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Creating a clear and organized essay is not easy, but making an outline can help. By arranging your ideas in a logical and coherent way, an essay outline can guide you in effectively structuring your essay.

Whether you’re working on a school or college assignment, take the time to create an outline. It can help you overcome the challenges of organizing your thoughts while writing. In this article, we’ll take a look at how to create an essay outline with the help of some useful examples and a downloadable template.

What is an essay outline?

An outline acts as a blueprint for your essay, presenting the structure and content of each paragraph and showing how they connect. By creating an outline, you can streamline the writing process and minimize the need for revisions. It can also help you develop strong points to support your thesis statement .

Typically, an outline is created after establishing a working thesis statement and gathering relevant information. The collected information is then organized into a logical flow that can be expanded into a structured essay.

Why is it important to create an essay outline?

An essay outline not only gives structure to your essay but also helps effectively link its parts. It helps create a logical flow for your essay and also helps identify its primary components. Let’s take a look at this in detail.

1. Sets a logical order

To create a well-structured and impactful essay, the arrangement of information is key. Creating an essay outline makes it easier to organize bits of information from general to specific.

Start off by creating a broad thesis statement or central idea. Then move on to providing examples or pieces of information that support this statement or elaborate on it. This method also provides a comprehensive overview of your essay and helps identify any missing bits of information.

2. Generates greater impact

The primary goal of your essay is to effectively present information that supports your thesis statement. If your essay is haphazardly structured, the message of the thesis statement can get lost.

In order to present a coherent message, determine the important bits of information that best support your thesis statement and organize them logically. Then elaborate on these bits to create a flow. This not only creates a greater impact but also makes your final essay more convincing.

3. Leads to smoother transitions

Transitions are the bridges that connect your ideas and ensure that your argument flows smoothly. However, creating smooth transitions from one point to another can be quite challenging.

A college essay outline helps you identify where you need to include transitions and what type of transition you should use to connect your ideas effectively. Creating smooth, logical, and cohesive transitions is crucial in ensuring that readers can easily follow your train of thought and grasp your argument.

How to write an essay outline

After conducting all the necessary research, it is time to narrow down the central idea of your essay. Make sure that the scope of your idea is neither too broad nor too narrow.

Select the main bits of information that elaborate on this central idea and organize them in a logical manner. Then provide specific examples to back them up. Let’s take a detailed look at these steps.

1. Figure out the central message or the thesis statement of your essay.

Picking out a central idea or generic point for your essay can help create a base you can elaborate upon.

You can start with a broad idea or stance and then research the specific bits of information that support this idea and provide more information on it.

2. Identify the main points or arguments.

After collecting the necessary information to elaborate on your central idea, identify the broad points that give it substance.

These points will form the headings of the essay. They should be broad enough to cover major themes, but specific enough to provide a clear focus for each section.

3. Organize your headings.

Decide the logical flow of your essay and arrange your headings in an organized manner.

It is crucial to have obvious starting and ending points, but the body can be organized in a way you consider to be the most impactful. Depending on the type of essay, your headings can be arranged chronologically, on the basis of importance, or from general to specific.

4. Provide examples and evidence to support the headings.

Once the headings are created and organized, provide statistics, anecdotes, and examples to back them up. These specific pieces of information can be elaborated upon while writing your first draft.

You can use this general essay outline format to create your own

Essay outline template

To help you write a logical, well-structured, impactful essay, we have developed this fool-proof, comprehensive essay outline template. It will help you categorize all your essential information into well-structured, organized headings and subheadings.

The template includes an introduction, three body paragraphs, an optional paragraph for a counter-argument, and a conclusion. Under each of these headings, there are relevant subheadings that are applicable to all types of essays.

The template uses an alphanumeric format, with Roman numerals for the headings and capital letters for the subheadings.

Download Free Outline Essay Template

Essay outline examples .

Essays are highly versatile pieces of writing. They include various types, such as persuasive essays, compare and contrast essays, analytical essays, and cause-and-effect essays.

But most of these essay types are a combination or a derivation of these four main types of essays. They include narrative, descriptive, argumentative, and expository essays.

Each of these essays serves a different purpose and is structured differently. Let’s understand the purpose of each of these essay types with the help of relevant essay outline examples:

1. Narrative essay outline

A narrative essay outline is a highly personalized outline that reflects your unique experiences, feelings, and observations.

The goal of this outline is to tell an impactful story with the help of vivid descriptions and sensory details that engage the reader’s attention.

Narrative essay outline example

Let us better understand the narrative essay outline with the help of an example. The following example is a personal narrative about growing up as an immigrant child.

I. Introduction

A. A vivid description of the moment I found out I was moving to a new country.

B. Brief explanation of my background and reasons for immigrating.

C. Thesis statement: The challenges and opportunities I faced as an immigrant in a new country.

A. Struggles in adjusting to a new culture.

1. Language barriers I faced in school and everyday life.

2. Differences in cultural norms and expectations.

B. Navigating a new education system

1. Differences in teaching styles and expectations.

2. Adjusting to a new curriculum and grading system.

C. Finding a sense of belonging

1. Challenges in making friends and building relationships.

2. Coping with homesickness and missing family and friends.

III. Conclusion

A. Reflection on my journey as an immigrant

1. Lessons learned and personal growth.

2. Significance of the experience.

B. Acknowledgment of my resilience and determination.

1. Overcoming challenges and achieving success.

2. Encouragement for others facing similar challenges.

C. Memorable closing statement related to my journey.

2. Argumentative essay outline

An argumentative essay outline requires you to take a clear stance on a topic and provide strong evidence to support it.

The goal of this outline is to convince the reader to see your point of view on a controversial topic.

Argumentative essay outline example

The following example shows us how the internet is beneficial to the mental development of school children. It establishes the internet to be a valuable resource for children.

A. A surprising statistic or fact about children and their use of the internet.

B. Brief explanation of the prevalence of the internet in modern society and its impact on children.

C. Thesis statement: Despite concerns about safety and privacy, the internet is a valuable resource for children due to its educational opportunities, communication tools, and access to diverse perspectives.

A. Education opportunities.

1. Access to information and resources that may not be available in traditional classroom settings.

2. Interactive tools and games that can reinforce learning and engage children in new ways.

B. Communication tools

1. Social media and messaging platforms that allow children to connect with peers and mentors.

2. Online forums and discussion groups that foster collaboration and problem-solving skills.

C. Exposure to diverse perspectives

1. Access to a variety of viewpoints and perspectives from around the world.

2. Exposure to different cultures and ways of thinking can foster empathy and understanding.

III. Counterarguments and Rebuttal

A. Potential safety concerns and risks associated with internet use

1. Explanation of safety measures and precautions that can mitigate these risks.

2. Rebuttal of the idea that the risks outweigh the benefits.

B. Potential negative effects on cognitive and social development

1. Explanation of the positive effects of internet use on cognitive development and social skills.

2. Rebuttal of the idea that the internet is inherently harmful to children.

IV. Conclusion

A. Restatement of thesis statement and main points of the argument.

B. Reflection on the importance of the internet as a valuable resource for children.

C. Final thoughts and call to action for readers to embrace the benefits of internet use for children.

3. Expository essay outline

An expository essay outline requires you to provide a detailed overview of a subject from all angles. It is used to test your knowledge of a particular subject.

The purpose of this essay outline is to inform, explain, or describe a topic or idea, rather than to persuade the reader or share personal opinions.

This type of essay is often used in academic settings, such as in writing assignments, research papers, or even textbooks.

Expository essay outline example

The following example provides us with information on SONAR technology, its uses, its impact on the environment, as well as its benefits.

A. A brief explanation of the significance of SONAR and its impact on underwater navigation and detection.

B. A definition of SONAR and its origins, and the history of its development and uses.

C. Thesis statement: This essay will provide a detailed overview of the use of SONAR technology, its applications, and its impact on various fields.

A. Explanation of SONAR technology

Basic principles of SONAR.
Types of SONAR and how they work.

B. Applications of SONAR technology

1. Military applications, including submarine detection and mine detection.

2. Commercial applications, including underwater mapping and exploration, and marine life observation.

C. Advantages and disadvantages of SONAR technology

1. Advantages, such as accuracy and range.

2. Disadvantages, such as interference and environmental impact.

A. Safety and environmental concerns

1. Explanation of the measures taken to minimize the environmental impact of SONAR technology.

2. Rebuttal of the idea that the benefits of SONAR technology are outweighed by its environmental impact.

B. Potential misuse or abuse of SONAR technology

1. Explanation of regulations and laws governing the use of SONAR technology.

2. Rebuttal of the idea that the potential misuse of SONAR technology justifies limiting its applications.

B. Reflection on the significance of SONAR technology and its impact on various fields.

C. Final thoughts and call to action for readers to learn more about SONAR technology and its applications.

4. Descriptive essay outline

A descriptive essay outline requires you to create a detailed and sensory-rich description of a person, place, object, event, or experience.

The goal is to provide the reader with a visceral experience that engages their senses and imagination.

Descriptive essay outline example

The following example provides a highly immersive experience and uses multiple sensory descriptors to describe the summers spent by the writer at their grandmother’s farm.

A. Description of a typical summer day at grandma’s farm.

B. Brief overview of the location and purpose of the farm.

C. Thesis statement: Summers spent at grandma’s farm were some of the most memorable and enjoyable times of my childhood, thanks to the idyllic setting and the rich sensory experiences it provided.

II. Body Paragraph 1: The Scenery

A. Topic sentence: The farm was located in a picturesque rural area surrounded by rolling hills and green pastures.

B. Sensory details:

1. Visual: Describe the lush greenery, the colorful flowers, and the endless expanse of blue sky.

2. Auditory: Mention the sound of the chirping birds, the rustling leaves, and the occasional mooing of cows.

3. Olfactory: Describe the fragrant smell of fresh hay and the earthy aroma of the soil.

4. Tactile: Describe the feeling of the warm sun on the skin and the softness of the grass underfoot.

III. Body Paragraph 2: The Activities

A. Topic sentence: The farm provided numerous activities and tasks that kept me busy and engaged throughout the day.

1. Visual: Describe the sight of the cows grazing, the chickens clucking, and the horses trotting.

2. Auditory: Mention the sound of the milking machine, the creaking of the barn doors, and the whinnying of the horses.

3. Olfactory: Describe the smell of the freshly baked pies, the wood smoke from the bonfire, and the scent of the freshly cut grass.

4. Tactile: Describe the feeling of the cow’s rough tongue licking my hand, the warmth of the freshly laid eggs, and the rough texture of the hay bales.

IV. Body Paragraph 3: The People

A. Topic sentence: The farm was a family affair, and spending time with my grandmother and other relatives was a highlight of the summer.

1. Visual: Describe the sight of my grandmother cooking in the kitchen, my cousins running through the fields, and my uncles fixing machinery.

2. Auditory: Mention the sound of laughter and conversation around the dinner table, the chatter of family members working together, and the clinking of dishes.

3. Olfactory: Describe the smell of home-cooked meals, the familiar scents of family members, and the aroma of freshly brewed coffee.

4. Tactile: Describe the feeling of hugs from family members, the rough texture of my grandfather’s hand, and the warmth of a family embrace.

V. Conclusion

A. Restate thesis: Summers spent at grandma’s farm were truly unforgettable, filled with vivid sensory experiences and cherished memories.

B. Summarize main points: Recap the main sensory details and experiences shared in the essay.

C. Final thoughts: Reflect on the impact of the farm on the writer’s life and express gratitude for the memories made there.

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What is an essay outline?

Why is it important to create an essay outline?

1. Sets a logical order

To create a well-structured and impactful essay, the arrangement of information is key. Creating an essay outline makes it easier to organize bits of information from general to specific.

2. Generates greater impact

The primary goal of your essay is to effectively present information that supports your thesis statement. If your essay is haphazardly structured, the message of the thesis statement can get lost.

3. Leads to smoother transitions

Transitions are the bridges that connect your ideas and ensure that your argument flows smoothly. However, creating smooth transitions from one point to another can be quite challenging.

How to write an essay outline

After conducting all the necessary research, it is time to narrow down the central idea of your essay. Make sure that the scope of your idea is neither too broad nor too narrow.

1. Figure out the central message or the thesis statement of your essay.

Picking out a central idea or generic point for your essay can help create a base you can elaborate upon.

You can start with a broad idea or stance and then research the specific bits of information that support this idea and provide more information on it.

2. Identify the main points or arguments.

After collecting the necessary information to elaborate on your central idea, identify the broad points that give it substance.

These points will form the headings of the essay. They should be broad enough to cover major themes, but specific enough to provide a clear focus for each section.

3. Organize your headings.

Decide the logical flow of your essay and arrange your headings in an organized manner.

4. Provide examples and evidence to support the headings.

Once the headings are created and organized, provide statistics, anecdotes, and examples to back them up. These specific pieces of information can be elaborated upon while writing your first draft.

You can use this general essay outline format to create your own

Essay outline template

The template uses an alphanumeric format, with Roman numerals for the headings and capital letters for the subheadings.

Download Free Outline Essay Template

Essay outline examples .

Essays are highly versatile pieces of writing. They include various types, such as persuasive essays, compare and contrast essays, analytical essays, and cause-and-effect essays.

But most of these essay types are a combination or a derivation of these four main types of essays. They include narrative, descriptive, argumentative, and expository essays.

Each of these essays serves a different purpose and is structured differently. Let’s understand the purpose of each of these essay types with the help of relevant essay outline examples:

1. Narrative essay outline

A narrative essay outline is a highly personalized outline that reflects your unique experiences, feelings, and observations.

The goal of this outline is to tell an impactful story with the help of vivid descriptions and sensory details that engage the reader’s attention.

Narrative essay outline example

Let us better understand the narrative essay outline with the help of an example. The following example is a personal narrative about growing up as an immigrant child.

I. Introduction

A. A vivid description of the moment I found out I was moving to a new country.

B. Brief explanation of my background and reasons for immigrating.

C. Thesis statement: The challenges and opportunities I faced as an immigrant in a new country.

A. Struggles in adjusting to a new culture.

1. Language barriers I faced in school and everyday life.

2. Differences in cultural norms and expectations.

B. Navigating a new education system

1. Differences in teaching styles and expectations.

2. Adjusting to a new curriculum and grading system.

C. Finding a sense of belonging

1. Challenges in making friends and building relationships.

2. Coping with homesickness and missing family and friends.

III. Conclusion

A. Reflection on my journey as an immigrant

1. Lessons learned and personal growth.

2. Significance of the experience.

B. Acknowledgment of my resilience and determination.

1. Overcoming challenges and achieving success.

2. Encouragement for others facing similar challenges.

C. Memorable closing statement related to my journey.

2. Argumentative essay outline

An argumentative essay outline requires you to take a clear stance on a topic and provide strong evidence to support it.

The goal of this outline is to convince the reader to see your point of view on a controversial topic.

Argumentative essay outline example

The following example shows us how the internet is beneficial to the mental development of school children. It establishes the internet to be a valuable resource for children.

A. A surprising statistic or fact about children and their use of the internet.

B. Brief explanation of the prevalence of the internet in modern society and its impact on children.

A. Education opportunities.

1. Access to information and resources that may not be available in traditional classroom settings.

2. Interactive tools and games that can reinforce learning and engage children in new ways.

B. Communication tools

1. Social media and messaging platforms that allow children to connect with peers and mentors.

2. Online forums and discussion groups that foster collaboration and problem-solving skills.

C. Exposure to diverse perspectives

1. Access to a variety of viewpoints and perspectives from around the world.

2. Exposure to different cultures and ways of thinking can foster empathy and understanding.

III. Counterarguments and Rebuttal

A. Potential safety concerns and risks associated with internet use

1. Explanation of safety measures and precautions that can mitigate these risks.

2. Rebuttal of the idea that the risks outweigh the benefits.

B. Potential negative effects on cognitive and social development

1. Explanation of the positive effects of internet use on cognitive development and social skills.

2. Rebuttal of the idea that the internet is inherently harmful to children.

IV. Conclusion

A. Restatement of thesis statement and main points of the argument.

B. Reflection on the importance of the internet as a valuable resource for children.

C. Final thoughts and call to action for readers to embrace the benefits of internet use for children.

3. Expository essay outline

An expository essay outline requires you to provide a detailed overview of a subject from all angles. It is used to test your knowledge of a particular subject.

The purpose of this essay outline is to inform, explain, or describe a topic or idea, rather than to persuade the reader or share personal opinions.

This type of essay is often used in academic settings, such as in writing assignments, research papers, or even textbooks.

Expository essay outline example

The following example provides us with information on SONAR technology, its uses, its impact on the environment, as well as its benefits.

A. A brief explanation of the significance of SONAR and its impact on underwater navigation and detection.

B. A definition of SONAR and its origins, and the history of its development and uses.

C. Thesis statement: This essay will provide a detailed overview of the use of SONAR technology, its applications, and its impact on various fields.

