narrative essay proposal example

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• How to write a narrative essay | Example & tips

How to Write a Narrative Essay | Example & Tips

Published on July 24, 2020 by Jack Caulfield . Revised on July 23, 2023.

A narrative essay tells a story. In most cases, this is a story about a personal experience you had. This type of essay , along with the descriptive essay , allows you to get personal and creative, unlike most academic writing .

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Table of contents

What is a narrative essay for, choosing a topic, interactive example of a narrative essay, other interesting articles, frequently asked questions about narrative essays.

When assigned a narrative essay, you might find yourself wondering: Why does my teacher want to hear this story? Topics for narrative essays can range from the important to the trivial. Usually the point is not so much the story itself, but the way you tell it.

A narrative essay is a way of testing your ability to tell a story in a clear and interesting way. You’re expected to think about where your story begins and ends, and how to convey it with eye-catching language and a satisfying pace.

These skills are quite different from those needed for formal academic writing. For instance, in a narrative essay the use of the first person (“I”) is encouraged, as is the use of figurative language, dialogue, and suspense.

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Narrative essay assignments vary widely in the amount of direction you’re given about your topic. You may be assigned quite a specific topic or choice of topics to work with.

• Write a story about your first day of school.
• Write a story about your favorite holiday destination.

You may also be given prompts that leave you a much wider choice of topic.

• Write about an experience where you learned something about yourself.
• Write about an achievement you are proud of. What did you accomplish, and how?

In these cases, you might have to think harder to decide what story you want to tell. The best kind of story for a narrative essay is one you can use to talk about a particular theme or lesson, or that takes a surprising turn somewhere along the way.

For example, a trip where everything went according to plan makes for a less interesting story than one where something unexpected happened that you then had to respond to. Choose an experience that might surprise the reader or teach them something.

Narrative essays in college applications

When applying for college , you might be asked to write a narrative essay that expresses something about your personal qualities.

For example, this application prompt from Common App requires you to respond with a narrative essay.

In this context, choose a story that is not only interesting but also expresses the qualities the prompt is looking for—here, resilience and the ability to learn from failure—and frame the story in a way that emphasizes these qualities.

An example of a short narrative essay, responding to the prompt “Write about an experience where you learned something about yourself,” is shown below.

Hover over different parts of the text to see how the structure works.

Since elementary school, I have always favored subjects like science and math over the humanities. My instinct was always to think of these subjects as more solid and serious than classes like English. If there was no right answer, I thought, why bother? But recently I had an experience that taught me my academic interests are more flexible than I had thought: I took my first philosophy class.

Before I entered the classroom, I was skeptical. I waited outside with the other students and wondered what exactly philosophy would involve—I really had no idea. I imagined something pretty abstract: long, stilted conversations pondering the meaning of life. But what I got was something quite different.

A young man in jeans, Mr. Jones—“but you can call me Rob”—was far from the white-haired, buttoned-up old man I had half-expected. And rather than pulling us into pedantic arguments about obscure philosophical points, Rob engaged us on our level. To talk free will, we looked at our own choices. To talk ethics, we looked at dilemmas we had faced ourselves. By the end of class, I’d discovered that questions with no right answer can turn out to be the most interesting ones.

The experience has taught me to look at things a little more “philosophically”—and not just because it was a philosophy class! I learned that if I let go of my preconceptions, I can actually get a lot out of subjects I was previously dismissive of. The class taught me—in more ways than one—to look at things with an open mind.

If you want to know more about AI tools , college essays , or fallacies make sure to check out some of our other articles with explanations and examples or go directly to our tools!

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If you’re not given much guidance on what your narrative essay should be about, consider the context and scope of the assignment. What kind of story is relevant, interesting, and possible to tell within the word count?

The best kind of story for a narrative essay is one you can use to reflect on a particular theme or lesson, or that takes a surprising turn somewhere along the way.

Don’t worry too much if your topic seems unoriginal. The point of a narrative essay is how you tell the story and the point you make with it, not the subject of the story itself.

Narrative essays are usually assigned as writing exercises at high school or in university composition classes. They may also form part of a university application.

When you are prompted to tell a story about your own life or experiences, a narrative essay is usually the right response.

The key difference is that a narrative essay is designed to tell a complete story, while a descriptive essay is meant to convey an intense description of a particular place, object, or concept.

Narrative and descriptive essays both allow you to write more personally and creatively than other kinds of essays , and similar writing skills can apply to both.

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Grant Seekers Toolkit Step 5: Write the Proposal Narrative

So, you've gathered information about the project you want to propose to a foundation, you've researched the foundation, and you've determined that there is a reasonable fit.

You have made first contact with the foundation, either by phone, e-mail, a letter of inquiry, or a meeting. You have received the go-ahead from the foundation to submit a full proposal – and perhaps you’ve gathered some additional useful information about, for instance, key points to emphasize. Now, you’re ready to write.

But, before you start:

• Review (again) the foundation’s funding goals to refresh for yourself what the foundation’s primary commitments are and the language it uses to express them.
• Review (again) the foundation’s guidelines to see if there are specific questions you need to answer in the narrative or special formatting you need to use. Some foundations require that you use an application form or create a cover sheet according to their specifications. Others ask for particular pieces of information in the body of the narrative. Foundations also typically ask for a series of attachments to the narrative .
• Review the information that you gathered about the project you are about to propose. As you write the proposal, you are likely to come up with additional questions that you need to answer about the project.
• Some foundations in some states are willing to receive Common Grant Application Forms. The Foundation Center provides a list on their website . These forms are intended to save you work, but note that many foundations still ask for letters of inquiry first, or for supplemental information to be attached to the completed form.

O.K., now you’re ready.

Most foundations publish guidelines that outline the information they want in a proposal. Some guidelines are very specific and others are quite general – but most request the same basic information. When you write a grant proposal, you will draw heavily on information you have already gathered about your organization and your proposed project. Refer to the sections What to Know About Your Station   and Understand Your Project .

Proposal narratives are typically 5-10 pages in length. Some foundations require shorter proposals and a few expect substantially longer ones. The narrative of your proposal is best organized in sections. You can create whatever sections you like, but the ones described below work well.

Introduction

Some people like to open their proposal narrative with a quotation and/or a short paragraph that lays out the issue about to be addressed. Others like to get straight to the point with a simple summary of the proposed project, including ask amount. If you choose the first approach, be sure to still include a sentence or two that states the project and the amount requested.

Organizational Description

You will need to provide a short (1-3 paragraph) description of your station(s). This section provides you with a valuable opportunity to do three things:

• Describe the work and programs of your station;
• Distinguish your station and its work from other media;
• Enlarge the funder’s view of you from “radio station” to “community asset.”

Be sure to include your station’s mission, when you were founded, your service area and listenership, and a brief description of the programming you offer. You can indicate whether you are affiliated with a university, any training opportunities you offer, any distinctive constituencies you serve, and the level of involvement by volunteers in your organization. This is a good place to note some of your station’s major accomplishments and to provide a description of the ways in which your public service extends beyond your on-air programming.

Project Description

You will use this section to provide a concrete description of the project you are proposing. Remember as you do this that foundations are far more interested in the public or community impact of the project than they are in the impact on your station. Even in cases where you are asking for infrastructural or capacity-building support, the end result will be to strengthen and expand your service to listeners.

It can be helpful to open this section with some discussion of the need for the project. Given the nature of public radio, you may sometimes find that you want to propose a project that grows more out of an opportunity than a need. This is fine. Not every project has to respond to a problem; funders will still be interested in projects that proactively seize opportunities to expand your service or reach.

• As you write this section, use data when appropriate to support your position. For instance:
• You might distinguish your service by providing data on media conglomeration trends.
• Or you might set up a request for a music education program by providing data about arts education in schools.
• Or you might position a request for local news production support by including data about local news trends in mainstream media.

Most foundation representatives will probably be familiar with public radio, but you should not assume that they know anything about trends and issues within the media industry. Data can help them develop an understanding of the issues faced by public radio and the impact of your service.

Once you have laid out the need or opportunity at hand, you will describe what you will do and how you will do it . Be as specific as you realistically can be. For instance, if you are proposing new coverage, give some examples of what it might be and how much will be produced. If you are proposing an educational project, indicate whether you will be working with specific schools and/or other collaborators. If you are planning to expand a local talk show, indicate the elements that will change and why.

Work Plan/Project Implementation

Once you have outlined what your project is, you will need to describe specifically the activities that will be part of its implementation. It is very helpful to include a work plan or series of benchmarks for the project. Many grant applicants have not thought this far, and a work plan can show the foundation that you have planned how you will implement the project. If you have specific dates nailed down, use them. If not, you can develop a work plan or list of benchmarks using an approximate timeline (e.g., 1 st quarter, 2 nd quarter, etc.).

If you have already conducted research related to the project, launched a pilot, or done anything else that lays the groundwork for your proposed project, be sure to include this information.

You should also note who is going to implement the project. It is helpful to attach a one-page list providing short bios of the key project personnel (staff or volunteer).

Project Impact and Evaluation

Foundations are typically very interested in the outcomes of the grants they make. You should indicate what the impact of the project will be, using as much data as you have available. The fundamental question is: What will change/improve as a result of this project? Answering this question can be a little challenging for public radio – as for other organizations that educate and inform – because it can be hard to measure the impact of ideas, which is where the most profound impact often occurs.

• However, there are still a variety of important ways to measure success. Depending on the nature of your proposed project, you might:
• Use Nielsen reports to assess growth in listenership;
• Conduct focus groups;
• Create an online evaluation survey;
• Distribute evaluation surveys at a community event that you host;
• Solicit and collect listener feedback.
• You should be as specific as you can be about when and how you will evaluate the project and about what you will do with the information you gather.

The Need for Support

In this section, you will underscore why you need grant support at this time. You should reiterate how your project will benefit the community and indicate how it will help advance the foundation’s specific interests. You can also use this section to talk about the broader funding environment. For example, if you are making a request for general support, you might use this section to underscore why general funding is essential to your organization in a funding environment that favors project-specific support.

However you decide to use this section, be sure to include:

• The total budget amount for your project;
• Your organization’s total budget ;
• The amount you are requesting ;
• Information on other sources of funding : While a (small) handful of funders like to provide sole project support, the overwhelming majority prefer to share the load with others. You should note any funders who have already committed funding or where requests are pending. You should also list other sources of revenue for the project (in-kind support, fee-for-service). Funders want to see that you have plans about how to sustain the project past the termination of their grant, if the project is meant to be ongoing. (Any earned and contributed income, including pending grant requests, will also be outlined on your attached project budget.)

A succinct concluding paragraph can underscore why your particular project is important, how it fits the funder’s mission and goals, and the impact it will have. This is a good place to be inspiring, to point to some of the hope behind the benchmarks and work plans and budgets. Much of what public radio is trying to do is to encourage us to think beyond ourselves, to imagine new possibilities, and to stir a love of ideas and art. Part of the reason any donor gives is emotional; it’s fine to soar a little bit.

Some Tips for Writing a Successful Proposal

• Be sure to follow the funder’s guidelines. If they want specific topics addressed, do so explicitly.
• If you can manage it, include some white space in your document. Proposals can easily become very dense. You can make your proposal more readable by increasing the size of your margins, adding spaces after headings, using bullet points, etc.
• Quotations can spark up a proposal either by placing your project in a larger context or, in the case of listener comments, by personalizing the impact of your work.
• Avoid “we believe” or “we hope” statements. In general, these are less compelling than statements that are based on research and careful planning.
• Proofread! Typos, grammatical mistakes, and punctuation errors are unprofessional and annoying. Find someone else who can also proofread for you.
• Watch for chronic repetition. It’s very easy to use the same words and phrases over and over and over. Having another person read and edit the proposal can help you avoid bad habits.
• Match your formatting. If you have some headings in bold, make sure the corresponding headings are also in bold.
• If a foundation says they prefer electonic submissions, submit electonrically! If you are senind paper, don’t staple your proposal or put it in a fancy cover. This drives foundations nuts, mainly because they often make multiple copies of proposals. Use a binder clip. Make sure you have numbered all of the pages.

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Writing an essay proposal can seem daunting, especially if it’s your first time. This guide is designed to simplify the process, helping you understand what an essay proposal is, its purpose, and its importance for academic success. You’ll be prepared to create a standout proposal by grasping these concepts.

What is an Essay Proposal?

An essay proposal is an academic writing that outlines an essay’s topic, purpose, and structure before you start writing it. It acts as a blueprint for your writing, detailing what you intend to cover and how you plan to approach the topic. It summarizes the main argument, the significance of the topic, and the writing perspective, including sources and methods. In an essay proposal, you can structure your thoughts and convey your ideas clearly to your instructor or academic committee.

3 Key Purposes of an Essay Proposal

An essay proposal describes your essay’s main idea and how you plan to develop it. The purpose of an essay proposal includes:

Setting a Clear Path:

It involves defining the scope and objectives of the essay to create a focused and coherent structure. Prior to essay development, outlining specific goals, research questions, and the overall approach is a must. It becomes your roadmap for the writing. This clarity helps to organize thoughts and select relevant sources. It ensures your arguments and analysis align with your initial intentions. A well-defined path not only streamlines the writing process but also facilitates a more effective and targeted topic exploration.

Gaining Approval:

Gaining approval while writing an essay proposal ensures that your planned approach, topic, and research objectives meet the expectations and requirements. A well-structured proposal sketches your intended research and argument, allowing for early feedback and validation. This process helps refine your ideas, address potential issues, and confirm the essay aligns with academic standards and objectives. It ultimately sets a solid foundation for your subsequent work.

Demonstrating Feasibility :

Show that the proposed essay is practical and achievable within the given constraints. Sketch out a clear plan for how the essay will be conducted. It ensures that the author can effectively explore the topic and complete the project within the required timeframe with available resources. Showing feasibility also reassures reviewers or advisors that the proposed work is well-thought-out and manageable, increasing the likelihood of approval.

Difference Between a Thesis and an Essay Proposal

Understanding the difference between a thesis and an essay proposal is crucial. Both of these are academic writing. However, these two styles of academic writing have different purposes. Let’s explore the following factors to understand the differences clearly:

• Thesis : A comprehensive document that presents and supports a specific research question or hypothesis, serving as the final written product of a research project. It contributes new knowledge to a specific academic field, involving a clear argument supported with evidence and demonstrating a deep subject understanding.
• Essay Proposal : A preliminary document that outlines the research topic, objectives, and methodology, seeking approval before proceeding with the full essay. It provides a plan for how the research will be conducted and demonstrates the feasibility and relevance of the proposed Study.
• Thesis : The content of a thesis includes a comprehensive literature review, detailed methodology, data analysis, results, and a discussion of findings. It presents original research, supporting arguments, and conclusions contributing to the academic field.
• Essay Proposal : Includes an overview of the research topic, the objectives and questions, and a proposed methodology. Contains a brief review of relevant literature to justify the research. It provides a plan for structuring the essay and the needed resources.

Length and Depth :

• Thesis : Often spanning 50 to several hundred pages, a thesis provides a comprehensive review of the research topic. The depth of a thesis reflects the detailed and original contribution it makes to the academic field.
• Essay Proposal : It is concise, ranging from a few pages to around ten pages, focusing on outlining the research plan rather than a detailed analysis. The length and depth are designed to present a focused and manageable plan for the proposed Study.

Stage in Research Process :

• Thesis : The final stage of the research process includes extensive data collection, analysis, and synthesis. It presents the research findings, arguments, and conclusions. Involves rigorous review and defense, showcasing the culmination of the research work.
• Essay Proposal : An essay proposal is an early stage in the research process. It sets the groundwork for the research. This stage involves formulating the research questions, and ensures the proposed Study is feasible and relevant.

Structure :

• Thesis : The structure includes an introduction, literature review, methodology, results, discussion, and conclusion. Every section provides detailed information, analysis, and interpretation. Ensures a logical flow and detailed presentation of the research.
• Essay Proposal : Consists of a brief introduction to the research topic, a clear statement of objectives and research questions, and a proposed methodology. It establishes the Study’s significance and relevance other than outlining timeline considerations.
• Thesis : The thesis outcome contributes new insights. Demonstrates research, critical thinking, and analytical expertise. The successful defense of a thesis often results in the awarding of an advanced degree and recognition within the academic community.
• Essay Proposal : The outcome secures approval and support for the research project. It helps refine the research plan and ensures the proposed Study is feasible and relevant. Successful approval leads to in-depth research and writing.  
• Thesis : A thesis focuses on conducting original, in-depth research that addresses specific research questions or hypotheses. It contributes new knowledge. Explores and analyzes the chosen topic other than providing a detailed and evidence-based argument.
• Essay Proposal : This proposal outlines the proposed research, including objectives and methods, to justify the need for the Study. It demonstrates feasibility and relevance. Also helps refine the research questions and establish a structured plan for the full essay.

Feedback, Revisions, and Approval :

• Thesis : Requires formal approval and defense, often involving a committee review and oral presentation of findings. Multiple feedback and revisions are done based on detailed reviews by advisors or committee members.
• Essay Proposal : Requires initial approval from an instructor or committee to proceed with the research and writing before feedback for refinement. It involves initial feedback and minor revisions before proceeding with the full research and writing.

Importance of Convincing the Academic Committee

Convincing the academic committee is essential because they decide whether you can proceed with your proposed topic. Here’s why it matters:

Approval: Convincing the academic committee to approve the Study involves presenting a clear and well-organized research proposal that outlines its significance and feasibility. Demonstrating a thorough understanding of the topic and a solid plan helps writers gain your instructor or committee’s approval.

Support: You need to articulate the value and originality of your research, highlighting how it addresses important questions or gaps in the field. A detailed plan and preliminary evidence of your topic’s relevance will strengthen your case other than securing the committee’s backing or endorsement.

Credibility: Convincing the academic committee of your credibility involves presenting a well-researched and meticulously detailed proposal, demonstrating a thorough understanding of the topic. Highlighting your academic qualifications, previous research experience, and the rigor of your proposed methodology reinforces your capability to conduct the Study successfully.

Potential Impact : Convincing the academic committee of the potential impact involves clearly articulating how your research will contribute to the field, address significant gaps, or solve relevant problems. Emphasize the broader implications of your Study, such as its potential to influence policy, practice, or future research directions.

Examples of Different Types of Essay Proposals

Different types of proposals serve various academic and professional purposes. By familiarizing yourself with these different types, you can customize your proposal to meet the specific requirements and expectations of your academic or professional discipline. Here are some examples:

1. Analytical Essay Proposal : Outline a plan to analyze a specific theme, character, or concept in a literary work.

2. Argumentative Essay Proposal : Propose a topic where you will argue for or against a particular issue, providing evidence and reasoning.

3. Compare and Contrast Essay Proposal : Detail how you will compare and contrast two subjects, such as two literary works, theories, or historical events.

4. Cause and Effect Essay Proposal : Explain how you will explore the causes and effects of a specific event, action, or phenomenon.

5. Descriptive Essay Proposal : Plan to describe a particular subject in detail, focusing on sensory experiences and vivid imagery.

6. Expository Essay Proposal : Outline how you will explain a concept, process, or idea, providing clear and concise information.

7. Narrative Essay Proposal : Propose a plan to tell a story or recount an experience, focusing on narrative techniques and personal reflection.

8. Persuasive Essay Proposal : Detail how you will persuade your audience to adopt a particular viewpoint or take a specific action.

9. Definition Essay Proposal : Explain how you will explore and define a complex term or concept, providing various perspectives and interpretations.

10. Critical Essay Proposal : Plan to critique and evaluate a specific work, theory, or practice, offering a balanced analysis and supported arguments.

What to Include in an Essay Proposal

Crafting an essay proposal involves several crucial elements. These elements ensure your proposal is clear, convincing, and systematically organized. Here’s what to include:

Rationale for the Chosen Topic

The rationale explains why you have selected a particular topic. This section should:

Highlight Relevance: It emphasizes how the research topic addresses current issues or gaps, showcasing its significance. Illustrates the potential impact and applicability of the Study, making a compelling case for why the research is timely and necessary.

Show Topic Importance: Underscores its significance in addressing key issues or advancing understanding within the field. It demonstrates how the research will contribute valuable insights, potentially influencing future studies or practical applications.

Demonstrate Interest: Showing interest involves genuine enthusiasm and commitment to the research topic. This passion highlights your motivation and readiness to engage deeply with the subject matter, which can strengthen the proposal’s appeal.

You can take the example of your essay focusing on climate change. Here, you could describe how it impacts global ecosystems and emphasize the urgency of studying this issue.

Review of Related Literature (Literature Review)

A literature review shows you have researched your topic and understand the existing work in the field. This section should:

Summarize Key Sources: This section highlights the most relevant and influential research that builds the foundation of your academic paper. It offers a thorough understanding and shows how your work will build upon these established studies.

Identify Gaps: Identifying gaps involves pinpointing areas where existing research is lacking or insufficient. This section highlights the necessity of your Study and shows how it will contribute new insights or address overlooked issues in the field.

Establish Context: It provides background information to situate your research within the broader academic or real-world landscape. Helps readers understand the relevance and significance of your Study in terms of existing knowledge and ongoing discussions.

For example, if you are writing on renewable energy, you must include studies on solar and wind power and emphasize where more research is needed.

Outline of Intended Approach or Methodology

The methodology section outlines how you will conduct your research and write your essay. This part should:

Detail Your Plan: The details of your plan outline the research methods, timeline, and steps to complete the Study. This provides a clear roadmap of how you will achieve your objectives and ensures that your approach is well-organized and feasible.

Describe Methods: Describing methods involves explaining the research techniques and approaches you will use to gather and analyze data. It should clearly outline your methodological framework to demonstrate the rigor and feasibility of your Study.

