ESSAY WRITING.

1. Understanding the Essay Type

1. ESSAY TYPES + RECOGNITION + HOW TO ANSWER

Essay Type How to Recognize How to Answer

Keywords like “argue,” Choose a clear side,
“persuade,” “take a develop a strong thesis,
Argumentati stance,” support with evidence and
ve “agree/disagree.” Usually logic, include
asks you to support a counterarguments and
position. rebuttals.
Present information in an
Keywords like “explain,”
organized, neutral way.
“inform,” “define,”
Expository Use facts, examples, and
“how/why.” No opinion
definitions. Avoid bias or
needed.
argument.
Keywords like “analyze,” Break the subject down
“examine,” “how does,” into parts. Focus on how
Analytical “why.” Usually about something works and why
literature, film, history, it's significant. Use close
etc. reading and analysis.
Keywords like “tell a Write a story with a clear
story,” “describe an structure (intro, climax,
Narrative
experience,” “recount.” resolution). Use vivid
Often first-person. details and personal voice.
Keywords like “describe,” Focus on sensory details.
“paint a picture,” “what Use figurative language.
Descriptive
does it look/feel/sound Make the reader see or
like?” feel what you describe.
Choose a basis of
comparison. Use either
Keywords like “compare,”
Compare & block or point-by-point
“contrast,” “differences
Contrast structure. Analyze not just
and similarities,” “both.”
what’s similar or different
—but why it matters.
Identify clear causes
Keywords like “reasons,” and/or effects. Use logic to
Cause and
“consequences,” “what connect them. Show how
Effect
caused,” “results.” one thing leads to
another.
COMPARISON OF ESSAY TYPES

Cause
Argume Expos Analy Narra Descri Compare/
Feature &
ntative itory tical tive ptive Contrast
Effect
✅ ✅/❌
Opinion- ✅/❌
✅ ❌ ❌ (impli ❌ (depe
based (depends)
ed) nds)
❌
Evidence
✅ ✅ ✅ (perso ❌ ✅ ✅
needed
nal)
❌
Formal
✅ ✅ ✅ (casua ❌/✅ ✅ ✅
tone
l ok)
Personal
❌ ❌ ❌ ✅ ✅ ❌ ❌
voice
Structure Mediu Mediu Mediu
Medium High High Medium
flexibility m m m

3. WHAT TO REMEMBER WHEN ANSWERING EACH ESSAY

TYPE

Argumentative

Take a clear stance.

Back every claim with strong evidence.

Address the opposing side fairly.

Be persuasive but logical.

Expository

Be clear and neutral.

Don’t include your opinion.

Organize ideas logically (step-by-step or by topic).

Use examples and definitions.

Analytical

Focus on how and why, not just what.

Support every interpretation with evidence.

Stay close to the text or material.

Avoid summary.

Narrative

Make it engaging—begin with a hook.

Include a clear conflict and resolution.

Use vivid, sensory details.

Reflect at the end (what you learned).

Descriptive

Use the five senses.

Show, don’t tell.

Use metaphors, similes, imagery.

Keep your focus on creating a mood or impression.

Compare & Contrast

Choose a meaningful comparison.

Use clear structure (block or point-by-point).

Balance both subjects fairly.

Don’t just list—analyze why the differences/similarities matter.

Cause & Effect

Identify clear links between events.

Use strong transitions (e.g., as a result, consequently).

Avoid oversimplifying.

Consider multiple causes or effects if relevant.

