into our sample college essays, let’s start with some basics. 

What is a college essay?

A college essay is a piece of writing that responds to a given prompt, either on the Common App lication , Coalition Application , or on a school’s individual application. College essays can range anywhere from 50 to 800 words. There are two main types of college essays: personal statements and supplemental essays. In general, you will write one personal statement and submit it to every school you apply to. By contrast, you’ll submit a different set of supplemental essays to each school. 

Why do college essays matter in the admissions process?

Your college essays reflect parts of your identity that aren’t clear from the rest of your application. While two students might have similar grades and extracurriculars, they won’t have the same college essays. That means that your college essays can make you stand out from the crowd. Our sample college essays can help you do just that. 

In this guide, we’ll walk you through sample college essays that address a wide variety of college essay topics. We’ll break down examples of college essays from every category so that you feel prepared to write your own. Each sample college essay we’ve included in our college essay examples shows how you can use strong, intentional writing to approach a variety of college essay topics. By looking at these college essay examples, we hope you learn a lot about how to approach essay-writing. 

Each school approaches college essay prompts differently. Each school may provide both required and optional college essay prompts. Most selective colleges will require you to write some kind of personal statement. Many also have school-specific supplemental college essay prompts and short answer questions. Below, sample college essays that worked show how students like you approached these prompts and impressed top schools. 

For more tips about how to approach college essay topics and the writing process, check out our Essay Guides FAQ .

In this college essay examples guide, we’ll look at some examples of college essays and talk about why they succeeded. Our analysis will explain why these are a few of the best college essays that worked.

This includes a variety of essay types such as:

• Short essay examples
• Common App essay examples
• Examples of personal essays
• Supplemental essay examples (including why this college essay examples and why this major essay examples), and more.

Soon, we’ll dive into our college essays examples and break down some examples of personal essays. But first, let’s talk about what makes a good college essay and how you can make sure your college essays stand out . As you’ll see from our examples of college essays, there is no one right way to approach college essay prompts or one specific formula for writing the best college essays. However, as  you’ll learn from these sample college essays, there are still plenty of useful tips that can make your essays shine. 

Good college essays and the college admissions process

As you start reviewing college essay prompts and looking at examples of college essays, you might find yourself wondering, “What are the common characteristics of good college essays?” 

Each of our college application essay examples, from our Common App essay examples to our short essay examples, offer key insights into an applicant’s character. These sample college essays did a great job of answering their respective college essay prompts. As such, they each stood out to admissions teams as strong college application essay examples.

Later in this guide to college essay examples, we’ll break down the best college essays in detail. But first, let’s look at a few sample college essays to help you get an idea of what to think about as you learn how to write good college essays. These college essay examples provide valuable insight into how you can craft one of the best college essays admissions teams have ever seen.

Below is an excerpt from one of our successful personal essay examples:

One hundred and fifty bagels, all completely frozen. I couldn’t believe it. My school’s Model UN Conference was to start in thirty minutes, and breakfast for the delegates was nowhere near ready. I looked with dismay at my friends’ concerned faces peering out from behind piles of frozen bagels. As Secretary-General, it was my job to ensure that this conference went smoothly. However, it seemed that was not going to be the case. I took a moment to weigh my options before instructing Rachael, our “logistics coordinator,” to heat up the frozen circles of doom in the home-ec room. I knew Rachael enjoyed baking, so I trusted her to find a way into the locked room and thaw the assortment of bagels.

Below is an excerpt from one of our successful why NYU essay examples:

The Bachelor of Science in Business Program excites me, as it entails a well rounded yet intensive study in core business disciplines. However, what draws me to Stern is the emphasis on gaining a global perspective, which is crucial in today’s rapidly changing world economy. Through the International Business Exchange Program, I will be able to gain a first-hand cultural experience that will mold me into a global citizen and business leader. Not only will I be taking courses in the most prestigious business schools across the globe, but I will also have new doors opened for me to network with alumni.

As you can see, examples of college essays can look very different . What matters is that they are detailed, specific, and show the admissions team at any school why the writer would enrich campus life—all while answering the college essay prompts. When we look at more examples of college essays, we’ll discuss why these essays—and other college essay examples—worked so well.

We’ll break down:

• How they addressed their college essay prompts
• What kind of structure they followed
• What their unique strengths are
• Tips and tricks to use while writing your own college essays

As you start looking at examples of college essays, you may wonder how important they are to your application. The answer is: extremely.

Many top colleges and universities use a holistic process when reviewing applications. That means they evaluate your essays alongside your academic history, extracurriculars, and test scores to learn who you are, what has made you the person you are today, and what you might bring to a college campus. 

As you will see from our Harvard essay examples and Stanford essay examples, the best college essays give applicants a chance to teach a school about the writer. Good college essays give schools a more complete idea of the person they will be inviting to join their student body—and they are the only chance a school has to learn who you are in your own words. 

Providing details and telling your story

As you’ll see from our college essay examples, good college essays discuss important details that might not be clear from the rest of your application. Each of our Common App essay examples tells a specific story. Other college essay prompts, like the Stanford roommate essay, for instance, ask applicants to reflect on parts of their identity beyond their grades and test scores. 

Many colleges have also tried to demystify the college application process and provide helpful resources. Some schools, like Johns Hopkins and Hamilton , even provide their own examples of college essays that worked, including Common App essay examples. This can give you a sense of what their admissions team looks for.

You’ll encounter many different college essay topics. Each of these will ask you to write about your experiences in a slightly different way. So, looking at different college essay samples (like a why this college essay example or a why this major essay example) can help you approach different college essay topics. Also, since the Common App essay is a crucial part of your application, you’ll benefit from reading our Common App essay examples. 

Later in this guide, we’ll provide full sample college essays for you. This will include both Common App essay examples and short essay examples. 

Keep reading to learn more about the different types of college essay topics. Then, we’ll talk about the examples of college essays you’ll find later in our college essay examples guide.

Types of college essay prompts you’ll encounter

All college essay prompts will require your best writing and ideas. Understanding the differences between the types of college essay samples can help you learn how to approach your college essay prompts. 

Our examples of college essays fall into two main categories:

• Personal Essay Examples (Common App essay examples/Coalition App essay examples/Personal essay examples)
• Supplemental Essay Examples (short essay examples)

Our different types of college essay examples will show how you might approach different topics and what your final essays may look like. For example, when comparing Common App essay examples and supplemental short essay examples, one significant difference between the two is the word count. When looking at short essay examples, you’ll notice that the details you find in Common App essay examples don’t fit within the short 150 word or 250 word limit. As you’ll see in our short essay examples, short-form supplemental essays require you to make the most out of a limited number of words. 

Exploring a variety of college essay samples will help prepare you to write your own. If you haven’t narrowed down your school selection yet, you might not know what kinds of supplemental essays you will write or what examples of college essays you should read. In this case, start with our personal essay examples—that is, our Common App essay examples.

The Personal Statement

The most common type of essay you’ll encounter is a personal statement for college. For most applications, you’ll choose from a selection of prompts and write a longer essay (500 – 800 words) that speaks to your experiences, identity, and goals. Your personal statement for college tends to be the longest essay in your application. This means it may require more work to edit into a focused and compelling story. For inspiration, take a look at our Common App essay examples. Each of our Common App essay examples tells a story that the admissions team otherwise wouldn’t know. 