Timeline and Resources: This section should summarize a realistic schedule for completing the research and identify the necessary resources. This ensures that the proposed Study is feasible and well-planned.

Use of Lists, Headings, and Visual Aids for Clarity

Organizing your proposal with lists, headings, and visual aids makes it easier to read and understand. Consider the following:

Bullet Points and Numbered Lists: This activity helps organize information clearly and concisely. This format enhances the readability of your essay proposals, making key points and steps easy for readers to follow and understand the topic.

Headings and Subheadings: Incorporating headings and subheadings helps structure the content, making it easier for readers to navigate different sections. It not only enhances clarity but also ensures each part is identified and logically connected.

Visual Aids: Including visual aids, such as charts, graphs, and diagrams, can effectively illustrate key points and data. These aids enhance your understanding by providing a clear and concise visual representation of complex information.

For example, a chart depicting the increase in global temperatures over the last century can visually bolster your argument on climate change. Integrating such elements into your essay proposal will enhance its thoroughness and persuasiveness, improving the likelihood of gaining approval.

Prewriting Stage of an Essay Proposal

Know Your Audience

Understanding who will read your essay proposal is crucial. Knowing your audience’s knowledge level helps you tailor your content effectively:

Assess Knowledge Level:

Assessing your knowledge level during the prewriting stage of an essay proposal involves evaluating your understanding of the topic and identifying gaps in your knowledge. This helps determine the scope of your research and guides you in gathering relevant information. By gauging your familiarity with the subject, you can ensure that your proposal is well-informed and addresses any necessary areas of Study.

Meet Expectations:

Meeting expectations during the prewriting stage of an essay proposal involves understanding and aligning with the requirements set by your instructor or academic committee. It includes adhering to guidelines regarding format, content, and research scope. Ensuring your proposal meets these criteria demonstrates that you are prepared and capable of producing a relevant and well-structured essay.

For example, if your audience consists of climate scientists, you can use technical jargon and assume familiarity with fundamental concepts. In contrast, for a general audience, you would need to provide explanations for these terms.

Research is a critical step that thoroughly reviews existing literature, theories, and data relevant to your chosen topic. It defines the scope of your Study by identifying key issues, gaps in knowledge, and current debates within the field. Through research, you ensure that your proposal is grounded in credible sources.

It supports your Study’s feasibility and indicates your understanding of the subject matter. This detailed groundwork is essential for crafting a well-informed proposal. It is poised to make a meaningful contribution to the academic discourse.

Gather Evidence:

It involves systematically collecting and reviewing relevant data, studies, and examples substantiating your research topic and objectives. It includes sourcing scholarly articles, empirical studies, and theoretical frameworks that align with your proposed Study.

By presenting credible and pertinent evidence, you establish a solid foundation for your proposal, demonstrating thorough preparation and a deep understanding of the subject. It reinforces the validity of your research questions other than illustrating your proposed Study’s potential impact and relevance.

Show Meticulous Work:

It shows careful attention to detail and thoroughness in every aspect of the proposal. Meticulous organization, accurate source citations, and thoughtfully addressing potential challenges showcase your commitment to high-quality research. Such diligence not only reflects your dedication to the project but also enhances the credibility and persuasive power of your proposal. It makes the essay proposal more compelling to reviewers and academic committees.

For example, if your essay focuses on renewable energy, incorporate data from recent studies on solar and wind power in addition to citing experts in the field to support your arguments.

Set an Issue

Clearly explaining the issue you intend to address is crucial as it establishes the foundation for your proposal and strengthens the impact of your argument.

Explain the Issue:

Explaining the issue in an essay proposal involves clearly articulating the specific problem or question your research aims to address. This section should provide context and background information, outlining why the issue is significant and relevant. By thoroughly explaining the issue, you set the stage for your research objectives and demonstrate the importance of your Study.

Establish Credibility:

Establishing credibility demonstrates your expertise and thorough understanding of the topic through well-researched evidence and authoritative sources. It includes citing reputable studies, showcasing a deep grasp of relevant theories, and presenting a clear methodology. By establishing your credibility, you assure the academic committee of the quality and reliability of your proposed research.

For example, if your topic is the effect of social media on mental health, include data indicating the increase in mental health issues among social media users and cite psychologists who have researched this phenomenon.

Define a Solution

Defining a solution in an essay proposal involves proposing a specific approach or strategy to address the identified issue or research question. This section should outline how your proposed solution will effectively resolve the problem and contribute to the field, demonstrating its practical and theoretical value.

Provide a Clear Solution:

Providing a clear solution in an essay proposal entails outlining a well-defined and actionable approach to address the issue at hand. This solution should be supported by evidence and reasoning, demonstrating its feasibility and effectiveness. By presenting a clear and structured solution, you show how your research will contribute to resolving the problem and advancing understanding in the field.

Align with Requirements:

Aligning with requirements in an essay proposal involves ensuring that your proposal meets your instructor’s specific guidelines and expectations. It includes adhering to formatting rules, addressing required components, and aligning with the scope and objectives. By carefully following these requirements, you show your ability to meet academic standards and enhance your proposal’s likelihood of acceptance.

For example, if you propose a new educational program to enhance literacy rates, detail the program’s structure, required resources, and anticipated outcomes. Ensure that your proposal adheres to any budgetary or time limitations.

Adhering to these steps during this prewriting stage establishes a solid foundation for your essay proposal. This thorough preparation guarantees that your proposal is well-structured, meticulously researched, and appropriately aligned with your audience’s requirements.

Proposal Essay Example

Undoubtedly, it is quite challenging to craft an essay proposal, but looking at examples can provide clear guidance. Here is an example that explains the components and methodology of an academic research study. This instance can serve you as a template for your own writing.

Example of an Essay Proposal for an Academic Research Study

Let’s consider a study titled “The Impact of Social Media on College Students’ Academic Performance.”

The focus of the Study:

The objective is to investigate how social media usage affects students’ academic outcomes. This involves assessing both positive and negative effects. It explores correlations between social media habits and academic performance other than identifying potential strategies to mitigate adverse impacts. The goal is to provide a comprehensive analysis that informs educational strategies and policy recommendations.

Research Question:

The research question explores the relationship between social media usage and academic outcomes among college students. Investigating how various aspects of social media engagement, such as time spent on platforms, types of content consumed, and interactions, affect students’ academic performance. Your essay proposal seeks to uncover both positive and negative impacts.

Methodology:

1. Participants: 

Sample Size: The sample size in the essay proposal methodology refers to the number of participants or data points selected to provide a representative and reliable basis for the Study’s analysis. Example: The Study was conducted on 200 college students from three different universities.

Selection Criteria: It includes factors such as academic standing, social media usage patterns, and demographic characteristics of college students to ensure a diverse and representative sample for analysis.

2. Data Collection:

Surveys: It creates a structured questionnaire to gather data on students’ social media usage habits, study routines, academic performance, and perceived impacts of social media. It questions the frequency and types of social media use, study habits, grades, and self-reported effects on academic performance.

Academic Records: Analyzes students’ grades, GPA, and course performance to assess any correlation with social media usage patterns. Academic records must be handled with confidentiality and consent, ensuring your analysis is ethical.

3. Analysis:

Statistical Methods: Analyze statistical data using quantitative methods to evaluate the relationship between social media usage and academic outcomes. Regression analysis, correlation coefficients, and t-tests can determine significant patterns or differences. Charts, graphs, and tables show how social media habits influence factors, offering a solid argument.

Software: Integrate SPSS, R, or Python can handle and interpret data. These tools can process large datasets, perform complex statistical tests, and generate visualizations to illustrate key findings. Offers accurate, efficient analysis and enhance the credibility of your research. It shows clear, data-driven insights into how social media usage affects academic performance.

How This Example Guides Your Proposal Writing

This example provides a clear framework for structuring your proposal:

Define Your Objective: It outlines the planned research, clearly presenting the topic, research questions, and methodology. It shows the study’s significance and feasibility, persuading professors of its value and the researcher’s capability to execute it effectively.

Specify Your Research Questions: Clearly summarize the key issues your study aims to address. It focuses on research, guides the methodology and analysis. Well-defined research questions also demonstrate the relevance and scope of your study to reviewers.

Detail Your Methodology: It explains how the research will be conducted. Describe the research design, data collection methods, sampling techniques, and analytical tools. A clear and detailed methodology ensures your approach is sound and feasible.

Importance of Analyzing Sample Proposals

Analyzing sample proposals offers several benefits:

Understanding Structure: Understanding the structure is essential for creating a clear, organized, and persuasive document. A structure has a title, introduction, objectives, research questions, literature review, methodology, timeline, expected outcomes, and references.

Learning Best Practices: Studying successful examples and following clear guidelines ensures your proposal is well-structured and compelling. It focuses on clarity, conciseness, and coherence. Also, address objectives, methodology, and significance.

Identifying Common Pitfalls: Common pitfalls can help you avoid mistakes such as lack of clarity, insufficient research, and poor organization. Recognizing these issues early ensures your proposal is clear, well-supported, and logically structured.

Reviewing examples like the one provided can improve your approach to writing your essay proposal. This practice ensures your proposal is clear, well-structured, and convincing, enhancing your chances of approval.

Proposal Essay Outline

Introduction

The introduction of your proposal essay establishes the foundation for the entire document. It should:

Summarize Main Points and Purpose: Summarizing the main points and purpose of your essay proposal clarifies the central arguments and objectives for the reader. It ensures that your proposal effectively communicates the essence of your research and its intended goals.

Example: “This proposal seeks to explore the impact of social media on college students’ academic performance. Understanding this relationship is crucial for developing effective strategies to improve student success.”

Present a Clear Thesis Statement: A clear thesis statement in your essay proposal outlines the central argument or position you will be addressing. This statement provides a focused direction for your research and helps readers understand the core objective of your study.

Example: “This study aims to determine whether the time students spend on social media negatively impacts their academic performance.”

The body of your proposal is where you laid out the detailed plan for your research. It should:

Include Evidence and Supporting Arguments: This strengthens your claims and provides a solid foundation for your research. This approach demonstrates that your proposal is based on thorough research and will likely contribute valuable insights.

Example: “Previous studies have shown mixed results regarding the influence of social media on academic performance. This Study will fill the gap by examining a diverse group of students across multiple universities.”

Use Statistics, Quotes, and Real-Life Examples: Adding these in proposals adds credibility and depth to your arguments. These elements help to illustrate your points more effectively and make your proposal more persuasive and compelling.

Example: “A survey conducted at XYZ University revealed that 40% of students spend more than 3 hours daily on social media, correlating with lower GPA scores.”

The conclusion should effectively summarize your proposal. It needs to:

Wrap Up the Argument: This section succinctly wraps up your main points and reinforces the significance of your research. It should reaffirm the value of your study and its potential impact.

Example: “This study will provide valuable insights into the relationship between social media usage and academic performance, potentially guiding future educational policies.”

Motivate Readers to Take Action: It should clearly sketch your research’s importance and potential impact. Encouraging immediate interest or support helps drive engagement and approval for your proposed study.

Example: “By supporting this research, academic institutions can better understand how to foster environments that enhance student success.”

Additional Elements

Although not always mandatory, these elements can enhance the depth and credibility of your proposal:

Optional Bibliography and Appendix: A bibliography provides a list of the sources you referenced, while an appendix may contain supplementary materials such as charts, questionnaires, or additional data.

Example: “Bibliography: Smith, J. (2020). The Effects of Social Media on Academic Performance. Journal of Educational Research. Appendix: Survey Questionnaire.”

Importance of Editing and Revising Your Proposal: Always review your proposal for clarity, coherence, and conciseness. Editing helps ensure that your document is professional and free from errors.

Example: “Before submission, review your proposal multiple times. Consider having a peer or mentor read it to catch any errors you might have missed.”

This procedure allows you to craft a well-organized and compelling essay proposal that communicates your research plans and objectives.

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Narrative Essay Writing

Narrative Essay Examples

20+ Top Narrative Essay Examples by Experts

12 min read

Published on: Apr 12, 2020

Last updated on: Mar 24, 2024

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Narrative essays are a common assignment in school, but many students struggle to write them. 

The problem with narrative essays is that they can be difficult to write. They require students to think about their own experiences and to put those experiences into words. This can be a challenge, especially for students who are not used to writing about themselves.

The solution to the problem of writing narrative essays is to provide students with examples. By reading examples of narrative essays, students can see how other students have successfully written about their own experiences. 

In this blog post, we will provide you with examples of narrative essays.By the end of this blog post, you will have a better understanding of how to write a narrative essay.

On This Page On This Page -->

Before writing, go through narrative essay examples to ensure that outlining and formatting are done correctly. Moreover, looking at examples will allow the writer to understand sensory details and vocabulary to describe events, settings, characters, and emotions.

Here are some famous narrative essays that you can consider adding to your reading wishlist:

“A Modest Proposal” by Jonathan Swift

“Once More to the Lake” by EB White

“The Fourth of July” by Audre Lorde

“The Story of an Hour” by Kate Chopin

“The Crisis” by Thomas Paine

But it doesn't end here! To help our students, CollegeEssay.org has gathered many other narrative essay sample. These examples will help you learn the correct formation of a narrative essay.

Read on to discover!

Personal Narrative Essay Example

Are you looking for a sample to draft a personal narrative essay ? Go through the example provided below to understand how the first-person and third-person perspectives are used in a narrative essay.

Sample Personal Narrative Essay

Narrative Essay Example for Middle School

A narrative essay is frequently assigned to middle school students to assess their writing and creative skills. If you are a student looking for a sample narrative essay for your middle school assignment, go through the example provided below.

Narrative Essay Example: 7th Grade

Narrative Essay Example for Grade 8

Grade 9 Narrative Essay Example

Sample Narrative Essay Grade 12

Narrative Essay Example for High School

When drafting assignments for high school, professional writing is essential. Your essays and papers should be well structured and written in order to achieve better grades. If you are assigned a narrative essay, go through the sample provided to see how an effective essay is written.

Sample Narrative Essay For High School

Good Narrative Essay Examples for College

College essays are more complex in nature than other academic levels. They require a better understanding of the concept, following a proper writing procedure, and an outline.

Although you are to draft a narrative essay for your college assignment, make sure it is professionally written. Read the sample narrative essay provided below.

Descriptive Narrative Essay Example

If you are to draft a document on the recreation of an event, a descriptive narrative essay is written. It presents an incident that happened to the writer and the backed-up information that supports the story.

The following is a perfect example of a descriptive narrative essay.

Sample Descriptive Narrative Essay

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Literacy Narrative Essay Example

Academic assignments often require students to draft essays on education. Education is the most significant topic of discussion, and for this purpose, almost every essay type and research paper studies it.

If you are drafting a narrative essay on literacy, go through the sample provided.

Fictional Narrative Essay Example

Drafting a fictional piece of document requires a more vivid description and detail. If you are assigned a narrative essay to draft on a fictional theme, read the example provided below.

Sample Fictional Narrative Essay

The Essentials of Narrative Essays

In a narrative essay, the goal is to write a story from one person's perspective. To do this well requires incorporating all of these aspects: 

Below are some golden points that you should keep in mind when writing a narrative essay.

• Chronological order is the most common way to present information.
• A thesis statement has a function in an essay. This is typically evident in the opening paragraph.
• The writer's argument is clearly communicated through the use of sensory details and vivid language.
• This draws the reader in and makes them interested in what the writer has to say. Everything in the passage is somehow related to the main point.

How to Start a Narrative Essay?

When you start writing the narrative essay, you should follow some steps and make your writing process easy.

For your help, we gathered some steps that you should follow when starting writing the essay.

• Choose a narrative essay topic that is engaging and interesting.
• Do some research and then start writing the essay.
• Create an outline.
• Start writing the essay. The way you describe things should be creative and colorful. Thus, the reader can feel as if they are right there with what's happening.
• Proofread the essay before submitting it.

Watch the video below for tips on how to write a narrative essay:

Narrative Essay Writing Tips 

Professional essay writers of CollegeEssay.org have gathered some tips and tricks for you to follow to make your narrative essay remarkable. Even if you are aware of the writing procedure, it is advised to use expert tips to make your documents flawless. 

Follow the tips provided below to draft an exceptional narrative essay.

• Clear Content: The narrative essay content should be clear. All the details and descriptions provided should be readable and understandable by the audience. Avoid using complex words and distribute content into paragraphs.
• Keep it concise: Avoid describing every minor detail or movement. Provide only explanations that are important for the readers to imagine. 
• Use first-person perspective: To make something believable and interesting for the readers, state it from the first-person perspective. Share your personal experiences, stories, and opinions to make the content impactful. 
• Use limited referencing: When drafting an essay, according to the instructed format, avoid using frequent in-text citations. 
• Use Clear Stance: Write your point of view clearly, so the readers feel that it is a genuine piece of writing. 

Keep in mind that a narrative essay is different from an expository essay but the same as a descriptive essay .  

In conclusion,

Using the tips provided by the professionals and going through the narrative essay examples will let you draft an effective paper. 

Looking for top-tier essay writing help online ?

Our narrative essay writing service offers unparalleled expertise to bring your stories to life with clarity and creativity.

Also, elevate your writing journey with the best essay writer , our AI-driven tool that combines cutting-edge technology with user-friendly functionality. Experience the blend of traditional craftsmanship and modern innovation in your next essay. Try it now!

Frequently Asked Questions

How long is a narrative paragraph.

Paragraphs vary in length depending on the content, but a standard 5-sentence paragraph usually isn't enough to tell an interesting story. 

How do I write a narrative essay?

Here are some steps that will help you to write a great narrative essay. 

• Consider the topic 
• Start writing the draft 
• Provide supporting facts 
• Revise your essay 

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The Ultimate Guide to Writing a Standout Grant Narrative

Your grant narrative helps reviewers and funders understand who you are and how you will be successful at meeting the goals they set in the funding announcement. Your narrative helps convey your ability to complete the project or reach the outcomes. The narrative section is where you join ideas together like the needs you documented, the gaps in services you identified, and the solutions you are creating to get better outcomes.

In the world of grant writing, crafting a compelling narrative is key to capturing the attention of funders and securing the funding your project deserves. A strong narrative has the power to engage readers, convey the significance of your project, and inspire funders to invest in your cause. In this blog post, we will explore essential tips and strategies for crafting a compelling narrative that will elevate your grant writing to new heights.

How to Write A Grant Narrative

Crafting a high-scoring grant application requires careful attention to several key elements that showcase your organization’s strengths and align with the funder’s priorities. A strong application not only increases your chances of success but also demonstrates your organization’s competence and capacity to deliver on its promises. 

For a reviewer, a high-scoring grant application is one that: 

• Has no or few fatal flaws 
• Meets the requirements
• Provides proof of eligibility
• Has a strong implementation plan
• Addresses the criteria directly 

From a reviewer’s perspective, reading a bad narrative takes more time and energy because you have to hunt for answers that should be readily available. If you follow the tips in this blog post you will make your reviewers happy by developing a narrative that they’ll love.

10 Tips for a Stronger Grant Narrative

To set your application apart and make it stand out in a competitive grant competition use these techniques when you develop your grant narrative:

• Understand Your Audience: Take time to study your audience, the grant reviewers. Reviewers expect your application to strategically address all evaluation criteria outlined by the funder. Each section of your proposal should be designed to score maximum points with reviewers, ensuring that every aspect is well-thought-out and presented clearly.
• Clearly Define the Problem or Need: Articulate the problem or need your project aims to address in a concise and compelling manner. Clearly highlight the significance and urgency of the issue, painting a vivid picture of the current needs and gaps. 
• Tell a Story: Storytelling is a powerful tool in grant writing. Take the reviewers on a journey by sharing real-life stories, personal experiences, or case studies that demonstrate the impact of your work. Connect emotionally with the readers, allowing them to empathize with the individuals or communities your project seeks to serve. Make your narrative relatable and memorable. This technique is highly dependent on your audience as some grants (such as federal grants) may not allow space for long vignettes or stories.
• Showcase Your Organization’s Expertise and Track Record: Highlight your organization’s accomplishments, expertise, and track record of success. Discuss past projects, partnerships, and the positive outcomes achieved. Provide evidence of your organization’s ability to effectively implement and manage projects, instilling confidence in the reviewers about your project’s feasibility and potential for success. Your ability to complete the work required by the grant is critical to get funded.
• Clearly Outline Your Goals and Objectives: Clearly define your project’s goals and objectives in a concise and measurable manner. Describe the specific outcomes and impact you aim to achieve through your project. Many grants require you to use the SMART (Specific, Measurable, Achievable, Relevant, Time-bound) goals format to demonstrate the feasibility of your project plan.
• Build Strong Partnerships: Highlight any collaborations or partnerships that strengthen your project’s credibility and potential for success. Discuss how you plan to engage stakeholders, leverage community resources, or collaborate with other organizations to achieve your goals. 
• Avoid Technical Flaws: Thoroughly review and edit your application to ensure there are no technical errors, inconsistencies, or omissions. A well-structured, error-free proposal enhances your credibility and professionalism. Technical flaws are anything a reviewer might see as a mistake that could lead to poor implementation or a part of your proposal that is not well-developed. Since reviewers are likely experts in your field, it is important that you have your experts review your application before submission as well.
• Emphasize Sustainability and Long-Term Impact: Funders are interested in projects that have a lasting impact beyond the grant period. Clearly articulate how your project will be sustainable in the long run and how it will continue to benefit the community even after the grant funding ends. The 8 Dimensions of Sustainability model can help you describe your sustainability plan and articulate the steps you will take to ensure lasting success.
• Use Clear and Convincing Language: Craft your narrative using clear, concise, and persuasive language. Avoid jargon and technical terms that may confuse the reader. Edit and proofread your narrative meticulously to ensure clarity and coherence.
• Organize Your Information with Headers: Using formatting to draw attention to statements and transition between ideas will help reviewers scan your narrative. The easier it is for them to see you have addressed the criteria the easier it is to award you points for doing so. Use clear headers, bold, charts, and italics to format information that is important. Be sure to follow the guidelines for formatting given in the funding announcement. 

