Essay Writing Guide

Essay Topics

Last updated on: Jun 28, 2024

Essay Topics: 100+ Best Essay Topics for your Guidance

By: Nova A.

13 min read

Reviewed By: Rylee W.

Published on: Jan 29, 2019

Essay Topics

Let’s face it, essay writing can be tedious and boring. Spending hours to write a good essay is difficult, and brainstorming essay topic ideas can be even more confusing.

This is what makes writing essays difficult and time-consuming. Luckily, you can learn  essay writing  with practice and by following some good examples. But before that, you should know how to choose a good and engaging topic for your essay.

To help you get started, we have categorized a list of a number of different types of essay topic lists.

Essay Topics

On this Page

Argumentative Essay Topics

An argumentative essay investigates a topic in great detail, forms an argument over it, and defends it using supporting data.

Below are some good argumentative essay topic ideas to help you draft winning essays.

  • School students should be allowed to curate their high school curriculum.
  • The role of physical education in the school system.
  • Should the death sentence be implemented globally?
  • It should be illegal to use certain types of animals for experiments and other research purposes.
  • Should the government do more to improve accessibility for people with physical disabilities?
  • Do people learn the art of becoming a politician, or are they born with it?
  • Social media platform owners should monitor and block comments containing hateful language.
  • Does technology play a role in making people feel more isolated?
  • Will there ever be a time when there will be no further technological advancements?
  • It should be illegal to produce and sell tobacco.
  • Girls should be motivated to take part in sports.
  • Rape victims should abort their unborn children.
  • Fathers should get equal paternity leave.
  • Do teenagers get into trouble because they are bored?
  • Individuals who have failed at parenting should be punished.
  • Vaping is less harmful than smoking cigarettes.
  • Covid-19 vaccination has more cons than pros.
  • Social media is the real cause of teenage depression.
  • Is the American education system perfect for society?
  • Recycling should be made compulsory.

Choosing a strong topic is key to writing a great essay. Have a look at our blog to select good  argumentative essay topics  to impress the audience.

Persuasive Essay Topics

A persuasive essay is similar to an argumentative paper. However, in it, the writer wants to convince the readers of their point of view. Simple essay topics would make better essays as they help the students stay focused.

Below is a list of some good persuasive essay topics for you:

  • Energy drinks should be banned in schools and colleges.
  • Gambling should be banned in the United States.
  • Should abortions be banned worldwide?
  • Hunting is an immoral act.
  • Is it okay to use animals in a circus?
  • Harmful dogs should be euthanized.
  • Cell phones should not be allowed in schools.
  • Teachers should pass a professional exam, just like students.
  • Schools should reduce the workload on students.
  • Sex education should be mandatory in high schools.
  • Vlogging isn’t an actual profession.
  • Is LinkedIn helpful for finding a job?
  • Social media has played a big role in increasing business opportunities.
  • Is Java becoming obsolete?
  • Should employers go through the candidate’s social media profiles?
  • Animal testing should be banned.
  • Violent video games should be banned.
  • Parents with mental disabilities should not be allowed to adopt children.
  • Alcohol consumption should be legalized in Muslim countries.
  • Every person should get Covid-19 vaccination.

For your help, we have gathered a wide range of  persuasive essay topics . Give it a read.

Descriptive Essay Topics

A descriptive essay describes a specific thing by using sensory data. It is done to engage the reader’s five senses (taste, touch, smell, hearing, sight).

The following is a list of descriptive essay topic ideas for the students.

  • The person who is responsible for making a difference in my life.
  • Describe a smartphone and its benefits to someone from the ‘60s.
  • The most interesting piece of art I have ever seen.
  • Describe the experience of falling in love.
  • What does a place that only exists in your imagination look like?
  • Describe meeting a famous person.
  • Describe yourself and your personality to a stranger.
  • What will life be like in 2050?
  • An experience that changed my life forever.
  • Your idea of the perfect day.
  • My first trip abroad.
  • The most significant event in American History.
  • A popular book series that disappointed you.
  • A look into my daily life.
  • A day in the life of an ER doctor.
  • A trip to the museum.
  • The most interesting movie I watched during my summer vacation.
  • My favorite childhood memory.
  • An incident that changed my life.
  • An incident that restored my faith in humanity.

Here are some more  descriptive essay topics  to help you find a good idea for your essay.

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Narrative Essay Topics

In a narrative essay, your goal is to share a personal experience by telling a story. This creative form of writing depends on how strong and exciting the theme is. The article topics for students given here are carefully curated and would help the students do good in their essays.

Some examples and topics of narrative topic ideas are presented below.

  • The experience that taught me how looks could be deceiving.
  • A week without internet and technology.
  • The impact your first love had on your life.
  • How much did your teachers contribute to making you the person you are today?
  • An experience that made you realize your parents were or weren’t always right.
  • A moment when someone you didn’t like surprised you with kindness.
  • The influence technology has had on your hobbies and life.
  • An achievement outside of academic life?
  • Which school lesson had the biggest influence on your life?
  • A day when you fought procrastination.
  • The time you faced rejection.
  • The time when you stood against your parents.
  • An experience that left you helpless.
  • The time you prayed to be an only child.
  • An act of kindness you can never forget.
  • Death of a loved one.
  • Your biggest pet peeve.
  • Your definition of a perfect weekend.
  • The things you regret most in life.
  • Your first experience of an air trip.

Choosing interesting  narrative essay topics  is essential to make the content compelling for the readers.

Research Essay Topics

While writing a research essay, the most crucial step is choosing a topic for your essay. Select a topic that is broad enough to compose an entire research essay on it.

Below are some of the best topics for your research essay.

  • Effects of violent cartoons on children.
  • Should universities provide accommodations to disabled students?
  • Events and experiences I agree are causing the increase in terrorism.
  • How do technology and gadgets affect the studies of children?
  • Do children who attend preschool do better in school?
  • Universities are becoming business-driven.
  • Does college debt affect the future lives of students?
  • Why has the divorce rate changed in the past decade?
  • Schools should allow the use of smartphones in school.
  • Effective ways to decrease depression among our youth.
  • Analyze the relationship between the United States of America and North Korea.
  • Why did the UK decide to leave the EU?
  • Is it true that students learn better in a same-sex school?
  • How does giving kids different gadgets affect their studies?
  • Compare the immigration policies of two different countries.
  • Events that lead to World War I.
  • Pros and cons of studying abroad.
  • How has Covid-19 influenced the education system of the world?
  • Individual acts that lead to Global Warming.
  • Effectiveness of the policies made to control Covid-19.

Looking for more? We have an extensive range of  research essay topics  to make the audience fall in love with your work.

Expository Essay Topics

While writing an expository essay, you have to explain and clarify your topic clearly to the readers.

Below is a list of expository essay topics:

  • Why do teenagers commit suicide?
  • What is the impact of music on our youth?
  • What are the consequences of skipping school?
  • Why do teenagers use drugs?
  • How can pets make you happy and improve your life?
  • Consequences of having alcoholic drinks within a school campus.
  • How does drug use affect relationships?
  • Is global warming a cause of skin cancer?
  • Is sodium bad for your health?
  • What is the line between being overweight and being obese?
  • Why do you want to pursue your desired career?
  • Explain how advancements in science improve the quality of life for humans.
  • What are some unconventional ways of relieving stress?
  • If you could swap your lives with someone, who would it be and why?
  • What are some major stress factors in a teenager’s life?
  • Why is getting a degree important for job life?
  • Pros and cons of getting financial aid.
  • How emotional support animals help in treating mental conditions.
  • How does prostitution influence society?
  • The environmental causes of smoking.

5StarEssays.com has gathered an additional and extensive list of  expository essay topics .

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Compare and Contrast Essay Topics

In a compare and contrast essay, you evaluate and analyze the similarities and differences between the two subjects. Your reader must be able to form an opinion after weighing the pros and cons you have set forth.

Below are some topics for you to choose for your compare and contrast paper:

  • Extroverts and introverts.
  • Generation Y Vs. Generation Z.
  • Traditional Helicopters Vs. Lifesize Drones.
  • Unemployed students Vs. students with a part-time job.
  • SAT and TOEFL.
  • Persuasive and argumentative essays - How are they similar?
  • How were the causes of World War I different from the causes of World War II?
  • Education vs. professional career: what is more difficult?
  • Real-life or spending your time daydreaming.
  • Consequences of earthquake and tsunami: what’s worse?
  • Being popular in high school or alone?
  • Part-time work or studying for a higher degree?
  • Getting married at an old age or a young age?
  • Fashion today Vs. twenty years ago.
  • Donald Trump Vs. Hillary Clinton.
  • Democracy Vs. Dictatorship
  • Vietnam War Vs. War on Terror.
  • Benefits of drinking tea Vs. coffee.
  • Greek and Roman methodologies - Similarities and differences.
  • Traditional Vs. distant learning.

Get more interesting  compare and contrast essay topics  at 5StarEssays.com to impress your instructors.

Cause and Effect Essay Topics

The cause and effect essay explains why something happens and what happens as a result of those happenings. A cause and effect essay is a type of expository essay.

Here are a few topics for your cause and effect essay:

  • What are the causes of eating disorders?
  • Effects of climate change and global warming.
  • The effects of the Feminism movement.
  • What are the causes of increasing depression among teenagers?
  • What are the causes of suicidal thoughts?
  • Is keeping a pet effective in calming your mind?
  • How does divorce affects children?
  • Why are men afraid of commitment?
  • Effects of social media on youth.
  • Has social media affected relationships among families?
  • Discuss the effects of homeschooling on children.
  • Causes of heart diseases.
  • Causes of sibling rivalry.
  • Cramming doesn't help improve test scores.
  • Cause and effect of depression in the workplace.
  • How do abusive parents influence the mental stability of a child?
  • Causes and effects of bullying.
  • Causes of obesity in teenagers.
  • Effects of taking a balanced diet on health?
  • Causes and effects of insomnia.

To get more ideas, visit our  cause and effect essay topics  that are remarkable and well-suited for a great essay.

Controversial Argumentative Essay Topics

Argumentative essay topics are quite popular assignments in universities. If you are a student searching for a captivating argumentative essay topic, here is a list of ideas you can consider.

  • Third world war should be prevented by the Russian and US governments.
  • Political policies and practices affecting students.
  • Is gun control effective in reducing crime?
  • Same-sex marriage and constitutional law.
  • Is society over-regulated?
  • Are leaders born or made?
  • No one should be above the law.
  • Monarchy: pros and cons.
  • Rules on Political Activities by Federal Employees.
  • The most corrupt countries in the world.
  • Mercy killing should be legalized in all countries of the world.
  • Death penalties should be abolished.
  • Third-world countries should be provided with education plans by the developed countries.
  • Muslims should not be labeled as terrorists.
  • Illegal immigrants should be given equal rights.
  • Abortions should be legalized.
  • Live-in relationships should be encouraged.
  • Professional athletes should be allowed to consume steroids.
  • Should physical punishments be given to children?
  • Smoking in public should be an offensive crime.

Funny Argumentative Essay Topics

Are you looking for some funny argumentative essay topics for your essay? If so, choose a topic from the following list.

  • Why do people like watching funny videos?
  • What your cat is really thinking.
  • Why spam emails should be your favorite type of email.
  • Why wearing braces is fun.
  • School dropouts are the best in our society.
  • Why I don't like country music.
  • Types of dates.
  • A better way to get things done.
  • What organic food really is.
  • Things guys do that girls hate.
  • How to annoy your friend.
  • Why do women pretend that they enjoy sports?
  • Things preventing you from completing your homework in time.
  • Funny things we see in wedding ceremonies.
  • Why are spam emails more interesting?
  • Why does Starbucks coffee taste better?
  • Why are backbenchers smarter than other students?
  • Clowns are scarier than funny.
  • Should we be maintaining social distancing even after Covid-19?
  • Why is watching movies better than reading books?

Informative Essay Topics for Students

Essay writing requires depth. However, you don’t have to choose a complex topic in middle school, high school, or college.

Here is a list of interesting essay topics for middle school, high school, and college students.

Essay Topics for College Students

  • Virtual classes cannot replace the traditional class system.
  • Advantages and disadvantages of online classes.
  • Is there a need to reform the college education system?
  • Assault weapons should not be legal.
  • People with a history of mental illness should not be allowed to purchase firearms.
  • The taxation system needs to be changed around the globe.
  • Kids should not be the target audience in advertising.
  • The number of calories should be mentioned with every meal.
  • Feminists have effectively improved the workforce for women.
  • Is the death penalty effective?
  • How to identify fake news?
  • How to maintain a healthy life?
  • How to treat PTSD naturally?
  • Should people be judged on their appearance?
  • How is technology influencing the work performance of people?
  • Private Vs. public schools
  • How to choose majors in high school?
  • Impact of legalizing drugs on society.
  • Significance of learning social values.
  • How to prevent bullying on campus?

Essay Topics for High School

  • The choice to join the armed forces should be an individual decision.
  • Listening to music can increase work efficiency.
  • Being honest has more cons than pros.
  • People who have been in an accident value life more than others.
  • Embarrassing moments help boost your confidence.
  • Kindness is the most valuable personal trait.
  • Spontaneity can improve your life.
  • Can hobbies help improve the richness of one’s life?
  • Dressing properly in the office improves work efficiency
  • Being organized can help in school as well as the office.
  • Impact of homosexuality on society.
  • What is feminism?
  • How to overcome fears and phobias?
  • Significance of having leadership skills in job life?
  • Causes and treatments for bipolar disorder.
  • Side effects of consuming antidepressants.
  • How important is mental health in succeeding professionally?
  • How do teaching methods influence learning abilities?
  • Should specially-abled people be allowed to work in offices?
  • Discrimination and racism in the US.

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Essay Topics for Middle School

  • Every child should have chores at home.
  • There should not be any summer classes.
  • Should students continue studying during summer vacation?
  • Parents should pay attention to the amount of time their children spend watching television.
  • Favorite family summer vacation.
  • Sports should be mandatory in every school.
  • Processed foods should not be part of private and public school lunch.
  • Do students still use newspapers for research?
  • Every individual should spend a year doing community service.
  • The weekend should be 3 days long.

Still need help choosing an essay topic? 5StarEssays is a professional  essay writing service  that helps you get a high quality essay. We have a team of essay writers who are professionals and can do your essay . 

We also have an AI-powered paper writer  for you to help you generate an essay in seconds to use as a reference!

Nova A.

As a Digital Content Strategist, Nova Allison has eight years of experience in writing both technical and scientific content. With a focus on developing online content plans that engage audiences, Nova strives to write pieces that are not only informative but captivating as well.

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Crafting a college essay can be a pivotal moment in your academic journey. It’s an opportunity to showcase your voice, share your experiences, and stand out from the crowd. 

Picking from a vast array of college essay topics can be overwhelming. That’s why we’ve compiled an exhaustive list of 100 college essay topics. These topics are categorized to boost your creativity and help you find the perfect theme that resonates with your story. 

Get an A+ with our expert essay editing services! Learn more

We’ve also given helpful tips on how to choose and write the perfect essay for college. So let’s start by understanding how to pick the perfect college essay topic:

How to pick the perfect college essay topic

Selecting good college essay topics is more than just finding a subject that sounds impressive. It’s about finding a genuine fit for your personality and experiences. Here’s how to identify the best college essay topics for your unique narrative:

Reflect on your passions: What excites you? What are you eager to explore further?

Consider your experiences: Which life events have shaped who you are?

Identify your growth: How have challenges and obstacles contributed to your personal development?

Think about relevance: Will this topic be engaging for the admissions committee?

Be authentic: Choose a topic that allows your genuine self to shine through.

With these considerations in mind, let’s dive into a curated list of essay topics for college students, designed to spark inspiration and provoke thought.

100 Best college essay topics

We’ve created a list of the unique college essay topics that stand out to help you ace your essay!

Argumentative college essay topics

Here is a list of top argumentative essay topics for college:

1. The role of government in regulating internet content.

2. Should higher education be a right or a privilege?

3. The ethical implications of gene editing in humans.

4. Are standardized tests an accurate measure of student intelligence?

5. The impact of social media on youth and society.

6. Should college athletes be paid for playing sports?

7. The viability of a four-day workweek.

8. Is a gap year beneficial before starting college?

9. The influence of advertising on consumer behavior.

10. Privacy vs. security: How much surveillance is too much?

Persuasive essay topics for college

Here is a list of top persuasive essay topics for college:

1. The importance of arts education in schools.

2. Why volunteering should be part of the college curriculum.

3. The benefits of bilingual education.

4. The necessity of making public transport free.

5. Why we must invest in renewable energy sources.

6. The case for banning single-use plastics.

7. Should voting be mandatory?

8. The importance of preserving historical monuments.

9. Why we need stricter regulations on animal testing.

10. The need for more progressive tax systems.

Compare and contrast essay topics for college students

Here is a list of top compare-and-contrast essay topics for college:

1. Living on campus vs. commuting: Which is better for college students?

2. Online classes vs. traditional classes: A comparison of effectiveness.

3. The pros and cons of private vs. public universities.

4. Western vs. Eastern philosophies of education.

5. Fast food vs. home-cooked meals: Implications on health.

6. Traditional vs. alternative medicine: A comparative study.

7. The leadership styles of two prominent figures in history.

8. Book adaptations: When the book or the movie is better?

9. Comparing two different approaches to environmental conservation.

10. The impact of different parenting styles on child development.

Cause and effect essay topics for college students

Here is a list of top cause-and-effect essay topics for college:

1. The effects of social networking sites on communication.

2. How does consumerism affect the global economy?

3. The impact of college debt on future life choices of students.

4. The effects of global warming on polar ice caps.

5. The causes and effects of insomnia during exam periods.

6. How does stress affect health and well-being?

7. The influence of diet on cognitive functions.

8. The effects of music on mood and productivity.

9. The impact of technology on the job market.

10. Causes and effects of cultural appropriation.

Creative college essay topics

Here is a list of top creative essay topics for college:

1. Imagine a day in the life of your favorite book character.

2. If you could invent something, what would it be and why?

3. The adventures of living in a parallel universe.

4. Writing a eulogy for a historical villain.

5. A world without smartphones: Chaos or calm?

6. If you could converse with an artist from the past, who would it be?

7. The experience of time travel to your most and least favorite historical periods.

8. What if you were the president for a week?

9. If animals could form their own society, how would it look?

10. A letter to a future generation about life in the 21st century.

College essay topics about life goals

Here is a list of top life goals essay topics for college:

1. How your career goals have evolved over time.

2. The influence of a family business on your professional aspirations.

3. The importance of role models in shaping your future ambitions.

4. A major life goal and the steps you’re taking to achieve it.

5. How overcoming a significant challenge has refocused your life goals.

6. The impact of travel on your personal and professional objectives.

7. The importance of lifelong learning in your career path.

8. The role of mentorship in achieving success.

9. How do you plan to give back to your community in your future career?

10. The pursuit of happiness: Defining and achieving your life’s goals.

Informative essay topics for college

Here is a list of top informative essay topics for college:

1. The history and impact of the feminist movement.

2. The process of neural network development in artificial intelligence.

3. Exploring the causes of economic recessions.

4. The role of genetics in determining personality.

5. The significance of the Green Revolution in agriculture.

6. The evolution of space exploration technology.

7. The impact of colonialism on modern-day global relations.

8. The fundamentals of quantum computing.

9. Understanding the human impact on ocean life.

10. The rise of virtual reality and its potential applications.

Research essay topics for college

Here is a list of top research essay topics for college:

1. Analyzing the efficacy of the current educational model in fostering innovation.

2. The role of social media influencers in shaping youth culture.

3. The effects of urbanization on biodiversity.

4. The relationship between mental health and modern work culture.

5. The impact of cryptocurrencies on global finance.

6. The evolution of gender roles over the past century.

7. The influence of climate change policies on international relations.

8. The effects of diet trends on public health.

9. The future of genetic engineering in medicine.

10. The role of artificial intelligence in shaping the future of employment.

Narrative essay topics for college students

Here is a list of top narrative essay topics for college:

1. The moment you overcame a profound fear.

2. An encounter that changed your perspective on life.

3. The experience of losing something or someone important.

4. A moment of failure that turned into a lesson of success.

5. Your first day at college and how it met your expectations.

6. A journey that was more than just travel.

7. A significant memory that defines your childhood.

8. The challenge of adapting to a new culture.

9. An act of kindness that left a lasting impact on you.

10. A situation where you had to stand up for what you believed in.

Personal essay topics for college students

Here is a list of top personal essay topics for college:

1. How has a book or movie influenced your understanding of the world?

2. The role of a particular extracurricular activity in shaping who you are.

3. A personal philosophy or mantra that guides your life.

4. The journey of self-discovery during your teenage years.

5. Overcoming a personal struggle to achieve a goal.

6. A cultural tradition that holds significant meaning for you.

7. The impact of a mentor or teacher on your life.

8. A pivotal moment of realization about your identity.

9. How do you cope with stress and maintain mental well-being?

10. The importance of a work-life balance in your personal vision.

Now that we have a list of 100 college essay topics that cover many types of essays and writing styles, let’s delve into how to write an essay , perfect for college!

How to write the perfect college essay

Writing an essay for college admission is not just about showcasing your knowledge; it’s about telling a story that reflects your identity, aspirations, and the value you can bring to a college community. Whether you’re starting an essay or aiming to conclude an essay , here are steps to ensure your essay stands out:

Understanding the prompt

Before you begin writing, understand the academic writing prompt thoroughly. Make sure you know what the question is asking and how you can address it in a unique way that showcases your strengths and experiences.

Choosing your topic wisely

Select a topic that resonates with you and allows you to share something personal and significant. Know which common college essay topics to avoid, and instead, choose unique college essay topics that allow your personality and voice to shine through.

Crafting a compelling introduction

Your introduction should hook the reader and set the tone for the rest of the essay. Start with an anecdote, a surprising fact, or a thought-provoking question to draw the reader in.

Developing a clear structure

Organize and format your college essay with a clear essay structure , including an introduction, body paragraphs, and a conclusion. Each paragraph should support the main thesis outline of your essay with evidence and personal reflections.

Showcasing your voice

Your essay should sound like you. Use your own voice and avoid overly formal language. The goal is to make the reader feel as though they are getting to know the real you.

Being honest and reflective

Be honest in your writing and reflect on your experiences. Admissions officers can tell when a student is being genuine versus when they’re saying what they think the college wants to hear.

Proofreading and revising

After you’ve written your essay, take the time to do essay proofreading and edit your essay if necessary. Look for grammatical errors , check for flow, and make sure your essay is clear and concise. It can be helpful to have someone else read your essay to provide feedback. You can also use tools like essay checkers to make your work easier.

Avoiding taboo topics

There are certain college essay topics to avoid, such as those that are overly controversial, inappropriate, or cliché. Choose a topic that is meaningful but also appropriate for a diverse audience.

Some examples of essay topics to avoid include:

1. Grandiose tales of heroism that seem exaggerated or implausible.

2. The story of your achievements without reflection on the journey or challenges.

3. Controversial topics that do not contribute to a positive discourse or understanding.

4. Overly polarizing political or religious topics that may not resonate with the reader.

5. Cliched volunteer experiences that don’t reveal anything unique about you.

Ending with impact

Your conclusion should wrap up your essay without simply summarizing what you’ve already said. End with a reflection on how the topic has shaped you or how you’ve grown from the experience.

Your college essay is more than an assignment; it’s a canvas for your experiences and dreams. Choose a topic that resonates with you, and let your passion shine through your words. And while AI essay writers can provide assistance with the initial stages of drafting, the real magic comes from your personal touch and insights. 

To ensure your essay truly stands out, consider the expert editing and proofreading services offered by PaperTrue. Our team can sharpen your narrative, correct any linguistic errors, and enhance your essay’s clarity, allowing your unique voice to captivate the admissions committee. Happy writing!

Keep on reading for more useful tips:

  • Guide to a Perfect Descriptive Essay [Examples & Outline Included]
  • What Is an Adverb? Definition, Types, Differences & Examples

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101 Great Essay Writing Topics for Students

Before you sit down to write, you need a topic, and these essay writing topics can help you get started.

Writing an essay is an important skill for high school and college students. Essays show a writer’s ability to think through a topic, explore their point of view and persuade or inform others of that. Yet, finding essay writing topics can feel vague. 

This list will help students find the right topic for a descriptive essay or argumentative essay. It outlines a number of hot topics that students can delve into in order to express their opinions and showcase their writing skills. You can use these to practice your essay writing skills or as prompts for you or students.

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1. Is Climate Change Real?

2. the benefits (or drawbacks) of homework , 3. a funny childhood memory, 4. video game addiction, 5. the role of pets in our lives, 6. my summer vacation, 7. a personal victory or success, 8. what will life be like in 2050, 9. a trip to the museum, 10. describe meeting a famous person, 11. the impact of social media on tweens, 12. importance of school uniforms, 13. extracurricular activities: essential or optional, 14. favorite book and its impact, 15. the influence of celebrities on youth, 16. the significance of recreational activities, 17. if i were the principal of my school, 18. why the sale and production of tobacco should get banned, 19. should every country have the death sentence, 20. is homeschooling better or worse than public school, 21. is the us election process fair, 22. how can we reduce climate change, 23. your responsibility in climate change, 24. are you politically influenced by media, 25. feminism then and now, 26. the impact of immigration on host countries, 27. are environmentalist groups doing the wrong protests, 28. should we cancel cancel culture, 29. is artificial intelligence a boon or bane to society, 30. is genetic engineering ethical, 31. the role of social movements in social change, 32. censorship in media: necessary or suppressive, 33. is technology making education lazy, 34. are we supposed to share culture, 35. why soda should not be on fast food kids meals, 36. illegal immigrants should not be jailed, 37. breastfeeding in public should be considered normal, 38. why gun control is needed, 39. a turning point in your life, 40. should religion be taught in schools, 41. recycling should be compulsory, 42. colleges are becoming business driven, 43. the necessity of art in education, 44. the importance of space exploration, 45. the future of renewable energy, 46. fast fashion’s environmental impact, 47. social media and its influence on body image, 48. the role of social media in interpersonal relationships, 49. the consequences of cyberbullying, 50. the relevance of standardized testing today, 51. the influence of video games on youth behavior, 52. homework vs. class assignments, 53. social media vs. in-person interaction, 54. physical education vs. nutritional education, 55. life before and after the internet, 56. right side vs left side of the brian thinkers, 57. tea vs coffee, 58. fashion today vs 20 years ago, 59. ebooks vs. physical books, 60. urban vs. rural living, 61. traditional vs. digital art, 62. freelance vs. full-time employment, 63. western vs. eastern philosophies, 64. democracy vs. dictatorship, 65. introverts vs. extroverts, 66. working in your country vs. working abroad, 67. science fiction vs. fantasy, 68. public vs. private healthcare, 69. first day of school memories, 70. a memorable act of kindness, 71. your best or worst holiday, 72. an experience with peer pressure, 73. a surprising event or change of fortune., 74. your first teacher, 75. your idea of the perfect day, 76. imagine a week without the internet or technology, 77. a day you overcame rejection, 78. overcoming my fear, 79. the day i lost my first pet, 80. that someone who influenced me, 81. the most embarrassing moment, 82. the time i stood up for what i believe, 83. the invention i wish i had thought of, 84. an unexpected friendship, 85. the day that defined my future, 86. how is global warming changing the environment, 87. the causes of world war ii, 88. what is racism, and how are people sometimes unaware of it, 89. does free will exist, 90. what reading means to me, 91. the role of journalists and the media, 92. animal testing should be banned, 93. why do teenagers commit suicide, 94. the role of the united nations, 95. the history and impact of the internet, 96. why is financial literacy crucial today, 97. the importance of technology in healthcare, 98. the rise of electric vehicles, 99. an analysis of a popular tv show, 100. the value of learning a second language, 101. the stigma around mental health, a final word on the best essay writing topics, what are some topics for a persuasive essay, what are some good topics for an essay, best essay writing topics for middle school students.

