Write an essay.
Executive summary
You asked for “Write an essay.” Most contemporary writing guides recommend the same core structure: a clear thesis, an introduction, body paragraphs that develop evidence and analysis, and a conclusion — guidance repeated across multiple 2025-focused resources [1] [2]. Practical aids — topic lists, step-by-step guides, and application-focused essays — offer angles and prompts you can use immediately (300+ topic ideas, admission-essay tips) [3] [4].
1. What “Write an essay” usually means — the basic blueprint
When instructors or guides say “write an essay,” they expect a focused piece with an introduction that contains a thesis, a main body organized into paragraphs each addressing one idea, and a conclusion that sums up the argument — this is the standard taught in academic resources like Scribbr and Purdue’s OWL [1] [5]. Style and citation specifics (APA, MLA, Chicago) vary by discipline, but the underlying composition patterns remain consistent in 2025 writing guides [6].
2. Practical steps you can follow right now
Start by choosing a clear topic (use lists or brainstorming), develop a single-sentence thesis, then outline three to five supporting points and assign evidence or examples to each — advice reflected in multiple how-to guides and “ultimate” essay primers published for 2025 [7] [6]. After drafting, revise for clarity, remove jargon, read aloud to catch awkward phrasing, and proofread for mechanics — editing strategies commonly recommended by college-focused guides [8].
3. Where to find topics and prompts that actually work
If you need inspiration, curated topic lists save time: one resource assembled 300+ essay ideas sorted by type and level, and explicitly warns against overused or purely factual topics that lack argumentative scope [3]. For applicants, supplemental and college-advice sites give prompt-specific strategies — for example, guidance for NYU and Harvard supplements that emphasize authentic, specific stories rather than generic claims [4] [9].
4. Common pitfalls and how sources tell you to avoid them
Multiple guides flag predictable mistakes: choosing a topic with no research base, writing in the order research was discovered, and leaning on clichés or empty claims [3] [10]. Academic guides advise ordering explanatory paragraphs before detailed proofs and to “one sentence = one thought” for clarity — concrete editing rules that reduce rambling and improve reader comprehension [10].
5. Variation by genre and purpose — don’t treat every essay the same
Essay types differ: descriptive, narrative, expository, and argumentative pieces each require different emphases (modes of discourse) — a central taxonomy used by Purdue OWL and echoed across composition handbooks [5]. College personal statements require narrative and reflection; academic essays often prioritize evidence and counter-argument; contest or creative essays reward voice and craft [9] [11].
6. Tools and services — useful but check incentives
Many guides and commercial sites offer turnkey help — AI essay writers, paid topic shortlists, and editing services appear throughout the 2025 landscape [2] [3] [7]. These tools speed production but carry implicit incentives to sell additional services; the sources note both convenience and the marketing angle embedded in some platforms [2] [7].
7. How to tailor an essay for competitive contexts (applications, contests)
Application guides stress authenticity and contribution: NYU’s supplemental advice frames optional prompts as effectively required for serious applicants because many competitive candidates submit polished supplements [4]. Writing-challenge and contest pages set strict word limits and submission rules, so follow formatting and length rules exactly to be considered [11].
8. Quick template you can apply in 30–90 minutes
One reliable method distilled from the guides: pick a topic; write a one-sentence thesis; list three supporting points with one example each; draft a two-paragraph intro/body, expand each point into a paragraph, then write a conclusion echoing the thesis and take-away — then revise for unity and proofread [1] [10].
Limitations and sourcing note: This analysis synthesizes 2025-era guides, topic lists, and college-admissions advice found in the provided sources. Available sources do not mention specific grading rubrics for your class or instructor preferences — for those, consult your syllabus or teacher directly [10] [4].