A. Explanation of SONAR technology

Basic principles of SONAR.
Types of SONAR and how they work.

B. Applications of SONAR technology

1. Military applications, including submarine detection and mine detection.

2. Commercial applications, including underwater mapping and exploration, and marine life observation.

C. Advantages and disadvantages of SONAR technology

1. Advantages, such as accuracy and range.

2. Disadvantages, such as interference and environmental impact.

A. Safety and environmental concerns

1. Explanation of the measures taken to minimize the environmental impact of SONAR technology.

2. Rebuttal of the idea that the benefits of SONAR technology are outweighed by its environmental impact.

B. Potential misuse or abuse of SONAR technology

1. Explanation of regulations and laws governing the use of SONAR technology.

2. Rebuttal of the idea that the potential misuse of SONAR technology justifies limiting its applications.

B. Reflection on the significance of SONAR technology and its impact on various fields.

C. Final thoughts and call to action for readers to learn more about SONAR technology and its applications.

4. Descriptive essay outline

A descriptive essay outline requires you to create a detailed and sensory-rich description of a person, place, object, event, or experience.

The goal is to provide the reader with a visceral experience that engages their senses and imagination.

Descriptive essay outline example

The following example provides a highly immersive experience and uses multiple sensory descriptors to describe the summers spent by the writer at their grandmother’s farm.

A. Description of a typical summer day at grandma’s farm.

B. Brief overview of the location and purpose of the farm.

C. Thesis statement: Summers spent at grandma’s farm were some of the most memorable and enjoyable times of my childhood, thanks to the idyllic setting and the rich sensory experiences it provided.

II. Body Paragraph 1: The Scenery

A. Topic sentence: The farm was located in a picturesque rural area surrounded by rolling hills and green pastures.

B. Sensory details:

1. Visual: Describe the lush greenery, the colorful flowers, and the endless expanse of blue sky.

2. Auditory: Mention the sound of the chirping birds, the rustling leaves, and the occasional mooing of cows.

3. Olfactory: Describe the fragrant smell of fresh hay and the earthy aroma of the soil.

4. Tactile: Describe the feeling of the warm sun on the skin and the softness of the grass underfoot.

III. Body Paragraph 2: The Activities

A. Topic sentence: The farm provided numerous activities and tasks that kept me busy and engaged throughout the day.

1. Visual: Describe the sight of the cows grazing, the chickens clucking, and the horses trotting.

2. Auditory: Mention the sound of the milking machine, the creaking of the barn doors, and the whinnying of the horses.

3. Olfactory: Describe the smell of the freshly baked pies, the wood smoke from the bonfire, and the scent of the freshly cut grass.

4. Tactile: Describe the feeling of the cow’s rough tongue licking my hand, the warmth of the freshly laid eggs, and the rough texture of the hay bales.

IV. Body Paragraph 3: The People

A. Topic sentence: The farm was a family affair, and spending time with my grandmother and other relatives was a highlight of the summer.

1. Visual: Describe the sight of my grandmother cooking in the kitchen, my cousins running through the fields, and my uncles fixing machinery.

2. Auditory: Mention the sound of laughter and conversation around the dinner table, the chatter of family members working together, and the clinking of dishes.

3. Olfactory: Describe the smell of home-cooked meals, the familiar scents of family members, and the aroma of freshly brewed coffee.

4. Tactile: Describe the feeling of hugs from family members, the rough texture of my grandfather’s hand, and the warmth of a family embrace.

V. Conclusion

A. Restate thesis: Summers spent at grandma’s farm were truly unforgettable, filled with vivid sensory experiences and cherished memories.

B. Summarize main points: Recap the main sensory details and experiences shared in the essay.

C. Final thoughts: Reflect on the impact of the farm on the writer’s life and express gratitude for the memories made there.

Once you’re done writing your essay, it’s time to thoroughly revise, edit, and proofread your essay. If editing and proofreading is not your cup of tea, you can make things easier for you by working with a professional essay editing service .

Here are some related articles that you might find interesting:

How to Write an Essay in 8 Simple Steps

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While Sandel argues that pursuing perfection through genetic engineering would decrease our sense of humility, he claims that the sense of solidarity we would lose is also important.

This thesis summarizes several points in Sandel’s argument, but it does not make a claim about how we should understand his argument. A reader who read Sandel’s argument would not also need to read an essay based on this descriptive thesis.

Broad thesis (arguable, but difficult to support with evidence)

Michael Sandel’s arguments about genetic engineering do not take into consideration all the relevant issues.

This is an arguable claim because it would be possible to argue against it by saying that Michael Sandel’s arguments do take all of the relevant issues into consideration. But the claim is too broad. Because the thesis does not specify which “issues” it is focused on—or why it matters if they are considered—readers won’t know what the rest of the essay will argue, and the writer won’t know what to focus on. If there is a particular issue that Sandel does not address, then a more specific version of the thesis would include that issue—hand an explanation of why it is important.

Arguable thesis with analytical claim

While Sandel argues persuasively that our instinct to “remake” (54) ourselves into something ever more perfect is a problem, his belief that we can always draw a line between what is medically necessary and what makes us simply “better than well” (51) is less convincing.

This is an arguable analytical claim. To argue for this claim, the essay writer will need to show how evidence from the article itself points to this interpretation. It’s also a reasonable scope for a thesis because it can be supported with evidence available in the text and is neither too broad nor too narrow.

Arguable thesis with normative claim

Given Sandel’s argument against genetic enhancement, we should not allow parents to decide on using Human Growth Hormone for their children.

This thesis tells us what we should do about a particular issue discussed in Sandel’s article, but it does not tell us how we should understand Sandel’s argument.

Questions to ask about your thesis

Is the thesis truly arguable? Does it speak to a genuine dilemma in the source, or would most readers automatically agree with it?
Is the thesis too obvious? Again, would most or all readers agree with it without needing to see your argument?
Is the thesis complex enough to require a whole essay's worth of argument?
Is the thesis supportable with evidence from the text rather than with generalizations or outside research?
Would anyone want to read a paper in which this thesis was developed? That is, can you explain what this paper is adding to our understanding of a problem, question, or topic?
picture_as_pdf Thesis

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How to Write a Personal Essay for Your College Application

What does it take to land in the “accept” (instead of “reject”) pile?

How can you write an essay that helps advance you in the eyes of the admissions officers and makes a real impression? Here are some tips to get you started.

Start early. Do not leave it until the last minute. Give yourself time when you don’t have other homework or extracurriculars hanging over your head to work on the essay.
Keep the focus narrow. Your essay does not have to cover a massive, earth-shattering event. Some people in their teens haven’t experienced a major life event. Some people have. Either way, it’s okay.
Be yourself. Whether writing about a painful experience or a more simple experience, use the narrative to be vulnerable and honest about who you are. Use words you would normally use. Trust your voice and the fact that your story is interesting enough in that no one else has lived it.
Be creative. “Show, don’t tell,” and that applies here — to an extent. The best essays typically do both. You can help your reader see and feel what you are describing by using some figurative language throughout your piece.
Make a point. As you finish your final body paragraphs ask yourself “So what?” This will help you hone in on how to end your essay in a way that elevates it into a story about an insight or discovery you made about yourself, rather than just being about an experience you had.

We’ve all heard about the dreaded “college essay,” the bane of every high school senior’s existence. This daunting element of the college application is something that can create angst for even the most accomplished students.

AA Amy Allen is a writer, educator, and lifelong learner. Her freelance writing business, All of the Write Words , focuses on providing high school students with one-on-one feedback to guide them through the college application process and with crafting a thoughtful personal essay. A dedicated poet, Amy’s work has also been published in several journals including Pine Row Press , Months to Years, and Atlanta Review .

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How to Write a Personal Essay: Best Tips and Easy Guide

How to Write a Personal Essay: Overview

If you're a student or someone who writes professionally, chances are you've encountered the task of composing a personal essay. Personal essays stand apart from other types of academic writing because they provide an opportunity for writers to unveil their unique personalities, recount their personal experiences, and express their deepest emotions. Crafting such college essays can pose challenges, yet it can also yield profound rewards by fostering self-discovery and forging connections with readers. In this article, we will guide you on how to write a personal essay step by step.

Defining What is a Personal Essay

Also referred to as a personal statement, a personal essay allows the writer to express their thoughts and experiences on a particular topic. It is a form of creative nonfiction writing that reveals the writer's personality, beliefs, values, and emotions. They are often used in college applications to give the admissions officers a glimpse into the applicant's life experiences and personality. They can also be used as a tool for self-reflection and personal growth.

One of the unique aspects of a personal essay is that it is written in the first person. This allows the writer to connect with the reader on a personal level and create a sense of intimacy. The writer can use their own voice and style to convey their message, making the essay more engaging and relatable.

Personal essays can take many different forms, such as a memoir, personal narrative essay, or personal reflection. They can be humorous, serious, or a combination of both. No matter if you want to learn how to write a personal narrative essay for high school or upper education, the key is to be authentic and honest in your writing, as this will make the essay more compelling.

When writing personal essays, it is important to have a clear focus and purpose. What message do you want to convey to your reader? What do you want them to take away from your essay? By answering these questions, you can create a great college essay with a lasting impact on readers.

Importance and Benefits of Personal Essay Writing

Personal essay writing is a powerful tool that can provide several benefits to the writer. The process of writing about your personal story and emotions can lead to growth and self-awareness. Here are some of the key benefits of personal essay writing:

Understanding Your Experiences and Emotions

Personal essay writing allows you to reflect on your experiences and emotions in a meaningful way. By putting your thoughts and feelings down on paper, you can gain a deeper understanding of yourself and your life experiences. This can help you to process difficult emotions, work through challenging situations, and gain a new perspective on your life.

Improving Your Writing Skills

Personal essay writing is also an excellent way to improve your writing skills. As you write more personal essays, you will develop your own unique style and voice. You will learn how to structure your writing, use language effectively, and connect with your audience. These skills will not only help you in your personal writing, but they will also be valuable in your professional life.

Finding Emotional Release

Personal essay writing can also be therapeutic. By writing about your experiences and emotions, you can release pent-up feelings and find a sense of closure. This can be especially helpful if you have experienced trauma or difficult life events. Writing can provide a safe and private space to process your emotions and work through challenging situations.

Connecting with Your Audience

Finally, personal essay writing can help you connect with your audience. By sharing your personal experiences and emotions, you can build a relationship with your readers based on shared experiences and emotions. This can be a powerful way to connect with others, build empathy, and create a sense of community.

How to Write a Personal Essay: 9 Things to Consider

Personal essays are a great way to share your experiences, thoughts, and beliefs with others. They allow you to connect with your readers on a personal level and convey a message that is unique to you. Here are 9 main things from our personal essay writer to consider while writing.

Choose a Topic

The first step in writing a personal essay is to choose the best one out of several personal essay topics that you are most passionate about. It should be a topic that reflects your experiences and resonates with your readers. Consider significant life events, childhood memories, personal beliefs, or observations that you have made. Choose a topic that you can write about in detail, and that will keep your readers engaged.

Make an Outline for Personal Essay

When curious about how to start a personal essay, create an outline for personal essay first. This will help you organize your thoughts and ideas in a logical sequence. Your outline should include an introduction, body paragraphs, and a conclusion.

In the introduction, you should hook the reader with an engaging opening sentence, provide background information, and a thesis statement.
In the body paragraphs, you should provide details about your personal experiences and reflect on them.
Lastly, in conclusion, you should summarize your key points and leave a lasting impression on the reader.

Develop a Compelling Introduction

The introductory paragraph is the most crucial part of your personal essay. It is where you hook the reader's attention and provide context for your essay. A compelling introduction should be concise, engaging, and relevant to your topic.

Start with a startling fact, a rhetorical question, or a personal anecdote to grab the reader's attention.
Then, provide background information to inform the reader about your topic.
Finally, end your introduction with a thesis statement that encapsulates the central theme of your entire essay.

Share Personal Experiences

The body paragraphs of your essay should be dedicated to sharing your personal experiences and reflecting on them. Use vivid details and sensory descriptions to paint a picture for your reader. Be honest and authentic in your writing, and do not be afraid to reveal your emotions. Use literary devices such as metaphors, similes, and personification to make your writing more engaging. The body paragraphs should be well organized, with each paragraph focusing on a particular aspect of your personal experience.

Structure the Body Paragraphs

The body paragraphs of your personal essay should be structured with a clear topic sentence, supporting details, and a concluding sentence. Each paragraph should be connected to the central thesis statement and flow smoothly into the next paragraph. Use transitions to connect one paragraph to the other, and make your essay easy to read.

Reflect and Analyze

Personal essays require reflection and analysis. After sharing your personal experiences, analyze them and reflect on what you have learned. Think about how your experiences have impacted your life and your outlook on the world. Analyze the lessons you have learned and how they relate to your thesis statement. This reflection and analysis will give your essay depth and help your readers connect with you on a personal level.

Maintain Authenticity and Honesty

When wondering about how to write a good personal essay, remember that it requires honesty and authenticity. Do not try to hide your flaws or weaknesses, but rather, embrace them. Be honest about your experiences and emotions, even if they are uncomfortable. Your honesty will resonate with your readers and make your essay more relatable. Also, avoid using a fake voice or imitating other writers, as it will come across as insincere. Your personal essay should be a reflection of who you are and what you believe.

Write a Memorable Conclusion

When it comes to writing a memorable conclusion for a personal essay, there are several tips that can elevate your piece and leave a lasting impact on readers.

Revisit the central theme or message of your essay
Summarize the key points and experiences you have shared
Incorporate a personal reflection or anecdote to create an emotional connection
End with a thought-provoking question or a call to action
Provide a sense of closure by showcasing personal growth or resolution
Customize the conclusion to align with the overall tone and style of your essay

Edit and Revise

Editing and revising your final personal essay is a vital step in the writing process that ensures your piece is polished, cohesive, and impactful.

Start by reviewing the overall format of personal essay, checking for a logical flow of ideas and a well-developed introduction and conclusion.
Consider the clarity and effectiveness of your language, eliminating any unnecessary or repetitive phrases.
Pay close attention to grammar, spelling, and punctuation errors, as they can distract readers from your message.
As you read through your essay, assess the strength of your arguments, examples, and supporting evidence, making revisions where needed to strengthen your overall argument.
Take time to refine your choice of words and sentence structure, aiming for clarity and precision.
Finally, seek feedback from trusted individuals, such as teachers or peers, who can provide valuable insights and suggestions for improvement.

4 Extra Tips on How to Write a Good Personal Essay

While we've already provided you with a step-by-step guide on writing a personal essay for college, we believe that a few extra tips can take your writing from good to exceptional. So, explore some extra tips and tricks on how to write a personal narrative essay that will help you unleash the full potential of your storytelling abilities.

Embrace vulnerability : Personal statements have the power to resonate deeply with readers when they offer genuine vulnerability. Don't be afraid to share your fears, struggles, or insecurities. By revealing your authentic self, you create a connection with readers and invite them to empathize with your experiences.
Utilize vivid sensory details : To bring your personal essay to life, incorporate vivid sensory details. Engage your readers' senses by describing the sights, sounds, smells, tastes, and textures of the moments you're recounting. This not only adds depth and richness to your writing but also helps readers immerse themselves in your narrative.
Experiment with structure : Personal essays don't necessarily have to follow a traditional linear structure. Feel free to experiment with different structures, such as flashbacks, circular narratives, or non-chronological storytelling. Playing with structure can add intrigue and make your essay stand out, allowing you to present your experiences in a unique and captivating way.
Reflect on broader implications : While many personal essays are centered around your experiences, it's valuable to reflect on the broader implications and universal lessons they offer. Consider the insights and lessons you've gained from your personal journey and explore how they connect to larger themes or issues. By making these connections, you can create a personal essay that resonates on a deeper level and offers thought-provoking insights to your readers.

Personal Essay Examples

Personal essay examples have a special power to grab readers' attention and take them into the personal world of the writer. In order to best learn how to write a personal essay for college, we will look at a practical example that highlights the genuine honesty, deep thinking, and inner strength that make this type of writing so remarkable.

Unveiling My Silent Strength

In a world filled with noise, finding my voice was a journey of self-discovery and courage. Growing up, I was always the quiet one, preferring to blend into the background rather than stand out. It wasn't that I lacked opinions or thoughts; rather, I lacked the confidence to express them. But as I embarked on the path of self-reflection, I realized that my silence was hindering my personal growth.

It was during my freshman year of college that I decided to challenge myself. I joined a public speaking club, where I was exposed to a supportive community of individuals eager to improve their communication skills. Week after week, I stood before the group, trembling at first but gradually finding my footing. I learned the power of eye contact, gestures and the importance of vocal projection. The more I practiced, the more my confidence grew.

