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A classification essay is a type of academic essay that categorizes a topic into distinct groups based on shared characteristics or criteria. The writer's purpose is to create a clear organization of information. Classification should be logical, making it easier for readers to remember the information being presented.

Let us guess: your professor asked you to write a classification essay. But they didn't explain how to even write one, did they? They often drop students like that as a part of self-learning. That's exactly why you're here! Writing a classification essay requires research. And making sure you've got enough information, you must double check what you've already gathered. Besides, classifying may sound simple, but it takes discipline and logical thinking. Putting thoughts into words and all that… What a task! But we heard a little rumor that those who continue reading would master classification papers. It's time for you to see if this rumor is true!  

What Is a Classification Essay: Definition

Classification essay doesn’t want to hide its essence, considering its name. But the primary goal of this type of article is to classify. Now, what you want to rank is up to you or your professor. Your main goal is to select topics and later put them into categories. The primary purpose of this type of essay is to show your skills in categorisation and generalization. We can take food as a good and tasty example. For instance, apples and oranges belong to the fruit category, while cucumbers will definitely be vegetables. As for avocado, you have to do the research and classify this type of food. Nevertheless, you’ll definitely need to write one of those essays during your college. So to master academic and classification writing, keep reading!  

How to Write a Classification Essay

We will start by teaching you how to write a classification essay. In this case, preparation is our little saving grace. So before you begin the actual writing, typing, or scribbling, it’s a good idea to think about the overall essence of your article. For starters, here are several valuable tips worth remembering:

• Select a type of organization (you can use tables, documents, or anything that will help you in organizing your work).
• Choose your categories for classification.
• Make sure that each category is distinct and clear.
• Include different examples for visualization.

These several steps will be handy for writing a thesis and starting your introduction. Buy essay papers online once you want good results with as little time spent as possible.

Developing an Effective Classification Essay Thesis Statement

Like with other articles, the classification essay thesis is one of the most vital parts of your work. A good thing worth keeping in mind is that your thesis is the last statement of your introduction. It also determines whether your audience will continue reading your article. Here are several things you should follow to write a good thesis:

• Summarize your work.
• Identify your main topic, objective, or goal of your essay.
• Above all, make readers understand what point you’re making and what your paper is gonna be about.
• Mention the categories you have chosen.

If you can nail our list given above, congratulations, you’ve got yourself an outstanding thesis.

Classification Essay Outline

Creating a classification essay outline is one of the easiest ways to approach an excellent classification paper. It’s true that it requires a lot of research and remembering. You will not only have to write about a single subject but group topics into categories. In order to do it correctly and understandably for the reader, it’s best if you use an outline. First and foremost, your essay should follow a traditional five paragraph essay format structure. It should have a minimum of three paragraphs. But typically, professors prefer around five. So your introduction must initially include an introduction, several body paragraphs depending on the length of your article, and a conclusion. In your body paragraphs outline, it’s a good idea to describe the groups you will include in your article. So your first paragraph will group fruits according to their color, while the second one can use nutrition for a classification. This will help you to remember your points before writing.  

How to Start a Classification Essay: Introduction

Classification essay introduction is very similar to any other introduction you have probably written. You should never forget that you are writing for an audience. Doesn’t really matter if your reader is your professor or some person online. The rules of good writing apply to any kind of paper. The first thing worth doing is introducing your overall concept. There is no need to give all the information at once. Just start with something more general and narrow it down later to a thesis we’ve talked about. Make sure that you also include the relevant information. Using our previous metaphor, if you’re talking about fruits, maybe mentioning vegetables will not be a good idea. Besides, staying on one topic will help you to write more clearly. And that’s our final requirement for your introduction.  

Body Paragraphs of a Classification Essay

Classification essay's main body commonly has around 1-3 paragraphs. But don't forget to ask your professor about the length. The important thing to remember is that you are classifying items in your work. In order to achieve precise and successful organization, your body paragraphs must be concise. Each body paragraph should focus on a certain group. You're not making mashed potatoes. So stacking all of your ideas in one section would create a mess. Keep it simple in terms of structure:  

• Paragraph 1 — fruits organized by their color
• Paragraph 2 — fruits arranged by expert location
• Paragraph 3 — fruits ordered by size or shape

A simple and understandable organization will make your writing sharp. And your readers will definitely say thank you!

Classification Essay Conclusion

A classification essay conclusion is, just like always, crème de la crème of any article. At this point, your reader knows everything you were telling them. They know all your data, issues, and ideas. Thus, quickly summarizing what they’ve read in your body paragraphs will help a lot. But the last thing to do is organize your conclusion while leaving an impression. Now, their impressions can be different. However, your readers must think about your work for at least some time. So your conclusion must end with something intriguing like the possible future of your topic or piece of mind for the readers. Just don’t include any new information, and you’ll do fantastically!  

Classification Essay Writing: Useful Tips

Even with our help, classification essay writing is challenging. So we prepared for you several good tips that will help you improve and ease your academic life. Check them out:  

• Define the purpose of the article before you start writing.
• Avoid popular and often used topics.
• Write down a number of topics before picking one. (We have a list of classification essay topics at your disposal.)
• Choose a subject that will be personally interesting for you.
• Remember that you are also writing for someone else who might not know everything about your topic.
• Edit and proofread your work.
• Take a break from writing once in a while and come back with a fresh mind and new look.
• Don’t try writing about everything simultaneously. Instead, focus on one category and lead with it.

With these steps, we can definitely say that you’re ready.

Classification Essay Examples

How could we leave you without classification essay samples? You’re right; we couldn’t. Check out this example. Keep in mind that our examples always have characteristics that we talked about. So you can read the sample and return back for this article or do some revision. It will help you a lot. What are you waiting for? You can find the example right here. Or simply buy essay for college to avoid any hard work this evening. 

Classification Essay: Bottom Line

Who knew that  writing a classification essay  wasn’t that hard? We did, and now you know that, too. You have everything it takes to create an excellent paper. You know that:  

• Your thesis is the most essential part of the essay.
• The introduction must contain general information on the subject.
• Body paragraphs must be carefully organized.
• A conclusion should leave an impression without including new information.

But if you’re still looking for proficient help, our academic writing services got you covered. Our writers do excellent research before writing a paper and deliver high-quality results. We are also proud of our timely delivery of the papers.

FAQ about Classification Essays

1. what is the purpose of a classification essay.

The purpose of a classification essay is to organize and classify. In the beginning, you have several unique items. They indeed have some things in common. So your job is to identify in what categories they fit best. After doing the research and careful learning, you must put everything you have gathered into words. But still, keep in mind that the second purpose is to make your essay and classification clear to the reader.

2. How long is a classification essay?

There’s no right or wrong answer when it comes to classification essay length. Everything will depend on the guidelines. Usually, such articles are 3 to 5 paragraphs long. Their minimum is always an introduction, one body paragraph, and conclusion. However, professors definitely enjoy 5 paragraphs as a standard length. But you always need to remember that the essay should be long enough to provide necessary information for the reader. Or it must be short enough not to drag it out.

3. What is the difference between a division and classification essay?

Division and classification essays are only slightly different. The items you choose for classification essays must belong to strict and certain categories. They cannot overlap or belong to two different groups. On the other hand, division essays allow the subjects to move from one group to another. They might be divided into different groups or categories and thus overlap.

4. What are different types of classification?

There are several types of classification. Depending on the particular topic, you can choose a specific type that fits the best. Here’s what you can choose from:

• Spatial classification (location, place and so on).
• Chronological (you must take time and dates into consideration).
• Classification by attributes (qualitative).
• Classification by size (quantitative with numbers and statistics).

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4.6: Classification Essays

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• Page ID 107760

• Kathryn Crowther et al.
• Georgia Perimeter College via GALILEO Open Learning Materials

Writing a Classification Essay

Start with an engaging opening that will adequately introduce the general topic that you will be dividing into smaller subcategories. Your thesis should come at the end of your introduction. It should include the topic, your subtopics, and the reason you are choosing to break down the topic in the way that you are. Identifying the reason or rationale for breaking down the topic in a particular way builds the argument that will become your thesis. Use the following classification equation to craft your thesis statement:

\[\text{topic} + \text{subtopics} + \text{rationale for the subtopics} = \text{thesis} \ldotp\]

The organizing strategy of a classification essay is dictated by the initial topic and the subsequent subtopics. Each body paragraph is dedicated to fully illustrating each of the subtopics. In a way, coming up with a strong topic pays double rewards in a classification essay. Not only do you have a good topic, but you also have a solid organizational structure to use as your outline while drafting. Be sure you use strong details and explanations for each subcategory paragraph that help explain and support your thesis. Also, be sure to give examples to illustrate your points.Finally, write a conclusion that links all the subgroups together again. The conclusion should successfully wrap up your essay by connecting it to your topic initially discussed in the introduction.

Sample Classification Essay

Types of Higher Education Programs

Today’s students have many choices when it comes to pursuing a degree: four-year programs, two-year programs, large or small classroom settings, and even daytime or evening classes. With all the different options to consider, potential students should learn about the different types of colleges, so they can find a school that best fits their personality, budget, and educational goals.

One type of higher education program for students to consider is a liberal arts college. These schools tend to be small in size and offer a range of undergraduate degrees in subjects like English, history, psychology, and education. Students may choose a liberal arts college if they want a more intimate classroom setting rather than large lecture-style classes. Students may also consider a liberal arts college if they want to gain knowledge from a variety of disciplines, rather than focus on a single area of study. Many liberal arts schools are privately owned, and some have religious affiliations. Liberal arts schools can come with a hefty price tag, and their high cost presents an obstacle for students on a tight budget; moreover, while some students might appreciate a liberal arts school’s intimate atmosphere, others might encounter a lack of diversity in the student body. Still, students seeking a well-rounded education in the humanities will find liberal arts colleges to be one option.

Universities, another type of higher education program, offer both undergraduate and graduate degrees. Usually universities are larger than colleges and can accommodate tens of thousands of students in many different majors and areas of study. A large student body means that class sizes are often larger, and some classes may be taught by graduate students rather than professors. Students will feel at home at a university if they want a focused academic program and state-of-the-art research facilities. While some universities are private, many are public, which means they receive funding from the government, so tuition is more affordable, and some even offer discounted in-state tuition for state residents. Also, universities attract many international students, so those looking for a variety of campus cultural groups and clubs will appreciate a greater sense of diversity among the student body. Universities can be overwhelming for some, but they are the right fit for students who seek research opportunities and academic studies, especially in the fields of mathematics and science.

Community college is a type of higher education program popular with students on a limited budget who want to take college courses but may not know what they want to major in. Most schools offer degrees after two years of study, usually an associate’s degree that prepares students to enter the workforce; many students choose to study at a community college for two years and then transfer to a four-year college to complete their undergraduate degree. Like liberal arts schools, classes are small and allow instructors to pay more attention to their students. Community college allows students to live at home rather than in a dormitory, which also keeps costs down. While some young people might not like the idea of living at home for school, many adults choose to attend community college so they can advance their education while working and living with their families.

Online universities are another type of higher education program that are gaining popularity as technology improves. These schools offer many of the same degree programs as traditional liberal arts colleges and universities. Unlike traditional programs, which require students to attend classes and lectures, online universities offer greater academic flexibility and are a great option for students wishing to pursue a degree while still working full time. At online universities, students access course materials, such as video lectures and assessments, remotely using a personal computer and are able to speed up or slow down their progress to complete their degree at their own pace. Students may attend classes in the comfort of their own homes or local libraries, but students hoping for the social community of higher education might not enjoy this aspect of higher education.

With so many colleges and universities to choose from, it may be difficult for a student to narrow down his or her selection, but once a student knows what he or she is looking for, the process may become much easier. It is very important for students to learn about the different types of higher education programs available before making their selections.

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Amy Tan describes relationship with her heritage, her mother, and her languages in " Mother Tongue   " ( https://tinyurl.com/hya7ob5 ). The essay is also available here ( https://tinyurl.com/y7gbr9hs ).

Contributors and Attributions    

Adapted from  Successful College Composition (Crowther et al.) . Sourced from  LibreTexts , licensed under  CC BY-NC-SA  .

Adapted from  Let's Get Writing (Browning, DeVries, Boylan, Kurtz and Burton) . Sourced from  LibreTexts , licensed under  CC BY-NC-SA  .