Great essay writing topics

If you are picking an essay for a 7th or 8th-grade student, the topic needs to be something that students in that age range are interested in. This will help them want to do the research and explore their ideas. This age range will often write expository essays or narrative essays, rather than persuasive ones.

Here are some essay topics to consider:

Climate change is a hot topic with middle schoolers, and this essay topic idea lets them explore it. This essay topic can work well for a persuasive, informative, or cause-and-effect essay.

Few middle school students enjoy homework, but this can be a great way to get them to dig into why the education system relies on homework. Students can give their opinions about the need for homework or why homework should be eliminated.

Middle school students who are not ready to write on argumentative essay topics can practice their English essay writing skills by writing about a funny thing that happened as a child. This topic should focus on entertaining, engaging storytelling. 

Video game addiction

Many young students spend a lot of time playing video games, and this can translate into an essay topic. Exploring the mental health effects of too much video gameplay is a good option. Ask them to write about games they live or spend too much time playing.

Do you have a pet at home that you can’t imagine not being there when you return? How do you treat it, and do you think of your pet as a best friend? Opt for a cause-and-effect essay on the role of pets in our lives to showcase this bond. Then, include the positive effects of owning a pet. Don’t forget to talk about the responsibilities that come with it.

This is a staple choice of teachers everywhere, particularly after the summer break. All younger students can write essays easily enough about how they spent a few weeks off school and where they went. Perhaps it was time with a family member or a best friend? There is a good reason that many elementary and middle school teachers assign this as a writing assignment at the start of school.

A student could start writing this essay by writing about when they felt like all was lost. Then, they could describe how they picked themselves up off the dirt and achieved a victory.

Will we find solutions to the problems we face today, like poverty and homelessness? Will technology enrich our lives further or be the cause of new issues?

Many young students often think about the future, and this topic allows them to let their imaginations run loose.

This way, they can express their ideas on how the world will look like in a few decades. It also gives you insight into the child’s personality. Do they see the positives in everything, or are they a bit more realistic?

As children, we loved going to the museum. Even today, it’s interesting to look at historical art, sculptures, and old vehicles. 

This essay topic works exceptionally well right after a school holiday. Maybe the young student just witnessed some of the best historical pieces. Writing about this topic allows them to reconnect with the emotions they felt.

In this essay, ask students what they liked most about visiting the museum, what important lessons they learned, and how they felt in the moment.

We all have favorite celebrities that we’d love to meet. This could be an actor, musician, or athlete.

In this essay topic, ask students to describe what it’s like to meet a famous person. How would they feel, what questions would the student ask them, and what activities would they do together?

By asking your student to write the essay as descriptively as possible, they’ll experience the positive emotions associated with meeting their idol.

For this prompt, your goal is to explore the balance between the good, the bad, and the unknown in social media platforms. As a middle schooler, you know better than anyone how integral social media is in your daily life. Think about it – how many people your age don’t have a phone connected to the internet?

A cause-and-effect essay on this subject will allow you to investigate how social networking systems influence people. Self-reflect and analyze how social media sites affect your feelings, friendships, and even schoolwork.

Have you ever wondered why some schools insist on their students having uniforms? This is despite other schools being more lenient and letting their students wear whatever they want. If you are, then satiate your curiosity via this prompt.

An argumentative essay will help you understand both sides of the debate. You can discuss why schools make uniforms mandatory or optional and investigate how uniforms affect students’ behavior, academic performance, and school pride.

Are you a part of your school’s sports team or another club, or do you prefer to focus your time on academics only? If you have ever wondered what extracurricular activities are for, use this prompt to write an informative essay on the importance of extracurricular activities.

Write about the exact details of the role of extracurricular activities in a student’s overall development. Explore and add the benefits and drawbacks of these activities as well. Through your essay, other students can make informed choices about how they spend their time at school.

Books are all about exploration. When you use books for school, they aim to make you more knowledgeable. But they are also doors to fantasy lands and help you learn more about yourself.

Do you have a favorite book that left a mark on you? For this prompt, write a personal narrative essay sharing that experience. Analyze why the book matters, then add how it has changed or defined you. Your essay might sway others to read your favorite book.

Celebrities and influences are everywhere – so much so that you can’t avoid them no matter how hard you try. They’re in the music you listen to, the streets you drive through, and even the boxes of your favorite cereals. For this prompt, write an argumentative essay about these celebrities and their critical influence on younger people.

Focus on celebrities’ sway on youth’s behavior, values, and aspirations. Argue whether they are positive role models or if they set unrealistic expectations. It’s best to choose celebrities everyone knows, like the Kardashians or the Bangtan Boys.

What do you do when you have time off from school? Aside from the instances you attend family events, do you like swimming, biking, or drawing? This prompt is perfect for a descriptive essay where you can detail your favored recreational activity.

Start with how you discovered the activity and why you got hooked on it. Include its significance to your life. Does it help you relax, meet new people, etc.? You can also talk about the skills you gained by doing this recreational activity regularly.

Have you ever dreamt of calling the shots at school? What about imagining being the principal? In this essay, share ideas on what parts of your school you want to keep or change. Analyze each critically and propose the improvements the school needs. Via this prompt, you can showcase your leadership skills. Remember to express your thoughts respectfully and constructively, and don’t forget to offer rational explanations for each proposed change. 

Controversial Essay Writing Topics for Older Students

As they enter high school and college, students should start transitioning from informative essays to persuasive ones. Controversial essay topics are a good way to do this. They help students develop their critical thinking skills and learn how to reason an argument. The below topics the bill well:

Few people would argue about the health benefits of tobacco, yet it remains a top-selling product. This essay will explore the benefits of banning the sale of the product altogether.

The death sentence is a controversial ethical and social issue. This essay will explore whether or not it is a suitable method of punishment and deterrent for serious crimes and the benefits or drawbacks of adding it to every country across the globe.

Homeschooling is growing in popularity, and this school essay topic will explore the benefits or drawbacks of this particular school choice. It may be pulled from personal experience if the student is homeschooled. 

Elections are an essential part of our lives. It gives us the power to determine who will govern our country. However, is the election process fair?

In the essay, your student will get an opportunity to voice their ideas, describe what changes they’d like to see, and how those changes will positively impact the nation.

This essay topic requires more research, and students walk away with knowledge that can help them in the long term.

Climate change is a serious topic that impacts everyone’s life. Sea levels are rising, which makes it difficult for animals like polar bears to survive.

When writing about this essay topic, students will have to research the effect of climate change, what causes it, and how to reduce its impact.

This requires logical thinking and creativity. It’ll encourage students to come up with a plan of action. Maybe they’ll limit the number of carbon emissions released by companies, promote solar power, or decrease the price of energy-efficient appliances.

Climate change has always been a controversial topic. There are many protests about it, but despite the protests, there are still no proper solutions. For this prompt, focus on what you, as a student, can do to help stop or slow down climate change. Identify your personal role in this phenomenon. Examine both your positive and negative contributions. As you write this essay, you can also discover sustainable life changes to add to your life. You can even encourage your future readers to follow your example.

Keeping up to date with world news is easy because we’re connected to the media 24/7. With this in mind, create a cause-and-effect essay and inspect the power of media in shaping your political views.

For instance, have you sided with a viewpoint because of a convincing social media post? For sure, many have experienced this once or twice. Dig deeper via your essay, analyze the media’s role and motivations, and present your findings.

If you plan to create a compare-and-contrast essay, go for this prompt. Analyze the evolution of feminist movements. Then, examine their origins, goals, and the changes they’ve brought about.

Have you ever wondered how the feminism of your grandma’s era differed from today’s? By researching this topic, you’ll not only increase your knowledge – you’ll also be able to educate others.

Are you looking at writing about globally relevant issues? If so, immigration is a complex subject you can explore—research immigration in the news, books, or even movies. You can even ask your teacher for help if you need to. For this prompt, connect your findings to the issues of the countries receiving immigrants. Make sure to differentiate the legal from illegal immigrants to relay your points better.

The environment is a sacred and essential part of our lives. And so it’s easy to understand the movements and the organizations that want to protect it. But do you think their actions will make others appreciate their cause in the long run?

This is why this controversial prompt is perfect for a persuasive essay. Talk about the recent protests. It can be the protestor’s destruction of paintings of legendary artists, glueing their hands on airport runways, or stopping people on the streets. Critique the strategies of environmental activist groups. Are they properly raising awareness? Or are their methods causing more harm than good?

Cancel culture is often based on limited evidence and incites blind hate. As an older student, you’re likely familiar with the term and its implications. In your essay, list cancel culture’s pros and cons and analyze each in depth.

Is cancel culture helpful? Is it only spreading misinformation? Is the hive mentality it encourages good? Share your thoughts on this recent societal development. Then, offer ways on how to better interact with cancel culture. For instance, you can recommend holding off judgment and thoroughly researching the issue first to make up your own mind.

Artificial intelligence is here to stay, but how helpful is it? For this prompt, create an expository essay that analyzes how AI is both a boon and a bane. For example, AI can make companies’ systems more efficient. But at the same time, it takes jobs away from writers, artists, and even tech devs.

Cite recent happenings, like the Texas A&M Commerce professor who failed his entire class to show the issue’s relevancy. As a student, you’re pretty familiar with AI developments. You might even have experienced it first-hand. Stop and think about AI’s broader implications via your essay.

Genetic engineering has always been a controversial subject. Since you’re an older student, you’ve probably had debates about this in class or with friends. To better understand the issue, construct a well-researched, argumentative essay on genetic engineering and the ethics that surround it.

As a student and a general public member, you are not just an observer of what happens in society. You are an active participant in social dynamics. So, for this prompt, opt for a cause-and-effect essay where you analyze how collective actions and thinking shape societies. Support your thoughts with evidence and share your realizations.

For this prompt, start by defining freedom of expression and comparing it with censorship. Then, present cases (preferably recent ones) to explain why censorship is necessary or repressive. This will help you create an informative essay that educates your readers.

In your essay, answer the question: “Is technology helpful or detrimental to education?” As a student, you’re at the center of this revolution. For instance, online classes are more prevalent now than some years ago. Submitting soft copies of papers online wasn’t even a thing then. Write an expository essay about whether technology aids or hampers your learning process.

If you want to write a thought-provoking descriptive essay, consider this prompt: There are unique cultures. But should these cultures remain exclusive? Think about your own culture and what it means to you. Would you like to share your culture? It’s time to share your thoughts and experiences.

In the same essay, you can also mention cultural appreciation versus cultural appropriation. Talk about these ideas’ differences and similarities.

Persuasive Essay Topics for Older Students

Persuasive essays work to convince a reader of the writer’s point of view. These topics lend themselves well to a great essay that focuses on persuasion.

Fast food kids meals target young consumers, and soda is often included. Making junk food a way of life contributes to childhood obesity, and this topic could explore alternatives to soda for these kid-centered meals.

When people enter a country illegally, putting them in jail does not solve the problem. Instead, alternative punishments or even help with attaining legal immigrant status can reduce the strain on an overloaded system while also helping these individuals become part of society. 

Babies need breast milk to survive, yet many places in society frown on women feeding their babies in public. This essay  will  explore why this is an outdated and unhealthy idea.

The best topics for persuasive essays are ones that are a little controversial. Gun control fits the bill well, and it can be a good topic for an essay. Other topics include alcohol, drugs and, in some cases, religion. That said, it depends on the nature of your students and school.

All the students can typically point to an occasion or life event when their worldview or concept changed. Ask them to write about a defining life experience.

This essay topic is for older students and adult learners who can take a thoughtful but critical stance on the role of religion in schools today. Should it be taught or removed from schools, and why?

The average American produces 1,704 pounds of garbage per year. Most of this is thrown in landfills, which can be equally as damaging to the environment as littering. Oceans are also filled with plastic that negatively affects the lives of marine life.

However, if we can recycle all that waste, we won’t damage the environment. This essay topic encourages older students to research recycling and the pros and cons of making it mandatory. 

Getting a tertiary education is essential. It allows you to learn a marketable skill that other people pay you for. 

However, private colleges are becoming more common, leading people to think that these institutions are more focused on making money.

When writing about this topic, students need to research the cost of college tuition, how this high price negatively impacts their adult lives, and how the government can fix it.

Through this prompt, explore and express the value of creativity and aesthetics in one’s learning. Explain why art is essential. How does it influence your learning and perception of the world? Consider this: art is a medium of expression and critical thinking. To write this essay effectively, identify, describe, and reflect on different art forms. You can also focus on art forms that you’ve experienced.

Have you ever looked at the night sky and wondered what’s out there? Space exploration is all about the curiosity to discover the unknown. In your essay, go beyond rockets or astronauts and highlight man’s thirst for knowledge.

Start with the historical record of space exploration. Mention how it started and how it became possible. You can even include its milestone achievements. Then, move on to experts’ predictions on the future of space exploration. Discuss its benefits to humans, common challenges, and implications for our future.

Let’s now jump to another vital global discourse. Are you aware of the environmental and economic connotations of renewable energy? You may be young now, but you’re not a stranger to the problems of this planet. Through this prompt, you can become a part of the solution. In your essay, define and discuss different types of renewable energy. Underscore their potential, pros, and cons versus traditional energy sources.

Have you ever wondered where your clothes come from and where they end up? Sadly, most of us consume fast fashion. But have you considered fast fashion’s environmental consequences?

In your essay, identify facts about fast fashion. Credible sources should support these facts so readers can realize how detrimental it is to the environment. Review the lifecycle of a typical fast fashion item. Include the environmental cost at each stage. Then, look for ways to promote sustainable fashion choices.

Today, social media dominates our lives. But have you thought about how it affects how you view your body image? This is a sensitive issue, but timely nonetheless.

For this prompt, voice your experiences and insights about social media and the unrealistic body standards it presents. By doing so, you can help others navigate through the maze of internet likes and shares. Talk about how social networking services impact how people view themselves, including their self-esteem. Then, offer ways on how to circumvent these problems.

It’s a fact today that most of our relationships start and are maintained online. But does this virtual connection hamper real-life relationships?

Through your essay, explore the link between social media and interpersonal relationships. You can tell it from your perspective. How have your relationships evolved in the age of social media? Review the dynamics of online friendships, mentioning the blurred lines between the virtual and real world. It would be useful to talk to someone you know who remembers a time before mobile phones and social media, which only became prevalent in recent decades.

Sadly, the rise of social networks also gives bullies more channels to hurt others. Now, they can also hide behind screens. In your essay, define cyberbullying and its effects on the victim’s mental health. You can even include real-life cases for illustration. End your paper by presenting measures to prevent cyberbullying.

The education system needs some updating. If you want to delve into this issue, use a prompt that critiques its current methods. One of the most timely is standardized testing. What’s your take on it? Does it measure intelligence, or is it merely rote learning? List the pros and cons of standardized testing from your perspective as a student. Write as if you want to spark a conversation about educational reform.

At your age, you’ve probably experienced the evolution of video games first-hand. If you’re a gamer, have you ever questioned how it influenced your behavior? What about your peers?

For this prompt, focus on the psychological aspects of gaming. Mention the impact of different gaming genres on mental health and behavior. Don’t just talk about the adverse effects. It’s best to also consider the potential benefits of gaming as a learning tool.

Compare and Contrast Essays for Older Students

This type of essay compares two like or unlike things, drawing ways they are the same or different. It’s useful as it provides a structure for aspiring essayists that they can use to outline a longer work. Some ideas include:

Which has more value, homework or assignments completed in class? This essay topic will explore the contrast between these two types of school assignments. For fun, give it to students to complete in class… and then ask them to revise it at home.

Social media can keep people connected, but the increased push for social media connection can detract from in-person communication. This essay will explore the contrast between the two types of communication.

Both exercise and diet play a role in health. This essay  will  explore the impact of both through the education system.

Older students and adult learners can remember a time before we spend so much time. Is life any better now that we spend so much time connected to the Internet? This essay explores what it means to be constantly connected.

Right side of the brain thinkers are typically more creative and artistic. The left side of the brain thinkers are analytical and mathematical. What’s more valuable in today’s society? What can each type learn from its counterpart? And are you truly one type exclusively?

Caffeine is a staple for many students and workers. It gives you a boost of energy in the morning, which allows you to get more done. It also helps if you have a test coming up and need to study hard.

However, larger amounts of caffeine are known to cause heart palpitations, anxiety, and increased stress.

In this essay, students look at the benefits and drawbacks of tea and coffee. It empowers them with knowledge on when to limit their consumption.

Fashion is constantly changing. What looked cool 20 years ago might look weird today. Older students will also notice how their fashion choices changed from middle school to high school and from high school to college.

In this essay, students talk about what causes this change and how long it takes for the public to accept a specific style.

You’ve likely used ebooks and physical books for your studies and hobbies. In your essay, use your experience to analyze these different reading mediums. Are you an avid Kindle user? Or do you thrive on the feel of a physical book? Write about relevant aspects like convenience, feel, accessibility, and cost. Always support your arguments with personal anecdotes and factual data.

Do you live in the city or the outskirts? Both have pros and cons. If you’ve always been a city student, maybe you’ve wondered what life is like on the other side. If so, then this prompt lets you delve into these contrasting lifestyles.

Feel free to discuss factors such as access to amenities, social interactions, and lifestyle choices. Try to visualize and put yourself in both scenarios to offer an authentic perspective.

There’s been a divide between traditional and digital art for a long time. In this prompt, uncover the why . Consider aspects like skill set, accessibility, impact, and audience reach. Then, add your thoughts on the issue. Are you drawn to the authenticity of traditional art? Or do you admire the versatility of digital art? Bring in your observations and experiences to make your essay stand out.

You might still be a student, but you’ve thought about what your job will be like in the future, right? Then, have you ever wondered about the benefits of being your boss versus the security of a full-time job? Explore these contrasting work styles. By the end of your essay, you will also better understand what awaits you after graduation.

Talk about job stability, work-life balance, income potential, and personal growth. You can draw on real-life examples from people you know.

For a more intriguing essay, explore different philosophical frameworks. Are you drawn to Western philosophy’s empirical approach? Or do you prefer Eastern thought’s spiritual aspects? Explore themes such as the self, ethics, knowledge, and reality. Then, compare how these philosophies approach these ideas differently. This is your chance to show off your critical thinking skills.

Another complicated but interesting prompt is analyzing two contrasting political systems, democracy and dictatorship. Inspect how each system impacts citizens’ rights, economic development, social equality, and international relations. Don’t shy away from using historical and current examples to solidify your arguments.

Are you an introvert, extrovert, or something in between? Picking this topic will not only give you an exciting essay. You will also learn more about yourself. This encourages you to delve into the psychological aspects of these personality types.

In your essay, analyze how these traits affect one’s social interactions, career choices, and personal well-being. Be critical of stereotypes and delve into the potential benefits and challenges of both.

Have you ever dreamed of living and working abroad? Or do you want to stay where you are now, close to home? Here, you can explore the pros and cons of working or leaving your home country. Mention cultural exposure, career opportunities, and personal growth. Contrast it with the challenges of adapting to a new environment.

Science fiction and fantasy are both popular, even today. Why not when it opens doors to various imaginations? For your essay, dive into why these genres are favored and highlight their unique characteristics. Include their societal implications and why they appeal to certain readers.

Debate has been raging on the implications of public and private healthcare systems. These debates often concern a country’s economy and its citizens’ lives. When writing this essay, you can use your personal experience or rely on secondary research. Discuss aspects like accessibility, cost, quality of care, and efficiency. For this prompt, add real-world examples and facts to strengthen your arguments.

Narrative Essay Topics for Older Students

Sometimes, an everyday life experience can make great essay material, and writing about your own life means less risk of plagiarism. Here are some ideas:

The first day of school in a new school can be the fodder for a number of personal stories about school life and the social aspects of it. Writers can capture those emotions in this type of essay. It’s also a suitable type of essay to write as it can serve as a gateway into other types of writing, like a memoir.

If someone did something for you once that really stood out, transform that into an essay topic. You will enjoy remembering the action while creating your essay.

What you did or didn’t do on your summer vacation as a child can be a great starting point for a narrative essay. Older students can use this essay prompt to write about past experiences and reflect on them beyond simply reporting.

Peer pressure can be positive or negative, but everyone has experienced it. This essay will explore a time when peer pressure made you do something or not do something and what the effect of that decision was.

Was this change in your life for the best or the worst, and how did you respond? Describe in detail.

When you first met your mentor, teacher or guide. How did you respond to them, and what did they have to show you? Similarly, a student could also write an essay about a teacher they shunned or turned away from.

When waking up in the morning, we all strive to have the perfect day. Ask students what their perfect day will look like, what activities they’d do, and with whom.

By being as descriptive as possible, students picture the perfect day in their minds. This improves students’ storytelling skills and helps them structure events in chronological order.

This fun experiment gives students insight into how reliant they are on technology and how their lives will look without it.

By imagining this week in their heads, it’ll give them an idea of what other activities they’ll engage in. This could be working out, socializing, or learning a new skill.

Rejection is something everyone must face at some point. Few things are scarier than rejection. But when you overcome it, you get a feeling of accomplishment and satisfaction.

For example, this could be asking that cute guy or girl out on a date or applying for a job at your dream company.

Are you interested in writing an essay while also self-reflecting? When you use this prompt, you also demonstrate your tenacity to overcome obstacles. Think back to any fear you have had. It doesn’t matter if they’re big or small as long as they shape your character.

Begin your essay by describing the fear you had and why. Then, narrate what you did to overcome it. Remember to discuss the aftermath and the personal growth you experienced.

Losing a pet is a personal experience. How you handled your emotions at that time shows your nature. When you write your essay, paint a vivid picture of your pet by describing quirks and traits. Explain how losing a pet changed you; don’t avoid the pain. Then, talk about your grieving process and eventual acceptance.

Did someone come to mind when you read the prompt? It’s unsurprising if they did, considering that every person has that one person who left a significant impact on their life. 

For your essay, choose and write about that individual who helps you appreciate life. Give specific details, such as when they made you realize something, and then connect them to how their teachings shaped you. This prompt also allows students to reflect on their character description and development. 

For a fun narrative essay, share the moment you felt the most embarrassed. You don’t have to be specific about it; you can instead focus on what you felt then and how you cope during that awkward situation. You can also mention what you think of the memory now that you’re looking back at it. Is it as embarrassing as you’ve thought back then?

Here is a medium to exhibit your ethics and the strength of your convictions. For this prompt, narrate the situation and explain why you must stand up. What were your thoughts during that moment? Talk about your emotions then and the consequences you’ve faced, if any. Mention how the experience shaped your approach to similar situations.

Is there any invention that made you go, “Ah, I wish I thought of that before!” It can be because of the fame that came with it, the profit, or just the sheer genius of its inventor. Select an invention that fascinates you and explain why it interests you. Think of why you wish you’d come up with it. Talk about its impact on the world and how it aligns with your interests or passions.

Friendships often form in the most unexpected places and situations. For this prompt, highlight your openness to diverse experiences and people.

In your essay, describe the circumstances that led to this unexpected friendship. Add why you found it so surprising. Speak about the qualities you appreciate in your friend and include how this relationship has affected your life. Your objective is to encourage others to broaden their social circles.

For this prompt, share a turning point in your life that set your future course. Present a comprehensive account of the event or decision that significantly impacted your future by mentioning factors that influenced it. Add your thoughts and feelings then and how things have unfolded since then.

Informative Essay Topics for Older Students

Sometimes, the goal of an essay is not to persuade but to inform. Informative or expository essay topics need to have a lot of information behind them so students have something to write about. These topics lend themselves well to that:

Global warming has many effects, and this essay  will  explore those thoroughly. The goal is to inform, not persuade or create change.

Exploring the causes behind a global war, like World War II, can create a long essay. You can spin this essay topic easily enough by picking other historical events.

Racism is a hot topic today, and this essay will explore how it can often hide in someone’s way of thinking. 

A popular essay topic in many philosophy and art classes, this is an open-ended subject. A student can use it to explore their personal philosophy and develop their critical thinking skills.

Check out this list for other philosophy questions .

Becoming a better writer means spending a lot of time reading great books. One of the best ways to encourage reading is asking readers and students to reflect on why they love reading what they learned from previous books. It’s good subject matter for an essay too.

Many people are skeptical and or don’t trust news produced by journalists. But are they right? Surely there is a bar between trustworthy and untrustworthy sources? In this essay, explore how to tell good journalism apart from bad journalism.

When testing products to see if it’s safe for humans, scientists will run tests on animals. However, this testing isn’t only cruel but ineffective. Animals don’t get certain diseases that humans do. This includes HIV, Parkinson’s disease, schizophrenia, and certain types of cancers.

In this essay, students must conduct research and present a case for why animal testing is unethical.

Suicide is the second leading cause of death for those between the ages of 10 to 24. This is a complex topic since there could be several different factors at play. Some of these include bullying, abuse, and traumatic stress.