Beyond the club, I sought opportunities to raise my voice in other areas of my life. I engaged in class discussions, voicing my perspectives and challenging ideas. I started writing articles for the college newspaper, sharing my thoughts on various topics. With each step, I discovered that my voice carried weight and that my words mattered.

Finding my voice extended beyond the realm of public speaking. It became a metaphor for asserting my identity and speaking up for what I believed in. I realized that my silence had held me back from connecting with others and making a difference in the world. Through finding my voice, I found empowerment and the courage to advocate for causes that mattered to me.

Now, as I reflect on my journey, I am proud of the person I have become. While I still appreciate moments of solitude, I no longer fear raising my voice. I embrace the power of my words and the impact they can have. Finding my voice has not only transformed my self-perception but has also allowed me to forge deeper connections, inspire change, and navigate the world with a newfound sense of purpose.

In this guide, we have explored what is a personal essay along with the art of writing compelling personal narrative essay examples, uncovering valuable tips to guide you along the way. From selecting a meaningful topic to crafting an engaging piece, you have learned the importance of weaving personal experiences and emotions into our narratives.

In the meantime, you can always use our expert writing help whether you need assistance with brainstorming ideas for a personal essay, structuring your work, refining your writing style, or creating an entire paper from scratch!

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Dissertation & Thesis Outline | Example & Free Templates

Dissertation & Thesis Outline | Example & Free Templates

Published on June 7, 2022 by Tegan George . Revised on November 21, 2023.

A thesis or dissertation outline is one of the most critical early steps in your writing process . It helps you to lay out and organize your ideas and can provide you with a roadmap for deciding the specifics of your dissertation topic and showcasing its relevance to your field.

Generally, an outline contains information on the different sections included in your thesis or dissertation , such as:

Your anticipated title
Your abstract
Your chapters (sometimes subdivided into further topics like literature review, research methods, avenues for future research, etc.)

In the final product, you can also provide a chapter outline for your readers. This is a short paragraph at the end of your introduction to inform readers about the organizational structure of your thesis or dissertation. This chapter outline is also known as a reading guide or summary outline.

How to outline your thesis or dissertation, dissertation and thesis outline templates, chapter outline example, sample sentences for your chapter outline, sample verbs for variation in your chapter outline, other interesting articles, frequently asked questions about thesis and dissertation outlines.

While there are some inter-institutional differences, many outlines proceed in a fairly similar fashion.

Working Title
“Elevator pitch” of your work (often written last).
Introduce your area of study, sharing details about your research question, problem statement , and hypotheses . Situate your research within an existing paradigm or conceptual or theoretical framework .
Subdivide as you see fit into main topics and sub-topics.
Describe your research methods (e.g., your scope , population , and data collection ).
Present your research findings and share about your data analysis methods.
Answer the research question in a concise way.
Interpret your findings, discuss potential limitations of your own research and speculate about future implications or related opportunities.

For a more detailed overview of chapters and other elements, be sure to check out our article on the structure of a dissertation or download our template .

To help you get started, we’ve created a full thesis or dissertation template in Word or Google Docs format. It’s easy adapt it to your own requirements.

Download Word template Download Google Docs template

Chapter outline example American English

It can be easy to fall into a pattern of overusing the same words or sentence constructions, which can make your work monotonous and repetitive for your readers. Consider utilizing some of the alternative constructions presented below.

Example 1: Passive construction

The passive voice is a common choice for outlines and overviews because the context makes it clear who is carrying out the action (e.g., you are conducting the research ). However, overuse of the passive voice can make your text vague and imprecise.

Example 2: IS-AV construction

You can also present your information using the “IS-AV” (inanimate subject with an active verb ) construction.

A chapter is an inanimate object, so it is not capable of taking an action itself (e.g., presenting or discussing). However, the meaning of the sentence is still easily understandable, so the IS-AV construction can be a good way to add variety to your text.

Example 3: The “I” construction

Another option is to use the “I” construction, which is often recommended by style manuals (e.g., APA Style and Chicago style ). However, depending on your field of study, this construction is not always considered professional or academic. Ask your supervisor if you’re not sure.

Example 4: Mix-and-match

To truly make the most of these options, consider mixing and matching the passive voice , IS-AV construction , and “I” construction .This can help the flow of your argument and improve the readability of your text.

As you draft the chapter outline, you may also find yourself frequently repeating the same words, such as “discuss,” “present,” “prove,” or “show.” Consider branching out to add richness and nuance to your writing. Here are some examples of synonyms you can use.

Address	Describe	Imply	Refute
Argue	Determine	Indicate	Report
Claim	Emphasize	Mention	Reveal
Clarify	Examine	Point out	Speculate
Compare	Explain	Posit	Summarize
Concern	Formulate	Present	Target
Counter	Focus on	Propose	Treat
Define	Give	Provide insight into	Underpin
Demonstrate	Highlight	Recommend	Use

If you want to know more about AI for academic writing, AI tools, or research bias, make sure to check out some of our other articles with explanations and examples or go directly to our tools!

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When you mention different chapters within your text, it’s considered best to use Roman numerals for most citation styles. However, the most important thing here is to remain consistent whenever using numbers in your dissertation .

The title page of your thesis or dissertation goes first, before all other content or lists that you may choose to include.

A thesis or dissertation outline is one of the most critical first steps in your writing process. It helps you to lay out and organize your ideas and can provide you with a roadmap for deciding what kind of research you’d like to undertake.

Your chapters (sometimes subdivided into further topics like literature review , research methods , avenues for future research, etc.)

Cite this Scribbr article

If you want to cite this source, you can copy and paste the citation or click the “Cite this Scribbr article” button to automatically add the citation to our free Citation Generator.

George, T. (2023, November 21). Dissertation & Thesis Outline | Example & Free Templates. Scribbr. Retrieved August 6, 2024, from https://www.scribbr.com/dissertation/dissertation-thesis-outline/

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Home ➔ Essay Outline

How to Write an Essay Outline (Examples and Template)

Essays are used to express ideas or opinions about a particular subject matter. It’s among the first tasks introduced to students at the primary levels of education. It’s also one of the widely accepted forms of assessing students that cut across most academic disciplines, especially in college. Schools and even places of employment might also require an essay from an applicant before considering them.

The silver lining is that many students have a working knowledge of how to write an essay and its structure composition, which usually includes an introduction, body, and a concluding paragraph. Still, the average student spends more than the necessary number of hours on a single task because they run out of ideas or lose their train of thought. Even the overall content of the paper suffers. That can be avoided by penning down a solid outline before writing the first draft. Did you know even seasoned bestseller writers do this? So, what’s an outline? How does it improve your essays, and how do you write it? We are answering all these questions in our guide.

Essay Outline Format and Definition

An essay outline acts like a map or blueprint, guiding writers in organizing their work. It’s similar to a table of contents in research papers and dissertations. Many students actually make outlines without realizing it, which is why learning to write one is straightforward. Typically, students brainstorm and research ideas before starting to write. However, they often don’t organize these ideas properly. This step is crucial to transform their initial thoughts into a structured essay outline.

If writing an effective outline isn’t a task that you must submit for a grade, then it’s up to you how you format it. However, you should follow four main principles when creating a plan for your academic writing:

Ranking — as you go from your main headings to subheadings, you move from general to more specific.
Parallelism — every heading on the same hierarchy level should start with the same word type (verb, adjective, noun, etc.).
Parity — all headings of the same hierarchy should be equally important and less important than the ones higher in rank.
Fragmentation — each main heading should be divided into at least two subheadings.

The image below illustrates all four principles of outlining:

four essay outlining principles with an example

The most common format is a standard alphanumeric outline template. Headlines are labeled in the following order (from the first to the most nested one):

(a) Lowercase letters in round brackets

For what you write in each point, you can use brief phrases or full sentences to summarize the idea.

The decimal outline structure is another format you can apply, and it looks like this:

When organizing an essay, there are two primary types of outlines: topic outlines and sentence outlines .

A topic outline lists your essay’s main points and subpoints in short phrases or single words. As a result, it provides a clear, concise structure and helps you visualize the flow of the essay without getting into detailed sentences. This type of outline is mainly useful for shorter essays or when you have a strong comprehension of the subject and do not need to go into every point during this initial planning stage.

In contrast, a sentence outline has complete sentences for each main point and subpoint. This outlining approach offers a more detailed framework, allowing you to flesh out your ideas and ensure that each part of the essay is developed well. Sentence outlines are good for longer or more complex papers, where you need to clarify your thoughts and arguments in advance. By using full sentences, this outline type helps identify any gaps in logic or areas that need further analysis, making the actual writing process smoother and more efficient in the end.

Why is Outlining Important?

Reasons vary, but we usually use it to logically order all the data you collected during the brainstorming and researching stages. A good outline helps a lot in writing research papers, as you can easily keep track of all the relevant information. Even for oral presentations, it’s a great way to identify the strengths and weaknesses of their speech and make it more effective. To sum up, an outline’s core functions are:

Guiding you during the writing phrase
Helping you organize your thoughts and ideas
Presenting material in a logical order
Showing how your ideas link to one another
Serving as an abstract for your paper

Outlines enhance thinking flow

Consider planning every next day before going to bed. You will realize that you undertake your daily activities without overthinking or second-guessing yourself because you know what to do every time. That is one of the proven life principles for most successful people. The same applies to paper writing. Your essays will feel like a walk in the park if you outline every major point beforehand.

Outlines save time

Time is a commodity that none of us have in abundance, especially considering the responsibilities students have to undertake daily. So why spend hours on essays when you have mounting academic work? You’d rather waste less time and still get good grades. That’s what essay outlines are for: saving time and improving your performance. Once you’ve planned out your essay, it takes less time to develop each idea.

Outlines improve grades

From students’ perspective, the whole point of sweating over an essay is to get the best grades, and an outline can help you do that. If you take time to brainstorm and jot down every major point you can raise in your essay, you will make fewer errors. If you arrange your ideas in an order that makes sense, your tutor will notice it and evaluate the paper accordingly.

How to Outline an Essay

Building an outline is an excellent way to ensure that every paragraph in your essay has a purpose. While outlining, you can see if a paragraph is essential or can be dropped without harm to your paper. It also checks how your argument or main idea is advancing, which will help you speed up the proofreading stage. Now that you learned how significant outlining is, let’s see how you can create one.

Before writing an outline, you should:

Define the goal of your essay.
Determine the target audience.
Create the thesis statement.

Step 1: Research

The quality of your research determines the quality of your outline and your essay at large. That includes finding quotes from reputable sources or indicating the main supporting points to bolster your argument. Depending on your educational background, you might have to use different sources to expedite your research.

Any websites found on Google are unsuitable sources for papers written at a college or university level. Since the Internet is full of unverified information, it’s vital to ascertain your source’s credibility before referring to it. Examples of trusted sites include Google Scholar, Microsoft Academic, Science.gov, Refseek, and Oxford Academic.

Step 2: Organize

After choosing a topic and researching, it’s time to write the outline using all the gathered information. It should match the layout of the essay: an introduction, a body section, and a conclusion. Have you ever written down something but couldn’t read from your handwriting later on? This usually happens if you have bad handwriting or the information is too clustered to read. You don’t want to rely on such an outline, especially when pressed for time. So, you must organize your plan to match the essay structure .

Introduction

Some ways to start your introduction paragraph are anecdotes, proverbs or idioms, definitions, statistics, quotes, or facts. You can begin your essay outline by jotting down the main ideas for the introduction, which should also include a thesis statement. The point is to equip yourself with a road map, so short sentences should suffice.

Body paragraphs

Each body paragraph provides one idea that supports your thesis statement and is backed by facts, details, and examples. There will be more or fewer paragraphs here, depending on the essay volume. But, when writing a standard essay, you would usually need three body paragraphs, each of which should be in your outline. Remember that every paragraph must start with a topic sentence supported by two or three independent ideas with a link (transition) sentence at the end.

This paragraph summarizes every major point in the essay with some broader context. For a short paper, three to five sentences should be used for the concluding section of your paper.

Below is a template of a standard five-paragraph essay outline structure template that you can download by clicking on the button under the image.

Once you’re done, remember to proofread and edit to ensure you haven’t missed something important.

Essay outline examples

Now that you know how to write an outline, analyze the samples below to better understand how to apply this theory in practice. Each sample essay outline was hand-picked to ensure it corresponds to all key principles of creating one.

CLICK OR TAP ON THE IMAGE TO DOWNLOAD IT IN PDF

Wetlands essay persuasive outline example thumbnail

Argumentative essay outline example

Similar to persuasive essays, argumentative essays are designed to persuade the reader to accept a specific point of view. They require the writer to use relevant evidence and reasoning to support their arguments while addressing and refuting opposing viewpoints.

For example, an argumentative essay outline on the topic “The Necessity of Renewable Energy” could be structured as follows:

A. Start with a striking statistic about current global energy consumption.
B. Provide background on the reliance on non-renewable energy sources.
C. Thesis: “In the face of escalating environmental crises and depleting non-renewable resources, transitioning to renewable energy sources emerges as an indispensable solution, not only to mitigate ecological damage but also to ensure long-term sustainability and economic viability for future generations.”
1. Detail the ecological damage caused by fossil fuels.
2. Highlight the contribution of non-renewable energy to global warming.
1. Describe the long-term environmental benefits of renewable sources.
2. Discuss technological advancements in renewable energy.
1. Address concerns about the high cost and practicality.
2. Provide evidence of decreasing costs and increasing efficiency.
A. Reiterate the thesis in light of the arguments presented.
B. Summarize the environmental and economic benefits.
C. Concluding statement: Call to action for policy changes and individual responsibility.

Narrative essay outline example

Narrative essays tell a story, focusing on personal experiences and emotions. For instance, a narrative essay titled “My Journey to Becoming a Volunteer” could have the following example outline:

A. Open with a personal anecdote about the desire to help others.
B. Set the scene for the volunteer journey.
C. Thesis: “My journey to becoming a volunteer was a transformative experience that reshaped my understanding of community and self, teaching me invaluable lessons in empathy, resilience, and the profound impact of selfless service on both personal growth and the well-being of others.”
1. Describe the initial motivation and decision-making process.
2. Mention key influences or events leading to the decision.
1. Narrate specific experiences and interactions during volunteering.
2. Reflect on challenges faced and how they were overcome.
1. Discuss the skills and insights acquired.
2. Illustrate how the experience changed perspectives on community and self.
A. Summarize the journey and its impact.
B. Reflect on the personal changes and growth experienced.
C. Closing thoughts: The ongoing importance of volunteer work.

Compare and contrast essay outline example

Compare and contrast essays examine the similarities and differences between two subjects, offering a balanced view. For example, a compare and contrast essay on “Online Learning vs. Traditional Classroom” might follow this outline:

A. Discuss the rise of online learning platforms.
B. Contrast online and traditional classroom settings.
C. Thesis Statement: “While both online learning and traditional classroom education aim to deliver quality education, they differ significantly in terms of their learning environments and teacher-student interactions, each offering unique advantages and challenges that cater to diverse learning needs and preferences.”
1. Compare the curriculum and teaching materials used in both settings.
2. Illustrate with examples of course content in both formats.
1. Detail the virtual setting of online learning vs. physical classrooms.
2. Discuss the impact of these environments on student engagement.
1. Compare the nature of interactions in online and traditional settings.
2. Examine the impact on student learning and participation.
A. Recap the key similarities and differences.
B. Reflect on the effectiveness of each mode of learning.
C. Final thoughts: Future trends in education.

Bottom line

Here are three key tips for students creating essay outlines:

Review Your Assignment: Start by thoroughly reading your assignment instructions. This helps you understand your essay type and any word count limits.
Keep Your Title and Thesis Handy: At the top of your outline, write down your essay’s title and the full thesis statement. This keeps your main idea in clear view as you work.
Take Notes During Research: As you research, jot down key points. These notes will be valuable when you’re building your essay outline.

Remember, essays vary widely, from argumentative and narrative to comparative and persuasive, each with its own goals and structure. Mastering the art of outlining is crucial for improving your writing skills and achieving higher grades. If you often struggle with organizing your thoughts or experience writer’s block, planning your essay before you start writing can be immensely helpful. With practice, you’ll be able to complete your assignments more quickly while maintaining high quality.

The earlier, the better. If you start researching without note-taking and creating an outline, you might do all that research in vain. You need to read a bit, find reputable sources that you will use, and analyze the evidence before planning. But, as soon as your argument starts shaping, you should start putting your thoughts on paper.

Planning is a bit individual. Some people benefit from it more than others. If you can generate ideas easily but struggle with the writing process, preparing a thorough outline will help. Conversely, if you’re having a hard time coming up with ideas, you might benefit more from writing right away. Overplanning can also be harmful when it doesn’t leave enough time to complete the paper.

Walden University — Outlining
Bow Valley College — Writing Support
Purdue University — Types of Outlines

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Writing a Top Thesis Outline – Your Comprehensive Guide

A thesis paper outline is a simple way of ensuring that each of your paragraphs serves a specific purpose in your paper. All students need to master this writing tool as it helps you organize your work.