How to Write a Classification Essay?

17 July, 2020

8 minutes read

Author:  Elizabeth Brown

Classification essay is comparable to painting creation - an artist works on a specific structure that holds the picture’s elements together and glues different layers to create a powerful visual effect. The same principle applies to a writing piece, in which the central role is devoted to getting things in order. In this article, we’ll discuss the main features and components of a great classification essay and share some tips and tricks on how to take your piece of writing to the next level.

Classification essay definition

We bet the first thing you want to know concerning the topic is what is a classification essay? This is the task which you’ll most likely deal with at some point in your student life. The essence of this assignment is related to categorization and generalization. Remember these two words because they form the true meaning of classification essay. Also, division and classification are those elements of this essay type which highly correlate and have equal importance for essay creation. Therefore, the main task here is to organize or sort things into categories.

How to write a classification essay 

Careful attention to planning marks the indication of quality in terms of classification essay. At this point, the main task is to learn how to structure the paper. The length of an article may vary, but the most frequently used “five paragraphs” method is typically applied for classification writing. What does this structure suggest? It has to do with a logical division of your essay into blocks and categories, every one of which should clarify a particular issue.

The first and one of the essential paragraphs is the introductory one. It’s an opening which illuminates the matter you’re going to discuss and the subject you’ll categorize. Besides, you can outline the purpose of your classification essay to readers to bring more clarity into the discussion. Answer the question of why you are categorizing the chosen items and what criteria you use for each of them. Then, you’ll need to close the introduction paragraph with a thesis. It will briefly sum up the objective of your classification and division essay, and identify the categories which you’ll be using for a paper.

The second part is the essay body. Here, a couple of paragraphs are applicable, preferably 3 and more. The most critical nuance you should remember while composing a body is that each paragraph will deal with a separate category. The best way to organize the central part of your division essay is to explain the criteria for each category and desirably, discuss strengths and weaknesses. More importantly, you should include examples that’ll back up your statements with a piece of evidence. Notably, there should be an equal amount of examples for every category to spread the evidence evenly. If your paragraphs in the main body are lengthy, you can also divide them into shorter ones to create a smooth transition between the blocks of text and improve readability.

The final paragraph of your classification essay is a conclusion. The closing statements will sum up the different categories highlighted in the body. Also, it’s advisable to restate each category and advise readers on the subject matter. However, if you choose to recommend this or that topic over the others, don’t forget to state the reason for your stance. This way, readers will take into account your well-grounded explanation, which is deprived of subjectivity, and make relevant conclusions for themselves.

Apart from the basic understanding of classification essay structure , you should also get prepared for the writing process. For many, implementing theory on practice is even more challenging than the stage of composing an essay. Nonetheless, with enough patience and endurance, this process is really not so bad after all. So, what steps do you need to make in order to prepare well for classification paper writing?

First things first, planning is everything when it comes to the assignment that implies classification. Without a clear and coherent plan, there’s no way you can write a good paper. Therefore, make sure that you have a robust scheme before writing your essay. For this, proceed with the following planning steps:

• Generate Ideas. Evidently, your essay won’t write itself. If your professor has not assigned you a specific topic, it’s time to do some brainstorming. Remember – you need to choose a group of people, things, or ideas that can be easily divided into categories and then compared.
• Choose Your Classification Method. Aim at one principle for classification for each category you describe. For example, if you write about people, you can categorize them by age, gender, appearance, or other factors. This will help you better structure your essay and make it look more organized in the eyes of readers.
• Create a Thesis Statement. As previously mentioned, the thesis statement is the element which closes the introduction of your classification essay. It should include such information as the subject matter, the categories, and the criteria used to classify each category. Besides, you can note down the purpose of your division into these categories.

Classification essay outline

The outline is a general description or plan that schematically displays the main points of your essay. The main point of an outline is to help you see the structure of your essay and use it as a useful guide for writing. Usually, a typical outline describes the essence of each point in one sentence. Also, bullet points are not uncommon, so you can use them to arrange a plan the way you feel is the most appropriate.

Classification essay topics

There is a plethora of themes and subjects for division classification essays to choose from, but most of them are hard to think of straight away. That’s why we’ve collected the list of the top used classification topics for you to facilitate the process of generating ideas or searching for ones elsewhere.

• The most popular devices students use nowadays
• Colors and their meaning in the paintings of Frida Kahlo
• The evolution of rock-music types
• Standard methods students use to prepare for exams
• Public speakers that have moved the world  
• Unique factors to determine a successful relationship  
• How to improve child-parent relationships
• Main motives to start a political career
• Learning techniques for college students
• Types of TV comedy shows
• Traveling destinations
• The main types of mobile applications
• Communication possibilities online
• Strategies for making decisions in business
• Leadership and leader types
• Conflicts at the job and ways to cope with them
• The motivation for doing sports
• Methods to reduce stress

No matter which theme you choose for your classification essay and what techniques you implement to make them elaborated, remember always to keep the structure in mind. The first step to writing this type of assignment is not just sitting and jotting down detached ideas, but planning out clear statements which can later be transmitted on paper. Hopefully, our advice will help you on the way to writing an excellent classification essay which your professor will mark with an A+ grade.

Problems with writing Your Classification Essay? Try our Online Essay Writer Service!

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Ultimate guide to writing a classification essay, carla johnson.

• June 14, 2023
• Essay Topics and Ideas , How to Guides

When it comes to writing an essay, you can choose from many different kinds. A classification essay is one type of essay you might be asked to write. This article will tell you everything you need to know about how to write a classification essay.

A classification essay is a type of academic writing in which things, people, or ideas are put into groups based on the things they have in common. The goal of a classification essay is to help readers understand a complicated topic better by breaking it down into smaller, easier-to-understand pieces.

It’s important to write a classification essay for more than one reason. First, it lets you show how well you can analyze and organize information in a way that makes sense. Second, it helps you learn how to think critically because you have to judge and compare different things or ideas. Lastly, it can help readers who are trying to understand a complicated topic by breaking it up into smaller pieces.

In the sections that follow, we’ll give you a step-by-step plan for how to write a good classification essay. By following these rules, you’ll be able to write a well-organized, interesting essay that puts your topic into clear categories and gives your readers useful information.

What You'll Learn

Understanding the Elements of a Classification Essay

To write a successful classification essay, it is important to understand the elements that make up this type of academic writing. These include:

– Definition of classification: Classification is the process of organizing items, people, or ideas into categories based on shared characteristics. In a classification essay, you will use this process to group your topic into different categories that you will then explore in detail.

– Types of classification: There are several different ways to classify items or ideas, including by physical characteristics , function, importance, and chronological order. The type of classification you choose will depend on the specific topic you are exploring and the purpose of your essay .

– The importance of classification in writing a classification essay: Classification is a crucial element of a classification essay, as it allows you to effectively organize your ideas and present them in a way that is logical and easy to understand. By categorizing your topic, you will be able to provide valuable insights for your readers and help them better understand a complex topic.

Choosing a Topic for Your Classification Essay

Once you understand the elements of a classification essay, the next step is to choose a topic that is appropriate for this type of academic writing. Here are some tips to help you choose a topic for your classification essay:

– Identifying your audience: Before you choose a topic, it is important to consider your audience. Think about who will be reading your essay and what their interests and needs are. This will help you tochoose a topic that is relevant and engaging for your readers.

– Brainstorming ideas: Once you have identified your audience, start brainstorming ideas for your classification essay. Think about topics that you are knowledgeable about and that are interesting to you. Consider different categories that you could use to classify your topic.

– Narrowing down your topic: After you have generated a list of potential topics, it is important to narrow down your options. Choose a topic that is specific enough to be manageable, but broad enough to provide you with enough material to write about.

– Finalizing your topic: Choose a final topic for your classification essay once you have narrowed down your list. Make sure your topic is clear and to the point, and that it is relevant to the people you are writing for.

By following these steps, you’ll be able to choose a topic for your classification essay that is appropriate, interesting, and relevant to your readers. Make sure to pick a topic that is narrow enough to be manageable but wide enough to give you enough to write about. Once you have a good topic for your classification essay, you can move on to the next steps.

Pre-Writing Strategies for Your Classification Essay

Before you start writing your classification essay, it’s important to take some time to prepare and plan your approach. Here are some pre-writing strategies to help you get started:

– Conducting research: Depending on your topic, you may need to conduct research to gather information and examples to support your categories . This research can come from a variety of sources, including books, academic articles, and online sources.

– Creating an outline: Once you have gathered your research, create an outline for your essay . This will help you to organize your ideas and ensure that your essay flows logically and cohesively. Your outline should include an introduction, body paragraphs, and a conclusion.

– Developing a thesis statement: Your thesis statement is the main idea or argument that you will be exploring in your essay . It should be clear, concise, and focused on the categories that you will be exploring in your essay .

– Organizing your ideas: Once you have created your outline and developed your thesis statement , organize your ideas into categories. Think about the different ways that you can group your topic and create categories based on shared characteristics.

Writing Your Classification Essay

Now that you have completed your pre-writing strategies, it’s time to start writing your classification essay. Here is a breakdown of the different sections of your essay:

– Introduction: Your introduction should provide an overview of your topic and a clear thesis statement that outlines the categories you will be exploring in your essay.You should also provide some context for your topic and engage the reader’s interest.

– Body paragraphs: The main part of your essay should be broken up into paragraphs that each talk about a different topic . Start each paragraph with a clear topic sentence that says what category you will be talking about, and then back up your classification with examples and evidence. Use transitional phrases to link your paragraphs and help your reader see how your categories are related.

– Conclusion: Your conclusion should summarize the main points of your essay and restate your thesis statement in a memorable way. You can also provide some final thoughts or recommendations based on your classification.

Remember to use clear and concise language throughout your essay, and to provide examples and evidence to support your categories. By following these guidelines, you can create a well-organized and compelling classification essay that effectively categorizes your topic and provides valuable insights for your readers.

Tips for Writing a Successful Classification Essay

To write a successful classification essay, it’s important to keep the following tips in mind:

– Use appropriate language and tone: Your language and tone should be appropriate for your audience and the purpose of your essay . Use clear and concise language, and avoid using jargon or technical terms that may be unfamiliar to your readers.

– Make use of examples: Examples can help to illustrate your categories and provide evidence to support your claims . Use specific and relevant examples to help the reader understand the characteristics of each category.

– Use transitional words and phrases: Transitional words and phrases can help to connect your categories and create a smooth and cohesive flow in your essay . Examples include “firstly”, “secondly”, “in addition”, and “furthermore”.

– Use evidence to support your claims: It’s important to use evidence to support your claims and to make your argument more convincing. This evidence can come from a variety of sources, including research, personal experience, and expert opinion.

– Revise and edit your essay: Finally, it’s important to take the time to revise and edit your essay . Read through your essay carefully , checking for spelling and grammar errors, and making sure that your ideas are clear and well-organized.

 Classification Essay Examples

Examples of classification essays:.

1. “The Three Types of Friends Everyone Needs” by John Smith:

In this essay, the author categorizes friends into three types: the listener, the adventurer, and the loyalist. The author provides specific examples and personal experiences to illustrate each category, and uses transitional phrases to connect each paragraph. The thesis statement is clear and focused, and the language and tone are appropriate for the audience. Overall, this essay is well-organized and effectively categorizes the different types of friends.

2. “The Four Main Types of Exercise” by Jane Doe:

In this essay, the author categorizes exercise into four types: aerobic, strength, flexibility, and balance. The author provides examples and evidence to support each category, and uses transitional words and phrases to connect each paragraph. The thesis statement is clear and focused, and the language and tone are appropriate for the audience. Overall, this essay is well-organized and effectively categorizes the different types of exercise.

3. “The Five Types of Online Shoppers” by Sarah Johnson:

In this essay, the author categorizes online shoppers into five types: the bargain hunter, the researcher, the impulse buyer, the loyal customer, and the window shopper. The author provides examples and evidence to support each category, and uses transitional phrases to connect each paragraph. The thesis statement is clear and focused, and the language and tone are appropriate for the audience. Overall, this essay is well-organized and effectively categorizes the different types of online shoppers.

