Types of Academic Writing

Academic writing is a common feature in academic settings. Students in colleges and universities are often required to present papers and essays to fulfill their academic obligations. Projects, business plans, research reports, and many other details are required in the testing process. However, it is important to note that there are various types of academic writing. Not all assignments are presented in a similar manner. Normally, these papers differ based on the course and the specific requirements presented by the instructor. It is necessary to understand the difference. The following are the main types of academic writing.

Research Papers

These papers are based on original research. They have specific topics that must be analyzed and written about in detail. These types of papers tend to have varied structures based on the course, discipline, or subject that is under review. Analysis and proper interpretation are vital aspects of research papers in many cases. Research papers can either be master’s theses, term papers, or doctoral dissertations.

Narrative or Personal Essays

Narrative essays are in many cases told based on a certain pre-determined point of view. The author has to present his or her own views on the topic and argue from a personalized point of view. With that being the case, there are feelings that are involved in this type of writing. Sensory details are often provided in order to ensure that the reader is involved in the entire sequence of the story. In the course of writing these types of essays, verbs are very precise and vivid. Moreover, the story must have a point that makes sense.

Descriptive Essays

Just as the term implies, these are essays that focus on describing places, people, and other aspects. The essay can focus on forests, beaches, about prominent people, situations or adventures. Contrary to common perceptions, these are not the simplest of essays. They have to entail specific descriptions and mostly to people that have no idea about the feature that is being written about. In essence, when someone is writing a descriptive essay about a forest, the reader should be able to get a very clear picture of the forest and what it entails.

Argumentative Essays

These are some of the most common types of essays. The essays in this category are aimed at convincing readers about a specific opinion or idea. In the end, the information should be presented in a very clear manner with the aim of making sure that the point has been sent across. Arguments, in this case, are skills that have to be applied with a focus on research-based evidence. Facts should be presented logically so that the final argument is convincing and clear.

Persuasive Essays

These essays are also referred to as argument essays. The main aim of this type of essay is to persuade the reader to take up a given point of view or to take a certain action. The argument that is presented in this context should make use of sound reasoning and evidence. This is often done by stating the relevant factors, providing logical reasons, quoting experts, and using examples. There is a certain approach that should be used in the process of trying to convince the other party. The most vital aspect is to tell the right story and convince the reader to take a given perspective or point of view.

Cause and Effect Essays

These are essays that focus on the causes and effects of various actions in the course of life. These essays focus on indicating whether or not the essay is to focus on the causes or the effects as outlined in the initial thesis of the essay. There are different ways of stating these theses. Both the causes and effects can be outlined. However, there is no imposed aspect regarding the aspects that should be focused upon the most.

Compare and Contrast Essays

The main aim of compare and contrast essays is to carry out an analysis of the similarities and/or differences of two subjects. There are different ways through which these essays are outlined. In many cases, it is advisable to note only focus on the similarities and differences of the subjects. It is good to try and go deeper into the discussion. The points that are outlined in the essay should then be used to make meaningful arguments regarding the subjects that are in context.