When writing this essay, students will be encouraged to dig deeper into the main reasons why teenagers commit suicide and how we can help them as a community. This spreads awareness and gets people to take positive action.

How much do you know about the United Nations? This prompt will test your knowledge of international relations and politics as you have to pen a paper that’s easy to understand. Include the intricacies of global leadership and peacekeeping by explaining the critical functions of the UN. Then, add how it helps society and how its efforts benefit you as a student.

Where did the internet come from? How did it develop to be what it is today? In your essay, recall the history of the World Wide Web and its profound impact on our daily lives. As an older student, you’ve lived through some of the internet’s transformative phases. How has that shaped the way you live, work, or study? Answer all of these in your paper.

Many people still get confused about handling their incomes, budgets, and expenses. In your essay, explain why many fumble their finances. Include how understanding one’s finances matters now more than ever.

For a more relatable paper, you can narrate your personal journey towards financial literacy. You can also analyze current financial trends and their implications for the average person.

Technology has revolutionized healthcare, so it’ll always be a timely topic. For this prompt, delve into the impact of technological advancements on health and medicine. It’s a brilliant way to explore subjects like telemedicine or electronic health records. You can even include the role of AI in disease diagnosis.

Have you noticed more electric vehicles on the road recently? In your essay, analyze the surge in popularity of electric vehicles. Add their environmental impact and the technological advances that have made them viable. Don’t forget to include your thoughts on a future dominated by electric vehicles.

If you have a TV show you’re fond of, then you can talk about it in your essay. Explore the show’s central themes, character developments, and narrative techniques. It might even give you an excuse to rewatch your favorite series!

Parlez-vous Français? If you have a second language or are interested in learning one someday, this prompt is for you. Remember to focus your essay on the benefits of bilingualism or multilingualism. If you have any, include your memories of learning a new language. You can also ask others who speak more than one language about their experiences. Add the challenges, triumphs, and doors it has opened for you.

Today, there is the question of whether we’re doing enough to address mental health. In your paper, be open and talk about the stigma around mental health issues. You can opt to share your personal experiences or observations. Then, don’t forget to add the consequences of ignoring mental health. It’s a powerful way to raise awareness and promote empathy.

Whether you are a high school student writing an essay for homework or you are sitting down to write a college essay as you apply for school, procrastination often occurs because you do not know what to write about. Having a list of topics  handy will help. 

To choose a topic, first, decide what type of essay you need to write. Then, browse this list of writing topics to find one that is interesting to you, or use the list to think of a different, similar topic. Soon, you will have an essay that is engaging and informative and can showcase your writing abilities well. 

If you need more inspiration, check out our guide to the 101+ best writing prompts .

FAQs About the Best Essay Writing Topics

Persuasive essays require a controversial topic in order to give the writer the freedom to write in a persuasive manner. Some good topics for these essays include: Soda in fast food meals Breastfeeding in public Using jail to deter illegal immigrants Banning cell phones for young children

Some good topics for an essay include: Gun control Social media Personal experiences Health Social issues A life event

Are you seeking one-on-one college counseling and/or essay support? Limited spots are now available. Click here to learn more.

160 Good Argumentative Essay Topics for Students in 2024

April 3, 2024

The skill of writing an excellent argumentative essay is a crucial one for every high school or college student to master. In sum, argumentative essays teach students how to organize their thoughts logically and present them in a convincing way. This skill is helpful not only for those pursuing degrees in law , international relations , or public policy , but for any student who wishes to develop their critical thinking faculties. In this article, we’ll cover what makes a good argument essay and offer several argumentative essay topics for high school and college students. Let’s begin!

What is an Argumentative Essay?

An argumentative essay is an essay that uses research to present a reasoned argument on a particular subject . As with the persuasive essay , the purpose of an argumentative essay is to sway the reader to the writer’s position. However, a strong persuasive essay makes its point through diligent research and emotion while a strong argumentative essay should be based solely on facts, not feelings.

Moreover, each fact should be supported by clear evidence from credible sources . Furthermore, a good argumentative essay will have an easy-to-follow structure. When organizing your argumentative essay, use this format as a guide:

  • Introduction
  • Supporting body paragraphs
  • Paragraph(s) addressing common counterarguments

Argumentative Essay Format

In the introduction , the writer presents their position and thesis statement —a sentence that summarizes the paper’s main points. The body paragraphs then draw upon supporting evidence to back up this initial statement, with each paragraph focusing on its own point. The length of your paper will determine the amount of examples you need. In general, you’ll likely need at least two to three. Additionally, your examples should be as detailed as possible, citing specific research, case studies, statistics, or anecdotes.

In the counterargument paragraph , the writer acknowledges and refutes opposing viewpoints. Finally, in the conclusion , the writer restates the main argument made in the thesis statement and summarizes the points of the essay. Additionally, the conclusion may offer a final proposal to persuade the reader of the essay’s position.

How to Write an Effective Argumentative Essay, Step by Step

  • Choose your topic. Use the list below to help you pick a topic. Ideally, a good argumentative essay topic will be meaningful to you—writing is always stronger when you are interested in the subject matter. In addition, the topic should be complex with plenty of “pro” and “con” arguments. Avoid choosing a topic that is either widely accepted as fact or too narrow. For example, “Is the earth round?” would not be a solid choice.
  • Research. Use the library, the web, and any other resources to gather information about your argumentative essay topic. Research widely but smartly. As you go, take organized notes, marking the source of every quote and where it may fit in the scheme of your larger essay. Moreover, remember to look for (and research) possible counterarguments.
  • Outline . Using the argument essay format above, create an outline for your essay. Then, brainstorm a thesis statement covering your argument’s main points, and begin to put your examples in order, focusing on logical flow. It’s often best to place your strongest example last.
  • Write . Draw on your research and outline to create a first draft. Remember, your first draft doesn’t need to be perfect. (As Voltaire says, “Perfect is the enemy of good.”) Accordingly, just focus on getting the words down on paper.
  • Does my thesis statement need to be adjusted?
  • Which examples feel strongest? Weakest?
  • Do the transitions flow smoothly?
  • Do I have a strong opening paragraph?
  • Does the conclusion reinforce my argument?

Tips for Revising an Argument Essay

Evaluating your own work can be difficult, so you might consider the following strategies:

  • Read your work aloud to yourself.
  • Record yourself reading your paper, and listen to the recording.
  • Reverse outline your paper. Firstly, next to each paragraph, write a short summary of that paragraph’s main points/idea. Then, read through your reverse outline. Does it have a logical flow? If not, where should you adjust?
  • Print out your paper and cut it into paragraphs. What happens when you rearrange the paragraphs?

Good Argumentative Essay Topics for Middle School, High School, and College Students

Family argumentative essay topics.

  • Should the government provide financial incentives for families to have children to address the declining birth rate?
  • Should we require parents to provide their children with a certain level of nutrition and physical activity to prevent childhood obesity?
  • Should parents implement limits on how much time their children spend playing video games?
  • Should cell phones be banned from family/holiday gatherings?
  • Should we hold parents legally responsible for their children’s actions?
  • Should children have the right to sue their parents for neglect?
  • Should parents have the right to choose their child’s religion?
  • Are spanking and other forms of physical punishment an effective method of discipline?
  • Should courts allow children to choose where they live in cases of divorce?
  • Should parents have the right to monitor teens’ activity on social media?
  • Should parents control their child’s medical treatment, even if it goes against the child’s wishes?
  • Should parents be allowed to post pictures of their children on social media without their consent?
  • Should fathers have a legal say in whether their partners do or do not receive an abortion?
  • Can television have positive developmental benefits on children?
  • Should the driving age be raised to prevent teen car accidents?
  • Should adult children be legally required to care for their aging parents?

Education Argument Essay Topics

  • Should schools ban the use of technology like ChatGPT?
  • Are zoos unethical, or necessary for conservation and education?
  • To what degree should we hold parents responsible in the event of a school shooting?
  • Should schools offer students a set number of mental health days?
  • Should school science curriculums offer a course on combating climate change?
  • Should public libraries be allowed to ban certain books? If so, what types?
  • What role, if any, should prayer play in public schools?
  • Should schools push to abolish homework?
  • Are gifted and talented programs in schools more harmful than beneficial due to their exclusionary nature?
  • Should universities do away with Greek life?
  • Should schools remove artwork, such as murals, that some perceive as offensive?
  • Should the government grant parents the right to choose alternative education options for their children and use taxpayer funds to support these options?
  • Is homeschooling better than traditional schooling for children’s academic and social development?
  • Should we require schools to teach sex education to reduce teen pregnancy rates?
  • Should we require schools to provide sex education that includes information about both homosexual and heterosexual relationships?
  • Should colleges use affirmative action and other race-conscious policies to address diversity on campus?
  • Should public schools remove the line “under God” from the Pledge of Allegiance?
  • Should college admissions officers be allowed to look at students’ social media accounts?
  • Should schools abolish their dress codes, many of which unfairly target girls, LGBTQ students, and students of color?
  • Should schools be required to stock free period products in bathrooms?
  • Should legacy students receive preferential treatment during the college admissions process?
  • Are school “voluntourism” trips ethical?

Government Argumentative Essay Topics

  • Should the U.S. decriminalize prostitution?
  • Should the U.S. issue migration visas to all eligible applicants?
  • Should the federal government cancel all student loan debt?
  • Should we lower the minimum voting age? If so, to what?
  • Should the federal government abolish all laws penalizing drug production and use?
  • Should the U.S. use its military power to deter a Chinese invasion of Taiwan?
  • Should the U.S. supply Ukraine with further military intelligence and supplies?
  • Should the North and South of the U.S. split up into two regions?
  • Should Americans hold up nationalism as a critical value?
  • Should we permit Supreme Court justices to hold their positions indefinitely?
  • Should Supreme Court justices be democratically elected?
  • Is the Electoral College still a productive approach to electing the U.S. president?
  • Should the U.S. implement a national firearm registry?
  • Is it ethical for countries like China and Israel to mandate compulsory military service for all citizens?
  • Should the U.S. government implement a ranked-choice voting system?
  • Should institutions that benefited from slavery be required to provide reparations?
  • Based on the 1619 project, should history classes change how they teach about the founding of the U.S.?
  • Should term limits be imposed on Senators and Representatives? If so, how long?
  • Should women be allowed into special forces units?
  • Should the federal government implement stronger, universal firearm licensing laws?
  • Do public sex offender registries help prevent future sex crimes?
  • Should the government be allowed to regulate family size?
  • Should all adults legally be considered mandated reporters?
  • Should the government fund public universities to make higher education more accessible to low-income students?
  • Should the government fund universal preschool to improve children’s readiness for kindergarten?

Health/Bioethics Argumentative Essay Topics

  • Should the U.S. government offer its own healthcare plan?
  • In the case of highly infectious pandemics, should we focus on individual freedoms or public safety when implementing policies to control the spread?
  • Should we legally require parents to vaccinate their children to protect public health?
  • Is it ethical for parents to use genetic engineering to create “designer babies” with specific physical and intellectual traits?
  • Should the government fund research on embryonic stem cells for medical treatments?
  • Should the government legalize assisted suicide for terminally ill patients?
  • Should organ donation be mandatory?
  • Is cloning animals ethical?
  • Should cancer screenings start earlier? If so, what age?
  • Is surrogacy ethical?
  • Should birth control require a prescription?
  • Should minors have access to emergency contraception?
  • Should hospitals be for-profit or nonprofit institutions?

Good Argumentative Essay Topics — Continued

Social media argumentative essay topics.

  • Should the federal government increase its efforts to minimize the negative impact of social media?
  • Do social media and smartphones strengthen one’s relationships?
  • Should antitrust regulators take action to limit the size of big tech companies?
  • Should social media platforms ban political advertisements?
  • Should the federal government hold social media companies accountable for instances of hate speech discovered on their platforms?
  • Do apps such as TikTok and Instagram ultimately worsen the mental well-being of teenagers?
  • Should governments oversee how social media platforms manage their users’ data?
  • Should social media platforms like Facebook enforce a minimum age requirement for users?
  • Should social media companies be held responsible for cases of cyberbullying?
  • Should the United States ban TikTok?
  • Is social media harmful to children?
  • Should employers screen applicants’ social media accounts during the hiring process?

Religion Argument Essay Topics

  • Should religious institutions be tax-exempt?
  • Should religious symbols such as the hijab or crucifix be allowed in public spaces?
  • Should religious freedoms be protected, even when they conflict with secular laws?
  • Should the government regulate religious practices?
  • Should we allow churches to engage in political activities?
  • Religion: a force for good or evil in the world?
  • Should the government provide funding for religious schools?
  • Is it ethical for healthcare providers to deny abortions based on religious beliefs?
  • Should religious organizations be allowed to discriminate in their hiring practices?
  • Should we allow people to opt out of medical treatments based on their religious beliefs?
  • Should the U.S. government hold religious organizations accountable for cases of sexual abuse within their community?
  • Should religious beliefs be exempt from anti-discrimination laws?
  • Should religious individuals be allowed to refuse services to others based on their beliefs or lifestyles? (As in this famous case .)
  • Should the US ban religion-based federal holidays?
  • Should public schools be allowed to teach children about religious holidays?

Science Argument Essay Topics

  • Would the world be safer if we eliminated nuclear weapons?
  • Should scientists bring back extinct animals? If so, which ones?
  • Should we hold companies fiscally responsible for their carbon footprint?
  • Should we ban pesticides in favor of organic farming methods?
  • Should the federal government ban all fossil fuels, despite the potential economic impact on specific industries and communities?
  • What renewable energy source should the U.S. invest more money in?
  • Should the FDA outlaw GMOs?
  • Should we worry about artificial intelligence surpassing human intelligence?
  • Should the alternative medicine industry be more stringently regulated?
  • Is colonizing Mars a viable option?
  • Is the animal testing worth the potential to save human lives?

Sports Argument Essay Topics

  • Should colleges compensate student-athletes?
  • How should sports teams and leagues address the gender pay gap?
  • Should youth sports teams do away with scorekeeping?
  • Should we ban aggressive contact sports like boxing and MMA?
  • Should professional sports associations mandate that athletes stand during the national anthem?
  • Should high schools require their student-athletes to maintain a certain GPA?
  • Should transgender athletes compete in sports according to their gender identity?
  • Should schools ban football due to the inherent danger it poses to players?
  • Should performance-enhancing drugs be allowed in sports?
  • Do participation trophies foster entitlement and unrealistic expectations?
  • Should sports teams be divided by gender?
  • Should professional athletes be allowed to compete in the Olympics?
  • Should women be allowed on NFL teams?

Technology Argumentative Essay Topics

  • Should sites like DALL-E compensate the artists whose work it was trained on?
  • Should the federal government make human exploration of space a more significant priority?
  • Is it ethical for the government to use surveillance technology to monitor citizens?
  • Should websites require proof of age from their users? If so, what age?
  • Should we consider A.I.-generated images and text pieces of art?
  • Does the use of facial recognition technology violate individuals’ privacy?
  • Is online learning as effective as in-person learning?
  • Does computing harm the environment?
  • Should buying, sharing, and selling collected personal data be illegal?
  • Are electric cars really better for the environment?
  • Should car companies be held responsible for self-driving car accidents?
  • Should private jets be banned?
  • Do violent video games contribute to real-life violence?

Business Argument Essay Topics

  • Should the U.S. government phase out the use of paper money in favor of a fully digital currency system?
  • Should the federal government abolish its patent and copyright laws?
  • Should we replace the Federal Reserve with free-market institutions?
  • Is free-market ideology responsible for the U.S. economy’s poor performance over the past decade?
  • Will cryptocurrencies overtake natural resources like gold and silver?
  • Is capitalism the best economic system? What system would be better?
  • Should the U.S. government enact a universal basic income?
  • Should we require companies to provide paid parental leave to their employees?
  • Should the government raise the minimum wage? If so, to what?
  • Should antitrust regulators break up large companies to promote competition?
  • Is it ethical for companies to prioritize profits over social responsibility?
  • Should gig-economy workers like Uber and Lyft drivers be considered employees or independent contractors?
  • Should the federal government regulate the gig economy to ensure fair treatment of workers?
  • Should the government require companies to disclose the environmental impact of their products?
  • Should companies be allowed to fire employees based on political views or activities?
  • Should tipping practices be phased out?
  • Should employees who choose not to have children be given the same amount of paid leave as parents?
  • Should MLMs (multi-level marketing companies) be illegal?
  • Should employers be allowed to factor tattoos and personal appearance into hiring decisions?

In Conclusion – Argument Essay Topics

Using the tips above, you can effectively structure and pen a compelling argumentative essay that will wow your instructor and classmates. Remember to craft a thesis statement that offers readers a roadmap through your essay, draw on your sources wisely to back up any claims, and read through your paper several times before it’s due to catch any last-minute proofreading errors. With time, diligence, and patience, your essay will be the most outstanding assignment you’ve ever turned in…until the next one rolls around.

Looking for more fresh and engaging topics for use in the classroom? You might consider checking out the following:

  • 125 Good Debate Topics for High School Students
  • 150 Good Persuasive Speech Topics
  • 7 Best Places to Study
  • Guide to the IB Extended Essay
  • How to Write the AP Lang Rhetorical Analysis Essay
  • AP Lit Reading List
  • How to Write the AP Lang Synthesis Essay
  • 49 Most Interesting Biology Research Topics
  • High School Success

Lauren Green

With a Bachelor of Arts in Creative Writing from Columbia University and an MFA in Fiction from the Michener Center for Writers at the University of Texas at Austin, Lauren has been a professional writer for over a decade. She is the author of the chapbook  A Great Dark House  (Poetry Society of America, 2023) and a forthcoming novel (Viking/Penguin).

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Journal Buddies Jill | August 10, 2024 December 14, 2022 | Writing by Grade Level , Prompts by Grade

50 Great Essay Topics for High School Students (Updated)

Essay Topics for High School Students to Practice Writing Personal Essays- — Plus, 15 NEW bonus essay ideas and 11 personal writing ideas for writers of all ages.

Great Essay Topics for High School Students

Yes, it’s true. Our personal essay topics for High School students may be used by high schoolers AND by college students, young adults, or writers of any age.

So, welcome! 

If you need inspiration for your next personal essay homework assignment or for your personal narratives, then you have come to the right place. Read on to discover more.

Yes, We Have Personal Persuasive Essay Topics and Ideas

If they haven’t already, high school students will quickly become accustomed to writing essays—to which I say, the more writing they do, the better.

That’s because high schoolers will ultimately need to write personal essays for everything from college applications to standardized tests, so it’s essential to make sure the kids in your class are getting enough time to practice and refine their essay writing skills.

As your writers answer the 35 essay topics for high school students below, they should plan to write personal essays of about 300-1000 words in response.

Covering topics like communication, rites of passage, ethical consumption, and more, your students will have the chance to explore issues that they and their peers face each day—all within the safe confines of the page. 

Most importantly, your essay writers will reflect, grow, and prepare for the long road ahead all at the same time.

Ok, use these writing prompts and essay topics for high school students today. By doing so, you’ll help the teens in your classroom get better at personal essay writing and more skilled at expressing their deepest thoughts and ideas. Take a look and enjoy!

35 Personal Essay Topics for High School Students

  • What inspires you?
  • What inanimate object best embodies you?
  • What kind of person do you want to be—and what kind of person are you now?
  • What makes you proud?
  • What do your parents not understand about you?
  • Describe a rite of passage you’ve completed and what it meant to you.
  • What is the most important quality a person can have?
  • Write about a lesson you recently learned—and how it changed your outlook on things.
  • How has the place where you’ve grown up impacted who you are?
  • Write about the first time you felt different or alone.
  • What is the best decision you ever made?
  • What is something you could change about yourself that would make a major difference in your life?
  • What kind of impact does peer pressure have on your life?
  • Are you adventurous? Compare and contrast a time when you took a risk and a time when you played it safe.
  • Write about a time when someone told you something about yourself that changed your perspective.
  • Write about a challenge you’re facing right now—and what you plan to do about it.
  • When do you find it hardest to make good decisions? Why?
  • Are you comfortable in your body? How do media and culture affect your perception of how you look?
  • Write about the first time when you felt pressured to adhere to a particular gender role.
  • Do you identify as a feminist? Why or why not?
  • Do you consider yourself to be spiritual or religious at all? Why or why not?
  • What does “ethical consumption” mean to you—and does it matter to you?
  • What role does social media play in your life? Write about its influence—or lack thereof.

High School Essay Topics

  • Why do you think our culture fixates so heavily on celebrity gossip?
  • How do you and your friends communicate with each other?
  • What period of school (elementary school, middle school, high school, or college) do you feel is most important? Why?
  • Do you feel like you and your classmates are honest with each other? Why or why not?
  • What issue truly motivates you—and why?
  • Do you believe in “best” friends? Why or why not?
  • What is the most important thing in the world to you?
  • If you were a college admissions officer, what qualities would you look for in prospective students?
  • Write about a time when you were tested—and how you handled the tough situation.
  • When you look back on high school someday, what part will you remember fondly? Which part will you wish you could forget?
  • What is your greatest dream? Do you feel like you’ll ever achieve it?

I hope you enjoyed this list of essay topics for High School students and are able to create some amazing works of art from the topic of your choice.

15 More Essay Topics for High School Students

A teenager in today’s world hoping to get good grades with an interesting essay may opt to write about topics from the news, current affairs, or personal interest. Here are some themes they could explore from their unique point of view:

  • Internet (see 50 privacy essay topics here)
  • Climate change and global warming (see our list of 53 Earth and Environmental prompts )
  • Obesity in the United States
  • Immigration, illegal immigrants, and a path to becoming a citizen
  • Cell phones
  • Contrast essays (here are 31 Fun Compare and Contrast ideas )
  • Changes over the past decade
  • Stereotype changes in history
  • Exploration of healthcare
  • College education costs
  • Keeping exotic animals in captivity for personal use
  • The ethics of keeping wild animals in zoos
  • Selling a piece of art as an NFT
  • Implementing school uniforms in public schools in America

So get to it and use these essay topics for high school students from my blog in your next assignment for your high school students.

11 Personal Writing Ideas

And, if you still need a different prompt to help you get inspired, take a look at this list of 11 personal writing ideas:

  • Write a personal statement about yourself, your beliefs, values, and the morals you choose to live by.
  • What is the most beautiful place you have ever experienced and why?
  • What is your biggest fear?
  • What are the most difficult decisions you’ve had to make in your life thus far?
  • What is the one wrong choice you wish you could go back and change and why?
  • What is the bravest moment in your life?
  • What new understanding do you highly value and how did you learn it?
  • What about your childhood is significant so much so that you want others to know all about it?
  • What movie mirrors your life?
  • What is the ugliest thing you’ve ever experienced in your life and what did you learn from it? 
  • What accomplishment are you the proudest of and what talent do you think helped you achieve what you did? 

Helpful Links & Resources

Take a look at these free writing resources:

  • Personal Narrative Essay Topics Listed by Grade
  • Argumentative Essay Prompt Ideas for High Schoolers
  • Descriptive Essay Topics
  • 30 Examples of Topic Sentences (by grade level)
  • Top 10 Research Topics for Students
  • 24 Forward-Thinking Research Topic Ideas for Students
  • Essay plagiarism checker

Until next time, write on…

If you enjoyed these  Essay Topics for High School Students , please share them on Facebook, Twitter, and/or Pinterest. I appreciate it!

Sincerely, Jill journalbuddies.com creator and curator

High School Essay Writing Prompts

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  • Choosing Your College Essay Topic | Ideas & Examples

Choosing Your College Essay Topic | Ideas & Examples

Published on October 25, 2021 by Kirsten Courault . Revised on July 3, 2023.

A strong essay topic sets you up to write a unique, memorable college application essay . Your topic should be personal, original, and specific. Take time to brainstorm the right topic for you.

Table of contents

What makes a good topic, brainstorming questions to get started, discover the best topic for you, how to make a common topic compelling, frequently asked questions about college application essays, other interesting articles.

Here are some guidelines for a good essay topic:

  • It’s focused on you and your experience
  • It shares something different from the rest of your application
  • It’s specific and original (not many students could write a similar essay)
  • It affords the opportunity to share your positive stories and qualities

In most cases, avoid topics that

  • Reflect poorly on your character and behavior
  • Deal with a challenge or traumatic experience without a lesson learned or positive outlook

Prevent plagiarism. Run a free check.

Spend time reflecting on and writing out answers to the following questions. After doing this exercise, you should be able to identify a few strong topics for your college essay.

Topic category Reflection questions
Your background, identity, or talents
Your challenges
Your values and beliefs
Your role models
Your accomplishments and goals
Your academic and personal interests
Your character and qualities would your friends and family use to describe you?

Writing about yourself can be difficult. If you’re struggling to identify your topic, try these two strategies.

Start with your qualities

After identifying your positive qualities or values, brainstorm stories that demonstrate these qualities.

Qualities Stories
Loyalty and concern for others on nights when she was sick from her chemo treatment
Hard work and commitment
Selflessness and sacrifice

Start with a story

If you already have some memorable stories in mind that you’d like to write about, think about which qualities and values you can demonstrate with those stories.

Stories Qualities
Resilience and growth
Patience and empathy
and getting my friends to participate in an episode where salmon was the secret ingredient Creativity and initiative

Talk it through

To make sure you choose the right topic, ask for advice from trusted friends or family members who know you well. They can help you brainstorm ideas and remember stories, and they can give you feedback on your potential essay topics.

You can also work with a guidance counselor, teacher, or other mentor to discuss which ideas are most promising. If you plan ahead , you can even workshop multiple draft essays to see which topic works best.

If you do choose a common topic, ensure you have the following to craft a unique essay:

  • Surprising or unexpected story arcs
  • Interesting insight or connections
  • An advanced writing style

Here are a few examples of how to craft strong essays from cliché topics.

Common topic Why it’s difficult How to make it work
Extracurricular activities Your application already lists your extracurriculars
Your role model It’s not about you
A traumatic experience or death in the family Negative and may seem like you’re trying to win sympathy points
Struggling with new life situations (moving homes, parents’ divorce) Cliché narrative and insight
Becoming a better person after community service, traveling, or summer camp Cliché narrative and insight

Here’s a checklist you can use to confirm that your college essay topic is right for you.

College essay topic checklist

My topic is focused on me, not on someone else.

My topic shares something different from the rest of my application.

My topic is specific and original (not many students could write a similar essay).

My topic reflects positively on my character and behavior.

