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120 Descriptive Essay Topics to Spark Your Creativity

Writing a descriptive essay is a creative task. It requires using sensory language and expressive means, such as similes, metaphors, personifications, etc., for creating a vivid description of an object, place, person, or experience. The best descriptive essays are usually based on the writer's personal lived reality. However, some good descriptive essay topics require research and imagination to explore. Your instructors might give you one of such assignments to see how well you have absorbed class materials and how confident you are with the knowledge.

Finding a suitable topic to explore is no mean feat. With this blog, we hope to help you with the task. Below, you will find 120 topics grouped by a common theme and academic level they are suitable for. Some of the ideas for descriptive essays are linked to full samples in our free database. Read them to understand descriptive writing better and maybe borrow a trick or two to make your own essay even more compelling.

How to Choose a Descriptive Essay Topic

Before we proceed to our descriptive essay topics list, let's first prime you on brainstorming the ideas and finding suitable topics independently.

The first thing you need to ask yourself is, "What are my limits?" Are you free to use your imagination, or are you restricted to the facts you have witnessed? For example, for your history class, they might ask you to write a descriptive essay of an archeological site you've been digging. That would be a description based on your experience. However, they could also ask you to reconstruct the site and describe what it could look like centuries ago. That would be an assignment based on research but also requiring your imagination and creativity.

With that in mind, you need to inspect what resources you have at your disposal. If you have to base your essay on research, look at what literature you have readily available. If sources abound, you can narrow your topic down for a more efficient search. If, however, the information is scarce, scale up a bit to find more data.

If you have to write a description based on your experience, the best strategy for a good descriptive essay topic would be to go for something that made a strong impression on you. This way, it would be easier to create a powerful description from memory. Also, make sure you touch on points relevant to your class or this particular assignment. For example, you need to write about the importance of emotional intelligence in your practice as a nurse. For this, you must select a case that is both memorable to you and relevant to the topic.

Descriptive Essay Topics for Middle School

First, let us zero in on the academic level. Here are some fun descriptive paper ideas suitable for middle-school students. Some of the suggestions are easy; others are more challenging. However, they all provide an opportunity to give a colorful description and tell a story through images.

• Describe your favorite animal
• Describe a fantastical journey through a human body affected by fast food
• My last weekend and how I spent it
• Describe the dawn or the sunset
• Describe your pet (or your friend's pet if you don't keep pets)
• Describe your favorite item of clothing
• Describe your last weekend
• Describe the best journey you ever had
• Describe your best friend
• Describe your classroom
• Describe your street
• Describe your house

Descriptive Essay Topics for High School Students

If you have been given a descriptive writing assignment but no prompt hinting what to write a descriptive essay on, try these suggestions. Feel free to change them. Treat them as brainstorm starters.

• A childhood memory that stuck with you
• A time you lost someone dear to you and how you persevered
• What are your personal reactions to The Princess Bride movie ? Be descriptive.
• Retell Frankenstein from the POV of the Creature
• Describe your family home
• Describe the last party you've been to
• Describe a book character (how you picture them based on the information from the book)
• Describe waking up early
• Describe your favorite smell
• Describe a chance encounter that left a lasting impression
• Describe the most fun activity you have ever participated in
• Describe a thing that annoys you the most. What makes it so noxious?

Descriptive Essay Topics for College Students

As a college student, you must be looking for more original topics to write a descriptive essay on since you've most likely already explored the easier ones from above. Look in this section or further – in the thematic groups. Read the papers attached as examples if the topic interests you but seems too challenging. Also, don't forget that you can get personalized essay writing help for any type of assignment – creative descriptions included. 

• Describe your favorite place on campus
• Describe your experience with contemplating art
• Describe a hot day
• Describe events from The Great Gatsby from an unconventional POV
• Describe a vivid childhood memory
• Describe a gathering (a club meeting, a political rally, etc.)
• Describe a construction site
• Describe a frightening experience you went through
• Describe building a healthy habit (or breaking a bad one)
• Describe a wedding you have attended
• Describe a trip home during the break
• Describe your new room away from home

Descriptive Essay Ideas About an Object

Describing an object is probably on the easier side of this assignment. However, with these original descriptive writing topics, an essay about an ordinary thing can be just as impressive and sophisticated as a description of unique experiences.

• My notebook
• Describe a tool you use every day and its importance
• The thing that has shaped your childhood
• Describe your most treasured possession
• Describe a piece of jewelry you wish you owned
• Describe a thing that has a story attached to it (a family heirloom, a museum exhibit, a memento, etc.)
• Describe your favorite piece of furniture
• Describe a thing that used to scare you as a child
• Judge a book by its cover: pick up and describe a book you've never read
• Describe a remarkable door
• You are living in the Iron Age. Describe the most valuable thing you own
• Describe an item that belongs to a friend or a family member. What can it tell about its owner?

Topics for a Descriptive Essay About an Experience

Speaking of experiences. If you are tired of well-thumbed issues like triumphs and defeats, choose your next topic for a descriptive essay from the list below. Write a different story that is meaningful and impactful.

• Describe how you tried something for the first time
• Describe a music concert or a festival you've been to
• Describe the feelings of an unfairly incarcerated person
• Describe a difficult situation that taught you something valuable
• Describe living through a natural disaster
• Describe the feeling of sorrow
• Describe your experience watching a classic movie
• Describe how you combat stress
• Describe the sadness of leaving
• Describe recovering from an illness
• Do you remember how you learned reading? Tell about the experience
• Describe your visit to a beauty salon or a barbershop

Examples of Descriptive Essay Topics About a Place

Descriptive paper topics suggested below give you only a general direction for your thoughts. In contrast, a sample attached to each title describes a concrete and very specific place. That is why we advise you to explore the attached pieces for more inspiration.

• Write about a public place that continues to evoke powerful, emotional memories for you
• Describe a restaurant in your area
• Describe a house
• Describe your hometown
• Describe ocean shore
• Describe a museum or an art gallery you've attended
• Describe a park or a natural spot you like
• Describe your favorite place on earth
• Describe the best place to study
• Imagine a public space designed for teens. Describe it. Where would you place it?
• Do you remember your first trip out of town? Where did you go? Be descriptive.
• Describe a place where you feel most safe

Interesting Descriptive Essay Topics About a Person

Describing a person is not an easy task, especially if you need to remain neutral and objective. These topics for descriptive essays about people will be an excellent exercise for you.

• Describe a person from your class that you find interesting
• Describe a person you have helped recently
• Describe a stranger who showed you kindness
• Describe one of your parents
• The most unforgettable person in your life
• Describe a person you can call your mentor
• Describe your professor
• Describe someone you see often but not acquainted with (a cash-desk clerk, a bus driver, a dog-walker from your street, etc.)
• Describe a celebrity you find the most inspiring
• Describe a fictional character you had a crush on
• Describe an influential political figure of today
• If you could interview any historical personality, who would it be? Describe them

Descriptive Essay Topics About Art, Culture, and Esthetics

The area we have outlined in the subheading is vast, so these topics are there to give your creativity a little nudge. Play with them and transform them to suit your assignment.

• Describe a cultural artifact (a sculpture, a painting, a museum exhibit, etc.)
• Describe a creative work you have produced
• A documentary that fascinated you
• Describe an impact of a poetic work on you
• Describe characters on your favorite TV show
• Describe a dance show
• Describe a thing you would call kitschy. Explain your choice
• Describe a ceremony or a ritual you partook in
• Describe a night in a movie theater from the perspective of a first-time goer
• Describe a consumer good from the point of view of its esthetic value
• Describe a building. What's its purpose? How is it conveyed through architecture?
• Describe a historical costume representative of a particular era

Imaginative Topics for a Unique Descriptive Essay

How about running away with your imagination and creating something that doesn't exist? No one said that your description must be documental.

• If you could rule the world, how would it look like? Describe your perfect vision
• Describe the art to an alien
• Describe how your childhood experiences have formed your personality
• Describe a magical creature you wish existed
• Describe a robot you could befriend
• Describe an ordinary day from the point of view of an inanimate object
• Describe a technological artifact from another planet
• Describe a day in a park without using sight
• Describe a sci-fi landscape
• Describe an immortal being
• Describe flying over your hometown
• Describe turning into an animal

Descriptive Essay Topics About Business and Technology

Serious topics can be approached creatively as well. Descriptive essays give a human dimension to business and tech – which is always good for a better understanding their purposes.

• Internet hoaxes you've come across
• Describe a product to a potential consumer
• Describe your short-term (3 years) career goals
• Describe customer experience in a chain restaurant or reseller's
• Describe an innovative shop window display
• Describe your workday or shift
• Describe a place of work you see yourself in 5 years
• Describe an ergonomic design you admired
• Describe a perfect gadget that doesn't exist yet
• Describe your first computer
• Describe a technology that should replace human labor. Why would it be better this way?
• Describe an item that will be in each household twenty years from now

If one of the topics above caught your fancy, but there is no sample, don't despair. We can write one exclusively for you. Moreover, if you have written a draft but you think it could be more expressive and vivid, send it to us for editing, and we will make it shine!

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Descriptive Essay Writing

Descriptive Essay Topics

Interesting Descriptive Essay Topics - 2024

14 min read

Published on: Jun 2, 2023

Last updated on: Mar 1, 2024

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A descriptive essay paints a vivid picture through words, capturing intricate details, sensory experiences, and emotions. That is why selecting the right topic is crucial to creating a stimulating reader experience when writing this type of essay . 

A descriptive essay topic should evoke touch, smell, sight, sound, and taste to contribute to the essay's success in conveying a vivid image. So, picking the right topic needs to be done correctly and carefully. 

In this blog, we'll explore various interesting topics to spark your creativity and enhance your descriptive writing skills. Read the blog if you are looking for some interesting descriptive essay ideas.

Let's dig in!

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Descriptive Essay Topics: Favorite Things And Activities

• Describing the ritual of Sunday morning pancake breakfasts
• The comfort of a well-worn reading nook
• A walk through the blossoming rose garden
• Exploring the delights of stargazing
• The joy of crafting personalized handwritten letters
• Describing the thrill of a roller coaster ride
• The tranquil routine of sunset yoga by the seashore: a mindful retreat.
• A culinary adventure in the kitchen
• The excitement of exploring antique markets
• Describing the cozy atmosphere of a family movie night

Descriptive Essay Topics: Geography And Traveling

• Navigating the hidden gems of an ancient city
• Describing the mesmerizing colors of a remote tropical sunset.
• Journey through the dynamic landscapes of a national park
• The bustling energy of a local bazaar
• Exploring the mysteries of an underwater cave
• A descriptive study of traditional architecture in a foreign country.
• Describing the rich cultural tapestry of a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
• The awe-inspiring beauty of the Northern Lights
• A descriptive exploration of the diverse flora and fauna in a rainforest.
• The tranquil serenity of a remote desert oasis

Descriptive Essay Topics: Memories And Associations

• Unraveling the nostalgia of childhood hide-and-seek games
• Describing the aroma of Grandma's kitchen
• A walk down memory lane
• The timeless melody of a family heirloom
• Recalling the excitement of a first day at school
• A descriptive exploration of a sentimental family photograph album.
• The echoes of laughter in an old family home
• Describing the texture of a childhood blanket
• A day in the life of a cherished childhood toy
• The significance of a faded ticket stub

Descriptive Essay Topics: Philosophy, Science, And Religion

• Describing the intersection of science and spirituality
• The philosophy of time
• The ethical implications of genetic engineering
• Describing the metaphysical aspects of quantum physics
• The philosophy of consciousness
• Navigating the intersection of religion and environmental ethics
• Describing the aesthetics of mathematics
• The philosophy of mind-body dualism
• Exploring the ethical dimensions of artificial intelligence
• Describing the role of rituals in religious practices

Descriptive Essay Topics: Tv, Literature, Art

• Describing the impact of television on modern culture
• The artistry of surrealistic paintings
• A literary analysis of dystopian fiction
• The evolution of TV series finales
• Describing the symbolism in classic literature
• The influences of pop art on contemporary visual culture
• A descriptive exploration of magical realism in literature
• The cinematic world of film noir
• The impact of digital media on traditional art forms
• Describing the multifaceted characters in a favorite TV drama

Descriptive Essay Topics: History

• A descriptive exploration of ancient civilizations
• The historical significance of a local landmark
• Describing the impact of a historical invention on society
• A journey through the streets of a historical city
• The role of women in a historical revolution
• Describing the cultural exchange along the Silk Road
• The influence of historical wars on art and literature
• A descriptive study of everyday life in a historical period
• The economic evolution of a historical trading port
• Describing the architectural marvels of a historical era

Descriptive Essay Topics: Daily Life

• A descriptive analysis of morning routines
• Describing the culinary delights of a family dinner
• The tranquil routine of evening strolls
• A day in the life of a remote worker
• Describing the bustling energy of a local market
• The sounds and sights of a city commute
• A descriptive exploration of weekend rituals
• The comforts of home
• The dynamics of family game night
• Describing the joys and challenges of parenthood

Descriptive Essay Topics: Professions

• Describing the real-life struggles of a firefighter
• The precision of a surgical theatre
• A day in the life of a wildlife photographer
• Describing the challenges of a humanitarian aid worker
• The creative chaos of a graphic designer's studio
• A descriptive exploration of archaeology
• The rhythm of a musician's practice
• Describing the dynamic world of event planning
• The artistry of culinary professions
• A day in the shoes of a space scientist

Descriptive Essay Topics for Students

Before selecting the topic for a descriptive essay, make sure it tells the reader about the essay. Here, we have compiled a list of topics for students from different academic levels to write a good essay.

Descriptive Essay Topics for University Students

• Exploring the intricate details of an ancient architectural masterpiece.
• Describing the rich biodiversity within a pristine rainforest ecosystem.
• Painting a verbal picture of the subatomic realms in quantum physics.
• Unveiling the diverse cultures thriving in a bustling urban landscape.
• Crafting a vivid portrayal of a serene sunset atop a remote mountain peak.
• Delving into the marvels of the human brain through descriptive language.
• Illuminating the traditional artisan crafts that persist in a globalized world.
• Indulging the senses in a descriptive exploration of global culinary delights.
• Detailing the silent witnesses to history in centuries-old trees of ancient woodlands.
• Capturing the awe-inspiring beauty of a starlit night sky in the cosmos.

Descriptive Essay Topics for College Students

• Analyzing details in modern art installations for a descriptive study.
• Exploring visual and textural aspects of urban graffiti.
• Describing light and shadow in contemporary photography.
• Investigating the unseen microorganism world descriptively.
• Experiencing sensory delights at an open-air market.
• Unraveling the urban soundscape
• Navigating fashion trend evolution
• Describing subtle expressions in dance: Body language and emotion.
• Capturing rustic charm in forgotten countryside villages verbally.
• Inside a musician's mind: describing creative processes.

Descriptive Essay Topics for High School

• Exploring the impact of social media on teenage identity.
• A day in the life of a local ecological reserve.
• The intricacies of high school subcultures.
• The sounds of a high school cafeteria.
• Describing the journey of a historical figure.
• A walk through a local farmer's market.
• The essence of high school sports events.
• The artistry of a high school theater production.
• Describing the charm of a historical landmark in your community.
• A descriptive exploration of a science fair.

Descriptive Essay Topics for Middle School

• Exploring historical marvels: artifacts revealing tales.
• Pet escapades: a day in furry companions' life.
• Neighborhood park enchantment: a magical nature journey.
• Middle school science buzz: the thrill of experiments.
• Vibrant carnival world: an adventure of colors.
• Fire station dynamics: heroes in action unfold.
• Intriguing library ambiance: a study in fascination.
• Cosmic wonders unveiled: a descriptive journey.
• Mural masterpieces: creativity painted on walls.
• Historical event unraveling: past tales brought alive.

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Descriptive Essay Topics for Different Grades

The selection of a good descriptive essay topic is a difficult task for school students. Have a look at the following list of topics.