What is a Thesis Outline?

A thesis outline is an organizational tool that writers use in their academic and professional thesis papers. Like a blueprint for your essay, it forms the foundation of the entire writing process. It is used to structure the main ideas into a list of easy and quick to follow contents.

Creating a thesis outline is vital in the following ways:

It gives a precise organization of the ideas Identifies parts of the paper that need special attention It singles out sections that need to be reduced or omitted Helps create connections and transitions where necessary It enables a student to fit the ideas systematically

Having a clearly defined thesis statement is better than a thousand thesis writers being dispatched at your disposal.

Thesis Outline Template

Now, what will make or break your master’s thesis outline or senior thesis outline is understanding its structure. It is not enough to have what to write but how to register it as well. That is why you need this template when writing a thesis outline.

Thesis Outline Format

A conventional thesis paper will have the following sections:

Introduction (contains the background and thesis statement)
The body paragraphs
The conclusion

To attain this thesis structure’s best, you have to understand each part’s significance and how it contributes to the overall thesis paper. Let us look at how to write a thesis outline while delving deep into every section.

Thesis topic outline

A topic is described as the trigger button of your paper. It will determine whether your reader will have the interest to read your thesis or not. Therefore, when you are thinking about your thesis topic, consider the following:

It should be brief and to the point (Do not explain or illustrate, just state)
Use the keywords provided in the assignment for your topic
AVOID using punctuations at the end
It should be an eye-catcher and act as a bait

For you to have a good thesis topic, it should offer a solution. Nobody wants to spend his precious time on a paper that does not address a prevailing societal problem.

How to do a thesis statement outline

The thesis statement is written in the introductory paragraph. Since this is the main idea for your paper, there is no room for error. Start with an attention-grabber that will lead the reader to your thesis statement.

Example of an attention grabber : Did you know that the average person who stays at home every day consumes over 10 tons of calories in a week?

Sample thesis statement : Excess calorie is a contributing factor to the high obesity rates patients witnessed in hospitals.

When creating a thesis statement outline, ensure that it relates to your introductory paragraph’s first two or three statements. Let it come out clearly so that the reader is prepared for what is coming next in the paper’s body.

They are made up of arguments in support of the thesis statement. This section carries a lot of weight as it either persuades or turns off the reader. Here is an outline for thesis paper body paragraphs:

Identify the main points Look for supporting ideas or evidence Have a list of transitional words from one section to another

The body of a thesis consists of the Literature Review, Research Methods, Results, and Discussion. It is recommended to begin with the literature review first before proceeding to the other two sections.

Since the Discussion is the longest part of the thesis, ensure that you gather all the necessary information needed to furnish it. In this part, you will need to identify the following aspects of your research process:

Limitations of your study,
Explanations for unexpected results, and
Identify any questions that remain unanswered.

Every argument should be crystal clear to prevent any doubt or object on the part of the reader.

The Conclusion

Though it appears last, it is one of the most critical sections of your thesis. It is the chapter that shows whether you achieved your research objectives or not. In this part, you can point out the following:

Point out the challenges you encountered in your study Your lessons from the research Make recommendations for future research

The conclusion should be a point where you identify whether every hypothesis was met or objective was achieved. It is vital to note that this chapter should short and clear to the end. Now that you have argued your case make this as your final nail to the coffin.

How To Make a Thesis Outline – Step By Step Guide

A superb outline can ease your research process and make your thesis writing process quick and easy. When you are thinking of creating a thesis paper outline, consider the following steps:

Read and understand the question first. If your tutor has given you a topic or question for your thesis, ensure that you digest it well to understand what is required of you. It will help to align your thesis outline correctly. Check for similar thesis outlines on the same topic. You can Google for any reliable thesis outline example that is similar to your topic of research. By doing this, you will get a rough idea of what is expected of you. Consult with your professor on the thesis outline format for your institution. Different institutions have varying structures, and thus, you need to use one that matches your institution’s house style. Do not rush into creating the outline. Before you draft your strategy, ensure that you have all the essentials at your fingertips first. Since this will be your guiding principle, it should be devoid of any errors or bogus steps.

After setting your house in order, writing your thesis paper is now time for the real task.

If you did not know how to create a thesis outline, we hope that this writing guide has served that purpose for you. Nevertheless, we also have a thesis writing service that offers students with online assistance.

Get help with thesis outline at affordable rates today. You can also find a master thesis outline example from gurus who have been in this business for decades. What is holding you now?

6 Steps to Writing the Perfect Personal Essay

Personal essays are easy once you know how!

Tips For Adult Students
Getting Your Ged

B.A., English, St. Olaf College

It is the first day of a new school year and your teacher has just assigned a personal essay. They have good reasons for this assignment—personal or narrative essays allow teachers to assess your grasp of language, composition, and creativity.

If you don't know where to start or feel overwhelmed by the open-ended prompt, this list is here to help you navigate the process from beginning to end. Writing about yourself is easy to do when you keep the key ingredients of a great essay in mind.

Find Inspiration and Ideas

You can't begin a personal essay without a topic. If you are stuck on what to write about, look to some of these sources of inspiration:

Consult lists of ideas to get your brain thinking about the possibilities of your essay. Remember that a personal essay is autobiographical, so do not write about anything untrue.
Try writing a stream of consciousness . To do this, start writing whatever is on your mind and don't stop or leave anything out. Even if ideas aren't connected to each other whatsoever, a stream of consciousness gets everything in your brain on paper and often contains many ideas.
Do a little research. Browsing through whatever interests you can really get the creative juices flowing and lead to small self-reflections. Grab onto any of these that you think you might want to write about.

Don't be afraid to ask your teacher what they are looking for. If you still aren't sure what to write about, go to your teacher for suggestions or a more specific prompt.

Understand the Composition of an Essay

Before you start writing, remind yourself of basic essay composition. Almost all essays are made up of three parts: an introduction, a body of information, and a conclusion. The five-paragraph essay is a common iteration of this and it contains an introductory paragraph, three body paragraphs, and a conclusion paragraph. Use an outline, or general essay plan, to jot down your ideas before writing.

Introduction : Start your personal essay with a hook, or an interesting sentence that grabs your readers' attention and makes them want to read more. Select a topic that you know you can write an interesting essay about. Once you have a compelling topic, decide on the main idea you want to communicate and use it to capture your readers' interest in the first sentence.

After the hook, use the introductory paragraph to briefly outline the subject of your essay. Your readers should have a clear understanding of the direction of the rest of your piece from the introduction.

Body : The body of your essay is made up of one or more paragraphs that inform your readers about your topic, each paragraph accomplishing this in a unique way.

The structure of a paragraph resembles the structure of an essay. A paragraph contains an attention-grabbing topic sentence, several sentences elaborating on the point of the paragraph, and a conclusion sentence or two that summarizes the main idea. The conclusion sentence of a paragraph should also be used to transition into the next paragraph by smoothly introducing the next topic without going into too much detail.

Each paragraph should have its own idea that is closely related to the topic of the whole essay but elaborates on the main idea in a new way. It is important that topics flow logically from one to the next so that your essay is easy to follow. If your paragraphs are not related to each other or the main idea, your essay may be choppy and incoherent. Keeping your sentences concise also helps with clarity. Feel free to break a large paragraph up into two separate paragraphs if the topic changes or goes on for too long.

Conclusion : Close your essay with a final paragraph that summarizes the points you have made and states the takeaways. When writing personal essays, conclusion paragraphs are where you talk about the lessons you learned, ways that you changed as a result of your subject, or any other insights that were gained from your experience. In short: restate the ideas from the introduction in a new way and wrap up your essay.

Use Appropriate Voice for Essay and Verbs

In English grammar, there are many elements of writing that determine the quality of your work and voice is one of the most important. There are two types of voice: the author's voice and the voice of verbs.

Author's Voice

One of the things your teacher will be looking for when reading your personal essay is the use of voice in your essay, which is your own personal style of telling a story. They will be looking for features of your writing that make it unique, analyze the pacing of your essay, and determine how you establish your authority.

Because personal essays are works of nonfiction, your voice must be reliable. Other than that, you are free to play around with the delivery of your essay. Decide how formal or casual you want to be, how you want to keep the attention of your readers, how you would like your readers to feel when reading your essay, and how you would like your story to come across as a whole.

Voice of Verbs

Don't be confused—verbs have their own voice that is entirely separate from the author's voice. The active voice occurs when the subject of your sentence is performing the action or verb and the passive voice occurs when the subject is receiving the action.

The subject is italicized in the following examples.

Passive : An essay was assigned by Ms. Peterson.

Active : Ms. Peterson assigned a personal essay about summer vacation.

Generally, the active voice is most appropriate for personal essays as it is more effective at progressing a story forward. Using verbs in the active voice also tends to come across as more authoritative.

Be Consistent With Point of View and Tense

Personal essays are about yourself, so it is important that your point of view and tense be consistent with this. Personal essays are almost always written in first person tense, using the pronouns I, we, and us to tell what happened. Readers need to know what something was like from your perspective.

Remember that you can only speak to your own thoughts and feelings in first person tense unless you know for sure what another person was thinking or feeling and can quote them.

Personal essays are also written in the past tense because they describe something that happened to you, not something that is happening or will happen. You cannot speak confidently about experiences that have not happened or are still happening because you have not yet learned from them. Teachers will probably want you to write a personal essay to reflect on a real experience that taught you something.

Use Your Own Vocabulary

Just as you shouldn't lie when writing personal essays, you also shouldn't waver. Your choice of vocabulary can help you establish and maintain themes throughout your essay. Every word matters.

Your goal when writing a personal essay should be authenticity and you need to choose your vocabulary accordingly. Use the words that naturally come to mind when you are writing and don't try to be something that you are not. Your language should fit the topic and guide readers to interpret your writing in a certain way.

Here are some examples of how to choose the right words.

When you are making a statement of opinion or fact, use powerful words that make your ideas clear. For example, say, "I ran like my life depended on it," rather than, "I ran pretty fast."
If you are trying to communicate uncertainty that you felt during an experience, use words that convey these feelings. "I questioned whether or not it was a good idea," rather than, "I didn't know what would happen."
Use positive language. Write about what did happen or what is rather than what did not happen or what is not . "I left room for dessert after dinner," instead of, "I hated dinner and couldn't even finish it."

Always be as descriptive as possible and incorporate all of your senses into your writing. Write about how something looked, sounded, felt, smelled, or tasted to help your readers imagine the experience for themselves. Use adjectives that support what you have described but do not use them to do the work of describing for you.

Edit, Edit, Edit

English grammar is tough even for native English speakers. Brush up on grammar rules before writing and revisit your work when you are finished to ensure that you have written an essay that you can be proud of.

No matter what you write, one of the most important parts of the writing process is editing . It is good practice to give yourself some space from your essay just after finishing it before you dive into editing because this can help you analyze your writing more objectively. A second opinion is always helpful too.

When editing, ask yourself these questions:

Is the grammar/sentence structure of your essay correct?
Is your essay well-organized and easy to follow? Does it flow?
Is your writing on topic throughout the essay?
Will your readers be able to picture what you have described?
Did you make your point?
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Academic Writing

How to Write a Personal Essay

Last Updated: February 2, 2023 Fact Checked

This article was co-authored by Jake Adams . Jake Adams is an academic tutor and the owner of Simplifi EDU, a Santa Monica, California based online tutoring business offering learning resources and online tutors for academic subjects K-College, SAT & ACT prep, and college admissions applications. With over 14 years of professional tutoring experience, Jake is dedicated to providing his clients the very best online tutoring experience and access to a network of excellent undergraduate and graduate-level tutors from top colleges all over the nation. Jake holds a BS in International Business and Marketing from Pepperdine University. There are 10 references cited in this article, which can be found at the bottom of the page. This article has been fact-checked, ensuring the accuracy of any cited facts and confirming the authority of its sources. This article has been viewed 312,081 times.

A good personal essay can move and inspire readers. It can also leave the reader unsettled, uncertain, and full of more questions than answers. To write an effective personal essay, you will need to first understand the structure of a personal essay. You will then need to brainstorm ideas for the personal essay so you are ready when it is time to sit down and craft your essay.

Starting Your Personal Essay

For example, maybe you want to write about an experience where you learned about failure. You may think the time you failed a pop quiz in class. Though the quiz may have seemed insignificant to you at the time, you realized later that failing the pop quiz forced you to reassess your goals and motivated you to get a passing grade. Seen from a certain angle, your small failure became a gateway to perseverance and determination.

This could be a seemingly small moment that ended up having a profound influence on you later, such the first time you experienced disgust as a child or the look on your mother’s face when you told her you were gay. Try to really dig into why you were hurt or compelled to overcome a challenge in this moment in your essay.
Remember that moments charged with strong emotion will often be more engaging to readers. Having a strong reaction to a specific moment will allow you to write passionately about it and keep your reader interested in your essay.

Step 3 Discuss a specific event that triggered an emotional response.

For example, you may focus on the day you found out your father cheated on your mother, or the week you mourned the death of a loved one. Think about a heavy experience in your life that shaped who you are today.
You may also decide to write about a seemingly light topic or event, such as your first ride on a roller coaster, or the first time you went on a cruise with your partner. No matter what event you choose, make sure it is an event that triggered a strong emotional response, ranging from anger to confusion to unabashed joy.

Step 4 Think of a person in your life that you have difficulty with in some way.

For example, you may think about why you and your mother stopped speaking years ago or why you are no longer close to a childhood friend. You may also look at past romantic relationships that failed and consider why they did not succeed or a relationship with a mentor that went sour.
This could also be about someone that you're close with. For example, you could write about a moment that tested your relationship with a close friend.

Ask yourself questions about the current event. For example, how does the current event intersect with your own experiences? How can you explore a current social issue or event using your personal thoughts, experiences, and emotions?
For example, you may have an interest in writing about Syrian refugee camps in Europe. You may then focus your personal essay on your own status as a refugee in America and how your experiences a refugee have shaped the person you are now. This will allow you to explore a current event from a personal perspective, rather than simply talk about the current event from a distant, journalistic perspective.

The introductory section should include “the hook”, opening lines where you catch the reader’s attention. It should also have some sort of narrative thesis, which is often the beginning of an important event in the piece or a theme that connects your experience to a universal idea.
The body sections should include supporting evidence for your narrative thesis and/or the key themes in your piece. Often, this is in the form of your experiences and your reflections on your experiences. You should also note the passage of time in your body sections so the reader is aware of when and how certain events occurred.
The concluding section should include a conclusion to the events and experiences discussed in the essay. You should also have a moral of the story moment, where you reflect on what you learned from your experiences or how your experiences changed your life.
In the past, it was advised to have five paragraphs total, one paragraph for the introductory section, three paragraphs for the body section, and one paragraph for the concluding section. But you can have more or less than five paragraphs for your personal essay as long as you have all three sections.

Writing the Personal Essay

Step 1 Begin with an engaging opening scene.

Don't begin with a line that explains exactly what is going to be discussed in, such as, “In this essay, I will be discussing my fraught relationship with my mother." Instead, draw your reader into your piece and still provide all the information needed in your opening line.
Start instead with a specific scene that contains the key characters of the essay and allows you discuss the central question or theme. Doing this will allow you to introduce the reader to the characters and the central conflict right away.
For example, if you are writing about your fraught relationship with your mother, you may focus on a specific memory where you both disagreed or clashed. This could be the time you and your mother fought over a seemingly insignificant item, or the time you argued about a family secret.
Try to use an active voice instead of a passive voice as much as possible when you're writing your essay.

Step 2 Write from your unique voice or perspective.

This writing voice may be conversational, much like how you might speak to a good friend or a family member. Or, the writing voice may be more reflective and internal, where you question your own assumptions and thoughts about the subject of the essay.
Many personal essays are written in the first person, using “I”. You may decide to write in the present tense to make the story feel immediate, or past tense, which will allow you to reflect more on specific events or moments.
Include vivid sensory descriptions in your essay to help the reader connect with your unique perspective. Describing touch, smell, taste, sight, and sound can help the reader invest in your story and feel like they're there with you.

Step 3 Develop the characters so they are well-rounded and detailed.

You can also include lines of dialogue spoken by your characters, based on your memory of the event. However, you should limit dialogue to only a few lines a page, as too much dialogue can start to veer away from personal essay and more toward fiction.

You may use a plot outline to organize your essay. The plot points should act as supporting evidence for the central question or issue of the essay.

Step 5 Focus on uncovering a deeper truth.