If I chose to write about a traumatic or challenging experience, my essay will focus on how I overcame it or gained insight.

If I chose a common topic, my essay will have a surprising story arc, interesting insight, and/or an advanced writing style.

Good topic!

It looks like your topic is a good choice. It's specific, it avoids clichés, and it reflects positively on you.

There are no foolproof college essay topics —whatever your topic, the key is to write about it effectively. However, a good topic

  • Is meaningful, specific, and personal to you
  • Focuses on you and your experiences
  • Reveals something beyond your test scores, grades, and extracurriculars
  • Is creative and original

Yes—admissions officers don’t expect everyone to have a totally unique college essay topic . But you must differentiate your essay from others by having a surprising story arc, an interesting insight, and/or an advanced writing style .

To decide on a good college essay topic , spend time thoughtfully answering brainstorming questions. If you still have trouble identifying topics, try the following two strategies:

  • Identify your qualities → Brainstorm stories that demonstrate these qualities
  • Identify memorable stories → Connect your qualities to these stories

You can also ask family, friends, or mentors to help you brainstorm topics, give feedback on your potential essay topics, or recall key stories that showcase your qualities.

Most topics are acceptable for college essays if you can use them to demonstrate personal growth or a lesson learned. However, there are a few difficult topics for college essays that should be avoided. Avoid topics that are:

  • Overly personal (e.g. graphic details of illness or injury, romantic or sexual relationships)
  • Not personal enough (e.g. broad solutions to world problems, inspiring people or things)
  • Too negative (e.g. an in-depth look at your flaws, put-downs of others, criticizing the need for a college essay)
  • Too boring (e.g. a resume of your academic achievements and extracurriculars)
  • Inappropriate for a college essay (e.g. illegal activities, offensive humor, false accounts of yourself, bragging about privilege)

Here’s a brief list of college essay topics that may be considered cliché:

  • Extracurriculars, especially sports
  • Role models
  • Dealing with a personal tragedy or death in the family
  • Struggling with new life situations (immigrant stories, moving homes, parents’ divorce)
  • Becoming a better person after community service, traveling, or summer camp
  • Overcoming a difficult class
  • Using a common object as an extended metaphor

It’s easier to write a standout essay with a unique topic. However, it’s possible to make a common topic compelling with interesting story arcs, uncommon connections, and an advanced writing style.

If you want to know more about academic writing , effective communication , or parts of speech , make sure to check out some of our other articles with explanations and examples.

Academic writing

  • Writing process
  • Transition words
  • Passive voice
  • Paraphrasing

 Communication

  • How to end an email
  • Ms, mrs, miss
  • How to start an email
  • I hope this email finds you well
  • Hope you are doing well

 Parts of speech

  • Personal pronouns
  • Conjunctions

Cite this Scribbr article

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Courault, K. (2023, July 03). Choosing Your College Essay Topic | Ideas & Examples. Scribbr. Retrieved September 9, 2024, from https://www.scribbr.com/college-essay/essay-topic/

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Are you a student struggling to find interesting and engaging essay topics for your next essay?

Choosing the right essay topic can be a daunting task. It often feels overwhelming to find a topic that is both captivating and meets the requirements of your essay. 

Without a compelling topic, you may struggle to engage your readers and convey your ideas effectively.

But fear not! In this blog post, we provide a list of topics to choose from. 

By exploring these diverse topics, students will not only find inspiration but also develop their critical thinking and analytical skills.

Let's dive in and explore the endless possibilities together!

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Good Essay Topics for Students

A good essay topic will make your writing phase easy and help you get good grades from the teacher. When you pick the essay topic, make sure it is interesting and meets your teacher’s requirements.

We compiled some simple essay topics that will help you in creating a great essay. 

Essay Topics for Kids

  • Describe your worst nightmare.
  • Football vs. baseball.
  • Why is math hard?
  • How to help animals?
  • If I Could Fly.
  • Benefits of drinking tea Vs. Coffee.
  • Is your school day too short?
  • Our school library.
  • What do you like best about winter?
  • Christmas Eve with family and friends. 

Essay Topics for Grade 3 

  • My Favorite Season
  • My Best Friend
  • If I Were a Superhero
  • A Place I Like to Visit
  • My Dream Job
  • The Best Day of My Life
  • My Favorite Animal
  • The Importance of Kindness
  • My Favorite Book

Essay Topics for Grade 4 

  • My last summer vacation.
  • What is the funniest thing you've ever seen?
  • How to prevent bullying?
  • Why is it important to be honest and not lie? 
  • What do you like about how you look?
  • What is your favorite television show, and why?
  • Can you live without television?
  • How are we affecting the environment?
  • Importance of recycling.
  • If I Could Have a Superpower

Essay Topics for Grade 5 

  • Write a poem about your favorite season.
  • Skating and running have a lot in common.
  • Who is your hero, and why?
  • What if the president were a kid?
  • Being rich vs. being famous.
  • Cereal is not a healthy breakfast.
  • A random act of kindness.
  • Are boys too dominating?
  • The rainy season.
  • The Value of Honesty

Essay Topics for Middle School Students 

  • What is your favorite children’s literature?
  • From your point of view, what factors contribute to a good movie?
  • Write about a vacation that you will never forget.
  • Should people be allowed to keep exotic animals like chimpanzees or tigers?
  • Should sports marketing professionals earn more money?
  • Difference between effects of books and video games on morals.
  • How many friends do teens need to have?
  • How do online high schools compare to traditional education?
  • What are the best informative essay topics?
  • Should students be able to pick their teachers?

Essay Topics for Grade 6 

  • Tom and Jerry are the best cartoons.
  • Reading is more important than math.
  • A field trip that your class took.
  • Annual day in my school.
  • How to deal with a bully
  • A world where dogs take over. 
  • Should boys and girls be in separate classes?
  • Describe your future life.
  • How should parents be an example to their children?
  • Technology and education.

Essay Topics for Grade 7 

  • The value of volunteerism
  • The impact of social media on relationships
  • A good diet means good health.
  • Zoos are unsafe for young children.
  • My favorite academic writing website.
  • Why is it important to set goals?
  • What is the best decision you ever made?
  • Schools and colleges should minimize the fees.
  • Effects of social media on youth.
  • How fair is our election process?

Essay Topics for Class 8 

  • The importance of financial literacy
  • Exploring gender equality.
  • Technology makes people's lives better.
  • Is the death penalty right?
  • Youth activism
  • The power of literature
  • Do you prefer weekdays or weekends?
  • The matter of age in a relationship.
  • Do your teachers use technology well?
  • Do you make friends slowly or quickly? 

Essay Topics for Class 9 

  • The impact of social media on young people's mental health
  • Should school uniforms be mandatory? Why or why not?
  • How can we reduce bullying in schools?
  • The importance of physical exercise for students
  • Is homeschooling a better option than traditional schooling?
  • The benefits and drawbacks of online learning
  • The impact of technology on communication skills
  • The impact of fast food on public health
  • The effects of climate change on the environment
  • The importance of conserving natural resources for future generations

Essay Topics for Class 10 

  • The impact of chemical fertilizers on the environment
  • The role of mathematics in daily life 
  • The importance of vaccines in preventing diseases
  • The physics of roller coasters
  • The impact of social media on mental health
  • The benefits of learning a second language
  • The impact of computers on modern society
  • The role of art and music in promoting mental health
  • The history and significance of the Indian Constitution
  • The impact of globalization on Indian economy 

Essay Topics for O levels 

  • Why is education important for personal and societal development?
  • How has social media changed the way we communicate and interact with one another?
  • How can sports help individuals develop discipline, teamwork, and leadership skills?
  • What are some of the drawbacks of technological advancements in our daily lives?
  • What can individuals and governments do to promote sustainable development?
  • How has globalization affected cultural diversity and individual identity?
  • Why is it important to prioritize mental health?
  • Should animals be used for scientific research?
  • How have historical events shaped the world we live in today?
  • How can volunteerism and community service benefit both individuals and society?

Essay Topics for High School Students

  • Does social media negatively impact teenagers’ social lives?
  • Do you always have your phone or tablet at your side?
  • Should children be punished for inappropriate behavior?
  • What is the most important thing in the world to you?
  • Is there a connection between real-life violence and video games?
  • Ways to deal with insomnia and other sleeping disorders.
  • Do advancements in modern technologies ruin childhood?   
  • The implementation of capital punishment should be adopted universally.
  • Methods of preventing excessive air pollution from factories.
  • Pros and cons of getting admission to an expensive university.

Essay Topics for Grade 12 

  • The Benefits and Challenges of Online Learning
  • The Ethics of Artificial Intelligence
  • The Role of Social Media in Politics
  • The Importance of Diversity and Inclusion in the Workplace
  • The Impact of Climate Change on Global Health
  • The Ethics of Genetic Engineering
  • The Pros and Cons of Universal Basic Income
  • The Future of Space Exploration
  • The Value of Intercultural Competence
  • The Role of Art and Culture in Society

Essay Topics for College Students 

  • What are the advantages the US educational system offers to international students?
  • Explain the possible consequences of dropping out of college.
  • Social media has played a big role in increasing business opportunities.
  • What is one thing you want to accomplish in college?
  • How would you feel about a computer grading your essays?
  • What is an extracurricular activity that has been meaningful to you?
  • Professional athletes are overpaid.
  • Do you know the secret to Taylor Swift's popularity?
  • The day you decided to change your life.
  • Can you succeed in life working in the field of art?

Essay Topics for University Level 

  • The Ethics of Human Cloning
  • The Impact of Artificial Intelligence on Employment
  • The Role of Mass Media in Shaping Public Opinion
  • The Relationship between Technology and Privacy
  • The Pros and Cons of Renewable Energy
  • The Future of Healthcare
  • The Impact of Globalization on Economic Inequality
  • The Ethics of Animal Rights
  • The Importance of Cultural Diversity in Education
  • The Role of Government in Addressing Climate Change

COVID-19 Topics

As the world continues to recover from the effects of the pandemic, it's worth examining some of the topics that emerged during this unprecedented time.

Here are some potential COVID-19 topics to reflect on:

  • How does the current situation compare with other major outbreaks in history?
  • What steps need to be taken now, or soon inaction might lead?
  • How do you get COVID-19?
  • Where do coronaviruses come from?
  • School life during COVID-19
  • How is coronavirus diagnosed?
  • Mental health challenges during the COVID-19 pandemic
  • Pros and cons of self-isolation
  • The effects of Covid-19 on business
  • A person or special friend you lost due to COVID-19

Essay Topics by Category

Here are some essay topics that can be categorized into different types of essays.

Good Argumentative Essay Topics

An  argumentative essay  presents arguments for and against an issue. You have to show both sides of the issue, but you only need to focus on the side that you support the most.

Some good argumentative essay topics are below:

  • What should be done to reduce income inequality?
  • Should self-driving cars be legal?
  • Should companies market to children?
  • Is it still important to teach English in schools?
  • Are emojis beneficial or destructive to communication?
  • Should women be allowed to fight on the front lines alongside men?
  • Is cheese a good enough substitute for milk?
  • Should the United States have one official language?
  • Are the public school policies reasonable?
  • The sales and production of tobacco should be made illegal.

Controversial Argumentative Essay Topics 

Essay topics are sometimes controversial. For your help, check this list that gives you ideas for a great essay.  

  • Are hot dogs bad for you?
  • Should euthanasia be illegal?
  • Paper books vs. E-books.
  • Are school uniforms advantageous?
  • Should torture be acceptable?
  • Sports make you a good student.
  • Is bottled water safe?
  • Monarchy: pros and cons.
  • Is prostitution a crime?
  • Should gym classes be required?

Funny Argumentative Essay Topics 

Do you want to make your essay more interesting? Why not try a funny topic? Humor is a great way to get your reader's attention and keep them interested in what you have to say.

Look at the below-mentioned interesting essay topics and write a great one.

  • Why is wearing braces fun?
  • Why are dogs, irreplaceable friends?
  • Can a diamond be a girl’s best friend?
  • Does Google make us smart?
  • Things your mother is always saying.
  • How to deal with breakups?
  • Is music class necessary?
  • Why do women like evening outs?
  • Can I join your family?
  • How not to sleep?

If there's a specific topic or type of writing that interests you, be sure to check more argumentative essay topics .

Persuasive Essay Topics

A  persuasive essay  is a type of writing that you are often asked to do in high school, college, and university. It shows how well you can persuade people with facts and logic.

Here are some topics that you can use for your help.

  • Should healthcare be universal?
  • Should students learn cursive writing in school?
  • School should take place in the evenings.
  • What is the funniest movie you’ve ever seen?
  • Do hobbies help people with their careers?
  • How does it benefit nature to reduce human paper consumption?
  • Dreamers must obtain permission to stay in the US.
  • Schools should have playtime in between classes.
  • Churches should pay taxes too.
  • Is solar energy worth the cost?

Continue reading our blog persuasive essay topics and get some more interesting topics. 

Narrative Essay Topics

A  narrative essay  is a type of writing that tells the writer's story and experiences. The writer's point of view and life events entertain the audience in this essay type.

Below are some good narrative essay topics for your help.

  • The story of how you got your first pet.
  • How did you write your first essay?
  • The beginning of a friendship or relationship.
  • What I remember most about my childhood.
  • The best songwriters of modern times.
  • Write about a time when you felt on top of the world.
  • Growing up in New York.
  • How much time do you spend alone?
  • A day in the life of a flight attendant.
  • Did you like any particular subject when in school?

You can also get more interesting narrative essay topics and choose the one that suits your needs. 

Compare and Contrast Essay Topics

In a  compare and contrast essay , you show how two things are similar and different. This essay type is easy to write because you don’t need to use facts, but you have to express your thoughts.

The following are the topics for your ease.

  • Mobile healthcare units or stationary clinics.
  • Formulas of two different chemical reactions.
  • Public vs. private transportation.
  • Chocolate and marmalade candies.
  • How do education and employment compare?
  • British colonization and Spanish colonization.
  • Eating fast food against consuming healthy meals.
  • African countries vs. European countries.
  • Differences and similarities: Writing emails and letters.
  • Plagiarizing content vs. cheating on exams.

You can also check more compare and contrast essay topics an d get ideas for your next essay. 

Cause and Effect Essay Topics

It is fascinating to discuss the effects and causes of two subjects in an essay. An essay that discusses the effects and causes of two subjects enhances the students’ creative and analytical skills.

Take a look at the below topics and choose the best one for your essay.

  • How happy relationships affect a person.
  • Coke and Pepsi: Their influence on our health.
  • What causes social media sites to lose popularity?
  • Why would you mix Coke and Pepsi at breakfast?
  • How does college differ from university?
  • Explain the outcomes of low social status.
  • Microplastic in food damages human health.
  • What are the main reasons couples get divorced?
  • What are the consequences of drinking and driving?
  • How does social media help in overcoming shyness?

Choose from the best cause and effect essay topics for your academic assignment. 

Informative Essay Topics

An  informative essay  is a type of essay that provides detailed information to the readers. This type of essay requires good research skills.

Check out the below topics for your informative essay assignment.

  • Kindness is the utmost personal trait.
  • Things that cause eating disorders.
  • What is the importance of oxygen?
  • How can tanning be dangerous for your skin?
  • The events that led up to World War II.
  • Trump presidency outcomes.
  • The important human health vitamins.
  • How to clean your room?
  • Eating Maggi destroys your health.
  • Importance of vitamin C.

You can also get more informative essay topics from our blog for your essay assignment.  

Research Essay Topics

When you write a research essay, you present an issue based on the work of scholars and scientists.

Here are some interesting research essay topics that you can use or alter according to your teacher’s requirements:

  • What is the future of religion?
  • Effects of homeschooling.
  • What are the pros and cons of cloud computing?
  • How does a search engine work?
  • Should prayer be a part of high school?
  • Can bullying be a cause for murder?
  • Effects of vaccination.
  • How do behavioral patterns develop?
  • The importance of mental health.
  • Explain the art of Ancient Egypt.

Expository Essay Topics

An expository essay's main goal is to explain a process or a cause-and-effect relationship. You have to use facts and research to support what you say. The biggest difference between an expository essay  and other types of essays is that the point you are trying to argue is based on analysis, not just your opinion.

Some good expository essay topics below for your essay assignment:

  • Explain why teens do drugs.
  • How would you stop racism?
  • How was your first day at school?
  • Explain how a seed becomes a plant?
  • Describe the state of the cure for cancer
  • What makes a good friend?
  • Explain how tobacco companies target teenagers.
  • How to become a leader?
  • Why do kids lie?
  • Autocorrect could ruin your life.

Explore more expository essay topics and begin your essay with ease!

Definition Essay Topics

In a  definition essay , the essay writer gives a clear and concise definition of a term. In most cases, these essays are about terms that are not concrete and which can have different meanings depending on the culture or personal perspective.

Here are some excellent topics for a definition essay:

  • Does money matter?
  • Is one friend enough?
  • What is honesty?
  • Social media
  • Define smelly cats/
  • What is college for you?
  • What is physics?
  • Are bananas fruit?
  • Explain the word “agility.”

Get more outstanding definition essay topics from our blog and make your topic selection process easy.

Descriptive Essay Topics

A  descriptive essay  focuses on describing details of a particular person, place, event, etc. Descriptive essays are usually about personal experiences or things that are vivid in the writer's memory.

Any topic can be used for a descriptive essay. For your help, we gathered some great topics, so take a look at them and pick the best one.

  • Describe a lucky object.
  • The best singer
  • My first flight
  • My favorite singer
  • Going fishing.
  • The traffic signal
  • An inspiring view
  • Best summer vacation
  • Piece of art

If you're looking for more great descriptive essay topics , check out this blog. 

Personal Essay Topics

A personal essay is a story about your life. It should be written in a friendly, intimate tone. The essay should reflect your character and examine the emotions you have felt because of certain events that have happened to you.

Here is a great list of topics for your help.

  • Your biggest loss
  • What makes you a good coworker or friend?
  • How did you get hurt?
  • What was your most precious childhood possession?
  • Why do people like karaoke?
  • Your bucket list of wishes
  • Why do some people avoid vaccines?
  • Child discipline
  • Your family traditions.
  • Why don’t I smoke?

Problem Solution Essay Topics

A  problem-solution essay  is a persuasive type of writing. It presents a problem and then describes it in detail. The writer must show how to fix the problem, and they must be convincing. The essay must have strong evidence and arguments that prove that the given solution is the best.

Below are some topics that can make your essay great.

  • What obstacles prevent people from getting help?
  • Should college athletes be paid?
  • How can schools promote tolerance?
  • Educating women on self-defense
  • Helping young people create a healthy family.
  • What are the ways of avoiding cheating?
  • The films are just not very good
  • Cyberbullying
  • Business problems
  • Rising costs of bills

Classification Essay Topics

A  classification essay  is a formal piece of writing that shows how you group things together. You might put things with similar characteristics together or with things that are different.

Check out some great essay topics.

  • Types of Music Genres
  • Healthy breakfast foods
  • Types of fashion brands.
  • Reasons why graffiti is an art form.
  • Types of lectures
  • Portable music players
  • Types of Food Cuisines
  • Types of therapies
  • Examples of women
  • Types of internet commerce

Proposal Essay Topics

A proposal essay is a type of essay where you propose an idea and try to convince the reader why it is a good or bad idea.

You can pick any of the topics from the below-mentioned list and write a great essay.

  • Can vaccines cause autism?
  • The impact of gender roles in Roman society.
  • A program for attracting more men nurses.
  • What tests should be eliminated?
  • Offer simple ways to deal with stray animals.
  • Best ways to handle overbearing parents.
  • Do statistical arguments in sports help?
  • Turning points in personal life
  • Should teens have jobs?
  • How to decrease the number of smokers?

Essay Topics on Technology 

  • The impact of blockchain technology on supply chain management
  • The ethics of using drones in military operations
  • The role of technology in promoting sustainable agriculture
  • The use of biometrics in modern security systems
  • The impact of technology on the music industry
  • The benefits and drawbacks of self-driving cars
  • The potential of nanotechnology in medical research
  • The impact of technology on modern art
  • The role of artificial intelligence in improving cybersecurity
  • The impact of technology on the gig economy

Tips for Choosing the Best Topics 

Choosing the perfect essay topic is one of those things you really should do before starting your essay. If it's not something that interests or excites you, then how will anyone else find any passion in reading about it?

A good backbone for an interesting essay starts with a strong idea. For your help, we gathered some tips that will help you in choosing a good essay topic. 

  • Identify your interests: Choose a topic that you are interested in or passionate about. This will make the research and writing process more enjoyable and engaging for you.
  • Consider your audience: Think about who will be reading your essay. Choose a topic that is relevant and interesting to your audience.
  • Research your options: Do some preliminary research on your topic options. Ensure that there is enough information available to write a comprehensive essay.
  • Narrow your focus: If a topic seems too broad or general, try to narrow it down to a specific aspect or angle that you can explore in more detail.
  • Brainstorm multiple ideas: Generate a list of potential essay topics and then narrow down the options based on your interests, research, and audience.
  • Be creative: Don't be afraid to explore unique or unconventional topics that may not have been covered extensively before. This can help your essay stand out and capture the reader's attention.

Now, you get a list of several essay topics for your college essay assignment. You can experiment with generating new topics using an AI essay writer as well. However, if you need help in the essay writing phase, simply consult CollegeEssay.org .

Our professional essay writers will help you in writing top-notch essays. So, place your " write my essay " request now and get an experienced writer’s help for your assignments.

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Barbara is a highly educated and qualified author with a Ph.D. in public health from an Ivy League university. She has spent a significant amount of time working in the medical field, conducting a thorough study on a variety of health issues. Her work has been published in several major publications.

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Essay Topics – List of 500+ Essay Writing Topics and Ideas

List of 500+ essay writing topics and ideas.

Essay topics in English can be difficult to come up with. While writing essays , many college and high school students face writer’s block and have a hard time to think about topics and ideas for an essay. In this article, we will list out many good essay topics from different categories like argumentative essays, essays on technology, environment essays for students from 5th, 6th, 7th, 8th grades. Following list of essay topics are for all – from kids to college students. We have the largest collection of essays. An essay is nothing but a piece of content which is written from the perception of writer or author. Essays are similar to a story, pamphlet, thesis, etc. The best thing about Essay is you can use any type of language – formal or informal. It can biography, the autobiography of anyone. Following is a great list of 100 essay topics. We will be adding 400 more soon!

But Before that you may wanna read some awesome Essay Writing Tips here .

500+ essay topics for students and children

Get the Huge list of 100+ Speech Topics here

Argumentative Essay Topics

  • Should plastic be banned?
  • Pollution due to Urbanization
  • Education should be free
  • Should Students get limited access to the Internet?
  • Selling Tobacco should be banned
  • Smoking in public places should be banned
  • Facebook should be banned
  • Students should not be allowed to play PUBG

Essay Topics on Technology

  • Wonder Of Science
  • Mobile Phone

Essay Topics on Festivals on Events

  • Independence Day (15 August)
  • Teachers Day
  • Summer Vacation
  • Children’s Day
  • Swachh Bharat Abhiyan
  • Janmashtami
  • Republic Day

Essay Topics on Education

  • Education Essay
  • Importance of Education
  • Contribution of Technology in Education

paragraph essay topics

Essay Topics on Famous Leaders

  • Mahatma Gandhi
  • APJ Abdul Kalam
  • Jawaharlal Nehru
  • Swami Vivekananda
  • Mother Teresa
  • Rabindranath Tagore
  • Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel
  • Subhash Chandra Bose
  • Abraham Lincoln
  • Martin Luther King
  • Lal Bahadur Shashtri

Essay Topics on Animals and Birds

  • My Favorite Animal

Essays Topics About Yourself

  • My Best Friend
  • My Favourite Teacher
  • My Aim In Life
  • My Favourite Game – Badminton
  • My Favourite Game – Essay
  • My Favourite Book
  • My Ambition
  • How I Spent My Summer Vacation
  • India of My Dreams
  • My School Life
  • I Love My Family
  • My Favourite Subject
  • My Favourite Game Badminton
  • My Father My Hero
  • My School Library
  • My Favourite Author
  • My plans for summer vacation

Essay Topics Based on Environment and Nature

  • Global Warming
  • Environment
  • Air Pollution
  • Environmental Pollution
  • Water Pollution
  • Rainy Season
  • Climate Change
  • Importance Of Trees
  • Winter Season
  • Deforestation
  • Natural Disasters
  • Save Environment
  • Summer Season
  • Trees Our Best Friend Essay In English

Essay Topics Based on Proverbs

  • Health Is Wealth
  • A Stitch in Time Saves Nine
  • An Apple a Day Keeps Doctor Away
  • Where there is a will, there is way
  • Time and Tide wait for none

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Essay Topics for Students from 6th, 7th, 8th Grade