Descriptive Essay Topics For Grade 4

• A magical day in a candy wonderland
• The curious adventures of friendly robots
• Exploring the whimsical world of talking animals
• My enchanted garden
• A day in the life of a silly superhero
• The mystical kingdom under my bed
• Describing the colorful personalities of classroom pets.
• The incredible journey of my lost toy
• A picnic with alien friends
• The rainbow circus

Descriptive Essay Topics for Grade 6

• A funny memory
• Your favorite item of clothing
• Performing in front of a crowd
• Your lucky charm
• Your favorite movie
• Your worst nightmare
• The perfect day on the beach
• An embarrassing moment
• The perfect meal for you
• The most beautiful place for you

Descriptive Essay Topics for Grade 7

• A day in the life of an imaginary creature
• Exploring volcanic eruptions
• Secret time-traveling machine adventures
• Enchanted forest walk
• Whimsical talking animal world
• Joyful chaos at a school carnival
• My time as a detective
• Journey to the center of the Earth
• Feast with extraterrestrial friends
• Colorful universe in my toy box

Descriptive Essay Topics for Grade 8

• The street from home to school
• The pet you love the most
• The best habit of your favorite person
• Your dream house
• Your favorite childhood memory
• Your favorite hideout while playing hide and seek
• A list of your favorite restaurants
• What makes me laugh
• What is the world’s biggest secret?
• My first school teacher

Descriptive Essay Topics for Grade 9

• The relationship between productivity and musical tones
• Life is beautiful if we stop complaining
• A day spent in school after vacations
• How does the solar system work?
• Things to learn from life
• Effects of domestic violence on children
• My favorite sport
• My love for country people
• My first visit to a mosque
• Changing a car tire

Descriptive Essay Topics for Class 10

• Exploring the cultural mosaic of a vibrant city market
• A day in the life of an urban street artist
• Intricacies of technological evolution
• Descriptive exploration of historical monuments in your city.
• Sensory symphony of a night market
• Unveiling the architecture of sustainable green buildings
• Dynamic energy of a music festival
• Day in the shoes of a social activist
• Artistry of cinematic masterpieces
• Describing the serenity of a coastal landscape

Descriptive Essay Topics For Grade 12

• Philosophy and AI Intersection
• Decoding quantum entanglement
• Postmodern literature analysis
• Bioethical dilemmas in medical tech evolution.
• Socioeconomic impacts of global climate change.
• Intricacies of International Diplomacy
• Identity intersection in societal constructs.
• Cybersecurity impact on global economies
• Ethical quandaries in genetic engineering.
• Architectural innovations in urban sustainability.

Common Descriptive Essay Topics

Here is a compilation of descriptive essay topics that have been categorized into different groups.

Descriptive Essay Topics about an Event

• Describe the electric atmosphere of a music festival.
• Describe a thrilling sporting event: the roar of the crowd.
• Describe behind the scenes at a carnival: colors and chaos.
• Describe the unveiling magic of a fireworks display.
• Describe the enchanting glow of a night market.
• Describe a vibrant parade: colors, costumes, and celebrations.
• Describe exploring the buzz of a busy street fair.
• Describe the serenity of a sunrise yoga event.
• Describe a cultural festival: tastes, sounds, and traditions.
• Describe the dynamic energy of a political rally.

Descriptive Essay Topics about Objects

• Describe the elegance of a vintage pocket watch.
• Describe the intricate details of an antique writing desk.
• Describe the simplicity and charm of a well-worn teddy bear.
• Describe the mesmerizing glow of a stained glass lamp.
• Describe the rugged beauty of a weathered leather journal.
• Describe the delicate craftsmanship of a porcelain teapot.
• Describe the sleek design of a modern smartphone.
• Describe the timeless allure of a classic wristwatch.
• Describe the vibrant colors of a handwoven tapestry.
• Describe the rustic charm of a vintage typewriter.

Descriptive Essay Topics on Places

• Describe the tranquility of a hidden beach cove.
• Describe the bustling energy of a busy city street.
• Describe the serenity found in a mountain retreat.
• Describe the historic charm of an old town square.
• Describe the vibrant atmosphere of a local farmers' market.
• Describe the awe-inspiring beauty of a dense forest.
• Describe the eclectic charm of a neighborhood coffee shop.
• Describe the grandeur of an ancient cathedral.
• Describe the coziness of a quaint mountain cabin.
• Describe the futuristic appeal of a modern art gallery.

Easy Descriptive Essay Topics

If you are seeking easy topics, we have a range of simple descriptive essay options that are perfect if you're new to this genre.

Narrative Descriptive Essay Topics

• My favorite restaurant to check out
• An Adventure in the Andes
• A perfect companion for me
• Describe your favorite celebrity.
• The birth of a child
• Describe something that made you laugh to death.
• An encounter with an online criminal
• What’s your favorite scene from a book?
• Describe all heroics attributed to King Arthur
• The wonders of Australia and New Zealand

Funny Descriptive Essay Topics

• Describe the antics of your mischievous pet.
• Describe a hilarious encounter at a comedy club.
• Describe the chaotic scene of a family game night.
• Describe the amusing sights at a quirky local fair.
• Describe the funny mishaps during a camping trip.
• Describe the comical chaos of a surprise birthday party.
• Describe the eccentric characters at a neighborhood potluck.
• Describe the laughter-filled moments at a comedy movie night.
• Describe the humorous chaos of a kitchen cooking adventure.
• Describe the amusing incidents at a lively karaoke party.

How to Select a Descriptive Writing Topic? 

Crafting a compelling descriptive essay requires a suitable topic. It's crucial to consider the following points:

Factors for Selecting a Descriptive Essay Prompt

• Interest Alignment: Choose a topic aligning with personal experiences or passions.
• Vivid Imagery Potential: Opt for a subject allowing vibrant descriptions and sensory details to create a vivid description.
• Audience Engagement: Consider topics relatable or intriguing to your intended readers.
• Abundance of Details: Pick a subject providing ample material for rich descriptions.
• Emotional Connection: Select prompts evoking strong emotions or personal connections.

Utilizing Descriptive Essay Samples

• Understanding Structure: Review examples to grasp the descriptive essay outline and its components.
• Techniques and Language: Analyze how vivid descriptions are crafted and sensory details are used.
• Inspiration Source: Use examples to spark ideas and creativity for your chosen prompt. You can read and get inspiration from expertly crafted samples in our descriptive essay examples blog!

The Bottom Line!

We hope that these descriptive essay topics have inspired you and given you some ideas for your own essay. Writing a descriptive essay requires vivid descriptions and sensory details, and it's a chance to paint a picture with words. Remember choosing the right topic is essential for writing a good descriptive essay. And if you're struggling to choose one or feeling uncertain about your writing skills, seek professional help. 

Unlock the potential of your writing with our professional essay writing help , specializing in crafting vivid and engaging descriptive essays.

Our descriptive essay writing service is designed to bring your ideas to life, painting a picture with words that capture the reader's imagination. Whether you're struggling with structure, style, or just getting started, we're here to guide you every step of the way. And for those seeking an innovative edge, explore our AI essay generator . This tool is your key to effortless, high-quality writing. 

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Are you going to write a descriptive essay and are looking for appropriate ideas? Look no further! Here are 220+ top-notch descriptive essay topics recommended by essay writers . For sure, you will find one that interests you and sparks your creativity. We have topics about various places: from rural farmlands to bustling cities. We have topics about people: from friends and family to strangers. We have descriptive writing topics about both concrete objects and abstract ideas. Whatever your writing project is, we have the perfect descriptive essay ideas to help you create a masterpiece. So, what are you waiting for? Start exploring our long list of descriptive topic ideas and find your inspiration!

What Are Descriptive Essay Topics?

Descriptive essay topics focus on describing an object, person, place, experience, emotion, or situation. They can also be used to give a recount of something that happened or that someone has seen or heard. When writing this type of essay, you should aim to provide a vivid and detailed description of the subject so that the reader can fully understand, imagine, or visualize it. When it comes to writing a descriptive essay , there are many descriptive essay topics to select from. Depending on topics for descriptive writing you choose, you may be required to rely on your memory, your observation skills, or your historical knowledge to complete the essay. You can also focus on an object or event that has significantly impacted your life. Other topics for a descriptive essay can include describing a favorite hobby or activity, a memorable trip, or a special moment.

Characteristics of Good Descriptive Essay Topics

Good topics for a descriptive essay are interesting to write about. The primary objective of descriptive essays is to relate the unique qualities of objects, persons, or events vividly and comprehensively to readers. Good descriptive essay topics can evoke strong emotions and feelings in people. Here are some characteristics of good descriptive essay prompts:

• Creative Consider creativity and originality when selecting your essay topic.
• Clear The topic should be clear and concise.
• Interesting Select a topic that you will not only enjoy writing about, but that will also be compelling to your readers.
• Researchable The topic should be easy to research.

How to Choose a Descriptive Essay Topic?

Choosing a good descriptive essay topic can be difficult. The writing style used for descriptive essays is very expressive. Thus, it may be rather challenging to complete your paper if you do not select topics for descriptive essays that suit your preference, knowledge, or experience. Here are a few steps to help you select an interesting title that will make your essay stand out. Follow the tips in provided order.

• Think of a title that interests you. Consider a subject that you are passionate about. You should never select a topic blindly.
• Brainstorm ideas. When thinking about your topic, don’t hesitate to write down words or phrases that come to mind.
• Research potential topics. You can look for the right content online or visit a library and skim specialized books.
• Narrow down your topic for descriptive essays. As a result, choose the best idea that you feel will make an interesting and engaging essay.

Top List of Descriptive Essay Topics

This section provides you with some of the top descriptive writing topics. Writers enjoy working on depictive papers because they give them unrestricted freedom of selecting their means of expression. Besides, these top topics can come from totally different categories. Below is a descriptive essay topics list to help you with your brainstorming:

• The Pearl Harbor attack.
• My scariest dream.
• The political journey of Barack Obama.
• Remembering my graduation ceremony.
• My first childhood memory.
• The most difficult decision you have ever made.
• Life with a pet monkey.
• Your childhood hero.
• A perfect journey.
• The best book I have read recently.
• My all-time favorite movie.
• Great migration of wildebeests across the Mara River .
• My Coachella music festival experience.
• Effect of cyberbullying on today’s society.
• The Mona Lisa: components of the legendary piece of art.

Best Descriptive Essay Topics

The art of describing an event, a place, or a character through vivid writing allows you to take readers to another world. Choosing the right topic is the key to success and it makes a lot of difference in preparing an essay or a speech. Discover the best topics for a descriptive essay listed below to help unleash your creative writing skills.

• The most beautiful place you have ever visited.
• The appalling state of Guantanamo Bay.
• Ancient pyramids and settlements in the Bolivian Amazon.
• An embarrassing moment in your life.
• Walking the Great Wall of China: the ultimate experience.
• My strange “addiction” to jogging.
• Canadian night festivals.
• Voyages of Christopher Columbus.
• The best gift ever received from my parents.
• Weekend living at the cabin.
• The ultimate daring thing you will always remember.
• How I discovered my personal hobby.
• My most challenging moment in school.
• Women’s suffrage movement.
• My biggest superstition and its impact on my lifestyle.

The best topic for a descriptive essay can often come from your experience. Thus, it should be easy to write about, since you already have necessary information and do not need to do any serious research. Using the above list, if you fail to find a topic that connects with previous incidents in your life, just choose a similar subject matter but such that is somehow related your to your own experience or is easy to explore.

Interesting Descriptive Essay Topics

There are descriptive ideas that are relatively more interesting compared to others. Essays about such ideas can help readers better understand an interesting experience or event, imagine and see a vivid picture, or observe and analyze a person from a more intriguing perspective. Here are 15 interesting ideas for a descriptive essay to consider:

• The feeling of being in love.
• A holiday on a secluded island.
• Traits of people you really admire.
• A woman’s life in the Middle East.
• Your biggest life-changing moment.
• My first sleepover.
• Best FIFA World Cup final ever.
• Recounting the joyous moment of your day.
• My biggest fear or terror.
• Earth’s appearance from out of space.
• My imaginary best friend from childhood.
• The TV series you enjoyed the most.
• Apollo 11: the 1969 NASA moon landing.
• Surviving the cold Arctic conditions.
• My backpack adventure in Australian rainforest.

Good Topics for Descriptive Essays

If you are wondering what are some good topics for a descriptive essay, you’ll probably find a suitable answer in this segment. The section outlines topic examples you can use for your essay. A good descriptive essay topic should capture your reader’s attention. You can write about multiple ideas, including a person you admire, a special place or object, a favorite childhood memory, or a beautiful landscape. Good descriptive essay titles should be creative, engaging, and thought-provoking. Below are some examples:

• My first time on a cruise ship.
• This year’s Thanksgiving dinner with my family.
• Your first experience with a foreign culture.
• Your most treasured childhood toy.
• How New York looks from Empire State’s 86th floor observatory.
• My sweet 16 birthday party.
• Picturing a clear night sky in the countryside.
• The first time seeing the northern lights in Iceland.
• My best friend’s wedding reception.
• One day in the army.
• A walk through the Central Park.
• Challenges of living with food allergy.
• The prom night experience.
• Main features of Twitter.
• Most beautiful beaches around the world.

Easy Descriptive Essay Topics

Easy ideas for descriptive essays require you to use just your five senses, your imagination, or memory to create a vivid image of the subject in the reader's mind. It also should take you a relatively shorter period to work on such uncomplicated descriptive ideas. You can choose descriptive paper topics from some of the examples provided below:

• Special days spent with your grandparents.
• Best places to explore in my hometown.
• A perfect summer day.
• The house of my dream.
• The most beautiful sunset you’ve ever seen.
• Your ideal picnic spots.
• Your favorite moment in “ Avengers: Endgame ”.
• Describing my family members.
• Walking tour through Times Square in New York City.
• How does freshly-baked bread smell?
• My sense of humor.
• Perfect gifts for your partner.
• My first public speech: a recount of how I felt inside.
• World’s greatest conspiracy theory.
• My favorite school teacher.

Funny Descriptive Essay Topics

Allowing the imagination to run wild can lead to interesting ideas, particularly when looking for funny descriptive essay topics. Here we have compiled fifteen funny descriptive essay topic ideas for you to write about. The topics will help you produce a unique and humorous essay. From describing some weird costume to documenting habits of a quirky pet, these topics for descriptive writing are sure to inspire your creativity and provide you with a fun writing experience.

• An outlandish Halloween outfit to fit my body.
• People’s attempts to break odd world records.
• Charlie Chaplin: the funniest silent play character.
• How I fell for an April Fool’s Day prank.
• Most hilarious Super Bowl commercials ever.
• Funny moments during Donald Trump’s presidency.
• Funny experience in an eating competition.
• Diving into the mysterious world of wild street cats.
• The “No Sweets for Adults” law in Chesapeake City, Virginia.
• Funny life of Peter Griffin in the “Family Guy” TV show.
• Amusing ghost stories as presented in Hollywood movies.
• Funniest punishment ever experienced for losing a bet.
• An encounter with a celebrity lookalike.
• My queer self-made alternatives to online entertainments.
• Explaining the behavior of an eccentric pet.

If you are searching for other paper ideas such as division and classification essay topics or informative essay topics , you will find them on our platform.

Descriptive Essay Ideas for Students

Students often struggle with finding the right ideas for their descriptive essays. While some topics may seem easier than others, there are plenty of creative and unique directions that can be explored. This section compiles descriptive writing ideas for various learning levels. From descriptive research topics in education to discussing the effects of climate change on nature, these ideas enable students to grow their knowledge and develop their researching skills.

Descriptive Writing Topics for Middle School

Descriptive writing topics for middle school can range from describing a favorite vacation spot to giving a detailed characterization of a person or place. Working on descriptive essays can help students to hone their writing skills, enabling them to better observe and detail their surroundings. Below are fifteen descriptive paper ideas for middle school students to explore:

• My dream smartphone.
• My favorite activities in the gymnasium.
• Fishing and camping with my father.
• Most important and cherished tradition in my family.
• Recounting the visit to Jurassic Park.
• Your most enjoyable activities outside school.
• An unforgettable moment of wisdom with my teacher.
• My best outfit.
• My first time in a live sports event.
• Game night experiences with my family.
• A rollercoaster ride with friends.
• Most beautiful success story in my life.
• A summer vacation memory.
• Why my best friend is my security blanket.
• My lucky charm.

Descriptive Essay Topics for High School

Ideas for descriptive writing at high school level are relatively more demanding in terms of the effort needed to develop them comprehensively. You may be required to provide more descriptive details compared to the lower learning levels or even conduct additional research. In certain instances, suitable topics may only be derived from the high school curriculum. Here are some of the examples of descriptive essay topics for high school students:

• Importance of summer school.
• How I trained my dog.
• How the solar system works.
• Kobe Bryant: the mamba mentality.
• A unique family heirloom.
• Effect of domestic violence on students’ performance.
• Qualities of a good roommate.
• Abraham Lincoln: the greatest American president.
• My journey as an artist: the development of skills.
• America’s Independence Day: the Fourth of July celebration party.
• Thomas Edison’s light bulb invention.
• Greatest moment of personal growth.
• The Pleiades star cluster.
• Dream career: my aspiration to be an engineer.
• Assassination of J.F. Kennedy .

Descriptive Essay Topics for College Students

Descriptive essay topics for university students are even more in-depth compared to the two previous academic levels. Learners tend to focus on topics within their area of specialization. College students are expected to think big and be more creative. Students in high learning institution can be additionally asked to provide educated opinion on the subject matter. Learn some of the descriptive essay topics for college students to get your creative juices flowing:

• My online virtual learning experience in college.
• Yuri Gagarin’s journey to space.
• The role of your mentor in shaping your life.
• How did you get your first tattoo?
• Causes of college dropout: my personal experience.
• The Holocaust: its history and consequences.
• Greta Thunberg’s inspirational story.
• Experiencing the pilgrimage to Mecca.
• Preparing for a date: things to do.
• Inside an anthill: a view from a tiny camera inside the colony.
• How do you prepare for exams.
• Muhammad Ali: his life and achievements.
• Components of Martin Luther’s greatest speech.
• Most beautiful locations in Europe.
• Fastest travel route from Alaska to Ushuaia.