2. Structure

BASIC ESSAY STRUCTURE OVERVIEW

Always includes:

Introduction – Hook, background, thesis

Body Paragraphs – Main ideas + evidence/analysis

Conclusion – Summary + final thought

1. ARGUMENTATIVE ESSAY

Purpose: Convince the reader of your position

Structure:

Introduction

Hook (interesting fact/question/quote)

Background context

Thesis statement (your position)

Body Paragraphs (3–5+)

Topic sentence (main point)

Evidence (facts, quotes, examples)

Explanation/Analysis
Transition to next point

Counterargument Paragraph (optional but strong)

Present opposing view

Refute it with logic/evidence

Conclusion

Restate thesis

Briefly summarize key points

Final persuasive thought or call to action

2. EXPOSITORY ESSAY

Purpose: Explain or inform, objectively

Structure:

Introduction

Hook

Brief background or definition of the topic

Thesis (explains what you’ll inform/explain)

Body Paragraphs

Each explains one aspect/step/detail

Use examples, data, or comparisons

Clear transitions between points

Conclusion

Restate the main idea

Summarize key details

End with broader insight or reflection

3. ANALYTICAL ESSAY

Purpose: Break down and interpret something (often literature, art,

history)

Structure:

Introduction

Hook

Brief summary/context of the work or subject

Thesis (states your interpretation)

Body Paragraphs

Focus on one element per paragraph (e.g., character, symbol,

theme)

Include textual evidence (quotes, scenes, examples)

Analyze how/why it’s important and how it supports your thesis

Conclusion

Restate your main analysis

Reflect on its broader meaning or impact

4. NARRATIVE ESSAY

Purpose: Tell a story, usually personal

Structure:

Introduction

Hook

Set the scene: who, where, when

Thesis (can be implied or stated—what the story is about,

emotionally or thematically)

Body Paragraphs
Rising action → climax → resolution

Include dialogue, sensory detail, pacing

Focus on emotion and personal reflection

Conclusion

Reflect on what you learned or how the experience changed you

End with a meaningful insight or moment

5. DESCRIPTIVE ESSAY

Purpose: Paint a picture with words

Structure:

Introduction

Hook with vivid detail or emotion

Context or setting

Thesis (your central impression or emotion)

Body Paragraphs

Each focuses on one sensory detail (sight, sound, touch, etc.)

Use metaphor/simile/imagery

Stay focused on the mood or tone you want the reader to feel

Conclusion

Summarize the overall impression

Leave the reader with a lasting image or emotion

6. COMPARE AND CONTRAST ESSAY

Purpose: Analyze similarities and/or differences

Structure Option 1: Block Method

Introduction

Hook + background

Thesis stating subjects + focus

Body Paragraph 1: Subject A

Point 1

Point 2

Point 3

Body Paragraph 2: Subject B

Same points as A for comparison

Conclusion

Summarize key differences/similarities

Discuss why they matter

Structure Option 2: Point-by-Point Method

Introduction

Same as above

Body Paragraphs

Each paragraph covers one point, comparing A and B

E.g., "Both leaders were charismatic—but their tactics differed…”

Conclusion

Same as above

7. CAUSE AND EFFECT ESSAY

Purpose: Explain reasons or results of an event/situation

Structure Option 1: Cause → Effect

Introduction

Hook

Background

Thesis stating what caused what

Body Paragraphs

Causes (1–2 paragraphs)

Effects (1–2 paragraphs)

Structure Option 2: Focus on one (only cause or only effect)

Conclusion

Recap the causal relationship

Reflect on significance or consequences

Pro Tip: Questions to Ask Yourself

What’s the purpose of the essay?

What’s the tone—formal, personal, reflective?

What’s the best structure for clarity and flow?

3. Thesis Statement

This is your main argument or central claim.

It should be specific, arguable, and guide the direction of

your essay.

Usually placed at the end of the introduction.