  • Noise Pollution
  • Environment Pollution
  • Women Empowerment
  • Time and Tide Wait for none
  • Science and Technology
  • Importance of Sports
  • Sports and Games
  • Time Management
  • Cleanliness is next to Godliness
  • Cleanliness
  • Rome was not Built in a Day
  • Unemployment
  • Clean India
  • Cow Essay In English
  • Describe Yourself
  • Festivals Of India
  • Ganesh Chaturthi
  • Healthy Food
  • Importance Of Water
  • Plastic Pollution
  • Value of Time
  • Honesty is the Best Policy
  • Gandhi Jayanti
  • Human Rights
  • Knowledge Is Power
  • Same Sex Marriage
  • Childhood Memories
  • Cyber Crime
  • Kalpana Chawla
  • Punctuality
  • Rani Lakshmi Bai
  • Spring Season
  • Unity In Diversity
  • Artificial Intelligence
  • Online Shopping
  • Indian Culture
  • Healthy Lifestyle
  • Indian Education System
  • Disaster Management
  • Environmental Issues
  • Freedom Fighters
  • Grandparents
  • Save Fuel For Better Environment
  • Importance Of Newspaper
  • Lal Bahadur Shastri
  • Raksha Bandhan
  • World Environment Day
  • Narendra Modi
  • What Is Religion
  • Charity Begins at Home
  • A Journey by Train
  • Ideal student
  • Save Water Save Earth
  • Indian Farmer
  • Safety of Women in India
  • Sarvepalli Radhakrishnan
  • Capital Punishment
  • College Life
  • Natural Resources
  • Peer Pressure
  • Nature Vs Nurture
  • Romeo And Juliet
  • Generation Gap
  • Makar Sankranti
  • Constitution of India
  • Girl Education
  • Importance of Family
  • Importance of Independence Day
  • Brain Drain
  • A Friend In Need Is A Friend Indeed
  • Action Speaks Louder Than Words
  • All That Glitters Is Not Gold
  • Bhagat Singh
  • Demonetization
  • Agriculture
  • Importance of Discipline
  • Population Explosion
  • Poverty in India
  • Uses Of Mobile Phones
  • Water Scarcity
  • Train Journey
  • Land Pollution
  • Environment Protection
  • Indian Army
  • Uses of Internet
  • All that Glitters is not Gold
  • Balanced Diet
  • Blood Donation
  • Digital India
  • Dussehra Essay
  • Energy Conservation
  • National Integration
  • Railway Station
  • Sachin Tendulkar
  • Health And Hygiene
  • Importance Of Forest
  • Indira Gandhi
  • Laughter Is The Best Medicine
  • Career Goals
  • Mental Health
  • Save Water Save Life
  • International Yoga Day
  • Winter Vacation
  • Soil Pollution
  • Every Cloud Has A Silver Lining
  • Indian Culture And Tradition
  • Unity Is Strength
  • Unity is Diversity
  • Wildlife Conservation
  • Cruelty To Animals
  • Nelson Mandela
  • Of Mice And Men
  • Organ Donation
  • Life in a Big City
  • Democracy in India
  • Waste Management
  • Biodiversity
  • Afforestation
  • Female Foeticide
  • Harmful Effects Of Junk Food
  • Rain Water Harvesting
  • Save Electricity
  • Social Media
  • Social Networking Sites
  • Sound Pollution
  • Procrastination
  • Life in an Indian Village
  • Life in Big City
  • Population Growth
  • World Population Day
  • Greenhouse Effect
  • Statue of Unity
  • Traffic Jam
  • Beti Bachao Beti Padhao
  • Importance of Good Manners
  • Good Manners
  • Cyber Security
  • Green Revolution
  • Health And Fitness
  • Incredible India
  • Make In India
  • Surgical Strike
  • Triple Talaq
  • A Good Friend
  • Importance of Friends in our Life
  • Should Plastic be Banned
  • Nationalism
  • Traffic Rules
  • Effects of Global Warming
  • Fundamental Rights
  • Solar System
  • National Constitution Day
  • Good Mother
  • Importance of Trees in our Life
  • City Life Vs Village Life
  • Importance of Communication
  • Conservation of Nature
  • Man vs. Machine
  • Indian Economy
  • Mothers Love
  • Importance of National Integration
  • Black Money
  • Greenhouse effect
  • Untouchability
  • Self Discipline
  • Global Terrorism
  • Conservation of Biodiversity
  • Newspaper and Its Uses
  • World Health Day
  • Conservation of Natural Resources
  • A Picnic with Family
  • Indian Heritage
  • Status of Women in India
  • Child is Father of the Man
  • Reading is Good Habit
  • Plastic Bag
  • Terrorism in India
  • Library and Its Uses
  • Life on Mars
  • Urbanization
  • Pollution Due to Diwali
  • National Flag of India
  • Vocational Education
  • Importance of Tree Plantation
  • Summer Camp
  • Vehicle Pollution
  • Women Education in India
  • Seasons in India
  • Freedom of the Press
  • Caste System
  • Environment and Human Health
  • Mountain Climbing
  • Depletion of Natural Resources
  • Ishwar Chandra Vidyasagar
  • Health Education
  • Effects of Deforestation
  • Life after School
  • Starvation in India
  • Jan Dhan Yojana
  • Impact of Privatization
  • Election Commission of India
  • Election and Democracy
  • Prevention of Global Warming
  • Impact of Cinema in Life
  • Subhas Chandra Bose
  • Dowry System
  • Ganesh Chaturthi Festival
  • Role of Science in Making India
  • Impact of Global Warming on Oceans
  • Pollution due to Festivals
  • Ambedkar Jayanti
  • Ek Bharat Shreshtha Bharat
  • Family Planning in India
  • Democracy vs Dictatorship
  • National Festivals of India
  • Sri Aurobindo
  • Casteism in India
  • Organ trafficking
  • Consequences of Global Warming
  • Role of Human Activities in Global Warming
  • Issues and Problems faced by Women in India
  • Role of Judiciary in the Country Today
  • Sugamya Bharat Abhiyan
  • PUBG Mobile Game Addiction
  • Role of Youths in Nation Building
  • Value of Oxygen and Water in Life/Earth
  • Farmer Suicides in India
  • Start-up India
  • Pollution Due to Firecrackers
  • Life of Soldiers
  • Child Labour
  • Save Girl Child
  • Morning Walk
  • My School Fete
  • Essay on Financial Literacy
  • Essay On Sustainable Development
  • Essay On Punjab
  • Essay On Travel
  • My Home Essay
  • Child Marriage Essay
  • Importance Of English Language Essay
  • Essay On Mass Media
  • Essay On Horse
  • Essay On Police
  • Essay On Eid
  • Essay On Solar Energy
  • Animal Essay
  • Essay On Mango
  • Gender Discrimination Essay
  • Essay On Advertisement
  • My First Day At School Essay
  • My Neighborhood Essay
  • True Friendship Essay
  • Work Is Worship Essay
  • Essay On Self Confidence
  • Essay On Superstition
  • Essay On Bangalore
  • Sex Vs Gender Essay
  • Essay On Social Issues
  • Time Is Money Essay
  • Essay About Grandmothers
  • Essay On Hard Work
  • First Day Of School Essay
  • Flowers Essay
  • My Favorite Food Essay
  • Essay on Birds
  • Essay on Humanity
  • Essay on Sun
  • Essay on Kargil War
  • Every Cloud Has a Silver Lining Essay
  • Francis Bacon Essays
  • Importance of Cleanliness Essay
  • My Sister Essay
  • Self Introduction Essay
  • Solar Energy Essay
  • Sports Day Essa
  • Value Of Education Essay
  • Essay On Isro
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  • Essay On Reservation In India
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  • Essay On Smoking
  • Essay On Stress Management
  • Essay On William Shakespeare
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  • Overpopulation Essay
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  • Essay on River
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50 Great Argumentative Essay Topics for Any Assignment

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General Education

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At some point, you’re going to be asked to write an argumentative essay. An argumentative essay is exactly what it sounds like—an essay in which you’ll be making an argument, using examples and research to back up your point.

But not all argumentative essay topics are created equal. Not only do you have to structure your essay right to have a good impact on the reader, but even your choice of subject can impact how readers feel about your work.

In this article, we’ll cover the basics of writing argumentative essays, including what argumentative essays are, how to write a good one, and how to pick a topic that works for you. Then check out a list of argumentative essay ideas to help you get started.

What Is an Argumentative Essay?

An argumentative essay is one that makes an argument through research. These essays take a position and support it through evidence, but, unlike many other kinds of essays, they are interested in expressing a specific argument supported by research and evidence.

A good argumentative essay will be based on established or new research rather than only on your thoughts and feelings. Imagine that you’re trying to get your parents to raise your allowance, and you can offer one of two arguments in your favor:

You should raise my allowance because I want you to.

You should raise my allowance because I’ve been taking on more chores without complaining.

The first argument is based entirely in feelings without any factual backup, whereas the second is based on evidence that can be proven. Your parents are more likely to respond positively to the second argument because it demonstrates that you have done something to earn the increased allowance. Similarly, a well-researched and reasoned argument will show readers that your point has a basis in fact, not just feelings.

The standard five-paragraph essay is common in writing argumentative essays, but it’s not the only way to write one. An argumentative essay is typically written in one of two formats, the Toulmin model or the Rogerian model.

The Toulmin model is the most common, comprised of an introduction with a claim (otherwise known as a thesis), with data to support it. This style of essay will also include rebuttals, helping to strengthen your argument by anticipating counterarguments.

The Rogerian model analyzes two sides of an argument and reaches a conclusion after weighing the strengths and weaknesses of each.

Both essay styles rely on well-reasoned logic and supporting evidence to prove a point, just in two different ways.

The important thing to note about argumentative essays as opposed to other kinds of essays is that they aim to argue a specific point rather than to explain something or to tell a story. While they may have some things in common with analytical essays, the primary difference is in their objective—an argumentative essay aims to convince someone of something, whereas an analytical essay contextualizes a topic with research.

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What Makes a Good Argumentative Essay?

To write an effective argumentative essay, you need to know what a good one looks like. In addition to a solid structure, you’ll need an argument, a strong thesis, and solid research.

An Argument

Unlike other forms of essays, you are trying to convince your reader of something. You’re not just teaching them a concept or demonstrating an idea—you’re constructing an argument to change the readers’ thinking.

You’ll need to develop a good argument, which encompasses not just your main point, but also all the pieces that make it up.

Think beyond what you are saying and include how you’re saying it. How will you take an idea and turn it into a complex and well thought out argument that is capable of changing somebody’s mind?

A Strong Thesis

The thesis is the core of your argument. What specific message are you trying to get across? State that message in one sentence, and that will be your thesis.

This is the foundation on which your essay is built, so it needs to be strong and well-reasoned. You need to be able to expand on it with facts and sources, not just feelings.

A good argumentative essay isn’t just based on your individual thoughts, but research. That can be citing sources and other arguments or it can mean direct research in the field, depending on what your argument is and the context in which you are arguing it.

Be prepared to back your thesis up with reporting from scientific journals, newspapers, or other forms of research. Having well-researched sources will help support your argument better than hearsay or assumptions. If you can’t find enough research to back up your point, it’s worth reconsidering your thesis or conducting original research, if possible.

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How to Come Up With an Argumentative Essay Topic

Sometimes you may find yourself arguing things you don’t necessarily believe. That’s totally fine—you don’t actually have to wholeheartedly believe in what you’re arguing in order to construct a compelling argument.

However, if you have free choice of topic, it’s a good idea to pick something you feel strongly about. There are two key components to a good argumentative essay: a strong stance, and an assortment of evidence. If you’re interested and feel passionate about the topic you choose, you'll have an easier time finding evidence to support it, but it's the evidence that's most important. 

So, to choose a topic, think about things you feel strongly about, whether positively or negatively. You can make a list of ideas and narrow those down to a handful of things, then expand on those ideas with a few potential points you want to hit on.

For example, say you’re trying to decide whether you should write about how your neighborhood should ban weed killer, that your school’s lunch should be free for all students, or that the school day should be cut by one hour. To decide between these ideas, you can make a list of three to five points for each that cover the different evidence you could use to support each point.

For the weed killer ban, you could say that weed killer has been proven to have adverse impacts on bees, that there are simple, natural alternatives, and that weeds aren’t actually bad to have around. For the free lunch idea, you could suggest that some students have to go hungry because they can’t afford lunch, that funds could be diverted from other places to support free lunch, and that other items, like chips or pizza, could be sold to help make up lost revenue. And for the school day length example, you could argue that teenagers generally don’t get enough sleep, that you have too much homework and not enough time to do it, and that teenagers don’t spend enough time with their families.

You might find as you make these lists that some of them are stronger than others. The more evidence you have and the stronger you feel that that evidence is, the better the topic.  Of course, if you feel that one topic may have more evidence but you’d rather not write about it, it’s okay to pick another topic instead. When you’re making arguments, it can be much easier to find strong points and evidence if you feel passionate about our topic than if you don't.

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50 Argumentative Essay Topic Ideas

If you’re struggling to come up with topics on your own, read through this list of argumentative essay topics to help get you started!

  • Should fracking be legal?
  • Should parents be able to modify their unborn children?
  • Do GMOs help or harm people?
  • Should vaccinations be required for students to attend public school?
  • Should world governments get involved in addressing climate change?
  • Should Facebook be allowed to collect data from its users?
  • Should self-driving cars be legal?
  • Is it ethical to replace human workers with automation?
  • Should there be laws against using cell phones while driving?
  • Has the internet positively or negatively impacted human society?

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  • Should college athletes be paid for being on sports teams?
  • Should coaches and players make the same amount of money?
  • Should sports be segregated by gender?
  • Should the concept of designated hitters in baseball be abolished?
  • Should US sports take soccer more seriously?
  • Should religious organizations have to pay taxes?
  • Should religious clubs be allowed in schools?
  • Should “one nation under God” be in the pledge of allegiance?
  • Should religion be taught in schools?
  • Should clergy be allowed to marry?
  • Should minors be able to purchase birth control without parental consent?
  • Should the US switch to single-payer healthcare?
  • Should assisted suicide be legal?
  • Should dietary supplements and weight loss items like teas be allowed to advertise through influencers?
  • Should doctors be allowed to promote medicines?

Government/Politics

  • Is the electoral college an effective system for modern America?
  • Should Puerto Rico become a state?
  • Should voter registration be automatic?
  • Should people in prison be allowed to vote?
  • Should Supreme Court justices be elected?
  • Should sex work be legalized?
  • Should Columbus Day be replaced with Indigenous Peoples’ Day?
  • Should the death penalty be legal?
  • Should animal testing be allowed?
  • Should drug possession be decriminalized?

body_money-23

  • Should unpaid internships be legal?
  • Should minimum wage be increased?
  • Should monopolies be allowed?
  • Is universal basic income a good idea?
  • Should corporations have a higher or lower tax rate?
  • Are school uniforms a good idea?
  • Should PE affect a student’s grades?
  • Should college be free?
  • Should Greek life in colleges be abolished?
  • Should students be taught comprehensive sex ed?

Arts/Culture

  • Should graffiti be considered art or vandalism?
  • Should books with objectionable words be banned?
  • Should content on YouTube be better regulated?
  • Is art education important?
  • Should art and music sharing online be allowed?

body_socks

How to Argue Effectively

A strong argument isn’t just about having a good point. If you can’t support that point well, your argument falls apart.

One of the most important things you can do in writing a strong argumentative essay is organizing well. Your essay should have a distinct beginning, middle, and end, better known as the introduction, body and opposition, and conclusion.

This example follows the Toulmin model—if your essay follows the Rogerian model, the same basic premise is true, but your thesis will instead propose two conflicting viewpoints that will be resolved through evidence in the body, with your conclusion choosing the stronger of the two arguments.

Introduction

Your hook should draw the reader’s interest immediately. Questions are a common way of getting interest, as well as evocative language or a strong statistic

Don’t assume that your audience is already familiar with your topic. Give them some background information, such as a brief history of the issue or some additional context.

Your thesis is the crux of your argument. In an argumentative essay, your thesis should be clearly outlined so that readers know exactly what point you’ll be making. Don’t explain all your evidence in the opening, but do take a strong stance and make it clear what you’ll be discussing.

Your claims are the ideas you’ll use to support your thesis. For example, if you’re writing about how your neighborhood shouldn’t use weed killer, your claim might be that it’s bad for the environment. But you can’t just say that on its own—you need evidence to support it.

Evidence is the backbone of your argument. This can be things you glean from scientific studies, newspaper articles, or your own research. You might cite a study that says that weed killer has an adverse effect on bees, or a newspaper article that discusses how one town eliminated weed killer and saw an increase in water quality. These kinds of hard evidence support your point with demonstrable facts, strengthening your argument.

In your essay, you want to think about how the opposition would respond to your claims and respond to them. Don’t pick the weakest arguments, either— figure out what other people are saying and respond to those arguments with clearly reasoned arguments.

Demonstrating that you not only understand the opposition’s point, but that your argument is strong enough to withstand it, is one of the key pieces to a successful argumentative essay.

Conclusions are a place to clearly restate your original point, because doing so will remind readers exactly what you’re arguing and show them how well you’ve argued that point.

Summarize your main claims by restating them, though you don’t need to bring up the evidence again. This helps remind readers of everything you’ve said throughout the essay.

End by suggesting a picture of a world in which your argument and action are ignored. This increases the impact of your argument and leaves a lasting impression on the reader.

A strong argumentative essay is one with good structure and a strong argument , but there are a few other things you can keep in mind to further strengthen your point.

When you’re crafting an argument, it can be easy to get distracted by all the information and complications in your argument. It’s important to stay focused—be clear in your thesis and home in on claims that directly support that thesis.

Be Rational

It’s important that your claims and evidence be based in facts, not just opinion. That’s why it’s important to use reliable sources based in science and reporting—otherwise, it’s easy for people to debunk your arguments.

Don’t rely solely on your feelings about the topic. If you can’t back a claim up with real evidence, it leaves room for counterarguments you may not anticipate. Make sure that you can support everything you say with clear and concrete evidence, and your claims will be a lot stronger!

What’s Next?

No matter what kind of essay you're writing, a strong plan will help you have a bigger impact. This guide to writing a college essay is a great way to get started on your essay organizing journey!

Brushing up on your essay format knowledge to prep for the SAT? Check out this list of SAT essay prompts to help you kickstart your studying!

A bunch of great essay examples can help you aspire to greatness, but bad essays can also be a warning for what not to do. This guide to bad college essays will help you better understand common mistakes to avoid in essay writing!

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

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Essay Writing Guide

Essay Topics

Nova A.

A Catalog of 370+ Essay Topics for Students

38 min read

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Are you struggling to find the perfect essay topic that will not only hook your readers but also enhance your own passion for writing?

It can be frustrating, right? 

Well, you don't need to spend hours searching for an idea to inspire you because we've got you covered!

In this guide, we have compiled over 370+ essay topics for students of all ages and educational levels. Whether you're in high school, college, or guiding younger minds in grades 3 to 8, our extensive catalog ensures there's something for everyone.

So, let's dive in!

Arrow Down

  • 1. Essay Topics For Different Academic Levels
  • 2. Essay Topics for Different Types of Essays
  • 3. Essay Topics by Subjects
  • 4. Simple Essay Topics
  • 5. Interesting Essay Topics
  • 6. Tips for Choosing the Best Topic for Your Essay

Essay Topics For Different Academic Levels

Essay writing spans various academic levels, offering students a structured platform to express their thoughts and demonstrate knowledge. From elementary school to university, essays refine critical thinking, research skills, and the ability to articulate ideas. 

Let’s take a look at some best essay topic ideas for students from different academic levels.

Essay Topics for Grade 3

  • My Favorite Animal
  • A Day at the Amusement Park
  • If I Could Fly
  • My Best Friend
  • My Favorite Season
  • A Special Family Tradition
  • If I Found a Magic Wand
  • The Importance of Being Kind
  • My Dream House
  • A Day in the Life of a Superhero

Essay Topics for Grade 4

  • My Favorite Book and Why I Love It
  • The Most Exciting Adventure I've Ever Had
  • My Role Model and Why I Look Up to Them
  • The Importance of Saving Money
  • If I Could Travel Back in Time
  • A Day Without Electricity
  • My Favorite Food and How to Prepare It
  • The Best Day of My Life and Why It Was Special
  • How I Would Spend a Day on a Deserted Island
  • The Benefits of Homework and Studying

Essay Topics for Grade 5

  • My Dream Vacation Destination
  • The Impact of Technology on My Life
  • The Importance of Environmental Conservation
  • My Hobbies and Why They Matter
  • If I Could Change One Thing About the World
  • The Role of Friendship in My Life
  • A Memorable Family Trip
  • The Power of Imagination
  • The Benefits of Physical Exercise
  • A Day in the Life of My Favorite Book Character

Essay Topics for Grade 6

  • My Personal Hero and Their Influence on Me
  • The Challenges of Growing Up
  • The Significance of Volunteering in the Community
  • The Impact of Social Media on Society
  • The Value of Setting Goals
  • If I Could Invent a New Holiday
  • The Role of Art and Music in My Life
  • The Benefits of Traveling and Experiencing Different Cultures
  • A Time I Overcame a Fear
  • The Importance of Time Management

Essay Topics for Grade 7

  • The Role of Technology in Education
  • The Impact of Bullying and How to Prevent It
  • The Value of a Good Education
  • The Pros and Cons of Social Networking
  • The Effects of Peer Pressure
  • If I Could Change One Thing About My School
  • The Benefits of Learning a Second Language
  • The Importance of Financial Literacy
  • A Time I Faced a Difficult Decision
  • The Significance of Gender Equality

Essay Topics for Grade 8

  • The Influence of Role Models in Our Lives
  • The Impact of Climate Change on the Environment
  • The Value of Diversity and Inclusion
  • The Role of Technology in Shaping the Future
  • The Importance of Critical Thinking Skills
  • If I Could Travel to Any Period in History
  • The Ethics of Animal Testing
  • The Benefits of Team Sports
  • A Time I Learned a Valuable Life Lesson
  • The Significance of Freedom of Speech

Essay Topics for High School Students

  • Does the fashion industry need to change the way they advertise?
  • Do beauty pageants carry any benefits for women?
  • Should women get plastic surgery?
  • What instigated World War 2?
  • What do people mean when they say “Fake news?”
  • Can constant use of drugs cause brain damage?
  • Can gun control help in regulating crime?
  • Is summer school designed to help children?
  • Methods that are used by professionals to get their dream job.
  • The ways to deal with on-campus violence.

Best College Essay Topics Ideas 

  • Role of Modern Media in contributing to eating disorders.
  • Is technology turning people into zombies?
  • Is censorship on the internet necessary?
  • Will there be a 3rd World War?
  • Should every student have the right to choose the discipline they are interested in?
  • What does it take to become a politician?
  • The reasons behind high unemployment rates.
  • The aftermath of earthquakes.
  • Which countries have the most corruption?
  • Should there be a restriction on the sales and production of tobacco?

Essay Topics for University Students

  • The Impact of Artificial Intelligence on the Job Market.
  • The Ethical Dilemmas of Human Gene Editing.
  • The Role of Social Media in Shaping Political Movements.
  • The Influence of Climate Change on Global Security.
  • The Benefits and Drawbacks of Online Education.
  • The Intersection of Technology and Mental Health.
  • The Economic Implications of Renewable Energy Adoption.
  • The Future of Space Exploration and Colonization.
  • The Ethics of Artificial Intelligence in Healthcare.
  • The Cultural Significance of Contemporary Art Movements.

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Essay Topics for Different Types of Essays

Here, you can find interesting topics and ideas for different types of essays to help you get started.

Argumentative Essay Topics

  • Is Climate Change Primarily Caused by Human Activities?
  • Should Affirmative Action Policies be Continued in College Admissions?
  • Is Universal Healthcare a Viable Option for the United States?
  • Should Euthanasia be Allowed for Severely Disabled Newborns?
  • Is Genetic Engineering Ethical in Humans?
  • Should the Voting Age be Lowered to 16?
  • Is Internet Censorship Necessary to Protect National Security?
  • Should Hate Speech be Protected as Free Speech?
  • Does asking someone to reduce weight equate to body shaming?
  • Should kids be allowed to adopt e-gaming as a progressive career?

In need of more debatable essay topics? We have a comprehensive list of more excellent argumentative essay topics to assist you.

Persuasive Essay Topics

  • Covid19 : Should Covid-19 Vaccination be Mandatory?
  • Recycling: Should Recycling Be Mandatory in Every Household?
  • Online Education : Should Online Education Replace Traditional Classroom Learning?
  • Dress Codes: Should Schools Implement Uniform Dress Codes to Promote Equality?
  • Smoking : Should Smoking in Public Places be Banned?
  • Vaccinations: Should Vaccinations Be Mandatory for All Children to Ensure Public Health?
  • Gun Control : Should There be Stricter Gun Control Laws in the United States?
  • Animal Testing: Is Animal Testing Justified in the Name of Scientific Progress?
  • Business : Should Businesses Adopt Environmentally Sustainable Practices?
  • Abortion : Should Abortion be Legalized in All Countries?

Read our comprehensive guide to persuasive essay topics to find a trending topic or a good idea for your paper.

Compare and Contrast Essay Topics

  • Comparison of High School vs. College Life
  • Contrast of Traditional Education vs. Online Learning
  • Comparison of Two Major Religions: Christianity vs. Islam
  • Contrasting the Novels of Jane Austen vs. Emily Brontë
  • Comparing Two Art Movements: Renaissance vs. Baroque
  • Contrasting Classical Music vs. Jazz
  • Comparing Two Smartphone Brands: iPhone vs. Android
  • Contrast of Two Political Systems: Democracy vs. Authoritarianism
  • Comparison of Traditional Medicine vs. Modern Medicine
  • Comparing the Characters of Romeo and Juliet vs. West Side Story

If you need more ideas, here are some interesting compare contrast essay topics for your help.

Descriptive Essay Topics

  • Person : Describe a mentor or role model who has influenced your life.
  • Person You Admire : Write about someone you admire for their courage and resilience.
  • My Mother : Capture the essence of your mother’s personality and daily routines.
  • Autumn : Explore the sights, sounds, and smells of autumn in a rural setting.
  • Nature : Describe a serene forest scene during sunrise or sunset.
  • Place : Paint a vivid picture of your favorite vacation spot by the beach.
  • Myself : Reflect on your own characteristics and how they shape your identity.
  • Food : Describe the preparation and flavors of a traditional dish from your culture.
  • Historical Place: Describe the architecture and ambiance of a famous historical landmark.
  • Sporting Event: Capture the excitement and atmosphere of attending a major sporting event.

Check out this extensive list of descriptive essay topics ideas for your help.

Narrative Essay Topics

  • My First Day of School: A Memorable Experience
  • The Day I Overcame My Greatest Fear
  • The Most Important Lesson I Learned from a Family Member
  • The Time I Achieved a Personal Goal, I Never Thought Possible
  • The Day I Discovered My Passion for a Hobby or Interest
  • The Impact of a Life-Altering Event on My Perspective
  • The Story Behind My Most Prized Possession
  • My Experience as a Volunteer or in Community Service
  • The Day I Realized the Power of Kindness
  • A Special Bond I Share with a Childhood Friend

Need more topics? Check out this extensive blog on narrative essay topics for your next assignment.

Classification Essay Topics

  • Types of Pet Owners: A Classification.
  • Classification of Musical Genres: From Classical to Hip-Hop.
  • Types of Travelers: Exploring the Adventurer, Relaxer, and Culture Enthusiast.
  • Classifying Different Types of Social Media Users.
  • Types of Students in a Classroom: From the Overachiever to the Laid-Back.
  • Classifying Different Styles of Fashion: Bohemian, Classic, and Trendy.
  • Types of Moviegoers: The Action Lover, Rom-Com Fan, and Film Buff.
  • Classifying Different Forms of Exercise: Yoga, Weightlifting, and Cardio.
  • Types of Foodies: From Gourmet Enthusiasts to Fast Food Lovers.
  • Classifying Various Types of Vehicles: Cars, Motorcycles, and Bicycles

Check out other compelling classification essay topics for more ideas.