Analysis of the examples:

The structure and approach of all three examples of classification essays are the same. The authors give a clear thesis statement , group their ideas into categories, and back up their claims with examples and evidence. They also use transitional words and phrases to link their categories together and give their essays a smooth flow.

One of the things that makes these essays good is that they use examples and proof to back up their categories. By giving real-world examples, the authors are able to show what each category is like and make their case stronger. Another strength is that the language is clear and to the point, which is good for the audience and purpose of the essay.

One thing that could be better about these essays is that each category should be looked at in more depth. Even though the authors give examples to back up their claims, they could have gone into more detail about what each category is and how it fits into the bigger picture.

Classification Essay Topics

Here are some ideas to get you started:

– Types of social media users

– Different types of diets

– Types of students in a classroom

– Types of pet owners

– Different types of music genres

– Types of vacation destinations

– Different types of book genres

– Types of movie genres

– Different types of coffee drinks

– Types of personality traits

Frequently Asked Questions about Classification Essays

1. what is a classification essay.

A classification essay is a type of academic writing that involves organizing items, people, or ideas into categories based on shared characteristics.

2. What are the elements of a classification essay?

The elements of a classification essay include a clear thesis statement, organized categories, examples and evidence to support each category, and transitional words and phrases to connect each paragraph.

3. How do I choose a topic for a classification essay?

To choose a topic for your classification essay, consider your audience, brainstorm ideas, narrow down your topic, and finalize your topic.

4. How do I structure my classification essay?

Your classification essay should include an introduction with a clear thesis statement, body paragraphs that explore each category, and a conclusion that summarizes your main points and restates your thesis statement.

5. What is a classification essay thesis?

A classification essay thesis is the main idea or argument that you will be exploring in your essay. It should be clear,concise, and focused on the categories you will be exploring in your essay.

In this article , we’ve told you everything you need to know about how to write a classification essay. First, we talked about what a classification essay is and why you should write one. Then, we talked about the parts of a classification essay, such as the different kinds of classification and how important it is to organize your ideas.

We also gave you advice on how to choose a topic, do research, make an outline, and come up with a thesis statement. We talked about how a classification essay is put together, including the introduction, body paragraphs, and conclusion.

Then, to help you get started, we gave you some examples of classification essay topics and answered some of the most common questions about classification essays.

In the end, writing a classification essay can be hard, but it can also be fun. By following the tips in this article, you can write a well-organized, interesting essay that puts your topic into categories and gives your readers useful information. Make sure to choose a specific and manageable topic, use the right language and tone, and back up your categories with examples and evidence. If you have these tools, you should be able to write a good classification essay.

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When confronted with a complicated subject, we are often overwhelmed with information. A classification essay is designed to take a complex topic and break it down into more manageable and understandable categories, digestible pieces that a reader can easily break down.

This method of organization can be seen in how we structure and categorize our everyday lives. Take the Jefferson Learning Commons, as an example. The library houses thousands of books, which would be hard to browse if they were thrown haphazardly on shelves. Instead, all the fiction is organized alphabetically by author on the first floor, while the second floor houses all the non-fiction organized by subject. This allows a student to find the book they are looking for without searching every shelf.

Topics: When choosing a topic make sure the topic is complex enough to be divided into categories, while not being so broad that the reader is overwhelmed with categories.

Categories: Since a classification essay breaks a topic or subject into categories, it is important for each category to be distinct from one another. Categories that overlap will be nebulous and difficult for a reader to understand. Topics can be broken down many ways. If one way isn’t working, try brainstorming a new way to divide the topic.

Good Topic: Transportation

Categories:

• Taxi (Uber or Lyft)
• Personal Automobile

Each category is distinct from one another, with a single defining feature.

Bad Topic: Video game genres

• Roleplay (RPG)
• Japanese RPG (JRPG)

The differences of some categories are very murky. A RPG is defined by things like character creation and level progression. However, these two elements are found in many soulslike games. This makes the topic of video game genres difficult to breakdown into easily definable categories.

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• From Topic to Publication: Classification Essay Handbook
• Mastering The Art of Academic Essay Writing With Examples

Classification essays are among the common types of essays that students are assigned as a part of academic assessments. Although classification essays are quite simple and straightforward, there is a proper structure and format that you need to follow. Following the right format will give you an ultimate opportunity to score well in your classification essay tasks.

Table of Contents

• What is a classification essay
• How to write a classification essay
• Hook of a classification essay
• Thesis statement of a classification essay
• Outline of a classification essay
• Body of a classification essay
• Conclusion of a classification essay

Having said that, this is your all-inclusive guide to writing excellent classification essays that can serve as a perfect template for your fellow students. So, let us get started without further ado.

What is a classification essay?

As the name suggests, in a classification essay, you need to organize a topic or idea into different classes or categories. The topic here can correlate to tangible things like types (classes) of cars, supercomputers, constructions, or aircraft. Alternatively, the topic can also relate to some intangible concepts like psychological behaviors, leadership theories , motivators, or determinants of cognitive development.

Let us look at a few examples of classification essay prompts

• Discuss the various types of political systems prevalent in the world
• Shed light on the different types of democracies
• Discuss the various classes of leadership styles
• Discuss different types of child abuse and a possible response to the same

So, as you can see, each of these examples is asking you to discuss a topic in a way that you present the different classifications of the topic in a descriptive way along with examples if possible.

Like any other essay, a classification essay also has three sections inclusive of the introduction, body paragraphs, and conclusion.

Going ahead, this guide takes you through the entire process of writing an impressive classification essay starting with an impactful introduction. Further, the guide will discuss how you can arrange the topic into different categories in the body paragraphs. Lastly, the guide delineates how you can conclude a classification essay in an impressive manner.

How to write the introduction of a classification essay?

Let us now look at a section-wise approach to writing a classification essay beginning with the introduction. For better understanding, we can take an example essay prompt to explain what needs to be included in each section.

Example essay prompt: Shed light on the different types of democracies

An effective introduction is one that can create an immediate influence on the readers such that they feel enticed to read the entire essay with great curiosity. Besides, a great introduction should clearly explain to the reader what the essay is about and the key aspects it will be delineating.

So, if we talk about classification essays, the introduction should clearly establish the topic or the idea that you are organizing into different classifications. So, if we take our example prompt into account, the introduction will clearly state that the essay will delve deep into the different classifications of democracy.

Before we proceed ahead with the introduction, you need to know that an impactful introduction has the following elements:

• Background brief
• Thesis statement

Introduction element: Hook of a classification essay

A hook is the very first statement of the essay introduction that is aimed at creating an immediate impact. A hook can be made around statistics relevant to the topic, a strong claim, an unexplored fact, or even something humorous subject to the context of the essay.

The hook of your classification essay should introduce the broader topic in an effective manner to create importance around the topic. So, as per our essay prompt, the hook should make a strong claim about democracy or present an insightful fact relating to democracy. Let us look at a sample hook.

Example hook

In Greek history, while some cities were termed democracies, others were termed oligarchies and that is where democracy finds its origin.

In this hook, we have talked about the origin of democracy as a concept and it presents a little-known fact to the readers to grab instant attention. After the hook, you will include the background brief of the topic followed by the purpose of the essay. So, if we talk about this essay topic, you will then give a background brief of democracy and how democratic virtues have evolved over the years in a concise way, and how your essay aims at delving deep into the different forms of democracies. After the purpose, comes the thesis statement which is explained in the subsequent section.

Introduction element: Thesis statement of a classification essay

In the general context, a thesis statement concisely explains the central theme of the essay highlighting the main ideas that are discussed in the body paragraphs. For a classification essay, a thesis statement will explain how the essay sheds light on the different classifications of the topic at hand and also introduces the classes you will be mentioning. You need to specify the names of the classification and also explain the basis of classifications. The thesis statement basically labels the classes or categories that you are bifurcating the central top into.

You will get greater clarity when you look at the sample thesis statement of the classification essay prompt we have chosen as our example.

Sample thesis statement

The essay discusses the prominent classifications of democracy which include participative democracy, representative democracy, and direct democracy, and how they differ from each other.

This thesis statement establishes a clear understanding of the various classes of the central idea that will be discussed in the essay. Next comes the outline of the essay with which you conclude your introductory paragraph.

Introduction element: outline of a classification essay

In the outline of the essay, you need to explain the structure of the body paragraphs. Simply put, the outline defines what the body paragraphs will include. In the usual sense, an essay includes three to five body paragraphs. So, the outline will clearly demarcate what each body paragraph will include.

Let us look at the outline of our example essay prompt to establish a better understanding of how to explain the outline of the essay at the end of the essay introduction .

Sample outline

First, the essay elaborates on participative democracy along with examples of countries where participative democracy is prevalent. Secondly, the essay explains representative democracy and lists a few countries where this class of democracy prevails. Lastly, the essay elucidates direct democracy along with examples of countries where this class of democracy exists.

How to write the body of a classification essay?

Next comes the body paragraphs of a classification essay. This is where you need to organize the different classifications of the topic into different body paragraphs. In the usual sense, a classification essay includes three to four body paragraphs. So, if there are three or four classifications, you can conveniently add one classification to each body paragraph. However, there can be cases when there are seven to eight classifications of a topic. In that case, you need to club the classifications in a way that you can cover them in three to four paragraphs.

Also, after the number of paragraphs, the order of paragraphs is also a key consideration in a classification essay. The order can be from the least relevant to the most relevant or the other way around. This order needs to be coherent with the basis of the classification.

Having said that, you need to follow the right structure for writing a body paragraph. Speaking of the structure of a body paragraph, you need to include the following aspects.

• Topic sentence
• Evidence in support/ examples
• Concluding sentence

So, in a classification essay, the topic sentence will clearly explain the class that the body paragraph will be discussing along with the examples. In this way, by reading the first line of the body paragraph, the readers will clearly know what the body paragraph is about. You then need to define the category in a clear and concise way.

Going ahead, after the evidence and analysis, you need to give a brief conclusion at the end of the body paragraph. So, in a classification essay, you can conclude by discussing the merits, demerits, future implications, or changes in the current state of the category of the overall topic discussed in that particular body paragraph. Also, in an expository essay , it is imperative to end each paragraph with a transition sentence.

Let us understand the composition of the body paragraph of a classification essay through a sample.

Sample body paragraph

Participative democracy is one of the most prevalent types of democracies in contemporary times and empowers citizens to have a direct influence on political decision-making. To substantiate, in a participative democracy or participatory democracy, citizens participate directly in framing the political policies of the country (Martinez et al., 2008). In a participative democracy, the citizens have access to policymakers through different access points like town hall meetings. Further, citizens can also voice their concerns and influence political decision-making referendums and memorandums (Morel, 2012). It is analyzed that participative democracy exists in varying magnitudes across the globe with the most prominent examples being Spain and Italy. Countries all over the world are now making efforts to make their democracies more participative in nature and citizens also share the same ambition. However, there are also some limitations of participatory democracy that need to be taken into consideration. The participation of the public in policy measures can lead to unprecedented delays in decision-making and additional expenditure to create access points. Hence, countries need to maintain the right balance between participation in a democracy and other power-sharing arrangements.

As you can see, the body paragraph talks only about one classification of democracy discussing its definition, implications and limitations. Ultimately, there is a brief conclusion to the body paragraph. In a similar manner, you need to arrange every class (type) into different body paragraphs along the structure of a classification essay.

Lastly, after organizing every classification in body paragraphs, you then need to give an overall conclusion to the essay. The next section discusses how you need to go about the conclusion of a classification essay.

How to write the conclusion of a classification essay?

The conclusion of the essay needs to basically restate the thesis statement and the key ideas that have been discussed in the body paragraphs. What you can do differently in a classification essay’s conclusion is, you can draw a concise comparison between different categories or classes discussed in the body paragraphs.

So, if your classification essay is on the types of business automation tools , you can conclude along the lines of which classes of automation tools are the best. Alternatively, you can conclude by discussing which automation tools are in the highest demand in contemporary times. Let us make it clearer for you by putting forth the conclusion for our example essay prompt.

Sample conclusion

To conclude, all three classifications of democracy discussed in this essay have striking contrasts in terms of their features, feasibility, and context. It is analyzed that these forms of democracy can also co-exist in the same political system in varying magnitudes as different local governments in a country may exercise different forms of democracy. From the citizens' perspective, participative democracy is the most effective and desirable form of democratic governance as it gives them direct participation in political decision-making with respect to political measures.