Frequently Asked Questions About Grant Writing

Beyond these tips, you might have a few questions about writing a winning grant application and how to structure your narrative. Let’s answer a few frequently asked questions about grant writing.

How do you write a compelling grant? 

Crafting a compelling grant begins with a deep understanding of your project’s mission, goals, and target audience. Your grant narrative should give your audience all the information they need to want to give you money.

Start by clearly defining the problem your project aims to address and the solutions you propose. Use data, statistics, and first-hand information from the population you serve to back your claims and demonstrate the significance of your work. Showcase your organization’s expertise and track record of successful initiatives to build trust and credibility with funders. Funders want to know that you’re ready, able, and willing to do the work required to get grant funding.

Consider the funder’s priorities and align your narrative with their objectives. Research the funder’s previous grant awards to gain insights into their preferences and areas of focus. 

Tailoring your narrative to fit the funder’s interests increases the relevance and appeal of your proposal. Never submit the exact same application for multiple grant competitions. Rather, have a ready-to-use grant template like our Notion Grant Writing Template that you can tailor for every specific grant competition you apply to. 

How long should a narrative be for a grant? 

Grant narratives typically range from 3 to 10 pages, but it’s essential to prioritize quality over quantity.

The length of a grant narrative can vary depending on the funder’s guidelines and the complexity of your project. However, as a general rule, aim for a concise and focused narrative that covers all essential aspects without overwhelming the reader. 

Convey your ideas effectively using plain language writing techniques or clear and concise language. Avoid jargon and technical terms that may be unfamiliar to the reader. Instead, focus on presenting a coherent and engaging narrative that demonstrates the potential impact of your project.

What is a narrative in a grant application?

In a grant application, the narrative is the section that provides a detailed description of your project, its objectives, methods, and expected outcomes. This section is your opportunity to tell the story of your project, compellingly conveying its significance and potential impact.

The point of your grant narrative is to communicate what you plan to accomplish, how you will implement your project, and convey your experience with projects of similar scope. Remember, grant reviewers give more points for strong narratives that reply to all the criteria, including the requirements, and demonstrate you are capable of getting to outcomes.

What is the biggest challenge in grant writing? 

One of the most significant challenges is striking the right balance between showcasing the significance of your project and adhering to the word or page limits set by funders. Condensing a complex project into a concise narrative without compromising its integrity requires careful planning and precise writing.

When crafting your grant narrative, think about the things that must be in your application or program to successfully reach your outcomes. Those items should be the first areas you focus on when crafting the sections of your grant application and grant narrative.

Once you have drafted a section, thoroughly edit your narrative to omit miscellaneous information and words. Do not leave editing to the last minute, it is important to edit as you go so your final product is as close to final as possible.

What are typical grant narrative sections?

A well-crafted narrative should address the following key components:

• Project Overview: Introduce your project and its goals. Clearly state the problem your project addresses and the beneficiaries it aims to serve.
• Objectives and Activities: Outline the specific objectives of your project and the activities you plan to implement to achieve them. Be specific and detail-oriented, providing a clear roadmap of how you will execute your project.
• Methodology and Approach: Describe your project’s methodology and approach. Explain the rationale behind your chosen methods and how they align with best practices and evidence-based strategies.
• Anticipated Outcomes: Clearly articulate the expected outcomes of your project. Use data and evidence to support your projections and show the potential impact of your work.
• Evaluation and Sustainability: Demonstrate how you will evaluate the success of your project and measure its impact. Discuss your plan for sustainability beyond the grant period, showcasing your organization’s capacity to maintain the project’s effectiveness.
• Budget: Show how your funding will be used by giving a clear picture of what you will use the money for. Ensure that only allowable expenses are included in your budget.

How can my grant proposal stand out from the competition?

Each funder brings their distinct set of expectations and preferences to the table, making ongoing research and adaptability crucial in ensuring your proposal resonates deeply with their mission. To create a grant proposal that truly shines amidst a landscape of competitive submissions, dedicate your efforts to crafting a narrative that exudes clarity, authenticity, and resonance. 

Showcase not only your project’s potential impact but also your dedication to sustainable success . Infuse your narrative with compelling storytelling that ignites the reader’s interest and empathy. By sharing your passion, expertise, and commitment, you can elevate your proposal from a mere submission to a captivating journey that captivates and compels funders to invest in your vision.

Grant reviewers enjoy seeing an organization shine at the work it excels at. The more your narrative can show the fit between what your population of focus needs, what you provide, and the outcomes the funder desires the higher your grant application will rise in the competition.

Learn Grant Writing Now

Crafting a compelling narrative is a crucial step in creating successful grant proposals. By understanding your audience, telling engaging stories, showcasing expertise, and emphasizing sustainability, you can capture the attention of funders and increase your chances of securing the funding your project deserves. 

The only way to learn is to practice and refine your skills. That’s why you can now enroll at any time in Idea 2 Action: Art of Sustainable Grant Writing . 

This course enhances your grant writing skills and teaches you advanced techniques to create impactful narratives and high-scoring grant applications. Start crafting narratives that leave a lasting impression and propel your project or program toward success.

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How to Write An Effective Project Narrative

This post offers actionable tips and advice for organizing, brainstorming, writing, and editing project narratives.

A project narrative is a common component of a grant application or proposal. It defines a project’s scope and purpose, and it explains how it will be executed. Effective project narratives are succinct, organized, and written in clear, direct language. Your goal is to explain your project so well that a reader understands the breadth of the project and is convinced of its value. 

This post, authored by Madeleine Cutrona, NYFA Coach and Senior Program Officer, NYFA Fiscal Sponsorship , offers suggestions for organizing, brainstorming, writing, and editing your project narrative. Read on for advice on how to write a successful project narrative.

Step 1: Use a Working Document

Consider your project narrative a working document or an ongoing draft that you occasionally update and can use as a point of departure for future opportunities. 

With each application and proposal, you will describe your project to different stakeholders (ex. funders, collaborators, participants, partner organizations, etc). In order to speak to these different audiences, you can tweak your project narrative for each audience. Similarly, since your project will no doubt evolve over time, keeping a draft project narrative tracks your project’s evolution over time.  

Step 2: Prepare to Write

Writing an effective project narrative is all about the art of written communication, and this process can be challenging. Here are specific strategies to help you transform your expansive ideas into a detailed project narrative. 

• Brain Dump: Get alllllllllllllll your ideas out there. Write down every idea that comes into your head, stream-of-consciousness-style. No idea is too small, too silly, or too random to include. The goal of this exercise is to clear your mind (and future writing!) of clutter. There is absolutely no need to self-edit, revise, or in any way perfect your writing during a brain dump. If you’re new to this process, begin by setting a timer for five or ten minutes. With your thoughts securely jotted down, you can then close that document or put your paper in the drawer. You are now ready to write! You also have a treasure trove of ideas to come back to in the future, should you need inspiration.    
• What activities does the project consist of?
• When will the project happen? When did it begin? When did it end? What are milestones in the project timeline?
• Who is leading the team? Who is on the team and what is their experience? 
• Where does the project take place?
• Why is this project relevant at this time? Why are you (and/or your team) the right person to lead this project right now?
• How will you organize the project activities? How will the team work together? 
• Summary: A concise overview of your project, highlighting the most important information. 
• Goals: A long-term achievable outcome for your project. This SMART goals template is a useful format.
• Objectives: Specific, measurable steps to achieve the overall goals. 
• Timeline: When does the project begin? What milestones will mark the progression of your project? When does your project conclude?  
• Leadership: How is the team prepared to meet the challenges of the project, such as new content or processes? 
• Impact: Identifying the impact of your project at the start of your project can help you write more detailed mechanics about your project operations. How will the world be different after your project concludes? Identify what the beginning, middle, and end (impact) of your work will be.
• Evaluation/Follow-up: How will you assess your project’s success? This section should align with the goals of your project. 

Step 3: Write It…Finally! 

With your main ideas recorded, it’s now time to put it all together and formally write your narrative.

• Build upon the framework of your outline by adding specific examples. 
• Describe your project with language that allows your reader to see your project unfold in their mind’s eye.  
• Write for a general audience, refraining from using technical language beyond what might be known/read by your audience.  

The National Endowment for the Arts (NEA) shares Sample Applications from a variety of disciplines on their website . These are examples of funded projects/programs from arts organizations. 

Step 4: Review 

Find a trusted colleague or friend to read your project narrative for you. This is really important. Working with an outside reader is especially helpful for catching details about your project that you might have overlooked because you know your project so well. To help make the most of your review session:   

• Ask a reader to identify the five W’s of your project after reading and see if they align with your own list. If they do not, you know what areas of your application are unclear.  
• Ask a reader what questions they have about your project after reading the proposal. You will learn what you need to clarify in your narrative.  

Step 5: Customize and Submit!

The purpose of having a working document is preparing project narrative text that you can easily adapt to specific applications. Although you will ultimately need to customize your narrative to fit your project when you submit the narrative with a grant or residency proposal, you can write for an idealized audience at this stage in a single document. When you later apply  for a grant or to a residency to complete a project the institution you are applying to might have an existing form for you to complete. At this stage you can pull from your draft document.   

– Madeleine Cutrona, Senior Program Officer, NYFA Fiscal Sponsorship

To book a session with Madeleine or any of our other coaches, click here . If you have questions about this program, contact  [email protected] .

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160+ Best Narrative Essay Topics for Students in 2024

Table of contents

• 1.1 Personal Achievements and Experiences Essay Ideas
• 1.2 Narrative Essay Ideas about Community and Home
• 1.3 School-Related Narrative Essay Topics for Students
• 1.4 Good Narrative Essay Topics for College Students
• 1.5 Personal Narrative Essay Topics
• 1.6 Personal Experience Narrative Essay Topics
• 1.7 Narrative Essay Topics About Childhood
• 1.8 Relationship Narrative Essay Topics
• 1.9 Personal Narrative Stories Ideas on Traveling and Holidays
• 1.10 Personal Narrative Ideas on Morality and Religion
• 1.11 Narrative Essay Topics on Politics and Current Events
• 1.12 Interesting Narrative Essay Topics About Health
• 1.13 Narrative Essay Topics on Technology and Video Games
• 1.14 Overview

In academic practice, the narrative essay is probably one of the key elements to train students in expressing their opinions. It teaches well how to tell a story in a clear, concise manner, that’s why it is so welcome in the language and composition classes.

Narrative essays are not only valuable as such: their contribution lies in the ability to elaborate students’ storytelling and narration skills. To touch the reader’s nerves, you should opt for exciting narrative essay ideas. There are plenty of them – but don’t worry, we’ve got you covered! Below you’ll find a comprehensive list of essay ideas.

Narrative Essay Topics for Students

We’ve analyzed trainees’ experience in writing narrative paragraphs and selected narrative essay topics for college and school students. This profound list covers a wide range of subjects, so pick one!

Personal Achievements and Experiences Essay Ideas

• How did I overcome my biggest fear?
• When did I feel truly independent?
• What was the first major decision I made on my own?
• What did I learn from my first job experience?
• How did volunteering change my perspective?
• What challenges did I face while learning a new skill?
• How did I achieve a personal fitness goal?
• What was the most important lesson from a personal failure?
• How did I manage a conflict and what did it teach me?
• What role has mentorship played in my personal development?
• What was my experience with cultural exchange and how did it impact my views?
• What happened when I took a significant risk?
• How do I contribute to my community’s well-being?
• What were the effects of moving to a new city?
• What did I gain from a year off before college?
• How did I evolve from shyness to confidence?
• How did I achieve a goal I never thought possible?
• What did I learn from a financial mistake?
• How did a book or movie profoundly change my outlook?
• What impact has a family tradition had on my personal growth?

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Narrative Essay Ideas about Community and Home

• Describe a local tradition that feels like home to you.
• How did you contribute to a community project for the first time?
• Describe a dispute in your community and how it was resolved.
• What was the biggest change your neighborhood has undergone?
• What is your role in maintaining your home or community environment?
• How has a community leader positively impacted your life?
• What local issue are you passionate about and why?
• Describe your experience of moving from one community to another.
• What family tradition has strengthened your family bonds?
• How did you help a neighbor in need?
• Describe a community celebration that brought everyone closer.
• How has the sense of community in your neighborhood influenced your upbringing?
• Describe the most peaceful place in your community.
• How did your family or neighbors handle a local emergency?
• What lesson did you learn from a community elder that has stayed with you?
• Describe a character from your town who could be the star of their own show.
• What popular misconceptions or jokes might a TV show about your town explore?
• Are there any myths or famous stories associated with landmarks in your area?
• What is one issue in your community that needs more attention from local leaders?
• How do your interactions with diverse cultures enrich your community experience?

School-Related Narrative Essay Topics for Students

High school students normally feel comfortable about describing their study routine. Below you’ll find interesting topics to convey some of the things at school familiar to every pupil.

• Describe an unexpected day off and what you did.
• Who was your favorite teacher and why?
• What was your most memorable sports event participation?
• Describe your toughest debate competition.
• What was your best role in a school theater production?
• What activities did you engage in after school?
• What was the craziest incident on your campus?
• How did you fail an exam?
• Describe how you successfully got through a challenging exam.
• What were the consequences when you got caught cheating?
• What was your most transformative moment in high school?
• Describe a time when you challenged a popular opinion among your peers.
• How did you handle your first significant test of responsibility?
• What event marked your transition from childhood to adolescence?
• What was your most memorable school trip?
• How did a teacher influence your path in a subject you either love or hate?
• What was your proudest moment in an extracurricular activity?
• Describe the first time you felt that you had let someone down.
• How did you cope with peer pressure in a challenging situation?
• What lesson did you learn from your first major failure at school?
• How did you manage your time between school and a personal hobby?
• What was the most unexpected friendship you developed?
• How did a particular book or project change your understanding of the world?
• What was the biggest risk you took and what was the outcome?
• How has technology affected your learning experience?
• Describe a moment when you had to stand up for your beliefs.
• What does your school ritual before exams look like?
• Who in your life has set a remarkable example of courage and integrity?
• How has your understanding of global issues changed due to a school project?
• What was your most challenging moment while working on a group project?

Good Narrative Essay Topics for College Students

Like high schoolers, college and university students are fond of talking about their everyday matters. Whether a topic about students’ affairs or reflection on new relationships, the most popular narrative topics for college students are collected here.

• What did you feel on your first day at higher education?
• Describe your emotions on the last day with your high school friends.
• Which course at college was your favorite and why?
• How did you meet your significant other during your studies?
• Share the details of a significant breakup during your college years.
• What was the highlight of your high school experience?
• Recount how you reconnected with an old friend during college.
• Who was your favorite professor and what made them stand out?
• Tell us about a humorous event you experienced on campus.
• What event during your college years had the most symbolic meaning to you?
• Describe the day you moved to college.
• How did you travel to your college for the first time?
• What were your initial impressions of the college campus?
• How did you meet your college roommate?
• Describe how you made your first friends in college.
• What challenge did you overcome to pursue a college education, and what did you learn from it?
• Describe a moment when you changed your major or career path based on a profound experience or realization.
• How did participating in a student organization or club fundamentally change your perspective or goals?
• What was the most impactful piece of advice you received from a college advisor or mentor, and how did it influence your academic journey?
• Recount an experience where you had to advocate for yourself or others in the college setting, and describe the outcome.

Personal Narrative Essay Topics

Each of us had moments in life the story of which would be interesting to others. Develop your narration mastery and tell the world a story about the very best, most memorable, extremely scary, or awkward situations. Our list is here to assist you.

• Describe the moment you realized what you wanted to do with your life.
• How did a significant event change your perspective on family?
• What was a pivotal moment of self-discovery during your teenage years?
• Who has been your biggest influence outside of your family, and why?
• What experience first taught you about the importance of community?
• Describe a time when you had to stand up for your beliefs.
• What was your most challenging moral dilemma and how did you handle it?
• How has a failure led to success in your personal or academic life?
• What was the most enlightening travel experience you’ve had?
• Discuss a time when you helped someone in need and how it affected you.
• What is your most cherished memory with a grandparent or elder?
• Describe your first major responsibility and what you learned from it.
• How did a particular book or movie fundamentally alter your outlook on life?
• What unexpected friendship has had the greatest impact on your life?
• Discuss a tradition in your family that has deep meaning for you.
• How have your goals evolved over the past five years?
• What was your most profound spiritual or religious experience?
• Describe an encounter that taught you something important about prejudice or discrimination.
• What is the most difficult decision you’ve ever made, and how did you arrive at your choice?
• How did you deal with your first significant heartbreak?

Personal Experience Narrative Essay Topics

Personal experiences are way more exciting for writers. Unfortunately, personal narrative essays are not always just as fascinating for listeners unless they are presented in an entertaining manner. We’re sure that the ideas for personal narratives below will help you pick your topic to maximize readers’ engagement.

• Describe a moment that made you exceptionally proud. Why did it have such a significant impact?
• Recall your first visit to an opera house. What did you experience, and how did it change your perception of the arts?
• Share the story of the strangest accident you ever witnessed. What made it so unusual?
• What was your first encounter with Asian cuisine like? Describe the flavors and your reaction.
• Detail the most memorable birthday gift you’ve ever received. Why does it stand out in your mind?
• Imagine you are a character in your favorite book. Who would you be and what adventures would you have?
• Revisit a memory you wish you could experience again. What makes this memory so precious?
• If you were a superhero from a movie, which one would you choose and why?
• Tell the story of how you lost something that wasn’t yours. What ensued?
• Describe your first trip to the sea. What did you feel and discover about the ocean and yourself?
• Explore what makes you unique. What are some traits or experiences that set you apart?
• Narrate your first journey into the wilderness. What challenges did you face and what did you learn?
• Reflect on your first job interview. How did you prepare, and what was the outcome?
• Discuss the most significant loss you’ve experienced. How did it affect your life thereafter?
• Describe the most memorable Christmas you have had. What happened that year to make it unforgettable?

Narrative Essay Topics About Childhood

Childhood is probably the sweetest period of our lives and the one with the most number of insights. The most powerful experiences come from it, and most of our reflections are related to a child’s perception in this or that way. Check out our list of captivating topics about childhood and pick one.

• Describe your earliest memory. What makes it stand out?
• What was your favorite game to play as a child, and why was it special to you?
• Recall a time when you learned a lesson the hard way. What happened?
• Share a story about a childhood friendship that influenced who you are today.
• What was your most treasured childhood possession and what became of it?
• Describe a family vacation from your childhood that left a lasting impression.
• Who was your hero as a child and how did they influence your values?
• What childhood book had the biggest impact on your imagination or dreams?
• Tell the story of a day you felt you grew up a little bit.
• What was your favorite hiding spot as a child, and what did you hide from?
• Describe a moment when you got lost as a child. What did you discover during that experience?
• Share a story about a childhood event that you looked forward to all year.
• What was a typical birthday like for you as a child?
• Describe a childhood hobby or activity and why it was meaningful to you.
• Recall a significant event at school that shaped your childhood.
• Tell about a time you faced a fear as a child. How did you overcome it?
• What was your favorite family tradition as a child, and how has it evolved?
• Describe a moment when you felt misunderstood as a child.
• What was your proudest accomplishment as a child and why was it significant?
• Share a story about a time when a seemingly mundane event turned out to be memorable.

Relationship Narrative Essay Topics

Writing about this huge layer of experience – relationships – is surely thrilling. We’ve picked just some of the great variety of narrative topics about relationships for you. Even if you don’t find here exactly what you want to talk about, you’ll definitely hit upon an appropriate idea.

• Describe the details of your first romantic date. What made it memorable?
• How did meeting your best friend transform your life? Share specific changes.
• Discuss the saddest moment you’ve experienced in a relationship. How did it affect you?
• Describe a pivotal moment in a significant relationship. What changed after that?
• Identify a relationship from a book or movie that you see as a role model. Why does it inspire you?
• Share the story of your first romantic relationship. What lessons did you learn?
• What do your parents mean to you? Describe their influence on your life.
• What is the best piece of relationship advice you have ever received? Who gave it and why was it impactful?
• Why is your significant other so crucial in your life? Explore the depth of your bond.
• Narrate a situation that helped you mend a damaged relationship. What steps did you take?
• What are your most cherished memories with friends? Detail one or two specific events.
• Describe the experience of making your first confession. What prompted it and how did it feel?
• Share how you supported someone battling depression. What did you learn from the experience?
• Discuss a film or book that profoundly affected your views on relationships. What resonated with you?
• Have you ever fallen in love at first sight? Describe the experience and the aftermath.
• What are the most significant relationships in your life outside of family? Explain their value.
• What advice would you give someone who is about to start their first relationship?
• How do you navigate the complexities of modern dating? Share your insights and personal rules.
• Discuss the end of a close friendship. How did you handle the situation, and what did you learn?
• Describe your best friend from summer camp. What made your friendship special?
• How did you reconnect with a friend after a significant quarrel? What steps did you take?
• Share a story of how you covered for a friend in a difficult situation.
• What was it like meeting your online friend in person for the first time? Describe the experience.
• How did you help a friend reconnect with a loved one? What role did you play?
• Narrate the coolest adventure you’ve had with your best friend. What made it unforgettable?
• What was your first visit to your friend’s house like? Describe your impressions and feelings.
• Describe the worst quarrel you had with a friend. How did it affect your relationship?
• Who is your best older friend, and what have you learned from them?
• How did an enemy become a friend? Describe the transformation in your relationship.
• What was the toughest situation you and your friend faced together? How did you overcome it?
• Describe your relationship with your friend’s sibling. What role do they play in your friendship?
• Narrate a situation where you had to choose between two friends. What was the outcome?
• How did you meet a friend on the Internet? Describe the journey from online to offline friendship.