Thesis Statements by Essay Type

 Essay Type Thesis Purpose Thesis Style & Example
"School uniforms should be
Make a strong mandatory in public schools
🥊 Argumentative claim and take a because they reduce peer
clear stance pressure, improve focus, and
foster equality."
"Photosynthesis is the process
Clearly state the by which plants convert
main topic and sunlight into energy, involving
📚 Expository
what you will three major steps: light
explain absorption, water splitting,
and carbon fixation."
Present an "In ‘Macbeth,’ Shakespeare
interpretation of uses blood imagery to reflect
🔍 Analytical
a text, issue, or the psychological deterioration
topic of the main character."
"Getting lost in a foreign city
(Optional) Set up
taught me more about
the main idea or
✍️Narrative confidence and problem-
lesson behind the
solving than any classroom
story
ever could."
Express a
"The abandoned house stood
dominant
🎨 Descriptive as a haunting reminder of lost
impression,
memories and forgotten time."
mood, or theme
"While both online and in-
Show what’s being person learning have their
⚖️
compared and the strengths, online education
Compare/Contra
focus of the offers more flexibility and
st
comparison accessibility for modern
learners."
"Social media usage among
Explain the
teens has led to increased
relationship
🔗 Cause & Effect anxiety levels due to constant
between events
comparison, cyberbullying,
(cause → effect)
and lack of sleep."

What to Remember for Every Thesis:

Be specific (avoid vague, general ideas).

Avoid just stating a fact—go for something arguable or

meaningful.

Make sure your essay supports the thesis throughout.

Usually place it at the end of your introduction.

4. Evidence & Analysis

Use quotations, statistics, examples, or references to back

up your claims.

Don’t just drop a quote—analyze it. Explain why it matters

and how it supports your point.

EVIDENCE & ANALYSIS BY ESSAY TYPE

Essay Type Type of Evidence How to Analyze It

- Explain why the
- Statistics, facts - Expert evidence supports your
🥊 opinions - Examples, claim - Connect back to
Argumentative real-world cases - Logical the thesis - Address and
reasoning refute
counterarguments
- Break complex ideas
- Definitions, factual info
into clear parts - Show
- Examples - Step-by-
📘 Expository how things work or
step explanations -
relate - Avoid personal
Charts, data
opinion
- Interpret what the
- Quotes from texts -
evidence means -
Literary/film/historical
Explore how the author
🔍 Analytical elements (symbolism,
creates meaning - Tie
tone, etc.) - Details from
every analysis to your
the subject
central thesis
- Reflect on what the
experience taught
- Personal experience -
you - Explain why the
Specific events,
✍️Narrative moment was
dialogue, emotions -
meaningful - Show
Descriptive moments
personal growth or
change
- Build a dominant
- Sensory details (sight, mood or impression -
sound, etc.) - Imagery, Use language to create
🎨 Descriptive metaphors, similes - emotion or
Descriptions of atmosphere - Focus on
objects/people/places how the reader
should feel
⚖️ - Traits of both subjects - - Analyze the
 Essay Type Type of Evidence How to Analyze It
significance of each
similarity/difference -
Examples showing
Compare/Contra Don’t just list—explain
similarities/differences -
st what it reveals about
Facts or features
the topic - Relate back
to the thesis/focus
- Clarify how one thing
leads to another -
- Real-world examples -
Explore direct vs
Data/statistics -
🔗 Cause & Effect indirect effects -
Historical or logical
Emphasize the
sequences
importance or
consequences

Key Differences: Evidence vs. Analysis

Componen
What It Does Example (Argumentative Essay)
t
Provides
"According to the CDC, teen depression
Evidence proof or
rates rose 30% from 2010 to 2020."
support
"This increase correlates with the rise of
Explains why
social media, suggesting that digital
Analysis the evidence
environments may be harming teen
matters
mental health."

Quick Tips by Essay Type

Argumentative → Every point must be backed with facts and

explained logically.

Expository → Stay neutral. Explain, don’t argue.

Analytical → Focus on interpretation, not summary.

Narrative → Your experience is the evidence. Your reflection is

the analysis.

Descriptive → The details themselves are the “evidence.” Use

them to create an effect.

Compare/Contrast → Use evidence from both sides and analyze

what the comparison reveals.
Cause/Effect → Link your evidence in a clear chain of reasoning:
this caused that.

5. Transitions & Flow

Use transition words to help the reader follow your logic.