It’s important to remember that though an experience may appear to have all the drama necessary to make a good personal essay, it may be a drama that is too familiar to the reader already. Be wary of experiences that are familiar and filled with pathos that a reader may have experienced before.
If you are writing about the sudden death of a loved one, for example, it may feel important and deep to you. But the reader will likely know what to expect of an essay about a dead loved one, and may not relate to your essay because they did not know the loved one like you did.
Instead, you may try to uncover a truth that is deeper than “I am sad my loved one died.” Think about what the loved one meant to you and how the loved one affected your life, in positive and negative ways. This could lead to the uncovering of a deeper truth and a stronger personal essay.

Polishing Your Essay

Step 1 Try out different literary techniques and forms.

For example, you may use metaphor to describe the experience of telling your mother you are gay. You may describe your mother’s face as “impenetrable, a sudden wall”. Or you may use a simile, such as “my mother’s reaction was silent and stunned, as if she had been struck by lightning.”

As you read it out loud, you should highlight any sentences that are confusing or unclear as well as sentences that do not appear as strong as the rest of the draft. You should also make sure your characters are well developed and your essay follows some kind of structure or sense of plot. Consider if you are hitting a deeper truth in your draft and what you can do to get there if it is not yet on the page.Revising your essay will only make it that much stronger.

When you are revising, you should consider if your content is really worth writing about, if you are writing about a topic or subject you are passionate about, and if your reader will understand your writing. You want to avoid confusing your reader, as this can turn her off from reading to the end of your essay.
You should also make sure the focus and themes of the essay are clear. Your experiences should center around a central question, issue, or theme. This will ensure your personal essay is well written and concise.
Avoid relying on spellcheck to catch all of the spelling and grammar errors in your essay.

Expert Q&A

To get a better sense of the genre, you should read highly crafted examples of personal essay. There are several known personal essays that are often taught in academia, including "Notes of a Native Son” by James Baldwin, “The Death of a Moth” by Virginia Woolf, “Shipping Out” by David Foster Wallace, “The White Album” by Joan Didion, and “We Do Abortions Here” by Sallie Tisdale. Thanks Helpful 1 Not Helpful 0
Ask yourself several questions as you read the examples, such as: How does the writer introduce the subject of their essay? How does the writer explore the subject for a personal perspective? What are the key themes in the essay? How does the writer connect their personal experiences to a universal theme or idea? How does the writer use humor or wit in the essay? What is the concluding moral of the essay? Does the end of the essay leave you satisfied, unsettled, curious, or all of the above? Thanks Helpful 1 Not Helpful 0

Sample Essay and Template

↑ https://owl.excelsior.edu/writing-process/thesis-sentence/thesis-sentence-angles/
↑ Jake Adams. Academic Tutor & Test Prep Specialist. Expert Interview. 20 May 2020.
↑ https://courses.lumenlearning.com/englishcomp1/chapter/writing-a-narrative-or-personal-essay/
↑ https://www.grammarly.com/blog/personal-essay/
↑ https://www.indeed.com/career-advice/career-development/how-to-write-a-personal-essay
↑ https://stlcc.edu/student-support/academic-success-and-tutoring/writing-center/writing-resources/point-of-view-in-academic-writing.aspx
↑ https://www.grammarly.com/blog/story-plot/
↑ https://www.grammarly.com/blog/literary-devices/
↑ http://admissions.vanderbilt.edu/vandybloggers/2013/09/how-to-write-your-personal-essay/
↑ http://writingcenter.unc.edu/handouts/revising-drafts/

About This Article

To write a personal essay, start by deciding on an experience that affected your life in some way, such as how failing a pop quiz in class made you change your goals. Next, draft an outline containing the points you want to make, and including an introduction, body paragraphs, and conclusion. When writing, start your essay with an engaging scene that introduces the characters and main theme, then develop the characters in the body section so they're well-rounded. Conclude by summing up what you learned from the experience. For tips on how to include a plot in your essay and how to proofread your work, read on! Did this summary help you? Yes No

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How to Write a Personal Essay: Topics, Structure, & Examples

Even though a personal essay seems like something you might need to write only for your college application, people who graduated a while ago are asked to write it. Therefore, if you are a student, you might even want to save this article for later!

A personal essay is a first-person narrative that describes a writer’s life experience and its influence . You may think that writing such an essay is easy-peasy. There is so much freedom regarding the topic, isn’t it? However, soon enough, you realize that it’s more of a curse than a blessing. Custom-writing.org experts understand it’s super confusing as you don’t know where to start. But this simple yet comprehensive guide on how to write a personal essay is here to help you out!

❔ What Is a Personal Essay?

🚦 how do you start a personal essay.

🙋 Essay Topics
📑 Personal Essay Types

🔗 References

A personal essay is just what you think it is: a piece of writing that presents some experience from your perspective . It doesn’t need to be extraordinary, but it has to show how you changed thanks to the experience you got. Such an essay also creates a feeling of intimacy.

A typical personal essay consists of a 1-paragraph introduction, a 3-paragraph body, and a 1-paragraph conclusion.

Long story short, it is a first-person narrative that describes a writer’s life experience and its influence. This type of essay allows you to use any writing style you want and usually has an informal tone. It helps the reader to gain a connection with you.

There is a wide variety of topic options: you may want your writing to be inspiring or, on the contrary, warning so that others could avoid your mistakes. However, the most important thing is sticking to the general guidelines.

The most popular personal essay outline would consist of three parts:

Start with an introduction . It should include only one paragraph
Continue with the main body . It should be at least three paragraphs long
Write a conclusion . Don’t make it too long, one paragraph is enough

Let’s also note that typically you would write a personal essay as a part of the college application process. However, it’s not rare that this type of writing can help employers understand if the candidate meets the job requirements.

👀 Personal Essay Examples

To give you some inspiration, we included a list of excellent examples ranked as the most successful personal essays by The New York Times , The New Yorker , and America’s top universities.

🥇	by Jeniffer Kim	A heart-breaking short story about parents’ love: a girl was ashamed of how scruffy her mom always looks, but it suddenly changed. She realized that her mother was sacrificing a lot to provide for her daughter, which made her seem tired and shabby.
🥇	by Jess	It’s another excellent example of a personal essay rated by the admissions committee. Such a simple thing as a cooking experience allowed the readers to see that Jess is not afraid of failure and loves trying something new.
🥇	by James Marcus	It is a personal story revealing the author’s point of view on divorces and marriages. His story is so unique that it got distinguished by The New Yorker.

The first and the most important thing you need to do when you are about to write a personal essay is to determine its purpose . When you know your audience, it becomes easier to find an appropriate topic for your writing. After that, you can draft an outline, which is the foundation of your future essay!

✔️		Do that several times. Your complete writing depends on it! for college admissions are different from the ones you would write for a job application. Moreover, some writers even use this format to share their stories with readers.
✔️		Next, think about how long your essay should be. Again, it would depend on its purpose. Now, you are free to pick the topic! There are a lot of techniques that can help you come up with some brilliant ideas, such as brainstorming and free writing.
✔️		Generally speaking, there are not many limitations on what you can write about. However, keep in mind that if your personal statement is intended for your potential employer, try to avoid topics that might harm your reputation. If your objective is getting a scholarship, don’t be afraid of asking your supervisor for help.

🙋 Personal Essay Topics

By now, you might have understood the idea of the personal statement. Your goal is to show off your personality from the good side. However, there is an endless amount of options on how to do it. The most popular way is to tell the story from the past. It can be either something you achieved or an obstacle you managed to overcome. Either way, it needs to highlight the lesson you learned.

Next, you can make your writing even more inspirational by revealing your future goals, showing that you have potential and determination. But remember to focus on things that the whole community can benefit from because just getting rich is a lame objective!

Last but not least, be yourself and use creativity! Show your potential employers and college administration how much you can contribute to their development. You should convince them that it can be a mutually beneficial experience.

Here, we prepared some of the best personal essay topics for you:

How did the most significant loss of your life make you stronger?
Who would you like to switch live with, and why?
The time when you think you made the wrong choice.
How would you spend a million dollars?
Is there anything you have never shared with anyone?
A special friend that influenced your life.
One morning that has changed your life forever.
The time when you had to deliver devastating news.
A near-death experience and how it felt.
Describe the longest minute of your life.
Something you can’t resist and keep doing.
A meaningful event that is hard to explain.
Would you start a charity foundation if you could?
The most precious gift you ever received.
The wrong choice you never regret making.
A secret place that gives you peace of mind.
Something you’ve seen and wish you could forget.
A hidden talent no one knows you have.
A day when you felt like the unluckiest person in the world.
The most beautiful thing you’ve seen.
A skill you have that robots will never learn to do.
What is the one thing you want to change about yourself?
Where would you like to live?
The most important discovery you made.
What if you were a teacher?
The most fantastic movie scene that changed the world.
What would you like to change in schools?
Describe something you love about yourself and why.
Where do you see yourself in ten years?
Time with your family that you cherish the most.
The achievement you’re proud of.
Describe the time when you learned something from a child.
The words that made you hopeful again.
Write about the time when you were at the bottom.
A stranger that had an influence on you.
What would you do if you could go back in time?
Would you like to redo something in your life, would you?
The superpower you wish you had.
The person you would be grateful to at the end of your life.
The time when you avoided danger.
Family celebrations, and what do they mean to you?
Write about the time when you saw your mother crying.
Did you disappoint anyone?
Is there anyone you are not fond of?
A place that you try to keep away from.
How did you overcome your fear?
The most challenging choice you had to make.
The time you felt like an outsider.
When did you realize you’re not a child anymore?
Why does your hobby interest you?

📑 Personal Essay about Yourself: Main Types

Personal essays on hobbies.

Writing an essay on a hobby is not as easy as it seems. Take a look at any hobbies essay sample, and you will be likely to see a widespread thing: these essays can be boring, which is an easy way to get a low grade.

Below are some common problems with hobby essays (and their solutions).

❌ Problem	✔️ Solution
The writer didn’t explain the hobby well enough for the reader to understand it.	Try to determine if a random reader would understand your hobby. If not, include more detail. If your hobby is a rare one, you will need to have more information.
The reader does not see why you enjoy the hobby.	The purpose of a hobby essay is not to describe the things you love to do with every detail. The task is to show yourself by explaining your interest. Most importantly, you should explain why you love your hobby. Do that emotionally.
Your hobby essay does not stand out from other papers.	Focus on a unique hobby or a unique reason you became interested in a standard hobby. Perhaps your teacher has already read 15 . If you think the story of your love for your top hobby is generic, think of another personal essay topic to write about.

No matter what, make sure the focus is on you. When you are writing about a personal hobby, you should aim to make yourself the star by essentially telling your reader about yourself through an interest of yours.

Life-changing Experience Essays

The purpose of a life-changing experience essay is obvious: simply put, you need to tell the reader about a specific event that changed your life . Note that it also works for a closely related type of essay, the personal narrative essay .

Three essential elements should be clear to readers of any life-changing experience writing:

The reader should understand the event — both what happened and how it made you feel at the time.
The reader should understand what the event changed about you. It is best to tell the reader about your condition before the event and after it. However, this depends on the essay’s length.
The reader should understand how you feel about the event now.

If you need personal experience essay ideas, focus on events that you can write about to meet the three above criteria. If your assignment is very free form, take a look at a list of prompts for personal writing.

Education Essays

As a student, you will be asked to write an education essay eventually. It is important to remember that personal writing is about setting yourself apart. Tell the reader what made your educational experience unique.

How can you make your educational essay stand out? First, go beyond generic stories of overcoming an academic weakness by avoiding essays that take the following form: “I was terrible at subject X, but through hard work, I became quite excellent at subject X!”

Instead, focus on an assignment or subject that captured your attention — the more unusual the situation, the better. Use storytelling to enhance your essay. The best education essays can be essays about life-changing education experiences; for example, many great educational stories focus on the teacher or class that changed the author’s life.

Biographies

Writing a short biography is easy. All you need to do is to use a very basic biography template. But first: remember that you need to keep the attention of your reader. Tell a good story about yourself ! Learning how to write a biography is about learning how to tell a good story .

A Biography Template

A solid biography is a solid story. For this reason, the biography template is essentially the template of a well-crafted story, which is typically divided into three specific parts:

Establish the characters. In this case, these are people that play important roles in your life. For example, if your autobiographical essay includes family members, you need to describe them briefly before anything exciting happens.
Build tension. If you write about your family, you can describe a problem that exists there.
Describe a resolution. Not that it is not the same thing as a problem being solved. For example, when a loved one dies, there is no solution to that problem. Instead, you grieve and learn to live without that person in your life.

If your biography manages to achieve all three of these elements, you will indeed have one of the class’s strongest essays.

Personal Statements

The last type of personal writing is probably the most important. When faced with their first college application, most students go to the web to find a personal statement format.

If you learn from examples, the best thing to do is check out several strong personal statement examples. As mentioned in the second section, many universities post essays from accepted students. Or perhaps you should read a breakdown of portions of a personal statement. The point is, read what others have done for inspiration.

Sometimes colleges offer personal statement templates. However, they often use freeform personal statements to identify focused, articulate students. Thus, the top tip for these is to write a clear thesis statement . A thesis statement for an essay without a prompt should be so clear that it sounds like it addresses a writing prompt. When there is no prompt, this is the time you should specifically use the standard 5-paragraph essay . Your discipline will impress your readers, which is exactly what you want.

However, an open-ended essay prompt is sometimes just too much to handle in time, but that is alright. It happens to everyone, and our writing experts can help, luckily. You can work with one of their expert writers or editors to create the perfect personal essay.

Personal Essays – Georgia Tech Admissions
The Personal Statement // Purdue Writing Lab
Application Essays – UNC Writing Center
How To: Write Your Personal Essay
Essays | Penn Admissions
Writing the Personal Statement | Berkeley Graduate Division
Personal Insight Questions – UCLA Undergraduate Admission
Essay Topics | Yale College Undergraduate Admissions
Complete Your Application: Indiana University Bloomington
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How to Write a Personal Essay

Published September 27, 2020. Updated May 20, 2022.

Personal Essay Definition

A personal essay is an essay that tells about you, about some aspect of yourself and your life that you wish to share.

Overview of a Personal Essay

A personal essay is all about the one who is writing the essay, but it is structured and organized in a predictable pattern. A personal essay is a part narration (telling a story), part description, and part reflection (analyzing something that happened and attributing meaning to it). You can write a full-length personal essay without doing research. This kind of essay helps to show your writing skills and abilities and helps the reader get to know you and your writing voice. However, a personal essay still needs a focus.

This page covers the following points:

Key Takeaways

What is a personal essay, parts of an essay, why would you be asked to write a personal essay, what a personal essay needs to have, possible topics to write about.

A personal essay is about you, about some aspect of yourself and your life that you wish to share
A teacher might assign a personal essay as a way to get to know you and your writing style
A personal essay still needs to follow the conventions and structures of essay writing
A personal essay should have a well-defined beginning, middle, and end

If you look at the name, a personal essay is an essay about YOU. You know something about yourself, right? This should be a piece of cake to write!

Now, hang on just a second…

Yes, it’s about you, but don’t forget that second part of the name: essay. It is still an essay that needs to follow the conventions and structures of essay writing.

So a personal essay is not just five paragraphs that go on and on about your favorite movies.

A personal essay is all about you, but it is structured and organized in a predictable pattern. It is part narration (telling a story), part description, and part reflection (analyzing something that happened and attributing meaning to it).

To help you write a personal essay, this guide will:

Tell you why a teacher might assign a personal essay
List what a personal essay needs to have
Give you a list of possible topics to write about
Take you through the parts of an essay, with a sample

Worried about your writing? Submit your paper for a Chegg Writing essay check , or for an Expert Check proofreading . Both can help you find and fix potential writing issues.

Most essays have three parts: an introduction, a body, and a conclusion.

Think of the organization of an essay like this:

Intro – Tell your reader what you’re going to write about
Body – Write about it
Conclusion – Tell them what you wrote about

Let’s go through each part of a personal essay. Each part includes a sample.

Introduction

You want to begin your essay with a hook . A hook is an interesting opening that “catches” your reader and makes them want to read more. Your hook is usually the first sentence or two. Since this is a personal essay, it’s fine to have your hook be something interesting about you.

After you’ve hooked the reader, you want to give some context or background information. Think of each sentence in your intro as a stepping point. Each sentence brings you closer to your thesis statement.

Once you’ve given some context, write a thesis statement, which tells the reader exactly what they’re going to read about. Since it’s a personal essay, this should preview for the reader what they’re going to learn about you. Think of it as a map to the rest of your essay.

Sample Introduction

Can you identify the hook, background information, and thesis statement in this sample?

Did you know that children can “absorb” languages without even trying? Until the age of about nine, children acquire languages, and they can acquire more than one at a time. After that age, new languages must be learned, which is a long, slow process. I acquired two languages as a child because my parents spoke Spanish at home, but I learned English at school. Then, in university, I decided to try to learn a third language: French. After years of learning and some practicing, I can communicate in basic French.

A typical essay has between one and three body paragraphs, although you can write as many as you need (or as many as your teacher assigns you). Regardless of how many body paragraphs, they will all be organized in a similar manner.

