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How to Write a Descriptive Essay

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• 26th February 2020

A descriptive essay, as the name may suggest, is an essay in which you describe something. The idea is to create a vivid picture of something – a person, object, place or experience – for your reader.

But how do you write a descriptive essay? We have a few helpful tips to share.

1. Brainstorming and Organizing Your Ideas

Your first step should be to brainstorm ideas . Think about the qualities of what you’re describing. As well as physical qualities, make notes about any thoughts, memories, and emotions you associate with your subject matter.

This brainstorming will give you the raw material for your descriptive essay. The next step is to create an essay outline. Typically, this will include:

• An Introduction – An outline of what you will describe and the “thesis” for your essay (i.e., a key theme that will run through your essay and guide your description). For instance, if writing about an inspirational teacher, you could mention the importance of education in the introduction.
• Main Body – A series of paragraphs in which you describe your subject. Each paragraph should cover a single main point, then lead neatly on to the next one, adding to the overall picture you’re creating for the reader.
• Conclusion – A final paragraph where you summarize your overall essay. This is also a good place to reaffirm your essay thesis, emphasizing how your description reflects this.

Before you start writing, then, make some notes about what each paragraph in your essay will include. This will then guide the drafting process, making sure your essay has a clear structure.

2. Use Vivid, Sensory Language

A descriptive essay should paint a picture for your reader. And this means you need to use vivid, exciting language rather than a formal, academic tone. Ideas for making your essay more linguistically engaging include:

• Using sensory language to evoke how something looked, smelled, etc.
• Writing in the present tense to make the situation feel immediate.
• Describing feelings and thoughts elicited by the subject of your essay.
• Looking for dynamic adjectives and adverbs to use (e.g., you could say something made you “happy,” but “elated” or “delighted” may be stronger).
• Using metaphors, similes, and other literary techniques .

Keep your introduction in mind while writing. The language you use should serve the “thesis” you set out there, drawing the reader’s attention to specific aspects of the thing you’re describing.

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3. Show, Don’t Tell

“Show, don’t tell” refers to a technique used by authors to make their writing more engaging. Essentially, all this means is using action, description, and dialogue to paint a picture for the reader rather than simply stating something in plain language. We can see the difference below:

Telling: Miss Hardy was an engaging speaker.

Showing: When Miss Hardy spoke, everyone listened. Her voice bubbled with enthusiasm, bringing even the most mundane subjects to life.

In the first sentence, we simply tell the reader that Miss Hardy was an engaging speaker. But in the second, we try to help the reader picture being in her class, listening to her speak. And by engaging the reader’s imagination like this, we can make our description more memorable.

4. Editing and Proofreading Your Descriptive Essay

Once you have a first draft, you’ll be ready to start editing. The idea here is to go back over your essay – at least once, but possibly multiple times – to look for ways you could improve it. This drafting process may involve:

• Making sure your writing is clear, well structured, and impactful.
• Rewriting passages that feel clichéd or that could be stronger.
• Reading your essay out loud to see how well it flows.
• Ensuring that the central theme of your essay is present throughout.

And when you’ve finished redrafting, go through the essay one more time to remove any typos that remain. Alternatively, you can submit your descriptive essay for proofreading . With the expert eye of a professional editor on your side, you can be confident your writing is the best it can be.

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Descriptive Essay: Your Guide to Writing an Effective One

A descriptive essay is one of the four main types of essays, alongside narrative, argumentative, and expository essays. Among these, descriptive essays can be particularly challenging because they demand a keen eye for detail and an appreciation for aesthetics. By vividly describing scenes and details, you engage your reader’s senses, making your essay memorable and engaging. In this guide, our essay writers will break down the writing process for you, offering step-by-step instructions, practical examples, and clear definitions to help you excel in your next assignment.

What is a Descriptive Essay?

Descriptive writing aims to vividly portray something through essays, helping readers visualize and feel the scene or object being described. Such essays draw on detailed descriptions to create a clear and impactful image that not only presents the subject but also evokes emotions and memories.

There are three main techniques used in descriptive writing: naming, detailing, and comparing .

Naming identifies the subject and its characteristics, answering questions like 'What is it?' and 'What features does it have?'

Detailing elaborates on these features, providing answers to detailed questions such as 'How many are there?' and 'What is its value?' Techniques like synesthesia and comparisons enhance these descriptions.

Comparing uses similes and metaphors to make descriptions more vivid, linking the subject to familiar concepts.

What Is the Purpose of a Descriptive Essay?

The purpose of a descriptive essay is multifaceted. Primarily, it allows writers to give readers a vivid impression of a person, place, or event, making the subject come alive through words. By using detailed descriptions, writers can help readers visualize settings and characters as if they were seeing them firsthand.

Additionally, descriptive essays can serve to clarify abstract ideas. By describing these concepts with concrete images and examples, writers make complex ideas easier to understand and more relatable to the reader.

Descriptive essays also aim to make information more memorable. When details are vivid, they are more likely to stick in the reader's mind, enhancing recall and engagement with the text.

Lastly, it can bolster an argument by providing concrete, detailed evidence that supports a point of view. This helps persuade the reader by making the argument more tangible and credible.

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Descriptive Essay Topics

When you're tasked with writing a descriptive essay, you'll usually get a prompt that asks you to describe something. These descriptive essay prompts allow you to explore different settings, time periods, and imaginative scenarios in your essays. 

Personal Prompts:

• Describe a favorite childhood memory.
• Describe a treasured family heirloom.

Imaginative Prompts:

• Describe a day in the life of a pirate.
• Describe what it would be like to explore an underwater city.

Historical Prompts:

• Describe the atmosphere of a bustling ancient marketplace.
• Describe the experience of witnessing a significant moment in history, like the moon landing or the fall of the Berlin Wall.

Nature Prompts:

• Describe the sights and sounds of a peaceful forest at dawn.
• Describe the feeling of standing at the edge of a majestic waterfall.

Everyday Prompts:

• Describe the chaos of a busy morning commute in a big city.
• Describe the tranquility of a sunset picnic in the countryside.

If you need topic ideas for other essay genres, consult our guide on narrative essay topics .

How to Write a Descriptive Essay in 8 Steps

Now that you understand the essence and purpose of this type of essay let's explore some fundamental yet valuable tips for writing a descriptive essay. 

Step 1: Select Your Topic

The first step in creating a captivating descriptive essay is choosing the right topic. Start by paying close attention to your surroundings. 

• Consider describing a person you know well in your life, like a sibling, a close friend, or a teacher who has made a significant impact on you.
• Alternatively, you could focus on a specific place or object that holds sentimental value to you, such as a favorite vacation spot, a cherished childhood toy, or a meaningful piece of jewelry.
• Another option is to explore a strong emotion that you have experienced, like excitement, nostalgia, or determination. 

Avoid using overly technical or jargon-filled language in your topic selection. Instead, aim for simplicity and clarity to ensure that your chosen topic resonates with your audience and allows you to convey your unique perspective effectively.

Step 2: Gather Details

Once you've selected your topic for your descriptive essay, the next step is to gather details that will bring your chosen subject to life on the page. Start by closely observing your subject, whether it's a person, place, object, or emotion. Pay attention to its appearance, characteristics, and any unique features that stand out to you.

For example, if you've chosen to describe your childhood home, take note of its architectural style, color scheme, and any distinctive elements like a front porch or a cozy fireplace. Recall memories associated with the home, such as family gatherings or quiet moments spent reading in your favorite spot.

If your topic is a person, like a close friend or family member, observe their physical appearance, mannerisms, and personality traits. Consider the ways in which they interact with others and the impact they have on your life.

Step 3: Draft an Outline

When structuring your essay, you can organize your paragraphs from top to bottom or near to far, chronologically, or from general to specific. Here's a simple descriptive essay outline from our custom writers to guide you: 

Step 4: Develop a Thesis Statement

When developing your thesis statement, consider the main points or aspects of your subject that you want to highlight in your essay. Think about the emotions or impressions you want to evoke in the reader and tailor your thesis statement accordingly.

For example, if you're writing about your favorite childhood memory, your thesis statement could be: 'My summers spent at my grandparents' farm were filled with laughter, adventure, and a sense of belonging.'

Or, if you're describing a beautiful sunset, your thesis statement might be: 'The breathtaking colors and serene atmosphere of the sunset over the ocean evoke a sense of peace and wonder.'

Step 5: Craft the Introduction

Start your descriptive essay introduction by hooking the reader with an engaging opening sentence or anecdote related to your topic. This could be a vivid description, a thought-provoking question, or a surprising fact. For example:

• Growing up on my grandparents' farm, each summer brought new adventures and unforgettable memories that still warm my heart to this day.

After hooking the reader, provide some background information or context for your topic. This could include brief details about the setting, time period, or significance of your subject. For instance:

• Nestled in the rolling hills of the countryside, my grandparents' farm was a sanctuary of simple pleasures and cherished traditions.

Finally, end your introduction with your thesis statement, clearly stating the main point of your essay. This ties everything together and gives the reader a roadmap for what to expect in the rest of your essay. 

Step 6: Compose the Body Paragraphs

Once you've crafted your introduction, it's time to compose the body paragraphs, where you delve into the details and descriptions that bring your topic to life.

Each body paragraph should focus on a specific aspect or detail of your topic, expanding upon the ideas presented in your thesis statement. Use vivid language, sensory details, and descriptive devices to paint a clear picture for the reader.

For example, if you're writing about summers spent at your grandparents' farm, you could dedicate one body paragraph to describing the sights and sounds of the farm:

• The rolling fields stretched out before me, golden waves of wheat swaying gently in the breeze. The air was filled with the sweet scent of wildflowers, mingling with the earthy aroma of freshly turned soil.

In another body paragraph, you might explore the adventures and activities that filled your days:

• From sunrise to sunset, there was never a dull moment on the farm. Whether we were exploring the woods, splashing in the creek, or helping with chores, each day brought new excitement and adventure.

Continue with additional body paragraphs, each focusing on a different aspect of your topic and providing rich, detailed descriptions. Be sure to vary your language and sentence structure to keep the reader engaged and interested.

Step 7: Conclude the Essay

The conclusion should bring together all the ideas presented in your essay. Avoid introducing any new information in the conclusion. Instead, focus on evaluating your thoughts and reflections on the topic. End with a strong final sentence that leaves a lasting impression on the reader.

For example, if you were writing about summers spent at your grandparents' farm, your conclusion might reflect on the significance of those memories:

• 'As I reminisce about the summers spent amid the rustic charm of my grandparents' farm, I am filled with a profound sense of gratitude for the simple pleasures and cherished moments that shaped my childhood. The laughter echoing through the fields, the adventures awaiting around every corner, and the sense of belonging that enveloped me there will forever hold a special place in my heart.'

