Essay Types
Argumentative Essay
This is the type of essay that requires you to agree or disagree with an issue, using reasons to
support your opinion. Your goal is to convince readers that your opinion is convincing, by taking a
stance on an issue, supporting your position with solid reasons, and supporting your reasons with
solid evidence.
Organization of an argumentative essay
1. Introductory paragraph
- Outline the topic of the essay
- Provide necessary background information to help readers understand the argument
- State your thesis clearly
- (optional) A quote, striking statistics, or a compelling motive to create a strong first
impression
2. Body paragraphs: Include 2 - 3 paragraphs to explain the reason why you support the thesis. Each
body paragraph should be limited to one general idea supported by evidence and contain a topic
sentence that clearly and concisely explains why the readers should agree with your position.
Argument FOR your stance + evidence
- Present your main argument supporting your stance.
- Provide evidence such as examples, research, statistics, or studies to support your claim.
- Point → Explanation → Examples
Argument AGAINST your stance + evidence
- Acknowledge and present the opposing viewpoint.
- Offer a rebuttal explaining why you disagree or disproving the opposing viewpoint.
- Use facts, examples, or reasoning to weaken the opposing argument and support your
stance.
3. Conclusion: Restate your thesis and summarize all the arguments presented in your body
paragraphs. Do NOT introduce new facts or more arguments.
Example
The Internet has had a detrimental effect on society. To what extent do you agree or disagree?
1. Introduction
- Topic: Harms of the Internet on society.
- Background information:
- Thesis statement:
2. Body Paragraph
For Against
point + evidences point + evidences
3. Conclusion
- Summary of thesis and main points
- Call to action (optional)
Discursive Essay
In a discursive essay, it’s important to present a balanced view, showing both sides of the argument.
Structure of a discursive essay
1. Introduction
- Background information related to the topic, and explanation of the issue.
- Thesis statement (stating to viewpoints and the writer’s opinion)
2. Body
Viewpoint 1
- State one side’s viewpoint and a brief summary of the arguments
- Discuss the arguments (reasons, explanation, examples, evidence, etc.)
Do the same for the other side’s viewpoint
3. Conclusion
- A summary of two viewpoints and the writer’s point of view
- Final thoughts
Example
Computers are being used more and more in education. Some people say that this is a positive
trend, while others argue that it is leading to negative consequences. Discuss both views and give
your opinion.
Cause/Effect Essay
It is as the name suggests.
Organization of a cause/effect essay
1. Introductory paragraph
- Introduce the topic and make clear why it is important
- Thesis: name the causes and effects
- Transition into the analysis of causes and effects
2. Body paragraphs: Examine or suggest any possible causes or effects, and provide information,
date, or interpretation as support.
3. Concluding Paragraph: Summarize the causes or effects discussed, and then state the
consequences. You may also provide a call to action.
Problem/Solution Essay
A problem/solution essay identifies and examines a specific problem, then proposes one or more
potential solutions
Organization of problem/solution essay
1. Introductory paragraph: Introduce and briefly outline the problem while suggesting or
proposing a solution.
2. Body paragraphs
- First half: Explore the nature and scope of the problem, providing supporting evidence
such as statistics, quote, and other data.
- Transitional body paragraph: provide a smooth transition from the problem to the
proposed solution.
- Second half: Explain how the proposed solution addresses the problem, supported by
examples, facts, and statistics that demonstrate why the solution may be effective.
3. Concluding paragraph
Example
More and more people are migrating to cities in search of a better life, but city life can be extremely
difficult. Explain some of the difficulties of living in a city. How can governments make urban life
better for everyone?
Direct Question Essay
This is a type of essay that asks one or more specific questions and expects you to answer those
questions directly, logically, and with clear evidence. Common types of questions include:
- Explanatory questions
- Opinion-based questions
- Comparative questions
- Problem-solution questions
Detailed steps to approaching a direct question essay
Step 1. Understand the task
Before you begin writing, it is crucial to fully understand the essay prompt. Ask yourself:
- What is the topic about?
- What is the topic NOT about?
- How should you respond to the topic?
Step 2. Decide your position
In this type of essay, your position is your answer to the prompt’s question
Step 3. Extend your ideas
You need to explain your position, which involves
- explaining your reasoning: Dive deeper to the “why” behind your views.
- providing examples: Use specific examples to illustrate your points, making your argument
concrete and relatable.
Step 4. Structure your essay accordingly
Introduction
- Paraphrase the question to show understanding
- State your thesis in accordance with the prompt
Body paragraphs
- Dedicate one paragraph to each main point related to the question
- Use clear topic sentences
- Provide specific examples or evidence to support your points
Conclusion
- Summarize your key points
- Reaffirm your position clearly, but do NOT introduce new ideas.
Example
In many countries today, crime novels and TV crime dramas are becoming more and more popular.
Why do you think these books and TV shows are popular? What is your opinion of crime fiction
and TV crime dramas?