We are sure that you already feel like an expert at writing classification essays having gone through this guide diligently. Irrespective of the topic, now you exactly know how you need to go about writing an excellent classification essay.

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How to write an argumentative essay

How to write a narrative essay

What makes classification essays different from other types of essays?

Most essays focus on discussing a point or evaluating a topic, while on the other hand classification essays solely focus on arranging and explaining various categories within the subject matter. They present information systematically and organized, allowing readers to comprehend the topic's different facets.

What are some effective strategies for transitioning between categories in my essay?

Effective transitions are vital to maintaining a smooth flow in your classification essay. You can use transitional words and phrases like "firstly," "next," "similarly," "on the other hand," "in contrast," "finally," etc. These transitional cues help readers understand the shift from one category to another.

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15.5 Classification Essay

Learning objective.

• Read an example of the classification rhetorical mode.

Types of Higher Education Programs

Today’s students have many choices when it comes to pursuing a degree: four-year programs, two-year programs, large or small classroom settings, and even daytime or evening classes. With all the different options to consider, potential students should learn about the different types of colleges so they can find a school that best fits their personality, budget, and educational goals.

One type of higher education program for students to consider is a liberal arts college. These schools tend to be small in size and offer a range of undergraduate degrees in subjects like English, history, psychology, and education. Students may choose a liberal arts college if they want a more intimate classroom setting rather than large lecture-style classes. Students may also consider a liberal arts college if they want to gain knowledge from a variety of disciplines, rather than focus on a single area of study. Many liberal arts schools are privately owned, and some have religious affiliations. Liberal arts schools can come with a hefty price tag, and their high cost presents an obstacle for students on a tight budget; moreover, while some students might appreciate a liberal arts school’s intimate atmosphere, others might encounter a lack of diversity in the student body. Still, students seeking a well-rounded education in the humanities will find liberal arts colleges to be one option.

Universities, another type of higher education program, offer both undergraduate and graduate degrees. Usually universities are larger than colleges and can accommodate tens of thousands of students in many different majors and areas of study. A large student body means that class sizes are often larger, and some classes may be taught by graduate students rather than professors. Students will feel at home at a university if they want a focused academic program and state-of-the-art research facilities. While some universities are private, many are public, which means they receive funding from the government, so tuition is more affordable and some even offer discounted in-state tuition for state residents. Also, universities attract many international students, so those looking for a variety of campus cultural groups and clubs will appreciate a greater sense of diversity among the student body. Universities can be overwhelming for some, but they are the right fit for students who seek research opportunities and academic studies, especially in the fields of mathematics and science.

Community college is a type of higher education program popular with students on a limited budget who want to take college courses but may not know what they want to major in. Most schools offer degrees after two years of study, usually an associate’s degree that prepares students to enter the work force; many students choose to study at a community college for two years and then transfer to a four-year college to complete their undergraduate degree. Like liberal arts schools, classes are small and allow instructors to pay more attention to their students. Community college allows students to live at home rather than in a dormitory, which also keeps costs down. While some young people might not like the idea of living at home for school, many adults choose to attend community college so they can advance their education while working and living with their families.

Online universities are another type of higher education program that are gaining popularity as technology improves. These schools offer many of the same degree programs as traditional liberal arts colleges and universities. Unlike traditional programs, which require students to attend classes and lectures, online universities offer greater academic flexibility and are a great option for students wishing to pursue a degree while still working full time. At online universities, students access course materials, such as video lectures and assessments, remotely using a personal computer and are able to speed up or slow down their progress to complete their degree at their own pace. Students may attend classes in the comfort of their own home or a local library, but students hoping for the social community of higher education might not enjoy this aspect of higher education.

With so many colleges and universities to choose from, it may be difficult for a student to narrow down his or her selection, but once a student knows what he or she is looking for, the process may become much easier. It is very important for students to learn about the different types of higher education programs available before making their selections.

Online Classification Essay Alternatives

Amy Tan describes relationship with her heritage, her mother, and her languages in Mother Tongue

• http://theessayexperiencefall2013.qwriting.qc.cuny.edu/files/2013/09/Mother-Tongue-by-Amy-Tan.pdf

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Classification Essay Guide

Classification Essay Outline

Last updated on: Feb 9, 2023

Classification Essay Outline - A Complete Guide

By: Cordon J.

Reviewed By: Rylee W.

Published on: Mar 22, 2022

A type of essay in which the writer classifies or categorizes subjects, objects, characters, events, or ideas, is called a  classification essay . Most high school and college students are assigned to do this type of essay.

Through this kind of essay, a teacher is able to analyze the student’s critical thinking ability and evaluation skills.

Have you been assigned to write a classification essay? Begin by writing a classification essay outline.

This guide will thoroughly explain to you the process of writing a classification essay outline. Along with the steps, there are multiple tips and examples for you to get a better idea of a classification essay outline and its structure.

So, without any further ado, let’s begin!

On this Page

How to Write a Classification Essay Outline?

An  essay outline  is written to enlist all the ideas and points that are further going to be elaborated in the essay. An essay outline provides a proper structure to the essay and determines the flow of content.

A classification essay outline will help you classify and organize the subjects being discussed. This is done in such a way that it is easy for the reader to understand and comprehend.

Not just the classification essay, but every type of essay requires you to draft an outline first. This is considered to be the prewriting phase of essay writing.

“How do you write an outline for a classification essay?”

To create a logical flow of information in the essay, a general format of a classification essay outline has the following sections:

• Introduction
• Body Paragraph 1
• Body Paragraph 2
• Body Paragraph 3

The number of paragraphs in your essay may vary according to your topic or the essay requirements. However, the general three sections of an outline are Introduction, body paragraph, and conclusion.

How to Write a Classification Essay Introduction?

The first section of a classification essay is its introduction. The introduction paragraph introduces the topic and the terms being discussed in the essay.

To ensure that a reader reads your essay thoroughly with interest, hook them to your essay right from the beginning. So, it is recommended to begin your introduction paragraph with a hook sentence on an attention grabber.

Once you have successfully hooked the reader to your essay, you can introduce the topic to your reader and provide relevant background. Lastly, you need to put forward our thesis statement towards the end of your introduction paragraph.

An effective introductory paragraph for a classification essay will have the following elements:

• Hook:  

A hook is an interesting attention grabber that compels your reader to read the essay further on. There are multiple types of hooks that can be used. You can view  hook examples  to select an appropriate hook for your essay.

You can select an appropriate hook according to the nature of your essay and the topic. If it is a serious topic you can begin with a fact or a quotation. However, if it is a funnier topic you can go for a light-hearted anecdote.

• Topic Introduction:  

Introduce the topic of your essay. If there are any technical terms try to explain them here. Otherwise, give a general overview of the topic briefly.

• Background or Purpose:  

Tell the background of your topic or the purpose of writing an essay on this specific topic. This will help in developing the context of your essay.

• Thesis Statement:  

A  thesis statement  is a two-three sentence statement. It tells your viewpoint or main claim of the essay to the reader. It should be concise and clear.

To properly end the introduction paragraph you can add a transition sentence at the end. This sentence will create the flow of your writing and connect the introduction paragraph to the upcoming body paragraphs.

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How to Write a Classification Essay Body Paragraphs?

The next section of your classification essay is the body. All the details that are to be written in an essay are mentioned paragraph-wise in the body section.

Usually, there are three body paragraphs. However, the number can increase according to the number of categories that you make.

Each body paragraph begins with a topic sentence that highlights the separate category being discussed in the paragraph. After the topic sentence, mention the supporting details and then end the paragraph with a concluding sentence.

The body paragraphs of a classification essay can be written in the following manner:

• Category:  Here you will mention the categories into which you have classified the subject or the topic. You also need to tell the criteria for classifying the subject accordingly.
• Explanation:  Explain the merits and demerits of the category or classification. Also, explain the classification more for clarification.
• Example:  Provide the relevant examples to authenticate your classification. Examples mostly act as evidence of your claim. So, make sure to write examples that are relevant and support your point of view.

How to Write a Classification Essay Conclusion?

Lastly, you will end your essay with a conclusion paragraph. The conclusion section is drafted to summarize the whole essay and to conclude the discussion.

Keep in mind that no new information or argument is ever added in the conclusion paragraph. Instead, the conclusion paragraph only summarizes the essay.

A wise strategy is to summarize each of the outline points in a single sentence within the conclusion paragraph.

The concluding parargaph of a classification essay should include the following information:

• Summary of the Arguments/Points:  All the categories or the classification discussed previously are summarized logically in the conclusion paragraph. Also, don’t forget to reiterate the thesis statement here.
• Mention the Future Recommendations:  At the end of the essay and the conclusion, mention the recommendations or future interventions. This means you can also provide a call to action.

Make sure to effectively conclude the essay else your whole essay can fall flat. Your conclusion should be such that it leaves the reader thinking about your essay

Significance of Writing a Classification Essay Outline

Most students usually jump directly to essay writing and start with an essay without creating an outline first. This is not a wise strategy and can cause writing troubles for you. Here is why writing a classification essay outline can help you:

• Provides a Clear Focus:  An outline helps the writer to remain focused on their topic and main points. Without an outline, you can get sidetracked and write extra on unnecessary information.
• Ensure a Logical Flow:  An outline helps you organize your points well. Thus, it ensures a logical flow and a smooth transition from one point to another.
• Prevents Structural Issues:  Through an outline, you clearly divide the information into the introduction, body, and conclusion sections of your essay. So, there are less chances of making any structural mistakes.
• Makes the Essay Concise and Precise:  Unnecessarily elongated pieces of writings are not at all impressive. It is always recommended that an essay should be concise and precise, rather than unnecessarily extensive. An outline helps you achieve this preciseness as it prevents you from deviating to irrelevant points.
• Helps to Organize Information:  While brainstorming ideas for an essay you think about multiple points to be written in your essay. However, not every point is relevant or important enough to be mentioned. So, with the help of an outline, you filter out the relevant points and organize them correctly for the essay.

These points tell you how significant it is to write an essay outline. They show you how an outline can help you improve your academic papers and writing skills.

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Classification Essay Outline Examples

Division and Classification Essay Outline

Classification Essay Outline Template

This guide would have surely helped you and guide you well on how to write a classification essay outline. Follow the above-mentioned guidelines. You will be able to create a good classification essay outline for your own classification essay topic as well.

However, if you still think you won’t be able to manage it by yourself, then don’t hesitate to take help from an essay writing service.

5StarEssays.com  offers customized “ write my essay ” help for any type of assignment. We write thesis, dissertations, essays, and other custom papers for students. Rest assured that all these papers are written by subject matter experts, so they are sure to impress your teachers.

Speech, Law

Cordon. is a published author and writing specialist. He has worked in the publishing industry for many years, providing writing services and digital content. His own writing career began with a focus on literature and linguistics, which he continues to pursue. Cordon is an engaging and professional individual, always looking to help others achieve their goals.

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Classification Paragraph, Essay, Speech, or Character Study: 50 Topics

With Prewriting Advice

• Writing Essays
• Writing Research Papers
• English Grammar
• Ph.D., Rhetoric and English, University of Georgia
• M.A., Modern English and American Literature, University of Leicester
• B.A., English, State University of New York

Classification allows writers to assemble thoughts in an organized manner, especially when writer's block may strike. It is particularly useful in identifying and illustrating different types, varieties, and methods. Classification pieces can become essays or articles in themselves, or they can also be useful as prewriting exercises for something longer, such as exploring a character being developed for a fiction piece.

"While classification has been used...as a method for organizing essays and paragraphs, classification and other traditional methods of organization [also] have come to be used as tools of invention, of systematically exploring subjects in order to develop ideas for an essay." — David Sabrio

Prewriting: Brainstorming

Making stream-of-consciousness lists can be a useful way to explore a topic. Don't let yourself pause for a few minutes, just write down whatever comes into your head about the topic. Don't censor yourself, either, as tangents may come in handy as surprising details to include or lead you down a path to a discovery that you may not have found otherwise. 

If you prefer visuals, use the mind map method where you write the topic in the middle of the page and connect concepts to it and whatever else you write down, radiating outward.