You will apply to colleges using the Common Application, the Coalition Application, or a school-specific portal. Each of these application portals will have their own unique prompts and specific word counts. However, all of our examples of personal essays serve a similar purpose and require a similar writing process. 

Beyond your personal statement for college, many schools ask you to write school-specific supplemental essays. Our college application essay examples will cover a range of supplemental essay prompts, including why you are interested in a particular school or a particular major. 

Some schools also offer a section where you can provide additional information that may have affected your grades or overall profile. This might include details about your home life or any special circumstances that created challenges for you.

In this college essay examples guide, we’ll look at Common App essay examples to help you craft your personal statement.

The school-specific college essays that worked, we will review below include:

• Harvard essay examples
• Stanford essay examples
• UPenn supplemental essays
• Dartmouth essay examples
• Why NYU essay examples
• Why UChicago essay examples

This collection of college essays that worked will include short essay examples, including a why this college essay example and a why this major essay example. Before we break down these sample college essays, let’s look at what exactly makes the best college essays the best.

What makes the best college essays?

When looking at college essays that worked, whether personal essay examples or short essay examples, it may be challenging to discern exactly what makes a great sample college essay great.  In our college essay examples guide, our examples of college essays (in addition to being correctly formatted ) have succeeded across a few criteria.

The criteria to keep in mind while you are considering how to write a successful essay are:

• Personality

You can apply these criteria to all of our college application essay examples, including our Common App essay examples, examples of personal essays, and short essay examples. A strong sample college essay, no matter the length, will use these three elements to create a compelling story that will show a school how you would enrich their campus. 

In our examples of college essays, you’ll see that good college essays follow a thoughtfully composed structure. Since college essay prompts often have strict word limits, it is important to follow these examples of college essays and make sure your college essay flows. Strong personal essay examples usually tell a story that leaves the reader with a lasting impression.

Like our example college essays, your college essay should have a clear beginning, middle, and end. As you’ll see in our college essay examples, particularly our examples of personal essays, there isn’t one right way to structure your essay. Your structure could be chronological, funnel down from broad to specific, or start with a particular memory or experience and then expand out towards a greater perspective. No matter how you structure your essay, make sure your narrative remains clear.

Not all essays have to look the same

As you will see from our examples of college essays, your college essay can look any number of ways. The best college essays can take many forms — what’s important is that your college essay shows the admissions team who you are . Even as you look at college application essay examples inspired by a singular prompt, you’ll find the topics they cover to be very different. However, one thing our college essay examples have in common is that they all showcase who the writer is while still answering the essay prompt.

As you read our examples of college essays and start writing your own, try to emphasize your own identity. Think about what is important to you, experiences that made you grow or changed you, times where you were challenged, or an a-ha moment that solidified a piece of who you are. Then, once you’ve found a topic to write about, make sure it connects back to the original prompt. Even if you tell a fantastic story, if it doesn’t answer the question in the prompt, you’ll have missed the goal of the essay. If you’re still having trouble coming up with an essay topic, try this reflection exercise to help you brainstorm.

Standing out

We’ve chosen these college essay samples because they stood out in the admissions process. Besides being well-crafted, what makes a sample college essay stand out is personality. In this college essay examples guide, we’ve included a range of Common App essay examples and short essay examples that embody different voices, tones, and styles.

As you read through our examples of college essays, you may get stuck on trying to pick a topic that is 100% unique or obviously impressive. Instead of worrying about what makes you unique from other applicants, focus on being honest and being true to yourself. Remember, no one is exactly like you. So, follow the blueprint our sample college essays provide, but stay true to who you are. 

For example, if humor is a key part of your personality, let that side of you shine through in your essays! However, if you read a hilarious college essay example but don’t naturally use humor yourself, don’t try to replicate someone else’s voice. The best college essay examples reflect students who knew who they were, what they wanted to say, and how they wanted to say it.

Our sample college essays show why it’s important to take care as you craft your personal statement and supplemental essays. But what exactly made these examples of college essays work, and how can you replicate these sample college essays in your own admissions process? 

How to use these college essay examples

Wondering how to use these essays to write your own college admission essay examples about yourself? 

We’ve given some background on why we’ve included certain college application essay examples. We’ve also discussed what you can learn from the different types of college essay samples. Now, you might ask yourself, “How should I use these college application essay examples to start writing my own?”

Each college essay example addresses a unique prompt within a specific word count. So, our Common App essay examples may be more helpful to reference when writing your personal statement. Our short essay examples, by contrast, may be more helpful as you tackle your supplemental essays.

Think of these college essay examples, including Harvard essay examples and Stanford essay examples, as a resource. We know the college admissions process can be overwhelming . That’s why we are committed to providing you with resources and essay tips to help you navigate your college applications.

These college essays that worked should inspire you. As you read over these college essay samples, use these examples of college essays as a guide, not a blueprint. Your college essay should be original and entirely your own work. However, by looking at these sample college essays, you’ll get an idea of what to highlight as you tell your authentic story .

Coming up: college admission essay examples about yourself

So far, we’ve taken a peek at some examples of college essays. We hope these college essay samples will help you jumpstart your writing process. Now, you know a little bit about what goes into selecting a college essay example and why these college essay samples work. It’s time to take a deep dive into writing college admission essay examples about yourself.

Next, we’ll dig into some examples of college essays and think about how to write college admission essay examples about yourself. First, we’ll look at some Common App essay examples to help you write your personal statement. As you read through our examples of personal essays, we will break down why these Common App essay examples work and how you can craft your own effective personal statement.

Common App Essay Examples–How to approach your personal statement for college

Are you furiously googling “college admission essay examples about yourself”? You’re not alone. Writing good responses to college essay topics is one of the most difficult parts of the application process. With so many college essay prompts and college essay samples out there, it’s hard to know where to start. That’s why we’ve provided the following examples of personal essays based on a variety of college essay topics. 

This section will focus on Common App essay examples—that is, college admission essay examples about yourself. We’ll unpack two examples of college essays that worked and analyze what made them effective. The Common App essay will be a crucial part of your application to nearly every school on your list. Reviewing other college application essay examples is a great way to improve your own writing. 

Each of these examples of college essays comes from our advisor network. Moreover, every sample college essay helped its writer get into a top school. So, they are all good examples of personal essays to use as you start your writing process. 

Getting started with examples of college essays

Writing a personal statement for college isn’t easy. It’s natural to look for college admission essay examples about yourself to help. However, if you want to be competitive at top schools, you need to make sure that your Common App essay—like these Common App essay examples—is the best it can be. Many examples of college essays struggle to leave a lasting impression on readers. Also, many students struggle to choose the right college essay topics. These Common App essay examples will teach you how to do just that. 

Let’s dig into some personal essay examples—or college admission essay examples about yourself. Each of these college essay samples relates to one of the Common App essay prompts. These examples of personal essays each tell stories about the writers that aren’t clear from the rest of their application; that’s why our college essay examples were successful at top schools. 

Our guide will walk you through these examples of college essays and show you how to write one of the best college essays you can. Later on, we break down why these sample college essays were successful and show you how you can replicate that success in your own personal statement for college. 

Common App Essay–Example 1: Elinor

The first of our Common App essay examples comes from a student named Elinor. In the first of our personal essay examples, she highlights her involvement in a club in an innovative and exciting way. Her tone, structure, and style each help her essay stand out from other examples of college essays. 