Personal Narrative Stories Ideas on Traveling and Holidays

This segment of subjects covers individual experiences. Respectively, it has to do with reflections, opinions, and feelings. Our list of personal narrative ideas related to trips and celebrations is here for your convenience.

• What was your best entertainment during the winter holidays?
• Describe your first experience traveling abroad. What did you learn?
• How did it feel visiting a warm country for the first time in winter?
• Share the story of a time you missed your flight, train, or bus. What happened next?
• What was the happiest moment you experienced during the holidays?
• How did you make a new friend during a holiday trip? What bonded you?
• Describe your first time traveling alone. What were the highlights and challenges?
• What made your most memorable holiday ever so special?
• What was the saddest incident you experienced on a holiday? How did you cope?
• Describe your best visit to a foreign city during a holiday. What did you explore?
• What was your best travel experience to a big city? What impressed you the most?
• Recount the worst quarrel you had while on holiday. What was the resolution?
• What were the best encounters you had during a holiday? Who did you meet?
• Describe your best trip to the countryside. What made it unforgettable?
• How did you feel returning home after a long vacation? What was the transition like?
• How do you make the most of long holiday weekends?
• What is your typical Sunday routine during the holidays?
• What are your favorite fall activities during holiday breaks?
• What traditions do you follow for Halloween? Do you wear a costume?
• How do you celebrate Thanksgiving with your family?
• What are your tips for enjoying the holiday season to the fullest?
• How do you plan to spend your next holiday break?
• Do you make New Year’s resolutions? What are your goals for the new year?
• How do you combat the winter blues during the colder months?
• What has been your most severe weather experience while traveling?
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Personal Narrative Ideas on Morality and Religion

Strong argumentation is one of the indications of a successful academic paper and a prerequisite for a higher grade. You should pick a topic you are confident in to provide your effective arguments as your objective is to persuade your readers. Opt for a narrative essay topic that speaks to you.

• Describe the toughest decision you had to make between right and wrong.
• What choice do you regret the most?
• How did you help a friend even when it meant breaking the rules?
• Describe a situation where you were involved in a conflict between other people.
• Share the experience of getting caught lying.
• How did you feel when you let down a friend by following the rules?
• Describe a time when you shifted the blame to someone else.
• What was the toughest yet most important experience you have had?
• How did helping someone for personal benefit make you feel?
• Describe a prank you played on a friend.
• How did you react when you saw someone being bullied?
• Share a story about a time your friend took the blame for you.
• Do you believe justice truly exists?
• Describe a time when you ignored someone’s wrong behavior.
• How do you generally help others?
• What ethical dilemmas have you faced?
• Would you help an injured stranger?
• When was the last time you did something nice for a stranger?
• Have you ever ‘paid it forward’?
• How often do you gossip?
• How comfortable are you with lying?
• Have you ever taken something that wasn’t yours?
• What could you live without that others might find essential?
• Do you ever feel guilty about what or how much you throw away?
• Do you ever eavesdrop?
• How important is your spiritual life?
• Do you believe that everything happens for a reason?
• Can you be good without believing in God?
• Are you less religious than your parents?
• What can you learn from other religions?

Narrative Essay Topics on Politics and Current Events

• Describe a time when you participated in a political protest and what motivated you to join.
• What local political issue are you most passionate about and why?
• Explain how a recent event changed your perspective on government policies.
• Share an experience where you volunteered for a political campaign and what you learned.
• Describe a time when you had a political debate with someone and the outcome of that debate.
• How did a current event influence your view on international relations?
• What political figure do you admire the most and why?
• Describe an experience where you felt the impact of a political decision on your community.
• What recent news story made you rethink your stance on a social issue?
• Explain how a political event affected your school or university.
• Share a story about a time you felt proud of your country’s actions on the world stage.
• How did a significant political change in your country affect your family?
• Describe your first experience voting in an election and what it meant to you.
• What event prompted you to follow politics more closely?
• Explain how a political scandal influenced your trust in government officials.
• Describe an experience where you advocated for a cause you believe in and the result.
• How did a major political event shape the discussions in your household?
• Share a story about a time you met a political leader and what the interaction was like.
• Explain how a piece of legislation impacted your life or the life of someone you know.
• Describe an experience where you participated in a school or community event about current affairs and what you took away from it.

Interesting Narrative Essay Topics About Health

• Describe a time when you had to make a difficult health-related decision and what influenced your choice.
• Share an experience where you made a significant lifestyle change for your health.
• What was the most challenging health obstacle you faced and how did you overcome it?
• How did a health scare in your family impact your perspective on wellness?
• Describe a time when you helped someone improve their health.
• Explain how a specific diet or exercise program affected your well-being.
• What was your first experience with a mental health issue and how did you handle it?
• Share a story about how you maintained your health during a stressful period.
• Describe a time when you struggled with maintaining a healthy balance between work and life.
• How did a health-related event change your relationship with a loved one?
• What was your experience with a significant illness or injury and what did you learn from it?
• Explain how participating in a health-related event or challenge impacted you.
• Describe a time when you had to support a friend or family member through a health crisis.
• What was the most memorable health advice you received and how did it influence you?
• Share an experience where you discovered the importance of mental health.
• Describe a time when you had to advocate for your health needs in a medical setting.
• How did a specific health goal motivate you to change your daily habits?
• What was your first encounter with alternative medicine and what was the outcome?
• Explain how a health awareness campaign influenced your actions or beliefs.
• Describe a time when you witnessed the positive effects of a healthy lifestyle on someone close to you.

Narrative Essay Topics on Technology and Video Games

• Describe a time when a new piece of technology significantly impacted your life.
• How did you first get into video games and what was your initial experience like?
• Describe a situation where you relied on technology to overcome a challenge.
• What was your most memorable moment in online gaming and why?
• Explain how a specific video game helped you develop a new skill.
• Describe a time when you experienced the negative effects of technology addiction.
• How did you balance technology use with other activities in your daily life?
• Share a story about a friendship you made through online gaming.
• How did a particular video game affect your relationship with friends or family?
• Describe an experience where you used technology to create something meaningful.
• What was your first experience with virtual reality and how did it feel?
• Share a story about a time you participated in a gaming tournament.
• How did a tech-related project at school or work change your approach to tasks?
• Describe a time when a malfunctioning piece of technology caused a significant problem.
• Explain how you used a video game to escape from a stressful situation.
• What was your experience with learning to code and how did it impact you?
• Describe a time when you taught someone else to use a new technology.
• Share a story about a video game that brought your family together.

When writing a narrative essay, it is important to choose an interesting topic that can engage your readers. Finding the right topic can be a challenge, but there is no need to worry as there are many resources available, such as online essay writers , that can help you choose the best topic for your narrative essay.

Whether a personal experience essay, a story about your best childhood birthday, a narration about your most meaningful travel, or the way you reacted to essential world events, are all worth writing. Bear in mind that each of them requires research, adhering to a structure, and planning. Focus on what’s inspiring for you and may be of interest to your readers, and you’ll get a list of the narrative ideas working best for you.

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Grant Proposals (or Give me the money!)

What this handout is about.

This handout will help you write and revise grant proposals for research funding in all academic disciplines (sciences, social sciences, humanities, and the arts). It’s targeted primarily to graduate students and faculty, although it will also be helpful to undergraduate students who are seeking funding for research (e.g. for a senior thesis).

The grant writing process

A grant proposal or application is a document or set of documents that is submitted to an organization with the explicit intent of securing funding for a research project. Grant writing varies widely across the disciplines, and research intended for epistemological purposes (philosophy or the arts) rests on very different assumptions than research intended for practical applications (medicine or social policy research). Nonetheless, this handout attempts to provide a general introduction to grant writing across the disciplines.

Before you begin writing your proposal, you need to know what kind of research you will be doing and why. You may have a topic or experiment in mind, but taking the time to define what your ultimate purpose is can be essential to convincing others to fund that project. Although some scholars in the humanities and arts may not have thought about their projects in terms of research design, hypotheses, research questions, or results, reviewers and funding agencies expect you to frame your project in these terms. You may also find that thinking about your project in these terms reveals new aspects of it to you.

Writing successful grant applications is a long process that begins with an idea. Although many people think of grant writing as a linear process (from idea to proposal to award), it is a circular process. Many people start by defining their research question or questions. What knowledge or information will be gained as a direct result of your project? Why is undertaking your research important in a broader sense? You will need to explicitly communicate this purpose to the committee reviewing your application. This is easier when you know what you plan to achieve before you begin the writing process.

Diagram 1 below provides an overview of the grant writing process and may help you plan your proposal development.

Applicants must write grant proposals, submit them, receive notice of acceptance or rejection, and then revise their proposals. Unsuccessful grant applicants must revise and resubmit their proposals during the next funding cycle. Successful grant applications and the resulting research lead to ideas for further research and new grant proposals.

Cultivating an ongoing, positive relationship with funding agencies may lead to additional grants down the road. Thus, make sure you file progress reports and final reports in a timely and professional manner. Although some successful grant applicants may fear that funding agencies will reject future proposals because they’ve already received “enough” funding, the truth is that money follows money. Individuals or projects awarded grants in the past are more competitive and thus more likely to receive funding in the future.

Some general tips

• Begin early.
• Apply early and often.
• Don’t forget to include a cover letter with your application.
• Answer all questions. (Pre-empt all unstated questions.)
• If rejected, revise your proposal and apply again.
• Give them what they want. Follow the application guidelines exactly.
• Be explicit and specific.
• Be realistic in designing the project.
• Make explicit the connections between your research questions and objectives, your objectives and methods, your methods and results, and your results and dissemination plan.
• Follow the application guidelines exactly. (We have repeated this tip because it is very, very important.)

Before you start writing

Identify your needs and focus.

First, identify your needs. Answering the following questions may help you:

• Are you undertaking preliminary or pilot research in order to develop a full-blown research agenda?
• Are you seeking funding for dissertation research? Pre-dissertation research? Postdoctoral research? Archival research? Experimental research? Fieldwork?
• Are you seeking a stipend so that you can write a dissertation or book? Polish a manuscript?
• Do you want a fellowship in residence at an institution that will offer some programmatic support or other resources to enhance your project?
• Do you want funding for a large research project that will last for several years and involve multiple staff members?

Next, think about the focus of your research/project. Answering the following questions may help you narrow it down:

• What is the topic? Why is this topic important?
• What are the research questions that you’re trying to answer? What relevance do your research questions have?
• What are your hypotheses?
• What are your research methods?
• Why is your research/project important? What is its significance?
• Do you plan on using quantitative methods? Qualitative methods? Both?
• Will you be undertaking experimental research? Clinical research?

Once you have identified your needs and focus, you can begin looking for prospective grants and funding agencies.

Finding prospective grants and funding agencies

Whether your proposal receives funding will rely in large part on whether your purpose and goals closely match the priorities of granting agencies. Locating possible grantors is a time consuming task, but in the long run it will yield the greatest benefits. Even if you have the most appealing research proposal in the world, if you don’t send it to the right institutions, then you’re unlikely to receive funding.

There are many sources of information about granting agencies and grant programs. Most universities and many schools within universities have Offices of Research, whose primary purpose is to support faculty and students in grant-seeking endeavors. These offices usually have libraries or resource centers to help people find prospective grants.

At UNC, the Research at Carolina office coordinates research support.

The Funding Information Portal offers a collection of databases and proposal development guidance.

The UNC School of Medicine and School of Public Health each have their own Office of Research.

Writing your proposal

The majority of grant programs recruit academic reviewers with knowledge of the disciplines and/or program areas of the grant. Thus, when writing your grant proposals, assume that you are addressing a colleague who is knowledgeable in the general area, but who does not necessarily know the details about your research questions.

Remember that most readers are lazy and will not respond well to a poorly organized, poorly written, or confusing proposal. Be sure to give readers what they want. Follow all the guidelines for the particular grant you are applying for. This may require you to reframe your project in a different light or language. Reframing your project to fit a specific grant’s requirements is a legitimate and necessary part of the process unless it will fundamentally change your project’s goals or outcomes.

Final decisions about which proposals are funded often come down to whether the proposal convinces the reviewer that the research project is well planned and feasible and whether the investigators are well qualified to execute it. Throughout the proposal, be as explicit as possible. Predict the questions that the reviewer may have and answer them. Przeworski and Salomon (1995) note that reviewers read with three questions in mind:

• What are we going to learn as a result of the proposed project that we do not know now? (goals, aims, and outcomes)
• Why is it worth knowing? (significance)
• How will we know that the conclusions are valid? (criteria for success) (2)

Be sure to answer these questions in your proposal. Keep in mind that reviewers may not read every word of your proposal. Your reviewer may only read the abstract, the sections on research design and methodology, the vitae, and the budget. Make these sections as clear and straightforward as possible.

The way you write your grant will tell the reviewers a lot about you (Reif-Lehrer 82). From reading your proposal, the reviewers will form an idea of who you are as a scholar, a researcher, and a person. They will decide whether you are creative, logical, analytical, up-to-date in the relevant literature of the field, and, most importantly, capable of executing the proposed project. Allow your discipline and its conventions to determine the general style of your writing, but allow your own voice and personality to come through. Be sure to clarify your project’s theoretical orientation.

Develop a general proposal and budget

Because most proposal writers seek funding from several different agencies or granting programs, it is a good idea to begin by developing a general grant proposal and budget. This general proposal is sometimes called a “white paper.” Your general proposal should explain your project to a general academic audience. Before you submit proposals to different grant programs, you will tailor a specific proposal to their guidelines and priorities.

Organizing your proposal

Although each funding agency will have its own (usually very specific) requirements, there are several elements of a proposal that are fairly standard, and they often come in the following order:

• Introduction (statement of the problem, purpose of research or goals, and significance of research)

Literature review

• Project narrative (methods, procedures, objectives, outcomes or deliverables, evaluation, and dissemination)
• Budget and budget justification

Format the proposal so that it is easy to read. Use headings to break the proposal up into sections. If it is long, include a table of contents with page numbers.

The title page usually includes a brief yet explicit title for the research project, the names of the principal investigator(s), the institutional affiliation of the applicants (the department and university), name and address of the granting agency, project dates, amount of funding requested, and signatures of university personnel authorizing the proposal (when necessary). Most funding agencies have specific requirements for the title page; make sure to follow them.

The abstract provides readers with their first impression of your project. To remind themselves of your proposal, readers may glance at your abstract when making their final recommendations, so it may also serve as their last impression of your project. The abstract should explain the key elements of your research project in the future tense. Most abstracts state: (1) the general purpose, (2) specific goals, (3) research design, (4) methods, and (5) significance (contribution and rationale). Be as explicit as possible in your abstract. Use statements such as, “The objective of this study is to …”

Introduction

The introduction should cover the key elements of your proposal, including a statement of the problem, the purpose of research, research goals or objectives, and significance of the research. The statement of problem should provide a background and rationale for the project and establish the need and relevance of the research. How is your project different from previous research on the same topic? Will you be using new methodologies or covering new theoretical territory? The research goals or objectives should identify the anticipated outcomes of the research and should match up to the needs identified in the statement of problem. List only the principle goal(s) or objective(s) of your research and save sub-objectives for the project narrative.

Many proposals require a literature review. Reviewers want to know whether you’ve done the necessary preliminary research to undertake your project. Literature reviews should be selective and critical, not exhaustive. Reviewers want to see your evaluation of pertinent works. For more information, see our handout on literature reviews .

Project narrative

The project narrative provides the meat of your proposal and may require several subsections. The project narrative should supply all the details of the project, including a detailed statement of problem, research objectives or goals, hypotheses, methods, procedures, outcomes or deliverables, and evaluation and dissemination of the research.

For the project narrative, pre-empt and/or answer all of the reviewers’ questions. Don’t leave them wondering about anything. For example, if you propose to conduct unstructured interviews with open-ended questions, be sure you’ve explained why this methodology is best suited to the specific research questions in your proposal. Or, if you’re using item response theory rather than classical test theory to verify the validity of your survey instrument, explain the advantages of this innovative methodology. Or, if you need to travel to Valdez, Alaska to access historical archives at the Valdez Museum, make it clear what documents you hope to find and why they are relevant to your historical novel on the ’98ers in the Alaskan Gold Rush.

Clearly and explicitly state the connections between your research objectives, research questions, hypotheses, methodologies, and outcomes. As the requirements for a strong project narrative vary widely by discipline, consult a discipline-specific guide to grant writing for some additional advice.

Explain staffing requirements in detail and make sure that staffing makes sense. Be very explicit about the skill sets of the personnel already in place (you will probably include their Curriculum Vitae as part of the proposal). Explain the necessary skill sets and functions of personnel you will recruit. To minimize expenses, phase out personnel who are not relevant to later phases of a project.

The budget spells out project costs and usually consists of a spreadsheet or table with the budget detailed as line items and a budget narrative (also known as a budget justification) that explains the various expenses. Even when proposal guidelines do not specifically mention a narrative, be sure to include a one or two page explanation of the budget. To see a sample budget, turn to Example #1 at the end of this handout.

Consider including an exhaustive budget for your project, even if it exceeds the normal grant size of a particular funding organization. Simply make it clear that you are seeking additional funding from other sources. This technique will make it easier for you to combine awards down the road should you have the good fortune of receiving multiple grants.

Make sure that all budget items meet the funding agency’s requirements. For example, all U.S. government agencies have strict requirements for airline travel. Be sure the cost of the airline travel in your budget meets their requirements. If a line item falls outside an agency’s requirements (e.g. some organizations will not cover equipment purchases or other capital expenses), explain in the budget justification that other grant sources will pay for the item.

Many universities require that indirect costs (overhead) be added to grants that they administer. Check with the appropriate offices to find out what the standard (or required) rates are for overhead. Pass a draft budget by the university officer in charge of grant administration for assistance with indirect costs and costs not directly associated with research (e.g. facilities use charges).

Furthermore, make sure you factor in the estimated taxes applicable for your case. Depending on the categories of expenses and your particular circumstances (whether you are a foreign national, for example), estimated tax rates may differ. You can consult respective departmental staff or university services, as well as professional tax assistants. For information on taxes on scholarships and fellowships, see https://cashier.unc.edu/student-tax-information/scholarships-fellowships/ .

Explain the timeframe for the research project in some detail. When will you begin and complete each step? It may be helpful to reviewers if you present a visual version of your timeline. For less complicated research, a table summarizing the timeline for the project will help reviewers understand and evaluate the planning and feasibility. See Example #2 at the end of this handout.

For multi-year research proposals with numerous procedures and a large staff, a time line diagram can help clarify the feasibility and planning of the study. See Example #3 at the end of this handout.

Revising your proposal

Strong grant proposals take a long time to develop. Start the process early and leave time to get feedback from several readers on different drafts. Seek out a variety of readers, both specialists in your research area and non-specialist colleagues. You may also want to request assistance from knowledgeable readers on specific areas of your proposal. For example, you may want to schedule a meeting with a statistician to help revise your methodology section. Don’t hesitate to seek out specialized assistance from the relevant research offices on your campus. At UNC, the Odum Institute provides a variety of services to graduate students and faculty in the social sciences.

In your revision and editing, ask your readers to give careful consideration to whether you’ve made explicit the connections between your research objectives and methodology. Here are some example questions:

• Have you presented a compelling case?
• Have you made your hypotheses explicit?
• Does your project seem feasible? Is it overly ambitious? Does it have other weaknesses?
• Have you stated the means that grantors can use to evaluate the success of your project after you’ve executed it?

If a granting agency lists particular criteria used for rating and evaluating proposals, be sure to share these with your own reviewers.

Example #1. Sample Budget

Jet travel $6,100 This estimate is based on the commercial high season rate for jet economy travel on Sabena Belgian Airlines. No U.S. carriers fly to Kigali, Rwanda. Sabena has student fare tickets available which will be significantly less expensive (approximately $2,000).

Maintenance allowance $22,788 Based on the Fulbright-Hays Maintenance Allowances published in the grant application guide.

Research assistant/translator $4,800 The research assistant/translator will be a native (and primary) speaker of Kinya-rwanda with at least a four-year university degree. They will accompany the primary investigator during life history interviews to provide assistance in comprehension. In addition, they will provide commentary, explanations, and observations to facilitate the primary investigator’s participant observation. During the first phase of the project in Kigali, the research assistant will work forty hours a week and occasional overtime as needed. During phases two and three in rural Rwanda, the assistant will stay with the investigator overnight in the field when necessary. The salary of $400 per month is based on the average pay rate for individuals with similar qualifications working for international NGO’s in Rwanda.

Transportation within country, phase one $1,200 The primary investigator and research assistant will need regular transportation within Kigali by bus and taxi. The average taxi fare in Kigali is $6-8 and bus fare is $.15. This figure is based on an average of $10 per day in transportation costs during the first project phase.

Transportation within country, phases two and three $12,000 Project personnel will also require regular transportation between rural field sites. If it is not possible to remain overnight, daily trips will be necessary. The average rental rate for a 4×4 vehicle in Rwanda is $130 per day. This estimate is based on an average of $50 per day in transportation costs for the second and third project phases. These costs could be reduced if an arrangement could be made with either a government ministry or international aid agency for transportation assistance.

Email $720 The rate for email service from RwandaTel (the only service provider in Rwanda) is $60 per month. Email access is vital for receiving news reports on Rwanda and the region as well as for staying in contact with dissertation committee members and advisors in the United States.

Audiocassette tapes $400 Audiocassette tapes will be necessary for recording life history interviews, musical performances, community events, story telling, and other pertinent data.