Cause and Effect Essay Topics

  • Causes and Effects of Stress in Modern Society
  • The Consequences of Bullying on Mental Health
  • Environmental Pollution: Causes, Effects, and Solutions
  • The Influence of Parental Divorce on Children's Well-being
  • The Causes and Effects of Obesity in Developed Countries
  • The Causes and Effects of Economic Inequality
  • The Causes and Consequences of Academic Procrastination
  • The Impact of Social Pressure on Teenagers' Decision-Making
  • The Causes and Effects of Drug Addiction
  • The Influence of Early Education on a Child's Future Success

Check out this comprehensive guide on 100+ cause and effect essay topics for more ideas.

Expository Essay Topics

  • About a Person : Analyze the leadership qualities of a historical figure.
  • About Yourself : Reflect on the experiences that shaped your character.
  • About a Book : Examine the themes of justice and revenge in "The Count of Monte Cristo."
  • About Mental Health : Discuss the impact of mindfulness practices on mental well-being.
  • About Dogs : Explore the evolution of dog breeds and their domestication.
  • About Education : Evaluate the effectiveness of online learning in today's educational system.
  • Friendship : Investigate the qualities that make a friendship resilient over time.
  • Bullying : Analyze the psychological effects of cyberbullying on adolescents.
  • Music : Explore the influence of technology on music production and distribution.
  • Life Events of a Person: Trace the career milestones and achievements of a renowned scientist.

For some more intriguing ideas check out our blog on expository essay topics .

Informative Essay Topics

  • The Impact of Artificial Intelligence on the Job Market
  • The History and Cultural Significance of Ancient Egyptian Hieroglyphics
  • The Benefits and Risks of Gene Editing Technology
  • Exploring Renewable Energy Sources: Solar, Wind, and Hydroelectric Power
  • The Effects of Climate Change on Polar Ice Caps and Wildlife
  • A Comprehensive Guide to Effective Time Management
  • Exploring the Role of Nutrition in Promoting a Healthy Lifestyle
  • The Significance of Space Exploration: Past, Present, and Future
  • The Origins and Cultural Significance of a Traditional Festival
  • A Guide to Sustainable Farming and Agriculture Practices

Here’s a comprehensive list of interesting, 100+ informative essay topics .

Definition Essay Topics

  • The Meaning of "Success" in Modern Society
  • Defining the Concept of "Love" in All Its Forms
  • The True Definition of "Friendship"
  • The Ever-Changing Meaning of "Freedom"
  • Exploring the Notion of "Happiness"
  • Defining "Cultural Diversity" and Its Importance
  • The Multifaceted Definition of "Beauty"
  • The Various Interpretations of "Justice"
  • Understanding "Mental Health" and Its Stigma
  • Defining "Leadership" and Its Qualities

Process Analysis Essay Topics

  • How to Plan and Organize a Successful Study Group.
  • The Process of Making Homemade Pizza from Scratch.
  • Steps to Mastering a Musical Instrument.
  • How to Write a Winning College Application Essay.
  • The Process of Brewing Your Own Craft Beer.
  • Steps to Launching a Small Business Online.
  • How to Effectively Manage Time and Prioritize Tasks.
  • The Art of DIY Home Renovation.
  • The Process of Creating a Stunning Piece of Art.
  • How to Cook a Traditional Thanksgiving Dinner.

Check out some other process analysis essay topics for inspiration!

Exemplification Essay Topics

  • The Impact of Social Media on Personal Relationships
  • Benefits and Challenges of Remote Work in Today's Job Market
  • The Role of Technology in Education: Enhancing Learning or Creating Distractions?
  • Environmental Policies: Effectiveness in Combating Climate Change
  • The Importance of Financial Literacy in High School Curriculum
  • Challenges Faced by International Students Studying Abroad
  • The Rise of Veganism: Lifestyle Choice or Necessary Environmental Movement?
  • The Influence of Pop Culture on Youth Identity
  • Strategies for Achieving Work-Life Balance in a Fast-Paced Society
  • The Pros and Cons of Legalizing Marijuana for Medicinal Purposes

For more ideas on exemplification essays visit our dedicated blog on ‘ exemplification essay topics ’ 

Analogy Essay Topics 

  • Comparing the human brain to a computer's processing system.
  • The relationship between a teacher and a gardener nurturing plants.
  • Friendship compared to a tree growing strong over time.
  • The immune system as a city's defense force.
  • Comparing time management to juggling multiple balls.
  • The life cycle of a butterfly and personal growth through challenges.
  • A good book is like a journey to an unknown land.
  • The internet as a vast library of knowledge and misinformation.
  • Love compared to a delicate, blooming flower.
  • The process of writing an essay and constructing a building.

Research Essay Topics

  • The Impact of Renewable Energy Sources on Global Economies
  • The Role of Artificial Intelligence in Modern Medicine
  • The Effects of Climate Change on Coastal Ecosystems
  • The Evolution of Space Exploration Technologies
  • The Influence of Ancient Greek Philosophy on Western Thought
  • The Significance of Biodiversity in Maintaining Ecological Balance
  • The History and Development of Quantum Computing
  • The Role of Women in the Scientific Revolution
  • The Impact of Globalization on Local Cultures and Traditions
  • The Advancements in Genetic Engineering and Their Ethical Implications

Personal Essay Topics

  • A person you admire the most.
  • Are you addicted to games?
  • How did you learn to draw?
  • What is your life’s goal?
  • Things you hate the most.
  • Why do I prefer online shopping?
  • Your biggest achievement.
  • What does success mean to you?
  • What annoys you the most?
  • Why is volunteering important?

Essay Topics by Subjects

Students are often asked by teachers to write essays on a variety of topics related to a particular subject. The sheer number of discussion areas can be overwhelming for students, making it difficult to choose a good essay topic. 

This list of essay topics by subject can help you narrow down your choices and find a topic that is both interesting and relevant to your studies.

Essay Topics on Technology

  • Technology and the global economy.
  • The positives and effects of technology.
  • The role of 3-D printing  in Medicine.
  • What science has to offer to disabled people?
  • Face detection software and the problem of identity theft.
  • Adding connectivity to our home devices: is it helpful or not?
  • Cloud computing and artificial intelligence
  • How has technology changed our life?
  • Life without technology
  • Technology has its own rules

Essay Topics on Science

  • Engineering: The Future of Renewable Energy Sources Beyond Solar and Wind
  • Science Fiction : Exploring the Role of AI in Dystopian Futures
  • Space Science: The Search for Extraterrestrial Life Beyond Our Solar System
  • Science and Technology : Blockchain Technology and Its Applications in Various Industries
  • Environmental Science: The Impact of Plastic Pollution on Marine Ecosystems
  • Science in Everyday Life : The Science Behind Cooking and Food Preservation
  • Health Science: The Role of Genetics in Personalized Medicine
  • Essay about Science Fair : The Benefits of Participating in Science Fairs for Students
  • Physics: The Concept of Dark Matter and Its Implications in Cosmology
  • Chemistry: Advances in Nanotechnology and Their Applications in Medicine

Essay Topics on Climate Change

  • The effects of climate change on human health
  • The impact of climate change on global food security
  • The economic impacts of climate change
  • The role of the media in communicating the risks of climate change
  • The ethical implications of climate change
  • The Impacts of Climate Change on Agriculture
  • The Impacts of Climate Change on Wildlife
  • The Potential Solutions to Climate Change
  • The Challenges in Implementing Solutions to Climate Change
  • The Role of the Individual in Solving Climate Change

Essay Topics About Yourself

  • Introduce yourself in a unique way that captures your reader's attention.
  • Discuss an accomplishment that you are proud of, and how it has shaped who you are today.
  • Describe a time when you faced a challenge, and how you overcame it.
  • Share an experience that has helped to shape your values and beliefs.
  • What are your hobbies and interests?
  • What are your strengths and weaknesses?
  • What are your career aspirations?
  • Describe a time when you faced a challenge and how you coped with it.
  • Tell us about a time when you were proud of yourself and why.
  • What are your plans for the future?

Essay Topics About the Environment

  • The Impact of Climate Change on Global Weather Patterns.
  • Deforestation and Its Effects on Biodiversity.
  • The Role of Renewable Energy Sources in Combating Climate Change.
  • Plastic Pollution: Analyzing the Impact on Marine Ecosystems.
  • The Importance of Environmental Education in Schools.
  • Urbanization and Its Environmental Consequences.
  • Sustainable Agriculture: Balancing Food Production and Environmental Conservation.
  • The Significance of Wildlife Conservation and Preservation.
  • The Ethics of Animal Testing in Scientific Research.
  • Environmental Justice: Addressing Disparities in Environmental Quality.

Essay Topics on Festivals and Events

  • The Cultural Significance of Diwali in India
  • The Historical Roots of Thanksgiving in America
  • The Evolution of the Olympic Games Over Time
  • The Role of Carnival in Brazilian Culture
  • The Impact of Oktoberfest on German Economy and Culture
  • The Celebration of Chinese New Year Around the World
  • The Environmental Effects of Large Music Festivals
  • The Religious and Social Importance of Ramadan
  • The Origins and Traditions of Mardi Gras in New Orleans
  • The Global Influence of the Cannes Film Festival

Essay Topics on Education

  • The Impact of Technology on Modern Education
  • The Role of Standardized Testing in Student Assessment
  • The Benefits and Challenges of Online Learning
  • The Importance of Arts Education in Schools
  • The Effectiveness of Montessori Education Methods
  • The Debate Over School Uniform Policies
  • The Influence of Early Childhood Education on Development
  • The Role of Vocational Training in the Workforce
  • The Challenges of Inclusive Education for Students with Disabilities
  • The Impact of Socioeconomic Status on Educational Achievement

Essay Topics on Famous Leaders

  • The Leadership Style of Nelson Mandela and Its Impact on South Africa
  • The Political Legacy of Winston Churchill During World War II
  • The Influence of Mahatma Gandhi’s Philosophy of Nonviolence
  • The Economic Reforms of Deng Xiaoping in China
  • The Role of Cleopatra in Ancient Egyptian Politics
  • The Visionary Leadership of Steve Jobs in the Tech Industry
  • The Human Rights Advocacy of Eleanor Roosevelt
  • The Military Strategies of Alexander the Great
  • The Contributions of Angela Merkel to European Politics
  • The Reforms Introduced by Franklin D. Roosevelt During the Great Depression

Essay Topics on Animals and Birds

  • The Role of Bees in Ecosystem Balance and Agriculture
  • The Social Structures and Behaviors of Elephant Herds
  • The Migration Patterns of Monarch Butterflies
  • The Endangered Status of Tigers and Conservation Efforts
  • The Communication Methods of Dolphins
  • The Importance of Wetlands for Bird Habitats
  • The Evolutionary Adaptations of Arctic Foxes
  • The Impact of Deforestation on Orangutan Populations
  • The Role of Birds in Pollination and Seed Dispersal
  • The Ethical Implications of Zoos and Wildlife Parks

Essay Topics Based on Proverbs

  • "A Stitch in Time Saves Nine": The Importance of Timeliness and Preventive Actions
  • "Actions Speak Louder Than Words": Analyzing the Power of Deeds Over Words
  • "All That Glitters Is Not Gold": Understanding Superficial Appearances vs. Reality
  • "Birds of a Feather Flock Together": The Influence of Social Circles on Behavior
  • "Every Cloud Has a Silver Lining": Finding Positivity in Adversity
  • "The Pen Is Mightier Than the Sword": The Impact of Writing and Ideas Over Violence
  • "When in Rome, Do as the Romans Do": The Value of Cultural Adaptation
  • "A Journey of a Thousand Miles Begins with a Single Step": The Significance of Taking Initiative
  • "Don't Count Your Chickens Before They Hatch": The Pitfalls of Overconfidence and Assumptions
  • "You Can't Judge a Book by Its Cover": The Importance of Looking Beyond Surface Appearances

Essay Topics About Life Goals

  • The Importance of Setting and Achieving Personal Goals
  • How Career Aspirations Shape Individual Identity and Life Choices
  • The Role of Education in Achieving Long-term Life Goals
  • Balancing Professional Ambitions with Personal Happiness
  • The Influence of Family Expectations on Life Goals
  • Overcoming Obstacles to Achieve Life Goals
  • The Impact of Mentors and Role Models on Goal Setting
  • How Travel and Exploration Can Inspire New Life Goals
  • The Role of Financial Planning in Achieving Life Goals
  • The Connection Between Health Goals and Overall Life Satisfaction

Simple Essay Topics

  • The Benefits of Reading Books
  • The Importance of Recycling
  • My Favorite Hobby and Why I Love It
  • The Advantages of Eating Healthy
  • The Impact of Pets on Our Lives
  • A Memorable Family Vacation
  • The Role of Sports in Our Daily Life
  • The Importance of Learning a Second Language
  • How to Keep a Balanced Diet
  • The Significance of Friendship in Our Lives

Interesting Essay Topics

  • The Future of Space Tourism
  • The Ethics of Artificial Intelligence
  • The Role of Virtual Reality in Education
  • The Cultural Impact of Video Games
  • The Evolution of Fashion Over the Decades
  • The Influence of Music on Human Emotions
  • The Benefits and Risks of Genetic Engineering
  • The Psychology Behind Conspiracy Theories
  • The Impact of Climate Change on Endangered Species
  • The Social Implications of Remote Work Trends

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Tips for Choosing the Best Topic for Your Essay

Choosing the right topic for your essay is a critical step in the essay writing process. It sets the tone for your work and can greatly impact your ability to engage your readers. Here are some tips to help you select the best topic:

  • Align with the Essay Format

Make sure your topic fits the required essay format , whether it's argumentative , descriptive , or narrative .

  • Craft a Strong Essay Outline

Choose a topic that allows for a clear and structured essay outline , making it easier to organize your thoughts.

  • Engaging Essay Introduction

Select a topic that can hook your readers from the essay introduction , capturing their interest immediately.

  • Clear Thesis Statement

Pick a topic that enables you to develop a concise and arguable thesis statement , guiding the direction of your essay.

  • Effective Topic Sentence

Ensure your topic allows for strong and relevant topic sentences in each paragraph to support your thesis.

  • Compelling Essay Title

Select a topic that can be transformed into an intriguing essay title , drawing readers in from the start.

  • Avoid Irrelevant and Long Topic

Pick a topic that is neither too broad nor too narrow to avoid common essay writing problems , such as lack of depth or insufficient content.

In conclusion, selecting the best topic for your essay is a pivotal decision that can significantly impact the quality and engagement level of your writing. By considering your interests, you can set yourself up for success in crafting an exceptional essay.

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essay writing guide

335 Unique Essay Topics for College Students [2024 Update]

The success of any college essay depends on the topic choice. If you want to impress your instructors, your essay needs to be interesting and unique. Don’t know what to write about? We are here to help you!

In this article by our Custom-Writing.org team, you will find 335 interesting essay topics for college students. We’ve also included some helpful tips on choosing a topic that will make your essay stand out.

  • 🔝 Top 10 College Essay Topics
  • 📋 How to Choose a Topic
  • 🧑 Personal Essay Topics
  • 🖌️ Descriptive Topics
  • 🏺 Narrative Topics: History
  • 🔮 Creative Writing Topics
  • 🎓 Topics for Various Fields
  • ✍️ Topics for Different Essay Types
  • 🚫 Topics to Avoid

🔗 References

🔝 top 10 essay topics for college students.

🎯Career aspirations and goals to achieve.
📚Your favorite writers and poets.
👰Personal feelings on marriage.
⚔️What is the definition of honor?
👔Traits that make an influential person.
🔭Great inventors and their contributions.
♻️Historical perspective on ecological problems.
🤖The society of tomorrow.
♀️Ecofeminism, its origins, and perspectives.
🖌️The major art movements of the late XX century.

📋 How to Pick a College Essay Topic

There is no universal advice on picking a great essay topic. However, the tips below will surely help you avoid choosing a mediocre one. Just follow these steps:

STEP #1: Start with brainstorming.

Relax and write down everything that comes to mind. It can be related to your personal life or areas of interest.

STEP#2: Use outside sources.

If you need additional inspiration, find a list of essay topic suggestions. Pick several options that appeal to you.

STEP#3: Select a topic.

Once you have your list of possible topics, do the following:

  • Review the essay instructions or prompt, if you have one.
  • Exclude ideas that are not suitable or compelling enough.
  • Decide which of the remaining topics you want to write about. It might be the one you are interested in or understand best.

College Essay Topics: Fields & Disciplines

Now that you know how to choose a theme for your assignment, let’s examine this list of college essay ideas. These exceptional topics are arranged by subject, so you can go right to the section that interests you the most.

🧑 will allow you to discover more about yourself. You can find additional topics in .
📝 even the most insignificant and obvious ones, can be worth pondering.
🏺 knows many examples of outstanding personalities. You can learn something valuable from each one of them.
🔮 are perfect for you if you enjoy coming up with stories.
🏫 is an excellent source of college essay topics. You can look back at your classes, relationships with teachers, or campus life.
🍎 make excellent topics for college students. You may also check out .
⚖️ are some of the most controversial topics to write about in college. Be sure to research your topic from different perspectives. You’re also welcome to choose ideas from .
♻️ are among the most pressing global issues. Check out for more ideas.
😂If is something you like, you’ll enjoy writing a funny college essay.
♀️ is something every modern society should strive to achieve. Feel free to choose a topic below or from .
🤝 is a priority in modern societies. You can ponder the strategies that can help us ensure all people’s well-being.
🎨 are an incredible way to convey experiences that can’t be put into words.
👽 are fascinating to explore. Discover where they originate from and what they can tell us about our society.

🧑 Personal Essay Topics for College

  • Your perfect date.
  • Settling an argument.
  • What’s usually in your bag.
  • Your most memorable purchase.
  • What your upbringing was like.
  • One quote that inspired you the most.
  • What you do to make the world better.
  • Where you want to spend your life.
  • When the effort was worth the result.
  • An unusual feeling you’ve experienced.
  • A life-changing adventure. There are many ways to write about adventure in an essay. You can describe an interesting situation from your own life or one experienced by another individual, perhaps a famous figure.
  • Positive and negative leadership examples. Typically, essays on leadership describe a specific person or a situation. A more interesting perspective on this subject is highlighting episodes of disastrous leadership. Some examples include the expansion of fascism after World War I or exploitation under European colonialism.
  • Decision making. Both mundane and monumental, earth-shattering decisions make great essay topics. You can choose a situation and describe what the decision-maker did correctly or incorrectly.
  • Deciding what to wear today. This might be the most mundane decision that everyone makes daily. However, just because it’s so ordinary, it might yield a fascinating college essay if explored thoughtfully.
  • President Truman’s decision to drop atomic bombs on Japan. This decision may have been the most significant of human history. It marked the introduction of a technology that could annihilate the human race. This decision may have been the most significant of human history. It marked the introduction of a technology that could annihilate the human race.
  • Purchasing decisions in the supermarket. Similarly, everyone decides what to eat several times every day. In an essay on this subject, focus on the most interesting factors influencing grocery shopping decisions.
  • Picking a book to read. According to The Atlantic, an average modern American reads fewer books than at any earlier time in history. With this in mind, consider writing an essay on selecting a book to read. This is particularly interesting when you recognize that more books are being published nowadays than ever before.
  • Childhood experiences as behavioral drives. An analysis of childhood experiences can help interpret individual character traits. Any challenge and achievement play a part in the formation of behavioral drives. You can discuss them in the context of one’s mental development .
  • Parenting styles and motives. Everyone knows that the role of parents in children’s lives is crucial. For your essay, you can choose to evaluate specific approaches to interacting with a child. Obtain reliable data about a child’s habits and find correlations with social adaptation principles.
  • Problem-solving skills in everyday life. Problem-solving skills allow a person to overcome challenges. You may assess these skills from your perspective. This essay can also highlight the traits that enable you to cope with difficulties.
  • Negotiation skills and conflict resolution attainments. The ability to compromise is a valuable personal quality. It can be helpful in different areas of interpersonal communication. In your paper, analyze ways to enhance this skill for successful conflict resolution.
  • Bill Gates’ initiative to create Microsoft and change the world. Thanks to Bill Gates, computer technologies became available to everyone. Assessing his career path can help identify specific components of success. What valuable lessons can we learn from him?

🖌️ Descriptive Essay Topics for College Students

  • What your hometown is like.
  • What you dislike about the Internet.
  • If emotions were personified.
  • How you experience art.
  • Holiday season and nostalgia.
  • Your personal teaching experience.
  • How regular workout makes you feel.
  • The impact of music on your body.
  • National holidays in different countries.
  • Traditions you observed around the world.
  • Marriage: then and now. In bygone eras, most children were born within wedlock. In the contemporary world, fewer marriages take place than before. What are the reasons behind it?
  • Pressure on women to marry. In the past, women were coerced into marriage more forcefully than men. Unfortunately, this tendency remains in many societies even today. You can choose this topic to investigate sexism in everyday life.
  • Sports in your life. Everywhere in the world, fans fervently adore sports . It’s a spectacular subject for an essay, no matter if your tone is serious or lighthearted.
  • Football: pros and cons. An essay about this popular American sport will surely spark your readers’ interest. For instance, you may explore the long-term health risks associated with concussions.
  • Basketball as a global sport. After soccer, basketball is the most rapidly growing sport globally. Your basketball essay could delve into the geopolitical implications of this newly globalized sport.
  • What is love? It is the quintessential human emotion , and that’s why it’s a timeless topic for any writing assignment.
  • Happiness and how to achieve it. Love and happiness go together, so it is no surprise that happiness is a fruitful writing topic. You can choose to concentrate on pursuing happiness, simply being happy, or anything else.
  • The 19 th century origins of Christmas carols . You could write about the origins of Christmas carols, most of which date back to the 19 th century. Before that, Christmas songs were restricted to church hymns.
  • Christmas carols around the world. Every country with a significant population of Christians celebrates Christmas uniquely, making the global diversity of Christmas carols one of the more interesting essay topics.
  • Personal feelings evoked by Christmas carols. Once again, you can focus on your personal experience. Simply describe how Christmas carols make you feel. feel.

🏺 Narrative Essay Topics for College Students: History

  • The life of Socrates.
  • Nero and the Roman Empire.
  • Everyday life of Puritans.
  • Events of Mexican-American War.
  • Life during the Great Depression.
  • Women in Trojan War.
  • The start of the Nuclear Age.
  • Heroes of the Space Race.
  • Pearl Harbor through the eyes of a witness.
  • The fall of the Sumer civilization.
  • Local heroes. You can write a fantastic college essay on a historical personality who is highly appraised in your state. What is this person’s contribution, and what makes them outstanding?
  • Real-life villains. The Ivy League essays often include an analysis of notorious people’s deeds or personalities. You can write about Adolf Hitler, Joseph Stalin, Mao Zedong, Pol Pot, Josef Mengele, H. H. Holmes, Caligula, and many others.
  • Influential people in any area. Your college essay can focus on some notable figures in politics, finance, science, literature, architecture, visual arts, music, sports, or pop culture.
  • The most influential women. You can write about women who achieved a lot in the “men’s world.” Choose between Elizabeth I , Margaret Thatcher , Indira Gandhi, and many other renowned figures.
  • Scientists who changed the world. You may write a great college essay about the contributions of Nikola Tesla, Charles Darwin, Thomas Edison, and other scientists. What areas of our lives have changed thanks to these people?
  • Great conquerors and their power. Alexander the Great, Genghis Khan , Attila, and other commanders were outstanding people of their time. They expanded their territories thanks to successful military campaigns. Your essay may focus on one of these great conquerors.
  • Hitler’s decision to unleash World War II . Adolph Hitler’s personality is often explored in academic works. Your paper can explore what prompted the German leader to popularize Nazism in Europe. Understanding it may help prevent the repetition of such events.
  • Religious figures. Explore individuals who developed essential doctrines and spiritual teachings. Your essay may include the key ideas of people such as Thomas Aquinas and Joseph Smith Jr.
  • Fighters for justice and equality. Democratic societies were significantly influenced by those who struggled for human rights. Freedom of people around the world was their primary goal. Your essay can assess the roles of Mahatma Gandhi, Nelson Mandela, or Martin Luther King Jr.
  • Voyagers and discoverers. Thanks to the great explorers of the past, the world as we know it today was shaped. You can write about Christopher Columbus, Ferdinand Magellan, and others in your paper.
  • Roman emperors. Ancient Rome was the greatest civilization of its time. Throughout its history, individual emperors have contributed to its prosperity. Julius Caesar , Nero, and other rulers can be the focus of your essay.

🔮 Creative Writing Topics for College Students

  • A conversation with yourself from the past.
  • What would life be like on a rogue planet?
  • If you were an ancient conqueror.
  • A children’s fairy tale.
  • What if there is no money in the world?
  • A new perspective on a famous story.
  • If you lived in another era.
  • What are animals thinking?
  • A perfect world as you see it.
  • A horror story in the style of Kafka.
  • Detective stories. Suspense is often the key to interesting essays. You can write a unique story about a murder in a castle, a theft in your college dorm, or fraud in a famous (or fictional) company.
  • The world of your fantasy. Write an outstanding college essay that describes a brave new (or beautiful) world. Your dreams, books, films, or even news you’ve heard can be the source of your inspiration.
  • Stream of consciousness . It can be the most straightforward task you have ever completed. Just write about your thought, dreams, and ideas. Whatever comes to your mind! Make sure to edit it afterward.

The picture shows 6 types of creative writing.

  • Description of a dystopian world. Come up with a dystopian scenario to assess contemporary vices and problems. Use descriptive words to make your essay stand out.
  • A new look at traditional values. For a creative essay, try rethinking traditional values. For instance, you may provide new perspectives on compassion, charity, respect, and other essential components of a civilized society.
  • A short movie script. One of the ideas is to write a short film script on any topic. This task will allow you to showcase your storytelling skills.
  • The future as you imagine it. You can pay particular attention to social issues and their development. Will the situation improve in the future?
  • Reporter experience. Conduct an investigation and report your findings in a creative essay. This work may include interviews, illustrations, and the analysis of issues. This approach allows moving away from traditional forms of essay writing.
  • On behalf of another person. Take an opportunity to explore an issue from someone else’s perspective. For instance, you can assess the difficulties faced by people of the opposite sex. It can help analyze the problems of interpersonal communication.