These types of prewriting exercises get your brain working on the topic so you have less to fear from that empty white page, and the prewriting can be a resource to mine at times when you might feel stuck for a direction. Having a "scraps" document can also help you store paragraphs or turns of phrase that you like but don't really fit—it feels better to relocate them rather than just delete them—when you realize that getting them out of your draft file helps you move forward with the piece overall. 

Classification Paragraph

Start your classification paragraph with a topic sentence to let the reader know what the paragraph will be about. This will likely include a list of the items you are classifying. Follow up with sentences that show how the items in the group are similar, how they differ or give some kind of exposition about how they are used or are observed. Finish with a concluding sentence. If the paragraph is intended to be the introduction to an essay, make sure there is a smooth transition into the main body of the essay.

Classification Essay

When broadening a piece into a classification essay use the classification paragraph mentioned above as an introductory paragraph. Add three or more body paragraphs. Each of these will take a different category and explore its strengths and weaknesses. Finally, a conclusion paragraph will summarize the body paragraphs, and perhaps make a judgment over which is the better option.

Classification Speech

A classification speech is different than a paragraph or essay. In such a talk, the speaker is likely looking for ways to tell an audience something in an organized manner. Rotary advises its members to give such speeches as ways to introduce themselves to fellow members.

Some of its advice for organizing thoughts:

• Why you chose your business or profession
• Parts of your job you find most rewarding and most difficult
• Advice you would give those entering your career

50 Topic Suggestions

These 50  topic  suggestions should help you discover a subject that particularly interests you. If 50 isn't enough, try " 400 Writing Topics ."

• Students in a library 
• Music on your phone or MP3 player
• Study habits
• Stand-up comedians
• Self-centered people
• Online educational resources
• Drivers in a traffic jam
• Reality shows on television
• Sales clerks
• Fictional detectives
• Dancing styles
• Video games
• Customers at your workplace
• Ways of boring people
• Rides at an amusement park
• First dates
• Videos on YouTube
• Stores in the mall
• People waiting in line
• Churchgoers
• Attitudes toward exercising
• Reasons for attending (or not attending) college
• Baseball pitchers, football quarterbacks, or soccer goalies
• Styles of eating in the cafeteria
• Ways of saving money
• Talk-show hosts
• Methods of studying for a final examination
• Ways of quitting smoking
• Attitudes toward money
• Television comedies
• Sports fans
• On-campus jobs for students
• Ways of coping with a cold
• Note-taking strategies
• Attitudes toward tipping in restaurants
• Political activists
• Portable music players
• Different uses of social networking sites (such as Facebook and Twitter)
• High school teachers or college professors
• Ways of protecting the environment

Model Paragraphs and Essays

Some examples to get some inspiration on the form:

• Draft Classification Essay: Types of Shoppers
• E.B. White's New York
• "Of Studies" by Francis Bacon
• "Conversation" by Samuel Johnson
• Sabrio, David. The Encyclopedia of Rhetoric and Composition. Collins, Christopher, executive editor, Oxford University Press, Oxford, New York, 1996.
• How to Prepare a Rotary Classification Talk https://www.rotaryroom711.org/portfolio/how-to-prepare-a-rotary-classification-talk-presentation/
• How to Develop and Organize a Classification Essay
• 60 Writing Topics for Extended Definitions
• What is Classification in Grammar?
• 501 Topic Suggestions for Writing Essays and Speeches
• What Is Expository Writing?
• The Ultimate Guide to the 5-Paragraph Essay
• 40 Topics to Help With Descriptive Writing Assignments
• Definition and Examples of Body Paragraphs in Composition
• Understanding General-to-Specific Order in Composition
• Understanding Organization in Composition and Speech
• How to Write a Descriptive Paragraph
• 6 Steps to Writing the Perfect Personal Essay
• Definition and Examples of Analysis in Composition
• How To Write an Essay
• 30 Writing Topics: Analogy
• How to Write and Format an MBA Essay

Classification Essay

Classification Essay Topics

A List of 270+ Classification Essay Topics for Your Next Assignment

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A Beginner’s Guide to Classification Essay + Examples, Topics, & Tips

Classification Essay Outline - A Step By Step Guide

Are you tired of the same old essay topics? Do you find yourself stuck in the monotony of choosing a classification essay topic? 

Choosing a perfect topic that is both interesting and impactful can be challenging sometimes, especially when you are short on time, but fret not! 

In this blog, we've got you covered with 270+ classification essay ideas for all academic levels. From science to arts and literature, we've handpicked topics for all major subjects for your classification essay . We'll also share tips on how to pick the perfect topic that suits you. 

So, let's dive into the classification topics right here!

• 1. Classification Essay Topics for 6th Grade Students
• 2. Classification Essay Topics Middle School
• 3. Classification Essay Topics For High School
• 4. Classification Essay Topics For College Students
• 5. Classification Essay Topics for ESL Students
• 6. Classification  Essay Topics About School
• 7. Classification  Essay Topics About Books and Literature
• 8. Classification  Essays About Science
• 9. Classification  Essay Topics About Technology
• 10. Classification Essay Topics on Psychology
• 11. Classification  Essay Topics About Health
• 12. Classification Essay Topics on History
• 13. Classification Essay Topics Sports
• 14. Classification Essay Topics Business
• 15. Classification Essay Topics Politics
• 16. Classification Essay Topics Arts
• 17. Classification  Essay Topics About Music
• 18. Classification  Essay Topics About Movies and TV Shows
• 19. Classification  Essay Topics About Shopping and Clothes
• 20. Classification  Essay Topics About Travel and Tourism
• 21. Good Classification  Essay Topics About Life
• 22. Classification  Essay Topics About Food 
• 23. Classification  Essay Topics About Animals
• 24. Classification Essay Topics Mental Health
• 25. Classification and Division Essay Topics 
• 26. Easy Classification Essay Topics
• 27. Funny Classification Essay Topics 
• 28. Tips to Pick a Classification Essay Topic
• 29. Tips For Writing A Classification Essay

Classification Essay Topics for 6th Grade Students

• Types of animals found in rainforests
• Subdivisions of the Olympic games.
• Classification of Physiological Disease
• The three best global cuisines
• The best ways to prepare for a final exam.
• Common allergies today
• Different types of self-care.
• Different styles of art in history
• Kinds of science experiments for beginners
• Types of plants in a garden

Classification Essay Topics Middle School

• Classifying historical events that shaped our world
• Types of ecosystems and their characteristics
• Varieties of poetry forms and their structures
• Different types of volcanoes and their eruptions
• Elements in the Periodic Table
• Kinds of geometric shapes and their properties
• Categorizing ancient civilizations by achievements
• Types of biomes and their distinctive features
• Different genres of fictional literature
• Classifying cellular structures in living organisms

Classification Essay Topics For High School

• Classifying literary movements in modern literature
• Types of political systems and their characteristics
• Varieties of environmental conservation strategies
• Different approaches to solving complex math problems
• Classifying major historical wars and their impact
• Kinds of computer programming languages
• Categorizing art movements throughout history
• Types of energy resources and their sustainability
• Different genres of music and their influences
• Classifying types of psychological disorders

Classification Essay Topics For College Students

• Classifying modern philosophical movements
• Types of sustainable business practices
• Varieties of marketing strategies in the digital age
• Different learning styles and their effectiveness
• Classifying programming languages for data science
• Kinds of entrepreneurial ventures and their models
• Categorizing architectural styles in urban design
• Types of renewable energy technologies
• Different genres of documentary filmmaking
• Classifying approaches to global economic development

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Classification Essay Topics for ESL Students

• Classifying traditional foods from different cultures
• Types of social media platforms and their uses
• Varieties of transportation systems in metropolitan areas
• Different learning apps for language acquisition
• Classifying historical landmarks in ESL-speaking countries
• Kinds of environmental issues and solutions
• Categorizing cultural celebrations around the world
• Types of leisure activities for language practice
• Different genres of multicultural literature
• Classifying global business communication styles

Classification  Essay Topics About School

• Effective study habits for academic success
• Types of peer-to-peer learning strategies
• Varieties of student leadership roles in extracurricular activities
• Different approaches to creative writing styles
• Classifying career paths in STEM disciplines
• Kinds of artistic expression in visual arts classes
• Categorizing healthy eating habits for student-athletes
• Types of historical movements explored in social studies
• Different genres of music explored in music classes
• Classifying coding languages for computer science projects

Classification  Essay Topics About Books and Literature

• Classifying classic novels by literary movements
• Types of narrative structures in fiction
• Varieties of poetic forms and their significance
• Different genres of mystery and detective fiction
• Classifying autobiographies and memoirs
• Kinds of fantasy worlds in literature
• Categorizing Shakespearean plays by themes
• Types of social commentary in contemporary literature
• Different approaches to science fiction subgenres
• Classifying non-fiction books by subject matter

Classification  Essays About Science

• Classifying types of renewable energy sources
• Varieties of cellular structures in biology
• Different categories of chemical reactions
• Classifying astronomical phenomena in space
• Types of environmental pollution and their impact
• Categorizing biomes and ecosystems
• Varieties of scientific research methodologies
• Different approaches to genetic engineering
• Classifying elements on the periodic table
• Types of renewable and non-renewable resources

Classification  Essay Topics About Technology

• Classifying types of mobile apps for productivity
• Varieties of programming languages and their applications
• Different genres of video games and their appeal
• Classifying social media platforms by user interaction
• Types of cybersecurity threats and prevention measures
• Categorizing wearable technologies and their functions
• Varieties of e-commerce models in the digital age
• Different approaches to user interface design
• Classifying types of artificial intelligence applications
• Types of emerging technologies in information technology

Classification Essay Topics on Psychology

• Types of psychological disorders and their symptoms
• Varieties of therapeutic approaches in counseling
• Different categories of personality traits
• Learning theories in educational psychology
• Types of memory processes and their significance
• Mental health stigmas and awareness campaigns
• Varieties of psychological development theories
• Different approaches to stress management techniques
• Types of psychological testing
• Types of motivation theories in behavioral psychology

Classification  Essay Topics About Health

• Types of exercise for physical fitness
• Varieties of dietary plans and their benefits
• Different approaches to stress reduction techniques
• Mental health strategies for well-being
• Types of alternative medicine and their practices
• Health benefits of regular sleep patterns
• Varieties of fitness apps for personal well-being
• Different types of diets for weight management
• Classifying types of cardiovascular exercises
• Types of meditation techniques for mindfulness

Classification Essay Topics on History

• Ancient civilizations by cultural achievements
• Varieties of historical revolutions and their impacts
• Different categories of military strategies in wars
• Major world religions and their beliefs
• Types of political movements throughout history
• Historical figures by contributions
• Varieties of architectural styles in different eras
• Different types of government systems in history
• Economic systems in various periods
• Types of cultural exchanges in historical trade routes

Classification Essay Topics Sports

• Types of team sports and their dynamics
• Olympic Games and their historical significance
• Categories of individual sports and their skills
• Popular sports fan cultures
• Types of training methods in athletic conditioning
• Extreme sports and their adrenaline rush
• Varieties of sports equipment and their applications
• Different approaches to sports psychology techniques
• Types of outdoor adventure sports
• Types of sports nutrition plans for athletes

Classification Essay Topics Business

• Business models in e-commerce
• Varieties of marketing strategies for small businesses
• Different approaches to corporate leadership styles
• Types of entrepreneurial ventures
• Types of financial management strategies in business
• Categorizing customer relationship management practices
• Varieties of business ethics and corporate social responsibility
• Different categories of international business models
• Types of advertising techniques
• Types of business negotiation styles and approaches

Classification Essay Topics Politics

• Political ideologies and their core tenets
• Varieties of electoral systems and their impacts
• Different approaches to international relations theories
• Types of political parties and their platforms
• Types of political leadership styles and their effects
• Forms of government corruption
• Varieties of human rights issues in global politics
• Different categories of political activism strategies
• Types of diplomatic negotiation techniques
• Types of political campaign strategies and messaging

Classification Essay Topics Arts

• Types of Olympic sports and their distinctions
• Different team sports and their unique dynamics
• Various athletic training programs for performance
• Extreme sports and the thrill they offer
• Martial arts and the philosophies behind them
• Nutrition plans tailored for sports enthusiasts
• Water sports and their distinct challenges
• Approaches to understanding sports psychology
• Diverse sports fans and their levels of enthusiasm
• Common sports injuries and effective rehabilitation techniques