Start with a topic sentence to show your reader what is coming up. This is a general sentence that gives an overview of that paragraph.

The substance of a personal body paragraph is, of course, information about you. Whatever you’re sharing with the reader goes here.

End a body paragraph with a sentence that summarizes what you wrote or that leads into the next paragraph.

Sample Body Paragraphs

Can you identify the topic sentences? Is all of the information in the body paragraphs about the writer?

In university, I chose to study French for two reasons. First, I thought it was the most beautiful language I’d ever heard. Second, I wanted the experience of learning a language, of learning vocabulary and grammar little by little. I took a French class every semester of college and by the time I graduated… well, the truth is that I still couldn’t communicate easily. But I was determined to continue learning until I could.

In graduate school, I needed an elective, so I chose a French class. I took a placement test and was placed in French 102. At first, I was devastated – four years of college French and I was back in French 102? But I decided to embrace the opportunity to keep learning. My decision paid off. Because I was a little older, I approached my French in a more mature way. I was able to understand the grammar better, and I was less shy about speaking up. One of our assignments was to give a three-minute presentation in French about a French topic, and I spoke about cheese. I will admit that a lot of translation took place while I was writing my presentation, but the presentation was a success.

After graduate school, I took the opportunity to spend six months in a French-speaking country. At first, I was very nervous. We have all heard the stereotype of finicky French people who won’t talk to you if your French isn’t perfect. That wasn’t my experience at all; I was able to communicate enough to buy a baguette every morning, ask for directions, order a pizza, and generally make my way in this French-speaking country.

Before you turn in that paper, don’t forget to cite your sources in APA format , MLA format , or a style of your choice.

This is how your essay ends and is the last impression your reader takes away.

Conclude your essay by tying back to your thesis statement (from the introduction). Then, summarize the main points of your essay.

If you want, end with a closing statement: an idea that you want your reader to walk away with. If you haven’t included a reflection in the body paragraphs, the closing statement would be a good place to put it.

Sample Conclusion

Can you identify the sentence that ties back to the thesis statement? Can you identify the summary of the main points? Can you identify a closing statement?

Even now, I wouldn’t say I’m a fluent French speaker. Will I ever be? I don’t know, but I can proudly say that I am able to communicate in French well enough to make myself understood and to understand what other people tell me, even if I often have to ask, “Can you speak more slowly, please?” in French. Learning another language is not an easy process. You have to really want it because it will take time and effort. However, if you are dedicated, you can definitely learn another language successfully enough to communicate.

Example Personal Essay on Learning French

Example personal essay on loving writing.

A teacher might assign a personal essay for a variety of reasons, especially early on in the semester or school year. Here are a few of those reasons:

You might need to brainstorm or outline what you want to write about, but you shouldn’t need research. After all, you’re writing about YOU.
Your teacher will be able to see how you write. Can you structure sentences? Are your ideas coherent? Are you creative? How is your vocabulary?
Do you know what the introduction, body, and conclusion are? Do you include a thesis statement and paragraphs? Do you clearly transition your ideas?
At the beginning of a school term, this is an excellent way for a teacher to get to know their students. What you choose to write about will reveal who you are, and how you choose to write tells the teacher something about your writing voice.

It would be nice to think you can just write whatever you want about yourself, but that would not necessarily be an essay.

A personal essay still needs to have a focus: what is it about? It won’t address everything about you. This is an essay, not a 20-volume encyclopedia.

A personal essay still needs to be organized. It needs to have a beginning, a middle, and an end. The reader should feel like they took a trip to a particular destination, not like they’re lost in the woods, wandering aimlessly.

A personal essay still needs to have developed characters. Characters? Yes. They don’t just appear in fiction. Whoever populates your essay – whether it’s just you, or you and your family, or you and your friends – they are considered characters, and they should be developed.

A personal essay still needs to have consistency in point of view and verb tense. This sounds more technical, but because you’ll be writing about yourself, you want to make sure your point of view remains consistent. Adopting the first-person point of view is perfectly acceptable. Write “I” all over the place! But don’t start referring to yourself as “she” or “he” halfway through, because that will confuse your reader. Also, keep your verb tenses consistent. Are you writing in the present tense? Be consistent. Are you writing in the past tense? Be consistent. Will you jump back and forth in time? Make sure you don’t lose your reader when you make those switches.

A personal essay still needs to make a point by the end. Reflect on what this all meant. Why did you choose to write about this ? Let’s say you write about your relationship with your grandmother. At the end of the essay, your reader should understand what was important about your relationship with her. How did she impact you? How is your life different, better, sweeter because of your relationship with her? Make sure your essay answers those questions for your readers.

Since a personal essay is, you know, personal, it’s better to choose a topic that resonates with you. If the topic makes you feel meh , don’t choose that one! Don’t like any of these? Choose something else that you want to share!

For each of these topics, you can write about something positive or negative, as long as it was meaningful to you:

Your relationship with a family member
Your relationship with a friend or loved one
An animal, such as a pet, that affected you
A place where you felt comfortable
A place where you felt uncomfortable
An experience you had growing up
A situation that didn’t turn out the way you expected
A difficult lesson you learned
A strong belief you have
A goal you accomplished with hard work

Published September 7, 2020.

By Halina Stolar. Halina has a master’s degree in teaching and taught English as a Second Language and writing for almost 15 years overseas. She now works as a freelance writer and geeks out over grammar for fun.

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How to Write a Personal Essay: Your Easy Guide

The power of a well-written personal essay should never be underestimated. Inspiring readers with your experiences, lessons learned from past mistakes, or simply describing the joy you felt from doing a fun activity can literally change people's lives. Take a moment to reflect upon this. How much influence you can have on your audience with just a pen and paper in your hand and thoughts flowing through your head is insane.

To take the reins of your floating thoughts and put them into perspective, you need to know how to write a personal essay. Otherwise defined as a nonfiction narrative story, the personal essay format differs slightly from other kinds of writing with its implicit structure. Once we touch upon those, we will also explore some personal essay topics with our online essay writing service . After reading this article, we promise you'll be so confident writing your personal statement that you might want to craft many personal essays in one go!

What is a Personal Essay?

A personal essay is a type of autobiographical writing where the author shares a meaningful personal experience. Typically assigned in high school and college courses, these essays are also required for college applications, graduate programs, or job applications.

The main goal of a personal essay is to reveal aspects of the author's life and personality through storytelling. By recounting a pivotal event or experience, the writer aims to connect with the reader and convey a deeper understanding of who they are. For applicants, these essays serve as a way to showcase their unique qualities and persuade admissions officers or employers of their suitability.

Personal essays vary widely in content and style, reflecting the diversity of human experiences. They can explore a range of topics, from reflections on personal growth to poignant moments of realization. What distinguishes a personal essay is its emphasis on the author's subjective perspective and the significance of the story being told.

Notable examples of personal essays include Robert Louis Stevenson's "An Apology for Idlers," where he muses on the value of leisure; Zora Neale Hurston's "How It Feels to Be Colored Me," which explores identity and race; and F. Scott Fitzgerald's "What I Think and Feel at 25," a reflective piece on youth and aspirations.

In crafting a personal essay, it's key for the writer to stay focused on the intended purpose: to reveal something meaningful about themselves through a compelling narrative. Whether for academic assignments or application processes, these essays offer a unique opportunity to share personal stories that resonate with readers and leave a lasting impression.

What Do You Write in a Personal Essay?

In a personal essay, the content revolves around sharing a significant personal experience that has had a profound impact on the writer's life. Here's a breakdown of what to consider when writing a personal essay:

Choose a Compelling Topic : Select an experience or event that is meaningful and memorable. This could be a moment of personal growth, a challenge overcome, a cultural experience, or a significant relationship.
Craft a Narrative : Create a personal essay structure like a story, with a clear beginning, middle, and end. Introduce the situation or event, develop the narrative with details and reflections, and conclude with insights gained or lessons learned.
Reflect and Analyze : Beyond recounting the events, reflect on why this experience is significant to you. What did you learn about yourself or others? How did this experience shape your beliefs, values, or future goals?
Be Honest and Authentic : Personal essays thrive on authenticity. Write openly about your thoughts, feelings, and reactions to the experience. Avoid exaggeration or embellishment; instead, focus on conveying genuine emotions and insights.
Showcase Your Voice : Personal essays are an opportunity to showcase your unique perspective and voice. Use descriptive language, anecdotes, and personal observations to engage the reader and convey the impact of the experience on your life.
Consider the Audience : Whether you're writing for a class assignment, college application, or job application, consider the expectations and interests of your audience. Tailor your essay to resonate with them while staying true to your own story.
Edit and Revise : After drafting your essay, revise it for clarity, coherence, and impact. Check for grammar and punctuation errors, and ensure that your essay flows smoothly from start to finish.

Proper Format

Now that you know what is a personal essay, let’s start with the formatting specifics. The format for personal essay can be similar to most academic tasks with just a few distinct aspects. Let's examine the details from our paper writer :

🖋️Font	Use any readable fonts - Times New Roman, Arial, or Calibri in size 12.
📏Margins	Just like in most writings, set your margins to one inch on all sides.
📄Spacing	This is a classic! Use double-spacing throughout the essay, including between paragraphs.
📎Indentation	Indent the first line of each paragraph by 0.5 inches or use the tab key.
🔢Page numbers	Include page numbers in the top right corner of each page.
📚Title	Include a title that reflects the theme or subject of your essay. Center the title on the page.
📰Header	Include a header with your last name and the page number in the top right corner of each page.
📏Length	The length of a personal essay can vary but typically ranges from 500 to 2,000 words.
😇Tone	The tone of a personal essay should be conversational, reflective, and sincere.
🧍Personal pronouns	Use first-person pronouns such as 'I,' 'me,' and 'my.' Remember, the spotlight is directed at you as you're the true hero of the story.

If you’re required to write an essay using Harvard essay format , check out our detailed guide for an easy understanding.

Personal Essay Topics

If you have got a lot of exciting stories to tell, your personal essay can shine brightly by interactively engaging the reader. Put in a little extra effort and dig deeper to find a unique or interesting experience or an unusual moment in your life.

Looking at a life lesson from another angle can turn into deep and purposeful subject matter. If you decide to pick a topic from a huge list of personal essay topics that you found on the internet, be precise and careful because not all of them can meet the requirements of your professor.

Personal Narrative Essay Topics

In this type of writing, try to explore a unique experience that creates a sense of conflict in your life. Explore how and why you were confused, annoyed, or hurt by the experience. Imagine your piece of paper as a place where you can freely express your emotions, discuss significant moments, & reflect on their impact on your life. This tip can help you create many really good essay topics, but if you need motivation, you can find some examples below.

'One small step that helped me skyrocket in my career!'
'Why controlling urges teaches you to master self-control.'
'People only learn from their own mistakes.'
'Life is not a one-dimensional path: it is curvier than a snake!'
'What I learned about conquering my fears.'
'The moment when I should have made a better choice.'
'The moment I overcame my public speaking fear.'
'How I conquered adversity with strength.'
'The impact of mentorship: valuable lessons learned from my mentor.'
'My journey to finding a place to belong.'

Personal Essay Topics on Specific Emotions

You may also talk about a specific event in your life that left a long-lasting impression on you. Usually, this type of essay reflects an incident that took place in your life and shifted it in some way. Dive deeper into your mind and find an event that is unique and personal to you. The weirder the occurrence, the more likely the essay will be engaging to read.

'How I ran away from fear: the power of exercising.'
'How I overcame the trauma through painting.'
'My quest to reclaim my cultural identity
'How I tackled cultural shock while studying abroad.'
'The year I went from being an amateur to a professional artist.'
'The best solo hike of my life
'The moment I beat my eating disorder and learned to love my true self.'
'How practicing gratitude helped me find beauty in the ordinary.'
'The power of letting go of toxic relationships
'How I lived up to my family's legacy.'

If you have not noticed, each of these titles can bring a fascinating vibe to the table. The names grab your attention, but you can only honestly know what they are about when reading them. That is the secret to a provocative title!

Cultural Identity and Heritage

How family traditions shaped my cultural identity.
My experience celebrating a traditional festival from my culture.
Challenges and benefits of growing up in a multicultural household.
How learning my native language has influenced my identity.
Exploring my ancestral roots through genealogy research.
Cultural stereotypes I've encountered and how they've affected me.
Attending cultural events or ceremonies that are important to my heritage.
How studying abroad influenced my understanding of my own culture.
The influence of art or literature from my culture on my personal beliefs.
Navigating the intersection of different cultural identities (e.g., biracial, bicultural).

Relationships and Connections

A memorable romantic proposal or gesture that impacted our relationship.
Lessons learned from a mentor or role model in my life.
Dealing with cultural differences in relationships with friends or partners.
A significant friendship that has shaped who I am today.
Reconnecting with a family member after a long period of estrangement.
How a long-distance relationship challenged and strengthened my connection with someone.
The dynamics of sibling relationships in my family.
How volunteering or community involvement has deepened my relationships.
A falling-out with a friend and the lessons learned from the experience.
The impact of a teacher or coach who believed in me during a challenging time.

Challenges and Resilience

How I overcame a significant health crisis or injury.
Ways I coped with the loss of a loved one and how it changed my perspective on life.
Moving to a new country or city and adapting to a different culture.
How I survived a natural disaster or traumatic event and rebuilt my life.
Balancing academic or career challenges with personal goals and well-being.
Overcoming a fear or phobia that held me back for a long time.
Dealing with financial hardship and how it shaped my priorities.
How I advocated for myself or others in the face of injustice or discrimination.
Learning a new skill or achieving a personal goal despite initial setbacks.
How I overcame a period of self-doubt and found strength in resilience strategies.

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Crafting an Outline for Personal Essay

Like most academic tasks, the personal essay can be easily structured into 5 paragraphs . This is one of the most important steps of personal narrative essay writing at any level. Your outline for personal essay will serve as a navigator, so you don't want to get off track. Understanding how to start personal essay, what to write in body paragraphs, and how to conclude it appropriately will be important.

Personal Essay Introduction

Start your writing with an introductory paragraph. As it gives your reader a clear understanding of what the story will be about. Employ a hook sentence to catch their attention and motivate them to read the rest of the paper with a whimsical thesis statement. It can be a narrative thesis, for example. But it must be written in one concise sentence that will bring the reader to the starting point of your essay.

Don't leave your readers in the dark in the introduction by explaining the important things such as:

Who are the major characters?
When and where is it taking place?
What kind of story is it?

Here are some how to start a personal essay examples:

In the heart of bustling Tokyo, amidst the neon lights and throngs of commuters, I found myself unexpectedly lost in a labyrinth of narrow streets and unfamiliar faces. It was here, in the chaotic vibrancy of Shinjuku, that I discovered a deeper connection to my Japanese heritage, navigating not only the city's geography but also my own cultural identity.

Standing at the edge of the Grand Canyon, the vast expanse of ancient rock and winding Colorado River below, I felt a surge of exhilaration and fear mingle within me. This monumental landscape not only challenged my fear of heights but also invited me to contemplate the sheer scale of nature's beauty and my place within it.

Personal Essay Body

After creating an introduction, you must formulate three body paragraphs supporting your thesis statement. Each new point should contain its own body paragraph. Don't forget to make transitions from one paragraph to another to make sure that everything flows smoothly.

Usually, the body section is presented in the form of your experiences and your reflections on these events. You should also note the passage of time in your body sections, so make sure that the reader is aware of when and how each specific chapter took place.

How to Write a Conclusion Paragraph for Personal Essay?

Ultimately, it will be essential to wrap everything up and give your audience a sense of completeness by writing a proper conclusion. Restate your thesis, summarize the main points you have stated in body paragraphs, and leave your reader with a specific emotion, depending on the subject of your paper.

Readers should also discover a life lesson by going through the story. It is a moment where you show what you have learned from your experiences or how previous events have changed your life.

Tips for Personal Essay Writing Process

If you think you already possess sufficient knowledge of personal essays, we've yet to supply you with more information. Now let's explore the various stages of personal essay writing. Follow the list of valuable tips and advice without skipping a beat from our service where you can buy personal statement too.

Start with an Engaging Opening Sentence

Open your personal essay with an introductory section that will be engaging and interesting for your reader. In the opening section, introduce the principal characters of the story as well as the central theme or themes. It should also present the fundamental question of the essay.

Write from Your Unique Point of View

You are free to write from your point of view or in your own unique style. In contrast to other types of essays, writing from your perspective or in your personal manner is welcomed. For instance, if you are writing about a trip adventure, you might express your individual writing style by describing the sights and sounds that captured your attention. As a result, your writing will be more interesting and genuine and will better convey your experiences and feelings.

Take the Characters into Account

Be sure to describe your characters from all angles. Even though it is your real-life experience, you should still consider storytelling elements like the plot and characters. Using these ingredients in your writing will keep your reader engaged and help your essay flow smoothly.