Step 8: Refine Your Essay

Once you've finished writing your essay, it's time to refine it for clarity and impact. Start by reading your essay aloud to yourself. Listen for any sentences that sound awkward or unclear. Mark these sentences so you can revise them later.

You can also read your essay aloud to others and ask for their feedback. Invite friends, family members, teachers, or mentors to listen to your essay and share their thoughts. Ask them if there are any parts that are difficult to understand or if they have trouble picturing the subject you're describing.

Be receptive to constructive criticism and feedback. Use it as an opportunity to improve your essay and make it stronger. And if it sounds too demanding right now, you can buy cheap essay to sidestep the hassle and reclaim some much-needed free time.

Descriptive Essay Format

The standard format for a descriptive essay typically includes five paragraphs: an introduction, three body paragraphs, and a conclusion. However, you can also organize your essay into sections, allowing for flexibility in the length of the body paragraphs.

Introductory Paragraph: This paragraph sets the scene by describing where, when, and to whom the experience occurred. It should include descriptive words to capture the reader's attention.

First Body Paragraph: Here, the writer provides details that allow the reader to visualize the situation. Descriptive language is key in painting a clear picture for the reader.

Second Body Paragraph: More details are provided, with a focus on using descriptive adjectives. Figurative language, such as metaphor (e.g., describing the city as a 'jungle of concrete'), can enhance the imagery.

Third Body Paragraph: The writer continues to appeal to the reader's senses with visually descriptive words. Figurative language, like personification (e.g., describing the wind as a playful dancer), adds depth to the description.

Conclusion: The conclusion alludes to another sense, such as touch or sound, and uses strong words to signify closure. It ends with a powerful concluding sentence to leave a lasting impression on the reader.

Descriptive Essay Examples

In this section, you'll discover essay examples that demonstrate how to captivate your readers' attention effectively. After exploring these examples, you might find yourself tempted to ask, 'Can someone do my homework for me?' - and that's completely understandable! We're here to help you become more confident and articulate communicators through your writing!

3 Additional Tips for Writing

While writing a descriptive essay, your goal is to make your subject come alive for the reader. Unlike more formal essays, you have the freedom to be creative with your descriptions, using figurative language, sensory details, and precise word choices to make your writing memorable.

Use Figurative Language: Figurative language, like metaphors and similes, adds flair to your descriptions. Instead of sticking to literal descriptions, use comparisons to create unique and memorable imagery. 

• For instance, describing a city as a bustling beehive of activity ' or a forest as ' a blanket of whispers ' adds an unexpected twist that captures the reader's attention.

Engage Your Senses: In a descriptive essay, don't just focus on what something looks like; appeal to all the senses. Describe how things smell, sound, feel, and even taste, if applicable. This adds depth and richness to your descriptions, making them more immersive. 

• For example, instead of just describing a beach visually, include sensory details like feeling the warm sand between your toes , hearing the rhythmic crash of waves , and t asting the salty sea breeze.

Choose Your Words Carefully: Use effective adjectives, verbs, and nouns to convey your impressions vividly. Avoid clichés and opt for original, precise language that reflects your unique perspective. Take the time to review your sentences and consider if there are better word choices that could enhance your description.

In Wrapping Up

To sum it up, descriptive essays are all about encouraging students like you to explore your surroundings and unleash your creativity by describing scenes in detail with words. When you carefully select and organize these descriptive details, it not only enhances your writing but also sharpens your critical thinking skills. Plus, diving into this expressive writing style allows you to appreciate the beauty of language and feel more connected to written communication. And remember, if you ever need a little boost in your writing journey, our descriptive essay writing service is here to help!

Need To Describe Something But DON'T KNOW HOW?

Let one of our essay writers do it for you, all you have to do is send us your paper requirements and wait for your original paper to be written.

How To Write A Descriptive Essay?

What is a descriptive essay, what is the purpose of a descriptive essay.

• New samples
• New information on each of the rest sections 

Axelrod, R. B. and Cooper, R. C. (2008). The st martin’s guide to writing. (English Edition). New York: Bedford/St Martins

Okono, U. M. (2021). Descriptive essay: An assessment of performance by undergraduates of AkwaIbom State University. Erudite Journal of Linguistics and Languages . https://www.globalacademicstar.com/download/article/descriptive-essay-an-assessment-of-performance-by-undergraduates-of-akwa-ibom-state-university.pdf

Okono. U. M. (2020). “Qualities of a good essay: An assessment of the writings of Nigerian undergraduates.” International Journal on integrated Education. 3: vi.

https://irsc-asc.weebly.com/uploads/3/1/8/1/31813909/e7__descriptive_essay_guidelines.pdf

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How to Write a Strong Descriptive Essay

Last Updated: May 14, 2024 Fact Checked

Brainstorming Ideas for the Essay

Writing the essay, polishing the essay, outline for a descriptive essay, expert q&a.

This article was co-authored by Jake Adams . Jake Adams is an academic tutor and the owner of Simplifi EDU, a Santa Monica, California based online tutoring business offering learning resources and online tutors for academic subjects K-College, SAT & ACT prep, and college admissions applications. With over 14 years of professional tutoring experience, Jake is dedicated to providing his clients the very best online tutoring experience and access to a network of excellent undergraduate and graduate-level tutors from top colleges all over the nation. Jake holds a BS in International Business and Marketing from Pepperdine University. This article has been fact-checked, ensuring the accuracy of any cited facts and confirming the authority of its sources. This article has been viewed 1,520,028 times.

A good descriptive essay creates a vivid picture of the topic in the reader’s mind. You may need to write a descriptive essay as a class assignment or you may decide to write one as a fun writing challenge. Start by brainstorming ideas for the essay. Then, outline and write the essay using vivid sensory details and strong descriptions. Always polish your essay and proofread it so it is at its best.

Best Tips for Writing a Descriptive Essay

Outline the essay in sections and create a thesis statement to base the essay on. Then, write a strong introduction and describe the subject matter using creative and vivid adjectives. Use similes, metaphors, and your own emotions to help you bring the topic to life.

• You could also choose a fictional person to write about, such as a character in a book, a story, or a play. You could write about a character on your favorite TV show or video game.

• Another take on this option is to write about a made-up place or object, such as the fantastical school in your favorite book or the magic wand from your favorite TV show.

• You could also choose a more specific emotion, such as brotherly love or self-hatred. These emotions can make for powerful descriptive essays.

• For example, if you were writing about a person like your mother, you may write down under “sound” : “soft voice at night, clack of her shoes on the floor tiles, bang of the spoon when she cooks.”

• If you are writing the essay for a class, your instructor should specify if they want a five paragraph essay or if you have the freedom to use sections instead.

• For example, if you were writing a descriptive essay about your mother, you may have a thesis statement like: “In many ways, my mother is the reigning queen of our house, full of contradictions that we are too afraid to question.”

• For example, if you were writing the essay about your mom, you may start with: “My mother is not like other mothers. She is a fierce protector and a mysterious woman to my sisters and I.”
• If you were writing an essay about an object, you may start with: "Try as I might, I had a hard time keeping my pet rock alive."

• You can also use adjectives that connect to the senses, such “rotting,” “bright,” “hefty,” “rough,” and “pungent.”
• For example, you may describe your mother as "bright," "tough," and "scented with jasmine."

• You can also use similes, where you use “like” or “as” to compare one thing to another. For example, you may write, “My mother is like a fierce warrior in battle, if the battlefield were PTA meetings and the checkout line at the grocery store.”

• For example, you may write about your complicated feelings about your mother. You may note that you feel sadness about your mother’s sacrifices for the family and joy for the privileges you have in your life because of her.

• For example, you may end a descriptive essay about your mother by noting, “In all that she has sacrificed for us, I see her strength, courage, and fierce love for her family, traits I hope to emulate in my own life.”

• You can also read the essay aloud to others to get their feedback. Ask them to let you know if there are any unclear or vague sentences in the essay.

• Be open to constructive criticism and feedback from others. This will only make your essay stronger.

• If you have a word count requirement for the essay, make sure you meet it. Add more detail to the paper or take unnecessary content out to reach the word count.

Tips from our Readers

• Start your essay with an attention-grabbing introduction that gives a good sense of the topic.
• Make sure to check your spelling and grammar when you're done!

You Might Also Like

• ↑ https://www.writeexpress.com/descriptive-essay.html
• ↑ Jake Adams. Academic Tutor & Test Prep Specialist. Expert Interview. 24 July 2020.
• ↑ https://www.iup.edu/writingcenter/writing-resources/organization-and-structure/descriptive-writing.html
• ↑ https://spcollege.libguides.com/ld.php?content_id=10168248
• ↑ https://www.butte.edu/departments/cas/tipsheets/style_purpose_strategy/descriptive_essay.html
• ↑ https://owl.purdue.edu/owl/general_writing/academic_writing/essay_writing/descriptive_essays.html

About This Article

To write a descriptive essay, start by choosing a topic, like a person, place, or specific emotion. Next, write down a list of sensory details about the topic, like how it sounds, smells, and feels. After this brainstorming session, outline the essay, dividing it into an introduction, 3 body paragraphs, and a conclusion. Open with a vivid introduction that uses sensory details, then introduce your thesis statement, which the rest of your essay should support. Strengthen your essay further by using metaphors and similes to describe your topic, and the emotions it evokes. To learn how to put the finishing touches on your essay, keep reading! Did this summary help you? Yes No

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How To Write A Descriptive Essay?

Table of Contents

Introduction.

A descriptive essay is a captivating genre of writing that goes beyond mere storytelling; it immerses readers in a sensory experience, allowing them to vividly visualize and connect with the depicted scenes. In this article, we will delve into the art of crafting descriptive essays, unraveling the techniques that transform ordinary words into a tapestry of images, emotions, and sensations.

Before exploring the step-by-step process of writing a descriptive essay, let’s take a moment to understand the essence of this literary form.

What is a Descriptive Essay?

A descriptive essay is a type of writing that vividly portrays a person, place, object, or experience through detailed sensory observations, creating a vivid and immersive impression for the reader.

In a descriptive essay, the writer uses sensory details such as sights, sounds, smells, tastes, and textures to convey a rich and comprehensive depiction of the chosen subject.

The goal is to paint a vivid mental image for the reader, allowing them to experience the essence of the described entity. Through careful selection of language and a focus on sensory imagery, a well-crafted descriptive essay not only communicates information but also evokes emotions and engages the reader’s imagination.

This genre often relies on the use of figurative language, similes , metaphors , and other literary devices to enhance the descriptive elements and create a lasting impact on the audience.