🎓 College Essay Topics for Various Fields

College life essay topics.

  • Making a choice. You can write your college essay about making a decision. For example, how did you choose your college? Are you happy with your choice?
  • Good and bad habits . Write about the patterns that affect your academic life. How can you get rid of the unproductive ones?
  • Major challenges . In your college experience essay, you can describe the major issues you have faced during your school years. How did you handle them?
  • Time-management practices. College studies are often stressful. That’s why multitasking is an important skill. In your essay, explore the topic of time management. Analyze the algorithms for competent task distribution.
  • Memorable events. Did you ever have a life-changing experience? You can write a perfect college essay about it.
  • University life: expectations vs. reality. You can also try to imagine your future and write an essay on your expectations related to university life.
  • Interaction with classmates. An interesting topic for a college life essay is building relationships with classmates. It can be helpful to study the basics of teamwork. Conflict resolution practices are also important factors of interpersonal peer communication.
  • Freshman experience. You can describe it in anecdotes or conduct some research. For instance, assess the challenges and barriers that first-year students face. Then, determine optimal mechanisms to overcome them.
  • Teamwork and group activities. Describe appropriate ways to communicate with people in groups. Or, you can focus on the crucial features of effective teamwork.
  • Research work experience. College education involves conducting many kinds of research. They refer to theoretical training and the practical study of subjects. In this regard, you can describe your personal research experience.
  • The importance of self-education. Students often face the need to study some subjects on their own. Self-education and its aspects can be an exciting topic to explore. Focus on honing individual skills and overcoming academic challenges.
  • A comparison of high school and college. For many high school students, the idea of college study is different from reality. You can describe the distinctions between the two levels of education. Give personal views on the learning process and common pitfalls.

Health Topics for College Students

  • Healthy eating. In the wealthiest and poorest countries on Earth, healthy eating has very different meanings. Focusing on cultural variations of healthy eating has plenty of potential.
  • Fast food and its popularity. People have never eaten so much fast food as they do now. Consider writing about this interesting trend and its health implications.
  • Childhood obesity as a global health issue. Because of all the high-calorie foods available today, many children in industrialized countries have weight problems. This issue has some extraordinary potential for persuasive writing.
  • The problem of alcoholism . Substance abuse problems such as alcoholism have been an exemplary subject of writing for a long time. You can contemplate the implications of this problem in your college essay.
  • Teen pregnancy: risk factors . In many regions of the world, teen pregnancy rates are higher than ever . The phenomenon is often associated with poverty and lower levels of education.
  • Smoking in public. Should it be outlawed? Is it a public health hazard or just fundamental liberty that the government is unjustified to control or even regulate?

The picture shows a fact about tobacco-related deaths.

  • Why do people smoke ? All smokers have their initial justifications for starting to smoke, so perhaps use your essay to explore one or several reasons.
  • Quitting smoking. Some people use tobacco substitutes like candies or even nicotine gum. Whatever the methods are, everyone struggles when trying to overcome an addiction.
  • Smoking should be banned . This is an extremely strong stance, but these are often the most entertaining essays to write.
  • Smoking and mood. Studying the linkage between smoking and mood is undeniably intriguing, especially if you smoke or know a smoker.
  • Dangers of secondhand smoke. When a person smokes, nearby people also breathe in many of the toxins. You could write about the moral implications or the societal and health impacts of this phenomenon.
  • Smoking and cancer. Everyone understands that tobacco use is linked to cancer, so attempt to take a novel perspective if you choose this topic.
  • Smoking and cardiovascular disease. Long-term smoking has been linked to heart disease and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD.) Try to convince your reader of these very clear dangers in your essay.
  • Peer pressure and tobacco use. The vast majority of smokers develop this habit at a young age because their friends or acquaintances are already smoking.
  • Smoking in pop culture. In the past, movies and TV shows often depicted smoking. Your essay could explore how this pattern has evolved.
  • Acquiring bad habits from family members. As pointed out by a famous public service announcement from the 1980s, addictions such as smoking can run in families. You could explain the implications of it.

Ideas for College Essay on Ethics and Society

  • Abortion as a controversy. You could use this topic for an abortion debate essay. Rather than taking one position, try to do your best to present different perspectives.
  • The case against abortion. In writing a pro-life essay, you need to offer various reasons to oppose abortion.
  • The case for access to abortion. You may also consider a pro-choice essay . In this type of abortion persuasive essay, you need to emphasize the costs to individuals and society when women are denied access to abortions.
  • Shoplifting and its consequences. Your essay could explore the motivation for this practice, methods of discouraging it, or even its implications to retail businesses. Maybe you can even detail a personal story about a friend who has shoplifted.
  • Domestic violence in developed countries. Violence against women and children is frequent in all societies, so you can use your essay as an opportunity to explore domestic violence.
  • Types of animal cruelty. Another woefully widespread form of abuse is animal cruelty. It can range from dog fights to factory farming and everything in-between.
  • Capital punishment: pros and cons. The vast majority of governments have banned this barbaric practice. When judicial systems have the authority to take lives as punishment for crimes, there are profound social implications.
  • Current events analysis. If you have difficulty picking a topic, open up a newspaper or go to your favorite news website. Your next essay can be on the first article you read that captures your attention.
  • History of child labor. Under this subject, you could survey the decline of child labor over time. You might also want to consider atypical counterexamples of this trend.
  • Child labor laws. Child labor doesn’t occur on a larger scale because it is banned by law. Take some time to research the effectiveness of these laws.
  • Child labor across the world. In this essay, try to evaluate how child labor practices vary from one geographic region to another.
  • Unemployment and child labor. Sometimes, there aren’t enough jobs even for the adults in a nation, not to mention children. Consider exploring why this happens.

Environmental Issues Essay Topics for College

  • Local environmental issues . Success in college essay writing largely depends on one factor: you should pick a problem you are interested in or know a lot about. For example, describe what environmental issues you and your community face.
  • The most urgent ecological problems. Burning issues such as pollution, deforestation, biodiversity loss , and scarcity of natural resources can jeopardize the existence of the human race if solutions are not found. You can come up with a perfect essay on any of these challenges.
  • Solutions to environmental problems. Winning college essays often include describing and analyzing efficient or inefficient solutions. You can write about emissions restrictions, the use of renewable energy sources, and so on. Why are some solutions ineffective?
  • Renewable energy. Solar energy, windmills, electric vehicles, and many other solutions are implemented every year, but environmental issues persist. Your essay can answer the following questions: Why is renewable energy underused? Why is the production of electric vehicles in its infancy, although it started at the beginning of the 20th century?
  • Global and political perspectives on sustainability. Some countries, especially in Western Europe, are making significant progress in developing sustainable practices. However, some states focus on gaining economic well-being or supremacy, especially in the developing world. Will the US be one of the global polluters in the future?
  • Global warming and how to stop it. This is an urgent contemporary issue that deserves particular attention. An essay on a climate catastrophe may prompt readers to discuss the problem. Describe the ways to avoid adverse consequences for nature and humanity.
  • Water and air pollution. Write about the impact of pollution on individual spheres of life. For example, focus on the correlation between contamination and economy.
  • The depletion of natural resources. Ecological issues are often connected with natural resources. They’re essential in industrialized societies. You can discuss the depletion of these resources in your college essay.
  • The issues of waste disposal. Environmental activists are concerned about severe soil pollution . They also address the negative impact of landfills on ecology. All of this shows that waste disposal is an urgent issue. Study how much of a threat it poses for humanity.
  • The dangers of animal extinction. Over the past few decades, many species have become endangered. You can review this problem as a consequence of industrial development.
  • Deforestation’s consequences. This topic is closely related to the issue of mass extinction. Forests are a habitat for countless species of animals and plants. What adverse effects does deforestation entail?
  • The economic impact of environmental problems. Focus on financial aspects and budget spending on pollution control. You can also highlight the importance of addressing challenges associated with climate change.

Topics for Funny College Essays

  • Humorous stories and personal experiences. University essay writing can be enjoyable and even entertaining. Describe some of your adventures or make up a funny story for your assignment. Be creative !
  • Interesting historical facts. You can find tons of funny stories if you dig deeper into history. Many entertaining events are well-documented. Choose one and write an essay about it.
  • Funny and awkward situations. All students know what it’s like to be in an uncomfortable situation. Try to describe such an event in a comical way. It will allow you to look at it from a different perspective.
  • Dealing with unexpected tests. Sometimes professors don’t warn their students about upcoming tests. Did it ever happen to you? You probably didn’t enjoy these experiences. Still, why not describe them in a humorous essay?
  • Your personal teaching experience . This topic is suitable for student teachers. Have you tried teaching a whole classroom of noisy children? Successful or not, these experiences make great anecdotes.
  • Excessive efforts. Some students put too much effort into education. Sometimes it pays off, and other times it’s all in vain. Does it sound familiar to you? Write an essay about it!
  • Poor time management. Delays, late deadlines, and other time management catastrophes can form the basis of this essay.
  • Jokes on classmates. Innocent pranks help maintain a friendly environment and even serve as team building . Describe the memories of such humorous situations in your essay.
  • Your professors’ jokes. Not only students but also teachers are often inclined towards humor. Occasional jokes on their part can be a good essay topic for college. Such gags can contribute to maintaining interest in a learning environment.
  • Least favorite lessons. Describe the most boring or unpleasant class you can remember in a humorous manner.
  • Making friends with other students. Awkward and funny situations often accompany these experiences. They can serve as a topic for a great essay.
  • Unexpected praise. It’s always a pleasure to receive unexpected recognition from teachers. It’s especially gratifying when you do something well by accident or without even trying. Did anything like that ever happen to you? Then write a short story about it!

Best College Essay Topics on Gender Issues

  • Machismo: what is it? How was the term coined? What are areas of life negatively affected by this phenomenon? Think about sports, politics, or popular culture.
  • Gender roles in modern societies. Many Harvard essays provide answers to the following questions. How are gender roles distributed in your country, community, family? What factors led to this distribution?
  • Famous feminists. Explore the contributions of Lucrezia Marinella, Anne Bradstreet, Emmeline Pankhurst, Eleanor Roosevelt, Marlene Dietrich, Alice Walker, Hillary Clinton, Oprah Winfrey, and many other renowned women.
  • Men’s views on gender. Writing a good college essay involves an analysis of different perspectives. It can be fascinating to examine men’s attitudes towards gender issues .
  • Matriarchy as a social system. You can write about modern societies such as Bribri or Garo. Or, you can find examples of matriarchy in the past. What about Neolithic Ages or Bronze Age ?
  • Biological differences between sexes. It can be an eye-opening experience to explore physical differences between men and women. Are they that different?
  • Patriarchal society in today’s world. Assessing patriarchy as a trend can help identify key stereotypes and stigmas. How can we facilitate women empowerment?
  • Workplace gender discrimination . Even today, many women struggle to get promoted due to gender stereotypes. Biased attitudes are unacceptable in modern organizations. Where do they originate from, and what should be done about it?
  • Conflicts between boys and girls at school. The foundations of interpersonal interaction are laid in a collective environment. Analyze students’ behavior patterns related to interactions between boys and girls. What are the most common causes of conflicts?
  • Family violence from a gender perspective. Family violence is a grave social problem. In your paper, identify the underlying determinants of domestic abuse.
  • The role of women in science. Assess the contribution of women scientists from different eras. You can focus on their specific achievements and auxiliary work. Both the humanities and the sciences are suitable for analysis.
  • Individual duties in parenting. The roles of fathers and mothers in families are often separated. In your essay, analyze stereotypes and behavioral patterns related to parenthood. You can use specific variables such as the time spent with children.
  • Women in male-dominated occupations. Assess the performance of women in positions usually occupied by men. You can study female CEOs, firefighters, or filmmakers. What are the career prospects for women in these fields?

Titles for College Essays on Diversity

  • Cultural diversity’s importance. Many Stanford essays explore issues associated with cultural diversity and how it can affect individuals, workplaces, and societies. Many Stanford essays explore issues associated with cultural diversity and how it can affect individuals, workplaces, and societies.
  • Ethnic diversity in different countries. The US is one of the most conventional examples of a melting pot. How do people of different cultural backgrounds co-exist there? What challenges do they face? How do they solve conflicts?
  • Variety of religious beliefs. Religion is one of the most interesting subjects to write an essay on. You can concentrate on Christianity, Islam, Judaism, Buddhism, and dozens of other religions. Scientology or Happy Science can also be excellent essay subjects.
  • Diversity related to sexual identity. You can write an outstanding argumentative essay on same-sex marriages or the inclusion of issues such as transgender identity in the K-12 curriculum.
  • Personal contribution to diversity development. Address the promotion of diversity as an important social phenomenon. Your essay will raise awareness of this practice.
  • Children’s and adults’ views on diversity and ethnicity. This essay can highlight crucial aspects of interpersonal communication. You can pose questions from a child’s perspective. Do other people’s ethnic backgrounds play an essential role for children compared to adults?
  • Cross-cultural management in modern organizations. Leaders of various companies promote this valuable practice. It’s highly relevant in today’s business environment. The trend of globalization is one of its crucial factors.
  • Gender diversity in the management field. Issues related to the distribution of leadership roles are often discussed in the context of gender. In your paper, evaluate the perception of male and female managers. This analysis may reveal the existing trends and views on the issue of diversity.
  • Gender diversity from a criminological perspective . You can evaluate the current situation in the legal field. Assess offenses committed by people of different genders. The proportion of female prisoners, the severity of crimes, and other essential aspects can be used as criteria for comparison. This work may help assess potential bias.
  • Gender diversity in the army. Attitudes towards women in military service are interesting to discuss. In an essay, you can present distinctive opinions. Mention the importance of involving people of all genders.

Short Essay Topics for College

  • Teenagers’ concerns. You can write a simple essay on the appropriate age to vote or the proper age to buy alcohol. You may also want to examine major reasons for misunderstanding between teenage children and their parents.
  • Best something ever. An excellent way to start a college essay is to write about something you admire, such as your favorite movie. What can you learn from it?
  • Someone inspirational. For example, why not write an essay about your favorite teacher? How did this person change your life?
  • Political issues in the US. Many short college essays are concerned with political life. You can write a winning essay about Electoral College or the flaws in the US voting system.
  • An abstract concept. You can define an idea in your short essay. For instance, write about consumerism and the existing definitions of this term. Which one is the most appropriate? Why?
  • Modern social values. The topic refers to the shift in moral values. For example, you can discuss the roles of wealth and personal beliefs. Compare them with the values of past eras to highlight the changes.
  • Contemporary addictions and methods to deal with them. Explore excessive smartphone use, gaming , and other new addictions. Include the ways of dealing with these problems.
  • A management theory overview. This paper can summarize individual findings related to management. Alternatively, you can present one of the theories of business development.
  • Proposal of a legal act. This topic is perfect for a law essay. For example, discuss the document’s purpose, stakeholders, and industry-specific implications. The intersection with other regulations is optional.
  • A geographic location. A short essay format is convenient for a description of a specific place. You can start by providing the basic facts about it. Include its population, area, resources, and several other parameters.
  • Definition of an economic term. In this short essay, analyze a term of your choice. For instance, discuss inflation, capital, clearing, or any other definition. Explain the term you’ve chosen in simple words.
  • A science to study. Choosing a science to learn is a potentially daunting task. In your essay, assess any field of study you like. Describe their benefits and pitfalls. You can also mention career prospects.

Great College Essay Ideas in Visual Arts

  • Historical periods in art. Your paper can dwell upon a specific era. Why did the Renaissance occur? What are the central peculiarities of Postmodernism ?
  • Artists and their personalities. Countless Cornell essays on art provide insight into artists’ legacy. Your essay writing can become a fascinating process if you focus on Leonardo, Paul Gauguin, Claude Monet, Andy Warhol, Artemisia Gentileschi, or Barbara Kruger.
  • Prospects of artistic forms. You can use your imagination and think of the world in the 2100s. Try to predict the movements that will become popular in 100 years.
  • Masterpieces. Essay writing practice is associated with the ability to narrow topics down. You can choose a specific work for your analysis from the following list: The Birth of Venice , The Scream , Starry Night , and Girl with a Pearl Earring .
  • Different genres and styles in visual art. Many distinctive genres characterize visual arts. They differ in style, period, and other aspects. In your essay, you can describe impressionism, surrealism , cubism, abstract art, and other genres.
  • Mediums in visual arts. Every art form is distinguished by the use of materials. Explore the peculiarities of oil paintings, prints, or watercolors.
  • Art galleries to visit around the world. You may want to choose one art gallery and describe its history. Your essay will be even more interesting if you add the descriptions of the most famous artworks found in the museum.
  • How auction houses work. Numerous art pieces and collectibles are sold at auctions. One of the world’s most famous auction houses is Sotheby’s. In your paper, present the workings of an auction of your choice. Add individual examples of profitable deals from its history.
  • The most expensive art objects. The cost of many classical paintings is enormous. The prices are usually estimated by qualified experts. Explore this topic in your essay and include information on the most expensive art objects.
  • The comparison of classical and contemporary art forms. Art is a dynamic environment that is constantly evolving. New genres and forms of expression appear regularly. In your paper, compare classical canvases with modern means of creative expression such as graffiti . What influences the emergence of new art forms?
  • Rescued artworks and their history. History knows examples of great artworks that were found centuries after their disappearance. Your essay can study several art objects saved during wars.

Conspiracy-Related College Essay Topics That Stand Out

  • Space exploration . If your essay requirements concerning the topic are not too strict, you can try to answer some of the following questions. Did “a giant leap for mankind” really occur? Why was the Moon project shut down? Is there life on Mars ?
  • Wealth distribution. An excellent essay for college students can focus on the allocation of resources. Is there a league of people who own or control all the resources ? How did the world’s wealthiest people earn their money?
  • Secret societies of the past and present. Does the Illuminati exist? Can such a secret society persist in the modern world?
  • Catastrophes and reasons behind them. Why did Titanic drown? Was the curse of the Pharaoh real? Was the Chernobyl nuclear disaster an accident, or was it an unsuccessful experiment of KGB?
  • JFK’s assassination. Who killed the most loved president? Why was the investigation so inadequate? Were any other countries’ agents involved?
  • Aliens among us. Does Area 51 exist? What do governments hide? With questions like these, essay writing for college students can be exciting!
  • Did Adolf Hitler escape after World War II? One of the most mysterious conspiracy theories is the possible escape of Adolf Hitler. Some people believe that the Nazi leader moved to Argentina after World War II. Your essay may discuss whether his suicide was staged.
  • Is HIV an experimental biological weapon against humanity? The end of the 20th century was a difficult time. During this period, a suspicion arose that HIV was a biological weapon. Pharmaceutical companies and governments were blamed for this. What caused this conspiracy?
  • Did Elvis Presley fake his death? Elvis Presley , the idol of millions, passed away long ago. However, many fans don’t believe in this outcome. A conspiracy theory was born that the musician faked his death. You can explore its implications and determine what it says about American pop culture.
  • 5G cell towers exposure and accusations against Bill Gates . Explore the public fears related to the potential exposure to 5G cell towers. Include the experts’ opinions and assess the role of Bill Gates as one of the promoters of fast Internet.
  • Flat Earth theory and its followers. In recent years, many flat Earth proponents have emerged worldwide. In your essay, compare their arguments with officially existing data. Why is this conspiracy so widespread?
  • COVID-19 conspiracy theory. Certain groups of people doubt the threat of the pandemic. They believe that the coronavirus is a fictional problem. Your essay might focus on the evidence for the virus’s existence.

Other College Essay Topics

  • Personal reasons to become a nurse
  • US women’s rights movements in 1850-1900
  • The importance of the “knowledge utilization” concept
  • Ethical responsibilities to children
  • Work-life balance in employed women
  • The environmental impacts of the food and hospitality industry
  • Personal time management challenges
  • Conspiracy theories and distrust of experts
  • Brazilian business from personal experience
  • Panathenaic festival: personal experience
  • Social stratification in the United States
  • Leadership and personal philosophy of management
  • Trends in atmospheric carbon concentration over 150 years
  • How business organizations value diversity
  • Personal experience: how being bullied shaped me
  • Automation of insurance industry: personal reflection
  • Environmental trends showing improvement
  • Food processor description and how to use it
  • Catharanthus roseus: description and its benefits
  • Racial identity based on personal experiences
  • Tap dance: history and personal attitude
  • How educational institutions value diversity
  • National Association of Social Workers code of ethics
  • Continental mountain ranges and ocean lifecycle
  • Personal experiences and social imagination
  • Personal ethical framework – decision-making
  • Creating personal business plan
  • Sustainability and waste management
  • Gun violence as the social justice issue
  • Ethical theory and personal morals
  • Reducing emissions of carbon dioxide and other gases
  • Arts and crafts movement in Melbourne
  • Energy management and nuclear power plants development
  • A personal code of ethics
  • What’s significant about Mesopotamia geography?
  • Personal budget planning: saving, investing, and donating
  • Intersectionality of personal identities
  • “Not so new” New World Order. Conspiracy theories
  • Picture exchange communication system research
  • Urbanisation impact on streams and rivers
  • Savoring and flow in personal experience
  • Personal leadership portrait: leadership reflections
  • Researching of personal health recorder
  • The notion of race through the prism of personal experience
  • Students’ life in college: classes, exams, courses
  • Spatial and social mobility: barriers and restrictions
  • Air quality and pollution: solution measures
  • Why understanding personal biases is important
  • Human condition to adapt: factors
  • Project management process description
  • Criminal justice and workforce diversity
  • The art style of Mueller analysis
  • Quality measures description
  • Haiti and Japan’s earthquake comparative analysis
  • Ethical relativism and freedom of speech
  • Common patterns of social behaviors
  • Racial discrimination regarding attraction and romance
  • Theory of caritative caring by K. Eriksson: description and main concepts
  • Unfair treatment experience based on cultural diversity
  • Madeline Leininger’s theory of culture care diversity and universality
  • DNA fingerprinting technology: description and use
  • Gloucester City community description
  • Violence against queer community and construction of gender
  • American nation’s changes after the Civil Rights Movement
  • Positive things to learn from Medieval culture
  • Racial tensions and immigration in California
  • Solar energy: advantages and disadvantages
  • The Salem Witch Trials history
  • Nuclear accidents danger analysis
  • Risk, expatiating on its types, classifications and methods of control
  • The impact of individualism, ethnic nationalism, and class rule on society
  • Television, movies, and games’ relationships with culture
  • Catastrophic organizational failure in examples
  • Thermal power generating plant – impact
  • Racial inequality, immigration, and healthcare in the US
  • Scenario investigation of waste management in Australia
  • Environmental science: main principles
  • The important steps that are involved in the processing of images
  • COVID-19 conspiracy: critical thinking
  • Climate disruption: understanding the problem and its significance

✍️ Topics for Different College Essay Types

Below you’ll find writing prompts for problem solution, cause and effect, and definition essays. There’s also a section with personal statement essay topics. Check them out!

  • In a problem-solution essay , you need to introduce an issue and suggest several ways to fight it. Usually, each body paragraph describes a different solution. This essay aims to convince the audience that these scenarios are the best ways to eliminate the problem.
  • In a cause and effect essay , you need to discuss a problem, its reasons, and possible consequences. It’s better to pay attention to topics that involve multiple studies of the issue (you can read our cause and effect essay guide to learn more.)
  • In a definition essay , you need to explain a term, concept, or idea. Sometimes a definition is only a part of a more extensive research paper. It’s crucial to study the topic from different perspectives to provide an extended definition. Before you start working on your essay, make sure that the meaning of the word you’ve chosen is not too simple.
  • In a personal statement , you write about yourself. Writing a personal statement or a transfer essay is crucial when applying to college. How do you make it a winning paper? Read our personal statement guide .

Problem Solution Essay Topics for College Students

  • How can students contribute to educational system changes in the United States? Discuss student communities and their impact on college life. Do students need to have more power and control over changes in the educational system?
  • Ensuring access to clean water in developing African countries. Describe the achievements of charities that aim to help countries such as Ethiopia. You may also write about the costs of technologies that filter water. What are the possible solutions with a limited budget?
  • How can you help make energy cleaner? Try to think about what you can do on campus that will enable clean energy access. Decide whether it should be a part of your curriculum.
  • Ways of reducing plastic waste in oceans. Research the current efforts of environmental organizations and big businesses. Then, evaluate them and find the best solution.
  • Healthy eating habits among children. Think about the right age to start educating children on healthy eating. Find several possible ways to develop the proper habits without forcing children.
  • How can students address sustainability and climate change? Describe your participation in ecological projects, communities, etc. You can also discuss the possible things you and other students can do without spending too much time and money.
  • Ways of stopping healthcare rising costs in the United States. Highlight the current problems of the healthcare model. What measures does the government take to solve them? Try to find the best way to optimize the resources.
  • Psychological support for children who suffered from violence. Research the techniques specialists use when working with children. What do you find more preferable: therapy or medication? Suggest how we can protect children from further offenses.
  • How can we provide equal chances to children who want to receive an education? For this essay, find as much information as possible about financial aid , including grants, loans, and other projects. What’s the best way to make education accessible to everyone?
  • Reducing homelessness in the United States. Study the factors that make people homeless and what the government does to fight it. Then try to come up with an action plan.

Cause and Effect Essay Topics for College Students

  • The effects of regular alcohol consumption on women’s health. Everyone knows that excessive alcohol consumption has highly adverse effects. In your essay, you can discuss the causes of alcoholism in women. Try to find specific information about diseases, psychological problems, and lifestyle changes related to them.
  • What causes bullying among preschool children? Children might get violent due to many factors. Describe what beliefs and behavioral patterns influence their actions at preschool age.
  • What are the economic effects of the 2020 lockdown? Write about the changes in the labor market, remote jobs, and new opportunities. How did small businesses manage to survive in extreme circumstances?
  • Lack of education in African countries: causes and effects. Discuss why children in some African countries don’t have access to education. Then, explain how it affects labor markets and economies. Make sure to choose only one country as a research subject.
  • What will be the effects of implementing higher taxes on tobacco? Will it inspire people to quit smoking or buy fewer tobacco products? Study the previous cases of such measures and predict the outcomes.
  • How does social media affect communication in families? For this essay, research the impact of social media on family relationships. Do social media users communicate more or less with their closest relatives? on family relationships. Do social media users communicate more or less with their closest relatives?
  • The causes and effects of glacier melting . Global warming, ozone depletion, and many other factors contribute to this process. Discuss how this issue influences people and animals.
  • What would happen if everyone started using electric cars? Study the benefits and drawbacks of electric vehicles. You might discuss the CO2 emissions and safety.
  • What are the effects of animal hunting in the United States. We can call hunting a hobby, a sport, and even an illegal activity. In your essay, describe the current laws and why people want to hunt. How do these activities influence animals’ populations?
  • The causes and effects of chemical pollution in China. China is the biggest manufacturer of goods in the world. However, the waste that the factories produce becomes dangerous for its ecology. In your essay, research how chemical pollution affects the everyday life and health of the Chinese people.