Topics for Descriptive Writing by Categories

A descriptive writing topic can come from many different categories. To help you select an essay idea based on your preference, we have compiled multiple topics and arranged them into various groups. We have focused on six primary categories in this section: objects, family and people, events, traveling, experience, and hobbies. You are free to either pick descriptive writing ideas from the lists provided, or use them as foundation for developing your own ones.

Descriptive Essay Topics About an Object

Do you want to write impressive descriptive topics about an object? In this section, you can explore the list of proper descriptive essay ideas revolved around specific entities. When analyzing objects, your sharp observation skills and basic knowledge about these items are important. Here are examples of topic ideas for descriptive essays:

• My most valued object.
• Toys I own as an adult.
• The rarest metal on Earth.
• World’s most powerful supercomputer.
• Components of my living room.
• Things you will find in my wallet.
• World’s oldest tree: its physical appearance and history.
• Items in my bank safety deposit box.
• A detailed description of the most comfortable bed in USA.
• Burj Khalifa : world’s tallest building.
• Historical significance of Eiffel Tower.
• Features of iPhone 13.
• Inside a Tesla Cybertruck.
• The largest flower in the world.
• Japanese katana: appearance, types, materials.

Family and People Descriptive Essay Topics

You can base your depictive essay on matters pertaining to family and people. Relationships with friends and relatives constitute an integral part of every person’s life, so you will definitely have enough matter and stories to address. In this section, we have outlined sample descriptive essays topics that draw their talking points from the subject of family bonds and friendship. You can deliver a narrative involving memories of time spend together, or expressively discuss some outstanding features of your loved ones. Below are some of the descriptive paragraph topics for papers to get you started:

• My favorite family member.
• The best part of my Christmas holiday with my family.
• Effect of divorce on childhood development.
• Pillars of a strong family.
• Financial benefit of a marriage institution.
• Challenges of being a last-born in a family.
• Things I miss the most about my childhood friend.
• The relationship between my step-family and me.
• The day I met my best friend.
• Our secret family recipe.
• The best Valentine’s Day experience with my partner.
• Growing up in a multi-cultural family.
• Biblical definition of marriage.
• Components of our family portrait.
• Impact of extended family on my personal growth.

Look through our definition essay topics to find more ideas on family. 

Descriptive Essay Topics About Events

Over the course of our lives, we witness multiple events ranging from personal parties to ceremonies of national magnitude. Generally, rather than giving personal opinions or using rhetoric approach, you should prioritize providing objective information and key facts when working on topics for descriptive essay writing about events. Below is a list of essay topics for descriptive papers to help you in brainstorming.

• Saint Patrick’s Day celebration in America.
• Assassination of Abraham Lincoln.
• Chronological events leading to start of World War I.
• End of Cold War.
• September 11 terrorist attacks.
• My first job interview: how I performed.
• The birth of my first born and how it affected me.
• Relevance of the Ramadan celebration in the Islam religion.
• Effect of “Tomorrowland Music Festival” on today’s morality.
• 2026 FIFA World Cup: the next tournament in Canada, Mexico, and USA.
• The incident between Will Smith and Chris Rock at the 2022 Grammy Award.
• How I proposed to my partner.
• The best sports event I ever attended.
• The Winner of the 2022 Formula 1 Series.
• How I survived an extreme weather condition: a close call.

Once you have selected your preferred essay topics for descriptive papers, you should strive to expound particulars related to the occurrence in a chronological manner. This ensures that the reader is able to seamlessly follow the directions of your thoughts.

Traveling Descriptive Essay Topics

Writing a descriptive paragraph idea about traveling can be a great way to capture the moments and memories of your journey. These topics for descriptive writing can help you create a vivid and interesting essay about your travels.

• Tourist destinations that left me with a lasting impression.
• Exploring unfamiliar culture of Amazon tribes.
• The most stunning natural landscape you’ve seen.
• Best cheap meal you have ever had while traveling.
• Most memorable people you met on your trip.
• The most thrilling journey to the Maldives.
• Unique souvenirs you brought back from Africa.
• Exploring local customs and traditions of Native American communities.
• The Swiss Alps train: The Glacier Express.
• Magical views of Niagara waterfalls in Canada.
• A journey to the Himalayas : the city of immortal beings.
• Challenges you faced while traveling through a non-English speaking country.
• Exploring the local cuisine of Istanbul.
• The most interesting thing you learned on your recent trip
• How I met my travel companion.

Descriptive Essay Topics About an Experience

Writing topics for a descriptive essay about an experience can be a great way to explore and share recollections of your life. Although not everyone is ready or comfortable to share their past, there are people who enjoy talking about the affairs that touched them to their friends, families, and even strangers. Find 15 topics for descriptive papers about an experience to get you started listed below:

• An experience that changed your outlook on life.
• A summer night that was particularly memorable.
• Witnessing Argentina’s 2022 World Cup victory.
• An experience that made you feel scared and develop a phobia for height.
• Places that fill you with joy and nostalgia.
• A moment of relief.
• My experience learning abroad.
• The biggest public humiliation that I will never forget.
• A dream that stayed with you.
• A time when you felt overwhelmed.
• A special experience with a family member.
• Self-realization in my time of adversity.
• The story of my first heartbreak.
• How I coped with being hospitalized for weeks.
• Recounting my visit to a home for the elderly.

Ideas for a Descriptive Essay About Hobbies

Writing descriptive essay topics about hobbies can be a great way to express yourself and explore your passions. Whether it's a hobby you've been doing for years or something new that you've recently taken up, there are countless topics to pick from when it comes to creating a descriptive essay. Below are ideas for descriptive essays to get you started:

• My inspiration for taking up a new hobby.
• Athletics as hobbies: their conversion to professions.
• How my parents helped me pick my hobby.
• Impact of hobbies on my relationship with family and friends.
• Effect of sedentary hobby on your health.
• Recounting the event that made me fall out of love with my traveling hobby.
• How physical hobbies improved my physiological health.
• My favorite childhood hobby.
• Financial implication of having a hobby.
• My best friend’s unusual hobby.
• Extreme and dangerous hobbies taken up by my friends.
• How sharing hobbies with my neighbor developed our friendship.
• Pressures resulting from doing ballet dancing as a hobby.
• My hobby’s contribution to my career development.
• Biggest lessons learned from my childhood hobbies.

If you need more essay ideas, don’t forget that we have an extensive blog that offers different titles, including narrative essay topics and ideas for expository essays .

Bottom Line on Descriptive Essay Topics

Descriptive writing essay topics can range from narrating a personal experience to describing a place, person, or thing. It is important to include enough details in your essay so the reader can form a vivid picture. When choosing topics to write a descriptive essay on, you should consider the age and other specifics of the target audience and know your primary intentions in delivering information. It is also vital to be creative and use unique language to make the essay stand out. With the right topic and approach, a descriptive essay can be an engaging and enjoyable writing experience. Do not forget to adhere to grammar rules and employ appropriate lexis when working on topics for descriptive essays!

Our team of professionals provides top-notch academic writing service. Order your perfect descriptive essay from us. We will get it done as soon as possible. Our writers are ready to help you find the easiest path to success!

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• How to write a descriptive essay | Example & tips

How to Write a Descriptive Essay | Example & Tips

Published on July 30, 2020 by Jack Caulfield . Revised on August 14, 2023.

A descriptive essay gives a vivid, detailed description of something—generally a place or object, but possibly something more abstract like an emotion. This type of essay , like the narrative essay , is more creative than most academic writing .

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Table of contents

Descriptive essay topics, tips for writing descriptively, descriptive essay example, other interesting articles, frequently asked questions about descriptive essays.

When you are assigned a descriptive essay, you’ll normally be given a specific prompt or choice of prompts. They will often ask you to describe something from your own experience.

• Describe a place you love to spend time in.
• Describe an object that has sentimental value for you.

You might also be asked to describe something outside your own experience, in which case you’ll have to use your imagination.

• Describe the experience of a soldier in the trenches of World War I.
• Describe what it might be like to live on another planet.

Sometimes you’ll be asked to describe something more abstract, like an emotion.

If you’re not given a specific prompt, try to think of something you feel confident describing in detail. Think of objects and places you know well, that provoke specific feelings or sensations, and that you can describe in an interesting way.

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The key to writing an effective descriptive essay is to find ways of bringing your subject to life for the reader. You’re not limited to providing a literal description as you would be in more formal essay types.

Make use of figurative language, sensory details, and strong word choices to create a memorable description.

Use figurative language

Figurative language consists of devices like metaphor and simile that use words in non-literal ways to create a memorable effect. This is essential in a descriptive essay; it’s what gives your writing its creative edge and makes your description unique.

Take the following description of a park.

This tells us something about the place, but it’s a bit too literal and not likely to be memorable.

If we want to make the description more likely to stick in the reader’s mind, we can use some figurative language.

Here we have used a simile to compare the park to a face and the trees to facial hair. This is memorable because it’s not what the reader expects; it makes them look at the park from a different angle.

You don’t have to fill every sentence with figurative language, but using these devices in an original way at various points throughout your essay will keep the reader engaged and convey your unique perspective on your subject.

Use your senses

Another key aspect of descriptive writing is the use of sensory details. This means referring not only to what something looks like, but also to smell, sound, touch, and taste.

Obviously not all senses will apply to every subject, but it’s always a good idea to explore what’s interesting about your subject beyond just what it looks like.

Even when your subject is more abstract, you might find a way to incorporate the senses more metaphorically, as in this descriptive essay about fear.

Choose the right words

Writing descriptively involves choosing your words carefully. The use of effective adjectives is important, but so is your choice of adverbs , verbs , and even nouns.

It’s easy to end up using clichéd phrases—“cold as ice,” “free as a bird”—but try to reflect further and make more precise, original word choices. Clichés provide conventional ways of describing things, but they don’t tell the reader anything about your unique perspective on what you’re describing.

Try looking over your sentences to find places where a different word would convey your impression more precisely or vividly. Using a thesaurus can help you find alternative word choices.

• My cat runs across the garden quickly and jumps onto the fence to watch it from above.
• My cat crosses the garden nimbly and leaps onto the fence to survey it from above.

However, exercise care in your choices; don’t just look for the most impressive-looking synonym you can find for every word. Overuse of a thesaurus can result in ridiculous sentences like this one:

• My feline perambulates the allotment proficiently and capers atop the palisade to regard it from aloft.

An example of a short descriptive essay, written in response to the prompt “Describe a place you love to spend time in,” is shown below.

Hover over different parts of the text to see how a descriptive essay works.

On Sunday afternoons I like to spend my time in the garden behind my house. The garden is narrow but long, a corridor of green extending from the back of the house, and I sit on a lawn chair at the far end to read and relax. I am in my small peaceful paradise: the shade of the tree, the feel of the grass on my feet, the gentle activity of the fish in the pond beside me.

My cat crosses the garden nimbly and leaps onto the fence to survey it from above. From his perch he can watch over his little kingdom and keep an eye on the neighbours. He does this until the barking of next door’s dog scares him from his post and he bolts for the cat flap to govern from the safety of the kitchen.

With that, I am left alone with the fish, whose whole world is the pond by my feet. The fish explore the pond every day as if for the first time, prodding and inspecting every stone. I sometimes feel the same about sitting here in the garden; I know the place better than anyone, but whenever I return I still feel compelled to pay attention to all its details and novelties—a new bird perched in the tree, the growth of the grass, and the movement of the insects it shelters…

Sitting out in the garden, I feel serene. I feel at home. And yet I always feel there is more to discover. The bounds of my garden may be small, but there is a whole world contained within it, and it is one I will never get tired of inhabiting.

If you want to know more about AI tools , college essays , or fallacies make sure to check out some of our other articles with explanations and examples or go directly to our tools!

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The key difference is that a narrative essay is designed to tell a complete story, while a descriptive essay is meant to convey an intense description of a particular place, object, or concept.

Narrative and descriptive essays both allow you to write more personally and creatively than other kinds of essays , and similar writing skills can apply to both.

If you’re not given a specific prompt for your descriptive essay , think about places and objects you know well, that you can think of interesting ways to describe, or that have strong personal significance for you.

The best kind of object for a descriptive essay is one specific enough that you can describe its particular features in detail—don’t choose something too vague or general.

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Caulfield, J. (2023, August 14). How to Write a Descriptive Essay | Example & Tips. Scribbr. Retrieved April 15, 2024, from https://www.scribbr.com/academic-essay/descriptive-essay/

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100 descriptive essay topics for easy writing.

July 18, 2019

What is descriptive writing? Descriptive writing is used as a tool to help develop your ability to paint a picture – in a sense – by using citing details that bring the subject to life. You see this often in fiction writing, but it has its merits in academic writing as well since writers are always trying to capture the reader’s attention. It is, then, a great skill to learn early in your academic life (like in high school or early college) since it can assist you in a number of other writing assignments by having you expand your vocabulary and keep the reader captivated with your descriptions.

What Is a Descriptive Essay?

This kind of writing assignment asks you to describe an object, a place, a person, or something that evokes the use of the five senses. It’s really open to anything the writer chooses and does not require an argument or opinion. It is usually limited to about a few hundred words, but some assignments may be as long as several pages. The trick is to write on a subject that you are comfortable with describing in extended detail since this is what most grading rubrics will be scoring on.

How to Start a Descriptive Essay

So now you’re probably wondering “How to start a descriptive essay?” The best approach is to simply start writing with keenness to the five senses. Write about sight, smell, touch, sound, and taste. A great descriptive paragraph will paint a picture in the reader’s mind. Professional writers can help you get started. Afterward this you can create a basic outline and then revise your content accordingly. You will always want to stick with your chosen subject, but the more vivid your writing is the great your success will be in creating a great written work.

100 Good Descriptive Essay Topics

Our descriptive essay topics list was put together by educators, students, and college admissions officers as a means to expose students to the most interesting ideas worth writing and reading about. They aren’t the only things you can write about but you can certainly get a sense of what piques their mind. Even if you don’t’ have a descriptive essay assignment on the horizon, you can benefit from a little practice, and the descriptive essay topics below are great places to find a little inspiration.

Easy Essay Topics

• Write a descriptive essay about a place you’ve never visited in your life.
• Describe something that you are addicted to (e.g., a food, an activity, a song, etc.).
• Write about a favorite vacation spot from your childhood.
• Describe a favorite “natural” location such as a forest or a desert.
• Write an essay about a favorite photograph from your childhood.
• Describe your favorite book, movie, song, or television show.
• Write about a childhood memory that scares you.
• Describe a room that has a special memory or evokes a feeling.
• Write about a favorite place that you have visited in the past.
• Describe a person you have met that you are afraid of or threatened by.

Essay Topics about Sports

• Describe your favorite sport in a way that would convince others to try.
• Write about your favorite professional sports memory.
• Describe the worst sports injury you have personally suffered.
• Write about your favorite professional athlete and the reasons why.
• Describe your favorite moment from 2019’s Women’s World Cup.
• Write about your all-time inspired sports moment.
• Describe the best professional sporting event you have seen.
• Write about an oddball sport that no one knows about.
• Describe the positive effects of participating in sports.
• Write about motorsports and their place in American sports.

Topics on Politics and Government

• Describe government choices that have changed a country’s history.
• Write about the different types of political terrorism.
• Describe the different consequences and early causes of war.
• Write about a political figure that has influenced you.
• Describe the different types of election processes.
• Write about one of the major political parties in the U.S.
• Describe a progressive ideal which has been accepted widely.
• Write about a political bargaining tool used in negotiations.
• Describe government branches and their different purposes.
• Write about socio-political changes in your city or town.

Topics on Information Technology

• Describe how social media has changed the landscape of communication.
• Write about the most popular trends in marketing and social media.
• Describe how dictatorships limit internet access for political gain.
• Write about how mobile technology is making Americans illiterate.
• Describe how social media helps poorer populations’ access benefits.
• Write on the place information technology has affected globalization.
• Describe how home health care managed is changed by information tech.
• Write about how the nuclear family home as changed because of IT.
• Describe how information technology improves our abilities to invest.
• Write about small business needs when considering information tech.

Topics on the Globalization and Environment

• Describe the cultural and social manifestations of environmental issues.
• Write about the effects of globalization on international politics.
• Write about intelligence sharing and how globalization affects it.
• Describe how brain-drain has been affected by environmentalism.
• Write about how the world’s environmental landscapes are changing.
• Describe the difference between globalization and knowledge exchange.
• Write about how political parties influence environmental global issues.
• Describe the needs populations have to protect environmental areas.
• Write about the main reasons globalization has affected international trade.
• Explain how environmental issues have increased in the last 20 years.