Why Do We Write Descriptive Essays?

Descriptive essays serve a multifaceted purpose , engaging writers in a form of expression that goes beyond mere storytelling.

Here are some reasons why we write descriptive essays:

• Descriptive essays transport readers into the world being described, allowing them to feel the emotions and imagine the scenes vividly.
• Through detailed descriptions, writers create a sensory experience that resonates with the audience on an emotional level.
• The primary goal of a descriptive essay is to leave a lasting impression on the reader’s mind.
• By using rich language and sensory details, writers can make their subjects come alive, leaving a vivid and memorable impact.
• Writing descriptively encourages keen observation of the surroundings.
• Writers must pay attention to details, nuances, and sensory elements, honing their observational skills to create a nuanced and realistic portrayal.
• Descriptive writing challenges writers to use language effectively, employing various literary devices, figurative language, and sensory imagery.
• Crafting descriptive essays contributes to the development of a writer’s stylistic and expressive capabilities.
• Descriptive essays stimulate the reader’s imagination, encouraging them to mentally picture and experience the scenes described.
• Readers become active participants in the narrative, fostering a deeper connection with the content.
• Writers use descriptive essays to convey personal experiences, allowing readers to share in the emotions and details of significant moments.
• These essays become a medium through which writers communicate their unique perspectives and insights.
• Descriptive essays aim to capture the essence of a subject, whether it’s a place, person, event, or object.
• Writers strive to distill the core qualities and characteristics that define the subject, presenting a comprehensive and nuanced depiction.
• Descriptive writing often involves portraying diverse settings, cultures, or experiences.
• By engaging with descriptive essays, readers can gain a deeper appreciation for the richness and diversity of the world around them.

In essence, descriptive essays serve as a literary vehicle for writers to share their perceptions, elicit emotional responses, and transport readers to the realms of their imagination. The genre allows for a unique and immersive form of storytelling that transcends mere narration.

What is the Structure of a Descriptive Essay?

Organizing a descriptive essay involves two key aspects. Firstly, it encompasses the overall structure of the essay, comprising the introduction, body paragraphs, and conclusion. Secondly, it involves structuring the descriptive paragraphs, which can adopt either a chronological or spatial arrangement.

This dual consideration ensures a coherent and engaging presentation of the subject, capturing the reader’s attention through both the essay’s overarching organization and the detailed arrangement of descriptive elements.

Descriptive Essay Structure

The structure of a descriptive essay typically follows a chronological or spatial arrangement, allowing the reader to visualize the subject systematically. Here’s a basic outline commonly used for organizing a descriptive essay:

• Introduce the subject of your essay.
• Provide a brief overview or background information.
• Present the thesis statement, expressing the main idea or impression you want to convey.
• Each paragraph should focus on a specific aspect or feature of the subject.
• Start each paragraph with a topic sentence that introduces the main point.
• Use vivid and specific details, employing sensory language to create a clear image.
• Organize paragraphs logically, considering a chronological or spatial sequence.
• Summarize the key points without introducing new information.
• Reinforce the overall impression or emotion you want the reader to take away.
• End with a strong concluding statement that leaves a lasting impact

Paragraph Organization

Paragraph organization can be either chronological or spatial:

• If describing an event or process, arrange details in chronological order.
• Ensure smooth transitions between paragraphs to maintain a coherent narrative flow.
• If describing a place, arrange details based on the physical layout or spatial relationship.
• Move from one area to another in an organized manner, helping the reader navigate through the setting.

Let’s discuss now types of descriptive essay topics!

Descriptive Essays Topics

Descriptive essays cover a wide range of topics that aim to evoke a vivid and sensory experience for the reader. Here are several types of topics commonly assigned for writing descriptive essays:

• Recount a memorable event or moment from your life.
• Describe a significant achievement or challenge you’ve faced.
• Paint a picture of a specific landscape, such as a beach, mountain, or forest.
• Describe a natural phenomenon like a sunrise, sunset, or storm.
• Choose an everyday object and provide a detailed description of it.
• Describe a prized possession and explain its significance.
• Depict a family member, friend, or influential person in your life.
• Describe the characteristics of a fictional or historical figure.
• Explore a city, town, or neighborhood, highlighting its unique features.
• Describe a specific room, building, or location that holds special meaning.
• Describe a cultural or social event, such as a festival or celebration.
• Depict a historical event and its impact on individuals or society.
• Paint a detailed picture of an animal, domestic or wild.
• Describe a specific encounter with an animal and the emotions it evoked.
• Explore the nuances of a particular emotion, such as love, fear, or joy.
• Describe a moment that left a lasting emotional impact on you.
• Analyze and describe a piece of art, whether a painting, sculpture, or performance.
• Explore the details of a book, movie, or music composition.
• Describe a journey or travel destination, capturing the essence of the place.
• Depict the cultural and sensory aspects of a specific travel experience.

These topics provide a diverse range of opportunities to create rich, descriptive essays that engage readers by appealing to their senses and emotions. Depending on the assignment or personal preference, writers can choose topics that resonate with their experiences and allow for a compelling exploration of descriptive language.

Writing a Descriptive Essay

Here’s a step-by-step process to guide you in writing a descriptive essay:

Preparation

• Begin by exploring well-crafted descriptive essays to understand the distinctive features of this genre.
• Analyze how authors use sensory details, figurative language, and organization to create a vivid and immersive experience for the reader.
• Pay attention to the tone, mood, and overall style employed in descriptive writing.
• Choose a subject that holds personal significance or has the potential to evoke vivid imagery.
• Consider topics that allow for detailed sensory descriptions and emotional engagement.
• Jot down key details related to your chosen topic, including sights, sounds, smells, tastes, and textures.
• Reflect on personal experiences, memories, or observations that can enhance your descriptive narrative.
• Develop a clear thesis statement that encapsulates the main idea or impression you want to convey.
• Ensure that your thesis sets the tone for the overall descriptive focus of the essay.
• Organize your thoughts by creating an outline with sections for the introduction, body paragraphs, and conclusion.
• Consider whether a chronological, spatial, or thematic structure best suits your chosen topic.

After preparing for your descriptive essay, it is time for the drafting stage.

While drafting the essay make sure to consider the following steps:

• Begin with a hook that grabs the reader’s attention, such as a striking detail or a thought-provoking question.
• Introduce the subject and provide background information to set the stage for your descriptive exploration.
• End the introduction with a clear thesis statement.
• Devote each body paragraph to a specific aspect or feature of the subject.
• Start with a topic sentence that highlights the main point of the paragraph.
• Use descriptive language and sensory details to paint a vivid picture for the reader.
• Organize paragraphs coherently, maintaining a logical flow of ideas.
• Enhance your descriptions with similes, metaphors, and other literary devices to add depth and creativity.
• Ensure that figurative language contributes to a more nuanced and imaginative portrayal of the subject.
• Reiterate the overall impression or emotion you want the reader to take away.
• End with a powerful concluding statement that leaves a lasting impact.

Revising and Editing

After finishing the initial draft, take the time to revise your essay, ensuring that your descriptions are pertinent and compelling. Next, meticulously proofread the text for any errors, whether they pertain to grammar, spelling, punctuation, or capitalization.

• Review your essay for clarity, coherence, and consistency.
• Check for grammatical errors, spelling mistakes, and punctuation issues.
• Consider seeking feedback from peers or instructors to refine and improve your descriptive essay.
• Make any necessary revisions based on feedback.
• Ensure that your essay effectively conveys the intended emotions and imagery.
• Proofread the final draft to ensure a polished and well-crafted piece of writing.

Tips and Ideas for Writing a Good Descriptive Essay

Writing a compelling descriptive essay hinges on the art of vividly animating your subject, transcending the constraints of literal description found in formal essays. Here, the utilization of senses takes precedence, urging you to delve into rich figurative language. Furthermore, the success of your endeavor lies in a meticulously organized description, guided by a systematic and purposeful arrangement of details.

Here are some tips to consider:

• Enrich your descriptive essay by appealing to the reader’s senses. Describe sights, sounds, smells, tastes, and textures to create a multisensory experience.
• Incorporate vivid and specific details to paint a more immersive picture of the subject.
• Use language that taps into emotions, whether it’s conveying joy, sorrow, excitement, or tranquility.
• Connect with your readers on an emotional level by describing experiences or scenes that elicit specific feelings.
• Integrate similes and metaphors to add depth and nuance to your descriptions.
• Compare elements using vivid imagery, creating a more imaginative and engaging narrative.
• Consider different organizational structures to enhance the flow of your essay.
• From General to Specific (or Vice Versa): Gradually zoom in on details or start with specifics and broaden the focus.
• From Outside to Inside (or Vice Versa): Begin by describing the external features before delving into the internal aspects or vice versa.
• From Least Important to Most Important (or Vice Versa): Build up the significance of details progressively or prioritize the most important features first.
• Chronological Order: Follow a timeline, describing events or details in the order they occur, such as from the beginning to the end of a journey.
• Concentrate on key elements to avoid overwhelming the reader with excessive details.
• Ensure that each paragraph has a clear focus, contributing to the overall theme of your descriptive essay.
• Instead of outright stating facts, show them through descriptive language and imagery.
• Allow readers to draw their own conclusions by vividly illustrating scenes, emotions, and experiences.
• After drafting your essay, review and revise it with a critical eye.
• Trim unnecessary words or redundant descriptions to maintain clarity and conciseness.
• Ensure a smooth transition between paragraphs to sustain the narrative flow.
• Share your descriptive essay with others and seek constructive feedback.
• Consider how well your descriptions resonate with readers and make adjustments accordingly.

Remember, the things we describe have the power to evoke a multitude of sensations:

• Feel: happy, angry, cold, hot…
• See: big, large, small, tiny…
• Touch: coarse, hard, soft, smooth…
• Taste: sweet, sour, bitter…
• Hear: loud, quiet, silent…
• Smell: bad, moldy, unpleasant, pleasant…

Utilize these sensory details to bring your descriptive essay to life and create a vivid experience for your readers.

Descriptive Essay Example

This is an example of descriptive writing. This essay attempts to paint a picture of the city market. It follows the structure we discussed earlier.

A Symphony of Colors and Sounds at the City Market

In the heart of the city, a vibrant market unfolds like a living canvas, each stall a stroke of color and every vendor a maestro in a symphony of commerce. The air is thick with anticipation and the palpable energy of a thousand stories unfolding in a bustling tapestry of sights and sounds.

As you step into the market, the first wave of impressions hits you like a crescendo. The riot of colors assaults your senses, from the radiant reds of ripe tomatoes to the earthy browns of handcrafted baskets. Stalls adorned with fabrics of every hue create a kaleidoscope, inviting shoppers to weave through a maze of possibilities. The vibrant saris flutter like flags in the breeze, each one telling a unique story of tradition and craftsmanship.