Maintain coherence between paragraphs so the essay reads

smoothly.

Yes! Transitions and flow are crucial—they make your essay easy to
follow and help your ideas build smoothly instead of jumping
around. Every essay type uses transitions differently depending on
its purpose and structure.

Here’s a full breakdown by essay type, including common

transition phrases and tips for smooth flow.

GENERAL TYPES OF TRANSITIONS

Function Examples
Addition furthermore, in addition, also, moreover
however, on the other hand, although,
Contrast
whereas
because, therefore, as a result, thus,
Cause/Effect
consequently
Sequence/Order first, next, then, finally, meanwhile, after that
for example, for instance, such as, in
Examples
particular
Comparison similarly, likewise, just as, in the same way
Conclusion/
in conclusion, to sum up, ultimately, in short
Summary

Transitions & Flow by Essay Type

ARGUMENTATIVE
Goal: Create logical flow between claims and counterclaims.

Transitions to Use:

To introduce a point: "One key reason is...", "It’s important to note

that..."

To support a point: "For instance...", "Evidence shows that..."

To contrast: "However...", "On the other hand..."

To refute: "While some argue..., it is more accurate to..."

To conclude: "Therefore...", "This proves that..."

Flow Tip: Always link your evidence back to your thesis using
transitions that show cause and logic.

EXPOSITORY

Goal: Organize facts or steps clearly and smoothly.

Transitions to Use:

To show order: "First, second, next, finally"

To elaborate: "In addition...", "Furthermore..."

To give examples: "For example...", "Such as..."

To clarify: "In other words...", "That is to say..."

Flow Tip: Use consistent sequence transitions for steps or stages in

a process.

ANALYTICAL

Goal: Guide the reader through your interpretation.

Transitions to Use:

To shift analysis: "Another aspect to consider is...", "Similarly..."

To move between ideas: "Building on this...", "Furthermore..."

To explain meaning: "This suggests that...", "This implies..."

To contrast elements: "In contrast...", "On the other hand..."

Flow Tip: Use transitions that help connect evidence to

interpretation, not just description.

NARRATIVE

Goal: Tell a smooth, chronological story with emotional shifts.

Transitions to Use:

To show time: "Then...", "After that...", "Suddenly..."

To shift emotion or tone: "At that moment...", "Little did I know..."

To reflect: "Looking back...", "In the end..."

Flow Tip: Transitions should feel natural—like you're telling a story

out loud.

DESCRIPTIVE

Goal: Keep a smooth, sensory-rich flow from detail to detail.

Transitions to Use:

To shift focus: "To the left...", "Above the doorway...", "Beyond the
trees..."

To enhance sensory flow: "Meanwhile, the scent of...", "At the same
time..."

Flow Tip: Think spatially or sensorially—move the reader through

the scene.

COMPARE & CONTRAST

Goal: Clearly show similarities and/or differences.

Transitions to Use:
To compare: "Similarly...", "Both...", "Just like..."

To contrast: "In contrast...", "Whereas...", "Unlike..."

To emphasize difference: "On the other hand...", "While X does Y, Z

prefers..."

Flow Tip: Keep structure consistent across subjects to help readers

follow the comparison.

CAUSE & EFFECT

Goal: Show relationships between actions and outcomes.

Transitions to Use:

To show cause: "Because of...", "Due to...", "Since..."

To show effect: "Therefore...", "As a result...", "Consequently..."

To show sequence: "This led to...", "Eventually...", "Soon after..."

Flow Tip: Make sure transitions clearly reflect logical progression

—not just time.

FINAL TIPS FOR STRONG FLOW

Use topic sentences to signal new ideas.

Avoid “stacking” ideas—guide the reader one step at a time.

Reread your paragraphs—does each one connect to the next?

Use a mix of transitional phrases and natural linking

sentences.

6. Clarity and Style

Avoid wordiness and passive voice (unless it serves a

purpose).