Photographic & slide film $100 Photographic and slide film will be necessary to document visual data such as landscape, environment, marriages, funerals, community events, etc.

Laptop computer $2,895 A laptop computer will be necessary for recording observations, thoughts, and analysis during research project. Price listed is a special offer to UNC students through the Carolina Computing Initiative.

NUD*IST 4.0 software $373.00 NUD*IST, “Nonnumerical, Unstructured Data, Indexing, Searching, and Theorizing,” is necessary for cataloging, indexing, and managing field notes both during and following the field research phase. The program will assist in cataloging themes that emerge during the life history interviews.

Administrative fee $100 Fee set by Fulbright-Hays for the sponsoring institution.

Example #2: Project Timeline in Table Format

Example #3: Project Timeline in Chart Format

Some closing advice

Some of us may feel ashamed or embarrassed about asking for money or promoting ourselves. Often, these feelings have more to do with our own insecurities than with problems in the tone or style of our writing. If you’re having trouble because of these types of hang-ups, the most important thing to keep in mind is that it never hurts to ask. If you never ask for the money, they’ll never give you the money. Besides, the worst thing they can do is say no.

UNC resources for proposal writing

Research at Carolina http://research.unc.edu

The Odum Institute for Research in the Social Sciences https://odum.unc.edu/

UNC Medical School Office of Research https://www.med.unc.edu/oor

UNC School of Public Health Office of Research http://www.sph.unc.edu/research/

Works consulted

We consulted these works while writing this handout. This is not a comprehensive list of resources on the handout’s topic, and we encourage you to do your own research to find additional publications. Please do not use this list as a model for the format of your own reference list, as it may not match the citation style you are using. For guidance on formatting citations, please see the UNC Libraries citation tutorial . We revise these tips periodically and welcome feedback.

Holloway, Brian R. 2003. Proposal Writing Across the Disciplines. Upper Saddle River, New Jersey: Prentice Hall.

Levine, S. Joseph. “Guide for Writing a Funding Proposal.” http://www.learnerassociates.net/proposal/ .

Locke, Lawrence F., Waneen Wyrick Spirduso, and Stephen J. Silverman. 2014. Proposals That Work . Thousand Oaks, CA: Sage.

Przeworski, Adam, and Frank Salomon. 2012. “Some Candid Suggestions on the Art of Writing Proposals.” Social Science Research Council. https://s3.amazonaws.com/ssrc-cdn2/art-of-writing-proposals-dsd-e-56b50ef814f12.pdf .

Reif-Lehrer, Liane. 1989. Writing a Successful Grant Application . Boston: Jones and Bartlett Publishers.

Wiggins, Beverly. 2002. “Funding and Proposal Writing for Social Science Faculty and Graduate Student Research.” Chapel Hill: Howard W. Odum Institute for Research in Social Science. 2 Feb. 2004. http://www2.irss.unc.edu/irss/shortcourses/wigginshandouts/granthandout.pdf.

You may reproduce it for non-commercial use if you use the entire handout and attribute the source: The Writing Center, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill

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Need editing and proofreading services, narrative essay | step-by-step guide with examples.

• Tags: Academic Writing , Essay , Essay Writing

The narrative essay is a unique and creative form of academic writing. It tests your ability to narrate personal anecdotes in a structured, meaningful, and engaging manner. This type of writing vastly differs from other academic writing types, which rely more on facts and statistics. 

In this article, we’re going to understand what is a narrative essay, how to write one, and its various types with the help of plenty of examples. We have also provided a narrative essay outline to help you craft a foolproof essay. But before we get into all of that, let’s start with something simple: what’s a narrative essay in the first place?

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What is a narrative essay?

A narrative essay is a highly creative form of academic writing which involves recounting personal anecdotes in an organized and climactic format. Although not as frequently used as expository essays or argumentative essays , this type of essay is a common requirement in high schools and creative writing courses in colleges. A personal statement is also a common requirement for many college admissions. 

A narrative essay uses literary devices such as similes, metaphors, and alliteration that add depth and character to your essay. The objective is to express yourself in a creative and compelling way, and not just convey information.

Now that you understand the narrative essay definition, it’s time to look at some common topics you may have to write on.

Topics for a narrative essay

Narrative essay topics can range from a personal narrative and specific essay topics to loose open-ended prompts. Let’s better understand this with the help of a few good narrative essay topics.

Here are a few topics. 

1. Write about your last day of school.

2. Write about your favorite book and your interpretation of its message.

3. An awkward encounter that led to a long-lasting friendship.

4. Your favorite vacation.

5. The moment you realized, you’re finally an adult.

Here are a few narrative essay examples of open-ended prompts.

1. Describe a life changing event and how it impacted you.

2. What is your favorite childhood memory? 

3. A personal accomplishment that you are proud of and how it has shaped you as a person.

4. The time when you overcame a fear or obstacle and how it helped you grow as a person.

5. A moment of personal growth and reflection that helped you realize something important about yourself.

Here are a few personal narrative essay topics.

1. The moment you realized what you wanted to do with your life.

2. A time when you felt like an outsider and how you dealt with it.

3. A moment when you had to make a difficult moral decision.

4. An experience that changed your perspective on a particular issue.

5. A personal passion or interest and how it has impacted your life.

Narrative essay structure

Although less formulaic than an expository or argumentative essay, your narrative essay format still needs to be well-structured and cohesive for it to be impactful. Like all essay types, the narrative format essay consists of an introduction, body paragraphs, and a concluding paragraph. However, this structure is less rigid than most essay types and mainly serves as a guideline. 

Let’s look at the main components of the structure of a narrative essay.

1. Introduction

In order to write a well-structured narrative essay, you need to know how to start it. The introduction of a narrative essay plays a crucial role in capturing the reader’s attention and setting the stage for the story that follows. 

A good introduction should include three key elements. First, an attractive, eye-catching opening statement that intrigues the reader and creates suspense. Second, background information that provides context for the story. Finally, a central idea or narrative that serves as a foundation of the story. 

Here are examples of a narrative essay introduction:

• Background information
• Central idea

As I stepped off the plane and took my first breath of the humid air, I knew my life was about to change forever. The next few weeks would be filled with new experiences, new people, and a new perspective that would stay with me for a long time. My study trip to Costa Rica was an unforgettable experience that had a significant impact on me.

2. Body paragraph

You can showcase most of your creative writing skills in the body paragraphs of your narrative essay. Use a topic sentence to introduce each experience, provide detailed elaboration, and conclude with a key takeaway or moral.

The body paragraphs of a narrative essay are also used to showcase numerous artistic elements. These elements may include the introduction of fresh characters, vivid descriptions of settings, subtle hints toward the conclusion, and the build-up of a pivotal event or a climactic situation. You can use these elements to transform a boring piece of writing into an impactful and captivating essay. 

Here’s an example of a vivid and highly descriptive body paragraph:

• Topic sentence with descriptions of setting
• Sensory descriptors elaborating the topic sentences
• Key takeaway

The moment I set foot on Central American soil, I was welcomed by the tropical rainforest, the vibrant colors of the flowers, and the sounds of exotic birds. The air was filled with the sweet scent of fresh fruits, and I could feel the warmth of the sun on my skin. This trip was not only a cultural and educational experience, but it was also an adventure of a lifetime.

3. Conclusion

When writing the conclusion of a narrative essay, it’s important to include three essential elements: an updated version of your thesis statement, reflections on all your experiences, and your final thoughts and key takeaways. 

You can remind your readers of the central idea you explored throughout your essay, by revisiting your thesis statement. Reflecting on your experiences allows you to explore the personal impact of your narrative. Whereas, your final thoughts help in providing a cohesive and impactful summary of your message.

Here’s an example of a strong conclusion:

• Updated thesis statement
• Reflections on experiences
• Final thought

My study trip to Costa Rica was certainly a transformative experience. This trip taught me how to approach the world with an open mind and strive in the face of difficulties. It also inspired me to live a more sustainable lifestyle. Experiencing the rich culture of Costa Rica is something I would highly recommend to all students. It’s an opportunity to break free from our comfort zones, challenge our perspectives, and immerse ourselves in a world of stunning natural beauty.  

Now that we’ve looked at how to structure a narrative essay, let’s move on to writing a narrative essay.

How to write a narrative essay

Writing narrative essays is not just about telling a captivating story, but also about communicating a message to the reader. Although less formal than other types of essays, it still requires a coherent sequence of events, a clear central idea, a moral or message, and a structured outline.

Let’s understand how to write a narrative essay step by step. 

1. Choose an appropriate topic.

While essay topics are often predetermined, certain classes may give you the freedom to select your own topic. When choosing a topic for your narrative essay, it is crucial to consider the message that you want to convey. 

Simply recounting a one-dimensional, uneventful story can bore the reader. It is necessary to keep the reader in mind and choose an engaging story topic. This topic should encompass surprising plot twists, a recurring theme, and a significant takeaway or moral.

Here are a few examples of narrative essay topics for college:

Describe a moment in your life that challenged your beliefs or values and forced you to reconsider your perspective.

Describe a time in your life when you faced a difficult decision that required you to choose between two equally compelling options.

2. Form a central idea.

Your narrative essay should revolve around a central idea or theme, which is similar to a thesis statement. This idea should be unique and have a moral or message that sets the tone for your entire essay. Keep in mind that the central idea is crucial to your essay, so choose one carefully and make sure it’s unique and impactful.

Here are a few examples of central ideas:

Growing up as a first-generation immigrant, I faced several setbacks. But these setbacks motivated me to overcome language barriers and also taught me the value of hard work, and determination.

My journey of learning a new language in a foreign country challenged me in ways I never imagined. However, it also taught me the importance of persistence, adaptability, and embracing discomfort to achieve personal growth and success.

3. Construct an essay outline. 

While a narrative essay allows for a great deal of creative expression, it still sticks to a loose structure that includes a clear beginning, middle, and end. A well-organized narrative allows readers to follow and understand your story. Before writing your essay it’s crucial to answer key questions in your narrative essay outline. 

Here are a few questions you need to answer before starting your essay:

• What central idea or message do I want to convey through my essay?
• Which personal experiences and anecdotes will best support my central idea?
• In what ways can I incorporate dialogues or other creative expressions to enhance my essay?
• How can I effectively structure my essay to ensure it flows cohesively and logically?
• What techniques can I use to build up to a climactic end that leaves a lasting impression on the reader?
• What key takeaway do I want my audience to have after reading my essay?

4. Begin writing your essay.

The narrative essay differs from other forms of essay writing and typically follows a chronological order. Hence, it’s advisable to start by fleshing out your introduction and providing sufficient background information to give relevance to your central idea.

Written in the first-person point of view, the narrative essay shares several similarities with a short story. These include a clear plot structure with a beginning, middle, and end, vivid and detailed settings, a climactic point or peak, dialogues, and a key takeaway or moral. These elements can be incorporated to add depth and dimension to your essay.

Narrative essay outline

An outline for a narrative essay differs significantly from that of an evidence-based essay. The narrative essay outline provides structure and coherence to your essay, helping you map out a clear and logical flow of your ideas. This can guide your writing and help ensure that your story is well-organized, engaging, and effectively conveys your central message.

Here’s an example of a personal narrative essay outline that focuses on the challenges of low self-esteem and the ways to overcome them.

Journey to Self-Acceptance

I. Introduction

A. Hook: Start with an anecdote or a shocking statistic that highlights the rampantness of low self-esteem.

B. Background information: Explain what low self-esteem is, how it affects people, and how it can manifest in different ways.

C. Thesis statement: Describe your challenges with low self-esteem and how you overcame them.

II. Tackling Challenges

A. Describe the situation that challenged your self-esteem, such as a particular event or a persistent feeling.

B. Explain how it affected your life, such as your relationships, academic and professional performance, or your mental health.

C. Share your thoughts and feelings about the situation, and how they contributed to your low self-esteem.

III. Seeking Help

A. Describe how you recognized that you needed help, and what motivated you to seek it.

B. Discuss the steps you took, such as talking to a friend or therapist.

C. Explain the challenges you faced, such as stigma, fear of judgment, or financial barriers.

IV. Building Self-Esteem

A. Describe the strategies you used to build your self-esteem, such as positive self-talk, affirmations, or therapy.

B. Share your progress, and how you measured it, such as tracking your thoughts, feelings, or behaviors.

C. Explain how these strategies helped you, and how they impacted your life, such as improved relationships, academic or professional success, or mental health.

V. Maintaining Self-Esteem

A. Describe how you maintain your self-esteem on a daily basis, and what routines or habits you have developed.

B. Share your challenges and setbacks, and how you cope with them.

C. Explain the importance of self-care in maintaining self-esteem, and what self-care practices you use.

VI. Conclusion

A. Summarize the key points of your essay, and what you have learned from them.

B. Restate your thesis, and how you successfully overcame the challenge of low self-esteem.

C. Discuss how the experience has impacted your life, and what advice you would give to someone who is struggling with low self-esteem.

Narrative essay examples

To guide you in writing a foolproof narrative essay, we’ve constructed an example of a narrative essay. The following is a personal narrative essay example that explores the challenges faced by a student who was bullied in school. This personal narrative essay example will guide you on how you write a personal narrative essay.

Beyond the Shadows

Starting high school as a timid and shy kid was a daunting experience for me. I craved new opportunities and friendships but was overcome by the fear of being judged. Unfortunately, my fears soon became a reality as I found myself being relentlessly bullied.

It began with verbal abuse but soon escalated to physical aggression. Consulting my teachers was of no help since they did not understand the gravity of the situation. The only option was to ignore the bullies and concentrate on my classes, but the constant harassment made it difficult.

The bullying soon took its toll on my mental health, and I spiraled into a pit of anxiety and depression. I lost faith in myself and I believed I was undeserving of happiness. I retreated from my loved ones and spent my days battling my inner demons.

Despite the pain and anguish, I still decided to hold onto hope. I realized that standing up for myself and others was the only way to combat the bullying. I began speaking out against the harassment and also spoke up for those who were scared to raise their voice.

In an attempt to break out of my shell, I made a conscious effort to socialize with my fellow students and offered support to those going through a tough time. As a result, I encountered several friends who had shared experiences with mine. We bonded over our shared struggles and formed a tight-knit community of support and solidarity. Together, we worked to raise awareness of the devastating impact of bullying.

With time and effort, I began to heal from the trauma of my experiences. I learned to embrace my unique qualities and appreciate myself for who I am. The challenges I faced made me stronger and more resilient. As a result, I became more outgoing and confident, which allowed me to forge genuine friendships with my peers.

The bullying I experienced during high school transformed me in ways I could never have imagined. It instilled in me the value of empathy and courage and compelled me to use my voice to create positive change in the world.

Once you’re done writing your narrative essay, the process of editing and proofreading still remains. You can either choose to do this on your own or consider working with an essay editing service .  

Keep reading with more resources from your loyal editors and proofreaders:

• What is an Expository Essay?
• What are the Different Types of Essays
• What is an Essay and What are the Parts of an Essay
• How to Write an Essay Header
• How to Write an Argumentative Essay 

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very good https://kabarcikpatiler.com/

your narrative essays have excellent introductions. They are really helpful

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Narrative Essay

Narrative Essay Examples

10+ Interesting Narrative Essay Examples Plus Writing Tips!

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Narrative Essay - A Complete Writing Guide with Examples

Writing a Personal Narrative Essay: Everything You Need to Know

Best Narrative Essay Topics 2024 for Students

Crafting a Winning Narrative Essay Outline: A Step-by-Step Guide

Many students struggle with crafting engaging and impactful narrative essays. They often find it challenging to weave their personal experiences into coherent and compelling stories.

If you’re having a hard time, don't worry! 

We’ve compiled a range of narrative essay examples that will serve as helpful tools for you to get started. These examples will provide a clear path for crafting engaging and powerful narrative essays.

So, keep reading and find our expertly written examples!

• 1. Narrative Essay Definition
• 2. Narrative Essay Examples
• 3. Narrative Essay Examples for Students
• 4. Narrative Essay Topics
• 5. Narrative Essay Writing Tips

Narrative Essay Definition

Writing a narrative essay is a unique form of storytelling that revolves around personal experiences, aiming to immerse the reader in the author's world. It's a piece of writing that delves into the depths of thoughts and feelings. 

In a narrative essay, life experiences take center stage, serving as the main substance of the story. It's a powerful tool for writers to convey a personal journey, turning experiences into a captivating tale. This form of storytelling is an artful display of emotions intended to engage readers, leaving the reader feeling like they are a part of the story.

By focusing on a specific theme, event, emotions, and reflections, a narrative essay weaves a storyline that leads the reader through the author's experiences. 

The Essentials of Narrative Essays

Let's start with the basics. The four types of essays are argumentative essays , descriptive essays , expository essays , and narrative essays.

The goal of a narrative essay is to tell a compelling tale from one person's perspective. A narrative essay uses all components you’d find in a typical story, such as a beginning, middle, and conclusion, as well as plot, characters, setting, and climax.

The narrative essay's goal is the plot, which should be detailed enough to reach a climax. Here's how it works:

• It's usually presented in chronological order.
• It has a function. This is typically evident in the thesis statement's opening paragraph.
• It may include speech.
• It's told with sensory details and vivid language, drawing the reader in. All of these elements are connected to the writer's major argument in some way.

Before writing your essay, make sure you go through a sufficient number of narrative essay examples. These examples will help you in knowing the dos and don’ts of a good narrative essay.

It is always a better option to have some sense of direction before you start anything. Below, you can find important details and a bunch of narrative essay examples. These examples will also help you build your content according to the format. 

Here is a how to start a narrative essay example:

Sample Narrative Essay

The examples inform the readers about the writing style and structure of the narration. The essay below will help you understand how to create a story and build this type of essay in no time.

Here is another narrative essay examples 500 words:

Narrative Essay Examples for Students

Narrative essays offer students a platform to express their experiences and creativity. These examples show how to effectively structure and present personal stories for education.

Here are some helpful narrative essay examples:

Narrative Essay Examples Middle School

Narrative Essay Examples for Grade 7

Narrative Essay Examples for Grade 8

Grade 11 Narrative Essay Examples

Narrative Essay Example For High School

Narrative Essay Example For College

Personal Narrative Essay Example

Descriptive Narrative Essay Example

3rd Person Narrative Essay Example

Narrative Essay Topics

Here are some narrative essay topics to help you get started with your narrative essay writing.

• When I got my first bunny
• When I moved to Canada
• I haven’t experienced this freezing temperature ever before
• The moment I won the basketball finale
• A memorable day at the museum
• How I talk to my parrot
• The day I saw the death
• When I finally rebelled against my professor

Need more topics? Check out these extensive narrative essay topics to get creative ideas!

Narrative Essay Writing Tips

Narrative essays give you the freedom to be creative, but it can be tough to make yours special. Use these tips to make your story interesting:

• Share your story from a personal viewpoint, engaging the reader with your experiences.
• Use vivid descriptions to paint a clear picture of the setting, characters, and emotions involved.
• Organize events in chronological order for a smooth and understandable narrative.
• Bring characters to life through their actions, dialogue, and personalities.
• Employ dialogue sparingly to add realism and progression to the narrative.
• Engage readers by evoking emotions through your storytelling.
• End with reflection or a lesson learned from the experience, providing insight.

Now you have essay examples and tips to help you get started, you have a solid starting point for crafting compelling narrative essays.

However, if storytelling isn't your forte, you can always turn to our essay service for help.

Our writers are specialists who can tackle any type of essay with great skill. With their experience, you get a top-quality, 100% plagiarism-free essay everytime.

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• How To Write a Narrative Essay: Guide With Examples
• Learn English
• James Prior
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• Updated December 12, 2023

Welcome to the creative world of narrative essays where you get to become the storyteller and craft your own narrative. In this article, we’ll break down how to write a narrative essay, covering the essential elements and techniques that you need to know.

Table of Contents

What is a Narrative Essay?

A narrative essay is a form of writing where the author recounts a personal experience or story. Unlike other types of essays, a narrative essay allows you to share a real-life event or sequence of events, often drawing from personal insights and emotions.

In a narrative essay, you take on the role of a storyteller, employing vivid details and descriptive language to transport the reader into the world of your story. The narrative often unfolds in chronological order, guiding the audience through a journey of experiences, reflections, and sometimes, a lesson learned.

The success of a narrative essay lies in your ability to create a compelling narrative arc. This means establishing a clear beginning, middle, and end. This structure helps build suspense, maintain the reader’s interest, and deliver a cohesive and impactful story. Ultimately, a well-crafted narrative essay not only narrates an event but also communicates the deeper meaning or significance behind the experience, making it a powerful and memorable piece of writing and leaving a lasting impression on the reader.

Types of Narrative Essays

Narrative essays come in various forms, each with unique characteristics. The most common type of narrative essay are personal narrative essays where you write about a personal experience. This can cover a whole range of topics as these examples of personal narrative essays illustrate. As a student in school or college, you’ll often be asked to write these types of essays. You may also need to write them later in life when applying for jobs and describing your past experiences.

However, this isn’t the only type of narrative essay. There are also fictional narrative essays that you can write using your imagination, and various subject specific narrative essays that you might have come across without even realizing it.

So, it’s worth knowing about the different types of narrative essays and what they each focus on before we move on to how to write them.

Here are some common types of narrative essays:

• Focus on a personal experience or event from the author’s life.
• Use the first-person perspective to convey the writer’s emotions and reflections.
• Can take many forms, from science fiction and fantasy to adventure and romance.
• Spark the imagination to create captivating stories.
• Provide a detailed account of the author’s life, often covering a significant timespan.
• Explore key life events, achievements, challenges, and personal growth.
• Reflect on the writer’s experiences with language, reading, or writing.
• Explore how these experiences have shaped the writer’s identity and skills
• Document the author’s experiences and insights gained from a journey or travel.
• Describe places visited, people encountered, and the lessons learned during the trip.
• Explore historical events or periods through a personal lens.
• Combine factual information with the writer’s perspective and experiences.