Amidst the labyrinth of stalls, the sounds of the market form a harmonious blend of life. The rhythmic clang of a blacksmith shaping metal resonates with the staccato beats of a drummer performing in the street. The haggling banter of vendors, a language in itself, weaves into the laughter of children running through the crowd. Overhead, the calls of hawkers mingle with the distant hum of city life, creating a symphony that is both chaotic and strangely melodic.

As you navigate through the market, the smells become a sensory guide, leading you from one culinary delight to another. The earthy aroma of freshly ground spices competes with the sweet fragrance of ripe mangoes, while the smoky trail of street food wafts through the air. The market, in this olfactory symphony, becomes a playground for the senses, enticing you to explore its every nook and cranny.

The market is not just a marketplace; it is a living organism, pulsating with the vitality of those who inhabit it. The faces of vendors tell tales of resilience and survival, etched with lines of hard-earned wisdom. Shoppers, eager and contemplative, weave through the crowd like characters in a novel, each on their own quest for treasures and experiences.

As the sun begins its descent, casting a warm glow over the market, the symphony reaches its finale. The fading light transforms the chaos into a mosaic of shadows and highlights, accentuating the textures and contours of this lively ecosystem. The market, having played its daily opus, prepares to slumber until the next dawn.

In the midst of this bustling city market, where chaos and harmony coexist, one discovers not just a marketplace, but a living, breathing entity. It is a testament to the resilience of the human spirit, a celebration of diversity, and a sensory journey that leaves an indelible mark on all who traverse its vibrant aisles.

Here’s an analysis of the above structure:

• The essay starts with a captivating introduction that sets the scene for the descriptive journey, establishing the bustling city market as a vibrant and living canvas.
• The body paragraphs vividly explore different aspects of the market, focusing on colors, sounds, and smells. Each paragraph is dedicated to a specific sensory experience, using descriptive language to paint a detailed picture for the reader.
• The organizational structure includes a thematic approach, showcasing the various elements that contribute to the overall atmosphere of the market.
• The essay concludes with a reflection on the market’s significance, portraying it as a living organism with a rhythm of its own. It emphasizes the resilience of the human spirit and the diversity celebrated within the market.
• The final paragraph ties together the sensory experiences, portraying the market as a dynamic entity that plays its daily opus, preparing for a new day.

A descriptive essay is a literary endeavor that goes beyond mere narration, immersing readers in a sensory journey through carefully crafted words. To write a compelling description, you must consider not only the selection of vivid details that appeal to the senses but also the artful arrangement of these elements.

Deliberate choices in language, from the use of figurative expressions to the organization of the narrative, contribute to the creation of a captivating and immersive experience for your audience. In essence, a well-executed descriptive essay transforms the ordinary into the extraordinary, leaving an indelible impression on the reader’s imagination.

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Descriptive Essay

Descriptive Essay Writing

Last updated on: Feb 9, 2023

How To Write An Impactful Descriptive Essay?

By: Cathy A.

12 min read

Reviewed By: Melisa C.

Published on: Dec 17, 2019

Wondering how to write an impressive descriptive essay? Writing a descriptive essay is both fun and challenging. You need to describe the main topic in detail and by engaging the five senses of the readers.

Students usually get this type of essay in high school and college. Writing a descriptive essay is different from other essays.

You need to focus on describing a certain person, place, or event.

Luckily for you, the following blog post will provide some helpful tips on how to create an engaging essay.

Continue reading to learn how to write an A-worthy descriptive essay.

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What is a Descriptive Essay?

A descriptive essay is a detailed paper that describes a place, person, situation, object, or emotion. Different people have different points of view and your job is to explain yours in detail.

You may be asked to write a descriptive essay about the beach or forest or about a person or situation. The purpose of this essay is to test the writer’s ability in expressing and explaining their experiences.

Descriptive writing should create a picture in the reader’s mind. You may be required to write a descriptive essay as a high school or college essay assignment.

For a compelling essay, using adjectives and adverbs, details, and figurative language is fundamental. Without proper usage of words, you will not be able to invoke the readers' emotions.

What is the Purpose of a Descriptive Essay?

The purpose of a descriptive essay is to describe a person, place, or personal experience in vivid detail so that the reader can create a picture in his mind.

The descriptive essay is written to get the reader to understand by using descriptive language. It is different from narrative essays, where the writer tells the story about someone else. Usually, it starts with a real-life event and then the content follows the author's imagination.

Descriptive essays are not intended to persuade the reader or show facts and figures to prove something. Descriptive essays are like word paintings that contain personal and descriptive details and these are mostly assigned to students of creative writing.

How to Start a Descriptive Essay

A strong start for your descriptive essay is essential. Analyze your topic from every angle and document the following details:

Analyze the main subjects in detail and observe minute things.

• Start with observing all the possible aspects of the subject.
• Don't just observe the object but also its surroundings.
• Focus on details and features of the subject and develop opinions about them.
• Be thoughtful; this first step will be the basis for the essay.

Physical Settings

Describing the physical settings is a must in a descriptive essay. When describing, keep the following points in mind.

• Focus on the subject's position and observe nearby objects
• Note the time of day and kind of lighting: natural or imitated
• Physical settings: all the basic and decorative elements
• The position and shape of the objects
• Alignment and any other observable information

Physical Features

When describing the physical features of the subject, living or nonliving, consider the following points.

• Living or nonliving; describe the features in detail
• The subject's skin color, texture, smoothness, expression, and age
• The features of inanimate objects in the picture, color, surface, and texture

Create Drama

Storytelling and drama are the life and blood of a good descriptive essay. It turns your essay into an exciting and interesting piece of writing. However, be subtle about adding drama to your sentence structure and add it to complement your story only.

Focus On Your Feelings

Focus on how you feel about the particular topic or person and stick to it. It is easy to get involved when working on the essay. But, focus on your own feelings and write an essay based on them.

Use Of Specific Vocabulary

Vocabulary is important. Select the best words for describing an action or object. Don't always use the first word that comes to mind.

Write slowly and thoughtfully, and use specific words to convey your thoughts.

Psychological Aspects

Writing about a certain situation or behavior of a person focuses on the mental aspects and emotions involved in them.

For Example, describe your emotions when your friend misplaced your notes right before the exam.

You may have had several emotions in that incident. Maybe you were prepared for exams, but this situation put you under pressure and made you feel frustrated and hurt.

Explore those emotions and describe the feelings they aroused. Describe the body language also, if relevant.

Ask Yourself, WHY?

This is the most valuable tip for students. When you are looking at a particular subject, and having difficulty analyzing its aspects, ask yourself "WHY".

• Why is the subject the way it is?
• Why does the person you are describing have such a deep-set and cold eyes?
• Why is the animal so wounded and terrified?
• Why is this particular place famous?

It is a good practice and after some time you will do it naturally. Knowing the why is important if you want to describe your topic properly.

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How To Write A Descriptive Essay?

When you write a descriptive essay, you help your readers visualize an event, a person, or a story. It is written to make your readers feel what you feel about the respective subject.

A descriptive essay seeks to appeal to some or all of the audience’s five senses. Some key things to consider are:

• Discussing your subject thoroughly
• Focusing on details and adding them in your essay
• Sharing your personal feelings and experience about the subject
• Observing and describing all sensory details of your subject

Here are the steps to write a descriptive essay easily.

1- Choose an Engaging and Focused Essay Topic

An important step that all strong descriptive essays share is having a focused topic. Before you make the outline, identify the purpose of your essay and use it to create an appropriate thesis statement.This type of paper does not require much personal opinion from you. Its main goal should be focusing on information that will make a dominant impression in readers' minds instead.

2- Research and Gather Important Details

When writing a descriptive essay, it is important to make sure you include as many details and sensory information as possible. This helps your reader fully understand the images that are being presented in their mind's eye.You can organize these ideas into categories so they're easy for you to access when needed.

3- Create an Outline of Your Essay

Your essays must be organized by having subheadings that are clear and concise. Group your main points into individual body paragraphs, each of which should only cover one idea or topic at a time.

4- Write your Essay’s Introduction

A good introductory paragraph is much like a road map because it provides direction to your readers.

It provides relevant background information before diving into more specific details related to how something works or why something happens. These could include statistics or stories from real-life scenarios.

5- Write the Main Body Section of Your Essay

Each body paragraph should start with a topic sentence that keeps the reader hooked on what you are saying. Use specific details instead of making generalized statements, and make sure to give examples if necessary.

6- End with a Strong Conclusion

The conclusion of an essay is the final paragraph, and it should summarize all that you have said throughout. It's a good idea to restate the main points and key details from the essay in this section.

It is important so the reader has everything they need for better understanding before ending off on something new.

If necessary be sure not to introduce anything odd or unusual, to avoid any confusion.

7- Proofread and Revise the Essay Carefully

Once you are done writing the essay, proofread and revise it carefully. Make sure that it is free from all kinds of errors.

Descriptive Essay Outline

Like all the other essays, a descriptive essay also follows the usual 5-paragraph essay structure and format.Before starting, it is important to create an outline. Following are the fundamental elements of your descriptive essay outline:

Descriptive Essay Introduction

The introduction sets the footing for the entire essay. Before heading towards the body section, the reader will come across the introduction.

It is the first impression of your work. It is very important to write an engaging introduction so that the readers read the essay till the end.

Start the essay in an easy-to-understand way and language. Provide background information on your topic so they can understand it and its importance.

To make sure the reader feels your emotions and decides to continue reading further, incorporate the following points in your introduction.

The following tips will guide you on how to write a good introduction for a descriptive essay.

• Attract the reader's attention with an interesting fact, phrase, or quote
• Don't bombard them with information
• Go straight to the main pointsInclude enough information to introduce the topic and its significance.
• Summarize the argument and the main topic and craft your thesis statement

Descriptive Essay Thesis Statement

A thesis statement is an integral part of your essay. It focuses on the argument and the writer’s main idea, which is to be discussed in the essay.

This statement also provides the writer with a chance of explaining the purpose and scope of the topic. It is intriguing and engaging.

A thesis statement is written at the end of the introduction, it is mainly a single sentence that describes the essay objective. The thesis statement should act as a guide to the reader on what to expect in the essay body. It is like a table of contents of a book, to the reader on contents you will get an idea of what the book is all about so you get to understand it better.

It is like a table of contents of a book. By reading it, you will get an idea of what the book is all about.

A good thesis should contain the following things:

• Define the essay scope - it should narrow down all the points to clarify its purpose.
• Avoid using common words - you should be creative with your choice of words.
• Create suspense - it should attract the reader to the body paragraphs of the essay.