Topics on Local Government and Public Issues

• Write about your community’s efforts to clean up public pollution.
• Explain why it is important to keep your streets clean and safe.
• Write about a problem that affects your community because of nature.
• Describe a local issue that has brought the public in turmoil.
• Write on how public community service helps bring people together.
• Describe small government rules to protect gun owners’ rights.
• Write about the rules and regulations concerning elderly rights.
• Describe how local governments benefit from more recreational spots.
• Write about local rules regarding abortion rights for women.
• Describe Planned Parenthood funding through taxes in your town.

Topics on Space Exploration and More

• Write about the reasons why the U.S. should consider a Mars expedition.
• Describe how a mixed group of astronauts from different nations is best.
• Write about the needs to invest in more space research for human advances.
• Explain how the United States should invest in more spaceship technology.
• Describe your favorite interstellar space mission from the last half-century.
• Write about how non-rocket space launches revolutionize NASA’s program.
• Explain why companies like Space-X should be sharing technology internationally.
• Describe what it means for the world to invest in space exploration in general.
• Write about the benefits of returning for a manned mission to the earth’s moon.
• Explain the different types of spacecraft that are most popular around the world.

Topics on Educational Issues in Public Schools

• Describe the benefits of having shorter school days at the high school level.
• Explain why students are more inspired when they receive less standard homework.
• Write about the subjects that are most important in today’s curriculum.
• Describe what it’s like to have new, more socially conscious subjects in the curriculum.
• Explain the benefits of teaching religion in public schools in today’s society.
• Write about the educational system’s use of cursive writing lessons today.
• Describe the use of homework each day to evaluate elementary students’ progress.
• Explain how technology is used to enhance daily lessons and encourage learning.
• Explain the reasons why schools are considering late start times for students.
• Describe how standardized tests are created and scored by administrators.

Topics on Descriptive Personal Experiences

• Write about a childhood adventure that is something you want to do again.
• Describe a situation at school or in your personal life where you have been stressed.
• Write about something that motivates you to put in more effort than usual.
• Explain a difficult obstacle high school students must learn to overcome.
• Write about the different types of common household pets that are friendly.
• Describe something that makes people fail and ways to overcome the challenge.
• Write about something that elementary students find annoying in their daily lives.
• Explain how people use comfort zones to avoid trying new cultural foods or cuisines.
• Describe a type of food from an international culture you have recently discovered.
• Write about different types of desserts offered at five or four-star restaurants.

Topics about Travelling to Distant or International Places

• Explain what it’s like to attend school abroad in cultural and societal terminology.
• Describe how different countries treat leisurely travelers from the United States.
• Explain what travel agencies do to ensure travelers feel welcome and safe abroad.
• Explain how traveling with friends adds an element of safety when one is abroad.
• Write about a country you would like to visit that isn’t a popular tourist destination.
• Describe a travel-based piece of writing that explains everything about going abroad.
• Write about a historic city with plenty of public places that emphasize local culture.
• Describe the most visually stunning religious sites most people know little about.
• Explain the ways European travel between countries is easier than on other continents.
• Write about traveling with the military or similar opportunities by armed forces.

The above descriptive essay topics for college students are completely free to use. Share them with your classmates and don’t hesitate to brainstorm modifications to them. These are all suggestions and should be customized to your specific needs. If you need more help, you should try to find descriptive essay examples on the web, preferably those created by professional writing sites. You can also find a lot of great resources to help with different types of academic assignments such as expository writing, persuasive writing , narrative writing, and more.

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40 Topics to Help With Descriptive Writing Assignments

A Helpful List for Writing Paragraphs, Essays, and Speeches

• Writing Essays
• Writing Research Papers
• English Grammar
• Ph.D., Rhetoric and English, University of Georgia
• M.A., Modern English and American Literature, University of Leicester
• B.A., English, State University of New York

Descriptive writing calls for close attention to factual and sensory details: show, don't tell . Whether your subject is as small as a strawberry or as large as a fruit farm, you should begin by observing your subject closely. Examine it with all five senses, and write down any details and descriptions that come to mind.

Next, go a little further afield with your list and associate your chosen topic or object with memories, opinions, and impressions. This list may give you some ideas for metaphors and possibly even a direction for your paragraph or essay. Then make a list of verbs that could be associated with your topic or object. This will help you have more variety than just "buzzing be" verbs and keep the writing and imagery descriptive and active.

After your brainstorming phase, go through your list and decide which details and descriptions you like the most and are most significant. Don't cross off the others, though. At this point in the project, you want to be open to any direction your imagination and writing take you.

Good advice from Steven King from his book On Writing: A Memoir of the Craft :

If you want to be a successful writer, you must be able to describe [your subject], and in a way that will cause your reader to prickle with recognition. ... Thin description leaves the reader feeling bewildered and nearsighted. Overdescription buries him or her in details and images . The trick is to find a happy medium.

40 Topic Suggestions

To get you started, here are 40 topic suggestions for a descriptive paragraph, essay, or speech. These suggestions should help you discover a subject that especially interests  you . If you don't start out with a topic that you're willing to spend some time with, your writing will show your lack of enthusiasm. If 40 is not enough, try this list of more than 400 writing topics .

If you need some advice for the drafting phase, see " Composing Descriptive Paragraphs and Essays " and " How to Write a Descriptive Paragraph ."

• a waiting room
• a basketball, baseball glove, or tennis racket
• a smartphone
• a treasured belonging
• a laptop computer
• a favorite restaurant
• your dream house
• your ideal roommate
• your memory of a place that you visited as a child
• an accident scene
• a city bus or subway train
• an unusual room
• a child's secret hiding place
• a bowl of fruit
• an item left too long in your refrigerator
• backstage during a play or concert
• a vase of flowers
• a restroom in a service station
• a street that leads to your home or school
• your favorite food
• the inside of a spaceship
• the scene at a concert or athletic event
• an art exhibit
• an ideal apartment
• your old neighborhood
• a small-town cemetery
• a photograph
• a hospital emergency room
• a particular friend or family member
• a storefront window
• an inspiring view
• a work table
• a character from a book, movie, or television program
• a refrigerator or washing machine
• a Halloween costume

King, Stephen. On Writing: A Memoir of the Craft . Scribner, 2000.

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125 Descriptive Essay Topics

Writing a descriptive essay is an excellent way for students to detail a particular experience related to a person, place, object, situation, emotion, or abstract feeling.

However, while this exercise in creativity showcases a student’s ability to put words into sensory focus, it can be rather challenging to complete because the subject matter is so open-ended.

This is especially true when choosing the topic for a descriptive essay since finding a suitable topic will depend on a student’s ability to find the right words to describe it.

If you are a student that has received a descriptive writing essay assignment from your professor, fear not! This incredible list of 125 descriptive essay topics will ensure that you have a great starting point from which to craft your essay.

Before choosing a topic, check out the secrets to writing a descriptive essay that will help get you the grade you deserve on your writing assignment.

Critical Elements of a Descriptive Essay

Unlike essay styles that are fact-based, it is essential to remember that a descriptive essay is based on abstract observation. Its purpose is to describe a topic, person, place, object, situation, emotion, or abstract feeling.

To do this, descriptive essays require sensory words that create vivid imagery in the reader’s mind to make them feel like they are in the moment being described. Sensory words include, but are not limited to:

• Taste – sweet, salty, bitter, sour, metallic, spicy, and tart.
• Touch – smooth, bumpy, coarse, prickly, wet, sticky, dry
• Sight – colorless, colorful, blurry/blinding/too bright to see clearly
• Season – fall, winter, summer, spring, crisp, humid, wet, freezing,
• Sound – hectic, chaotic, quiet, thunderous, loud, jarring
• Smell – musty, earthy, damp/wet, dusty, smoky, stinky, fragrant
• Appearance – sharp, glossy, faded, gleaming, sleek, shiny/glossy
• Feelings – happy, sad, angry, frustrated, excited, afraid/scared

Other sensory words may describe the color of a person’s hair, the mood or energy in a room, and even the temperature. When choosing a topic for your descriptive essay, be sure to pay close attention to sensory words that could serve as the backbone of your paragraphs.

Additionally, because of the nature of the writing, it is 100% okay to embellish or even exaggerate certain sensory words to make them seem even more engaging and tangible for the reader.

How to Structure a Descriptive Essay

Even though this essay will rely on sensory words to create a vivid image of what is being described, it is essential to remember that a descriptive essay still needs to have an intro, body, and conclusion.

Introduction

The first sentence of an introduction paragraph for a descriptive essay should contextualize the scene. Take the time to describe the place where the event takes place, including setting details like time of day, weather, season, and the current mood of the scene.

Body of the Essay

Once a student has established where they are, it is essential to detail what else is happening in the following paragraphs. This means describing elements of the scene in detailed description using humor, sensory language, and vivid imagery.

Consider incorporating details about what people are doing, the noises they are making, the smells permeating the air, visible colors, and surrounding textures.

A descriptive essay conclusion should serve as a recap in which you describe one final element of the scene or an observation about what was seen, heard, smelled, or touched.

Additionally, this is when you could include a reflection of how the scene made you feel in order to leave your reader with an intangible lasting impression.

What Should Never Go into a Descriptive Essay

To make sure that you are writing a descriptive essay and not another form of writing, students should be careful not to mention or use the following:

• Dialogue. Remember that the descriptive essay is meant to retell one single image, moment, or experience.
• Chain of events. The scene should exist in its own bubble of storytelling, free from erroneous events before or after the scene takes place.
• Characters. While secondary details may go along with the scene, such as people who add to the mood, this is still not an appropriate essay to mention, create, or develop the backstory for a literary character.

With the do’s and don’ts of descriptive essay writing above, students can choose any of these topics to help spark inspiration during their next descriptive essay writing assignment.

Descriptive Essay Topics About People

• My favorite teacher
• My first crush
• My best friend
• The girl I have a massive crush on right now
• My newborn baby sibling
• A member of my family
• My partner in crime
• The cutest baby I have ever seen
• The most annoying person I know
• Someone who has inspired me the most
• My first job
• The student that I want to be like
• A significant mentor in my life
• My closest friend’s child
• The most intelligent person I know

Descriptive Essay Topics About Places

• My hometown
• The most beautiful place in nature that I have ever seen
• A favorite spot on the school campus
• My favorite coffee shop
• My favorite country
• A place I want to visit before I die
• My favorite movie theater
• The best beach in the area
• My favorite retail store
• The worst place on campus
• A place where I have experienced fear
• Where I was happiest
• The place where I am the most relaxed
• A place I can’t seem to get enough of
• My dream house
• My favorite art gallery
• The museum that always seems to disappoint me
• A location I know well
• Where I would choose to live if money were no object

Descriptive Essay Topics About Objects & Things

• My favorite book
• A piece of jewelry that holds a special meaning for me
• The best meal I have ever eaten
• My favorite decoration in my room
• The best painting I have ever seen
• A piece of clothing that makes me feel beautiful
• An item that brings back a fond memory for me
• My favorite sports team’s jersey
• My favorite outfit to wear while hanging out with friends
• A book that changed my life
• My favorite book series
• The next book I want to read
• An item that is very special to me
• My most treasured possession
• A movie that holds a very dear place in my heart
• Something I would never throw away despite its flaws
• A personal memento from someone who has passed away
• A ridiculous thing I own
• An item that makes my life easier
• A piece of technology that has changed my life for the better
• My favorite poem or short read
• The best song I have ever heard
• What I collect obsessively

Descriptive Essay Topics About Animals

• The most intelligent animal I have ever known
• A pet that has been with me through thick and thin
• An animal that fascinates me most
• The most dangerous animal I’ve encountered
• An extinct creature I would love to see resurrected
• A dangerous animal I have a healthy respect for
• The cutest animal in the world
• What creature would be my best friend if it could talk?
• My favorite wildcat
• An experience I had with an animal that genuinely touched me
• The strangest pet I’ve ever owned
• My favorite zoo animal when I was a child
• What I love most about being a pet owner
• My favorite farmyard animal
• The most exotic animal I have ever seen
• One animal that should be extinct
• A farm animal that is my spirit creature

Descriptive Essay Topics About Food

• My favorite meal to cook for myself on a day off
• The best meal I ever ate out at a restaurant
• What makes the perfect sandwich to me
• My go-to comfort food when I’m having a bad day
• My local specialty
• My favorite dish at a restaurant I frequent
• The best meal I have ever had in my life is
• My most embarrassing/funniest food-related story
• What I always order when dining out with friends
• A new flavor combination of food that intrigues me
• A dish I love to cook when I’m in a happy mood
• The best dish at a restaurant I don’t want to admit I frequent
• A food I wish didn’t exist because it makes me fat
• The best meal my mom ever made for me

Descriptive Essay Topics About Nature

• A creature I met in the wild
• A tree outside my house
• Something I would save if a forest were on fire
• A stream that runs near my home
• The most beautiful sunset I have ever seen
• My favorite type of plant or flower
• An outdoor activity I enjoy
• My favorite forest animal
• A flower I want to grow in my garden
• Something about nature that makes me feel small
• The most dangerous/fascinating type of weather phenomenon I have ever seen
• The best view I have ever seen
• Where I go to relax outside
• What natural phenomenon fascinates me the most
• The most beautiful place in nature that I’ve ever visited
• A moment with nature that left a lasting impression on me.
• My favorite park or garden

Descriptive Essay Topics About Memories & Personal Experiences

• The weirdest dream I ever had
• One of my worst nightmares
• My biggest fear in life is
• A memory from my childhood that brings a smile to my face
• The worst thing that has ever happened to me unexpectedly
• The best thing that has ever happened to me unexpectedly
• One of my most treasured memories is
• My first memory of meeting someone who changed my life
• An event that inspired me to start this blog
• A random act of kindness I received unexpectedly
• Something amazing about myself that I never thought possible
• A time I wished I didn’t have to grow up/be an adult
• The best vacation I’ve ever taken
• What makes a perfect day for me
• One of my favorite things to do when it’s raining outside is
• The moment that made me realize I was officially an adult
• The most exciting dream I’ve ever had
• My biggest regret is

With these 125 descriptive essay topics and the handy writing guide above, students can craft a vivid and engaging descriptive essay!

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75 Interesting Descriptive Essay Topics

Working on academic papers is a must, no matter how intensely students hate this task. Descriptive writing could be interesting, but for reaching success here, it is essential to find good descriptive essay topics. A lot of things depend on creativity and imagination, but your personal interest is even more important. We’re going to help you find a topic that will suit your tastes, but first, let’s figure out  what is a descriptive essay ? These assignments are a piece of writing focused on re-creating a specific experience, place, person, or event: a writer’s goal is to present it in a detailed and clear way. So, each student must pick a subject and describe it, building a vivid picture of it in the minds of their audience.

Descriptive writing prompts are important because they help you sharpen your memory, analyze your thoughts and reactions, and train your writing as well as expand your vocabulary.  They are also exciting, but of course, this factor relies on which topic you select. There are some tips and suggestions that could guide you in this process, so if you need assistance, we are here to help you.

Strategies for Choosing Great Descriptive Essay Ideas

Many students underestimate the importance of topics. They are happy to grab the first one they see, and then they face hours or even days of boring research and inefficient drafts, ending up with a mediocre paper a professor cannot evaluate highly. This is a big mistake, so if you’d like to avoid such unfortunate results, keep tips below in mind.

• Go for personal focus. Never choose descriptive essay prompts that you don’t care about. They should be personally interesting for you — this is the only way to make sure that your paper is pleasing to everyone related to it. Writers can do a good job only if they enjoy what they’re doing (unless they are already experienced enough, but it’s a rarity among students). So, look into your memory. Think about something you’d like to describe: it could be a trip somewhere, a favorite place, or even a beloved person.
• Consider the volume. It is vital to base a topic on the word count you’ll have to cover and the amount of details available to you. Let’s look at these examples: you decided to write about an instance where you met your favorite actor. The problem is, you saw him briefly and nothing truly of note happened, so you could come up with several descriptive paragraph topics, but it won’t be enough for a 5-page essay. You’d have to choose another theme in this case. Equally, if you have a large idea that could make for 10 pages while the task requires you to write only 1, this isn’t the best decision. So never forget about word count and adjust volume of your ideas accordingly.
• Adjust topic based on vocabulary. If you study at college, you likely have an average vocabulary fitting the academic sphere. In case you study at university, your word supply is more complex, so you could afford to look at more creative descriptive topics. High school students have less diverse vocabulary, so evaluate your skills objectively. This factor affects the choice you will make, so if you plan to describe a fight you witnessed, you should assess whether you know enough words and expressions for it.
• Look for supporting sources. They are not always necessary, but they’ll definitely be a plus. If you choose a more scientific kind of work, you should support your opinions and impressions with other people’s words. Look for such sources, but be sure they are credible. Focus on articles and books, not on blogs and general sites.