The narrative essay type you’ll work with often depends on the purpose, audience, and nature of the story being told. So, how should you write narrative essays?

How To Write Narrative Essays

From selecting the right topic to building a captivating storyline, we explore the basics to guide you in creating engaging narratives. So, grab your pen, and let’s delve into the fundamentals of writing a standout narrative essay.

Before we start, it’s worth pointing out that most narrative essays are written in the first-person. Through the use of first-person perspective, you get to connect with the reader, offering a glimpse into your thoughts, reactions, and the significance of the story being shared.

Let’s get into how to create these stories:

Write your plot

If you want to tell a compelling story you need a good plot. Your plot will give your story a structure. Every good story includes some kind of conflict. You should start with setting the scene for readers. After this, you introduce a challenge or obstacle. Readers will keep reading until the end to find out how you managed to overcome it.

Your story should reach a climax where tension is highest. This will be the turning point that leads to a resolution. For example, moving outside of your comfort zone was difficult and scary. It wasn’t easy at first but eventually, you grew braver and more confident. Readers should discover more about who you are as a person through what they read.

A seasoned writer knows how to craft a story that connects with an audience and creates an impact.

Hook readers with your introduction

In your introduction, you will introduce the main idea of your essay and set the context. Ways to make it more engaging are to:

• Use sensory images to describe the setting in which your story takes place.
• Use a quote that illustrates your main idea.
• Pose an intriguing question.
• Introduce an unexpected fact or a statement that grabs attention.

Develop your characters

You need to make readers feel they know any characters you introduce in your narrative essay. You can do this by revealing their personalities and quirks through the actions they take. It is always better to show the actions of characters rather than giving facts about them. Describing a character’s body language and features can also reveal a great deal about the person. You can check out these adjectives to describe a person to get some inspiration.

Use dialogue

Dialogue can bring your narrative essay to life. Most fiction books use dialogue extensively . It helps to move the story along in a subtle way. When you allow characters to talk, what they have to say seems more realistic. You can use similes , metaphors, and other parts of speech to make your story more compelling. Just make sure the dialogue is written clearly with the right punctuation so readers understand exactly who is talking.

Work on the pace of the story

Your story must flow along at a steady pace. If there’s too much action, readers may get confused. If you use descriptive writing, try not to overdo it. The clear, concise language throughout will appeal to readers more than lengthy descriptions.

Build up towards a climax

This is the point at which the tension in your story is the highest. A compelling climax takes readers by surprise. They may not have seen it coming. This doesn’t mean your climax should come out of left field. You need to carefully lead up to it step by step and guide readers along. When you reveal it they should be able to look back and realize it’s logical.

Cut out what you don’t need

Your story will suffer if you include too much detail that doesn’t move your story along. It may flow better once you cut out some unnecessary details. Most narrative essays are about five paragraphs but this will depend on the topic and requirements.

In a narrative essay, you share your experiences and insights. The journey you take your readers on should leave them feeling moved or inspired. It takes practice to learn how to write in a way that causes this reaction. With a good plot as your guide, it’s easier to write a compelling story that flows toward a satisfying resolution.

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Narrative Essay Guide

Narrative Essay Outline

Last updated on: Feb 9, 2023

How to Write a Narrative Essay Outline - Tips & Examples

By: Nathan D.

Reviewed By: Melisa C.

Published on: Jun 2, 2020

A narrative essay is a type of academic essay in which the writer narrates a story. It is the most commonly assigned form of academic writing. Students have to face the narrative essay writing task quite often, so it is essential to know how to handle it. 

A narrative essay is a story, so it's important to know how to write one. The best way to start your outline is by brainstorming ideas.

Who are the characters? What do they want? How does this conflict with their goals and who wins in the end?

There are many different types of essays you can write about, but all will have some sort of conflict. Once you've figured out the basics, be creative! You could explore an event that happened in your life or tell a fictional story.

In this blog, you’ll learn to write an outline for a narrative essay with examples. Start reading!

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A  narrative essay  is a type of academic essay in which the writer narrates a story. It is the most commonly assigned form of academic writing. Students have to face the narrative essay writing task quite often, so it is essential to know how to handle it.

Narrative Essay Outline Format

The narrative essay outline follows the standard structure. Like other types of essays, this essay normally follows a typical 5 paragraph essay format. The 5 paragraph outline includes one introduction paragraph, three body paragraphs, and one conclusion paragraph.

However, unlike other essays, the paragraphs of the narrative essay have specifically designated purposes:

1. Introduction Paragraph:  Gives an insight into the story

2. First Body Paragraph:  Discuss the rising action

3. Second Body Paragraph:  Present the climax of the story

4. Third Body Paragraph:  Provide the falling action

5. Conclusion Paragraph:  Discussion of the lesson learned from the story

Paragraph Narrative Essay Outline Template

Let's look at the detailed 5 paragraph narrative essay outline for college students.

How to Write a Narrative Essay Outline?

A narrative essay is all about sharing the stories. Therefore, you need to organize your story into an essay format. As a writer, you are supposed to tell a story from your personal experience and why you are sharing that specific experience. Later, you need to discuss why this story or experience is important to share.

Let's look at how to craft an outline for a narrative essay. Follow the steps in the same sequence, and at the end, you’ll get a perfect outline. The writing process will become less stressful and daunting if you follow the steps given below.

1. Write the Introduction

The introduction paragraph is meant to engage the reader with the story. The first paragraph plays the most crucial role in making an impression on the reader’s mind. It allows you to share your perspective and how it relates to you. The following elements are involved in writing a strong narrative essay introduction.

• Create a Hook Statement  Draw the reader in with an intriguing and attention-grabbing hook statement. Create a strong hook that makes your reader want to read further. You can use a quote, rhetorical question, or fact to create a persuasive hook statement.
• Set the Scene:  Give your reader an idea of what is going to happen. Do not tell the whole story; just give a glimpse into it and keep your reader intrigued. Tell the reader how the points of the story relate to you.
• Define the Thesis Statement:  Finally, tell your reader what your story is all about with the help of a thesis statement. Give a sneak peek of what is about to come but avoid telling the lesson you have learned from the situation yet; just give a hint.

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2. Draft the Body Paragraphs

The main body of a narrative essay is the most important part because it tells the whole story. This is where you state the facts, provide examples, give details, and guide the reader through the plot. According to the five paragraphs essay structure, it has three body paragraphs, but it can depend on the length and word count.

Below elements must be kept in mind while writing the narrative essay body paragraphs:

• Write Chronologically:  The timelines of a story should be presented in chronological order. Otherwise, the reader will get confused, and it becomes hard for them to understand the story. To keep your paper organized, you should present things in sequential order.
• Share the Relevant and Vivid Details:  As a narrative essay is all about creating a mood and scene to follow, do that creatively. Set up the story with descriptive and concise language. Provide the reader with the most important details of your story. These details may include the characters, setting, plot, and the onset of the story.
• Avoid Narration Deviation:  The narrative essay is usually written in the first person unless you share someone else’s story. The third-person narrative only works best when you are telling a story you heard from someone else.

3. Write a Compelling Conclusion

The conclusion paragraph is the final section of the essay where you give some final comments about the story. Summarize your essay and connect your reader back to the story. Follow these steps to write an impressive conclusion.

• Restate Some Key Details:  Restate the thesis statement and some key details you have shared in the body. It will help you connect your reader with your story.
• Share the Lesson:  Stress the lesson you have learned from the story and leave the reader with something to think about.
• Call to Action:  In the end, provide a call to action that convinces the reader to think more about the topic.

Narrative Essay Outline Worksheet

Use the given worksheet below to write a narrative essay with ease.

Narrative Essay Outline Example

Here are some  narrative essay examples  and samples for your convenience. Use these templates and learn to write a good narrative essay easily.

Narrative Essay Outline for Middle School

College Narrative Essay Outline

Personal Narrative Essay Outline Template

Descriptive Narrative Essay Outline

Literacy Narrative Essay Outline

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However, if you still have some concerns about writing a perfect outline, you can contact our essay writers. 5StarEssays.com is a legit and reliable ‘ write my essay for me? ’ service that provides you with highly qualified and professional writers.

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Literature, College Essay

Nathan completed his Ph.D. in journalism and has been writing articles for well-respected publications for many years now. His work is carefully researched and insightful, showing a true passion for the written word. Nathan's clients appreciate his expertise, deep understanding of the process, and ability to communicate difficult concepts clearly.

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How to Write a Good Narrative Essay: Tips, Examples, & Step-by-Step Guide

How to write a narrative essay? To do that, you need to know what a narrative essay is. It is an academic text usually written as a story and containing all the usual elements of a story. Narrative essays are often personal, experiential, and creative. Still, they should be made according to the rules of academic writing.

Want to know how to write a good narrative essay for college or middle school? In this guide by Custom Writing experts, you’ll find a step-by-step guide, narrative essay examples, advice on choosing a topic, outlining and writing your text, as well as useful narrative essay tips.

❔ What Makes a Good Narrative Essay?

• 👣 Narrative Writing Guide
• 💡 Writing Tips

🔗 References

A narrative essay is usually a story about your own or somebody’s experience. We tell stories every day. So, when you ask “How to write a narrative essay,” you should think of a story you want to write about. Stories don’t need to be very accurate. They should be engaging, that is their most important quality. If written as a story, your narrative essay should contain all the necessary parts of it: an introduction, a rising action, a climax, a falling action, and a denouement.

Check out information below to learn what each part of a good narrative essay includes:

📌 Introduction

The introduction of a narrative essay consists of exposition and conflict:

• The exposition presents the setting (time and place), characters, and mood.
• The conflict is the main problem that drives the plot. It is an internal or external challenge the main character faces.

📌 Rising action

The rising action includes the events that lead up to the climax. They usually make the issue worse.

The climax is a turning point in the plot. It is the moment when opposing forces confront each other, make significant decisions, or take action.

📌 Falling action

The falling action refers to the events that occur after the climax, such as character development, answers to key questions, etc.

📌 Denouement

The denouement, also known as resolution, reveals how things turn out in the end, leaving readers with questions, answers, frustration, or satisfaction.

👣 How to Write a Good Narrative Essay

Below are five simple writing steps for a narrative essay. Here are simple things you should do before you start writing your story:

• Think about your narrative essay topic and how your life experience correlates with it. Even a small fact, idea, or goal can become a good story idea.
• Think about your emotions. The more passionate you will be – the more effective your assignment.
• Recall your story’s details : people and objects, setting, and season. Think about the sequence of events and remember; no detail is too small. Remember: the small details reveal big ideas!

Step 1. Choose Your Narrative Essay Topic

If you are free to select your own topic for a narrative essay, you still need to read what is expected from you carefully and to follow the requirements stated in the assignment. These are the most common characteristics of a narrative essay for college students to mind when choosing a topic:

• A challenge or conflict: an exciting or dangerous incident that creates suspense.
• A protagonist: a character facing the challenge or conflict as mentioned above. If you are not the protagonist and the story is a third-person, it is better to choose a relatable character.
• Evolution, growth, and change: when protagonists live through a conflict or challenge, their personality changes. Difficulties spark insights that may be used as a moral of the story.

To come up with a successful narrative topic, brainstorm the following directions of thought:

• Think of a problem that bothers you and you’d like to share
• Have you had any memorable experiences that have changed your view on life?
• What kind of stories raises your interest? You can invent something similar.

Step 2. Make Your Narrative Essay Outline

A narrative essay is a less formal kind of academic paper. Still, it shall also conform with arrangement rules. This outline template will help you structure a narrative essay according to the traditional format.

Narrative Essay Outline

• Background information about the protagonist
• Thesis statement
• Setting (place and time)
• Preceding events
• Secondary characters
• Action and culmination
• Outcome or morale
• Summary of main events
• Thesis restatement

Narrative Essay Introduction

The components of an introduction are:

• Hook. Your narration needs to be moving, personal, and reflective. But in the first place, you shall engage your reader with the story. A hook sets the necessary tone from the beginning. An intriguing revelation or confession is the best choice here.
• Background. Who is the protagonist of your story? Additional information helps the reader to put themselves into your shoes.
• Thesis . It is an argumentative sentence where you specify the point of the piece of writing.

Narrative Essay Body

The components of a body are:

• Setting. Make a visual and emotional description that suggests what experiences you will share. State when and where the action takes place.
• Preceding events. In continuation of the previous point, sketch the circumstances under which the scenario unfolds.
• Characters. Describe the secondary characters of your story.
• Action and climax. Use the chronological order format throughout the main part. All the events shall culminate with a climax, the most emotional point of the plot.
• Morale. What was the result of everything described above? What lessons can be learned from your story?

Narrative Essay Conclusion

The components of a conclusion are:

• Summarizing paragraph . List the key points of your narration.
• Thesis restatement. Reiterating your purpose in different words relating to the content of the main body finalizes your paper.

Step 3. Write Your Narrative Essay Introduction

Well, you have chosen the topic of your future writing and created your narrative essay outline. What’s next? Start writing your narrative essay with an introduction.

The introduction is an important part of your essay paper as it grabs the reader’s attention. And here are some basic guidelines for a narrative essay introduction.

• Start with an introductory phrase. It has to be short and catchy. An unexpected point of view is always interesting to get acquainted with.
• State the thesis. It doesn’t need to be as formal as in other types of academic papers. However, it’s worth saying a couple of words on why you decided to tell this particular story to the reader.
• Write supporting sentences. Give reasons why the story you are sharing is significant.
• Remember that the reader was not there when the story happened. He (or she)  is trying to catch up with it while reading. Be polite and thoughtful, don’t get into useless details or get swept away by the story, leaving your reader wondering and wandering.

Step 4. Create Your Narrative Essay Body

Your entire story is concentrated in body paragraphs: from three to as many as you wish.

Check the general guidelines on how to write a good narrative body!

• Provide one idea per paragraph. Don’t try to put too many details in each of the logical parts.
• Follow some logical pattern when presenting your narrative. Chronological is the easiest one.
• Search for your personal writing style. It can be philosophical (careful! That requires specific knowledge), ironical, critical, romantic. Whatever you choose, it has to be you from top to bottom. The writing style is like an autograph. Work on it.

Step 5. Make a Narrative Essay Conclusion

You’re almost there. You just need to write good concluding sentences for your essay.

The conclusion is as important as an introduction. It leaves the aftertaste. Here you should make some final comments about your narrative. Restate some of the essential ideas and details and mention the most important lessons learned from your shared experience.

How to End a Narrative Essay?

• Summarize. If you don’t like summarizing, or it doesn’t fit the style of the story, wrap it up with a rhetorical question or plans for the future.
• Give your readers an idea. Think about the central message of the story and remind them of it.
• Leave your readers experiencing a pleasant aftertaste. Give them a feeling that they need to sit back and think about the problems you brought up.

Step 6. Revise & Format Your Narrative Essay

Huh! You’ve done it. You finished the assignment. Now take a deep breath, go for a walk, or have some sleep. And then revise it. Here are some questions you should keep in mind when you review, reorganize, and modify your narrative essay to make it the best possible.

If you have any questions on how to format your narrative essay in MLA or APA, use our complete citation style guidebook .

Narrative Essay Checklist

• Does the reader easily understand the progression of events? Do the transitions confuse or facilitate your readers?
• Do I involve my readers in my experience? Should I add some details or remove extraneous ones that distract the attention?
• How adequately did I convey the primary message of the essay? Does the experience described and its significance to me have a connection?

By the way, do you know which part of the writing process is usually the most underestimated? Proofreading . At this point, you should check and correct punctuation and grammar mistakes, improve clarity, and writing style. Ask your friend to read your narrative paper. You’ll get a fresh look at your writing.

📚 Narrative Essay Topics

If you need specific ideas to write your story about, explore the following narrative essay topics:

• The most exciting day of your life.
• A serious life lesson you learned. 
• A rebellious act that made a change. 
• A revelation that made you a different kind of person. 
• A moment you took a stand for yourself.
• A situation when you protected someone.
• An exciting discovery.
• A moment when you had to overcome fear .
• A dangerous situation you managed to escape.
• What type of learner are you?
• Detail how you used to handle stress at high school.
• Describe the situation that helped you to understand the notion of race and ethnicity.
• Discuss your experience of keeping to a financial plan .
• Outline the day you attended court and how it influenced you.
• Describe your experience of riding a bicycle .
• Detail the parenting style of your parents and its impact on your personality.
• Tell about the day you or your friend tried challenging gender norms.
• Discuss your experience with writing.
• Describe your traveling experience and the lessons you learned thanks to it.
• Narrate how getting a degree changed your life.
• Give details about your visit to a jazz concert.
• What was the most embarrassing episode in your life?
• Describe the peculiarities of the celebration of the traditional Thai New Year.
• Tell a story that illustrates the influence of culture on human life.
• Discuss the challenges you’ve faced when buying your first laptop .
• Specify the situation when you faced racism.
• What was the most memorable event in your childhood?
• Write about your experience of trying dance movement therapy and its results. 
• Describe the case when you had a conflict and how you managed to resolve it.
• Your experience of learning English.
• Tell about your high school challenges and how you overcame them.
• Give details about your experience of a cover conflict .
• Recall and describe the moment of happiness .
• Depict the last live concert you visited and the impression it made.   
• Write about your job experience.
• Describe your visit to Australia and what you’ve learned from it.
• Detail your experience of starting college and how it changed your life.
• Tell about your first date .
• Explain how a vacation in Mexico City added to your life experience.
• Discuss the effect of the logic course on your life.
• Describe your experience of bullying and its impact on your life.
• Give details about your experience of global lockdown and how it changed your life values.
• Tell a story that shows the role of technology in your life.
• How was your first day at college?
• Describe the most memorable event that had a positive impact on your life .
• Narrate the story that happened to you on Christmas. 
• How did you meet your best friend ?
• Write about the case of jealousy in friendship and how you managed to cope with it.
• Describe your experience of adopting a cat from Humane Society.
• Tell the story that shows how practicing mindfulness changed your life.

😸 Narrative Essay Examples

Example #1: live-saving experience.

In this essay, I would like to narrate a story that occurred with me and my friend when we were visiting a large shopping mall. It was the weekends, and our meeting in the café was planned in advance, but my friend suggested that we can go to the mall as she needed a new dress. I agreed with her and arrived a little earlier than it was arranged. I took a seat on the bench near the mall, sipping my cappuccino and looking around while waiting for my friend. The next 20 minutes were one of the most stressful and important in my life as I significantly contributed to saving a human life.

Example #2: Creating a Business with a Friend

I have been in business for more than ten years. I have seen crises, success, failures, tears, sweat, and hard work everywhere. Nevertheless, each time it was also about opportunities to grow both as an individual and as an entrepreneur. But I had one that was particularly memorable emotionally. This is a story about creating a business with a friend. I worked in various fields, and I started four of my companies with friends.

💡 Narrative Essay Tips

Do you need more tips for narrative writing? Keep reading!

• Keep it clear. Avoid complex words and syntax.
• Search for the balance when describing details . Don’t go into them too deeply. At the same time, even a single lost detail can skew the reader’s understanding.
• Use the first-person narrative . Good narrative stories are usually written in the first person. When you use “I”, you’re engaging your readers with an immediacy of the story.
• Use dynamic words and active voice . Think about your writing as it was the speech: what words, idioms, slang, and turns of phrase would you use? Try not to sound too clinical – no passive constructions.
• Limit references . When you look through citation style guides, you’ll find the recommendations to include citations into your assignment. But not in a narrative essay – it is disruptive. When you find a useful piece of content, just cite it in the reference list after the essay.

Thank you for reading! Whenever you feel that you could use some help in writing your paper, take a closer look at these tips – you’ll definitely be able to develop your own signature style once you start following them. Keep up the good work!

• Essay Writing: Purdue Online Writing Lab
• How to Write an Making an Argument: Creating a Thesis (BMCC Writing Center)
• Beginning the Academic Essay: Harvard College Writing Center
• Conclusions: University of North Carolina Writing Center
• Editing and Revision Tips: Indiana University Northwest
• Narrative Essays // Purdue Writing Lab
• Narrative Essay: Definition, Examples & Characteristics
• Narrative Essays – National Geographic Learning – Cengage
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What is a Narrative Essay? How to Write It (with Examples)

Narrative essays are a type of storytelling in which writers weave a personal experience into words to create a fascinating and engaging narrative for readers. A narrative essay explains a story from the author’s point of view to share a lesson or memory with the reader. Narrative essays, like descriptive essays , employ figurative language to depict the subject in a vivid and creative manner to leave a lasting impact on the readers’ minds. In this article, we explore the definition of narrative essays, list the key elements to be included, and provide tips on how to craft a narrative that captivates your audience.

Table of Contents

What is a narrative essay, choosing narrative essay topics, key elements in a narrative essay, creating a narrative essay outline, types of narrative essays, the pre-writing stage, the writing stage, the editing stage, narrative essay example, frequently asked questions.

Narrative essays are often based on one’s personal experience which allows the author to express himself/herself in compelling ways for the reader. They employ storytelling elements to convey the plot and captivate the reader while disclosing the story’s theme or purpose. The author must always have a purpose or theme in mind when writing a narrative essay. These essays may be assigned to high school students to assess their ability to create captivating stories based on personal experiences, or they may be required as part of a college application to assess the applicant’s personal traits. Narrative essays might be based on true events with minor tweaks for dramatic purposes, or they can be adapted from a fictional scenario. Whatever the case maybe, the goal is to tell a story, a good story!