For further information on how to write a thesis for a descriptive essay, check out the following examples.

• Descriptive essay example about a Place

“Even though monarchy is long gone, Buckingham Palace is here to remind us of the aesthetic beauty of that era.”

• Descriptive essay example about a Person

“One of the characteristics of Spider-Man is his youthfulness, and the fact that he talks to himself more than Hamlet.”

• Descriptive essay example about an Emotion

“For numerous reasons, the dark forest is my greatest fear, though not a fear which is necessarily smart to face.”

Descriptive Essay Body Paragraphs

Body paragraphs of the essay come next after the introduction and thesis statement. It is the main part that continues your essay.

Usually, an essay consists of three body paragraphs but you can add more if needed.

Don't add more than one central idea in one paragraph. Fusing different ideas will confuse the reader.

Build your paragraphs according to the thesis and introduction.

• Start each body paragraph with the main sentence
• Use transitions to move between paragraphs smoothly
• Each paragraph should be five to six sentences long

Descriptive Essay Conclusion

The concluding paragraph is the last part of an essay, and probably your last chance to impress your reader.

The last part that the reader can keep in mind is the conclusion, which is as important as the rest of the essay.

To make it interesting and thought-provoking, include the following points:

• Restate the thesis statement
• Summarize the main points
• Add an intriguing closing statement

After writing the conclusion, make a review of your essay, identify the mistakes and maintain a good tone throughout the essay.

Descriptive Essay Format Sample

Here is the descriptive essay format to help you understand how you can write a winning descriptive essay.

DESCRIPTIVE ESSAY FORMAT (PDF)

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Descriptive Essay Topics Ideas

Descriptive essay topics are often related to physical settings, locations, living beings, and objects.

Make sure that your essay includes the five senses, touch, taste, smell, sight, hearing, or at least one of them. It depends on the topic and the kind of feeling that you want to arouse.

Below are some descriptive essay ideas and ways to achieve them.

Living Beings

When you want to write about a person like a family member, consider the following elements:

• Gender, age, complexion, and expressions
• Physical features
• Height, body type, and approximate weight
• Kind of clothes

These details will add depth to the description and your readers will actually see your narrative.

When animals are the subject, you can add the above points plus the following details:

• Species and animal
• Size, weight, color
• Behavior patterns
• Temperament
• Trained or wild?
• Real or fictional?

Inanimate Subjects

Geographic locations and structures.

When your subject is a place or a building, add the following points:

• Research about the place and its historical background
• The color and the building's type
• A famous place or landmark to draw a comparison and inspire interest

Human behavior and psychology is a compelling descriptive essay subject. When writing about it:

• Describe the consequences of a particular behavior
• Discuss the emotional dimension of the topic and how you perceive it personally

Event Or Travel Experience

A travel experience makes a good descriptive essay since you have experienced the event first hand.

Give a detailed description of the place, people at the venue, and the atmosphere of the location.

Idea, Concept, or Occupation

When writing on such topics, focus on how an idea or concept affects society and its different aspects.

Example Descriptive Essay Topics for Students

Choosing a topic for your descriptive essay is quite interesting. You get to choose something that you have an emotional connection with.

When writing a descriptive essay about a person or place, adding their personal traits will be helpful.

Some examples of descriptive essay topics include:

• Compose a detailed descriptive essay about your best friend.
• Describe a fancy place that you have created.
• Describe your dream vacation destination.
• Describe your favorite mall or store.
• Describe your childhood home.
• Descriptive essay about nature.
• Descriptive essay about a place you visited.
• Describe the personality of your Maths teacher.
• Discuss the main characters of your favorite movie.
• Descriptive essay about chocolate.
• Write an essay using unique Words to describe yourself.
• What makes me unique?
• My first love.

Descriptive Essay Examples

Study these descriptive essay examples and sample papers to understand the main idea, structure, and purpose of descriptive essays.

DESCRIPTIVE ESSAY ON MARKET (PDF)

DESCRIPTIVE ESSAY EXAMPLE PERSON (PDF)

To help you understand how to write a great descriptive essay, we have a whole blog post dedicated to it. We know that talking about something is one thing and demonstrating it is completely different.

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Frequently Asked Questions

What are the features of a descriptive essay.

A descriptive essay provides a perfect opportunity for writers to express their feelings on any subject. Descriptive writing has rich sensory details which appeal to all of your senses.

How do you start a descriptive essay introduction?

The introduction to the descriptive essay should set the scene and introduce the main topic. You can use these sensory details to get a sense of what the essay is all about.

What are the two types of descriptive essays?

There are two types of descriptive essays. The first type deals with people, and the second one is about objects.

What are the elements of a descriptive essay?

Here are the key elements of a descriptive essay.

• Sensory details
• Figurative language
• Central and main theme
• Precise and clear language
• Proper organization of ideas

What makes good descriptive writing?

Good and effective descriptive writing consists of vivid sensory details that appeal to all senses including the sense of sight, smell, touch, hearing, and taste. Moreover, these essays also explain people’s feelings in writing.

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Cathy has been been working as an author on our platform for over five years now. She has a Masters degree in mass communication and is well-versed in the art of writing. Cathy is a professional who takes her work seriously and is widely appreciated by clients for her excellent writing skills.

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How to Write a Descriptive Essay?

Published by Grace Graffin at August 26th, 2021 , Revised On August 22, 2023

What is a Descriptive Essay?

A descriptive  essay  is a  type of essay  that allows you to create a  narrative  based on something you experience. It provides you with an opportunity for learning by describing an object, person, location, experience, emotion, circumstance, or other phenomena. A writer expresses his/her emotions creatively in a descriptive essay that attracts the reader’s attention.

What is the Purpose of a Descriptive Essay?

The purpose of the descriptive essay is to portray your feelings and emotions related to any object or event that enables readers/listeners to envision what is being described. To do it, you can use sensory details that attract the senses, like sight, sound, smell, touch, and taste.

Example: The statue was tall.” or “I saw the statue looming over me. (informing) The bikes appeared to be moving in formation, trailing one another along the street (showing).

An excellent narration in your descriptive essay can have a lasting impression on the reader’s mind.

Descriptions are either subjective or objective. In an objective description, you describe the object or event without letting your emotions and feelings influence the description.

Example: It could be: 1. An incident you witnessed or a news item: 25 people, including men, women, and children, died in a bus accident, and 5 people were severely injured. 2. It could also be a description of your business meet or

Whereas in a subjective description, you need to describe the object or event through your emotions and feelings.

When you describe the same example of a news item mentioned above in a subjective description, you incorporate more details expressing your concern about the pain and suffering the victims and their families had to suffer.

Example: 25 people, including men, women, and children, died in a bus accident, and 5 people were severely injured. It was a painful incident, people. They were screaming with fear and pain. I can still remember those screams, and I can’t forget those teary eyes and sad faces of those helpless people, including innocent children.

Similarly, when you describe your first business meeting where you had to give your business presentation, you will add excitement, happiness, nervousness, the confidence you faced before and during the presentation.

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Descriptive Essay Writing Guidelines

A descriptive essay consists of three parts- an  introduction , a  body , and a  conclusion . The introduction part must start with a strong opening line to give the  outline  of the  topic . If it is about any person, you can mention some specific personality traits and give some idea about physical appearance.

In the next section, you should describe your  topic  in detail. The number of paragraphs is dependent on the  length of the essay , but in general, one paragraph should contain 150-200 words. The first  paragraph  will provide the theme and the idea about the content of the next paragraphs. The next two paragraphs will describe the topic. To explain the topic, you should use sensory details, imaginary language, and words, including verbs, adjectives, and adverbs.

In the final section, you need to provide a summary of the topic. In the last line, re-establish your thoughts and the primary theme of the essay.

How to Write a Descriptive Essay About a Person?

Writing a descriptive essay about a person is challenging as you have to include specific traits and portray their character.

Appearance-  It is necessary to define physical traits like skin colour, hair, eyes, nose, height, body structure, etc. You may also describe the type of cloth and accessories to identify the person quickly.

Manners-  You should describe a person’s habits and behaviour: he smokes a cigar, drinks alcohol, or wears a hat or glasses.

Character traits- The character traits are difficult to write. You should have enough knowledge about the person to describe the character trait. Some qualities may include honesty, sincerity, or negative qualities like resentful, arrogant, miser, etc.

Emotions-  You can also describe the person as melancholic, sanguine, choleric, or phlegmatic, with a sense of humour.

You can consider an essay about your mother as a descriptive essay example. While writing this essay, you should write about the special characteristics of your mother. You can then write about how she cares and nurtures the family, including how special she is to you.

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How to Write a Thesis Statement for a Descriptive Essay?

The  thesis statement  of a descriptive essay should remain concise, clear, and direct. It must provide an  outline of the essay. A thesis statement is a guide to the complete essay, it is the essay’s theme, and the topic should revolve around this theme throughout the essay. Along with learning essay writing, you can also get professional essay help to boost your grades with minimum effort.

Descriptive Essay Types

Different types of descriptive essays are:

• Personal descriptive essay – you should describe your  personal experience—examples: a visit to your favourite holiday destination, the experience of watching a particular movie.
• Imaginative descriptive essay – you should enhance your imagination to describe the topic—examples: a soldier’s experience in World War II, life on another planet.
• Conceptual descriptive essay – you should write on some abstract topic like emotion. Example: Write your own opinion about love.

Example of a Descriptive Essay

Here is an example of a short descriptive essay for you:

Frequently Asked Questions

How do i start a descriptive essay.

Start a descriptive essay by:

• Selecting a vivid topic.
• Creating a strong thesis statement.
• Outlining main points or aspects.
• Using sensory details to paint a picture.
• Organizing ideas logically.
• Engaging the reader’s senses and emotions.

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Descriptive Essay Topics, Format, and Guideline of the Writing Process

As the name suggests, this essay provides a description of an object, an experience, a person, an emotion, a place, or a situation. Using illustrative words, the writer makes the reader feel, see, or hear what is being described. Descriptive essay writing involves less research effort than other types of academic writing assignments. It is an opportunity for the writer to put their creativity to work to bring any topic to life. It is also a pretty open task that does not have many rules to follow. When assigned such a task, students are usually required to describe an experience, person, feeling, place, object, or situation.

A descriptive essay can be an easy task to complete. However, for someone who has not mastered the art of descriptive writing, coming up with a good essay can be an uphill task. Luckily, this guide provides enough resources to help you learn how to write a descriptive essay.

Let us look at the structure of a good descriptive essay.