Be precise and concise.

Tailor your tone to the assignment (formal for academic,
casual for personal essays, etc.).

CLARITY & STYLE BY ESSAY TYPE

Essay Type Clarity Goal Style Tips

🔹 Use formal tone 🔹 Avoid
Be precise, emotional language 🔹 Use
🥊 Argumentative persuasive, and strong, assertive verbs (e.g.,
logically structured "demonstrates," "proves") 🔹
Stay objective but passionate
🔹 Use straightforward
language 🔹 Avoid personal
Be clear, neutral,
📘 Expository opinions 🔹 Explain terms
and explanatory
clearly 🔹 Stick to facts and
logic
🔹 Use formal, academic
tone 🔹 Avoid plot summary 🔹
Be thoughtful,
Focus on interpretation 🔹 Use
🔍 Analytical insightful, and
precise analytical vocabulary
well-reasoned
(e.g., “symbolizes,”
“conveys,” “reveals”)
🔹 Use first person ("I") 🔹 Use
Be engaging, storytelling techniques
vivid, and (dialogue, pacing,
✍️Narrative
emotionally description) 🔹 Vary sentence
connected length for rhythm 🔹 Reflect
honestly and meaningfully
🔹 Use vivid adjectives and
Be sensory-rich figurative language 🔹 Focus
🎨 Descriptive and focused on on showing, not telling 🔹
impression Maintain a consistent mood 🔹
Appeal to the five senses
🔹 Use parallel structure 🔹
Avoid bias (unless
⚖️ Be balanced and
argumentative) 🔹 Use
Compare/Contra logically
consistent phrasing for each
st organized
subject 🔹 Be fair, focused,
and analytical
🔗 Cause & Effect Be logically 🔹 Use clear cause/effect
ordered and language 🔹 Avoid
connection-driven overcomplicating 🔹 Use
transitions to show logical
flow 🔹 Clarify complex chains
 Essay Type Clarity Goal Style Tips
of events clearly

EXTRA STYLE GUIDELINES FOR ALL ESSAYS

Element What to Aim For

Sentence Use a mix of short and complex sentences for
Structure rhythm and clarity
Be precise and specific; avoid vague terms like
Word Choice
“things,” “stuff,” etc.
Tone Match tone to the essay type (formal, personal,
Consistency creative)
Stay active: “The author argues…” vs. passive: “It is
Voice
argued…”
Slang, clichés, contractions (unless in narrative),
Avoid
run-on sentences

Quick Match-Up

Essay Type Tone Voice Key Style Tip

Formal, Be clear and logical,
Argumentative Active
assertive not emotional
Neutral, Stick to facts; explain
Expository Objective
informative clearly
Thoughtful, Dive deep into
Analytical Analytical
academic meaning, not just facts
Personal, First- Show emotion and
Narrative
reflective person personal growth
Poetic, Use vivid imagery and
Descriptive Creative
immersive sensory detail
Compare/ Balanced, Keep format consistent
Structured
Contrast organized between subjects
Emphasize the
Logical,
Cause/Effect Clear connection, not just the
explanatory
facts
7. Revision & Editing

Perfect—Revision and Editing is where your essay goes from okay

to excellent. It’s not just about fixing typos—it’s about
strengthening ideas, clarifying points, and polishing your
voice. Each essay type has different priorities during revision, so
let’s break it down.

REVISION vs. EDITING: Know the Difference

Stage What It Focuses On Examples

Revisio Big-picture improvements: Clarifying thesis, reorganizing
n content, structure, logic paragraphs, expanding ideas
Small fixes: grammar, Fixing fragments, removing
Editing punctuation, spelling, repetition, tightening
clarity sentences

REVISION & EDITING by ESSAY TYPE

ARGUMENTATIVE

Revise for:

Clear, strong thesis statement

Logical order of arguments

Well-integrated counterarguments

Strong, persuasive evidence

Edit for:

Formal tone (avoid emotional or biased language)

Clear transitions between arguments

Concise and powerful sentence structure

Ask yourself: Does every paragraph support my argument? Have I

considered the opposing side?
EXPOSITORY

Revise for:

Clear explanations of ideas

Logical structure (step-by-step if needed)

Accurate facts and definitions

Edit for:

Neutral, objective tone

Smooth transitions between sections

Eliminate unnecessary complexity

Ask yourself: Is everything clearly explained as if to someone new

to the topic?