In narrative essays, the emphasis is not so much on the narrative itself as it is on how you explain it. Narrative essay topics cover a range of experiences, from noteworthy to mundane, but when storytelling elements are used well, even a simple account can have weight. Notably, the skills required for narrative writing differ significantly from those needed for formal academic essays, and we will delve deeper into this in the next section.

You can talk about any narrative, but consider whether it is fascinating enough, has enough twists and turns, or teaches a lesson (It’s a plus if the story contains an unexpected twist at the end). The potential topics for a narrative essay are limitless—a triumphant story, a brief moment of introspection, or a voyage of self-discovery. These essays provide writers with the opportunity to share a fragment of their lives with the audience, enriching both the writer’s and the reader’s experiences. Narrative essay examples could be a write-up on “What has been your biggest achievement in life so far and what did it teach you?” or “Describe your toughest experience and how you dealt with it?”.

While narrative essays allow you to be creative with your ideas, language, and format, they must include some key components to convey the story clearly, create engaging content and build reader interest. Follow these guidelines when drafting your essay:   

• Tell your story using the first person to engage users.
• Use sufficient sensory information and figurative language.
• Follow an organized framework so the story flows chronologically.
• Include interesting plot components that add to the narrative.
• Ensure clear language without grammar, spelling, or word choice errors.

Narrative essay outlines serve as the foundational structure for essay composition, acting as a framework to organize thoughts and ideas prior to the writing process. These outlines provide writers with a means to summarize the story, and help in formulating the introduction and conclusion sections and defining the narrative’s trajectory.

Unlike conventional essays that strictly adhere to the five-paragraph structure, narrative essays allow for more flexibility as the organization is dictated by the flow of the story. The outline typically encompasses general details about the events, granting writers the option to prioritize writing the body sections first while deferring the introduction until later stages of the writing process. This approach allows for a more organic and fluid writing process. If you’re wondering how to start writing a narrative essay outline, here is a sample designed to ensure a compelling and coherent narrative:

Introduction

• Hook/Opening line: The introduction should have an opening/hook sentence that is a captivating quote, question, or anecdote that grabs the reader’s attention.
• Background: Briefly introduce the setting, time, tone, and main characters.
• Thesis statement: State clearly the main theme or lesson acquired from the experience.
• Event 1 (according to occurrence): Describe the first major event in detail. Introduce the primary characters and set the story context; include sensory elements to enrich the narrative and give the characters depth and enthusiasm.
• Event 2: Ensure a smooth transition from one event to the next. Continue with the second event in the narrative. For more oomph, use suspense or excitement, or leave the plot with cliffhanger endings. Concentrate on developing your characters and their relationships, using dialog to bring the story to life.
• Event 3: If there was a twist and suspense, this episode should introduce the climax or resolve the story. Keep the narrative flowing by connecting events logically and conveying the feelings and reactions of the characters.
• Summarize the plot: Provide a concise recap of the main events within the narrative essay. Highlight the key moments that contribute to the development of the storyline. Offer personal reflections on the significance of the experiences shared, emphasizing the lasting impact they had on the narrator. End the story with a clincher; a powerful and thought-provoking sentence that encapsulates the essence of the narrative. As a bonus, aim to leave the reader with a memorable statement or quote that enhances the overall impact of the narrative. This should linger in the reader’s mind, providing a satisfying and resonant conclusion to the essay.

There are several types of narrative essays, each with their own unique traits. Some narrative essay examples are presented in the table below.

How to write a narrative essay: Step-by-step guide

A narrative essay might be inspired by personal experiences, stories, or even imaginary scenarios that resonate with readers, immersing them in the imaginative world you have created with your words. Here’s an easy step-by-step guide on how to write a narrative essay.

• Select the topic of your narrative

If no prompt is provided, the first step is to choose a topic to write about. Think about personal experiences that could be given an interesting twist. Readers are more likely to like a tale if it contains aspects of humor, surprising twists, and an out-of-the-box climax. Try to plan out such subjects and consider whether you have enough information on the topic and whether it meets the criteria of being funny/inspiring, with nice characters/plot lines, and an exciting climax. Also consider the tone as well as any stylistic features (such as metaphors or foreshadowing) to be used. While these stylistic choices can be changed later, sketching these ideas early on helps you give your essay a direction to start.

• Create a framework for your essay

Once you have decided on your topic, create an outline for your narrative essay. An outline is a framework that guides your ideas while you write your narrative essay to keep you on track. It can help with smooth transitions between sections when you are stuck and don’t know how to continue the story. It provides you with an anchor to attach and return to, reminding you of why you started in the first place and why the story matters.

• Compile your first draft

A perfect story and outline do not work until you start writing the draft and breathe life into it with your words. Use your newly constructed outline to sketch out distinct sections of your narrative essay while applying numerous linguistic methods at your disposal. Unlike academic essays, narrative essays allow artistic freedom and leeway for originality so don’t stop yourself from expressing your thoughts. However, take care not to overuse linguistic devices, it’s best to maintain a healthy balance to ensure readability and flow.

• Use a first-person point of view

One of the most appealing aspects of narrative essays is that traditional academic writing rules do not apply, and the narration is usually done in the first person. You can use first person pronouns such as I and me while narrating different scenarios. Be wary of overly using these as they can suggest lack of proper diction.

• Use storytelling or creative language

You can employ storytelling tactics and linguistic tools used in fiction or creative writing, such as metaphors, similes, and foreshadowing, to communicate various themes. The use of figurative language, dialogue, and suspense is encouraged in narrative essays.

• Follow a format to stay organized

There’s no fixed format for narrative essays, but following a loose format when writing helps in organizing one’s thoughts. For example, in the introduction part, underline the importance of creating a narrative essay, and then reaffirm it in the concluding paragraph. Organize your story chronologically so that the reader can follow along and make sense of the story.

• Reread, revise, and edit

Proofreading and editing are critical components of creating a narrative essay, but it can be easy to become weighed down by the details at this stage. Taking a break from your manuscript before diving into the editing process is a wise practice. Stepping away for a day or two, or even just a few hours, provides valuable time to enhance the plot and address any grammatical issues that may need correction. This period of distance allows for a fresh perspective, enabling you to approach the editing phase with renewed clarity and a more discerning eye.

One suggestion is to reconsider the goals you set out to cover when you started the topic. Ask yourself these questions:

• Is there a distinct beginning and end to your story?
• Does your essay have a topic, a memory, or a lesson to teach?
• Does the tone of the essay match the intended mood?

Now, while keeping these things in mind, modify and proofread your essay. You can use online grammar checkers and paraphrase tools such as Paperpal to smooth out any rough spots before submitting it for publication or submission.

It is recommended to edit your essay in the order it was written; here are some useful tips:

• Revise the introduction

After crafting your narrative essay, review the introduction to ensure it harmonizes with the developed narrative. Confirm that it adeptly introduces the story and aligns seamlessly with the conclusion.

• Revise the conclusion and polish the essay

The conclusion should be the final element edited to ensure coherence and harmony in the entire narrative. It must reinforce the central theme or lesson outlined initially.

• Revise and refine the entire article

The last step involves refining the article for consistent tone, style, and tense as well as correct language, grammar, punctuation, and clarity. Seeking feedback from a mentor or colleague can offer an invaluable external perspective at this stage.

Narrative essays are true accounts of the writer’s personal experiences, conveyed in figurative language for sensory appeal. Some narrative essay topic examples include writing about an unforgettable experience, reflecting on mistakes, or achieving a goal. An example of a personal narrative essay is as follows:

Title: A Feline Odyssey: An Experience of Fostering Stray Kittens

Introduction:

It was a fine summer evening in the year 2022 when a soft meowing disrupted the tranquility of my terrace. Little did I know that this innocent symphony would lead to a heartwarming journey of compassion and companionship. Soon, there was a mama cat at my doorstep with four little kittens tucked behind her. They were the most unexpected visitors I had ever had.

The kittens, just fluffs of fur with barely open eyes, were a monument to life’s fragility. Their mother, a street-smart feline, had entrusted me with the care of her precious offspring. The responsibility was sudden and unexpected, yet there was an undeniable sense of purpose in the air , filling me with delight and enthusiasm.

As the days unfolded, my terrace transformed into a haven for the feline family. Cardboard boxes became makeshift cat shelters and my once solitary retreat was filled with purrs and soothing meows. The mother cat, Lily, who initially observ ed me from a safe distance, gradually began to trust my presence as I offered food and gentle strokes.

Fostering the kittens was a life-changing , enriching experience that taught me the true joy of giving as I cared for the felines. My problems slowly faded into the background as evenings were spent playing with the kittens. Sleepless nights turned into a symphony of contented purring, a lullaby filled with the warmth of trust and security . Although the kittens were identical, they grew up to have very distinct personalities, with Kuttu being the most curious and Bobo being the most coy . Every dawn ushered in a soothing ritual of nourishing these feline companions, while nights welcomed their playful antics — a daily nocturnal delight.

Conclusion:

As the kittens grew, so did the realization that our paths were destined to part. Finally, the day arrived when the feline family, now confident and self-reliant, bid farewell to my terrace. It was a bittersweet moment, filled with a sense of love and accomplishment and a tinge of sadness.

Fostering Kuttu, Coco, Lulu, and Bobo became one of the most transformative experiences of my life. Their arrival had brought unexpected joy, teaching me about compassion and our species’ ability to make a difference in the world through love and understanding. The terrace, once a quiet retreat, now bore the echoes of a feline symphony that had touched my heart in ways I could have never imagined.

The length of a narrative essay may vary, but it is typically a brief to moderate length piece. Generally, the essay contains an introductory paragraph, two to three body paragraphs (this number can vary), and a conclusion. The entire narrative essay could be as short as five paragraphs or much longer, depending on the assignment’s requirements or the writer’s preference.

You can write a narrative essay when you have a personal experience to share, or a story, or a series of events that you can tell in a creative and engaging way. Narrative essays are often assigned in academic settings as a form of writing that allows students to express themselves and showcase their storytelling skills. However, you can also write a narrative essay for personal reflection, entertainment, or to communicate a message.

A narrative essay usually follows a three-part structure: – Introduction (To set the stage for the story) – Body paragraphs (To describe sequence of events with details, descriptions, and dialogue) – Conclusion (To summarize the story and reflect on the significance)

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3 Great Narrative Essay Examples + Tips for Writing

General Education

A narrative essay is one of the most intimidating assignments you can be handed at any level of your education. Where you've previously written argumentative essays that make a point or analytic essays that dissect meaning, a narrative essay asks you to write what is effectively a story .

But unlike a simple work of creative fiction, your narrative essay must have a clear and concrete motif —a recurring theme or idea that you’ll explore throughout. Narrative essays are less rigid, more creative in expression, and therefore pretty different from most other essays you’ll be writing.

But not to fear—in this article, we’ll be covering what a narrative essay is, how to write a good one, and also analyzing some personal narrative essay examples to show you what a great one looks like.

What Is a Narrative Essay?

At first glance, a narrative essay might sound like you’re just writing a story. Like the stories you're used to reading, a narrative essay is generally (but not always) chronological, following a clear throughline from beginning to end. Even if the story jumps around in time, all the details will come back to one specific theme, demonstrated through your choice in motifs.

Unlike many creative stories, however, your narrative essay should be based in fact. That doesn’t mean that every detail needs to be pure and untainted by imagination, but rather that you shouldn’t wholly invent the events of your narrative essay. There’s nothing wrong with inventing a person’s words if you can’t remember them exactly, but you shouldn’t say they said something they weren’t even close to saying.

Another big difference between narrative essays and creative fiction—as well as other kinds of essays—is that narrative essays are based on motifs. A motif is a dominant idea or theme, one that you establish before writing the essay. As you’re crafting the narrative, it’ll feed back into your motif to create a comprehensive picture of whatever that motif is.

For example, say you want to write a narrative essay about how your first day in high school helped you establish your identity. You might discuss events like trying to figure out where to sit in the cafeteria, having to describe yourself in five words as an icebreaker in your math class, or being unsure what to do during your lunch break because it’s no longer acceptable to go outside and play during lunch. All of those ideas feed back into the central motif of establishing your identity.

The important thing to remember is that while a narrative essay is typically told chronologically and intended to read like a story, it is not purely for entertainment value. A narrative essay delivers its theme by deliberately weaving the motifs through the events, scenes, and details. While a narrative essay may be entertaining, its primary purpose is to tell a complete story based on a central meaning.

Unlike other essay forms, it is totally okay—even expected—to use first-person narration in narrative essays. If you’re writing a story about yourself, it’s natural to refer to yourself within the essay. It’s also okay to use other perspectives, such as third- or even second-person, but that should only be done if it better serves your motif. Generally speaking, your narrative essay should be in first-person perspective.

Though your motif choices may feel at times like you’re making a point the way you would in an argumentative essay, a narrative essay’s goal is to tell a story, not convince the reader of anything. Your reader should be able to tell what your motif is from reading, but you don’t have to change their mind about anything. If they don’t understand the point you are making, you should consider strengthening the delivery of the events and descriptions that support your motif.

Narrative essays also share some features with analytical essays, in which you derive meaning from a book, film, or other media. But narrative essays work differently—you’re not trying to draw meaning from an existing text, but rather using an event you’ve experienced to convey meaning. In an analytical essay, you examine narrative, whereas in a narrative essay you create narrative.

The structure of a narrative essay is also a bit different than other essays. You’ll generally be getting your point across chronologically as opposed to grouping together specific arguments in paragraphs or sections. To return to the example of an essay discussing your first day of high school and how it impacted the shaping of your identity, it would be weird to put the events out of order, even if not knowing what to do after lunch feels like a stronger idea than choosing where to sit. Instead of organizing to deliver your information based on maximum impact, you’ll be telling your story as it happened, using concrete details to reinforce your theme.

3 Great Narrative Essay Examples

One of the best ways to learn how to write a narrative essay is to look at a great narrative essay sample. Let’s take a look at some truly stellar narrative essay examples and dive into what exactly makes them work so well.

A Ticket to the Fair by David Foster Wallace

Today is Press Day at the Illinois State Fair in Springfield, and I’m supposed to be at the fairgrounds by 9:00 A.M. to get my credentials. I imagine credentials to be a small white card in the band of a fedora. I’ve never been considered press before. My real interest in credentials is getting into rides and shows for free. I’m fresh in from the East Coast, for an East Coast magazine. Why exactly they’re interested in the Illinois State Fair remains unclear to me. I suspect that every so often editors at East Coast magazines slap their foreheads and remember that about 90 percent of the United States lies between the coasts, and figure they’ll engage somebody to do pith-helmeted anthropological reporting on something rural and heartlandish. I think they asked me to do this because I grew up here, just a couple hours’ drive from downstate Springfield. I never did go to the state fair, though—I pretty much topped out at the county fair level. Actually, I haven’t been back to Illinois for a long time, and I can’t say I’ve missed it.

Throughout this essay, David Foster Wallace recounts his experience as press at the Illinois State Fair. But it’s clear from this opening that he’s not just reporting on the events exactly as they happened—though that’s also true— but rather making a point about how the East Coast, where he lives and works, thinks about the Midwest.

In his opening paragraph, Wallace states that outright: “Why exactly they’re interested in the Illinois State Fair remains unclear to me. I suspect that every so often editors at East Coast magazines slap their foreheads and remember that about 90 percent of the United States lies between the coasts, and figure they’ll engage somebody to do pith-helmeted anthropological reporting on something rural and heartlandish.”

Not every motif needs to be stated this clearly , but in an essay as long as Wallace’s, particularly since the audience for such a piece may feel similarly and forget that such a large portion of the country exists, it’s important to make that point clear.

But Wallace doesn’t just rest on introducing his motif and telling the events exactly as they occurred from there. It’s clear that he selects events that remind us of that idea of East Coast cynicism , such as when he realizes that the Help Me Grow tent is standing on top of fake grass that is killing the real grass beneath, when he realizes the hypocrisy of craving a corn dog when faced with a real, suffering pig, when he’s upset for his friend even though he’s not the one being sexually harassed, and when he witnesses another East Coast person doing something he wouldn’t dare to do.

Wallace is literally telling the audience exactly what happened, complete with dates and timestamps for when each event occurred. But he’s also choosing those events with a purpose—he doesn’t focus on details that don’t serve his motif. That’s why he discusses the experiences of people, how the smells are unappealing to him, and how all the people he meets, in cowboy hats, overalls, or “black spandex that looks like cheesecake leotards,” feel almost alien to him.

All of these details feed back into the throughline of East Coast thinking that Wallace introduces in the first paragraph. He also refers back to it in the essay’s final paragraph, stating:

At last, an overarching theory blooms inside my head: megalopolitan East Coasters’ summer treats and breaks and literally ‘getaways,’ flights-from—from crowds, noise, heat, dirt, the stress of too many sensory choices….The East Coast existential treat is escape from confines and stimuli—quiet, rustic vistas that hold still, turn inward, turn away. Not so in the rural Midwest. Here you’re pretty much away all the time….Something in a Midwesterner sort of actuates , deep down, at a public event….The real spectacle that draws us here is us.

Throughout this journey, Wallace has tried to demonstrate how the East Coast thinks about the Midwest, ultimately concluding that they are captivated by the Midwest’s less stimuli-filled life, but that the real reason they are interested in events like the Illinois State Fair is that they are, in some ways, a means of looking at the East Coast in a new, estranging way.

The reason this works so well is that Wallace has carefully chosen his examples, outlined his motif and themes in the first paragraph, and eventually circled back to the original motif with a clearer understanding of his original point.

When outlining your own narrative essay, try to do the same. Start with a theme, build upon it with examples, and return to it in the end with an even deeper understanding of the original issue. You don’t need this much space to explore a theme, either—as we’ll see in the next example, a strong narrative essay can also be very short.

Death of a Moth by Virginia Woolf

After a time, tired by his dancing apparently, he settled on the window ledge in the sun, and, the queer spectacle being at an end, I forgot about him. Then, looking up, my eye was caught by him. He was trying to resume his dancing, but seemed either so stiff or so awkward that he could only flutter to the bottom of the window-pane; and when he tried to fly across it he failed. Being intent on other matters I watched these futile attempts for a time without thinking, unconsciously waiting for him to resume his flight, as one waits for a machine, that has stopped momentarily, to start again without considering the reason of its failure. After perhaps a seventh attempt he slipped from the wooden ledge and fell, fluttering his wings, on to his back on the window sill. The helplessness of his attitude roused me. It flashed upon me that he was in difficulties; he could no longer raise himself; his legs struggled vainly. But, as I stretched out a pencil, meaning to help him to right himself, it came over me that the failure and awkwardness were the approach of death. I laid the pencil down again.

In this essay, Virginia Woolf explains her encounter with a dying moth. On surface level, this essay is just a recounting of an afternoon in which she watched a moth die—it’s even established in the title. But there’s more to it than that. Though Woolf does not begin her essay with as clear a motif as Wallace, it’s not hard to pick out the evidence she uses to support her point, which is that the experience of this moth is also the human experience.

In the title, Woolf tells us this essay is about death. But in the first paragraph, she seems to mostly be discussing life—the moth is “content with life,” people are working in the fields, and birds are flying. However, she mentions that it is mid-September and that the fields were being plowed. It’s autumn and it’s time for the harvest; the time of year in which many things die.

In this short essay, she chronicles the experience of watching a moth seemingly embody life, then die. Though this essay is literally about a moth, it’s also about a whole lot more than that. After all, moths aren’t the only things that die—Woolf is also reflecting on her own mortality, as well as the mortality of everything around her.

At its core, the essay discusses the push and pull of life and death, not in a way that’s necessarily sad, but in a way that is accepting of both. Woolf begins by setting up the transitional fall season, often associated with things coming to an end, and raises the ideas of pleasure, vitality, and pity.

At one point, Woolf tries to help the dying moth, but reconsiders, as it would interfere with the natural order of the world. The moth’s death is part of the natural order of the world, just like fall, just like her own eventual death.

All these themes are set up in the beginning and explored throughout the essay’s narrative. Though Woolf doesn’t directly state her theme, she reinforces it by choosing a small, isolated event—watching a moth die—and illustrating her point through details.

With this essay, we can see that you don’t need a big, weird, exciting event to discuss an important meaning. Woolf is able to explore complicated ideas in a short essay by being deliberate about what details she includes, just as you can be in your own essays.

Notes of a Native Son by James Baldwin

On the twenty-ninth of July, in 1943, my father died. On the same day, a few hours later, his last child was born. Over a month before this, while all our energies were concentrated in waiting for these events, there had been, in Detroit, one of the bloodiest race riots of the century. A few hours after my father’s funeral, while he lay in state in the undertaker’s chapel, a race riot broke out in Harlem. On the morning of the third of August, we drove my father to the graveyard through a wilderness of smashed plate glass.

Like Woolf, Baldwin does not lay out his themes in concrete terms—unlike Wallace, there’s no clear sentence that explains what he’ll be talking about. However, you can see the motifs quite clearly: death, fatherhood, struggle, and race.

Throughout the narrative essay, Baldwin discusses the circumstances of his father’s death, including his complicated relationship with his father. By introducing those motifs in the first paragraph, the reader understands that everything discussed in the essay will come back to those core ideas. When Baldwin talks about his experience with a white teacher taking an interest in him and his father’s resistance to that, he is also talking about race and his father’s death. When he talks about his father’s death, he is also talking about his views on race. When he talks about his encounters with segregation and racism, he is talking, in part, about his father.

Because his father was a hard, uncompromising man, Baldwin struggles to reconcile the knowledge that his father was right about many things with his desire to not let that hardness consume him, as well.

Baldwin doesn’t explicitly state any of this, but his writing so often touches on the same motifs that it becomes clear he wants us to think about all these ideas in conversation with one another.