75 Topics for Descriptive Essay on Different Levels

Another option for choosing an inspiring topic entails looking through relevant lists. We composed one specifically for the sake of students who are looking for inspiration yet can’t settle on any exciting ideas. You won’t experience any troubles with using it: either pick an option directly from it or use some of them as a foundation for developing your own.  We concentrated on five major categories, each having 15 descriptive topics in it.

Descriptive Essay Topics About Famous People

There are lots of ideas for descriptive essay in this category. With how many famous people have changed our world, you could pick any of them to craft your essay.

• Donald Trump: Describe His Rise to Power and His Eventual Downfall
• Explain What Diaries Belonging to Marilyn Monroe Revealed About Her Past
• Why Is Mother Theresa Known All Over the World? Describe Her Life and Personality
• Describe the Real Circumstances Surrounding Discoveries That Christopher Columbus Made
• Describe the Productive Life of Walt Disney & His Legacy
• Explain Why Leonardo Da Vinci Is Considered Unique:  Focus on His Discoveries and Inventions
• Explore Rise of Any Popular Soviet Leader to Absolute Power
• Who Is Greta Thunberg? Talk About Her Personality as Expressed By Her Ideas

There are also fictional famous people: they could make for good descriptive essay titles.

• Harry Potter: Describe His Heroic Attributes and How They Relate to His Personality
• Explain the Mystery Posed by the Figure of Merlin: What Do We Know About Him?
• Describe All Heroics Attributed to King Arthur
• Describe Changes in Attitude toward Vampires That Jacob Black Experienced
• Talk About the Love Story between Jack and Rose from Titanic
• Voldemort: What Events in the Life of Tom Riddle Created a Monster
• Describe What Makes Katniss from Hunger Games an Inspiring Power Leader

Descriptive Topics About Celebrities

We are surrounded by celebrities. If you’d like to explore one of them, check this descriptive essay topics list.

• Mads Mikkelsen as the Most Atypical Star in the Global Movie Industry
• Describe Problems that Johnny Depp Has Been Experiencing Recently
• Tragedy and Comedy of Jim Carrey’s Life: Describe This Mix
• Describe the Changing Array of Roles Performed by Emma Watson
• Daniel Radcliffe and His Attempts to Move On From Harry Potter
• Explore and Explain Leonardo DiCaprio’s Struggles to Receive Oscar
• Dive Into Descriptions of Reasons for Charles Chaplin’s Popularity
• How Morgan Freeman Changed Entertainment Industry
• Acting in Violent Movies: Describe What Roles Sylvester Stallone Played
• Elaborate on How George Clooney Started Being Considered an Icon of Attractiveness
• Describe Career of Steven Spielberg Along with His Success and Failures
• Sad Stories: Describe What Choices Kate Winslet Makes in Her Movies
• Being a Pirate: Talk About Adventures Orlando Bloom Had When Playing Will Turner
• Creativity and Elegance of Keira Knightley:  Describe Life Journey of This Actress
• Describe Singing Career of Hugh Jackman and How It Mixed with His Actor Choices

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Descriptive Essay Topic Ideas About Places

People love travelling all over the world, so there is a thousand of descriptive writing topics to select from.

• Talk About the Most Beautiful City You Have Ever Visited
• Quiet Night in a Forest: Describe Beauty Around It
• Seeing Red Sea for the First Time: Focus on Details Surrounding This Experience
• Describe Your Home and Elements That Make It Dear to You
• The Coziest Café with the Most Delicious Food: Share Your Experience
• Garden That Stays in Your Memory: Describe What Plants It Had
• Visiting Museum: Discuss Atmosphere, Interior, and Displayed Objects
• First Visit to 3D Movie: How Did It Go?
• Moving to a New House: Describe First Impressions of How It Looked Liked
• Choose a Church That Impressed You & Share Details About Its Design

How about descriptive writing ideas for fictional places? They could be just as exciting.

• Describe Hogwarts As It Is Portrayed in Harry Potter Books
• Narnia, Its Delights and Horrors: Focus On Attributes That Make It Memorable
• Describe Gritty Setting of Games of Thrones (TV Show or Book)
• How Does Universe of Hunger Games Function? Describe Its Major Features
• House of Cullens From Twilight: Talk About Its Inward and Outward Appearance

Descriptive Essay Prompts About Objects

Wherever you look, you’ll see objects of different kinds. Pick a good descriptive essay topic from the ones that trigger your interest.

• How Cell Phone of Your Dreams Would Look Like
• The Most Comfortable Bed in This World: Give a Detailed Description
• Describe Each Component of Your Make-Up: What Are They, What Color They Have, & What Are They For?
• Describe the Scent of Your Favorite Perfume: Focus on Each Undertone to Create a Clear Image
• Your Favorite Food: Describe a Meal Complete with Three Different Dishes
• Talk About Diary You Had: Its Cover, Pages, Purpose, & Importance
• Describe How the Most Exquisite Box of Chocolates You Have Seen Looks
• Book Cover That Made You Immediately Want to Buy Book Itself
• Backpack You Carry Every Day: What Makes It Comfortable & Special?
• Describe How You Choose Your Handbag From Start to Finish
• Kitchen in Your House: Describe Its Design, Key Objects, & Their Purposes
• The Most Exquisite  Bouquet of Flowers That Stands Out in Memory
• Blanket You Use During Winter: What Is Its Appearance, Thickness, and Warmth Level?
• Movie You Watched for More Than Ten Times
• A Pair of Shoes That Begs to Be Bought: How Would You Describe It?

Memories Topics

We all have memories that make us into who we are. These examples of descriptive essay topics could help you recall meaningful events that deserve to be written about.

• Describe the Best Birthday Celebration You Have Ever Had
• The  Day When Someone You Love Broke Your Heart
• Seeing My Future Pet for the First Time & Falling in Love With It
• Day of Heartbreaking Loss and My Reaction to It
• Finale of a Movie I Watched That Made Me Feel Over the Moon From Joy
• Terrible Disappointment After the Show I Loved Ended Badly: Details & Reaction
• How My Best Friend and I Shared Our First Serious Secret We Never Disclosed to Others
• Your First Joined Trip with Family: Fun and Excitement of It
• Guilt I Felt After Betraying Someone I Loved
• How Going on the First Date Felt Like: Describe This Time and Your Emotions
• Getting a Gift I Always Dreamed About: Celebration That I Could Never Forget
• Describe an Event That Helped You Understand What Career You Would Like to Have
• City I Used to Live In: Describe Its Physical Appearance and Places It Had
• Visiting Escape Room: Challenges, Excitement, Fear, & Complexity
• The Happiest Day I Could Remember in My Life

Make Writing Exciting and Look for Help When In Need

As you had a chance to see, there are plenty of diverse ideas for descriptive essays. So, if you cannot come up with something on your own, don’t let it worry or embarrass you. Look for assistance: check related lists online, talk to other people, visit forums for discussions and brainstorm with your classmates. If you aren’t sure whether you feel up to writing, you could always let us know, and our team will gladly help. Inspiration is a big part of writing success, so it’s vital not to make a mistake when choosing what your paper is going to be about. Try to find it, and your chances at succeeding will grow!

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300 + Engaging Descriptive Essay Topics to Inspire your Creativity

A descriptive essay is a type of writing that uses words to give a vivid description of a person, place, or thing. It’s not only about what’s real, it’s about using language to make a scene that draws your readers in. However, with so many possible topics to choose from, it can be tough to know where to start. That’s why we’ve put together this comprehensive list of over 300 engaging descriptive essay topics that are sure to inspire your creativity. So give it a read before you hunt someone to entertain your ‘ write my essay ‘ request.

Table of Contents

300 Unique Descriptive Essay Topics for College Students

Descriptive essays give you the chance to use words to create a vivid image for your readers. With these exciting and intriguing topics, you can showcase your writing flair alongside learning about amazing subjects. Here you go with the first one:

Write about your favorite college courses.

How would you describe yourself being a student?

What are your goals for the future?

Your dream job description, what are your demands, and what your strengths are?

Why did you choose to take this degree course?

What are the three things you love about your institution the most?

Describe an important lesson that has made an impact on your life or what makes school.

The topic of my dream university.

My study advice..

My favorite professor.

My favorite book.

Why do I want to study abroad?

My study spaces and the overall positive impact on my brain.

What did I study today?

What does my university offer that other universities don’t offer?

A day in my life as a student and how it differs from those who aren’t students?

How does studying make me feel?

The best and worst things about studying in an overcrowded class.

A look into day-to-day life at a university.

Challenges faced by students while completing their degree.

What’s it like to be a university student in a city you don’t live in?

My experience with a new teaching format on campus.

A day on campus from start to finish, including the morning commute.

My struggles with maintaining my GPA and staying motivated.

The benefits of taking online courses, and what I’ve learned from them.

Thoughts on whether or not college is worth it?

What’s your study routine?

What do you like best about your academic life?

How do you find the balance between your academic and social life?

What has been the most challenging aspect of your degree and how have you overcome it so far?

Top Descriptive Essay Topics for College Students

Crafting a descriptive essay can be a fun and exciting experience since it allows you to express your imagination in a special manner. Our list of top descriptive essay topics is your opportunity to find a topic that reflects your interests and passion. Here you go:

Do you prefer studying or partying? Why?

What’s the biggest challenge that you’ve faced in university so far and what did you do to overcome it?

How does someone go about choosing a university course that suits them best academically and personally?

What are the reasons you want to pursue your studies?

What are your short-term and long-term study goals?

How do you devote yourself to studies in the present time?

What is the most memorable event in your academic life so far?

How would you define “success” after completing university study?

How do you envision a perfect university life for yourself?

Which academic experiences have been the most valuable one’s for you so far, and why?

What is your favorite pastime activity outside of studying, which helps with your studies as well as relieves stress from the daily grind of studying?

In what ways can students contribute to society during or after university?

The first day of college life.

Studying in a hostel.

Studying abroad, benefits and difficulties.

Experiences with professors.

Do you think students should be given grades on their participation in class?

Should some universities offer more than a one-degree program?

Is it true that studying is more than just rote memorization and the acquisition of facts?

What are your thoughts on the idea of college as a “fun” experience, as opposed to an intense intellectual pursuit?

What are your thoughts on the idea that college should prepare people for life outside of school, rather than just focusing on academics?

Do you think it has become harder or easier to get into university in recent years? Why do you think this is the case, if so?

Diversity in the study.

Learning a foreign language.

Studying in the United States.

Study guides for high school students.

Tips for studying better.

Tips for passing tests.

Pro tips for studying better at home, online, or on the go with laptops, tablets, or smartphones.

The Writing Center at Duke University.

Trendy Descriptive Essay Topics 

Keeping up with the latest trends is more important than ever. As a college student, you have the unique opportunity to explore and describe these trends in your descriptive essays. Our list of trendy descriptive essay topics will not only challenge your writing skills but also allow you to delve into the hottest topics and ideas of the moment.

The Importance of Learning to Write Well in College Courses.

The Hazards of Writing a Research Paper Too Quickly.

My Personal Study Habits and What I Learned from Them.

How Studying Abroad Changed My Life Forever?

7 time management techniques that worked for me.

8 Common Study Mistakes You Can Avoid.

Do I Need to Write This Paper? Scope of your research topic?

What are the best ways you have found to write your research paper?

Describe how studying has helped you grow as a person.

What do you think is important about studying?

What are the benefits of working while studying?

When did you first start studying smartly and how?

Why does it take so long for some students to learn things, while others seem to pick up things quickly?

Why did you pick your major or what your major is?

Stress levels from a student’s point of view.

The importance of sleep during exams and tough study days.

The pressure to do well in all subjects.

Studying practices for exams.

Stressful moments in exams.

Exam-sickness.

Possible ways of Staying on top of your workload.

Things about yourself that make you unique, like a talent or skill that not many people have or something that helped you overcome a challenge in life.

How doing an activity has impacted who you are as a person and why it is important to continue doing the activity in the future?

A time you felt proud of yourself during your educational career.

A time you felt like giving up but didn’t.

“How Do You Plan to Use Your Studies After Graduation?”

“Describe What You Study in School and How It Fits into the Bigger Picture of Your Life.”

“If All of Your Time Were Spent on School, What Would Be the One Class That Would Be Most Important to Take?”

“Do You Plan to Pursue Graduate or Professional School?” (Undergraduate only – Graduate school is for graduate students only!)

Having the 10 perfect study habits.

Why did I choose this institute? Why did I choose this major? Why is my university better than others?

“What Classes Do You Take and Why?”

Descriptive Essay Topics for Grade 9

Grade 9 is the perfect opportunity to get into descriptive writing. You can talk about your most cherished childhood memory, or some moment in history that sticks out. Anyways here you go with the list:

A trip to different countries

I was in a difficult situation and resolved

My best gift

My favorite season

My dream houses

My favorite things in my home

My House Rules

A memorable day of my childhood

The happiest day of my life

Discussion of environmental pollution and Waste Management Temperature Trend and Distribution of Population in The Country Under Consideration

My favorite place

Unique experiences with my class

My best subject in school

My favorite field trips

My first day of school

Something new I tried this year

An interesting topic that I’m learning about right now

A positive change in myself and my life this year

My favorite season and how it impacts me

Where do I want to travel in the future?

What are the most important rules of study?

The advantages of using computers in school

Why you should read good literature?

Rules of effective memorizing and how to correctly memorize foreign words

Which teachers can be considered the best?

How to be in a healthy way active?

Favorite place to be alone

The Scariest Thing You’ve Ever Done

An Interesting Person at School

Thoughts of a high school dropout.

Your most cherished belonging.

Being a ballplayer on the court or field.

My experiences as a student with ADD or ADHD.

Talk about your favorite and least favorite vacation experiences.

Write about how important the sense of touch is for – sight, taste, hearing, smell, balance, and movement.

Why is communication such an important skill?

What is happiness and how do you define it?

School – five things you love about it, and five you dislike.

Favorite season – three ways you enjoy it.

Invitation – three reasons you would like to accept it.

Road trip – three stops you might visit on the way.

Experience – three unique things that happened to you.

Idols – three behaviors you admire in them.

Yearbook – ten facts about each person in your school.

What would I like to change about myself?

advantages of volunteering and 5 disadvantages of volunteering – which ones are more important? etc.

How does having a TV affect children’s grades?

What was it like at home when you were a kid?

A Best friend. Describe how your best friend helped you in times of trouble to write a descriptive essay about a person.

Your room when you were a kid, describe how it looked like then?

Describe a day of your life in 5th grade.

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Descriptive Essay Topics About Beaches 

The beach is a popular topic for descriptive writing, as it offers a wealth of sensory experiences to capture and describe in detail. Whether you’re writing about the sound of crashing waves, the feel of sand between your toes, or the smell of salty sea air, there are endless possibilities for descriptive writing about the beach. Here you go with the list. 

What are the people who live near the beach like? The Positive aspects of living near the beach.

What do you hear when you are at the beach?

What is peace?

What other things on the beach can you see?

Describe the water at the beach. The waves, the wind, and how the sky looks?

People are calm and friendly at the beach

The beach is my favorite place

How to go to the beach alone?

Things to avoid on the beach.

Five things you should remember when planning for a beach holiday

Observe the beach

Description of the sea

Description of the sand and rocks

Weather conditions on a day at the beach

The smell and sounds of a day at the beach

The food enjoyed at the beach

People at the beach

Colorful towels and outfits

Entertainment at the beach

Feeling relaxed on a day at the beach

Feel the sand between your toes after long, cold winter months

The sunset over a calm sea filled with warm and blue colors

White houses on the shore and old palm trees against the sky

Stretching and singing as the first rays of the sun appear on the horizon

Splash and foam of young kids playing in shallow water and dragging their moored boat

Boardwalk amusement park rides on the beach.

Ocean wildlife and sea birds

Sophisticated water sports activities

Ocean views from high up

A quiet corner of the beach (where I can be alone?)

Exotic beaches you should visit over summer vacation essay

How To Protect Yourself from Sunburn?

Evolution of Swimwear

History of Surfing

Fitting into Your Swimsuit

Protecting the Sea Creatures

Staying Healthy on The Beach

How to Get a Tan Fast Without Using Sunscreen?

Beach on the holiday

Memories of my childhood at the beach

The beautiful beach vacation aspects

How to organize a trip to an island beach?

Advantages of seaside resort holidays

Vacationing on a tropical island beach

Experience at a lonely pier fishing

A beach vacation with friends and relatives

Stroll on the warm sands during the sunset

Top five things you love about the beach

Top five things you hate about the beach

Five personal experiences on the Beach

Ways to be a good beach tourist

Sound of waves

Colors and shapes of things on the beach

The different sands on the beaches

Beach umbrellas and their uses

Sand sculptures and their methods of creation

Types of fish you can catch while strolling along the beach

Different water sports and their uses at the beach

Nature at the beach: birds and plants that grow wild on the coast

Topics for Descriptive Essay Focusing on Places

From bustling city streets to peaceful rural landscapes, there is no shortage of places to explore and describe in your writing. Speaking of which, we’ve gathered a variety of topics for descriptive essays that focus on places, allowing you to immerse your readers in the world you’re describing. Here’s the list:

A Trip to a Historical Place

Describing my school as one of the destinations in my life

Descriptive Essay on a Park

Where was your favorite holiday destination?