Shed Light on a Deep Truth

Discuss your background experience with honesty and curiosity. Don't be afraid to uncover a hidden truth or a truth you didn't know was there at the time. Expose a thing that is uncomfortable or difficult for you to discuss. No matter who will read your essay. Whether it will be a teacher or somebody else, they will definitely appreciate your honesty and strive to share your experience.

Write a Rough Draft & Submit

After you have completed all the previous steps, it's time to write a rough draft. Writing a rough draft lets you get new ideas for a personal essay. Moreover, it's a great place to polish your essay and correct small grammar, spelling, and other types of mistakes. Get a second pair of eyes: No one can rate your writing as well as a neutral party. Once you have checked everything, you can start writing the final paper.

Before submitting your personal essay, double-check everything once again and make sure to present the central theme. After it, go through it and proofread your entire piece. Reading an essay full of grammatical mistakes is somewhat frustrating, which can be easily avoided. You can ask your classmate for help, so in that way, you will save each other. Don't forget to meet the deadline - and you're officially finished!

Personal Essay Examples

In our time it’s much more easier to find things on the Internet, and examples are not an exception. Remember one simple thing: not everything that you can find on the Internet is done correctly. If you need some inspiration to get started, you can find several examples of personal essays below, or you can use our free essay samples to sharpen your skills on any type of writing.

As we scratched the surface of the personal essay writing process and delved deep into the specific stages of creating a flawless paper, we hope you gained some valuable insights. These tips are all you'll ever need to inspire readers or even WOW the admissions officers!

If you want our experienced writers to help you with any writing assignment, whether a persuasive essay , creative nonfiction, or any type of college essay, hit us up with your ' do my homework for me ' request and consider it done with the highest caliber!

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How Do I Write a Personal Essay?

What are examples of personal essay, what are the elements of a good personal essay.

Daniel Parker

is a seasoned educational writer focusing on scholarship guidance, research papers, and various forms of academic essays including reflective and narrative essays. His expertise also extends to detailed case studies. A scholar with a background in English Literature and Education, Daniel’s work on EssayPro blog aims to support students in achieving academic excellence and securing scholarships. His hobbies include reading classic literature and participating in academic forums.

is an expert in nursing and healthcare, with a strong background in history, law, and literature. Holding advanced degrees in nursing and public health, his analytical approach and comprehensive knowledge help students navigate complex topics. On EssayPro blog, Adam provides insightful articles on everything from historical analysis to the intricacies of healthcare policies. In his downtime, he enjoys historical documentaries and volunteering at local clinics.

Updated existing information
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Personal Narrative Essays . (n.d.). https://www.sjsu.edu/writingcenter/docs/handouts/Personal%20Narrative%20Essays.pdf
Pavic, H. (2023, November 14). Crafting Compelling Personal Essays . Lakewood University. https://lakewood.edu/2023/11/crafting-compelling-personal-essays/#/

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The Ultimate Guide to Personal Essay Writing

Personal essay is not about college admission only:

Twain, Hemingway, Fitzgerald, and other famous essayists wrote them often to share their experiences, thoughts, and reflections. Some employers ask candidates to write personal essays before inviting them to a job interview. And even when you share a story in your blog, you write a somewhat personal essay, telling your followers about your experience.

But more often than not, a search intent of most students googling the information about these essays is about how to write a personal statement for college. Right?

So, here we are!

In this ultimate guide, you’ll find everything about personal essay writing: what topics to choose for it, how to outline and format it, how to write it step by step, and what examples to consider for writing a stellar essay about yourself.

Table of Contents:

What is a personal essay?
How to start a personal essay
Personal essay outline
Personal essays conclusions
Personal essay topics
Personal statement for college: format
Personal essay examples

What is a Personal Essay?

A personal essay is a type of creative nonfiction serving to describe the author’s life experience and lessons (conclusions) he or she has made after it.

Reasons for personal essay writing can be different.

Fiction and nonfiction writers craft them to share stories, enlighten or inspire the audience, or warn others to avoid their mistakes. As to students, they write this essay when entering college or university: Officers ask applicants to write a personal statement (college admission essay) to get the idea of their worldview, critical thinking, and communication skills.

As a rule, such essays describe some event in your life that was significant to you and influenced your personality development. You write it from a first-person perspective and in a conversational tone to create a connection with your reader.

But for all that, personal essays have a definite structure. As well as other essay types, they need an introduction , a few paragraphs body, and a powerful conclusion to impress readers. Also, your personal narrative essay should have a clear objective: It explains to admissions officers why you would be an excellent fit for their college or university .

The importance of writing a personal essay

A student needs to be able to create a personal essay because it is an opportunity to talk about yourself and show your skills and abilities. It is also an excellent method to show you can learn from mistakes and analyze actions or events. Such works are valued among teachers and allow them to make the correct opinion about you, especially if it is an admission essay. Therefore, the skill of writing a good personal essay is essential and requires a high level of concentration. Try to learn more information from our material, and you will be able to write such papers without any problems.

How to Write a Personal Essay

For those wondering how to write a personal statement for college, there’s #1 rule to remember:

Despite its conversational tone, it should have a definite structure. The standard length here is five paragraphs, though your essay can be longer or shorter if still containing all primary sections. These sections are:

Introduction. This is the first paragraph of your article, with a hook and a thesis statement you will describe and prove in the essay body.
Body. It’s your story itself, with its points and evidence supporting your thesis statement. Here you explain how this or that event shaped your perspective and share your reflections on the lessons learned.
Conclusion. It’s the last paragraph, restating your thesis and telling the moral of your story. Here you say why your essay matters and sum up the things you want others to take away from your personal narrative essay.

Need more details on how to write an essay about yourself? Check our most detailed guide on how to write a personal essay .

How to Start a Personal Essay

In the first paragraph of your personal narrative essay , you need to capture the reader’s attention. Use a writing hook but avoid cliches like opening your article with a famous yet overused quote.

The introductory paragraph of your essay also needs to provide a personal statement you will explain and prove in the body paragraphs. Do your best to give some background on the topic, and make sure to finish the paragraph with a transition (a bridge) to the essay body.

Hint: Don’t reveal all the information in the essay introduction! It’s like with spoilers: Who will spend time reading your long story if you tell everything in the intro?

Further reading: How to Start a College Essay

Personal Essay Outline

When it comes to essay outlines, a student considers a type of writing he needs to cover (whether it’s persuasive , expository , critical , or other) and then comes up with structuring all the elements his essay should contain.

When it comes to personal essays, an outline is essential too. Yes, this writing is about telling a story from a first-person perspective; but, let’s face it, how often did you listen to someone who wanted to tell a story but this story seemed to have no point?

It’s all about a story structure. College essays include all the elements of storytelling (a plot, setting, characters, a conflict, and moral), and an outline will help you organize the story so you wouldn’t miss any core element when writing.

In other words, it’s a plan or a map of your personal essay.

You start with a hook and a statement, then introduce a character (yourself) and the sequence of events that happened to you, support your statement, describe a conflict, and come to a conclusion.

A college essay is like a fiction story, with its rising action, turning point, and conflict resolution. Your task here is to evoke an emotional response from readers but, for all that, follow the essay structure.

Personal Essays Conclusions

The last paragraph of an essay is a resolution of the whole story. Here you summarize what you’ve learned from the experience you described in the essay and what you’d like readers to understand.

A personal essay conclusion needs to have the following elements:

A thesis restatement
Main points (what you, an author, learned from the experience you described; why your story matters)
A call to action for readers (what they can learn from your story)

Finish with the moral of the story, but do your best to end on a positive note. It will help readers feel inspired and make your essay more memorable.

Personal Essay Topics

As far as this essay is personal, it’s you, its author, who determines the topic.

Personal essay topics can be about everything related to you, but, at the same time, they need to be specific about who you are. Feel free to write about the first time you failed the test, an award you won, a professor who changed your mind about books or essay writing , etc.

Please feel free to write about your friend or relative who influenced your worldview or made you feel different about something. You can tell about a creative genius who changed your mindset or plans for the future. Long story short, any moment or persona in your life that changed you in some way can become a core topic of a college essay.

Also, please note that the experience you choose to describe in an essay doesn’t have to be positive only. Don’t be afraid to share a tragedy or some negative moment that influenced you anyway.

The best essay topics are always those profoundly relatable. Write about facing a fear, discovering something, falling in love, making a difficult choice, overcoming obstacles… The moments happening in everyone’s life and communicating some universal truth are what you need for a college essay to succeed.

Find out the details: Check our list of personal essay topics and learn how to choose them for your story.

Personal Statement for College: Format

A personal essay format looks like a structure of most standard five-paragraph essays. You start with an introduction, then craft a three-paragraph body telling your story, and finally wrap up the piece with a conclusion. Doesn’t seem difficult, right?

But given that this type of essays reminds a narrative, it also needs to be formatted with all elements of storytelling in mind. They are what make your personal statement powerful and memorable, as well as allow you to stand out from the crowd of other applicants in college.

Here at Bid4Papers, professional writers help students craft a format that makes their stories stand out. Yet, if you don’t want to ask anyone for help, feel free to check our detailed guide on personal essay formatting:

Follow these tips when writing a personal essay

The experts have presented the best personal essay guidelines to help you cope with the task and get a high grade. Here is your future algorithm of actions:

Prepare yourself. Remember that definition of personal essay requires you to create a research paper about your personal experiences. Set yourself a goal to stick to for the duration of the assignment.
Organize your work. In this step, you must create a clear plan for your work. The more small sections you can break down your assignment into, the easier it will be for you to start writing it later. Keep a chronological sequence because this is essential for any personalized essay.
Choose the best topic. Try to use one of the popular topics or create your own. The main thing is that it coincides with your experience and knowledge. After all, the research paper will be about you; therefore, you must tell how the topic influenced or changed your worldview. Examples might include “How my friend influenced my life” or “What lessons have helped me decide on my future.” All personal essay formats will look better if you choose the right subject matter for your paper.
Consider the tone of the narrative. You need to think about the feelings you want to evoke in your audience. In a personal essay, it is crucial to present your personality correctly. It can be about your past experiences or, on the contrary, written with a retrospective on those events. Don’t forget about the correct verbs, and be mindful of tenses.
Include a moral in your paper. By all means, the student should write a moral or lesson learned from the story. Give food for thought to your readers based on your experiences and conclusions. For example, you may have overcome a challenge, learned something, become a leader, or realized your mistakes. These are all excellent morals that you can describe.

Next, you must write according to the structure we’ve given above in our material. These simple recommendations will make your personalized essays more exciting and correct. The main thing is to stick to the rules and write them in understandable language so that no one gets confused while reading.

Personal Essay Examples

It’s better to see once than hear twice, do you agree? We know that most students look for real college personal statement examples online, and many peers of theirs are ready to share samples for educational purposes.

With the help of these essay samples, high school graduates understand the assignment better and learn about how to write a college essay so that it would impress admissions officers. Essay examples also help to get an idea of the structure, storytelling components, and plot twists to consider when you craft your own writing piece.

But Bid4Papers go to even greater extremes here:

We’ve not only gathered the best personal essay examples for you but also asked some admissions officers to share their advice on college essay writing. So, check the link below, and don’t hesitate to ask questions in the comment section if you have any.

Must-check: Best College Essays That Worked: Advice from Admissions Officers

And now, over to you:

Did we miss anything in this ultimate guide on personal essay writing? Is there anything else you’d like us to cover on the topic? Our writers are open to all the questions and suggestions you might have. <3

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Netanyahu’s Spat With Biden Echoes Dispute With Israel’s Security Chiefs

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Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu sits in a cream chair next to President Biden inside the White House.

A dispute between Netanyahu and Israel’s security chiefs spills into public view.

A quarrel between President Biden and Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu over Israel’s approach to cease-fire talks mirrors growing domestic tensions between Mr. Netanyahu and senior Israeli security officials over his perceived resistance to a swift deal with Hamas.

Mr. Biden has publicly chided Mr. Netanyahu for failing to agree to another truce in Gaza. Senior leaders from Israel’s military and intelligence agencies have also privately grown frustrated with the prime minister for introducing new conditions to the fraught negotiations, according to two Israeli officials who spoke on the condition of anonymity to discuss a sensitive matter.

For weeks, the security officials have privately complained that Mr. Netanyahu is holding up talks by, among other things, reintroducing a demand that Israel continue to operate checkpoints along a strategic highway in northern Gaza during any cease-fire. In May, Israel had softened its position on that point, raising hopes of a deal.

Over the weekend, the previously private gripes gained a public airing when a major Israeli news network, Channel 12, broadcast accounts of leaked arguments between Mr. Netanyahu and the chiefs of Israel’s foreign and domestic intelligence agencies, Mossad and Shin Bet.

Channel 12 reported that the chiefs accused Mr. Netanyahu of blocking the deal, while the prime minister was said to have accused them of being weak negotiators.

Mr. Netanyahu has blamed Hamas’s intransigence for stalling the negotiations, rather than his own, citing his decision to send negotiators to Cairo over the weekend to continue the talks. But he did not deny private disputes with his security chiefs, complaining only that the leaked reports were themselves harmful to the negotiations.

“The fact is that it is Hamas which is preventing the release of our hostages, and which continues to oppose the outline, and not the government of Israel, which has accepted it,” Mr. Netanyahu told ministers at the start of a cabinet meeting on Sunday. Hamas has repeatedly denied the claim.

There is less debate within the Israeli establishment about the merits of assassinating Ismail Haniyeh, the Hamas leader and top truce negotiator, who was killed in Iran last week.

Mr. Biden’s frustration with Mr. Netanyahu is in part related to the assassination, which the U.S. president said had “not helped” the prospects of a cease-fire agreement.

But among Israeli security officials, the prevailing assessment is that a deal could still be reached within days if Mr. Netanyahu set aside some of his conditions, according to the two Israeli officials who spoke on the condition of anonymity.

To many Israelis, Mr. Haniyeh was seen as a liaison to his more powerful colleagues in Gaza rather than a decision maker in his own right, and he did not have the final say over Hamas’s position on a cease-fire.

Mr. Netanyahu and his supporters argue that Israel should not rush into a cease-fire that could allow Hamas to survive the war intact, and that would also require Israel to release hundreds of Hamas prisoners in exchange for the Israeli hostages seized during the Oct. 7 attack.

The prime minister “deserves special appreciation” for his position, Ariel Kahana, a commentator for Israel Hayom, a leading right-wing newspaper, wrote in a column last week. “Hamas still controls Gaza and so, if the war ends, and certainly if it is reinforced by hundreds of released terrorists, it will immediately begin to regroup militarily,” Mr. Kahana said.

But to his critics, Mr. Netanyahu is holding out for personal reasons rather than patriotic ones.

Mr. Netanyahu’s ruling coalition depends on far-right lawmakers who have said they will leave the coalition if he agrees a deal that would allow Hamas to survive. Since Hamas has rejected a temporary truce, Mr. Netanyahu must therefore choose between a deal and the stability of his government.

“If it is left up to Netanyahu, the war will never end,” Sima Kadmon, a critic of the prime minister’s, wrote in a column on Monday.

To ease his predicament, Mr. Netanyahu wants Mr. Biden to provide a written guarantee that he would support an Israeli resumption of fighting if Hamas reneged on its cease-fire commitments, according to the two Israeli officials. The hope is that such a side-agreement would enable Mr. Netanyahu to convince his coalition partners that a cease-fire might be temporary, potentially allowing him to keep his coalition together.

If Mr. Netanyahu’s government collapses, Israel would likely face early elections that Mr. Netanyahu would struggle to win, according to most polling since late last year. And losing office would heighten his political and legal vulnerabilities: He is currently standing trial on corruption on charges that he has denied.

One U.S. official, speaking on the condition of anonymity to discuss sensitive diplomacy, declined to comment on the idea of Mr. Biden providing a written guarantee. But the official said that a draft of the cease-fire deal already contained safeguards that would allow Israel to walk away from the truce if Hamas broke its terms.

Israel’s military leadership lacks Mr. Netanyahu’s political considerations and has privately determined that a hostage deal must be finalized as soon as possible in order to save the hostages’ lives. While the military has rescued some hostages through raids and rescue operations, top generals concluded weeks ago that further military action to free them may run the risk of killing the others.

More than 100 Israelis, both dead and alive, remain in Gaza, and at least 30 would be released within weeks under the likely terms of a cease-fire deal.

Military leaders also want to focus their energy, resources and troops on Israel’s border with Lebanon, instead of on Gaza. The likelihood of an all-out war with Hezbollah, a Lebanese militia, rose sharply last month after a deadly strike from Lebanon killed 12 children and teenagers, leading Israel to assassinate a top Hezbollah commander.