Below is the full text for the first of our examples of college essays. Later, we’ll discuss what makes this sample college essay one of the best college essay samples to look at.

Elinor’s Common App Essay:

One hundred and fifty bagels, all completely frozen. I couldn’t believe it. My school’s Model UN Conference was to start in thirty minutes, and breakfast for the delegates was nowhere near ready. I looked with dismay at my friends’ concerned faces peering out from behind piles of frozen bagels. As Secretary-General, it was my job to ensure that this conference went smoothly. However, it seemed that was not going to be the case. I took a moment to weigh my options before instructing Rachael, our “logistics coordinator,” to heat up the frozen circles of doom in the home-ec room. I knew Rachael enjoyed baking, so I trusted her to find a way into the locked room and thaw the assortment of bagels.  Cold bagels were not the only thing weighing heavily on my mind that morning. As I walked from classroom to classroom helping set up committees, I couldn’t help but feel nervous. Our conference wasn’t going to be like those of the private schools- there were no engraved pens or stylish water bottles. Instead, people got post-it notes and whatever pens we could steal from the supply closet. Forcing myself to stop worrying, I chose instead to think of why we made that choice. Since most of the food was donated, and all of the supplies had been “borrowed” from the supply closet, we could afford to charge only a nominal fee to everyone attending. Making Model UN accessible was one of my top priorities as Secretary-General; the same desire motivated me to begin including middle school students in the club. I hurried back down to the cafeteria, and was relieved to see that all the bagels looked warm and ready to eat.  The bagels would not be the sole crisis that day. As debates were about to start, one of the Chairs sent me a panic stricken text: “We only have 5 people in our committee! We can’t reenact the creation of the Treaty of Versailles!” I hurried to where his debate was taking place, and sure enough, only five people were there. I quickly considered my options- cancel the committee?  Convince some delegates to switch into this debate through bagel bribery? Or maybe, come up with a completely new topic?  I settled on idea number three. But what topic could a committee of only five people spend a day discussing? I mulled it over until an idea began to form. I explained to the room, “Each one of you will represent one of the five major Democratic and Republican presidential candidates. The chair will guide you as you tweet, make campaign videos, and debate the most important political issues.” I spent a few minutes figuring out how to go about moderating such an unconventional committee, before heading off to check in on the other debates.  As I walked from committee to committee, fixing problems and helping move debates along, I felt a sense of pride. I had spent months working on this conference, along with the other members of my team. At times, I worried I could never pull it off. A part of me had wished our faculty advisor would just organize the whole thing for us. After all, I’m just a high schooler, how could I put together such a big event? But as the day went by, I realized that with the help of my peers, I had done it. All the little crises that cropped up weren’t because I was doing a bad job; they were inevitable. The fact that I could find solutions to such a wide variety of problems was a testament to my leadership skills, and my level-headedness. I didn’t just feel like a leader—I felt like an adult. As I look towards my future in college and later the workforce, I know that I can succeed, even if my obstacles seem as insurmountable as a mountain of frozen bagels.

Reflecting on this sample college essay

The first of our college essay examples certainly deserves its spot among the best college essays. This sample college essay works in large part because of its opening. The first sentence of Elinor’s Common App essay makes the reader want to continue—what happened to the bagels? How will Elinor solve this problem? Examples of college essays with strong introductions draw the reader in. In addition, an inspiring first sentence sets the tone for the rest of the essay. The frozen bagels in this college essay example create tension that draws the reader in. 

Often, good examples of college essays also read like short stories in which the writer is the main character. While Elinor does mention other people in her Common App essay, she remains focused on her own actions and emotional state. In the third paragraph, she describes in detail how she responded to a crisis. She first explains her thought process, then she tells us what action she took to address the crisis. 

As you comb through various college admission essay examples about yourself, you should keep your own identity in mind. Strong examples of personal essays should contain personal details about the writer. College essay topics are designed to get to know you on a personal level. Strong examples of college essays use every chance to showcase the writer’s positive qualities.

Tell YOUR story

The best Common App essay examples tell a story about the author. These college essay examples are no exception. Often, strong sample college essays use a story to show who a student is. Elinor uses the story of her model UN conference to show her leadership , maturity, and problem-solving skills. Like any good story, Elinor’s personal statement for college contains obstacles for her to overcome and challenges to face. By presenting these examples and discussing her responses, Elinor’s Common App essay shows that she is ready for the challenges ahead. 

The best college essays show information rather than just telling it. It’s one thing to tell readers you are a proactive leader in college admission essay examples about yourself; it’s another to show it through your actions. In the second paragraph of her personal statement for college, Elinor states that she wanted to make model UN accessible as Secretary General. She then goes into detail about how she accomplished that goal by organizing food donations and only charging a small fee for attending the conference. In these Common App essay examples, the writers use details and evidence to showcase their best qualities.  

Elinor’s sample college essay also contains a strong conclusion. She illustrates what she has learned about herself from this experience and in doing so, helps the admissions team learn more about her. In this college essay example, Elinor clearly shows the kind of student she would be and how she would enrich campus life. The best college application essay examples show readers why students should be admitted through evidence and storytelling. Our Common App essay examples each accomplish that goal.

Common App Essay–Example 2: Arham

The second of our Common App essay examples uses a different strategy to the first. However, it is still one of the top examples of personal essays. The next author of our college essay examples, Arham, starts with a very specific moment from his fifth grade class. He then explains how that moment has affected his life. 

While some examples of personal essays are about a recent event, other personal essay examples show the author’s development over a longer period of time. To understand why this is among the best college application essay examples, let’s look at the essay itself and how it employs techniques often found in the best college essay examples.

Arham’s Common App Essay:

An hour into President Obama’s inauguration, I stifled a yawn and raised my hand. “Ms. Edgell, who did you vote for?” Instantly, nineteen fifth-graders shattered the silence: “Of course she voted Republican!” “No, she’s a Democrat!” “Obama was born in Kenya!” “Don’t ask people about their politics,” she chided.  “So . . . you’re a Republican!”  “Arham. Outside.” As Ms. Edgell fruitlessly tried to explain that politics didn’t belong in the classroom, I struggled to suppress a smile–I couldn’t help it. For a few moments, fifth grade’s single-variable algebra and spelling tests had been replaced by a more intriguing conversation: one without a definitive answer. Snippets of boisterous debate continued to drift through the closed door, and I was eager to rejoin the conversation–that day, I learned disagreements were fascinating. Eager to understand the “why” of each and every belief, I turned to my living room: a constant cacophony of political commentary, occasionally punctuated by my father’s frustrated jabs at the pause button and exasperated interjections. In my quest to decipher the cryptic nightly news, my parents became my personal dictionary, fielding a nightly barrage of questions. Forget just explaining where babies come from–over the next four years, I asked them to articulate almost every conceivable stance on gun control, abortion, and the death penalty. Through that television screen, I first encountered the full diversity of human opinions, and I was enthralled; I wanted to triumph in every dispute. Dodging my parents’ dinnertime queries of how my day went, I delved into new lines of questioning: the viability of Medicare for All, the feasibility of 100% green energy, the merits of chicken tikka masala mac & cheese fusion. After watching the 2016 Presidential Debate, I spent hours pondering the economic consequences of a more cohesive border–sadly, the living room walls didn’t offer much feedback on my ideas. Soon, I realized that some of my “solutions” were a bit near-sighted; eliminating poverty by printing money wasn’t exactly the modern-day Wealth of Nations, and the solution to global warming was a tad more nuanced than planting trees. I learned that I wouldn’t always be right–instead, the desire to win was slowly replaced by a yearning to understand. With every discussion, I synthesized new information, pinpointed gaps in my knowledge, and reevaluated my views; then, aided by the latest edition of The Economist and a plethora of Google searches, I’d unearth the next set of questions.  Late nights in my living room have defined a lifelong passion: using disagreements as a lens to explore, understand, and influence the world. In Congressman DeSaulnier’s office—where interns were instructed to hang up on adversarial callers—I instead found myself engrossed in half-hour conversations with frustrated constituents. There, I delved beneath the partisan rhetoric to truly understand why people support a wall, desire nationalized healthcare, or champion coal–and, in return, I offered a bit of my own worldview. On elevators, I’ve been known to strike conversation on the whimsical (Should gyms offer a package where you pay for every day you don’t go?); overseas, I invite teams from Germany, Singapore, and Mexico to opine on whether or not Amazon should be considered a monopoly. Whether it’s discussing capitalism or everyday life, the resulting conversations shed light on our culture, upbringing, and aspirations–the willingness to disagree is what builds rapport. In recognition of that, I beckon for dialogue; I constantly invite the world to teach me more. In fifth grade, I learned that we fear disagreement–feigning unity will always be more comfortable. But, through ignoring each other’s most fundamental beliefs, we simultaneously abandon our ability to understand our peers. In my living room, disagreements provided a venue for questioning and navigating a world of conflicting perspectives: though I didn’t know it at the time, they set the stage for a lifetime of questioning. So, be it in the classroom, through a phone call, or on stage, I continue to raise my hand.”

Why is this a college essay that works

As we saw in the first of our college essay examples, one reason this sample college essay is effective is that it engages the reader from the very first sentence. The author uses the technique of in medias res , which is often found in strong personal essay examples. Instead of beginning the essay with exposition, the author begins with a quote that places the reader in the middle of a riveting conversation. This strategy makes the best Common App essay examples interesting to read and helps the best college essays stand out from the rest.

Another feature that characterizes the best college essay examples is varied and interesting word choice. This doesn’t mean you need to use words in your writing that you wouldn’t ordinarily use. In our examples of college essays, the writers don’t just throw around SAT words. Instead, these successful examples of college essays use carefully chosen words to elevate the quality of the writing and heighten emotional tension. The phrase “shattered the silence” from the second paragraph is a perfect example of how a vivid word can instantly improve a sentence. In addition, the phrase “constant cacophony of political commentary” shows how employing poetic devices—in this case, alliteration—can make college essay examples more fun to read. 

So, what makes the second of our college essay examples shine? This personal statement for college works because it presents a compelling story about a young boy slowly learning how to express his opinions and refining his beliefs. Many of the best examples of college essays show a process of growth or transformation. These transformations require struggle, and good college essays embrace that struggle and present it openly to readers. 

The value of authenticity

This brings us to another key feature of our college essay examples: authenticity. Some students have the misconception that the best college essays should only portray your good qualities. However, this is not the case. Instead, the most successful personal essay examples address their authors’ shortcomings and explain how they have worked to overcome them.

Honesty and authenticity permeate these college essay samples. Arham’s example college essay reveals his genuine passion for debate. He provides several examples, both personal and academic, that demonstrate his interest in that topic. Importantly, successful Common App essay examples include details not present in other areas of your application. This gives readers a more personal look into your values. These examples of college essays reveal the quirks and obsessions that round out the author’s personality and set him apart from his peers.

Both of these successful examples of college essays contain strong conclusions that look ahead to the future. These personal essay examples provide insight into how the writers will contribute to a college community. Arham uses the phrase “lifetime of questioning” to show that he will bring his curiosity and thirst for knowledge to whatever college he attends. Good college application essay examples show readers why they should accept you and what you will bring to their campus.

Although these examples of college essays are different from each other, they were both successful for a variety of reasons. Now let’s look at how to replicate these examples of college essays in your own writing!

Personal Essay Examples–How to get started writing your own college essays that work

Do you feel ready to sit down and write your own personal statement for college? Let’s break down some tips to help you use our sample college essays to write your own. Be aware that every writer has their own personal style. So, try to find ways to make these tips work for your own college admission essay examples about yourself! 

So, what can we learn from these college application essay examples? Reflecting on these two Common App essay examples, there are several steps you can take in your own writing process to craft a college essay that works for top schools. 

In addition to reviewing other examples of college essays, we recommend that you do some prewriting exercises to help you write the best college essays you can. First, take a moment to review your candidate profile. Then, decide on what 3-5 adjectives you would use to describe yourself. After you’ve reviewed our college essay examples, click here for a list of strong adjectives you might use. 

Consider the word count

This exercise helps focus your essay on the most important themes. Because college essay topics are so broad, students want to cover as much ground as possible. However, the best Common App essay examples recognize the limits set by the word count. With this in mind, these examples of college essays use specific details to illustrate broad concepts. You may have a lot to share, but the best college essays highlight qualities not found elsewhere in your application. Reflect on our personal essay examples as you write. Instead of rehashing your extracurricular achievements, follow the lead of our Common App essay examples. Tell a story the admissions team hasn’t heard. 

After you have your five adjectives, look over the Common Application’s college essay prompts. Then, choose one that lets you showcase the qualities you selected earlier. When writing college admission essay examples about yourself, it’s better to tell a single story in vivid detail than to write a broad survey of all your accomplishments. The first of our Common App essay examples focused on a single day of Elinor’s high school career. She then uses this anecdote to make a larger claim about her ability to solve problems. The second of the college essay samples starts with the story of a single fifth grade class before broadening out to other topics. As you choose your college essay topics, keep specificity in mind.

Expect to write multiple drafts

The best college essays take multiple drafts. So, make sure you allow yourself enough time to write your personal statement for college. The college application essay examples in this guide weren’t written in a day. Rather, these college essay examples each went through several drafts to become good college essays. So, take a cue from our examples of personal essays. After you write the first draft of your Common App essay, review it after a day or two. This will help you approach it with a fresh perspective. Having others review your writing can also help transform good college essays into the best college essays.  

There is no single formula for writing good college essays. However, you can learn to develop your own voice by reading articles and reviewing sample college essays written by other students. As we’ve stated, examples of personal essays can help you find your own voice and narrative as you start the writing process. This article from U.S. News contains more college essay examples along with short essay examples of supplemental prompts. It also provides advice from admissions counselors about how to write college application essay examples that stand out from other examples of personal essays. Top colleges like Tufts , Johns Hopkins , and Connecticut College often post examples of college essays that worked for their schools. Reading Harvard essay examples along with other college essay samples from top schools gives you a sense of what it takes to get into top schools.

Showing vs. telling

With the above Common App essay examples, we’ve presented two college essays that worked. Both of these college application essay examples show—rather than tell—the reader important details about the applicant’s identity. These college essay examples show what kinds of students these writers would be on campus. Based on these sample college essays, top schools could imagine these students in their communities. That’s why these examples of college essays stand out. 

Beyond the Common App Essay

These Common App essay examples are not the only personal essay examples we will look at in this guide. Next, we’ll discuss supplemental college essay examples—short essay examples that usually range between one hundred and four hundred words. 