Classification  Essay Topics About Music

• Genres of music and their cultural roots
• Types of musical instruments and their sounds
• Various songwriting techniques in music
• Music festivals categorized by themes
• Different styles of vocal performance
• Music production technologies in categories
• Varieties of dance styles in music videos
• Different genres of electronic music
• Music therapy approaches for well-being
• Music genres classified by mood and tempo

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Classification  Essay Topics About Movies and TV Shows

• Film genres and their unique characteristics
• Types of TV show formats and their popularity
• Various cinematic storytelling techniques
• Different approaches to film editing styles
• Streaming platforms and their content diversity
• Categorizing movie genres by audience appeal
• Iconic TV show characters and their traits
• Cinematic genres and their impact on culture
• Types of film scores and their emotional influence
• TV show themes classified by genre

Classification  Essay Topics About Shopping and Clothes

• Types of fashion styles and their influences
• Different shopping habits and consumer trends
• Varieties of clothing fabrics and their comfort
• Fashion accessories categorized by function
• Sustainable fashion practices and their impact
• Categorizing clothing brands by target audience
• Types of shopping platforms and their convenience
• Different approaches to thrift store shopping
• Essential wardrobe items for every season
• Fashion influencers and their style niches

Classification  Essay Topics About Travel and Tourism

• Adventure travel types and their thrills
• Approaches to cultural tourism
• Accommodation options for travelers
• Travel destinations classified by climate
• Sustainable tourism practices and impact
• Transportation modes for travel categorized
• Food tourism and culinary experiences
• Styles of solo travel and exploration
• Popular tourist attractions categorized by type
• Travel budgeting strategies

Good Classification  Essay Topics About Life

• Life goals and personal aspirations variety
• Different approaches to time management
• Varieties of problem-solving strategies
• Interpersonal communication styles categorized
• Types of coping mechanisms for stress
• Online learning styles categorized for personal growth
• Relationship types and dynamics variety
• Different philosophies on a meaningful life
• Hobbies and leisure activities variety
• Wellness practices for a balanced life types

Classification  Essay Topics About Food 

• Global cuisine types and their flavors
• Approaches to vegetarian diets
• Varieties of cooking techniques in culinary arts
• Dessert styles and sweet treats categorized
• Street food cultures around the world
• Coffee and tea varieties classified
• Ethnic spices and their uses
• Styles of food presentation
• Cooking shows and their formats
• Regional food specialties and their significance

Classification  Essay Topics About Animals

• Mammals and their diverse habitats
• Categories of bird species worldwide
• Marine life and ecosystems variety
• Reptiles distinguished by physical traits
• Insect behaviors and adaptive features
• Amphibians and their different life stages
• Endangered species and conservation efforts
• Animal communication methods in the wild
• Domesticated pets classified by traits
• Nocturnal animals and their unique adaptations

Classification Essay Topics Mental Health

• Mental health disorders and their symptoms
• Coping mechanisms for stress and anxiety
• Therapeutic approaches in counseling
• Mental health apps and resources categorized
• Meditation techniques for mindfulness
• Support systems for mental well-being
• Mental health stigmas and awareness
• Approaches to mental health education
• Mental health advocacy organizations classified
• Holistic practices for mental wellness

Classification and Division Essay Topics 

• Calming techniques that work
• Ways of coping with stress.
• Types of vitamins necessary for a healthy body.
• Classify school teaching methods
• The stages in computer evolution
• Good teachers vs. bad teachers
• Types of shopping behaviors
• How do different people treat flights?
• What are the different political parties?
• Family dinner ideas

Easy Classification Essay Topics

• Strategies to save money
• Types of sellers 
• Leadership skills
• Techniques to stay healthy
• Benefits of a balanced diet
• Ways to treat depression
• Forms of political systems
• Types of friends in a class
• Roles of women in different societies
• Types of workplace bullying  

Funny Classification Essay Topics 

• Ways to a woman’s heart
• Myths about Santa Claus 
• How to make your parents love you
• Ways to annoy people 
• How to avoid people 
• Classification of the types of sleepers 
• Different types of laughter
• Halloween makeup ideas 
• How to avoid apologizing to people
• Myths about the tooth fairy

Tips to Pick a Classification Essay Topic

Here are some tips for selecting a good classification essay topic:

• Passion Ignites Interest: Choose a topic that sparks your curiosity and passion; your enthusiasm will shine through your words.
• Audience Appeal: Consider your audience's interests. A captivating topic for them ensures engagement and a compelling read.
• Controversy Adds Flavor: Pick a subject with diverse opinions. Controversial topics often lead to thought-provoking discussions.
• Relevance Matters: Opt for a topic that relates to current events or trends. Relevance adds immediacy and interest.
• Scope and Depth: Ensure the topic has enough depth for exploration but isn't too broad. Striking a balance is key for a focused essay.
• Uncover Uncommon Angles: Explore unique perspectives within common topics. Unusual angles make your essay stand out.
• Personal Connection: If possible, choose a topic that holds personal significance. Your genuine connection will enhance your writing.

Tips For Writing A Classification Essay

A division and classification essay is a type of essay where you categorize and organize different items into distinct groups. This essay type allows you to showcase your analytical skills by sorting things into specific categories based on shared characteristics.

Here are some essential tips for writing a perfect classification essay:

Choose a Topic Wisely

Start by selecting a topic idea that genuinely interests you from the provided classification essay topics list. Consider the purpose of your essay and choose a subject that allows for diverse categorization.

Craft a Thoughtful Thesis Statement

Develop a strong thesis statement that clearly indicates the categories you will explore in your essay. Ensure your thesis is specific and provides a roadmap for your readers.

Create an Essay Outline

Plan your essay by creating your classification essay outline . This helps organize your thoughts and maintain a logical flow. Break down your essay into an introduction, body paragraphs, and a conclusion.

Don't Forget to Include Examples

Support your categories with concrete examples to illustrate each classification. Providing examples enhances the clarity and understanding of your essay.

Be Mindful of Your Audience

Consider your audience when choosing a topic for a classification essay. Ensure it's something that resonates with them and piques their interest.

Revise and Refine

After writing your first draft, revisit your work for revisions. Ensure that each category is distinct and that your essay effectively achieves its purpose.

Emphasize Clear Organization

Maintain a clear and logical organization throughout your essay. Each category should have a distinct purpose, and transitions between categories should be smooth.

Check for Consistency

Verify the consistency of your classifications. Ensure that each category aligns with your overall thesis. Eliminate any overlap or confusion between categories.

Remember, the key to a successful classification essay lies in thoughtful organization, clear examples, and a well-defined thesis statement.

In conclusion, we hope this blog has been a valuable resource in helping you select the perfect topic for your classification essay. Our curated list of ideas aims to inspire and guide you in crafting a compelling and well-organized essay. 

However, if you still find yourself unsure of where to begin your classification essay journey, don't hesitate to seek professional help. 

The experts at MyPerfectWords.com are available 24/7 to provide the assistance you need. 

Reach out to our professional writing service today and ensure you receive the grades you deserve. Your essay success is just a click away!

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Types of Students Classification Essay - Writing Guide with Examples

A classification essay's primary goal is to categorize ideas, characters, or objects with shared traits into specific classes. Most frequently, such paper is assigned at the college level. The classification essay writing involves in-depth research. You have to consider the features or categories that are the basis of your classification and make sure they are related to each of the subject matters.

• Food (tastes, ways of cooking, energy value)
• Music (genres, band/one artist, ideas emphasized in lyrics)
• Movies (genres, duration, cast, special effects used)
• Types of students (performance in middle school, high school, or college)

Depending on the given topic, you should pick an appropriate organizing principle. This way, if you're writing a "Types of students" classification essay, focusing on the learners' hair color or height will be a wrong approach.

Guide and Tips for Classifying

Classification and division essay needs a specific writing strategy. It's not a compare-contrast assignment. Here, you have to look for common principles and features that will help to perceive a group (of people, movies, songs, etc.) as a whole. However, students will benefit from developing several compare and contrast tables to see what aspects can unite and classify the subjects that sometimes appear to be absolutely different.

In our guide, we would like to focus on the classification essay content. But for that, we have to decide on the topic first. As a high school or college student, you are probably completely immersed in academic life. You understand what kind of learners your college pals are and what your own attitude to education is. Hence, in our samples and guidelines, we want to focus on a preferred stock classification solution we've mentioned before - "Types of students" classification essay.

High School and College Students Classification Essay

Before we move to our free essay sample, you should mind the basic tips on how to write a good classification assignment. Let's recall its main steps:

• Collect ideas and decide on a topic. You have to understand what subjects you are going to classify in your writing. That can be people, characters, cars, sports, food, etc.
• Develop a thesis statement and organizing principle. Remember that you should focus on one feature for classification. For instance, attitude toward education - for different types of students.
• Plan the entire process (outline). To make your essay well-structured, it's always better to develop an outline in advance and indicate all the important features you are going to dwell on.
• Conduct classifying research. To group or diverse the subjects, you have to provide reasonable evidence. For a relevant classification, "I just want to combine those in one group" idea isn't enough.
• Come up with conclusions. Your classification essay will have a higher value if, in the end, you are able to explain what that classification can be used for. Does it help to perceive the group of things or people better? Can it help to make a certain decision?

Now, it's time to proceed with the different types of students in high school/college. Below, you will find several examples based on certain groups of learners. We hope those samples will help you understand how to write this assignment and what issues should be highlighted there.

Underachievers

"Motivation is a key success factor when it comes to education or work. People who lack motivation tend to perform worse than their inspired colleagues. Some learners are thrown in lower sets due to their behavior, not intellect or competence. Except for the cases of disabilities or mental issues, all people are born equal and have more-or-less equal skills. So, if some of them start performing worse in specific fields, it's basically because of no interest in the subject or misunderstanding of the value. This student will follow the path of an academic underachiever.

Academic underachievement can be the result of in-school factors. Subcultures, school hierarchy, gender division, setting - those are all factors that can shape a student's performance. Any form of discrimination, like racism or gender inequality, may have a negative impact on the behavior of learners. Out-of-school factors also influence the academic performance of an individual. Those include such issues as material and cultural deprivation."

That was an excerpt from the essay on various types of students with the focus on underachievers. And, there are two more groups of learners for your consideration.

"The word 'mediocre' refers to something average. A mediocre student performs above the lowest grades but is still doing worse than the best learners who tend to earn only As and Bs. An average grade of a mediocre student is C, and they're fully satisfied with the outcome. It means they know only the basics of a subject, having no in-depth knowledge or extra enthusiasm for learning. Unlike the underachievers who can be justified with the challenging obstacles, the main problem of the mediocre learners is laziness. It leads to procrastination that makes students be late with their assignments and miss the deadlines. Sometimes, a lack of motivation is also detected.

Some students of the mediocre type hope their parents will figure it out and pay for their higher education. However, the rates are going up, so such young people should dedicate more time to their school education.

One of the ways to overcome high payment rates for a college education is to prepare a winning scholarship essay. This way, even a mediocre student has a chance to survive..."

This free essay sample part tells about another type of student classification. So, it's time to analyze the last one.

Overachievers

"Every fall, millions of US teens gear up to apply for the colleges and universities. So-called overachievers do not have to get ready by spending sleepless nights recalling what they have learned - for them, the application process is always simple and smooth. They merely need to write their personal statements, and their overall GPA is enough to impress the board and prove their skills and knowledge. Overachiever is one who hasn't followed the instructions and created a brilliant essay anyway.

Scientists proved, however, that overachievers may experience various life difficulties and issues with health. Those kids frequently suffer from such problems as:

• Attention-deficit
• Clinical depression
• Suicidal ideation
• Hyperactivity
• Chemical abuse

They get stressed because of learning hard and doing so many things simultaneously. Overachievers rest less than others do - less hard-working and motivated students. By having a look at such a learner, one can notice the obvious negative consequences of overstudying."

In these paragraphs from types of students classification essay, the overachievers are described. As you can see, we've tried to emphasize different aspects of these academic groups - that helps to unite their representatives according to the features and characteristics they have.

So, we hope our examples will ease your classification essay writing. But remember about plagiarism - any copy-pasting may lower your grade for this assignment!