How about your favorite historical city?

What about the place where you met your spouse/significant other?

Describe a place you are going to visit this year!

What’s the most beautiful place you have ever seen?

Describe a typical neighborhood in which you grew up!

Is there any place so special in your city?

The most relaxing place you’ve ever been to

Scariest Place You Have Ever Been To

Overcrowded Places You Have Been To

A bookshop that you have visited

Your home country

Hotels and restaurants where you stayed

Parks and green areas that you visited during your holidays

Places where you have celebrated international day and national day

Events and festivals in your country

Historical buildings in the cities where you live

Museums of your city, with their history

Tourist attractions

A place at school that is important to you

A place you go to every day

Your favorite room in the house

Specific places that are special to you

To describe your house

Your neighborhood parks

Your school playground

Your favorite vacation spots

A place you would like to visit with your friends one day

An exotic place you can dream about only

A small, cozy cafe in the middle of a shopping street and a good place to meet new friends

The natural environment around you: mountain or seaside, or a lake in berry season.

Our Homeland – Meaning and Identity

Great places to visit with your kids

Great places to eat, etc.

An aging building that has been saved from demolition

An office space (maybe your own)

An old house about to be torn down

The most beautiful garden you have ever seen

An airport you can’t wait to revisit

A museum you would like to spend a day in

Experience the royal attractions in London

Find out why Paris is the city of love

Take in the sights of Los Angeles

Capture the images of Rome and its treasures

Watch Niagara Falls flowing to the ground

Relax on the beaches of Hawaii

Be happy in sunny Florida

Topics for Descriptive Essay Focusing on Technology

Tech is a huge part of our everyday lives – it’s like our other half! From our phones to the apps we use, it’s hard to imagine what life would be like without tech. Writing about tech can be really interesting and there’s so much to choose from! Here’s the list:

How does the media affect opinions on technology and Society?

Social consequences of using IT devices

Technology in the classroom

Technology in everyday life

Future of personal technology

Benefits of technology

Drawbacks of the technology

Security risks of technology

Limitations of technology

Describe the first time you used a technology

What was it like before your first experience?

How technology is changing the lives of senior citizens?

How technology is hindering personal development?

How technology is changing the lives of people with disabilities?

How social media is changing human connection?

How to protect yourself from cybercrime?

The growing use of robotics in the workplace?

Inappropriate use at work

The benefits of using virtual collaboration tools

Workplace privacy issues and data breaches

Technology’s Role in the Future of business communication

Technology’s Role in encouraging employee creativity

Do gadgets make us smarter?

The future of wearable technology

High tech materials

Nanotechnology

Mobile phones and tablets (include their features and their risks)

My favorite programming language

Computer hardware (its evolution)

Electronic services and entertainment (streaming, streaming radio, downloading, TV programs)

Technology makes us antisocial

The impact of mobile phones on family relationships

The Benefits and Pitfalls of Technology in Education

How Technology is Changing the Way We Interact with Others?

How Technology is Altering the Way We Do Business?

How do I integrate technology into my curriculum?

What technology is available to help meet the needs of my students?

Technology in space

The influence of technology on sports

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A good descriptive essay can bring things to life. It’s like using your words to create a visual masterpiece. To help you out, we’ve come up with a list of 300+ descriptive essay topics that’ll get your creative juices flowing. Remember to add lots of sensory details, use descriptive language and make sure to get the most out of your words. Still, if you need any help with picking up a good topic for your descriptive essay assignment, just don’t hesitate to order now as one of our experts will reach out instantly.

A descriptive essay is an essay where you describe something like a person, place, thing, or event. Here a writer needs to use sensory details to help the reader get a clear image of what he is talking about.

Go for picking up a topic you're passionate about or have some sort of personal link to. Think of specific details that you can use to make the subject stand out and ensure to keep the readers interested.

To craft a successful descriptive essay, use vivid language to help the reader imagine the topic. Include specific details and use descriptive words to create a clear picture in the mind of the reader. Focus on one specific area of the topic and arrange your essay in an orderly and understandable way.

Dialogue isn't normally part of a descriptive essay, but it can be helpful when you're trying to explain a conversation or interaction with someone. Still, it's best to only use dialogue when it's really going to contribute something to the essay.

There's no one-size-fits-all answer when it comes to the length of a descriptive essay. It depends on what you're writing about and how much detail you're going into. Generally speaking, though, 500-800 words or about 2-3 pages is a good ballpark for this type of essay, which should be enough to give a good sense of the topic you're describing.

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50 Descriptive Essay Topics

Make your reader see, smell, hear and feel with these inspirational descriptive essay topics ! We’ve collected 50 descriptive essay topics to sprout some flowery language. Our descriptive essay topics are designed to spark creative thinking and can be modified for students in elementary, middle and high school. They are grouped by topic for easy student and teacher reference. Feel free to print the entire list for plenty of inspiration for your next descriptive essay assignment!

Descriptive Essay Topics: Place

• Describe your favorite place.
• Describe your ideal bedroom.
• Describe the house in which you grew up.
• Describe what the first house on the moon would look like.
• Describe some of your favorite places in your hometown.
• Describe a peaceful place that you’ve visited.
• Describe a place that exists only in your imagination.
• Describe a friend’s or family member’s house where you enjoy spending time.
• Describe your perfect fantasy vacation destination.
• Describe your favorite store.
• Describe your favorite teacher’s classroom.
• Describe a museum that you’ve visited recently.
• Describe a place you have dreamed about that doesn’t exist in real life.
• Describe a place where your pet likes spending time.
• Describe an outdoor place that you know well.

Descriptive Essay Topics: People

• Describe your favorite person.
• Describe each of your family members.
• Describe a famous person that you would like to meet.
• Describe one of your friends.
• Describe one aspect of someone that you like (for example: laugh, style of dress, words that the person likes to use, etc.)
• Describe yourself to someone who has never met you.
• Describe the average human to an alien who has never before seen a person.
• Describe your pet.
• Look at some old family photos and describe an older family member as he or she was when at your age.
• Describe someone whom you miss.

Descriptive Essay Topics: Objects

• Describe an object that is special to you.
• Give a tour of one room in your house by describing the most important objects in that room.
• Describe one of your favorite outfits.
• Describe your favorite toy as a child.
• Describe how you get around (for example: a bicycle, skateboard, sneakers, your parents’ car, the school bus).
• Describe your favorite piece of furniture where you like to spend time and relax.
• Describe something that you would bury in a time capsule to tell people about what life is like today.
• Describe an object that has been in your family for a long time.
• Choose a piece of food to eat; then, write a description of it that includes the way it looks, smells and tastes.
• Describe a smartphone to a time traveler from the 1900s.

Descriptive Essay Topics: Memories

• Describe your oldest memory.
• Describe your best summer vacation.
• Describe a memorable concert you attended.
• Describe a memorable trip you took.
• Describe a special time that you and your family had together.
• Describe the first time you met one of your friends.
• Describe a time you met someone famous.
• Describe one of your happiest memories.
• Describe one of your saddest memories.
• Describe a time that you felt scared.
• Describe a time that you felt excited.
• Describe a time that something totally unexpected happened.
• Describe a memory of someone whom you miss.
• Describe one of your most memorable first days of school.
• Describe one of your most embarrassing moments.

Looking for more essay topics? Compare and Contrast Essay Topics Cause and Effect Essay Topics Narrative Essay Topics Persuasive Essay and Speech Topics

12 Creative Descriptive Essay Prompts

by Suzanne Davis | Dec 12, 2019 | Writing Essays and Papers , Writing Prompts | 13 comments

“Description is what makes the reader a sensory participant in the story.”  –Stephen King

Stephen King wrote about description in stories. But the same advice is correct for descriptive essays.  Get your readers engaged by making them sense and connect with everything you’ve written in your essay.  How can you do that?  Begin with descriptive essay prompts that inspire you to write more.

Then add important details and characteristics or features about the person, place, object, or experience in your essay.  The more detail and elements you add to a descriptive essay, the better it will be.

So, check out these descriptive writing topics and find the one that will work best for you.

How to Select a Descriptive Essay Prompt

Before you select a descriptive essay topic, see if you can show and not tell your readers about the characteristics, actions, and emotions in that essay.

Maybe you’ve heard writers say, “ Show Don’t Tell .”   This motto is an approach some writers use to make their writing more descriptive.  The word “show” means to portray or illustrate feelings and actions.  And “tell” is when a writer says what the emotions and actions are.

For example, “ The black poodle snarled and growled.” (showing) vs. “The black poodle was angry and fierce.” (telling)

In the example above, the first sentence shows that the black poodle was angry because it snarled and growled.  The second sentence says or tells us that the dog was angry and fierce.

Use the “ Show Don’t Tell”  approach in your descriptive essay by asking these questions about the 5 senses:

• What did you see?
• What did you hear?
• What did you touch?
• What did you smell?
• What did you taste?

You probably won’t have answers to all these questions.   (Or at least if you write about a mountain, I hope you can’t describe how tastes.) But write “Show Don’t Tell ” content wherever you can in your essay.

The 12 descriptive essay prompts here, give you the freedom to develop your content in different ways, and with a lot of sensory details. They are divided into 4 categories: person, place, object, and experience.  Each type has 3 descriptive essay writing ideas.   For each writing prompt, brainstorm how you can develop that essay.

Descriptive WritingTopics About a Person

# 1 describe the strangest person you ever met.

Strange people are easy to remember, and if you remember a different, odd, or unique person, you’ll have a lot of information you can write on.  Before you choose this topic, brainstorm a few ideas about this person.

Questions to develop this essay topic : What seemed strange about this person?  What characteristics did he/she possess? How did you feel about this person?

# 2 Describe a person you envied .

Envy or jealousy is a powerful emotion.  When you focus on a person you were jealous of, there are reasons and characteristics for why you felt that way.

Questions to develop this essay topic: What traits or characteristics did this person have?  How did that person look? How did this person act?  What made you envy him/her?

# 3 Describe an inspiring friend or family member.

We remember people who inspire us.  And people love to read about inspiring individuals.  If you describe an inspiring person, think about the impact that a person made on you.

Questions to develop this essay topic:   What did this person do that was inspiring?   How did that person act toward others?

Descriptive Writing Topics About a Place

# 4 describe a spooky or haunted place ..

If you describe a scary place, include a lot of sensory details.  Spooky and haunted places are memorable.

Questions to develop this essay topic:   What did this place look like?  Where was it located?  What did you see, hear, smell, or feel at this place?  Did you find someone or something that scared you?  Why is this place, spooky?

# 5 Describe a place you loved as a child.

People love to know things about another person’s childhood. A great way to show who you are is to describe a place that was important to you.  If you select this writing topic, make sure you remember this place well.

Questions to develop this essay topic : How did this place look? What did you do at this place?  Was anyone else at this there?  How did you feel about the area?

# 6 Describe a beautiful location in nature.

You could describe a mountain, body of water, campground, desert, etc.  Or any other place that is outdoors and part of nature.

Questions to develop this essay topic:   What did this place look like?  How did you feel when you were there? Did you hear, smell, taste, or touch anything at the location? Was there anyone else with you?  What did you do at this place?

Descriptive WritingTopics About an Object

# 7 Describe a lucky object.

It can be any lucky object, a good luck charm, an heirloom object, etc.  Select something you believe brings you good luck.

Q uestions to develop this essay topic:   What are the characteristics of this object? How is it used?  What makes this a lucky object?

# 8 Describe a piece of art.

It can be a photograph, painting, sculpture, etc.  There are a lot of sensory details you can include in a descriptive essay about a piece of art.

Questions to develop this essay topic:  What does this work of art look?  Can you touch it?  If so, how does it feel?   What are the emotions you have when you see this sculpture, painting, photograph, etc.?

# 9 Describe an object used in your favorite sport or hobby.

If you have a favorite sport or hobby, describe an object that is relevant to that sport.  For example, if you play tennis, describe a tennis racket.  Or, if you collect coins, describe a unique coin from your collection.

Questions to develop this essay topic:   What are the characteristics or features of this object?  How is it used?  What is significant about this object?  What are some sensory details you can add?

Descriptive Essay Topics About an Experience

# 10 describe the first time you drove a car or rode a bicycle..

First-time experiences are emotional and significant to people.  If you haven’t driven a car or ridden a bicycle, write about another first-time experience.

Questions to develop this essay topic:   What did you see, hear, touch, smell, or taste during this experience?  What did you do?  Were others involved?  If so, what did they do? How did you feel during this experience?  How do you feel about it now?

# 11 Describe a hike or special walk you took .

Do you recall a hike you took or a walk on a trail, path, or street? If so, describe that memory.

Questions to develop this essay topic:   What was the place you were at like? What did you hear, see, smell, taste, or touch during this experience?  What did you do?  What did anyone else do?

# 12   Describe a happy memory.

Write about a happy experience you can remember clearly.    This topic involves remembering what occurred and how you felt during that experience.

Questions to develop this essay topic:   What made this experience happy? What happened?  Who else was there?  Can you describe them?

Writing a Descriptive Essay

The key to writing a descriptive essay is to show or portray to a reader the significant elements of a person, place, object, or experience.  So, select an essay topic that you connect with, and develop it with sensory details.  If you do this, you’ll achieve what Stephen King does in his writing and “make the reader a sensory participant.”  When you do that, your readers will want to keep reading until the end.

Make them wish your essay continued so that they could read even more!

So which descriptive essay prompt inspires you?  And if you want more creative writing prompts, check out my blog post, “13 Thought-Provoking Personal Narrative Prompts” https://www.academicwritingsuccess.com/13-thought-provoking-personal-narrative-prompts/.

Suzanne,I enjoy reading your articles. Loved your sense of humour ‘(Or at least if you write about a mountain, I hope you can’t describe how tastes.)’. I tried to share this article in my Pinterest account, but somehow something went wrong and it did not allow me to do it.

I’m glad you enjoyed the article. I do try to be funny whenever I can. I’m having a problem right now with my article pinning. I’m working on it.

Loved the “show, not tell” explanation. It really made sense. I’m a visual learner, so I really liked the visual for the 12 descriptive essay prompts in both written form and as a image. You gave me a lot of good ideas for starting a descriptive essay!

Terri, I’m glad you liked my infographic for the post. I love designing visual images for articles. Let me know if you use one of the descriptive essay prompts. I’d love to know how it worked for you.

Excellent. I like the sensory detail questions. It brings the writing to a new level.

Raven, thank you. Sensory details are great for developing writing. They really help writers of all ages.

Nice article, Suzanne. I love using prompts with my students. I might be nervous of the prompt “Describe the strangest person you ever met.” For many of my students I would have the starring role in that one! 🙂 Using the basic five senses to help students expand upon their writing is also very good. So many students write one sentence and then get stuck. Prompting questions can really help them broaden their thoughts.

Ron, thank you. I might be nervous about the “strangest person you ever met” prompt too. But, I’m hoping there are other strange people students could write about too!

Love these! In this generation of “just getting the point across”, it is so difficult to get some students to be descriptive in their writing.It would be hard for any student to not be descriptive using these prompts. When working on writing with students, I always use the five senses to show them how their writing will be more interesting to any reader when it is descriptive. Thanks for sharing!

Thank you,Randy. Descriptive writing is a challenge, but finding a good descriptive writing prompt and using the 5 senses makes a huge difference.

Also, that is a great quote by Stephen King!

Hi Suzanne! Excellent post! I love the creative prompts. They’re helpful, whether one is writing fiction or non-fiction.

You have a great site. Will stop by again. I know I’ll learn lots here.

P.S. Thanks for stopping by my site. I appreciate your feedback.

Hi Nadine, Thanks so much. I am glad you stopped by and checked out my post on descriptive writing prompts. I love prompts because they can make you think about writing in different ways. And sometimes I just need help getting started. I enjoyed your post on writing spaces. I’ll be visiting your site again.

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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 a descriptive 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.

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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

In a descriptive 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.

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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, descriptive essay 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 a descriptive essay 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 descriptive essay 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 compose descriptive essays 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!

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270 Good Descriptive Essay Topics and Writing Tips

As simple as it is, the purpose of the descriptive essay is to explain or portray its subject. It can focus on any topic or issue you want to write about. Be sure that any middle school, high school, or college student can manage this type of creative writing assignment! You just need a good descriptive writing topic.

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This article will help you find the best idea for your paper. Read on to see a list of descriptive essay topics, prompts, tips, and a writing guide. And don’t hesitate to ask our custom writing experts to help you write a short story or a complicated paper. They will help with any topic for descriptive essay.

• 🔝 Top 10 Topics

✅ Types of Descriptive Essays

• ✍️ Writing Tips
• ⚙️ Process Description
• 💭 Narrative
• 🖥️ Technical
• 🤔 Associations
• ❤️ Favorite Things

🔍 References

🔝 top 10 descriptive essay topics.