• 1 Writing Structure When You Already Have Descriptive Essay Topics to Work With
• 2.1 An Introduction
• 2.2 The Body
• 2.3 Prices Starting At:
• 2.4 The Conclusion
• 3.1 Step 1: Picking Descriptive Essay Topics
• 3.2 Step 2: Plan
• 3.3 Step 3: Draft the Essay 
• 3.4 Step 4: Revise
• 3.5 Step 5: Edit
• 4 Writing Guidelines After Choosing Descriptive Essay Topics

Writing Structure When You Already Have Descriptive Essay Topics to Work With

As previously stated, there aren’t a lot of rules to be followed in descriptive essay writing. The subject and the mood you wish to create often dictate the format. Some rules do exist, the most notable being that you need to start with the general before going into the specifics. An important aspect of good descriptive essay writing is how the essay is structured since it makes it easier for the reader to read and understand the essay. The standard descriptive essay outline thus consists of:

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An Introduction

In this section, the descriptive essay’s main topic is introduced to the reader. It should start with a strong opening sentence or quote that will catch attention. At the end of the introductory paragraph, a thesis statement should be presented. This section is concerned with giving the readers a general idea of what the essay is about. The body of the essay follows the introduction section.

In the body section, you need to provide details about your topic.  This part is presented artistically with vivid language rich in adverbs and adjectives. This section is organized into paragraphs as follows:

The first paragraph: Vividly describes the object, person, or the event itself, providing the necessary details. For instance, if you are writing a descriptive essay about a place, you will describe the place under the body. For example, when writing a descriptive essay about the beach, begin by describing the beach itself. Tell your readers about the waves and the appearance of the water and the sand. Tell them what you smelt on the beach, how the sand felt on your feet, and the sounds made by the water. Always remember to use good descriptive words.

The second paragraph: You discuss the surroundings of the subject of the essay. For the beach scenario, you could talk about the sun, birds, clouds, people and their activities, and other objects of interest in the surrounding.

The third paragraph: You bring the essay to life with a sensual description using your senses of touch, taste, sight, smell, and sound to paint a vivid picture. The main focus here will be on the emotions the subject invokes. In both the description of the surroundings and the emotion, similes and metaphors are often used. Once you have exhausted your ideas for the body section, you can then conclude the essay.

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The Conclusion

In the conclusion section, summarize the main points, including your physical and emotional attitude and views on the topic of your descriptive essay. This section is based largely on your imagination and an analysis of the essay topic. The descriptive essay thesis statement is also reframed.

Now that you know how to structure the essay, the next thing we will look at is how to go about writing your descriptive essay.

The Writing Process

Step 1: picking descriptive essay topics.

The first step to writing a descriptive essay is selecting a topic if you have not been assigned a specific topic. The problem is that students often find it challenging to pick a topic. As with any essay, you need to pick a subject that is not too narrow. A narrow subject will make it difficult for you to meet the required essay length. You may also need to consider a number of descriptive essay topics before you finally settle on one. The topic doesn’t necessarily have to be unique as long as you can paint a vivid picture of it and give it life. Here are some descriptive essay topics to help you figure out what to write about. I’ll get ahead of myself here a bit to give a few things to note when writing each of these categories of descriptive essays.

Descriptive Essay About a Person

The subject of your descriptive essay can be your favorite person, such as a family member. It can also be a friend, a neighbor, or a famous person. You could also describe yourself. Whichever person you write about should be someone that you know well. As you write the essay, remember to describe other aspects in addition to the physical characteristics. Otherwise, your descriptive essay won’t be considered good. Include personality traits in your description in a creative way. You will probably have to pick a few traits to discuss in the body paragraphs. It is also possible for a student to struggle with writing a conclusion paragraph for this category of essays. In the conclusion paragraph, summarize those traits to explain how complex or interesting the person is. Use it to explain your experience and sentiments about interacting or living with that person.

Descriptive Essay About a Place

Places are a common subject for descriptive essays. You could describe a place you love, your bedroom, your favorite classroom, or your favorite store. You could also go against the tide and choose less common places to write about. Cemeteries, construction sites, hospitals, or amusement parks are not commonly selected as descriptive essay topics. The places are not limited to these, so feel free to consider more. It could be a real or imagined place. What’s important is that you describe the place, its surroundings, and your emotions about it well.

Descriptive Essay About a Memory

You can base your essay on a vivid memory that you have. This can be the most embarrassing moment, your saddest or happiest memories, a memorable trip, or a concert you attended. Search your memories and find one you can vividly describe in your essay.

Descriptive Essay Topics About an Experience

Descriptive essays can be written about everyday experiences such as graduation. However, you can select other descriptive essay topics, such as a frightening experience you had, and provide descriptive details about what happened, where, when, and how you felt. Don’t forget to use your five senses. You can also write about your first day in class regarding aspects such as the classroom, the people, and how you felt.

Descriptive Essay About an Object

For this type of descriptive essay, any object can be the topic. You can write about your couch if you believe you can fascinatingly portray the couch and make the essay interesting. Unfortunately, that would be a mean feat for many. If you are not confident about your ability to write a good descriptive essay on the everyday items before you, go for less orthodox choices. Choose descriptive essay topics that are simple, such as a painting, your favorite childhood toy, a tattoo, or a street.

Descriptive Essay About a Movie

You can pick your favorite movie and give a descriptive account of its plot, favorite character, context, and cinematography, among others. You can also compare the movie you are describing to another movie. It is important to first watch the movie comprehensively to come up with a good description. The American horror movie, Final Destination, was widely talked about when it was released in 2000. If you choose to write a descriptive essay about such a movie, you can narrow your description to just one series of the movie.

Descriptive Essay About a Book

Just like movies, it is important to read a book first before getting down to writing a descriptive essay about it. Again, like in movies, you can describe the book’s plot, main characters, context, and rhetorical and stylistic devices used. You can also settle for a chapter of a book, the main character, or salient stylistic devices. The novel Fifth Business , authored by Robertson Davies, is a book that most professors ask their students to read in their literature classes. The book is rich in plot and characters and can form a good basis for writing a descriptive essay about a book. After reading it, you can write a descriptive essay about the plot or the main characters, such as Boy (Percy Boyd) Staunton, Mrs. Mary Dempster, and Dunstan Ramsay.

Step 2: Plan

Once you’ve settled on the general topic, you need to consider what characteristics/aspects you want to include in the essay. Brainstorm all the details about the subject, its surroundings, and the emotions it invokes. Not all of the ideas you come up with here will end up in the essay but include them anyway. You will filter out the unnecessary ones later as you continue to plan the essay and create an outline.

Step 3: Draft the Essay 

Guided by the outline you developed in the first step, write the essay describing the subject and structure it accordingly. The standard descriptive essay format described above will guide you on what to include in each section. Also, remember the general guidelines for writing a descriptive essay and ensure a logical flow in the descriptive paragraphs and throughout the essay. Some of these guidelines include:

Step 4: Revise

Once you are done creating the draft, you should go through the essay again, reorganizing and modifying it as you deem necessary to ensure that the entire essay has a logical flow. As you do these, you need to keep a few things in mind:

• The paragraphs should describe the subject and unfold in such a way that allows easy reading and appreciation of the subject. It should not confuse the reader.
• The language and word choice should involve the five senses and portray emotion and meaning.
• The details provided should be enough to give readers a clear, comprehensive picture.
• The reader should identify with the conclusion.

Step 5: Edit

Go through the essay removing grammatical mistakes and errors in mechanics, clichés, and overuse of adjectives and adverbs. Another pair of eyes can help you identify and correct these issues. Once done with this step, you should have a good, error-free descriptive essay ready for submission.

Hopefully, after going through this article, you have an idea about how to write a good essay based on the various descriptive essay topics mentioned. You’ll also find many descriptive essay examples online to further assist you in writing your essay. Additionally, you can get assistance in the form of quality custom essays to use as a descriptive essay sample from writingelites.net.

Writing Guidelines After Choosing Descriptive Essay Topics

• Appeal to the senses

When writing a descriptive essay, you need to embellish it with senses. Sight, touch, smell, hearing, and taste are key senses to include in your essay. If, for instance, you are describing the new eatery you just visited, talk about what it looked like, but also include what the place smelled like (e.g., if there was a sweet aroma of food or if the air was smoke-filled and stuffy). You could also talk about the sounds you heard while there (e.g., if there was soft music or trucks passing outside were the only thing you could hear).

• Tap into your reservoir

A connection with the reader of your essay can only be effectively established if you can adequately describe the emotions. Therefore, when writing a descriptive essay, think about what you felt (i.e., if you are describing an experience). Tap into the feelings of joy, loss, or complacency to write descriptively and effectively create the image you want in the readers’ minds.

• Do not just tell, show

As the descriptive essay definition indicates, the aim is to paint a picture using words. You can achieve this by using vivid language, which will help you show the reader what you are talking about. Choose your words carefully when writing the essay. Avoid vague words. In their place, use more specific words that paint a clearer picture of what you are describing. For instance, rather than simply using ‘horse,’ opt for words that paint a stronger, clearer image, such as a ‘swift stallion.’ This gives the reader the picture of a courser.  It’s not enough to say ‘the woman wore old clothes.’ That is simply telling. Show by including more details, such as ‘the woman wore a faded dress that was torn on one side and looked as though a rat had made a meal out of the hem.’

There are many good descriptive words that you can use to make the picture you want to create clear. These include adverbs such as angrily, quickly, and lazily; adjectives such as smart, brave, grim, mellow, luxurious, and agreeable; and gerunds such as running, walking, and grazing. Similes and metaphors will also feature in a good descriptive essay. Just remember that the descriptive words you use should flow freely.

• Be clear and concise

A key requirement for writing a good descriptive essay is being concise. The level of conciseness is not as high as that of other essays since you have the freedom to add descriptive words. However, that freedom doesn’t mean you should go overboard. Most importantly, the details included in the essay should be relevant to the essay’s subject.  As with any other essay or written literature, the reader won’t necessarily appreciate all the details you provide. In fact, if you fill the essay with unnecessary things, the reader might get bored. Descriptive doesn’t mean that you should go on and on describing a single thing or something that is not crucial to the topic. For instance, if you are describing a surprise party you had, it’s not necessary to tell the reader about the three tiled stairs at the door. You should also purpose to use words that are relevant to paint the picture you want to present clearly. Remember to describe without being too wordy and leave the clichés out of your essay.

• Be organized

A great descriptive essay idea can be turned into a boring, impossible-to-read piece of writing when it lacks organization. As you write your descriptive essay, be careful not to rumble incoherently. This is an easy trap to fall into and should be avoided at all costs. Furnish your essay with a logical, organized description that will give the reader a clear picture of what you are trying to describe.