At the end of the essay, Baldwin makes it more clear:

This fight begins, however, in the heart and it had now been laid to my charge to keep my own heart free of hatred and despair. This intimation made my heart heavy and, now that my father was irrecoverable, I wished that he had been beside me so that I could have searched his face for the answers which only the future would give me now.

Here, Baldwin ties together the themes and motifs into one clear statement: that he must continue to fight and recognize injustice, especially racial injustice, just as his father did. But unlike his father, he must do it beginning with himself—he must not let himself be closed off to the world as his father was. And yet, he still wishes he had his father for guidance, even as he establishes that he hopes to be a different man than his father.

In this essay, Baldwin loads the front of the essay with his motifs, and, through his narrative, weaves them together into a theme. In the end, he comes to a conclusion that connects all of those things together and leaves the reader with a lasting impression of completion—though the elements may have been initially disparate, in the end everything makes sense.

You can replicate this tactic of introducing seemingly unattached ideas and weaving them together in your own essays. By introducing those motifs, developing them throughout, and bringing them together in the end, you can demonstrate to your reader how all of them are related. However, it’s especially important to be sure that your motifs and clear and consistent throughout your essay so that the conclusion feels earned and consistent—if not, readers may feel mislead.

5 Key Tips for Writing Narrative Essays

Narrative essays can be a lot of fun to write since they’re so heavily based on creativity. But that can also feel intimidating—sometimes it’s easier to have strict guidelines than to have to make it all up yourself. Here are a few tips to keep your narrative essay feeling strong and fresh.

Develop Strong Motifs

Motifs are the foundation of a narrative essay . What are you trying to say? How can you say that using specific symbols or events? Those are your motifs.

In the same way that an argumentative essay’s body should support its thesis, the body of your narrative essay should include motifs that support your theme.

Try to avoid cliches, as these will feel tired to your readers. Instead of roses to symbolize love, try succulents. Instead of the ocean representing some vast, unknowable truth, try the depths of your brother’s bedroom. Keep your language and motifs fresh and your essay will be even stronger!

Use First-Person Perspective

In many essays, you’re expected to remove yourself so that your points stand on their own. Not so in a narrative essay—in this case, you want to make use of your own perspective.

Sometimes a different perspective can make your point even stronger. If you want someone to identify with your point of view, it may be tempting to choose a second-person perspective. However, be sure you really understand the function of second-person; it’s very easy to put a reader off if the narration isn’t expertly deployed.

If you want a little bit of distance, third-person perspective may be okay. But be careful—too much distance and your reader may feel like the narrative lacks truth.

That’s why first-person perspective is the standard. It keeps you, the writer, close to the narrative, reminding the reader that it really happened. And because you really know what happened and how, you’re free to inject your own opinion into the story without it detracting from your point, as it would in a different type of essay.

Stick to the Truth

Your essay should be true. However, this is a creative essay, and it’s okay to embellish a little. Rarely in life do we experience anything with a clear, concrete meaning the way somebody in a book might. If you flub the details a little, it’s okay—just don’t make them up entirely.

Also, nobody expects you to perfectly recall details that may have happened years ago. You may have to reconstruct dialog from your memory and your imagination. That’s okay, again, as long as you aren’t making it up entirely and assigning made-up statements to somebody.

Dialog is a powerful tool. A good conversation can add flavor and interest to a story, as we saw demonstrated in David Foster Wallace’s essay. As previously mentioned, it’s okay to flub it a little, especially because you’re likely writing about an experience you had without knowing that you’d be writing about it later.

However, don’t rely too much on it. Your narrative essay shouldn’t be told through people explaining things to one another; the motif comes through in the details. Dialog can be one of those details, but it shouldn’t be the only one.

Use Sensory Descriptions

Because a narrative essay is a story, you can use sensory details to make your writing more interesting. If you’re describing a particular experience, you can go into detail about things like taste, smell, and hearing in a way that you probably wouldn’t do in any other essay style.

These details can tie into your overall motifs and further your point. Woolf describes in great detail what she sees while watching the moth, giving us the sense that we, too, are watching the moth. In Wallace’s essay, he discusses the sights, sounds, and smells of the Illinois State Fair to help emphasize his point about its strangeness. And in Baldwin’s essay, he describes shattered glass as a “wilderness,” and uses the feelings of his body to describe his mental state.

All these descriptions anchor us not only in the story, but in the motifs and themes as well. One of the tools of a writer is making the reader feel as you felt, and sensory details help you achieve that.

What’s Next?

Looking to brush up on your essay-writing capabilities before the ACT? This guide to ACT English will walk you through some of the best strategies and practice questions to get you prepared!

Part of practicing for the ACT is ensuring your word choice and diction are on point. Check out this guide to some of the most common errors on the ACT English section to be sure that you're not making these common mistakes!

A solid understanding of English principles will help you make an effective point in a narrative essay, and you can get that understanding through taking a rigorous assortment of high school English classes !

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Melissa Brinks graduated from the University of Washington in 2014 with a Bachelor's in English with a creative writing emphasis. She has spent several years tutoring K-12 students in many subjects, including in SAT prep, to help them prepare for their college education.

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What is a Narrative Essay — Examples, Format & Techniques

I was in the Amazon jungle the first time I wrote a narrative essay, enlightened and enraptured by the influence of ayahuasca. That’s not true. I’ve never been to South America nor have I ever taken ayahuasca. The purpose of that opening is to show how to craft a narrative essay intro — hook, line, and sinker. Narrative essays rely on hooking the reader, and enticing them to read on. But what is a narrative essay? We’re going to break down everything you need to know about these essays — definition, examples, tips and tricks included. By the end, you’ll be ready to craft your own narrative essay for school or for publication.

What’s a Narrative Essay?

First, let’s define narrative essay.

Narrative essays share a lot of similarities with personal essays, but whereas the former can be fictional or non-fictional, the latter are strictly non-fictional. The goal of the narrative essay is to use established storytelling techniques, like theme , conflict , and irony , in a uniquely personal way.

The responsibility of the narrative essayist is to make the reader feel connected to their story, regardless of the topic. This next video explores how writers can use structural elements and techniques to better engage their readers. 

Personal Narrative Essay Examples With Essay Pro

Narrative essays rely on tried and true structure components, including:

• First-person POV
• Personal inspiration
• Focus on a central theme

By keeping these major tenets in mind, you’ll be better prepared to recognize weaknesses and strengths in your own works.

NARRATIVE ESSAY DEFINITION

What is a narrative essay.

A narrative essay is a prose-written story that’s focused on the commentary of a central theme. Narrative essays are generally written in the first-person POV, and are usually about a topic that’s personal to the writer. Everything in these essays should take place in an established timeline, with a clear beginning, middle, and end. 

Famous Narrative Essay Examples

• Ticker to the Fair by David Foster Wallace
• After Life by Joan Didion
• Here is a Lesson in Creative Writing by Kurt Vonnegut

Narrative Writing Explained

How to start a narrative essay.

When you go to sleep at night, what do you think of? Flying squirrels? Lost loved ones? That time you called your teacher ‘mom’? Whatever it is, that’s what you need to write about. There’s a reason those ideas and moments have stuck with you over time. Your job is to figure out why.

Once you realize what makes a moment important to you, it’s your job to make it important to the reader too. In this next video, Academy Award-nominated filmmaker J. Christian Jensen explains the power of the personal narrative. 

Narrative Writing and the Personal Narrative Essay  •  Video by TEDx Talks

Anything and everything can be the topic of your essay. It could be as benign as a walk to school or as grandiose as a trip to the moon — so long as that narrative exists within reality. Give your thoughts and opinions on the matter too — don’t be afraid to say “this is what I think” so long as it’s supported by storytelling techniques. Remember, never limit yourself as a writer, just keep in mind that certain topics will be harder to make engaging than others.

Narrative Essay Outline

How to write a narrative essay.

First step, game plan. You’re going to want to map out the story from beginning to end, then mark major story beats in your document.

Like all stories, your narrative essay needs a clear beginning, middle, and end. Each section should generally conform to a specifically outlined structure. For reference, check out the outline below.

Narrative Essay Format  •  How to Write a Narrative Essay Step by Step

Make sure to reference back to this outline throughout the writing process to make sure you have all your major beats covered.

Purpose of narrative essay writing

Narrative essays give writers the ability to freely express themselves within the structure of a traditional story. Nearly all universities ask applicants to submit a narrative essay with their formal application. This is done for two reasons: they allow institutions to judge the linguistic and grammar capabilities of its applicants, as well as their raw creative side.

If you’re considering studying creative writing in an undergraduate or graduate program, then you’re going to write A LOT of narrative style essays. This process may seem indomitable; How am I supposed to write hundreds of pages about… me? But by the end, you’ll be a better writer and you’ll have a better understanding of yourself.

One thing that all successful essayists have in common is that they make radical, often defiant statements on the world at large. Think Ralph Waldo Emerson, Virginia Woolf, and Langston Hughes for example.

Being a professional essayist isn’t easy, and it’s near-impossible to be one who makes a lot of money. Many essayists work as professors, editors, and curriculum designers as well. 

This next video features the late, award-winning essayist Brian Doyle. He explains all the things you need to hear when thinking about writing a story.

Narrative Essay Examples “Lecture” via Boston University

We can learn a lot from the way Doyle “opens” his stories. My favorite is how he begins with the statement, “I met the Dalai Lama once.” How can we not be interested in learning more? 

This brings us all the way back to the beginning. Start with a hook, rattle off the line, then reel in the sinker. If you entice the reader, develop a personal plot, and finish with a resolute ending, you’ll have a lot of success in essay writing. 

 Up Next

Narrative essay topics.

We've curated a collection of narrative essay topics that will spark your creativity and bring your experiences to life. Dive into the rich tapestry of your memories, explore the unique threads of your life, and let your narrative unfold.

Up Next: Narrative Essay Topics →

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Home — Essay Types — Narrative Essay

Narrative Essay Examples

Narrative essays are all about telling a story. They can be based on personal experiences, fictional stories, or even historical events. When it comes to choosing a topic for a narrative essay, the possibilities are endless. Some popular narrative essay topics include a memorable childhood event, a life-changing experience, a significant accomplishment, a difficult decision you had to make, a moment of failure or success, a time when you learned something new, or a time when you overcame a fear. Other topics could include a memorable journey, a moment of kindness you experienced, a lesson you learned from a mistake, or a significant challenge you faced. Ultimately, the best narrative essay topics are ones that are meaningful to the writer and allow them to showcase their storytelling abilities.

The Importance of Writing Narrative Essay

Narrative essays are an important type of writing because they allow individuals to share their personal experiences, emotions, and perspectives with others. By exploring topics such as significant life events, moments of growth, and lessons learned, writers can connect with their audience on a deeper level. These essays can also serve as a form of self-reflection and personal growth, as they encourage individuals to critically analyze and articulate their own experiences. Additionally, narrative essays can be a powerful tool for building empathy and understanding, as they allow readers to step into the shoes of the writer and gain new insights. Ultimately, the act of writing a narrative essay can be both cathartic and enlightening, making it a valuable form of expression.

How to Choose a Good Topic for Narrative Essay

When it comes to writing a narrative essay, the topic you choose is crucial to the success of your essay. A good topic will not only engage your readers but also allow you to explore your own experiences and emotions in a meaningful way. Here are some tips on how to choose a good topic for your narrative essay:

• Consider your own experiences. Think about a moment in your life that was significant or memorable. This could be a personal achievement, a challenging experience, or a moment of realization.
• Choose a topic with emotional impact. A good narrative essay should evoke emotions in the reader. Choose a topic that is meaningful to you and has the potential to evoke strong emotions in your audience.
• Keep it specific. Instead of writing about a broad topic, focus on a specific event or experience. This will allow you to delve deeper into the details and bring your story to life.
• Reflect on the significance. After choosing a topic, consider why it is important to you and how it has impacted your life. Reflecting on the significance of the topic will help you write a more compelling narrative essay.

By following these tips, you can choose a good topic for your narrative essay that will captivate your readers and allow you to express yourself effectively.

Narrative Essay Topics to Consider

Narrative essays are a great way to share personal experiences and connect with readers on a deeper level. Here are some popular narrative essay topics to consider:

Childhood Memories

• My favorite family vacation
• A memorable birthday party
• An unforgettable summer camp experience
• The first day of school
• Learning to ride a bike

Life-Changing Events

• Moving to a new city
• The loss of a loved one
• Getting your first job
• A life-altering injury or illness
• Attending a life-changing event or concert

Achievements and Challenges

• Overcoming a fear or phobia
• Accomplishing a personal goal
• Failing at something and learning from it
• Winning a competition or award
• Dealing with a difficult decision or dilemma

Lessons Learned

• A valuable lesson learned from a mistake
• The importance of empathy and kindness
• A time when you had to stand up for what you believe in
• Overcoming a personal struggle or setback
• Learning the value of hard work and perseverance

Moments of Growth

• A moment that changed your perspective on life
• Finding your passion or purpose
• A significant turning point in your life
• Overcoming a personal challenge
• A time when you had to step out of your comfort zone and try something new

In summary, narrative essays are a powerful form of storytelling that allow writers to share personal experiences, emotions, and perspectives with their audience. Choosing a good topic for a narrative essay is essential, as it can engage readers and allow for meaningful self-reflection. Popular narrative essay topics include childhood memories, life-changing events, achievements and challenges, lessons learned, and moments of growth. By choosing a topic that is meaningful and specific, writers can create compelling narrative essays that resonate with their audience and showcase their storytelling abilities.

What is a Narrative Essays: Definition

A narrative essay is a type of essay that tells a story. It can be a personal story, a fictional tale, or a recount of a historical event. The main goal of a Narrative essay is to engage the reader and create a vivid and immersive experience through the use of descriptive language and storytelling techniques.

✏️ Read More: Response Essay Topics 📝

How to Write a Classification Essay: Tips

When writing a classification essay, it is important to organize your thoughts and ideas clearly and coherently. Here are some tips to help you effectively write a classification essay:

• Choose a topic: Select a topic that is broad enough to be classified into different categories but specific enough to be manageable.
• Identify categories: Once you have chosen a topic, identify the different categories or groups that the topic can be divided into. Make sure that each category is distinct and has clear characteristics.
• Develop a thesis statement: Your thesis statement should clearly state the purpose of your classification essay and the categories you will be discussing.
• Organize your essay: Start with an introduction that provides background information on the topic and introduces the categories you will be discussing. Then, in the body of the essay, discuss each category in detail, providing examples and evidence to support your classification. Finally, conclude your essay by summarizing the main points and reiterating your thesis statement.
• Use transitions: Use transitional words and phrases to guide your reader through the different categories and to create a smooth and coherent flow in your essay.

By following these tips, you can effectively write a classification essay that is well-organized and easy to understand.

Narrative Essay Outline

A narrative essay is a form of writing that tells a story. It can be personal, fictional, or based on real-life experiences. The structure of a narrative essay is crucial in order to effectively convey the story and engage the reader. Here are some key elements to consider when structuring a narrative essay:

• Introduction

The introduction should set the stage for the story and grab the reader’s attention. It should include the main idea or theme of the essay and provide some background information to give context to the story.

• Plot development

The body of the essay should focus on developing the plot of the story. This includes introducing the main characters, setting the scene, and building up to the climax of the story.

The climax is the turning point of the story, where the conflict or problem reaches its peak. This is the most intense part of the narrative and should be the highlight of the essay.

The resolution is where the conflict is resolved and the story comes to a conclusion. It should provide a sense of closure for the reader and tie up any loose ends.

The conclusion should reflect on the events of the story and leave the reader with a lasting impression. It should also reiterate the main theme or idea of the essay.

By following these key elements, you can effectively structure a narrative essay and create a compelling story that will captivate your audience.

Differences between Narrative Essays and Personal Narrative Essays

Narrative essays and personal narrative essays share similarities in that they both tell a story, but they differ in their purpose and focus. 

Personal narrative essays are autobiographical in nature, focusing on a specific personal experience and its impact on the author. They often delve into the author’s thoughts, emotions, and reflections, providing a deeper insight into the personal journey. Personal narrative essays may not necessarily follow a traditional narrative structure with a clear beginning, middle, and end. Instead, they emphasize the personal significance of the experience.

📘 Discover More: Evaluation Essay Examples for Students 📖

On the other hand, narrative essays are more versatile and can encompass a wide range of storytelling. While they can also be personal, they are not limited to autobiographical content. Narrative essays can include fictional or non-personal stories, and their primary goal is to entertain, inform, or convey a message. They often adhere to a structured narrative format with a plot, characters, setting, and a clear storyline.

In summary, personal narrative essays are specifically about personal experiences and their impact, while narrative essays can cover a broader spectrum of storytelling, including both personal and non-personal narratives.

Why Use Narrative Essay Examples

Narrative essay examples are a valuable tool for anyone who wants to improve their writing skills. By reading and analyzing these examples, writers can gain a better understanding of how to effectively structure and convey a story. Additionally, narrative essay examples can provide inspiration and guidance for those struggling to find a topic or develop their ideas.

The Usefulness of Narrative Essay Examples

These examples are useful for individuals at all levels of writing, from beginners looking for guidance to experienced writers seeking to refine their skills. They can serve as a reference point for understanding the elements of a well-crafted narrative, such as character development, plot progression, and descriptive language. Furthermore, these examples can offer insight into different writing styles and techniques, allowing writers to expand their repertoire.

How to Use Narrative Essay Examples Correctly

To effectively use narrative essay examples, writers should first read through the piece carefully, taking note of the narrative structure, language, and tone. Then, they should analyze how the author has effectively conveyed their story and consider how they might incorporate similar techniques into their own writing. It’s crucial to remember that while using examples as a guide is helpful, writers should always strive to maintain their unique voice and perspective in their work.

Narrative Essay Writing Checklist

• Clear and engaging introduction that sets the stage for the story.
• Descriptive language and vivid details bring the story to life.
• A strong and relatable main character that readers can connect with.
• Well-structured plot with a clear beginning, middle, and end.
• Dialogue that adds depth and authenticity to the characters.
• Use of sensory language to evoke emotions and create a strong atmosphere.
• Show, don’t tell – use actions and reactions to convey the story.
• Use of literary devices such as foreshadowing, flashbacks, and symbolism to enhance the narrative.
• A satisfying resolution that ties up loose ends and leaves a lasting impression on the reader.
• Careful proofreading and editing to ensure a polished and professional final product.

By following this narrative essay writing checklist, you can ensure that your narrative essay is engaging, well-structured, and leaves a lasting impression on your readers.

Narrative Essay Examples: Conclusion

In conclusion, narrative essay examples are a valuable tool for writers at all levels. By reading and analyzing these examples, writers can gain a better understanding of how to effectively structure and convey a story. Additionally, narrative essay examples can provide inspiration and guidance for those struggling to find a topic or develop their ideas.

By following the tips outlined in this guide, utilizing narrative essay examples, and keeping the narrative essay writing checklist in mind, writers can craft compelling and impactful narrative essays that engage and resonate with their audience.

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What is a Narrative essay?

A narrative essay is a type of writing that tells a story from the writer's personal experience. The typical narrative essay example is writing about your memorable experience or telling about how you have met your hero. You can sample narrative essay ideas by checking our examples.

How to write a Narrative essay?

To write a narrative essay, start by choosing a meaningful event from your life, use descriptive language to paint a picture for the reader, and reflect on the significance of the experience.

How to structure a Narrative essay?

A narrative essay typically follows a chronological structure, with an introduction that sets the scene, a body that builds the story, and a conclusion that reflects on the experience.

What is the purpose of a Narrative essay?

The purpose of a narrative essay is to share a personal experience and convey a lesson or insight gained from that experience.

How to choose a topic for a Narrative essay?

Choose a topic for a narrative essay that is meaningful to you, and has a clear beginning, middle, and end to create a compelling story. The examples of narrative essays that work for the typical college professors are those that help to reflect your personality or focus on important issues that will feel close to most people.

The most popular topics for Narrative Essay

• First Impression
• Helping Others
• Cultural Diversity
• Cultural Identity

Students also browse

• Memoir Essay
• Profile Essay
• Personal Narrative Essay
• Problem Solution Essay
• Persuasive Essay
• Cause and Effect Essays
• Evaluation Essay
• Critical Analysis Essay
• Definition Essay
• Personal Statement Essay

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Narrative Essays

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What is a narrative essay?

When writing a narrative essay, one might think of it as telling a story. These essays are often anecdotal, experiential, and personal—allowing students to express themselves in a creative and, quite often, moving ways.

Here are some guidelines for writing a narrative essay.

• If written as a story, the essay should include all the parts of a story.

This means that you must include an introduction, plot, characters, setting, climax, and conclusion.

• When would a narrative essay not be written as a story?

A good example of this is when an instructor asks a student to write a book report. Obviously, this would not necessarily follow the pattern of a story and would focus on providing an informative narrative for the reader.

• The essay should have a purpose.

Make a point! Think of this as the thesis of your story. If there is no point to what you are narrating, why narrate it at all?

• The essay should be written from a clear point of view.

It is quite common for narrative essays to be written from the standpoint of the author; however, this is not the sole perspective to be considered. Creativity in narrative essays oftentimes manifests itself in the form of authorial perspective.

• Use clear and concise language throughout the essay.

Much like the descriptive essay, narrative essays are effective when the language is carefully, particularly, and artfully chosen. Use specific language to evoke specific emotions and senses in the reader.

• The use of the first person pronoun ‘I’ is welcomed.

Do not abuse this guideline! Though it is welcomed it is not necessary—nor should it be overused for lack of clearer diction.

• As always, be organized!

Have a clear introduction that sets the tone for the remainder of the essay. Do not leave the reader guessing about the purpose of your narrative. Remember, you are in control of the essay, so guide it where you desire (just make sure your audience can follow your lead).