Essay is a written piece that contains the writer’s thoughts about a particular issue. The document may differ depending on the issue being discussed or the guidelines and requirements that the writer must follow. Although the written output may be subjective, the writer also includes relevant and objective data to support his/her point of view.Expository, narrative, criticisms, manifestos, and arguments are some of the popular types that writers may come up with. They are commonly in prose but there are popular ones which are in verse but are considered essays as well. Further, most of them are quite brief and short, but again there are certain types which can be quite ample. There are a number of samples that can be found in libraries and through the internet which writers may familiarize themselves with to give them an idea of how to go about writing an effective output.
Basically, the written piece is a collection of short paragraphs and may, depending on the type, provide an analysis of a thought or concept; discuss one’s beliefs about an issue; focus on the author’s stand about the topic at hand. It may also be a collection of the author’s observations, personal reflections or founded criticisms as well.
A distinct characteristic of the type of paper being discussed is that it is a piece of non-fiction. Thus, rather than talking about fictional characters or made up details, it focuses on real life characters and concepts that can be observed in daily life. They are comprised of words and sentences that reveal the author’s thoughts that are supported by factual evidence that can be found in previously published materials or internet sites.
Another distinct characteristic is that they must have a clearly defined introduction which contains the central idea that the paper develops throughout the document. It also briefly explains what the reader can expect as he reads through the paper. A sound body also comprises the written assay, which basically contains the supporting information that buttresses the writer’s position. The information can be gathered through research and evaluative reading. Finally, an appropriate ending that summarizes the paper and emphasizes the writer’s insights must cap off the written work.
These salient parts would then dictate that the said written outputs must contain three or more paragraphs. Although those containing one or two paragraphs may be possible, it may also be quite awkward and inept. However, writers must remember that the document’s length must not be a chief consideration. Rather, the contents are more important than the length itself. Ideally, the final output must be long enough to sufficiently present the argument, adequately develop and describe the topic, and come up with an ample conclusion.
Essay must be cohesive and well organized. It must be carefully thought of and must be highly structured to avoid unneeded words or information to be included in the final piece. Writers must only present relevant information to support their thoughts and ideas. They must also exercise utmost diligence in editing and proofreading their work to make sure that commonly overlooked mistakes is organization, grammar and composition can be corrected.