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Classification Essay

Classification Essay - Outline, Topics & Writing Tips

Published on: Jan 2, 2022

Last updated on: Jan 31, 2024

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Classification Essay Outline - A Step-by-Step Guide

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Most high school and college students are often assigned to write a classification essay at some point in their academic life. Teachers assign this task to evaluate the student’s skills to categorize things. It can be a daunting task, but with the help of basic techniques, you can make the writing process easier.

Here are a few tips and guidelines that you can use to structure your classification essays properly. You have to plan your essay and figure out the categories beforehand to complete this assignment easily.

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Classification Essay Definition

A classification essay is a formal piece of writing used to evaluate your categorizing and generalization skills. It mainly aims to arrange various subjects and objects with similar characteristics.

For this, a writer needs to categorize and classify things into different groups and mention examples that fit into each. Similarly, you are also required to follow a single categorizing approach throughout the content. However, it is up to you to decide on criteria for classification to explain the reasoning and logic.

The entire process of classification essay writing is not very different from any other type of essay. Like other academic papers, the principles of essay writing remain the same, but it requires extensive research and analysis.

How to Start a Classification Essay?

Here are some important steps that you should follow to start a classification essay.

Most professors assign you a specific topic to write your classification essay. If you are not assigned, brainstorm different ideas and come up with an engaging topic. Decide on a group of things that can be logically divided into groups. Also, come up with something that has definitive categories for comparison.

After choosing a topic, decide on classification criteria. Think about all the possible categories in which the topic can split up. Some topic ideas have several options; thus, you will have to determine the exact angle to approach the essay’s theme. Furthermore, make sure that none of the categories is overlapping.

A  thesis statement  is the main argument of the writer on the topic. It is the stance that supports your entire essay, including the main body. Therefore, it is important to draft a strong statement. Also, use examples and evidence to make your essay effective and persuasive.

The next step is to conduct thorough research to gather interesting information for the audience. However, make sure to collect data from credible and authentic sources. It will further strengthen the content of your essay by making it more convincing and logical.

After collecting relevant information, you are now required to structure and organize it properly. Thus, write down the main ideas and present a logical connection between them. Eliminate unnecessary ideas if there are any.

Check out the following template outline that you can use for your division and classification essay.

• Introductory paragraph - (A hook statement and thesis)
• Body paragraph 1/Category number 1
• Body paragraph 2/Category number 2
• Body paragraph 3/Category number 3

How to Write a Classification Essay?

After planning out the basic structure, start the writing process. Follow the below-given steps to write a perfect classification essay.

The introduction is the first and the most important section of the classification essay. Here, you have to identify the subject and mention the objects to be categorized.

State an interesting hook statement to make your introduction appealing. Such as strong opening line will grab the reader’s attention towards the essay. After this, provide the purpose of the essay and explain the reason for categorizing the items.

Lastly, write a strong thesis statement to highlight the subject matter in the discussion. Develop this statement early during the writing process as it will help the writer stay in the right direction.

The body section of the classification essay comprises three or more paragraphs depending on the categories. All the paragraph provides relevant information, examples, and evidence to justify the thesis statement. Also, start each paragraph with a topic sentence.

The right approach is to discuss the most important category in the last paragraph. Use classification essay transition words to ensure that the data flows logically from one paragraph to another.

The following are some common transition phrases. Apply them each time you arrange things into groups and provide examples related to each class.

• The 1st kind, the 2nd kind, the 3rd kind
• The 1st group, the 2nd group, the 3rd group
• The 1st category, the 2nd category, the 3rd category

It is the last section of a classification essay where you put together all the categories mentioned in the main body. Here, a writer will summarize all the central arguments and restate the thesis statement.

Also, mention the various types and approaches that you have examined in your classification essay. Recommend the particular one over the others, depending on the subject matter. However, make sure to emphasize why you have come to that conclusion.

The first draft of your classification essay is full of mistakes, but you can fix it up by editing and revising. For this, read your essay twice or thrice and ensure that it includes all the important points highlighted in the outline.

Eliminate all the language, punctuation, and spelling mistakes to give it a professional look. Similarly, get rid of all the unnecessary and overly complex words and phrases before the final submission.

Classification Essay Examples

Have a look at the following classification essay examples to understand writing a good one in no time.

Classification Essay Sample

Classification Essay Example About Students

Classification Essay About Food

Classification Essay Topics

Not all ideas can be good topics. Here we have mentioned some of the best topics for a classification essay, divided into several categories. It will help you choose a unique one for your essay.

• Olympic games
• Different genres of modern music
• Rare species of animals
• Types of dogs
• Ways to treat obesity
• Types of human relationships
• Common phobias
• Psychological disorders
• Movies about memory loss
• Meals that may lead to diabetes

Tips for Writing a Classification Essay

Keep in mind the expert tips given below while writing a good classification essay. It will make your essay stand out and draw the reader’s attention.

• It is better to avoid choosing complex topics because extremely narrow or broad topics are hard to deal with.
• Conduct extensive research to gather factual data for the essay.
• Make sure to define and describe all the categories.
• Provide authentic evidence and examples for each classified group. Make sure it offers a typical representation of the class.
• Use credible sources of information.
• Draft a perfect outline to organize the data properly.
• Use a comparison and contrast technique to point out various similarities and differences between each category.
• Proofread and revise your essay to make it perfect.

These are a few guidelines that will help you write an A-worthy classification essay. Planning out the assignment early and figuring out the categories is the key to success.

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Classification Essay

Classification Essay Topics

Last updated on: Apr 9, 2024

Interesting Classification Essay Topics and Ideas (2024)

By: Barbara P.

10 min read

Reviewed By: Jacklyn H.

Published on: Mar 24, 2023

Are you struggling to come up with a great topic for your classification essay? Look no further! 

We've got you covered with an extensive list of interesting and thought-provoking classification essay topics. Whether you're writing about your favorite movies, the types of friends you have, or the different types of pets, we've got something for everyone. 

So get ready to explore new ideas and organize your thoughts in an engaging way as we take a deep dive into the world of classification essays. 

Let's get started!

On this Page

Classification Essay Topics Examples

For so many people, coming up with a creative idea is one that we all struggle with.

However, once left scrambling, there's nothing worse than having wasted time on something ultimately uninteresting or unfeasible. Because what do students have if they don't know how to write essays well anymore?

These easy classification essay topics examples will help in developing good content easily for any student who needs them. Whether doing work at home or even college-level material, this list of classification essay topics with categories provides plenty of ideas. 

Classification Essay Topics List for High School Students

• 3 classifications of religion
• Why do people move in with a partner?
• Different types of dances
• Different ways to spend time with your family
• Different types of buying behaviors
• Common stereotypes in our culture
• Different types of roommates in college
• Best TV shows to watch
• Different ways to compliment a woman
• Types of animal cruelty

Classification Essay Topics for College Students

Here is a list of classification essay topics for college:

• Different levels of college degrees
• Types of artists
• The different types of relationship
• Exercises for bodybuilding
• Good teachers vs. bad teachers
• Different nationalities
• Types of readings
• Types of high school teachers
• Different studying methods
• Types of books

Classification Essay Topics for 6th Graders

• Different teaching strategies
• World’s best places for vacation
• Nicknames for a friend
• The benefits of sarcasm
• Best living room decor ideas
• Ways to quit smoking
• Types of guys you should date
• What are the most popular jobs?
• Things that motivate people
• Different voting systems

Classification Essay Topics for ESL Students

• How to handle conflicts with others?
• The quickest way to a man's heart
• Different reasons people create art
• Climatic zones of the world
• Different types of eateries
• Different ways to get rid of cold
• Spending habits of teenagers
• Difference between bullying and teasing
• Types of social media content
• Common diet myths

Classification Essay Topics Sports

• Different types of water sports
• Which winter sport is best?
• Types of weight training
• The most unusual sport
• Pro soccer leagues
• Different kinds of team sports
• Most famous auto races in the world
• The greatest athletes of all time
• Most popular sports in the world
• Best types of gyms

Funny Classification Essay Topics

• Different ways to win a girl's heart
• Myths and the real story of Santa Claus
• Ways to show love to your parents
• Ways to tease people
• Best ways to avoid people
• Types of sleepers
• Types of laughter
• Brilliant Halloween makeup ideas
• Tooth fairy myth and reality
• Types of movie endings

Classification Essay Topics on Psychology

• What events can cause PTSD?
• Types of therapies
• Classification of gender dysphoria
• Causes of anxiety among college students
• Childhood mental disorders
• Ways to overcome anxiety
• Types of common phobias
• Classification of responsibilities
• Types of communication disorders
• Types of depression

Classification Essay Topics on History

• What maintains peace and security?
• Different types of printing techniques
• Types of ancient warfare
• Successful military commanders in world history
• Countries that made the Soviet Union
• Why is Julius Caesar a great leader?
• Achievements of Che Guevara
• The most famous U.S. presidents
• What are the 3 major revolutions?
• Major accomplishments of Leonardo Da Vinci

Classification Essay Topics on Science and Technology

• Theories of the origin of life
• Different climate zones of Earth
• Types of mobile applications
• Types of computers
• Types of smartphones
• Types of search engines
• 10 technological advances
• Computer users main types
• Online educational resources
• Computer versus tablet

Classification Essay Topics Arts 

• Exploring the different approaches to art therapy 
• Examining various types of theatre performances 
• Analyzing the impact of popular music on society 
• Understanding the different forms of traditional folk art  
• Investigating how technology is changing the arts industry  
• Classifying dance genres and their origins 
• Exploring the different techniques used in drawing and painting  
• Examining how media influences contemporary art 
• Comparing different forms of literature from around the world 
• Understanding the relationship between architecture and society.

Classification Essay Topics Business 

• The different types of businesses and their benefits 
• Exploring the pros and cons of franchising 
• Understanding the role of advertising in business  
• Examining strategies for purchasing a franchise 
• Comparing strategic planning techniques in business  
• Classifying different types of entrepreneurship 
• Understanding risk management principles in business 
• Exploring the impact of globalization on business  
• Analyzing different approaches to leadership in business 
• Examining the relationship between corporate social responsibility and business performance. 

Classification Essay Topics Politics 

• Exploring the different types of political ideologies 
• Comparing different forms of government around the world  
• Analyzing the role of international organizations in politics 
• Examining the impact of social movements on politics  
• Classifying different political parties and their agendas  
• Understanding how media influences public opinion 
• Investigating the relationship between politics and religion  
• Comparing different approaches to political campaigns 
• Examining the impact of special interest groups in politics 
• Analyzing how technology is changing the political landscape. 

Unique Classification Essay Topics

• Exploring the different types of personalities and their characteristics 
• Classifying the different forms of environmental pollution  
• Understanding how to identify fake newsjhbnnb
• Analyzing the various types of cybercrime 
• Comparing different methods for managing stress  
• Examining the pros and cons of social media usage 
• Classifying different types of supernatural phenomena  
• Exploring the various uses of artificial intelligence  
• Investigating how technology is affecting human interaction 
• Comparing different approaches to education.

Classification Essay Topics About Economics 

• Exploring the different types of economic systems 
• Analyzing how government policies affect the economy  
• Examining supply and demand in economics  
• Comparing different forms of business organizations 
• Understanding the role of market structures in economics 
• Classifying different types of taxes and their effects  
• Investigating the relationship between inflation and interest rates  
• Exploring how economic factors impact globalization 
• Analyzing the impact of technology on economics 
• Examining different investment strategies.

Examples of Classification and Division Essay Topics

• Types of memes
• Types of gamers
• Are political parties factions?
• Types of abstract art
• Classification of street art
• Modern forms of education
• Different ways to improve relationships
• Forms of extreme sports
• Different types of readers
• Most popular stereotypes

Classification Essay Topics Mental Health

• The impact of social media on mental health 
• Benefits and risks of using psychiatric medications 
• Different types of mental illnesses and therapies are available 
• The role of family in supporting mental wellbeing 
• Identifying signs and symptoms of mental illness 
• The challenges of accessing mental health care services 
• The role of technology in treating mental illness 
• Understanding how cultural and social factors affect mental health 
• Examining the impact of traumatic experiences on mental health 
• Exploring the association between substance abuse and mental illness

Classification Essay Topics for College

• Different types of college degrees and their advantages 
• The pros and cons of online learning 
• Understanding the cost of a college education
• How to balance work, study, and social life in college
• Examining student debt and financial aid resources 
• Exploring different options for studying abroad  
• Exploring the impact of technology on higher education 
• Identifying different career paths after college graduation 
• The role of mentors and advisors in supporting student success 
• Understanding the benefits and challenges of being a working student.