These college essay prompts are unique to the schools that assign them. However, looking at many different short essay examples will help you prepare for the variety of college essay prompts you may encounter. Let’s take a look at these examples of college essays!

Short essay examples: What types of college essay topics will you see?

Now that you have some useful Common App essay examples to use as you write your personal statement for college, let’s look at some other examples of college essays. As we mentioned, there are several types of college essays . 

The short essay examples we’ll discuss effectively and efficiently answer the prompt. Keep in mind that you will often work within the constraints of a word limit. Reading examples of college essays will help you learn this writing style. Still, remember that the best college essays will reflect your own voice. Once again, use our examples of college essays as a guide—don’t try to be someone you’re not. 

In this section, we’ll focus on four main types of supplemental college essay samples. These include why this college essay examples, why this major essay examples, other less typical supplemental essay examples, and “additional information” essay examples. As we look at these examples of college essays, we’ll focus on what made these some of the best college essays out there. We’ll talk about what makes each of these college essay examples unique—and how you can use them as you craft your own college essays.

Our college essay examples shouldn’t hold you back. Don’t feel limited to the same or similar college essay topics that you read in our college essay examples. Reading some short essay samples or Common App essay samples may help you brainstorm, but the stories you tell should be uniquely yours. When reading college application essay examples, keep in mind that authenticity will impress colleges the most. 

‘Why this college’ essay

First, let’s break down some why this college essay examples. As you’ll see from our examples of successful essays, your why this college essay should discuss in detail what attracts you to that particular school. 

Many colleges will require you to write an essay about why you want to attend that particular school. Good college essays that answer these prompts will reflect a given school’s mission, opportunities, and personality. When you read successful why NYU essay examples, why Stanford essay examples, or why UPenn supplemental essays, you’ll notice that the writer isn’t afraid to be specific. 

Questions to consider

What classes will you take? Is there a professor whose work inspires you? What clubs will you join? The best examples of college essays are detailed and convincing . When reading short essay examples, notice how many details the writers include. Then, think about how you can include details with the same specificity—but ones that are applicable to your life, plans, and interests. 

Most schools will have their own supplemental essays. This is one area where Common App essay examples and supplemental college essay examples will differ. Our Common App essay samples were submitted to all colleges, while these short essay examples were submitted to individual colleges. 

As our example why this college essays show, it’s important to research the schools on your list before you complete any college essay prompts. Why this college essays that work establish three things—a personal anecdote, details about the college’s offerings, and the connection between a writer’s personal story and the college. Essentially, the best college essays help the reader visualize how a student will succeed at that school. 

A ‘Why Dartmouth’ essay that worked

Why this college essay examples are a useful tool as you prepare your application for any top school. When reading this Dartmouth essay, pay attention to the clearly articulated and cohesive details. The best college essay examples will be easy to read and convey lots of information in a limited number of words. 

I always had a keen interest in numbers, probability, and finance. Early on, I could quickly calculate sales tax, analyze probabilities, and visualize complex mathematical models. After taking AP classes in economics and statistics, I became intrigued with mathematical representations for economic markets and statistical models. This sparked my desire to pursue an actuarial career to utilize my talents in quantitative reasoning. The Major in Mathematical Data Science will provide me the skills to apply abstract mathematical and statistical theories to the concrete world. I will also have the opportunity to stimulate my academic intrigue through an intensive research project. 

Good college essays do more than discuss why the applicant wants to study their major. They also go beyond why that school would be a good fit for their interests. College essays that worked also show why the applicant would make that school a better place.  

As this Dartmouth essay shows , the best college essays illustrate a track record of involvement to support the applicant’s proposed path forward. In this Dartmouth essay, the applicant plans to become an actuary. Given this student’s background, this feels like an attainable and sincere goal.

Something else to note about this Dartmouth essay is that the writer doesn’t use big fancy words or elaborate sentence structure. Good college essays are well-planned, written intentionally, and free from errors. However, they still sound like high schoolers wrote them! Like our examples of college essays, your short essays should feel natural and authentic. 

‘Why UChicago’ essay examples

Why UChicago essay examples provide useful insight into what UChicago —and other top schools —look for when evaluating applicants. These Why UChicago essay examples also have qualities that you can think about when looking at Stanford essay examples, why NYU essay examples, or others!

Ex. 1: ‘Why UChicago’ essay example

When I visited UChicago, a friend invited me to step into her Comparative Literature class: Monstrosity and the Monstrous. Desperate for refuge from the cold (as a Bay Area resident, I hadn’t packed for the Chicago winter), I quickly obliged. I expected to silently observe, but when I mentioned that I’d read Antigone, her professor was thrilled–he immediately invited me into the discussion. For an hour and a half, we weighed the pros and cons of civil disobedience: did Antigone’s actions permanently destabilize Thebes, and in the modern day, when does protesting against a government cross the line? Was Antigone justified in interpreting the will of the gods? And, if so, would Sophocles support pardoning well-intentioned criminals? Beyond the enthralling analysis of the play, I was captivated by the spirit of UChicago: a campus that invites everyone (including a loitering high school student) to contribute and develop their ideas.

In this first section of our UChicago short essay examples, notice that the writer shows a knowledge of campus based on their campus visit and research. Though UChicago does not track demonstrated interest , the best college essay examples include references to visits, school-specific events, and specific details about the school’s offer. This establishes a connection between the reader and the writer. Strong college essay samples will show genuine interest. 

When reading examples of college essays, you should also think about the tone. In the first excerpt of these college application essay examples, the tone is passionate and enthusiastic. The tone of this sample college essay conveys excitement, and the reader can almost see the applicant walking around campus. Let’s read more UChicago essay examples: 

Ex. 2: ‘Why UChicago’ essay example

Now, it’s surreal to imagine taking “The Economics of Crime” from someone as renowned as Professor Levitt (I’ve been a fan since reading Freakonomics) and staying after class to clarify the finer points of the latest Freakonomics podcast (I particularly enjoyed “Speak Softly and Carry Big Data,” on using data analysis to perfect foreign policy decisions). I hope to add to UChicago’s legacy of pushing the boundaries of our economic understanding by participating in undergraduate research, and perhaps put my findings to use through crafting social policy for the Harris School’s Public Policy Practicum. Prior to graduating, I’ll sample tastes of future careers through the Fried Public Policy and Service Program or the Trott Business Program. Simultaneously, as someone who enjoys conversing and respectfully challenging ideas, I look forward to immersing myself in the Core Curriculum and obtaining a strong foundation of knowledge. Above all, I appreciate that UChicago teaches students how to think, encourages dialogue, and prompts students to question norms. 

Showcase your various interests

In this sample college essay excerpt, the author reveals a strong passion for learning. In this and many other why this college essay samples, the writer doesn’t focus solely on one academic area. Instead, the best college essays reveal qualities and traits of someone who is eager to explore a variety of interests. 

Another strength of this sample college essay excerpt is that it sticks to the facts. The best college essays limit overly emotional appeals, avoid cliché phrases, and don’t make vague statements about the future. You’ll see many examples of college essays that acknowledge a degree of uncertainty about what the author will study—and that’s okay! As our examples of college essays show, you don’t need to have everything figured out. 