ANALYTICAL

Revise for:

Strong, interpretive thesis

Clear analysis (not summary!)

Textual evidence that supports interpretation

Edit for:

Academic tone and vocabulary

Clarity in analysis—avoid vague comments like “this is important”

Consistent verb tense (especially when writing about literature)

Ask yourself: Am I explaining what the evidence means and how it

supports my thesis?

NARRATIVE

Revise for:
Clear story arc (beginning, middle, end)

A central theme or message

Interesting, relevant details and reflection

Edit for:

Natural voice and pacing

Smooth transitions between scenes or memories

Correct verb tense and first-person consistency

Ask yourself: Does the story connect emotionally and have a

point?

DESCRIPTIVE

Revise for:

Vivid imagery and sensory details

Strong central impression or mood

Consistent focus (don’t wander off-topic)

Edit for:

Figurative language that works (no forced metaphors)

Word choice: are descriptions fresh, not cliché?

Sentence variety for rhythm and effect

Ask yourself: Can the reader truly “see, hear, feel” what I’m
describing?

COMPARE & CONTRAST

Revise for:

Clear comparison structure (block or point-by-point)

Strong, focused basis of comparison

Balanced treatment of both subjects

Edit for:

Repetition—avoid rephrasing the same point

Consistent sentence structures for parallel ideas

Use of comparison transitions

Ask yourself: Am I truly comparing, or just describing two things

separately?

CAUSE & EFFECT

Revise for:

Clear cause-effect relationships

Logical sequence of events or ideas

No logical fallacies (don’t confuse correlation with causation!)

Edit for:

Clarity of relationships (use “because,” “leads to,” etc.)

Consistent time references

Smooth flow from one effect to the next

Ask yourself: Have I shown how one event led to another, and why
that matters?

FINAL REVISION CHECKLIST (for all essays)

Is the thesis statement clear and strong?

Do the body paragraphs support the thesis?
Is there a logical order and flow to ideas?
Are transitions smooth between paragraphs?
Is the tone appropriate to the essay type?
Have I eliminated repetition and fluff?
Are grammar, spelling, and punctuation correct?

Would you like a revision checklist doc or for me to review a sample

paragraph from one of your essays? I'm happy to help refine it with
you.

Perfect—Revision and Editing is where your essay goes from okay

to excellent. It’s not just about fixing typos—it’s about
strengthening ideas, clarifying points, and polishing your
voice. Each essay type has different priorities during revision, so
let’s break it down.

REVISION vs. EDITING: Know the Difference

Stage What It Focuses On Examples

Revisio Big-picture improvements: Clarifying thesis, reorganizing
n content, structure, logic paragraphs, expanding ideas
Small fixes: grammar, Fixing fragments, removing
Editing punctuation, spelling, repetition, tightening
clarity sentences

REVISION & EDITING by ESSAY TYPE

ARGUMENTATIVE

Revise for:

Clear, strong thesis statement

Logical order of arguments

Well-integrated counterarguments

Strong, persuasive evidence

Edit for:

Formal tone (avoid emotional or biased language)

Clear transitions between arguments

Concise and powerful sentence structure

Ask yourself: Does every paragraph support my argument? Have I

considered the opposing side?

EXPOSITORY

Revise for:

Clear explanations of ideas

Logical structure (step-by-step if needed)

Accurate facts and definitions

Edit for:

Neutral, objective tone

Smooth transitions between sections

Eliminate unnecessary complexity

Ask yourself: Is everything clearly explained as if to someone new

to the topic?