On Monday, Israelis were braced for aggressive retaliation from Hezbollah, which many fear will prompt a broader war, particularly with Iran, Hezbollah’s benefactor, also poised to strike Israel in response to Mr. Haniyeh’s assassination.

Mediators hope that a truce in Gaza would prompt a similar cease-fire in Lebanon. Hezbollah has said it will keep firing as long as the Gaza war continues.

Myra Noveck and Johnatan Reiss contributed reporting from Jerusalem, and Peter Baker from Washington.

— Patrick Kingsley reporting from Jerusalem

Key Developments

Israel’s defense minister says country must be ‘prepared for anything,’ and other news.

Israel’s defense minister, Yoav Gallant, visited a command center on Monday amid the threats from Iran to retaliate over the killing in Tehran of a Hamas leader, Ismail Haniyeh. “We must be prepared for anything — including a swift transition to offense,” he said, according to a government statement.” In a separate statement, the Israeli government said Mr. Gallant had spoken overnight to Defense Secretary Lloyd J. Austin III and briefed him on the country’s “readiness to defend Israel against potential threats posed by Iran and its proxies.”

The American general in charge of Central Command arrived in Israel for meetings with Israeli military leaders to prepare for an expected attack from Iran and its proxies, chief among them Hezbollah in Lebanon, the Israeli military said. The U.S. commander, Gen. Michael Erik Kurilla, met with the Israeli chief of the general staff, Herzi Halevi, for “a joint situational assessment on security and strategic issues.”

A leading Israeli human rights organization says in a new report that the abuse and torture of Palestinians in Israeli prisons has become widespread and systematic since last October, turning the prisons “a network of torture camps.” The rights group, B’Tselem, collected testimony from more than four dozen Palestinians who had been incarcerated after Oct. 7. The Israeli Prison Service did not immediately respond to a request for comment on the report. Last week, U.N. human rights office published its own report detailing “appalling acts” in Israeli prisons, including “waterboarding and the release of dogs on detainees.”

Israel returned 80 bodies to Gaza in a shipping container on Monday, according to the Palestinian Civil Defense and news agency photos from the scene. The remains were largely unidentifiable and Israeli authorities gave no information about where or when they had died, a Civil Defense official told Agence France-Presse. The bodies were immediately buried in a mass grave in the southern city of Khan Younis, the Civil Defense said. The Israeli military did not respond to a request for comment.

Hezbollah and Israel continued to trade cross-border fire on Monday, with an Israeli airstrike killing two people in southern Lebanon, according to Lebanon’s Ministry of Health. The attacks did not appear to be part of a major retaliation that Hezbollah has threatened in the wake of an Israeli strike that killed one of the group’s senior commanders in a suburb of Beirut last week. The World Health Organization said it had delivered 32 tons of emergency medical supplies to Lebanon in case of a wider escalation.

Ten ultra-Orthodox men who were protesting their conscription into the army were arrested on Monday outside an army recruitment office near Tel Aviv, the police said. “Hundreds of protesters who arrived with the aim of breaking into the military base confronted the policemen while throwing objects, trying to break through barriers and take down fences,” the police said in a statement, noting that three officers were slightly injured. The ultra-Orthodox, or Haredi, have been exempt from military service since the founding of Israel in 1948, a source of tension with secular Israelis who must serve. In June, the Israeli Supreme Court ordered the government to begin drafting the Haredi and not to extend exemptions.

A rocket attack at a base in Iraq injured American troops, U.S. defense officials said.

A rocket attack targeting U.S. personnel housed at a base in Iraq’s western desert injured several American troops late on Monday, according to U.S. defense officials.

The attack on Ain al Asad Air Base resembled previous ones carried out by Iran-backed Iraqi armed groups, which have targeted the base repeatedly over the past several years but intensified their attacks after Israel’s war with Hamas in Gaza began in October.

The latest attack involved at least two rockets that hit inside the base’s perimeter, according to a U.S. official and Iraqi witnesses near the site of the attack. The base had been targeted at least twice in the past three weeks, and there was also an attack late last month on a small U.S. base in eastern Syria where U.S. special operation forces work with Syrian Kurdish troops to tamp down the Islamic State.

Initial reports were that at least five people were injured in Monday’s attack and that the wounded included both U.S. troops and contractors.

The attack comes as tensions are running especially high in the region, with Israel and its American, European and regional allies bracing for a reprisal attack from Iran in response to the killings last week of a Hamas leader, Ismail Haniyeh , in Tehran, and a Hezbollah leader, Fuad Shukr , in the southern suburbs of Beirut.

Israel has said it carried out the attack on Mr. Shukr but has said nothing about the one in Iran. Iranian officials and Hamas have said that Israel was responsible for Mr. Haniyeh’s killing.

The Iranian government has said that any retaliatory attack will also involve its proxy forces , which include Hezbollah, the Houthis in Yemen and militants in Iraq.

Those Iraqi militants have typically attacked U.S. forces in Iraq and Syria and targeted Israel using longer-range rockets. The region has been on high alert for a broad onslaught, similar to Iran’s attack on Israel in April , which was in response to Israel’s killing of three senior leaders of Iran’s Revolutionary Guards Corps and four other Revolutionary Guard officers in Damascus, Syria.

It was not clear if the rocket attack on Monday at Al Asad Air Base was part of that response or a continuation of ongoing efforts by the Iran-backed groups in Iraq to target U.S. forces, who are stationed in the country at the invitation of the Iraqi government. The chief goal of Iran-backed groups in Iraq is to force the U.S. troops to leave the country entirely. No group has taken responsibility for Monday’s attack.

There is continuing negotiation between senior defense officials in Iraq and the Pentagon over how to reconfigure and downsize the U.S. and multinational forces, but they have not yet reached a decision. Within the Iraqi government, there is division, with factions close to Iran pushing for a speedy U.S. departure while others, including many Iraqi defense officials, are pushing for limited longer-term U.S. involvement.

There are about 2,500 American troops in Iraq, as well as 900 in Syria, where the Islamic State has once again become active.

The White House said in a statement that President Biden and Vice President Kamala D. Harris had been briefed on the attack and had discussed steps that the administration would take “to defend our forces and respond to any attack against our personnel in a manner and place of our choosing.”

After a July 16 drone attack on the U.S. area of the Ain al Asad base, which did not result in injuries, the U.S. military bombed a small drone factory in Jurf al Sakhar , an area south of Baghdad, which serves as a base for the Iranian-backed group Kata’ib Hezbollah and others. The U.S. attack killed four fighters — three Iraqis and a Houthi commander — at the site.

— Alissa J. Rubin and Helene Cooper Alissa J. Rubin reported from Erbil, Iraq, and Helene Cooper from Washington.

U.N. investigators conclude 9 UNRWA workers ‘may have been involved’ in the Oct. 7 attack, but 10 others are cleared.

U.N. investigators cleared 10 employees of a Palestinian refugee agency in Gaza accused of taking part in the Oct. 7 Hamas attack on Israel, but nine others were fired because of possible involvement, the United Nations said.

The investigators found evidence that the employees “may have been involved” in the attack, which set off the war in the Gaza Strip, the U.N. said. It said they had been fired “in the interests of the agency.”

The investigation’s conclusion appeared to bring to a close, for now at least, a controversy that began after Israel leveled the alarming accusations in January against the U.N. agency for Palestinian refugees, known as UNRWA. The allegations led dozens of donor nations to suspend hundreds of millions of dollars in funding for the agency, threatening to hobble its aid operations in Gaza.

With 13,000 staff members in the embattled territory, UNRWA has been key to efforts to provide shelter, food and other basic services to Gazans during nine months of war that has displaced most of the territory’s 2.2 million people. Tens of thousands have been killed, according to Gaza’s health authorities.

In recent months, most donor nations have resumed funding for the agency, citing its critical role in delivering aid to desperate Gazans, as well as the results of a separate U.N. investigation into UNRWA’s adherence to U.N. neutrality rules that was released in April. But one of its biggest funders, the United States, has not done so. U.S. lawmakers in March blocked all donations for one year.

In a statement on Monday, the agency’s head, Philippe Lazzarini, acknowledged the investigators’ findings and said that the nine employees who were deemed to have possibly participated in the attack “cannot work for UNRWA.”

“I reiterate UNRWA’s condemnation of the 7 October attack in the strongest possible terms,” he said.

The Israeli ambassador to the United Nations, Gilad Erdan, dismissed the report as “a disgrace,” calling it “too little and too late.” In a post on social media, Mr. Erdan accused the investigators of ignoring evidence Israel had provided and called for the agency to be shut down.

Mr. Lazzarini said the agency’s priority was to “continue lifesaving and critical services” for Palestinian refugees in Gaza and elsewhere in the Middle East, “especially in the face of the ongoing war, the instability and risk of regional escalation.”

Israel initially accused 12 UNRWA workers of involvement in the Oct. 7 attack, in which about 1,200 people were killed. In later months, seven other cases were added.

The investigation found no evidence against one of those employees and insufficient evidence against nine others, the U.N. said on Monday.

The Israeli accusations came against the backdrop of decades of friction with UNRWA, which the United Nations General Assembly created in 1949 to care for those displaced in the war surrounding Israel’s creation. More than 700,000 Palestinian Arabs fled or were forced from their homes in what became Israel, and the agency grants refugee status to them and their descendants, who now number nearly six million.

Although it has no official role in resolving the refugees’ plight, Palestinians have long seen it as their protector, and as proof that world powers remain invested in their fate.

Many Israelis, however, argue that the agency perpetuates the conflict by encouraging the belief in a Palestinian “right of return” to what is now Israel. That, critics say, would amount to a demographic threat that would destroy the Jewish state.

In addition to its accusations against individual staff members, Israeli officials have charged that UNRWA in Gaza has been deeply infiltrated by members of Hamas and other militant groups, an allegation agency officials deny.

The investigation whose results were released on Monday did not examine that broader issue, only looking into the allegations of involvement by individual employees in the Oct. 7 attack.

The earlier investigation, whose results were released in April , found that UNRWA had strong protocols for ensuring its neutrality but made a range of recommendations for how it could do better.

— Ben Hubbard and Ephrat Livni

Diplomacy intensifies as fears of a wider regional war loom.

A flurry of diplomatic efforts was underway on Monday aimed at containing the escalating tensions between Israel and Iran as fears grow of a widening conflict across the Middle East.

As war continues to rage in Gaza, the assassination of a senior Hamas leader, Ismail Haniyeh , last week in Tehran — which Iran and Hamas blamed on Israel — has intensified concerns among Arab and American officials that an even broader regional conflict could break out. Iran and militias it supports in the region have vowed to retaliate against Israel.

President Biden convened his national security team at the White House to discuss the crisis in the region on Monday and how America would respond.

Mr. Biden also telephoned with King Abdullah II of Jordan, a day after the Jordanian foreign minister, Ayman Safadi, traveled to Tehran for meetings with his Iranian counterpart. Jordan is a close Western ally and helped intercept Iranian missiles and drones in April during tit-for-tat attacks between Iran and Israel.

“Escalation is in no one’s interest,” Matthew Miller, the State Department spokesman, told reporters in a briefing on Monday. He added that the United States doesn’t consider escalation “inevitable” and is sending messages to Iran through its allies in the region that an attack would not serve Iranian interests, or the region’s.

“The leaders discussed their efforts to de-escalate regional tensions, including through an immediate cease-fire and hostage release deal,” a White House description of the call said.

Egypt’s foreign minister, Badr Abdelatty, spoke on the telephone with the American secretary of state, Antony J. Blinken, urging him to pressure Israel to “seriously engage” in cease-fire talks, the Egyptian foreign ministry said in a statement, according to Reuters news agency.

The Israeli prime minister, Benjamin Netanyahu, has come under fire from President Biden, publicly, and from senior leaders in Israel’s military and intelligence circles, privately, for failing to make concessions to reach a cease-fire agreement. Mr. Netanyahu has blamed Hamas, however, for the stalled talks.

The Egyptian statement came on a day when Mr. Adbelatty met with the Turkish foreign minister, Hakan Fidan, in Cairo to talk about the war in Gaza and efforts to halt a regional escalation.

Mr. Miller said that from the perspective of the United States, reaching a cease-fire agreement in Gaza is the best way to defuse the explosive tensions in the Middle East, and on Monday urged Israel and Hamas to “get to yes.”

On Wednesday, Foreign ministers from Islamic countries will meet in Saudi Arabia for an extraordinary meeting of the Organization of Islamic Cooperation that was called to discuss “the continued crimes of the Israeli occupation against the Palestinian people,” including Mr. Haniyeh’s assassination, the organization said in a statement .

Iran requested the meeting, according to the country’s foreign ministry spokesman, Nasser Kanaani. During a news conference in Tehran, Mr. Kanaani blamed Israel as the source of the escalating tensions in the region, according to the state-affiliated Iranian Students’ News Agency.

Israel has not confirmed or denied that it was behind Mr. Haniyeh’s assassination, which came less than a day after an Israeli strike killed a senior commander for Hezbollah , an Iran-backed militia in Lebanon, in a suburb of Beirut.

Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu of Israel said on Sunday that his country was engaged in “a multi-front war against Iran’s axis of evil,” and that it would “exact a heavy price for any act of aggression against us, from whatever quarter.”

But already, there are signs that the killing of Mr. Haniyeh — and fears of the retaliatory violence it could unleash — could push Gulf governments closer to Iran and further from Israel as they seek to de-escalate tensions that threaten their own security.

On Friday, Anwar Gargash, a senior adviser to the ruler of the United Arab Emirates, expressed his condolences to Mr. Haniyeh’s family members in a social media post , and thanked neighboring Qatar for hosting his funeral — an unusual statement from a government that despises Hamas and led a diplomatic push for Arab countries to establish relations with Israel.

“The Emirates rejects all forms of political violence and assassination,” Mr. Gargash wrote, adding that “there is no path to stability except through justice, wisdom and dialogue.”

Saudi Arabia re-established relations with Iran, its regional rival, last year, citing a desire to open direct channels of communication and reduce political tensions. The meeting of Islamic foreign ministers scheduled for Wednesday in Jeddah could showcase that trend, particularly if Iran and other countries in attendance issue a shared statement rebuking Israel.

Michael D. Shear and Ephrat Livni contributed reporting in Washington, D.C.

— Vivian Nereim Reporting from Riyadh, Saudi Arabia

Russian emissary visits Tehran at a tense moment as Iran asks for military aid.

A top Russian security official arrived in Tehran on Monday to meet with senior officials as Iran prepared to retaliate against Israel for the killing of Hamas’s political leader on Iranian soil last week, a provocation that has threatened to touch off a regional war.

The Russian official, Sergei K. Shoigu, met with Iran’s new president, Masoud Pezeshkian , and with the commander of the Iranian armed forces, Brig. Gen. Mohammad Bagheri, who is leading the planning for military strikes on Israel.

Mr. Shoigu, a former defense minister who is closely allied with President Vladimir V. Putin, also met with the secretary of Iran’s Supreme National Security Council.

Mr. Shoigu’s visit underscores the close alliance between Iran and Russia, which has strengthened since the war in Ukraine started in 2022. Iran has provided Russia with military drones, and the two countries recently finalized an agreement to expand their military and intelligence cooperation.

Iranian media reported that Iran has requested advanced air-defense systems from Russia as it prepares for a possible war with Israel.

Two Iranian officials familiar with the war planning, one a member of the Revolutionary Guards Corps, confirmed that Iran has made the request and said Russia has started delivering advanced radars and air-defense equipment. The officials spoke on the condition of anonymity because they were not authorized to discuss the aid publicly.

Iran’s supreme leader, Ayatollah Ali Khamenei, ordered a direct strike from Iran on Israel after the Hamas political leader, Ismail Haniyeh, was killed in an explosion at his guesthouse while he was visiting Iran for the new president’s inauguration.

American and Israeli officials have said that they expect Iran and its allied militant groups in the region to launch a large and coordinated attack on Israel. The groups, known as the “axis of resistance,” include Hezbollah in Lebanon and the Houthis in Yemen.

Iranian state television showed Mr. Shoigu and General Bagheri greeting each other, meeting one-on-one, then attending a larger meeting at a conference table with members of the Russian delegation and Iranian military officials.

“We are ready for full cooperation with Iran on regional issues,” Mr. Shoigu said, according to Iran’s state media.

General Bagheri told Mr. Shoigu that the relationship between their nations was “deep, long term and strategic,” and would only expand under Iran’s new government, according to Iranian media reports.

Even though Russia also has economic and cultural ties to Israel — a large number of Russian Jews live in Israel — analysts say that Russia can’t afford to turn down Iran’s requests for help, because it relies heavily on Iranian drones in Ukraine.

“If Iranians are asking Russians for air defense, they are cashing in their chips,” said Colin P. Clarke, director of policy and research at the Soufan Group, an intelligence and security consultancy. “The question is how do Russians assuage Tehran without ruining their relationship with Israel.”

— Farnaz Fassihi

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