Note too, that both excerpts of UChicago college application essay examples are part of a much longer essay. The UChicago supplement is closer in length to Common App essay examples. Though the college essay topics are different for UChicago, you can learn from reading Common App essay examples, too!

For more examples of college essays from UChicago, check out this article!

‘Why this college’ essays—Additional tips

There are a few more tips to learn from reading these examples of college essays. First, notice that you have a lot of freedom to choose your college essay topics. All that matters is that you discuss why you want to go to that particular college. Perhaps you are attracted to a niche academic program, or maybe you want to combine two of your interests and engage with an institute on campus. 

Also, choose your college essay topics and words carefully. Effective college essay samples avoid “spending” words complimenting colleges, telling them information they already know, or regurgitating marketing materials. Strong examples of college essays don’t focus on rankings, acceptance rates, or prestige. Writing about the beautiful buildings, the weather, or the student body size will seldom effectively answer college essay prompts. 

Dig deep and make connections

The most effective college essay examples mention major-specific electives or particular clubs. Most importantly, they’ll explain why these programs matter to the writer. You will notice that college application essay examples often describe how college will be an extension of existing passions, interests, and activities. 

In these why this college essay examples, the writers each point to specific reasons why they would like to attend their respective schools. These why this college essays are detailed and specific. Both of these sample essays showcase what their writers would bring to a college campus and how they would benefit from attending their respective schools.

As you start writing, think about our college admission essay examples about yourself. Stay true to your identity, be specific, and tell a story—then, you have a great chance of writing the best college essays you can. 

‘Why this major’ essay examples

Next, let’s discuss some why this major college essay prompts. A why this major essay tells the admissions team what inspires you about your chosen field. By reading our why this major essay examples, you can understand how to discuss your academic interests in an engaging way that tells the admissions team more about your identity and passions. Let’s read some sample college essays. 

Ex.1: UPenn ‘Why this major’ essay

The University of Pennsylvania, with its strong emphasis on pre-professional learning is ideal as a learning environment. That focus is what drives many students with an eye to the future — we hope to apply our learning, impact the real world in ways that inspire change.  I find the Cognitive Science program, specifically its concentration in Language and Mind most appealing. As someone who places great emphasis in words, the idea of analyzing the cognitive aspects behind linguistics, whether philosophically, psychologically, or computationally draws upon various fields that showcase various perspectives on the meanings of language. It’s fascinating that despite the various languages and cultures there can be a biological scientific breakdown explaining the complex processes underlying syntax and semantics. 

Ex. 2: Brown University ‘Why this major’ essay

As someone who places great emphasis in words, the idea of analyzing the cognitive aspects behind linguistics, whether philosophically, psychologically, or computationally fits my ideal of using interdisciplinary methods to study human behavior holistically. I am also concerned with quantitative methods. For example, AP Psychology allowed me to talk about the ethics and methodology. I had read about the Asch conformity tests. But when my teacher set up the experiment with three classmates as subjects and the rest of us as confederates, two subjects did not conform; our ratio of nonconformity was lower than Asch had found. Could it be a trait of the magnet population and experience? Should I remain pre-med, a strong background in neuroscience will support my study of anatomy and help me become a better physician. Directly linking biology and behavior,  Cognitive Neuroscience will contribute to my holistic view of my patients.

Express your passion and curiosity

Each of these why this major essay examples gives the reader a sense of the writer’s intellectual passions. These why this major essay examples are clearly written, specific, and personal. When reading these examples of college essays, notice how detailed they are. For example, “I find the Cognitive Science program, specifically its concentration in Language and Mind most appealing.” Good college essays dig underneath the surface. Winning essays will identify how and why a student connects with their identified major or program.

Note too, that the author of the Brown sample college essay build a clear connection between their past experiences in high school (“For example, AP Psychology allowed me to talk about the ethics and methodology”) and future goals in college (“Should I remain pre-med, a strong background in neuroscience will support my study of anatomy and help me become a better physician. Directly linking biology and behavior, Cognitive Neuroscience will contribute to my holistic view of my patients.”)

Content comes first

As you can see in these examples of college essays, it’s crucial to focus on the content of the essay. So, when you write, complete all college essay prompts with specific details about why you want to attend that college. This will improve your overall application narrative. And, don’t forget to make that narrative cohesive. Strong college application essay examples tie extracurriculars, background , and identity together with future plans. 

Whether you’re writing UPenn supplemental essays or Brown supplemental essays, try to write about interdisciplinary interests if possible. You’re likely interested in more than one area, and many schools offer majors, minors, and certifications with unique combinations. Many short essay examples will go beyond the surface to discuss how the applicant’s seemingly disparate interests mesh. 

These college admission essay examples about yourself might raise some questions. Inevitably, some of you reading college essay samples are asking, “what if I don’t know what major I want to study?” Of course, college essays that worked can come from students who are certain of their future career. However, they can also come from students who change their major multiple times. 

So, don’t panic if you haven’t chosen a major. Instead, look at how you spend your time. What excites you now? College essay prompts give you the flexibility to expand on your reasoning.

Unconventional college essay topics

Some supplemental essay prompts aren’t as straightforward as the why this major or why this college essay examples. For instance, Stanford has some unconventional college essay prompts that help the admissions team learn more about each student. Stanford asks students to write letters to their future roommate. So, let’s look at some Stanford roommate essay examples.

Stanford roommate essay 

Stanford roommate essay examples—like any college essay examples—can be helpful as you craft your application for Stanford or any other top school. Unlike some examples of college essays, the question these Stanford roommate essay examples answer is a bit more personal. College essay prompts like these give you the chance to show off what makes you unique. The best college essays for these types of prompts will show off your unique character.

When tasked with writing an unconventional essay like the Stanford roommate essay, it’s helpful to look at a few examples of college essays. These will help give you a feel for college essays that worked. Let’s read two sample college essays.

Ex.1: Stanford Roommate Essay

In the spirit of inaugurating the life-long relationship I hope we’ll build this year, let me tell you a little about myself. Hi, I’m Allison. I’m the second child of a comically over-optimistic refugee mother (my Vietnamese name translates, literally, to “celestial being”) and a proud Kentuckian with a deep passion for student-driven advocacy. I have two parents, two stepparents, a nineteen-year-old sister (a junior in Product Design, here, at Stanford), a three-year-old half-sister, two cats, one dog, and a complicated life that spans two households. So, I’m used to sharing space and managing shifting schedules. I’ve also always been the “Mom” friend. To me, the little things—a chocolate chip cookie when I know a friend has a rough day ahead, words of encouragement before a big presentation, or staying up late to explain a tough physics problem—mean the most. I’ll be there when you need me—be it studying for tests or navigating personal challenges. I recycle incessantly and am known to snatch cans out of the trash, wash them, and relocate them to neighboring blue bins. I keep a regular sleep schedule, rarely going to bed past midnight or waking up later than 8:30. I’m averse to gyms, opting instead to go for runs in the morning or follow along to a YouTube workout in the afternoon.  I’m passionate, but also even-keeled. I think life is best taken in stride—worrying has never gotten me anywhere, but flexibility has taken me everywhere. I look forward to an awesome year!