ANALYTICAL

Revise for:

Strong, interpretive thesis

Clear analysis (not summary!)

Textual evidence that supports interpretation

Edit for:

Academic tone and vocabulary

Clarity in analysis—avoid vague comments like “this is important”

Consistent verb tense (especially when writing about literature)

Ask yourself: Am I explaining what the evidence means and how it
supports my thesis?

NARRATIVE

Revise for:

Clear story arc (beginning, middle, end)

A central theme or message

Interesting, relevant details and reflection

Edit for:

Natural voice and pacing

Smooth transitions between scenes or memories

Correct verb tense and first-person consistency

Ask yourself: Does the story connect emotionally and have a

point?

DESCRIPTIVE

Revise for:

Vivid imagery and sensory details

Strong central impression or mood

Consistent focus (don’t wander off-topic)

Edit for:

Figurative language that works (no forced metaphors)

Word choice: are descriptions fresh, not cliché?

Sentence variety for rhythm and effect

Ask yourself: Can the reader truly “see, hear, feel” what I’m
describing?
COMPARE & CONTRAST

Revise for:

Clear comparison structure (block or point-by-point)

Strong, focused basis of comparison

Balanced treatment of both subjects

Edit for:

Repetition—avoid rephrasing the same point

Consistent sentence structures for parallel ideas

Use of comparison transitions

Ask yourself: Am I truly comparing, or just describing two things

separately?

CAUSE & EFFECT

Revise for:

Clear cause-effect relationships

Logical sequence of events or ideas

No logical fallacies (don’t confuse correlation with causation!)

Edit for:

Clarity of relationships (use “because,” “leads to,” etc.)

Consistent time references

Smooth flow from one effect to the next

Ask yourself: Have I shown how one event led to another, and why
that matters?

FINAL REVISION CHECKLIST (for all essays)

Is the thesis statement clear and strong?
Do the body paragraphs support the thesis?
Is there a logical order and flow to ideas?
Are transitions smooth between paragraphs?

Is the tone appropriate to the essay type?

Have I eliminated repetition and fluff?
Are grammar, spelling, and punctuation correct?

8. Citation & Academic Integrity

CITATION & ACADEMIC INTEGRITY BY ESSAY TYPE

When to Common Citation

Essay Type Integrity Tips
Cite Sources Style
When
Always cite
using Academic
even when
facts, articles, APA / MLA /
🥊 paraphrasing;
stats, credible Chicago
Argumentati avoid cherry-
expert news, (depends on
ve picking only
opinions, journals, field)
favorable
countercla books
evidence
ims
When
presenting Encyclopedi Stay neutral—
data, as, cite even simple
📘 Expository studies, or textbooks, APA / MLA facts if not
outside articles, common
informatio reports knowledge
n
Quote
When
Novels, MLA accurately,
quoting or
poems, (literature/ar analyze
referring
🔍 Analytical films, ts), APA thoroughly—
to texts,
scholarly (non- avoid relying
films, art,
criticism literary) too much on
etc.
summary
✍️Narrative Rarely Sometimes Usually MLA Don’t fabricate
needed autobiograp or APA (if experiences—
unless hies or needed) honest
referencin relevant reflection is part
g outside research of integrity
ideas or
 When to Common Citation
Essay Type Integrity Tips
Cite Sources Style
texts
Rarely
needed Avoid copying
unless Art books, phrases or
referencin design MLA or APA metaphors—use
🎨 Descriptive
g artistic theories if necessary your own
influences (rarely used) descriptive
or voice
concepts
Make sure both
When sides are
Literary
comparing MLA (lit), accurately
⚖️ works,
sources, APA represented;
Compare/Con studies,
texts, or (science/hist avoid bias
trast historical
factual ory) through
data
info selective
quoting
When
using Studies, Don’t make
research reports, unfounded
🔗 Cause &
to support data, APA or MLA claims—cite
Effect
causal historical data that shows
relationshi events real connections
ps

ACADEMIC INTEGRITY RULES (applies to ALL essays)

NEVER:

Copy-paste from a source without citation

Paraphrase too closely to the original wording

Use facts or studies without giving credit

Invent sources or evidence

Reuse your own work from another assignment without permission

ALWAYS:

Quote and paraphrase responsibly

Give credit with in-text citations + works cited/reference page

Follow the assigned style guide (APA, MLA, Chicago, etc.)

