TYPES OF ESSAY & PARAGRAPH WRITING

(TYPES AND STRUCTURE OF WRITING)

There are four main types of essays: 

• Argumentative, 
• Expository, 
• Narrative, and
• Descriptive essays.

Argumentative and expository essays are focused on conveying information and making clear points, while narrative and descriptive essays are about exercising creativity and writing in an interesting way. Argumentative essays are the most common type of essay at the university level. 

In addition to the four main types of essays, there are also different structures or formats that essays can follow. For example, essays can be structured as a comparative analysis or a cause and effect essay. However, there is no set formula for these types of essays, and they can vary depending on the assignment and the instructor's requirements. 

Regardless of the type or structure of the essay, all essays should have a clear and coherent structure that presents ideas in a logical order. Essays should have an introduction that introduces the topic and thesis statement, body paragraphs that provide evidence and support for the thesis, and a conclusion that summarizes the main points and restates the thesis in a new way. Successful essay writing also involves attention to detail, such as using paragraph openers that lead off with "time" words or "listing" words to signal the structure of the essay. 

by UKBA UNP