Ex.2: Stanford Roommate Essay

Hey Roomie! Yesterday was insane. I still can’t quite get over the energy in that stadium after that final play. I guess Berkeley couldn’t take back the axe to cut down these Trees! I’m writing you this since I have an 8:30 Syntax and Morphology with Dr. Gribanov. I know, it’s early, but that class is honestly worth waking up for. Last Friday, he spent the entire period rambling about why regardless and irregardless are the same thing, but responsible and irresponsible aren’t. Just a fun little thought to start your day. I’m also writing you this as a quick apology. I won’t be back from Mock Trial until late evening, and then I’ll be practicing for Stanford Symphony auditions. So, if you hear cacophonous noises in your sleep, it’s most likely me. Plus, it’s Mahler Symphony No. 1, so you might not sleep much anyway. Kidding. These next few days are jam-packed, but I’m craving some much-needed bonding time! I have a proposal: how does a jam session this Friday at Terman Fountain sound? I’ll bring the guitar and plenty of oldies sheet music, you just gotta bring a snack and the desire to sing! I’ve sold a few people already. Join us? Well, I’m headed to breakfast now. Text me if you want me to grab you anything.

Casual tone and style

These examples of college essays have a more casual tone and style. This works because it fits the prompt for the Stanford roommate essay. Writing a formal styled response in this case would be inappropriate. Instead, in these college application essay examples, both authors discuss their quirks, interests, habits, and personalities . Try to replicate this in your own Stanford roommate essay. Reading a variety of examples of college essays can help you brainstorm your own, but your ideas should still be original!

You and your freshman roommate will come to know each other well, so respond to this prompt with openness and honesty. While they aren’t as prevalent in Common App essay examples or supplemental college essay examples, jokes and humor are more common in these letters. 

Examples of college essays that are a letter to your freshman roommate are less formal. However, they should still be specific and vivid. Include details and stories to show the reader who you are. The strongest college application essay examples for Stanford will illustrate your identity through vivid stories and specifics details. 

Your letter to your Stanford roommate is a great opportunity to show the admissions committee another aspect of who you are. Take advantage of it!

The “Additional Information” essay

Finally, let’s turn to one last set of examples of college essays. One of the college essay prompts you’ll encounter is the “additional information” section of the Common App. This also appears as an optional supplement for some schools. Not all students should write this college essay. However, if you have something important to share about your background or experiences, the “additional information” section can be helpful. 

Let’s look at some college essay examples for this prompt. Keep in mind when reading college essay examples for this prompt that the content will differ from applicant to applicant. So, use this space in whatever way feels natural to you. 

Ex. 1: Harvard University Additional Information essay

I would like the Harvard Admissions Committee to know that my life circumstances are far from typical. I was born at twenty-four weeks gestation, which eighteen years ago was on the cusp of viability. Even if I was born today, under those same circumstances, my prospects for leading a normal life would be grim. Eighteen years ago, those odds were worse, and I was given a less than 5% chance of survival without suffering major cognitive and physical deficits.  The first six months of my life were spent in a large neonatal ICU in Canada. I spent most of that time in an incubator, kept breathing by a ventilator. When I was finally discharged home, it was with a feeding tube and oxygen, and it would be several more months before I was able to survive without the extra tubes connected to me. At the age of two, I was still unable to walk. I engaged in every conventional and non-conventional therapy available to me, including physical and speech therapy, massage therapy, gymnastics, and several nutritional plans, to try to remedy this. Slowly, I began to make progress in what would be a long and arduous journey towards recovery. 

This short essay example shares critical information about the writer. In doing so, this sample college essay excerpt helps the reader learn more about how medical circumstances have shaped the student’s perspective. It is factual—and so are many “additional information” short essay examples you will read. 

The best examples of college essays covering additional information are concrete. They often detail special circumstances, background information, or ways your life has been impacted. If you don’t have important information to write about, then don’t feel like you have to write something. Many students leave this section blank!

Focus on impact

You’ll notice that examples of college essays for the additional information prompt could also include details about your extracurriculars . You might use this area to detail additional extracurriculars and awards that would not fit in that section. These short essay examples typically take the form of a list rather than an essay. These short essay samples should focus on impact; don’t include unimpressive extracurriculars just to put something in the box. Examples of college essays come in all shapes and sizes.

You don’t need to include any additional information on the Common App if you have nothing more to share. However, as you can see from our college essay examples, this section can be useful in some cases. So, use our sample college essays to help you determine whether you should include any additional information in your own applications.

Final Thoughts—Examples of College Essays & College Essays That Worked

In this guide to college essay examples, we’ve walked you through several different kinds of college essays prompts. We’ve also provided details on why these sample college essays impressed admissions officers at top schools. Reading and analyzing college essay examples can be an excellent part of the brainstorming process. 

Colleges admit you based on your potential. So, when reading college essay samples, note the key qualities that the writer reveals. Each of the college essay samples is original and authentic. This should be one of your primary goals when writing your own college essays. 

As you write your college essays, keep these college essay examples in mind. Think about how these short essay examples show impact and character. Then, use your voice to tell your unique story. Good luck!

This guide to college essay examples was written by Caroline Marapese, Notre Dame ‘22,  Alex Baggott-Rowe , Davidson ’16, and Stefanie Tedards. At CollegeAdvisor, we have built our  reputation  by providing comprehensive information that offers real assistance to students. If you want to get help with your college applications from Alex or other  CollegeAdvisor.com  Admissions Experts ,  click here to schedule a free meeting with one of our Admissions Specialists. During your meeting, our team will discuss your profile and help you find targeted ways to increase your admissions odds at top schools. We’ll also answer any questions and discuss how CollegeAdvisor.com can support you in the college application process.

Personalized and effective college advising for high school students.

• Advisor Application
• Popular Colleges
• Privacy Policy and Cookie Notice
• Student Login
• California Privacy Notice
• Terms and Conditions
• Your Privacy Choices

By using the College Advisor site and/or working with College Advisor, you agree to our updated Terms and Conditions and Privacy Policy , including an arbitration clause that covers any disputes relating to our policies and your use of our products and services.

What is a Video Essay? The Art of the Video Analysis Essay

I n the era of the internet and Youtube, the video essay has become an increasingly popular means of expressing ideas and concepts. However, there is a bit of an enigma behind the construction of the video essay largely due to the vagueness of the term.

What defines a video analysis essay? What is a video essay supposed to be about? In this article, we’ll take a look at the foundation of these videos and the various ways writers and editors use them creatively. Let’s dive in.

Watch: Our Best Film Video Essays of the Year

Subscribe for more filmmaking videos like this.

What is a video essay?

First, let’s define video essay.

There is narrative film, documentary film, short films, and then there is the video essay. What is its role within the realm of visual media? Let’s begin with the video essay definition. 

VIDEO ESSAY DEFINITION

A video essay is a video that analyzes a specific topic, theme, person or thesis. Because video essays are a rather new form, they can be difficult to define, but recognizable nonetheless. To put it simply, they are essays in video form that aim to persuade, educate, or critique. 

These essays have become increasingly popular within the era of Youtube and with many creatives writing video essays on topics such as politics, music, film, and pop culture. 

What is a video essay used for?

• To persuade an audience of a thesis
• To educate on a specific subject
• To analyze and/or critique 

What is a video essay based on?

Establish a thesis.

Video analysis essays lack distinguished boundaries since there are countless topics a video essayist can tackle. Most essays, however, begin with a thesis. 

How Christopher Nolan Elevates the Movie Montage  •  Video Analysis Essays

Good essays often have a point to make. This point, or thesis, should be at the heart of every video analysis essay and is what binds the video together. 