The aim should be to leave a strong appreciation for whatever you are describing in the readers’ minds. If you can make the readers feel as though they were the ones relaxing or walking down the beach you just described or crave the pizza you just wrote about, you are on your way to being a great descriptive writer.

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Guidelines To Write The Best Descriptive Essays

Table of Contents

Mastering the art of writing.

Words are powerful tools that can help writers explore the inner depths of the human mind. After the introspection, they can present their findings in an approachable manner that can be read and understood by others. It will not be an overstatement to say that words hold power over people. Using the right words, they can be moved, inspired, and even charged for a cause.

It is understandable for a student in school or college to have the desire of mastering the art of writing. He can achieve better grades with superior writing skills and tower over his peers. In professional life, the ability to write persuasive prose can open doors to countless opportunities.

Descriptive Essay – Evoking Vivid Images Through Words

Descriptive writing is loved by readers because of the vivid imagery that can help them see or feel the subject through the power of words. The subject of descriptive writing can be a person bearing special characteristics for the writer, an object of significance, a place of importance, a life-altering experience, or even a deeply moving emotion.

Writers rely on figurative language and literary devices such as similes, metaphors, and others to paint a larger-than-life image of the subject for the readers. Since the sole focus is on a single topic, the whole content of the essay is geared toward illuminating every relevant aspect.

There are two major types of descriptive essay writing. One is objective which is self-evident and the other is impressionistic which bears the personal trademarks and longings of the writer.

Purpose of Writing Descriptive Essays

The purpose of writing descriptive essays is to entertain the readers and make them “see” or “feel” the subject through the power of prose. The purpose is fulfilled through superior writing skills and control over elements of the essay.

Many experts believe that the best way to see whether the purpose of writing is fulfilled or not is by asking the readers how much they are satisfied with the write-up.

If they can swear that they have the experience of observing and treating the subject first-hand, then it means that the purpose was fulfilled. Otherwise, the writer needs to work on his prose and the elements of the essay to ensure readers’ satisfaction.

Your Path To Write Descriptive Masterpieces

Writing a superb descriptive essay is like starting a long but rewarding journey. Before setting out on the path, the wayfarer must procure necessary supplies and get the heading for the destination through a well-defined map. Since you are on the journey to learn how to write great descriptive essays, this is your pathway. It will shed ample light on everything you need before starting as well as along the way.

So, without further ado, let’s get started! 

Choosing A Topic And Turning It Into A Title

Many students ask the question of whether a descriptive essay can be written without a topic or a title. Maybe, a descriptive essay can be written, but a good descriptive essay cannot even start without a topic and a working title. A topic is a focused area of the subject whereas a title is somehow a blueprint for the whole essay. For instance, a day in school can be a topic but the most embarrassing day in school is a title. In academic institutions, these are often given by the instructors so that students do not have to come up on their own. When this is the case, there is no need to spend time and other resources on further improving or sharpening it. But when a topic is not assigned, students should formulate a question and then turn it into a title.

Gathering Necessary Information

Descriptive essay topics, whether they are about a person, a thing, a place, or an event, require the gathering of the necessary information. The data is the backbone of the prose and must be procured and vetted before setting out to write. Depending on the topic, scope, and reach of the essay, all the researched material should be in one accessible place. Many writers believe that they can write solid descriptive essays solely through the depth of their imagination. This could be true for highly-imaginative people but most students need something to start with, which is covered by the research. Writers can employ both online and real-life resources to fill in the gaps and replenish their arsenal for the write-up. Without doing this, it becomes tough for the students to continue writing and finishing a draft in time.

Creating An Outline - From Start To Finish

In addition to prior research and gathering of necessary data, creating an outline is also considered to be a mixed bag for writers. Some cherish it and consider it crucial for their process, whereas the rest scorn it and think of it as the death of creativity and spontaneity. For students in schools and colleges who are still learning the ropes of writing descriptive essays, it is best to outline before getting started. A lengthy outline provides a constant heading and a point of reference. Those who believe it is the death of creativity are wrong because the process of measuring and weighing options continue, from outlining and composing the first draft to finalizing the last draft. The virtues of outlining trump its vices, even if there are any!

Starting The Introduction With A Hook

The introduction of a descriptive essay is considered to be one of the most crucial parts of the essay. Even the opening of the introduction requires a section for itself. Many writers use the space to cement authority and interest for the readers through a hook. A hook is a literary device that can be a question, a bold statement or a claim, or a question directly asked by the readers. After laying down a perfect hook, the writer sets the stage for the context and details that are about to come in the main body. A thesis statement is also an essential part of the essay. It distills the main idea or the theme in a single or a couple of sentences. Naturally, it comes at the end of the introduction to foreshadow the content as well as the transition to the body.

Detailing Elements In The Essay Body

The body of a descriptive essay is the meat and bones of the essay. It covers the bulk of the write-up in terms of word count and paragraphs. That’s why almost all the essential elements of a descriptive essay are at play in this section. The most common are four which include vivid details, figurative language, sensory details, and rigid structure. The vivid details start to unfold from the introduction and transition well into the main body. However, figurative language and sensory details can connect the dots for the readers because, without them, it is hard to imagine “seeing” or “feeling” the subject under consideration. In a standard format, the main body occupies three paragraphs of description and deliberation. There is no shortage of words for the writer but he should still make every word count.

Summarizing Main Points In The Conclusion

After the main body of the essay, the conclusion comes into the picture. Many students make the mistake of ignoring its importance and close off their essays with half-baked ideas and phrases. This can be disastrous for the final score of the essay because many readers will read and remember this part, instead of the introduction and the main body. However, they should put considerable effort and time into composing the closing or conclusion of the essay. The idea here is to summarize the main points of the body and introduction and reiterate them with vigor and diligence. New ideas or solutions to the problems that are discussed in the body should not get a place in the conclusion. Students should aim for catchy one-liners to finish off the essay because it will make it memorable and do its job.

Proofreading And Editing The Draft

Simply churning out words in the first draft is never enough for the readers as well as for the writers. No matter how much care and planning you have put into the first draft, there will be mistakes and inconsistencies of both grammatical and syntactical nature. This is where proofreading and editing come into the picture. 

Even seasoned writers go through multiple proofing and editing sessions before they submit their work to publishers. This way, they can make sure that there are no grammatical or other errors in the content. These days, there are online tools, both paid and free, that can help writers with these issues. The two most common tools are Grammarly and Hemingway Editor. The former can detect grammatical and structural mistakes in the sentences whereas the latter can identify longer sentences, point out weak verbs, and put check the number of adverbs in content.

What are the four essential elements of a descriptive essay?

The four essential elements of a descriptive essay are as follows:

• Vivid details paint a picture
• Figurative language such as similes, metaphors, analogies, etc
• Rigid structure
• The specific organization of the content

How is descriptive writing different from narrative writing?

Descriptive writing is focused on the physical and metaphysical aspects of the subject under consideration. On the other hand, the narrative essay is often about a personal experience or incident that had lasting effects on the writer and the succeeding course of events.

How do essay writing services work?

Essay writing services are quite straightforward; all you need to do is submit the required instructions, make a secure payment, and hit the submit button. You will soon get your accomplished task within the deadline.

Why is choosing a topic the first important step in writing a descriptive essay?

Choosing a topic is just like choosing a destination before the journey. You cannot even get started without a specific essay topic, let alone write and finish it. That’s why it is considered to be the most important step in writing a descriptive essay. Also, turning a topic into a title can provide the content with much-needed focus.

What is the process of writing a good descriptive paragraph?

The process of writing a good descriptive essay is given in the following section:

• Choosing a topic and turning it into a title
• Research and outlining
• Writing the first draft
• Proofreading and editing
• Finalizing the draft before submitting

How can you define the primary motive of descriptive writing?

The purpose or the primary motive of writing a descriptive essay is to entertain the readers and let them experience the intricacies of the subject through the power of prose. By relying on sensory details and figurative language, writers can make the subject alive for the readers, thus fulfilling the motive behind descriptive writing.

Writing Better To Score Better

The quest to  write better descriptive essays  does not stop anywhere. Whenever you are finished mastering a craft, there is always something new and novel on the horizon. In this blog post, we have chalked out the whole pathway of writing great descriptive essays for students in schools and colleges. The guidelines are easy to follow and have examples to help novice writers make better sense of the milestones. All six milestones are important and when done superbly, they can help a writer connect the dots properly for the readers. The journey to make subjects of descriptive essays come alive on a paper starts here!

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Essay Papers Writing Online

A comprehensive guide to essay writing.

Essay writing is a crucial skill that students need to master in order to succeed academically. Whether you’re a high school student working on a history paper or a college student tackling a critical analysis essay, having a solid understanding of the essay writing process is essential.

In this comprehensive guide, we’ll explore the essential tips and tricks that will help you improve your essay writing skills. From generating ideas and organizing your thoughts to crafting a strong thesis statement and polishing your final draft, we’ve got you covered.

Not only that, but we’ll also provide you with useful templates that you can use as a framework for your essays. These templates will help you structure your writing, stay focused on your main argument, and ensure that your essay flows smoothly from one point to the next.

The Ultimate Essay Writing Guides

Essay writing can be a challenging task for many students, but with the right guidance and tips, you can improve your writing skills and produce high-quality essays. In this ultimate guide, we will provide you with valuable advice, tricks, and templates to help you excel in your essay writing endeavors.

1. Understand the Prompt: Before you start writing your essay, make sure you fully understand the prompt or question. Analyze the requirements and key points that need to be addressed in your essay.

2. Create an Outline: Organize your ideas and thoughts by creating a detailed outline for your essay. This will help you structure your arguments and ensure a logical flow of information.

3. Research Thoroughly: Conduct extensive research on your topic to gather relevant information and evidence to support your arguments. Use credible sources and cite them properly in your essay.

4. Write Clearly and Concisely: Avoid using jargon or complex language in your essay. Write in a clear and concise manner to convey your ideas effectively to the reader.

5. Proofread and Edit: Before submitting your essay, make sure to proofread and edit it carefully. Check for grammatical errors, spelling mistakes, and ensure that your essay flows cohesively.

By following these ultimate essay writing guides, you can enhance your writing skills and produce outstanding essays that will impress your instructors and peers. Practice regularly and seek feedback to continuously improve your writing abilities.

Tips for Crafting an A+ Essay

1. Understand the Assignment: Before you start writing, make sure you fully understand the assignment guidelines and requirements. If you have any doubts, clarify them with your instructor.

2. Conduct Thorough Research: Gather relevant sources and information to support your arguments. Make sure to cite your sources properly and use credible sources.

3. Create a Strong Thesis Statement: Your thesis statement should clearly outline the main point of your essay and guide your readers on what to expect.