• Your go-to confidant
• Your own superstition
• How you revise for exams
• Your favorite time of the day
• Your favorite character trait
• What makes you respect a person
• What makes you dislike a book
• How you overcome hardships in life
• Something you can’t imagine your life without
• The most memorable movie you watched as a child

The first thing you need to know is that there are two types of descriptive essays:

• Concrete – an essay about something specific that human senses can perceive. Describe the things you can see, touch, smell, feel, and hear.
• Abstract – an essay about something you feel emotionally or perceive cognitively. Write about emotions, situations, experiences, relationships, and art.

This article lists topics for concrete as well as abstract descriptive essays. Choose one you like the most, and get down to writing!

✍️ Descriptive Essay Writing Tips

Writing a descriptive essay is about making the readers want to taste the food or watch a movie you discussed. Here are a few things that will help you write an excellent descriptive essay on any topic.

• Topic and a thesis. Review this article and choose a subject you like the most. Next, come up with the thesis statement. The statement should be attention-catching and reflect the main focus of the paper.
• An outline. This step is essential for essays of any length. Start the outline with an introduction and finish with a conclusion. Write out the main themes/thoughts, make them into paragraphs.
• Introduction (with a thesis)
• The moment Oreo got into my arms
• Choosing the name
• Playing with Oreo for the first time
• The five senses. Including sensory details will take your paper on another level! Write out the details and adjectives that engage each of the senses.
• Smell: sweet, fresh, pleasant, etc.
• Touch: fluffy, soft, warm, scratching, etc.
• Hearing: mewing, loud, quiet, etc.
• Vision: sizes, colors, movements, etc.
• Taste: sweet milk, refreshing water, etc.

Tip: use transition words, such as afterwards, before that, in the meantime . It will make your essay logically flow.

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• Write, write, write. Time to fill out your outline! Choose clear and vivid language. In conclusion, leave the reader with an “I’ve been there with you” or “I know what you’re talking about” feeling.
• Review and turn in. Proofread what you wrote and ask a peer to do the same. Make as many changes as needed. After polishing your paper, turn it in and expect a good grade.

⚙️ Process Description Topics for an Essay

A process essay explains how to do something. It can also describe how something occurs. Cooking instructions, a tutorial, or chronology of events can serve as a basis for a descriptive paper. Take a look at this list of interesting topics:

• Learning to drive a car.
• How to a cook a Thanksgiving dinner .
• Ways to match colors in clothing.
• Giving a cozy look to a room.

• How to build a wooden table.
• How can you open a coffee shop ?
• Organizing a road trip .
• Easy way to save money for a car.
• The process of learning to ride a bike.
• How can you become a professional Instagram influencer ?
• Describe the development of an embryo .
• What is water cycle in nature?
• Learning to play an instrument .
• How to choose a university degree .
• How does the wind form?
• The process of creating a video game .
• Describe the lifecycle of a flower.
• The stages of making a movie.
• How is electricity generated?
• The process of launching a spaceship.

💭 Descriptive Narrative Essay Topics

The main objective of a narrative essay is to tell a story. Descriptive words can help your audience to relive the event with you. Write out your memories, and use them as a foundation for the paper.

• The day you got a pet .
• Describe a life-threatening experience.
• The moment you realized you are in love .
• When was the happiest day of your life?
• A day when you changed your opinion about someone.
• Describe an experience of losing something valuable.
• Write about overcoming the saddest event in your life.
• Describe the beginning of a precious friendship .
• Your favorite vacation experience.
• A day when you got a bad grade.
• What is your most vivid childhood memory?
• Describe a case of misunderstanding.
• The toughest task you had to fulfill.
• Recall a day when you broke something.
• A situation when you had to act like an adult.
• What was the hardest conversation you’ve ever had?
• The experience of going through heartbreak.

• Describe a situation where you had to make a difficult decision .
• Write about moving to another city.
• One time when you ate eating something very delicious.

🖥️ Technical Description Topics for an Essay

If you’re a tech lover, this section is just what you need. A technical descriptive essay can focus on any mechanism or invention. Help the reader to understand the function of a piece of technology. But first, check out the following list of ideas for a technical descriptive paper:

• Functions of a smart watch .
• What’s the purpose of an iPod ?
• Describe the parts of an AK-47.
• How does touch screen work?
• Explain how a smartphone can count steps.
• What are the main features of virtual assistants?
• How do computers read CDs ?
• Describe the structure of a camera lens.
• The functioning of wireless headphones.
• What’s the purpose of car cylinders?
• How does artificial intelligence evolve?
• What are the parts of an old-fashioned TV screen?
• How do solar panels work?
• Describe the functions of unmanned vehicles .
• How do ATMs detect values of bills?
• How does traffic pulse technology work?
• How does virtual reality function?
• Purpose of 5G mobile technology.
• Describe the parts of a speed sensor.
• Explain the functioning of a weather station.

🏫 Descriptive Essay Topics about School

School life is diverse and filled with all kinds of events. This section is all about your personal experience at school. Tell the reader about a memorable episode or a significant person from your life as a student.

• Describe your favorite subject to study.
• Who is your favorite teacher ?
• The best holiday you’ve ever celebrated at school.
• Tell the reader about a recent field trip with your class.
• Describe an event during a school bus ride.
• What it’s like being in a school choir.
• The prom night of your dreams.
• How do you usually do your homework ?
• Bonding with friends from school.

• What is your best friend like?
• Recall the first visit to a principal’s office.
• The experience of playing on a football team.
• Say why you like taking part in the drama class.
• Giving a speech in front of your class.
• What is it like to win a school competition?
• The saddest day in school.
• Recall an embarrassing moment during a break.
• The most memorable art class .
• Describe your favorite science project.
• Reasons why you like your school.

🧶 Descriptive Essay Topics about Hobbies

Everybody has some sort of hobby. Choose one of the things you enjoy doing the most. You can imagine describing it to people who barely know anything about your hobby. Make sure to provide insightful information on your favorite activity. This list of ideas will help you come up with an exciting topic for an essay!

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• How to explore cooking as a hobby.
• What do you like about knitting?
• Why do you enjoy fishing ?
• What dancing means to you.
• Do you play sports as a hobby?
• Playing card games can be a hobby.
• What instrument do you play?
• Say why you love singing.
• What is great about recording videos?
• Why do you like journaling ?
• Playing video games for relaxation.
• How did you start painting?
• What do you enjoy about crafting?
• Why is car repair fun?
• Do you consider shopping a hobby?
• Your favorite thing about gardening .
• Meditation as a way to relax.
• Your favorite thing about magic tricks.
• Do you watch movies as a hobby?
• What do you enjoy about reading ?

🎨 Descriptive Writing Topics about Art

Writing a descriptive essay on art can be an exciting assignment. It will require your observations and knowledge. Research the necessary information about the chosen subject. It will be better if you spend some time observing and appreciating the artwork before writing about it. Use these elements as a foundation for your paper.

• What are the peculiarities of abstract paintings ?
• Describe the process of creating a portrait.
• What are the main features of the still life genre?
• Why are shades essential in a drawing?
• Variations of texture in art.
• Use of focal points in photography.
• How can a person appreciate a painting ?
• What do you like about Van Gogh’s art?
• Your impression of The Kiss by Klimt .
• Primary colors of Da Vinci’s Mona Lisa .

• Describe the process of creating a marble sculpture.
• Essential elements of sculpting.
• Your impression of Michelangelo’s David .
• What makes Dama Velata by Corradini beautiful?
• Describe the process of carving.
• What are the main features of poetry ?
• The artwork of your favorite album.
• Write about your impression of Greek mythology .
• Describe the life of a famous artist .
• A piece of art that impacted you the most.

🎥 Descriptive Essay Topics about Movies

A descriptive essay about a movie might seem like an easy assignment. However, it’s not that simple when your task is to review a film. You can focus on the characters, the plot, or the film’s technical side. Use critical thinking and analytical skills.

• Describe the Corleone family from The Godfather . 
• What makes Doctor Zhivago poetic? 
• The use of slow motion in The Matrix . 
• Write about your impression of Knives Out . 
• Cinematography in Gravity . 
• Visual effects used in City Lights . 
• What do you like about music from Singin’ in the Rain ? 
• Character development in Forrest Gump . 
• The ending of Inception . 
• What was your reaction to the twist in A Beautiful Mind ? 
• Describe the main characters from Catch Me if You Can . 
• Speak about the plot of Shawshank Redemption . 
• What’s your favorite scene from Dark Knight Rises ? 
• The plot of Titanic . 
• What makes The Truman Show funny? 
• The pivotal scene from Braveheart . 
• What was your impression of The Help ? 
• Family dynamics in the Pursuit of Happiness . 
• Friendship in Green Book . 
• What makes Groundhog Day heartbreaking? 

📚 Descriptive Writing Topics about Books

As a student, you are getting familiar with various books and authors. Think about the book that you enjoyed reading the most. Write about characters, the storyline, your impressions, or the lesson learned from a book.

• What’s your favorite book, and why? 
• A novel that played a significant role in your life. 
• Write about a book character that impressed you the most. 
• A fictional world where you would like to live. 
• What’s your favorite scene from a book? 
• Which fictional character could become your friend? 
• The novel that resonates with you the most? 
• Your impression of Alice’s Adventures in Wonderland . 
• Graphic elements used in The Book Thief . 

• Summarize the plot of Gone with the Wind . 
• Describe the character of Huck Finn from Mark Twain’s books. 
• Share your impression of The Great Gatsby by F. Scott Fitzgerald . 
• What’s your favorite scene from Little Women by Louisa May Alcott ? 
• Describe the relationship between the main characters in Pride and Prejudice . 
• The plot of The Da Vinci Code . 
• Love in The Little Prince . 
• The dystopia of The Hunger Games . 
• Describe the main characters from Frankenstein . 
• What is the central scene in Memoirs of a Geisha by Arthur Golden? 
• Share your impression of War and Peace by Leo Tolstoy. 

🏝️ Descriptive Paper Topics about Places

In a descriptive essay places can be real or imaginary. Consider the location that impressed you the most or a place you want to visit. You can describe your favorite spot in the city or a fiction kingdom. This list will help you land on the best topic for the descriptive essay.

• Your favorite corner in your house. 
• Describe your dream room. 
• The house you want to live in: what does it look like? 
• Your favorite coffee shop . 
• Study spot of your choice. 
• Describe a perfect restaurant . 
• What is your grandparents’ house like? 
• Write about your favorite place to hang out. 
• Your favorite vacation destination . 
• A place where you got lost. 
• Which fiction location do you want to visit? 
• A European city you’d like to see. 
• What is the most beautiful place you’ve seen? 
• Which state do you want to visit? 
• Describe the most beautiful tropical island in the world. 
• What historical site do you wish to see? 
• The mall where you like to go shopping. 
• Which century would you like to time-travel to? 
• A place you’d never want to visit. 
• Describe a perfect park. 

🤔 Descriptive Essay Topics: Associations

Associations are mental connections between ideas, feelings, objects, or events. The human brain makes them automatically. Take your time to write a descriptive essay about associations. The following list will help you choose a good topic for a paper:

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• What do you associate with family holidays? 
• Feelings while listening to your favorite song. 
• What does a favorite TV show remind you of? 

• What comes to your mind when you’re looking at an old caste? 
• Associations you have when watching a favorite movie. 
• How does rainy weather make you feel? 
• What does your favorite painting remind you of? 
• Your feelings after reading a poem. 
• Memories associated with your childhood house. 
• What comes to your mind when talking about family ? 
• What do you picture when thinking about traveling overseas? 
• Thinking about a vacation . 
• What do you mentally picture when looking at business clothes? 
• What emotions do you connect with sports activity? 
• What do you associate with saying goodbye? 
• A mental image you have of yourself. 
• What comes to your mind when talking about love ? 
• What does the taste of chocolate remind you of? 
• What do you think about while eating your favorite food? 
• Things you associate with your name. 

👫 Descriptive Essay Topics about People

A descriptive essay about people can focus on several aspects of a person. You can describe somebody’s appearance, behavior, or personality. But there is one important thing to keep in mind: be polite!

• A famous person from my city. 
• Describe your parents’ personalities. 
• The appearance of your favorite movie star. 
• Describe your best friend. 
• An athlete you look up to. 
• The person you miss the most. 
• What are your grandparents like? 
• The personality of your childhood toy. 
• A historical figure you’d like to meet. 
• What character traits do you value in people? 
• A person you will remember forever. 
• A person you have strong feelings for. 
• Describe your siblings . 
• Somebody you respect . 
• The kind of person you want to become. 
• Which celebrity would you like to meet? 
• Describe your appearance . 
• Your favorite teacher’s personality . 
• Someone you ran into recently. 
• Cultural differences you notice in people. 

❤️ Descriptive Writing Topics: Favorite Things

Did you ever have a favorite toy? Or maybe you’ve bought something special recently? Describe an object that you have appreciated at some point in your life. This list will help choose the topic for your essay:

• Your favorite breakfast food. 
• What hot beverage do you enjoy? 
• The most beautiful sea landscape you’ve ever seen. 
• The prettiest building in your city. 
• A doll you treasure. 

• Your first bicycle ride.  
• Which outfits are you always ready to wear? 
• A car you wish to have. 
• Your favorite sports equipment. 
• An electronic device you use daily. 
• Flowers you enjoy the most. 
• A sculpture you wish to have at your house. 
• Which pair of shoes you wish would never wear out? 
• A notebook you want to keep your whole life. 
• Your favorite genre of literature . 
• A musical Instrument you cherish the most. 
• A must-have household object. 
• Which kitchen item does your family often use? 
• The painting you admire the most. 
• What’s your most prized possession? 

📅 Descriptive Essay Topics about Events

Did you notice how often you describe events to people around you? It happens naturally! Review your memories for exciting or significant events. Practice your storytelling skills and use descriptive vocabulary in your paper:

• Cruise you wish to go to. 
• The most memorable day at school. 
• The best Christmas in your life. 
• Fun memories you share with your friends. 
• An unusual historical event . 
• The most exciting birthday party . 
• Describe an event when you got lost. 
• A memorable camping trip. 
• Fun hiking experience. 
• A story of how you took part in a competition. 
• Experience while attending a sports game . 
• What childhood events impacted you the most? 
• Describe your dream trip. 
• An event that made you nervous. 
• Describe your first date . 
• A fun movie night experience. 
• Write about your favorite sleepover. 
• A memorable event you watched on TV. 
• Your first time being on stage. 
• The worst experience at the doctor’s office. 

We hope this article was helpful. Good luck with your descriptive essay!

• Writing Descriptive Essays: Purdue University
• Descriptive Essay: Excelsior College
• Descriptive Writing: Indiana University of Pennsylvania
• The Descriptive Narrative Essay: Southeastern Louisiana University
• This List of 50 Low-cost Hobbies Will Excite You: Lifehack
• 40 Most Beautiful Places in the World: Harper’s Bazaar
• 30 Books Everyone Should Read At Least Once In Their Lives: Lifehack
• A Definition of Descriptive Detail: Colorado State University
• Different Kinds of Association: Wall Street International Magazine
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How to Write a Descriptive Essay: Writing Tips & Examples

Imagine painting a vivid picture with words, capturing the reader’s imagination, and transporting them to a different world. That’s the power of a well-written descriptive essay. But how does one harness that power and create a masterpiece? In this comprehensive guide on how to write a descriptive essay, we’ll explore the intricacies of descriptive essays, from understanding their purpose to mastering the language, and everything in between.

Table of Contents

Descriptive Essay Writing: Key Takeaways

• Descriptive essays strive to create a vivid experience for the reader through concrete details and sensory language.
• The purpose of descriptive writing is to provide an engaging representation of the subject, aiding in forming understanding.
• Through self-review, peer feedback and editing tools one can craft a polished essay that leaves a lasting impression on readers.

What is a Descriptive Essay?

Descriptive essays are more than just a simple narration or description of a subject. They aim to provide a detailed and vivid depiction of a subject using concrete details and figurative language, engaging the reader’s senses. Whether it’s describing a family member, a favorite food, or a memorable experience, the goal is to paint a picture so vivid that the reader feels as if they’re experiencing it firsthand. A good descriptive essay achieves this by striking the perfect balance between narration and sensory details.

To achieve this, writers must use vivid language and create a strong sense of imagery. They are.

Purpose of a Descriptive Essay

The primary objective of a descriptive essay is to create a clear and detailed picture of a subject, allowing the reader to visualize and understand it. It’s about immersing the reader into the world the writer has crafted, much like an argumentative essay, which seeks to convince readers of a particular viewpoint.

A descriptive essay, however, focuses on creating a sensory experience, engaging the reader on a deeper level with the subject, rather than just communicating facts.

Characteristics of Descriptive Writing

Descriptive writing possesses certain key characteristics, which include organization, detail, sensory language, factual information, and the abstention of opinions. Organization is crucial as it helps the reader comprehend the essay and follow the writer’s line of reasoning.