Related Posts

• Stanley Kubrick Directing Style Explained →
• A Filmmaker’s Guide to Nolan’s Directing Style →
• How to Write a Voice Over Montage in a Script →

interviews in video essay

Utilize interviews.

A key determinant for the structure of an essay is the source of the ideas. A common source for this are interviews from experts in the field. These interviews can be cut and rearranged to support a thesis. 

Roger Deakins on "Learning to Light"  •  Video Analysis Essays

Utilizing first hand interviews is a great way to utilize ethos into the rhetoric of a video. However, it can be limiting since you are given a limited amount to work with. Voice over scripts, however, can give you the room to say anything. 

How to create the best video essays on Youtube

Write voice over scripts.

Voice over (VO) scripts allow video essayists to write out exactly what they want to say. This is one of the most common ways to structure a video analysis essay since it gives more freedom to the writer. It is also a great technique to use when taking on large topics.

In this video, it would have been difficult to explain every type of camera lens by cutting sound bites from interviews of filmmakers. A voice over script, on the other hand, allowed us to communicate information directly when and where we wanted to.

Ultimate Guide to Camera Lenses  •  Video essay examples

Some of the most famous video essayists like Every Frame a Painting and Nerdwriter1 utilize voice over to capitalize on their strength in writing video analysis essays. However, if you’re more of an editor than a writer, the next type of essay will be more up your alley. 

Video analysis essay without a script

Edit a supercut.

Rather than leaning on interview sound bites or voice over, the supercut video depends more on editing. You might be thinking “What is a video essay without writing?” The beauty of the video essay is that the writing can be done throughout the editing. Supercuts create arguments or themes visually through specific sequences. 

Another one of the great video essay channels, Screen Junkies, put together a supercut of the last decade in cinema. The video could be called a portrait of the last decade in cinema.

2010 - 2019: A Decade In Film  •  Best videos on Youtube

This video is rather general as it visually establishes the theme of art during a general time period. Other essays can be much more specific. 

Critical essays

Video essays are a uniquely effective means of creating an argument. This is especially true in critical essays. This type of video critiques the facets of a specific topic. 

In this video, by one of the best video essay channels, Every Frame a Painting, the topic of the film score is analyzed and critiqued — specifically temp film score.

Every Frame a Painting Marvel Symphonic Universe  •  Essay examples

Of course, not all essays critique the work of artists. Persuasion of an opinion is only one way to use the video form. Another popular use is to educate. 

• The Different Types of Camera Lenses →
• Write and Create Professionally Formatted Screenplays →
• How to Create Unforgettable Film Moments with Music →

Video analysis essay

Visual analysis.

One of the biggest advantages that video analysis essays have over traditional, written essays is the use of visuals. The use of visuals has allowed video essayists to display the subject or work that they are analyzing. It has also allowed them to be more specific with what they are analyzing. Writing video essays entails structuring both words and visuals. 

Take this video on There Will Be Blood for example. In a traditional, written essay, the writer would have had to first explain what occurs in the film then make their analysis and repeat.

This can be extremely inefficient and redundant. By analyzing the scene through a video, the points and lessons are much more clear and efficient. 

There Will Be Blood  •   Subscribe on YouTube

Through these video analysis essays, the scene of a film becomes support for a claim rather than the topic of the essay. 

Dissect an artist

Essays that focus on analysis do not always focus on a work of art. Oftentimes, they focus on the artist themself. In this type of essay, a thesis is typically made about an artist’s style or approach. The work of that artist is then used to support this thesis.

Nerdwriter1, one of the best video essays on Youtube, creates this type to analyze filmmakers, actors, photographers or in this case, iconic painters. 

Caravaggio: Master Of Light  •  Best video essays on YouTube

In the world of film, the artist video analysis essay tends to cover auteur filmmakers. Auteur filmmakers tend to have distinct styles and repetitive techniques that many filmmakers learn from and use in their own work. 

Stanley Kubrick is perhaps the most notable example. In this video, we analyze Kubrick’s best films and the techniques he uses that make so many of us drawn to his films. 

Why We're Obsessed with Stanley Kubrick Movies  •  Video essay examples

Critical essays and analytical essays choose to focus on a piece of work or an artist. Essays that aim to educate, however, draw on various sources to teach technique and the purpose behind those techniques. 

What is a video essay written about?

Historical analysis.

Another popular type of essay is historical analysis. Video analysis essays are a great medium to analyze the history of a specific topic. They are an opportunity for essayists to share their research as well as their opinion on history. 

Our video on aspect ratio , for example, analyzes how aspect ratios began in cinema and how they continue to evolve. We also make and support the claim that the 2:1 aspect ratio is becoming increasingly popular among filmmakers. 

Why More Directors are Switching to 18:9  •  Video analysis essay

Analyzing the work of great artists inherently yields a lesson to be learned. Some essays teach more directly.

• Types of Camera Movements in Film Explained →
• What is Aspect Ratio? A Formula for Framing Success →
• Visualize your scenes with intuitive online shotlist software →

Writing video essays about technique

Teach technique.

Educational essays designed to teach are typically more direct. They tend to be more valuable for those looking to create art rather than solely analyze it.

In this video, we explain every type of camera movement and the storytelling value of each. Educational essays must be based on research, evidence, and facts rather than opinion.

Ultimate Guide to Camera Movement  •  Best video essays on YouTube

As you can see, there are many reasons why the video essay has become an increasingly popular means of communicating information. Its ability to use both sound and picture makes it efficient and effective. It also draws on the language of filmmaking to express ideas through editing. But it also gives writers the creative freedom they love. 

Writing video essays is a new art form that many channels have set high standards for. What is a video essay supposed to be about? That’s up to you. 

Organize Post Production Workflow

The quality of an essay largely depends on the quality of the edit. If editing is not your strong suit, check out our next article. We dive into tips and techniques that will help you organize your Post-Production workflow to edit like a pro. 

Up Next: Post Production →

Showcase your vision with elegant shot lists and storyboards..

Create robust and customizable shot lists. Upload images to make storyboards and slideshows.

Learn More ➜

• Pricing & Plans
• Product Updates
• Featured On
• StudioBinder Partners
• The Ultimate Guide to Call Sheets (with FREE Call Sheet Template)
• How to Break Down a Script (with FREE Script Breakdown Sheet)
• The Only Shot List Template You Need — with Free Download
• Managing Your Film Budget Cashflow & PO Log (Free Template)
• A Better Film Crew List Template Booking Sheet
• Best Storyboard Softwares (with free Storyboard Templates)
• Movie Magic Scheduling
• Gorilla Software
• Storyboard That

A visual medium requires visual methods. Master the art of visual storytelling with our FREE video series on directing and filmmaking techniques.

We’re in a golden age of TV writing and development. More and more people are flocking to the small screen to find daily entertainment. So how can you break put from the pack and get your idea onto the small screen? We’re here to help.

• Making It: From Pre-Production to Screen
• TV Script Format 101 — Examples of How to Format a TV Script
• Best Free Musical Movie Scripts Online (with PDF Downloads)
• What is Tragedy — Definition, Examples & Types Explained
• What are the 12 Principles of Animation — Ultimate Guide
• What is Pacing in Writing — And Why It’s So Important
• 100 Facebook
• 0 Pinterest