Ask your instructor if unsure whether to cite

QUICK CITATION REMINDERS

Element MLA Example APA Example

In-text
(Smith 45) (Smith, 2022, p. 45)
citation
Book Smith, John. The Art of Smith, J. (2022). The art of
citation Thinking. Penguin, 2022. thinking. Penguin.
Jones, Lisa. “Mental Health Jones, L. (2020). Mental
Article Trends.” Journal of Psychology, health trends. Journal of
citation vol. 45, no. 2, 2020, pp. 100– Psychology, 45(2), 100–
115. 115.

FINAL TIP:

If you’re ever in doubt, cite it. Professors would rather see an over-
cited paper than one that risks plagiarism. And using citations well
shows you're engaging thoughtfully with your sources—not just
copying them.

9. Audience Awareness

AUDIENCE AWARENESS BY ESSAY TYPE

Writer’s How to Adjust

Essay Type Typical Audience
Goal for Audience
Use logic and
Convince
strong
them to
Skeptical readers, evidence—avoid
🥊 accept your
educated peers, emotion or bias;
Argumentative position or
instructors anticipate
rethink
counterargume
theirs
nts
Define unfamiliar
Teach or
Curious readers, terms; avoid
explain
📘 Expository learners, general jargon; keep
clearly and
audience tone clear and
neutrally
informative
🔍 Analytical Academic readers, Offer insight, Assume reader
instructors, interpretatio knows the text—
 Writer’s How to Adjust
Essay Type Typical Audience
Goal for Audience
but not your
specific
n, and deep
researchers analysis; be
thinking
precise and
thoughtful
Connect
Share a emotionally,
Classmates, personal use relatable
✍️Narrative instructors, general story with moments; tone
audience meaning or can be more
reflection personal or
informal
Use rich
imagery,
Create a assume they
Readers looking to
vivid, know nothing
🎨 Descriptive visualize/feel a
sensory about the
scene
experience setting; help
them see and
feel it
Help them Be balanced
understand and clear;
Readers unfamiliar
⚖️ two or explain
with
Compare/Contr more unfamiliar
similarities/differenc
ast things subjects; use
es
more consistent
clearly structure
Show Make causal
Readers wanting
connection links clear;
🔗 Cause & clarity about
s and assume reader
Effect why/how something
consequenc needs proof, not
happened
es speculation

HOW TO SHOW AUDIENCE AWARENESS

Element Strategy
Tone Match formality to audience—academic ≠ casual
Avoid slang for formal essays; define complex
Word Choice
terms for non-experts
Examples/ Use examples the audience will relate to or
Evidence understand
Don’t assume prior knowledge unless writing for a
Background Info
specialist audience
Argumentative essays use logic more than
Appeals
emotion for skeptical audiences
 Element Strategy
Academic audiences value clarity, structure, and
Style
sophistication

EXAMPLES

In an argumentative essay about climate change, you'd back up

claims with scientific data, not personal opinion, because your
audience expects credible, factual evidence.

In a narrative essay about your first time on stage, you’d include

emotional reflection and sensory details because your audience is
likely reading for connection, not argument.

In an analytical essay on Shakespeare, you assume the reader

knows the play, but they need to see your unique
interpretation.

Pro Tip: Always ask yourself...

❓ “What does my reader know, think, or care about this

topic?”

❓ “What do I want them to understand or feel by the end?”