Detail and sensory language bring the subject to life, creating a vivid image in the reader’s mind, while factual information and the absence of opinions ensure an accurate and unbiased portrayal of the subject.

Choosing Descriptive Essay Topics

The beauty of descriptive essays lies in the versatility of their subjects. From people and characters to places, objects, emotions, and experiences, there’s a whole world of topics waiting to be explored. When selecting a topic, consider aspects of your own experience, things that interest you, or subjects that hold personal significance.

The key is to choose a subject that you can describe in detail, allowing your reader to immerse themselves in the vivid world you create.

People and Characters

Descriptive essays about people and characters allow you to dive deep into the intricacies of their personalities, traits, and relationships. You can focus on family members, friends, teachers, or even fictional characters. When writing a personal essay about a person, consider aspects such as their physical appearance, personality, behavior, habits, and accomplishments.

This provides a comprehensive and engaging portrayal of the entire essay that will captivate your reader.

Places and Settings

Places and settings provide a rich canvas for descriptive essays. They can be real or fictional locations, such as hometowns, schools, or imaginary worlds. When describing a place, focus on its physical characteristics, cultural significance, or historical importance. This will create a multi-dimensional image that transports your reader to the location and enables them to experience it as if they were there themselves.

By focusing on the details of the place, you can create a vivid and engaging description.

Objects and Items

Descriptive essays about objects and items give you the opportunity to examine everyday items or objects with personal significance in a new light. From a cherished family heirloom to a simple household item, the possibilities are endless.

To create a vivid description, focus on sensory details such as texture, color, smell, taste, and sound. By exploring these aspects, you’ll breathe life into the object and make it come alive for your reader.

Emotions and Experiences

Emotions and experiences are a goldmine for descriptive essays. By delving into your own feelings and personal reflections, you can create an intimate and powerful portrayal of an emotion or experience. Consider topics such as love, fear, happiness, or sadness, as well as personal experiences, memories, and favorite things.

Through sensory details and reflection, you’ll create a palpable connection with your reader, allowing them to share in your emotional journey.

Crafting a Descriptive Essay Outline

An outline is an indispensable tool in crafting a descriptive essay. It helps organize your thoughts, create a smooth flow, and ensure that your essay is structured coherently. A typical descriptive essay outline consists of an introduction, body paragraphs, and a conclusion.

By following this structure, you’ll ensure that your essay flows seamlessly from one section to the next, making it easy for your reader to follow along and understand your message.

Introduction

A strong descriptive essay introduction, also known as an introductory paragraph, is essential for capturing your reader’s attention and setting the stage for your descriptive essay. It should be brief, engaging, and introduce the subject you’ll be describing. The introduction should also include a well-crafted thesis statement, which provides a succinct overview of the main arguments of your essay.

By starting with a compelling introduction, you’ll entice your reader to continue reading and immerse themselves in the world you’ve created.

Body Paragraphs

The body paragraphs of your descriptive essay should focus on specific aspects of your subject, using vivid language and sensory details to create a rich and immersive experience for your reader. Each paragraph should begin with a topic sentence that encapsulates the main idea of the paragraph and connects it to the overall thesis statement. By following the descriptive essay format, you can ensure a well-structured and engaging piece of writing, such as a five paragraph essay.

Remember to use transition words to guide your reader through your essay and maintain a logical flow. These words can help you to move from one idea to the next, and to connect the ideas.

In the conclusion of your descriptive essay, it’s important to restate your thesis statement and provide a brief reminder of the topics you’ve covered. This helps to reinforce your main points and bring your essay full circle.

Consider leaving your reader with something to ponder or a memorable phrase that encapsulates the essence of your essay. A strong conclusion will leave a lasting impression on your reader, ensuring that your descriptive essay is not soon forgotten.

Mastering Descriptive Language

The key to a captivating descriptive essay lies in the language you use. Mastering descriptive language involves harnessing the power of figurative language, sensory details, and strong word choices to create a memorable and vivid description. By employing these techniques, you’ll not only paint a vivid picture for your reader, but also evoke their emotions and engage their senses, creating a truly immersive experience.

Using figurative language, such as metaphors and similes, can help you to create a vivid visual.

Figurative Language

Figurative language, such as metaphors and similes, can add depth and creativity to your descriptive essay. These literary devices help convey unique perspectives and create memorable effects. For example, instead of simply describing a park as green and lush, you could use a metaphor to compare it to a paradise or a simile to liken it to an oasis.

By using figurative language, you’ll breathe new life into your descriptions and leave a lasting impression on your reader.

Sensory Details

Sensory details are the secret ingredient that makes your descriptive essay come alive. By appealing to your reader’s senses of sight, sound, touch, taste, and smell, you’ll create a vivid and immersive experience that goes beyond mere description. For example, instead of simply saying that a room is warm, you could describe the gentle caress of the sunlight on your skin, the soft hum of the air conditioner, and the faint scent of cinnamon in the air.

By incorporating sensory details, you’ll transport your reader into the world you’ve created.

Word Choice

The words you choose can make or break your descriptive essay. Precise and original words can help you avoid clichés and create a strong impression on your reader. Be mindful of your word choice, and consider using a thesaurus to find alternative words that better capture the essence of your subject.

By selecting the right words, you’ll not only create a vivid image in your reader’s mind, but also convey your unique perspective on the subject.

Reviewing and Revising Your Descriptive Essay

The final step in crafting a captivating descriptive essay is to review and revise your work. This process involves self-review, peer feedback, and the use of editing tools to ensure that your essay is polished and error-free.

By carefully reviewing your work and incorporating feedback, you’ll ensure that your descriptive essay is the best it can be, leaving your reader with a memorable and vivid experience.

Self-Review

Self-review is an essential part of the revision process. Start by taking a break from your essay to gain a fresh perspective. Then read your essay aloud, listening for awkward phrasing or unclear sections.

Ask yourself questions to ensure clarity and coherence, such as “Does the essay make sense?” and “Are there any areas that require additional clarification?” By critically evaluating your work, you’ll be able to identify areas for improvement and make the necessary changes.

Peer Feedback

Peer feedback is another valuable resource in the revision process. Sharing your essay with classmates, friends, or family members can provide fresh insights and suggestions for improvement. Be open to constructive criticism and consider the feedback you receive before making any revisions.

Remember, the goal is to create the best possible version of your descriptive essay, and sometimes an outside perspective can help you see areas for improvement that you might have missed.

Editing Tools

Finally, consider using editing tools to help polish your descriptive essay. Programs like Grammarly can help you identify and correct grammatical errors and improve the overall quality of your writing.

By using editing tools, you can ensure that your essay is not only engaging and vivid, but also polished and professional.

Descriptive Essay Examples and Analysis

Analyzing descriptive essay examples can provide valuable insights into effective writing techniques and strategies. By examining the work of others, you’ll gain a better understanding of how to craft your own descriptive essay and learn new approaches that can help you bring your subject to life.

In this section, we’ll look at two different examples of descriptive essays and discuss the techniques used to create vivid and memorable descriptions.

Consider this descriptive essay example, which showcases classic approaches to descriptive writing: “The small, sunlit room was filled with the scent of freshly brewed coffee and the sound of soft jazz playing in the background. Every surface was covered in a layer of paint splatters, a testament to the artist’s dedication and passion.

The large canvas in the center of the room captured the essence of a summer day, with vibrant colors and bold brushstrokes. This example employs vivid sensory details and strong word choices to create an engaging and memorable description that transports the reader into the world of the artist.

In this second example, the writer takes a different approach to descriptive writing: “The city was a maze of towering skyscrapers, their reflections shimmering in the glassy surface of the river below. The buzz of traffic echoed through the canyon-like streets, while the aroma of street food vendors wafted through the air.

It was a place where dreams and realities collided, each vying for dominance in the ever-changing landscape.” Here, the writer uses figurative language and a more poetic style to convey the atmosphere and energy of the city, creating a vivid and captivating description that leaves a lasting impression on the reader.

Frequently Asked Questions

How do i start a descriptive essay.

To start a descriptive essay, begin by describing an event, place, object, or person in the opening sentence to engage the reader’s attention. Then provide relevant information to support your description, compile pertinent information on the topic, and create an outline prior to writing body paragraphs and a conclusion summarizing the essay.

Lastly, look for ways to enliven your language to make it more vivid and compelling.

How can I write a good descriptive essay?

To write a good descriptive essay, focus on a specific topic and compile information to create an outline. Use vivid details, figurative language, precise language and thoughtful organization to make your writing come alive for the reader.

Include a hook sentence in the introduction, a clear thesis statement and make sure to end with a summarizing conclusion.

What is the format of a descriptive essay?

A descriptive essay is a written account of a particular experience, with a good thesis statement at the beginning of the introduction, three body paragraphs, and a conclusion.

It is written in a coherent style using formal language.

What are the 4 components of descriptive writing?

Descriptive writing typically employs sensory detail, vivid imagery, figurative language, action-packed verbs, and an overall evocative tone to create an engaging narrative for readers.

This type of writing can help readers visualize the story and feel as if they are part of the action. It can also help to draw readers in and keep them engaged with the text.

What is the main goal of a descriptive essay?

The main goal of a descriptive essay is to provide the reader with a vivid and detailed picture of the subject, enabling them to visualize and understand it.

By using descriptive language and sensory details, the writer can create a vivid image in the reader’s mind. This can be done through the use of metaphors, similes, and other literary devices. Additionally, the writer should use vivid verbs.

In conclusion, writing a compelling descriptive essay requires a combination of organization, detail, sensory language, and strong word choice. By understanding the purpose and characteristics of descriptive writing, selecting engaging topics, crafting a well-structured outline, and mastering descriptive language, you’ll be well on your way to creating vivid and memorable essays that captivate your reader.

Remember to review and revise your work, taking advantage of peer feedback and editing tools to ensure a polished final product. With practice and dedication, you’ll soon be painting vivid pictures with words, transporting your readers to new worlds, and leaving a lasting impression.

How To Write A Descriptive Essay?

26 April, 2020

11 minutes read

Author:  Tomas White

Descriptive essay is one of the hardest forms of writing. To master descriptive writing, you must be creative and craft a scene that all readers can picture with words alone. This freedom and creativity can make it one of the most rewarding and fun essays to write. It is the backbone of all artful writing like poetry, novels, and even television scripts. We prepared this guide for You to learn all you need to know about descriptive writing. Let's start!

What is a Descriptive Essay?

The goal of a descriptive essay is simple, choose a subject and describe it. The subject could be anything:

A descriptive essay is all about describing the subject in great detail. Being a type of expository writing , it gives you great freedom to paint a picture with your words, shares a once in a lifetime event with the reader or makes them feel something.  It is better to choose a descriptive essay topic that has lots of qualities to discuss for example a person might have a more interesting feature to describe than a paper towel. Choose a subject you connect with emotionally or have a personal history with. The best descriptions come from retelling an experience.

The Difference Between Descriptive and Narrative Essays

The main difference between descriptive and narrative essays lies in the structure and purpose of the essay. A descriptive essay is used to describe a subject to present a clear picture of it. As such, it only requires you to describe the item in a logic fashion. A narrative essay’s purpose is to tell a story. As such, it requires a plot and logical progression to an outcome. A person’s face can be the subject of a descriptive essay. But it would be hard to write a narrative piece that follows the person’s face as the central plot of a story.

Showing VS Telling

A descriptive essay values details over facts. This is also known as showing vs. telling. To  show  something is to describe using the five senses, how it looks, how it smells, how it tastes, how it feels and how it sounds. Imagine the reader as an alien, who has never experienced the subject for themselves. How would you describe it then?

To give you an understanding of how to differentiate between showing and telling I’ll write an example of a descriptive paper that describes my favorite place.

The above example tells you, as it doesn’t evoke any of your senses. It is a senseless description . It’s vague and hard to imagine.

This description is more detail and easier to imagine because of the following changes:

• The choice of words like ‘haven’ instead of ‘like’ add a showing element as it is showing in what way I like the library.
• Putting describers before items like ‘brightly colored’ books makes it easier to see.
• And choosing words with more like ‘towering’ instead of ‘tall’ makes the description less full.
• The description of the books shows what they do, not what they are. These are important points to consider when writing a descriptive essay.

A good exercise for descriptive writing and is to read descriptive essay examples and pick out the words that do the four points outlined above. Analyzing other’s descriptive writing will make your own descriptive work stronger. Can you pick out another place in the descriptive essay example above where those four changes occur and what it lends to the description?

Still having problems with your descriptive paper? All you need is to request help from our top-notch essay writing service and our essay writer make it for you !

How to Choose a Descriptive Essay Topic?

When deciding what to highlight about your topic, take a step back and look at what draws you to it. A campfire has bright, flickering colors, a satisfying crackling sound, and a sort of flow as it moves from the bottom to the tip of the flame. Place yourself in proximity to the subject and describe the parts that stimulate your senses the most.

Title Examples of Descriptive Essays

Here are some examples of descriptive essay topics that are fun to write:

Pick something you can see right now and think about how you’d describe that.

Related Posts: Argumentative essay topics | Compare&Contrast essay topics

How to Set Up a Proper Description?

Slow down and think about what you want to invoke. Don’t rush into a description or you’ll likely end up with something weaker than you could have. Take your topic aside and write some sentences describing how it charms each sense – the five senses being:

Keep a thesaurus on hand to switch some of the more basic words out. If you can read your paragraph back and vividly imagine the item you’ve described, you’ve done it.

How to write a Descriptive Essay Outline

Starting your descriptive essay without a plan can lead to a messy and sprawling description.  Learning to outline your ideas is just as important as knowing how to write them.

Related Posts: How to write an Essay outline  | How to write an Essay introduction  

 Creating an Introduction for a Descriptive Writing

Once you have chosen the subject to write you need to plan the introduction for your descriptive paper. An introduction needs to include a thesis statement and three features of the thing you are describing.   The introduction should start with a thesis statement that states how you feel about your topic. This should then be supported with three qualities defining those feelings.

These thesis statements aren’t meant to be complex. All they’re meant to do is to set up your reader for your descriptions. It is important to include three reasons that you can expand on describe in great detail as they will form the paragraphs of your descriptive paper.

Planning and Writing the Body of a Descriptive Essay

Looking at your thesis statement, take those three reasons and break them down into their own paragraphs. Describe hanging out with your friends at the beach, talk about the food you’d eat, the activities you’d participate in. Detail what huskies do when they’re energetic, what shows that they get along with other dogs?

It helps to write about each way you can describe an item on a separate sheet of paper. Use that sheet as your descriptive essay outline. Take each item and write what sense you can use to describe the item in each paragraph.

For example, if you want to talk about eating a popsicle on the beach you could include how cold against your tongue for touch, that it smelt and tasted like raspberries, it was a bright red, and shaped like a rocket for sight, and the sound you made it as you bit on it, or the sound you made as it rocketed into your mouth. Expand this into a paragraph keeping the most vivid description.

Force your reader to imagine these objects in their head. Help them visualize it, pour your vision into the paper and focus on both the small and the big details. Just don’t go overboard. It’s important to have a few great descriptors rather than a ton of average ones.

When describing an object, go about it in a practical sense. Don’t just throw details on the page, talk about them in order. Describe a mountain from its peak to it’s middle all the way down to its base. You wouldn’t go from the middle to the base to the peak, would you? This way, you’re keeping your reader engaged with the topic.

Concluding a Descriptive Essay

Concluding descriptive writing is easy. All you have to show why the subject you described is important to you. All you have to do is show the reader what you implied. Show why it has meaning, and why they should care.

Descriptive Essay Example

Drafting your essay.

Where the organization comes to fruition. When writing your essay, keep the reader in your head at all times. Constantly as yourself: “Is this vivid enough?” Don’t focus much on grammar, get the content onto the paper.

Questions to Ask Yourself

Once you’ve finished writing your essay, read it back and make sure it responds positively to each of these questions:

• Are these descriptions making my writing visual? Could I make them more vivid?
• Have I used these descriptions to detail my emotions to the reader?
• Do these descriptions convey each of the five senses?
• Have I gone into enough details in each paragraph?
• Are my descriptions in an orderly fashion?

If you believe your essay fits these criteria, then you’re good to go on the content side.

Perfecting the Essay

Read it through a couple more times. Take some time away from it and then come back with a fresh mindset.  Correct any grammar issues you see, and double check that it answers all of the questions mentioned above. Once that’s done, you’ll have an essay worthy of an A+ grade.

From Our Writers: Tips on How to Write a Good Descriptive Essay

• Be sensitive. Some writers are scared to show their true selves, but the point of a descriptive essay is to talk about how an object affects your senses and emotions. Keep this in mind during all stages of the essay.
• Put effort into unique descriptions. Don’t settle for standard words, spend some time searching out alternatives to common descriptive words. It will only help the reader envision your thoughts.
• Write about something that you care about. If you choose something you don’t have much personal experience with, you can’t truly write from the heart.

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