4. Organize Your Ideas: Create an outline to organize your thoughts and ensure a logical flow of ideas in your essay.

5. Write Clearly and Concisely: Use clear, concise language and avoid unnecessary jargon or complex sentences. Be direct and to the point.

6. Revise and Edit: Always proofread your essay for grammar and spelling errors. Revise your work to ensure coherence and clarity.

7. Seek Feedback: Ask a peer or instructor to review your essay and provide constructive feedback for improvement.

8. Use Proper Formatting: Follow the formatting guidelines provided by your instructor, such as font size, margins, and citation style.

9. Stay Focused: Keep your essay focused on the main topic and avoid going off on tangents. Stick to your thesis statement.

10. Practice, Practice, Practice: The more you practice writing essays, the better you will get at it. Keep practicing and refining your writing skills.

Tricks to Improve Your Writing Skills

Improving your writing skills can be a challenging but rewarding process. Here are some tricks to help you become a better writer:

1. Read widely: Reading a variety of genres and styles can help you develop your own voice and writing style.

2. Practice regularly: The more you write, the better you will become. Set aside time each day to practice writing.

3. Get feedback: Share your writing with others and ask for constructive criticism. Feedback can help you identify areas for improvement.

4. Study grammar and punctuation: Good writing requires a solid understanding of grammar and punctuation rules. Take the time to study and practice these essential skills.

5. Edit and revise: Writing is a process, and editing is an important part of that process. Take the time to edit and revise your work to improve clarity and coherence.

6. Experiment with different writing techniques: Try experimenting with different writing techniques, such as using metaphors, similes, or descriptive language, to enhance your writing.

7. Stay inspired: Find inspiration in the world around you. Whether it’s nature, art, or literature, draw inspiration from your surroundings to fuel your writing.

By following these tricks and practicing regularly, you can improve your writing skills and become a more confident and effective writer.

Step-by-Step Essay Writing Templates

When it comes to writing an essay, having a clear and structured template can be incredibly helpful. Here are some step-by-step essay writing templates that you can use to guide you through the process:

• Introduction: Start your essay with a hook to grab the reader’s attention. Provide some background information on the topic and end with a thesis statement that outlines the main argument of your essay.
• Body Paragraphs: Each body paragraph should focus on a single point that supports your thesis. Start with a topic sentence that introduces the main idea of the paragraph, provide evidence to support your point, and then analyze the evidence to show how it relates back to your thesis.
• Conclusion: Summarize the main points of your essay and restate your thesis in a new way. Avoid introducing new information in the conclusion and instead focus on tying together all the points you have made throughout the essay.

Expert Advice for Writing Top-Notch Essays

When it comes to writing a top-notch essay, it’s essential to follow expert advice to ensure your work stands out. Here are some key tips to help you elevate your writing:

1. Start with a strong thesis statement that clearly outlines your main argument.

2. Conduct thorough research to support your points with credible sources.

3. Organize your thoughts logically and ensure your essay flows smoothly from one point to the next.

4. Use a variety of sentence structures and vocabulary to keep your writing engaging.

5. Proofread and edit your essay carefully to eliminate errors and refine your arguments.

By following these expert tips, you can take your essay writing skills to the next level and produce work that is both informative and compelling.

Resources to Enhance Your Essay Writing Process

When it comes to improving your essay writing skills, there are a variety of resources available to help you enhance your process. Here are some valuable resources that can aid you in becoming a more effective and efficient writer:

• Writing Guides: There are countless writing guides and books that offer tips, tricks, and strategies for improving your writing skills. Whether you’re looking to enhance your grammar, structure, or argumentation, these guides can provide valuable insights.
• Online Writing Communities: Joining online writing communities can be a great way to connect with other writers, receive feedback on your work, and engage in writing challenges and prompts. Websites like Writing.com and Wattpad are popular platforms for writers to share their work and receive critiques.
• Writing Workshops and Courses: Participating in writing workshops and courses can help you hone your craft and develop your writing skills. Whether you prefer in-person workshops or online courses, there are many options available to suit your needs and schedule.
• Writing Apps and Tools: Utilizing writing apps and tools can streamline your writing process and help you stay organized. Tools like Grammarly can assist with grammar and spelling checks, while apps like Scrivener can help you organize your research and ideas.
• Libraries and Writing Centers: Visiting your local library or university writing center can provide access to valuable resources, such as writing guides, research materials, and writing tutors who can offer personalized feedback and support.

By taking advantage of these resources, you can enhance your essay writing process and become a more skilled and confident writer.

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Descriptive Writing | A Guide to Enhance Your Grades

10 May 2024

Table of Contents

What is Descriptive Writing? A Comprehensive Guide

What is the structure of amazing descriptive writing, learn about the descriptive writing techniques.

• List of 20+ Trending Descriptive Writing Ideas for Students

Difference between Descriptive and Narrative Writing

Get help with descriptive writing from us today.

Are you stuck with a task given by your professors about  descriptive writing  that seems to be as challenging as climbing a slippery hill? Do you want a perfect guide that can bring you out of this situation and deliver your document before the deadline? Worry not! So, for this, you first need to read about the meaning, structure, techniques, and trending topics. 

Moreover, do you know where you will get this in a particular write-up? In this blog, you will get an expert handbook that covers all the significant details of this term that can be a key to scoring good academic grades. So, let us begin with reading:  What is descriptive writing?

Descriptive writing means sharing an intense description of a specific place or concept rather than describing it as a whole. In this, we talk about any particular event in detail that requires you to be creative with words. Do you know why? It is crucial for everyone who possesses such a skill to impress your reader. But, do you know the five senses that make your paragraph more effective? Let's learn this.

• See:  What can you see?
• Hear:  What can you hear?
• Smell:  What can you smell?
• Touch:  What can you feel? It includes what you can emotionally and physically feel.
• Taste:  What can you taste?

Hopefully, you have understood the meaning and five senses of writing. Do you know where most of the students face challenges? It is in the format of this writing, and they try to seek  online coursework help .   Thus, let's move ahead and learn the perfect structure of descriptive writing.

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It is crucial to understand the basics of  how to write descriptive writing . So, keep your eyes rolling at the three parts of a piece of writing, from an opening to a body and an engaging ending.

Introduction

You must begin with a captivating start to your document that can be eye-catching for your reader. Therefore, at the start, you should describe where, when, and to whom the event took place. In the paragraph, we connect the audience with the information they will read.

Body Paragraph

Next, you divide the body paragraph into three parts. Your middle part of the writing should give the reader a clear picture of the situation that occurs. Thus, you must use figurative language and examples to enhance the imagery.

End the writing with a powerful concluding paragraph. But ensure that you are not adding any new information to this part. It should be strong enough to leave a lasting impression on your reader.

Therefore, you must have understood the perfect  descriptive writing structure . But, with this, it is crucial to learn the techniques, so move ahead to the next part and read about them.

Choose a Specific Topic

The utmost thing is to choose a wise topic that fits best with your interests and is clear to you about what to write about. Moreover, many students directly select an idea before doing good research. It means they cannot collect sufficient information on this.

Use Descriptive Terms

In descriptive writing, you need to use descriptive terms. It will help you draft a precise description in your writing. Thus, are you afraid of the hiccups in your paper? Do not fret! To solve this problem, you can connect with us and seek  assignment writing help .

Prepare an Outline

Collect the crucial information that you found helpful while researching. Try to prepare a blueprint before you work on the writing part to ensure the flow of the writing. Therefore, when you begin drafting your paper, if you do not have a good plan about what to add, there is a high chance of getting stuck.

Schedule Details in Sequence

When you work on descriptive writing, you must ensure that your writing flow is in sequence and organized; otherwise, your reader will not be able to catch your thoughts in a single go. If you face an issue, you can also check our reviews and get help from our experts any day.

Navigate Your Vocabulary

It is essential to use figurative vocabulary like similes and metaphors in your writing. For instance, he runs as fast as lightning, she speaks as sweet as honey, or this task is as challenging as a nut to crack. So, this type of writing will help you keep your reader engaged and curious to know more about what you have added.

So, before writing the descriptive write-up, remember these techniques to use in it to make it effective. But why think about writing first? Because many scholars will face challenges in the first step, which is to select a topic. So, if you also face such issues, read the next section and clear your queries.

List of 20+ Trending Descriptive Writing Ideas for Students

Are you unable to select trending  descriptive writing examples ? Do not worry! Here, you will find a list of the 10+ latest ideas that you can find interesting. So, have a glance at the list below and choose one for your paper.

• What is your biggest life-changing moment?
• My first public speech: A rethink of how I felt inside
• My favorite sports team's jersey
• The most beautiful place you have ever visited with your friends
• The relationship between musical tones and productivity
• Subtle expressions in dance: body language and emotion
• An unforgettable moment of wisdom with your favorite teacher
• Analyze the impact of television on modern culture.
• My most treasured possession
• Describe the effect of a historical invention on society.
• Explore and study the historical marvels: artifacts reveal tales
• Dive in and share your thoughts on a mysterious world of wild street cats.
• Unraveling the nostalgia of childhood hide-and-seek games
• My favorite decoration in my room
• My favorite outfit to wear while hanging out with friends
• The next book I want to read
• A piece of clothing that makes me feel beautiful
• A book that changed my life
• An item that is very special to me
• An item that brings back a fond memory for me
• The best painting I have ever seen
• My favorite book series

I loved the list and found the best  descriptive writing prompts . But, do you know what I find most challenging to understand is how descriptive writing differs from narrative writing? So, are you also waiting to know the difference? Move ahead to the next part and learn about it. 

Many of the students think that descriptive and narrative writing are the same, but they are not. Do you want to know the difference between these terms? Well, this part fits best with your query. Here, you will find a table below about how these writings differ from each other.

Now, you must have gotten clarification about the  difference between descriptive and narrative writing . But do you need help with writing your paper? Read the next part and understand how our experts can help you with it.

Meeting Your Descriptive Writing Deadline is Troubling You?

Worry Not and Reach to Our Experts and Get Your Paper Quickly

Oh no, after reading this amazing write-up, you are still wondering, Why is it not your cup of tea? Therefore, you need a perfectionist in this field who can provide you with a perfect write-up that meets your expectations. So, we have a team with years of expertise that deals with solving all the queries that a student faces with their academics. Not only this, but you can also use our plagiarism and  free grammar checker   tool to keep your document error-free and 100% unique. 

Thus, do not hesitate; our professionals are full of talent and have the expertise to deliver a professor-friendly paper. Hence, get help from them and see your academic graph rise to the next level. So, go now and grab this opportunity. Read more -  A Quick Guide on APA Referencing Style | Types & References

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