Division and Classification Essay Topics 

• Examining different types of dating relationships 
• Exploring the benefits and risks of international travel 
• The pros and cons of different social networking platforms  
• Understanding the different forms of government in the world
• Classifying dramatic genres in film and tv series 
• Investigating the various styles of music 
• Analyzing the different types of art movements 
• Comparing different religions and their belief systems 
• Exploring the different ways to conserve energy in homes. 
• Identifying the benefits and drawbacks of eating meat versus vegetarianism.

Tips for Choosing the Best Classification Essay Topic?

The importance of choosing the right topic for your essay is undeniable. No matter which piece of work you are drafting, the topic matters. It's a major factor in whether or not an audience reads past that first paragraph.

The best topics for classification essays are those that will be creative and expressive. Choosing a topic takes time, effort, and consideration on your part.

Don’t forget - It’s important to find something unique.

The following steps provide more details:

• To come up with a good topic, consider something you're passionate about. There are many topics that will be engaging to write on, so it's worth the time looking for one.
• You need to choose topics that are interesting, creative, and engaging. A topic needs to be viewed from different perspectives for it to hold attention. If you don't have anything exciting or unique about your subject matter, discard the idea altogether.
• A good classification essay topic should be broad enough to fit into several categories. So that readers are more likely to find it interesting and diverse.
• The audience you are drafting for can help determine what your topic will be. Consider finding out who the intended reader is and think about how they might react to different aspects of your writing. This may include a delightful story or one filled with statistics that may overwhelm them.

Ultimately,?

If you're looking for some good classification essay ideas, this blog is what you needed exactly. Once you have taken the steps mentioed above, it will finally be time to start drafting your content. Choose one of these ideas and get ready with your research materials.

To write a classification essay, one must make sure that the topic chosen is exciting for readers. If you find writing this essay difficult, take professional help from experts. They will provide ideas to guarantee better grades with an engaging and interesting piece.

MyPerfectPaper.net  is a company that provides educational writing services. We help people with all assignment types, whether they be academic or personal in nature.

Trust us and rely on our write my paper service for the best possible wriiting help available online! 

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Dr. Barbara is a highly experienced writer and author who holds a Ph.D. degree in public health from an Ivy League school. She has worked in the medical field for many years, conducting extensive research on various health topics. Her writing has been featured in several top-tier publications.

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• The four main types of essay | Quick guide with examples

The Four Main Types of Essay | Quick Guide with Examples

Published on September 4, 2020 by Jack Caulfield . Revised on July 23, 2023.

An essay is a focused piece of writing designed to inform or persuade. There are many different types of essay, but they are often defined in four categories: argumentative, expository, narrative, and descriptive essays.

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

In high school and college, you will also often have to write textual analysis essays, which test your skills in close reading and interpretation.

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Table of contents

Argumentative essays, expository essays, narrative essays, descriptive essays, textual analysis essays, other interesting articles, frequently asked questions about types of essays.

An argumentative essay presents an extended, evidence-based argument. It requires a strong thesis statement —a clearly defined stance on your topic. Your aim is to convince the reader of your thesis using evidence (such as quotations ) and analysis.

Argumentative essays test your ability to research and present your own position on a topic. This is the most common type of essay at college level—most papers you write will involve some kind of argumentation.

The essay is divided into an introduction, body, and conclusion:

• The introduction provides your topic and thesis statement
• The body presents your evidence and arguments
• The conclusion summarizes your argument and emphasizes its importance

The example below is a paragraph from the body of an argumentative essay about the effects of the internet on education. Mouse over it to learn more.

A common frustration for teachers is students’ use of Wikipedia as a source in their writing. Its prevalence among students is not exaggerated; a survey found that the vast majority of the students surveyed used Wikipedia (Head & Eisenberg, 2010). An article in The Guardian stresses a common objection to its use: “a reliance on Wikipedia can discourage students from engaging with genuine academic writing” (Coomer, 2013). Teachers are clearly not mistaken in viewing Wikipedia usage as ubiquitous among their students; but the claim that it discourages engagement with academic sources requires further investigation. This point is treated as self-evident by many teachers, but Wikipedia itself explicitly encourages students to look into other sources. Its articles often provide references to academic publications and include warning notes where citations are missing; the site’s own guidelines for research make clear that it should be used as a starting point, emphasizing that users should always “read the references and check whether they really do support what the article says” (“Wikipedia:Researching with Wikipedia,” 2020). Indeed, for many students, Wikipedia is their first encounter with the concepts of citation and referencing. The use of Wikipedia therefore has a positive side that merits deeper consideration than it often receives.

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An expository essay provides a clear, focused explanation of a topic. It doesn’t require an original argument, just a balanced and well-organized view of the topic.

Expository essays test your familiarity with a topic and your ability to organize and convey information. They are commonly assigned at high school or in exam questions at college level.

The introduction of an expository essay states your topic and provides some general background, the body presents the details, and the conclusion summarizes the information presented.

A typical body paragraph from an expository essay about the invention of the printing press is shown below. Mouse over it to learn more.

The invention of the printing press in 1440 changed this situation dramatically. Johannes Gutenberg, who had worked as a goldsmith, used his knowledge of metals in the design of the press. He made his type from an alloy of lead, tin, and antimony, whose durability allowed for the reliable production of high-quality books. This new technology allowed texts to be reproduced and disseminated on a much larger scale than was previously possible. The Gutenberg Bible appeared in the 1450s, and a large number of printing presses sprang up across the continent in the following decades. Gutenberg’s invention rapidly transformed cultural production in Europe; among other things, it would lead to the Protestant Reformation.

A narrative essay is one that tells a story. This is usually a story about a personal experience you had, but it may also be an imaginative exploration of something you have not experienced.

Narrative essays test your ability to build up a narrative in an engaging, well-structured way. They are much more personal and creative than other kinds of academic writing . Writing a personal statement for an application requires the same skills as a narrative essay.

A narrative essay isn’t strictly divided into introduction, body, and conclusion, but it should still begin by setting up the narrative and finish by expressing the point of the story—what you learned from your experience, or why it made an impression on you.

Mouse over the example below, a short narrative essay responding to the prompt “Write about an experience where you learned something about yourself,” to explore its structure.

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.

A descriptive essay provides a detailed sensory description of something. Like narrative essays, they allow you to be more creative than most academic writing, but they are more tightly focused than narrative essays. You might describe a specific place or object, rather than telling a whole story.

Descriptive essays test your ability to use language creatively, making striking word choices to convey a memorable picture of what you’re describing.

A descriptive essay can be quite loosely structured, though it should usually begin by introducing the object of your description and end by drawing an overall picture of it. The important thing is to use careful word choices and figurative language to create an original description of your object.

Mouse over the example below, a response to the prompt “Describe a place you love to spend time in,” to learn more about descriptive essays.

On Sunday afternoons I like to spend my time in the garden behind my house. The garden is narrow but long, a corridor of green extending from the back of the house, and I sit on a lawn chair at the far end to read and relax. I am in my small peaceful paradise: the shade of the tree, the feel of the grass on my feet, the gentle activity of the fish in the pond beside me.

My cat crosses the garden nimbly and leaps onto the fence to survey it from above. From his perch he can watch over his little kingdom and keep an eye on the neighbours. He does this until the barking of next door’s dog scares him from his post and he bolts for the cat flap to govern from the safety of the kitchen.

With that, I am left alone with the fish, whose whole world is the pond by my feet. The fish explore the pond every day as if for the first time, prodding and inspecting every stone. I sometimes feel the same about sitting here in the garden; I know the place better than anyone, but whenever I return I still feel compelled to pay attention to all its details and novelties—a new bird perched in the tree, the growth of the grass, and the movement of the insects it shelters…

Sitting out in the garden, I feel serene. I feel at home. And yet I always feel there is more to discover. The bounds of my garden may be small, but there is a whole world contained within it, and it is one I will never get tired of inhabiting.

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Though every essay type tests your writing skills, some essays also test your ability to read carefully and critically. In a textual analysis essay, you don’t just present information on a topic, but closely analyze a text to explain how it achieves certain effects.

Rhetorical analysis

A rhetorical analysis looks at a persuasive text (e.g. a speech, an essay, a political cartoon) in terms of the rhetorical devices it uses, and evaluates their effectiveness.

The goal is not to state whether you agree with the author’s argument but to look at how they have constructed it.

The introduction of a rhetorical analysis presents the text, some background information, and your thesis statement; the body comprises the analysis itself; and the conclusion wraps up your analysis of the text, emphasizing its relevance to broader concerns.

The example below is from a rhetorical analysis of Martin Luther King Jr.’s “I Have a Dream” speech . Mouse over it to learn more.

King’s speech is infused with prophetic language throughout. Even before the famous “dream” part of the speech, King’s language consistently strikes a prophetic tone. He refers to the Lincoln Memorial as a “hallowed spot” and speaks of rising “from the dark and desolate valley of segregation” to “make justice a reality for all of God’s children.” The assumption of this prophetic voice constitutes the text’s strongest ethical appeal; after linking himself with political figures like Lincoln and the Founding Fathers, King’s ethos adopts a distinctly religious tone, recalling Biblical prophets and preachers of change from across history. This adds significant force to his words; standing before an audience of hundreds of thousands, he states not just what the future should be, but what it will be: “The whirlwinds of revolt will continue to shake the foundations of our nation until the bright day of justice emerges.” This warning is almost apocalyptic in tone, though it concludes with the positive image of the “bright day of justice.” The power of King’s rhetoric thus stems not only from the pathos of his vision of a brighter future, but from the ethos of the prophetic voice he adopts in expressing this vision.

Literary analysis

A literary analysis essay presents a close reading of a work of literature—e.g. a poem or novel—to explore the choices made by the author and how they help to convey the text’s theme. It is not simply a book report or a review, but an in-depth interpretation of the text.

Literary analysis looks at things like setting, characters, themes, and figurative language. The goal is to closely analyze what the author conveys and how.

The introduction of a literary analysis essay presents the text and background, and provides your thesis statement; the body consists of close readings of the text with quotations and analysis in support of your argument; and the conclusion emphasizes what your approach tells us about the text.

Mouse over the example below, the introduction to a literary analysis essay on Frankenstein , to learn more.

Mary Shelley’s Frankenstein is often read as a crude cautionary tale about the dangers of scientific advancement unrestrained by ethical considerations. In this reading, protagonist Victor Frankenstein is a stable representation of the callous ambition of modern science throughout the novel. This essay, however, argues that far from providing a stable image of the character, Shelley uses shifting narrative perspectives to portray Frankenstein in an increasingly negative light as the novel goes on. While he initially appears to be a naive but sympathetic idealist, after the creature’s narrative Frankenstein begins to resemble—even in his own telling—the thoughtlessly cruel figure the creature represents him as. This essay begins by exploring the positive portrayal of Frankenstein in the first volume, then moves on to the creature’s perception of him, and finally discusses the third volume’s narrative shift toward viewing Frankenstein as the creature views him.

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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At high school and in composition classes at university, you’ll often be told to write a specific type of essay , but you might also just be given prompts.

Look for keywords in these prompts that suggest a certain approach: The word “explain” suggests you should write an expository essay , while the word “describe” implies a descriptive essay . An argumentative essay might be prompted with the word “assess” or “argue.”

The vast majority of essays written at university are some sort of argumentative essay . Almost all academic writing involves building up an argument, though other types of essay might be assigned in composition classes.

Essays can present arguments about all kinds of different topics. For example:

• In a literary analysis essay, you might make an argument for a specific interpretation of a text
• In a history essay, you might present an argument for the importance of a particular event
• In a politics essay, you might argue for the validity of a certain political theory

An argumentative essay tends to be a longer essay involving independent research, and aims to make an original argument about a topic. Its thesis statement makes a contentious claim that must be supported in an objective, evidence-based way.

An expository essay also aims to be objective, but it doesn’t have to make an original argument. Rather, it aims to explain something (e.g., a process or idea) in a clear, concise way. Expository essays are often shorter assignments and rely less on research.

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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