Definition Essay Topics for College

  • Behaviorism in psychology and philosophy. Consider writing your essay on behaviorism as a psychological movement at the beginning of the 20 th century. Additionally, you can provide a broader definition by researching behaviorism in philosophy. century. Additionally, you can provide a broader definition by researching behaviorism in philosophy.
  • How can we define egoism? People interpret human behavior and character traits in different ways. Someone who seems to be an egoist to you can seem like someone with a sense of self-worth to another person. You can provide your own viewpoint on this issue.
  • What is the definition of evil? Some people believe in eternal evil, while others see evil even in the littlest bad things that happen to them. In your opinion, what makes someone or something evil?
  • Does the term “commodification” only apply to goods? In the modern world, everything has value. Discuss the moral aspects of commodification and the limits of its application.
  • What is your definition of the word “endurance”? You can compare the physical abilities of athletes and non-athletes. Don’t forget to mention mental stamina that involves dealing with psychological pressure and overcoming difficulties.
  • Does the word “ambition” have a positive or negative meaning? Naturally, you can’t give a single answer to this question. Instead, you can discuss both sides of this concept in your paper.
  • How can you define the word “dualism”? Describe all the meanings of the word “dualism” in philosophy and daily life. Don’t forget to provide your understanding of the concept. You may also explain why this term is controversial.
  • What does the word “identity” make you think of? Cover all the meanings of this word. Begin with a set of qualities that defines a person. Also, you may include a psychological interpretation of the term.
  • What is your interpretation of the word “justice”? Discuss the legal definition of this concept. Also, you can write about the moral aspects and the subjective meaning of the term. Describe how justice is related to rewards and punishments and its place in the modern world.
  • What are your thoughts about realism? This term is used in many disciplines. For example, it’s prominent in literature and art. In your essay, you may describe realism as a philosophical concept and its different forms and perceptions.

Themes for Your Personal Statement Essay

  • Your academic credentials. When writing about your academic achievements, it is appropriate to mention the major things like your degree or courses you’ve had. It’s better to focus on the moral lessons you’ve learned rather than your grades and certificates.
  • Your personality traits. A successful acceptance essay will reveal your character. Admission officers want to know who the applicants are. Every university has its specific culture, so they should make sure you can fit in.
  • An event that changed your life. Of course, your college entry essay can’t be just an enumeration of character traits. Describe some circumstances where your personal qualities manifested themselves. Again, it’s best to focus on the lessons you’ve learned!
  • Commitment as your character trait. Your college admittance essay should also show your dedication. Why do you want to study there? Why do you want to take the course you’ve chosen? What are you ready to do for your alma mater?
  • Humor in your life. Even Harvard personal statement essays are often characterized by humor. Write about your failures in a funny way, and admission officers will see your ability to stand up and fight.
  • Academic goals and ways to achieve them. Choosing a field to study is a responsible step. You can describe this process in a personal statement. Justify your choice and mention the academic skills necessary for this particular field.
  • Creative writing . When applying to a course in English, it can be effective to write a poem rather than a typical description of your educational background.
  • Views on society and contemporary values. You can impress the committee by discussing your opinions. One convenient approach is to focus on modern society and its values. Analyze the foundations of a particular cultural environment and assess interaction gaps.
  • Professional objectives you want to achieve. Without mentioning professional goals, a personal statement will be incomplete. One effective strategy is to evaluate the desired prospects you want to achieve. They can be related to education as well as work. Pay attention to relevant resources needed to acquire optimal skills.
  • Cultural background from an ethnic perspective. A personal statement can be focused not only on your academic experience but also on your cultural background . Include the basic facts about your ethnicity, parents, beliefs, family values, and other information. This way, you’ll present yourself comprehensively and impartially.
  • Self-evaluation over time: personal strengths and skills.  Both short- and long-term perspectives are worth mentioning. Assessing individual development and career growth can provide you with a helpful timeline.

🚫 College Essay Topics to Avoid

When it comes to college essays, some topics might produce a wrong impression or offend your audience. That is why you need to know what kind of content is not suitable for your academic writing.

Here are the most common examples of the topics that you should avoid:

  • Your personal life. Better leave the stories about your breakups aside. For a successful application essay, you can focus on the other areas of your life. Try to choose a topic that will show how well you are suited for the college.
  • Inappropriate humor. Provocative, mean, or cruel jokes are not suitable for college essays. Your audience probably won’t consider such humor clever or funny. If you are unsure if a joke fits your task, don’t hesitate to ask your professor.
  • Tragic stories. This trope is critical to avoid when writing essays about yourself. It’s okay to mention tragic events, but it’s best to avoid making a pessimistic narrative out of your paper. Instead, you can describe such occurrences as challenges to overcome and focus on the positives.
  • Sensitive or controversial topics. Avoid them if you know that they may offend your readers. Politics, religion, abortions, and cruelty are not the best topics for college essays. If your assignment requires writing an essay on one of those topics, make sure you don’t make bold statements or provoke your audience.
  • Cliché topics. It’s better to avoid writing about your academic achievements, volunteering, or winning a sports competition. Admissions officers and professors have read similar essays thousands of times.
  • Overly narrow topics . It’s good to choose a topic that stands out because it’s not cliché. However, it becomes harder to find enough relevant information if it’s too obscure or limited. Choose a topic like this only if you are sure you will have enough data to research.
  • Insulting someone. Offensiveness is a wrong approach to your assignment that creates a negative impression. It’s crucial to stay objective and professional when it comes to academic writing.
  • Fancy words. Avoid overcomplicating your essay’s title and its contents. It’s also not a great idea to begin your essay with a trite quote. Instead, it’s best to prioritize logic and clear structure during writing.
  • Vague topics . It will likely make your essay lack a focus, which will come off as unprofessional. Make sure to always narrow your topic down to a particular issue.
  • Untrue and unrealistic topics. It might be interesting to fantasize about impossible scenarios and get creative. Still, remember that you need to support your statements with solid evidence. It’s much harder to do when you deal with unrealistic topics.

We hope these college essay topics helped you make a great choice. If you need more proposal argument essay topics, feel free to use our topic generator . Let us know in the comments what topic you’ve chosen!

This might be interesting for you:

  • College Essay Writing 101—the Comprehensive Guide
  • How to Write a Creative Essay: Tips, Topics and Techniques
  • Descriptive Writing Exercises to Boost Your Imagination
  • Terrific Essay Tools for Fast and Simple Writing
  • How to Use the Right Gender-Neutral Pronouns
  • How to Write an Outline That Will Earn an A+ Grade

✏️ College Essay Topic FAQ

Think about something that makes you genuinely interested. You will need to research the subject. So if you are bored from the outset, you won’t be able to do a good job and impress your readers.

A good topic doesn’t have to be very serious. It means that the subject under study should fascinate you. Then you would be able to make it enjoyable for others, too. Study something connected with your hobby, favorite author, or even a country.

To choose a good topic, you need to think about your assignment. Different issues are appropriate for argumentative, persuasive, and other types of essays. The main thing is that the subject should interest you. Your essay would be more exciting for the readers if you have fun writing it.

If you are lucky enough to choose a topic for yourself, you can have fun writing the essay. Don’t waste this opportunity! To figure out the best subject, think about your favorite things. If you want to share something with others, write an essay about it.

  • Writing Tips: Thesis Statements: Writers Workshop, The Center for Writing Studies, Illinois
  • Essay Introductions: UMGC, the University System of Maryland
  • How to Read an Assignment: William C. Rice, for the Writing Center at Harvard University
  • Thesis Statements: The Writing Center, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill
  • Essay Writing: University of Wollongong
  • How to Write High-Quality Papers and Essays More Quickly: Ransom Patterson, College Info Geek
  • Essay Tips from Andrew K. Strickler, Dean of Admission and Financial Aid: Connecticut College
  • Essays that Worked: Hamilton College
  • Popular Application Essay Topics: The Princeton Review
  • Women’s Health Topics: US Food & Drug Administration
  • Essay Topics: Yale College Undergraduate Admissions
  • Essay Topics and Tips: College of Arts and Sciences, Lewis & Clark
  • Essay Prompts: Seattle Pacific University
  • Essay Questions, Undergraduate Admissions: University of Michigan
  • Writing the College Essay: Babson College
  • The Essay: NYS Higher Education Services Corporation
  • Over 1,000 Writing Prompts for Students: The New York Times
  • How to Write a College Essay: Sofia Tokar, Southern New Hampshire University
  • Personal Essay Topics and Prompts: ThoughtCo
  • Who’s the Most Significant Historical Figure?: The Guardian
  • The Dos and Don’ts of Campus Life: CollegeXpress
  • Climate Change: National Geographic
  • 4 Types of Parenting Styles and Their Effect on Kids: Very Well Family
  • Campus Life: What to Expect: My Future
  • Gender Equality and Women Empowerment: United Nations
  • 100 Creative Writing Prompts for Writers: Writer’s Digest
  • 13 Benefits and Challenges of Cultural Diversity at Workplace: Hult International Business School
  • 7 Benefits of Gender Diversity at Workplace: Workplace.com
  • Artists: The Art History
  • Art Movements: Artyfactory
  • 36 of the Most Popular Conspiracy Theories in the US: Insider
  • Personal Statements: University of Connecticut
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Guide on How to Write a 5 Paragraph Essay Effortlessly

paragraph essay topics

What is a 5-paragraph Essay

5-paragraph essay is a common format used in academic writing, especially in schools and standardized tests. This type of essay is structured into five distinct sections: an introduction, three body paragraphs, and a conclusion. The introduction serves to present the main topic and ends with a thesis statement, which outlines the primary argument or points that will be discussed. This format is favored because it provides a clear and organized way to present information and arguments.

The three body paragraphs each focus on a single point that supports the thesis statement. Each paragraph begins with a topic sentence that introduces the main idea of the paragraph, followed by supporting details, examples, and evidence. This structured approach helps the writer stay on topic and provides the reader with a clear understanding of the arguments being made. The consistency in structure also aids in the logical flow of the essay, making it easier for the reader to follow and comprehend the writer's points.

The conclusion, the final paragraph, summarizes the main points discussed in the essay and restates the thesis in a new way. It provides closure to the discussion and reinforces the essay's main argument. The 5-paragraph essay format is an effective tool for teaching students how to organize their thoughts and present them clearly and logically. It is a foundational skill that serves as a building block for more complex writing tasks in the future.

Guide on How to Write a 5 Paragraph Essay

Writing a 5-paragraph essay becomes manageable if you follow these simple and effective tips below from our admission essay writing service :

How to Write a 5 Paragraph Essay

1. Plan Before You Write: Before you start writing, create an outline to organize your thoughts and ensure a logical flow of ideas. This will help you stay on track and cover all your points. Draft an outline with headings for the introduction, each body paragraph, and the conclusion. Under each heading, jot down the main points and supporting details.

2. Focus on Main Points : Stick to your main arguments and avoid adding unnecessary information. This keeps your essay clear and easy to understand. If your thesis is about the benefits of exercise, each body paragraph should discuss a specific benefit, such as improved health, increased energy, or better mood.

3. Maintain a Smooth Flow : Use transition words to link your paragraphs and ideas. This helps the reader follow your argument seamlessly.

Examples : "Furthermore," "In addition," "Moreover," "On the other hand," "In conclusion."

Example Sentence : "In addition to improving physical health, exercise also enhances mental well-being."

4. Provide Strong Evidence: Use facts, examples, and quotes to back up your arguments. This makes your essay more convincing and credible.

Example : "According to a study by the World Health Organization, regular physical activity can reduce the risk of chronic diseases by up to 30%."

5. Vary Your Sentence Structure : Mix short and long sentences to keep your writing engaging. This helps maintain the reader's interest and makes your essay more dynamic.

6. Proofread and Revise : Review your essay for grammar mistakes, spelling errors, and unclear sentences. Make necessary revisions to improve clarity and coherence. : After writing your essay, take a break and then read it again. This helps you spot mistakes you might have missed initially.

7. Stay Focused on Your Thesis: Ensure that all your paragraphs support your thesis statement. If your thesis is about the importance of education, every paragraph should relate to how education impacts individuals and society.

8. Manage Your Time: Allocate specific times for planning, writing, and revising your essay. This helps you stay organized and avoid last-minute stress. For example, spend 10 minutes outlining, 30 minutes writing, and 10 minutes proofreading for a 50-minute essay task.

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5 Paragraph Essay Format

The five-paragraph essay format is designed to provide a clear and straightforward structure for presenting ideas and arguments. This format is broken down into an introduction, three body paragraphs, and a conclusion, each serving a specific purpose in the essay.

Introduction 📚 Details 📝 Example 💡
Hook: Start with a sentence that grabs the reader's attention. This could be a quote, a surprising fact, or a rhetorical question. Background Information: Provide a brief context or background information about the topic. Example: "Education is the most powerful weapon which you can use to change the world," said Nelson Mandela.
Example: In today's world, education is more important than ever for achieving success and creating opportunities.
Thesis Statement: State your main argument or point clearly. This will guide the rest of your essay. Example: This essay will discuss the importance of education, its impact on career success, and its role in personal development.
Body Paragraph 1 📄
Topic Sentence: Introduce the first main point. Supporting Details: Provide evidence, examples, and explanations to support the point. Example: First and foremost, education provides individuals with the knowledge and skills necessary for career success.
Supporting Details: Provide evidence, examples, and explanations to support the point. Example: For instance, studies show that individuals with higher education levels tend to have higher earning potential and more job opportunities.
Body Paragraph 2 📄
Topic Sentence: Introduce the second main point. Supporting Details: Provide evidence, examples, and explanations to support the point. Example: Additionally, education fosters critical thinking and problem-solving skills.
Supporting Details: Provide evidence, examples, and explanations to support the point. Example: Through coursework and real-world applications, students learn to analyze situations, make informed decisions, and solve complex problems.
Body Paragraph 3 📄
Topic Sentence: Introduce the third main point. Supporting Details: Provide evidence, examples, and explanations to support the point. Example: Finally, education plays a crucial role in personal development and growth.
Supporting Details: Provide evidence, examples, and explanations to support the point. Example: Education exposes individuals to diverse perspectives and ideas, encouraging them to develop a broader understanding of the world and their place in it.
Conclusion 🎓
Restate Thesis: Summarize the main argument in a new way. Summarize Main Points: Briefly recap the points discussed in the body paragraphs. Closing Thought: End with a final thought or call to action.
Example: In conclusion, education is essential for career success, critical thinking, and personal growth. Example: By providing knowledge and skills, fostering problem-solving abilities, and promoting personal development, education lays the foundation for a successful and fulfilling life. Example: Investing in education is investing in a brighter future for individuals and society as a whole.

Types of 5 Paragraph Essay 

There are several types of five-paragraph essays, each with a slightly different focus or purpose. Here are some of the most common types of five-paragraph essays:

Types of 5 Paragraph Essay 

  • Narrative essay : A narrative essay tells a story or recounts a personal experience. It typically includes a clear introductory paragraph, body sections that provide details about the story, and a conclusion that wraps up the narrative.
  • Descriptive essay: A descriptive essay uses sensory language to describe a person, place, or thing. It often includes a clear thesis statement that identifies the subject of the description and body paragraphs that provide specific details to support the thesis.
  • Expository essay: An expository essay offers details or clarifies a subject. It usually starts with a concise introduction that introduces the subject, is followed by body paragraphs that provide evidence and examples to back up the thesis, and ends with a summary of the key points.
  • Persuasive essay: A persuasive essay argues for a particular viewpoint or position. It has a thesis statement that is clear, body paragraphs that give evidence and arguments in favor of it, and a conclusion that summarizes the important ideas and restates the thesis.
  • Compare and contrast essay: An essay that compares and contrasts two or more subjects and looks at their similarities and differences. It usually starts out simply by introducing the topics being contrasted or compared, followed by body paragraphs that go into more depth on the similarities and differences, and a concluding paragraph that restates the important points.

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5 Paragraph Essay Example Topics

Choosing a specific and interesting topic can make your essay stand out. Here are 20 more engaging essay topics that provide a good starting point for your 5-paragraph paper:

  • Why Is Recycling Important for Our Planet?
  • The Day I Met My Best Friend
  • How Does Playing Sports Benefit Children?
  • What Are the Challenges of Being a Teenager Today?
  • A Time I Made a Difficult Decision
  • My Most Embarrassing Moment
  • How Can We Encourage People to Read More?
  • How I Spent My Last Summer Vacation
  • The Best Gift I Ever Received
  • What Makes a Good Friend?
  • My Experience Learning a New Skill
  • How Do Video Games Affect Our Brains?
  • Why Is It Important to Learn About Different Cultures?
  • The Day I Got My First Pet
  • How Can Schools Better Prepare Students for the Future?
  • An Adventure I Will Never Forget
  • A Time I Helped Someone in Need
  • What Are the Pros and Cons of Remote Work?
  • The Most Interesting Person I Have Met
  • How Does Peer Pressure Affect Our Decisions?

General Grading Rubric for a 5 Paragraph Essay

The following is a general grading rubric that can be used to evaluate a five-paragraph essay:

Criteria 📊 Details 📝

Based on the points discussed, your paper needs to show a good grasp of the topic, clear structure, strong writing skills, and critical thinking. Teachers use this rubric to assess essays comprehensively and give feedback on what you do well and where you can improve. If you want to simplify meeting your professors' expectations, you can buy an essay from our experts and see how it can ease your academic life!

Five Paragraph Essay Examples

Final thoughts.

Writing a five-paragraph essay might seem challenging at first, but it doesn't have to be difficult. By following these simple steps and tips, you can break down the process into manageable parts and create a clear, concise, and well-organized essay.

Start with a strong thesis statement, use topic sentences to guide your paragraphs, and provide evidence and analysis to support your ideas. Remember to revise and proofread your work to ensure it is error-free and coherent. With time and practice, you'll be able to write a five-paragraph essay with ease and confidence. Whether you're writing for school, work, or personal projects, these skills will help you communicate your ideas effectively!

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Adam Jason

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.

paragraph essay topics

  • Updated definition, writing tips and format
  • Added FAQs and topics
  • Secrets of the Five-Paragraph Essay | UMGC Effective Writing Center . (n.d.). University of Maryland Global Campus. https://www.umgc.edu/current-students/learning-resources/writing-center/writing-resources/writing/secrets-five-paragraph-essay#:~:text=The%20five%2Dparagraph%20essay%20consists  
  • Outline for a Five-Paragraph Essay . (n.d.). https://www.bucks.edu/media/bcccmedialibrary/pdf/FiveParagraphEssayOutlineJuly08_000.pdf  

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137 Intriguing Cause & Effect Essay Topics for Students

Teach critical thinking, logic, and the art of persuasion.

What are some reasons a teacher may ban cell phones in class?

Cause-and-effect essays aren’t just a way to help students strengthen their writing skills. They’ll also learn critical thinking, logic, and the art of persuasion. In addition, they teach students to demonstrate how one thing directly influences another. Coming up with engaging cause-and-effect essay topics can be challenging, but we have you covered. This list of ideas includes a variety of topics that range from social and cultural movements to mental health and the environment.

Science and Environment Cause & Effect Essay Topics

  • Describe the effect of urbanization on the environment.
  • What is the impact of air pollution on health?
  • What are the causes and consequences of plastics on marine life?
  • What is the impact of rising sea temperatures on fish and marine life?
  • Describe the impact of human behavior on global warming.

Describe the impact of human behavior on global warming. Cause and effect essay

  • What is the effect of social media on environmentalism?
  • What causes volcanic eruptions?
  • What causes trees to die?
  • What are the effects of gravity?
  • Why are plants green?
  • Why do trees shed their leaves?
  • What causes a species to become endangered?
  • What are some of the causes of animals losing their habitats?
  • Describe the effect of overpopulation on the environment.
  • What are the effects of famine on human population?
  • What are the causes and effects of Antarctica floods?
  • What are the effects of pollution on the ocean?
  • What effect do cars have on the environment?
  • Why is it important to manage wildfires?
  • What has been the impact of DNA on crime scene processing?

What has been the impact of DNA on crime scene processing?

  • What are the impacts of deforestation in Brazil?
  • What are the effects of GMO foods on human health?
  • What are the impacts of immunizations on human health?

Technology and Social Media Cause & Effect Essay Topics

  • What are the effects of social media on adolescent development?
  • How does technology affect productivity?
  • What are the effects of video games on childhood development?
  • How do cell phones affect human relationships?
  • What are some reasons a teacher might ban cell phones from class?

What are some reasons a teacher might ban cell phones from class? Cause and effect essay

  • What effects do cell phones have on sleep?
  • What effects did the invention of the Internet have on technology?
  • What were the origins of cyberbullying?
  • What are the effects of tablet use on small children?
  • How has online dating changed relationships?
  • What makes some people less likely to use social media?
  • What are the effects of social media on privacy?
  • How does the rise of TikTok affect Facebook and Instagram?
  • In what ways could social media lead to extremism?
  • What is the impact of social media on the increasing popularity of plastic surgery and other enhancements?

What is the impact of social media on the increasing popularity of plastic surgery and other enhancements?

  • What are some of the benefits of owning a smartphone and what are some of the drawbacks?
  • What has been the impact of online shopping on brick-and-mortar stores?
  • What has been the impact of smartphones on marriages and relationships?
  • What are the causes and effects of texting while driving?
  • What has the rise of “influencers” meant for Hollywood?
  • In what ways have photo filters influenced young people’s self-esteem?

Culture and Social Issues Cause & Effect Essay Topics

  • What are some of the reasons for substance abuse in young people?
  • What are some of the effects of bullying?
  • How does economic status affect the quality of health care?
  • What are some of the causes of homelessness?
  • Explain the effects of ignorance on discrimination.
  • What are the impacts of death sentences on social justice?

What are the impacts of death sentences on social justice? Cause and effect essay

  • How does financial success affect societal privilege?
  • What effects does growing up poor have on children?
  • In what ways does religion influence society?
  • What are the effects of immigration on a host country?
  • What are the effects of ageism on job opportunities?
  • What is the impact of LGBTQ+ representation in TV and movies?
  • What are the effects of school shootings on politics?
  • How do school uniforms affect students?
  • What are the impacts of high student debt?
  • What are the impacts of body shaming on people?
  • What were the lasting impacts of the AIDS epidemic on society?

What were the lasting impacts of the AIDS epidemic on society? cause and effect essay

  • What impact does banning abortion have in the United States?
  • What has been the impact of marriage equality in the United States?
  • What are the causes and effects of noise pollution?
  • What are the causes and effects of inflation on the economy?
  • What are the effects of TV shows on our behavior?

Sports Cause & Effect Essay Topics

  • Examine the effects of exercise on mental health.
  • What led to baseball being an iconic American sport?
  • What drives people to participate in extreme sports?
  • In what ways did globalization affect modern sports?
  • What were the effects of doping on amateur and professional sports?
  • Select a sport and write about the historical factors that led to the popularization of that sport.

paragraph essay topics

  • Describe the ways in which youth sports influence a child’s development.
  • What were the driving forces behind the first Olympics?
  • How can team sports help develop social skills?
  • How have e-sports changed the sporting landscape?
  • In what ways do race biases influence sports?

In what ways do race biases influence sports.

  • What are the effects of regular workouts on immunity?
  • How does participating in sports affect leadership skills?
  • In what ways can sports lead to character development?
  • What effect does famous athletes’ social commentary have on their fans?

History Cause & Effect Essay Topics

  • What are the effects of the war in Syria on the United States?
  • What have been the lasting effects of the Civil Rights Movement?
  • What were the causes and effects of the attack on Pearl Harbor?
  • What led up to the Berlin Wall being torn down and what effects did that have?

What led up to the Berlin Wall being torn down and what effects did that have? Cause and effect essay

  • What lasting impact did 9/11 have on modern American society?
  • What were the causes of the Salem Witch Trials?
  • What was the cultural impact of the Spanish-American War?
  • How has globalization led to modern-day slavery?
  • What events led to the fall of the Roman Empire?
  • What were the impacts of the Great Depression on women’s employment?
  • How did cartels come into existence? What effect have they had on the United States and Mexico?
  • What were the causes and effects of the Women’s Liberation Movement?
  • Give an example of colonialism in history and name the resulting impact to the affected society.

Give an example of colonialism in history and name the resulting impact to the affected society.

  • What led to the rise of ISIS and what has the impact been on international security?
  • What factors led to the Titanic’s sinking?
  • What were the causes and effects of the Vietnam War?
  • Choose an American president. What led him to become president and what were the effects of his presidency?

Mental Health Cause & Effect Essay Topics

  • How can stress affect the immune system?
  • How does social anxiety affect young people?
  • How can high academic expectations lead to depression?
  • What are the effects of divorce on young people?
  • How does service in the armed forces lead to post-traumatic stress disorder?

How does service in the armed forces lead to post-traumatic stress disorder? Cause and effect essay topic

  • What are the effects of mindfulness on mental health?
  • Describe the ways in which the COVID-19 pandemic has impacted mental health.
  • How does childhood trauma impact childhood development?
  • What impact does witnessing violence have on mental health?
  • What is behind increasingly high levels of anxiety in modern American society?

What is behind increasingly high levels of anxiety in modern American society? cause and effect essay topic

  • What are the causes and effects of panic attacks?
  • What are the causes and consequences of high stress in the workplace?
  • What are some of the causes of insomnia and in what ways does it affect mental health?
  • What is the impact of staying home for an extended period of time?

Current Events Cause & Effect Essay Topics

  • Choose a local public education campaign. What are the effects of that campaign?
  • What are the causes and effects of migration?
  • What are the causes and effects of terrorist attacks?

What are the causes and effects of terrorist attacks?

  • What are the effects of legalizing genetic engineering research?
  • How do low voting rates impact elections and government?
  • What is the effect of raising the minimum wage?
  • What are the effects of globalization on society?
  • How does gerrymandering affect election outcomes?
  • What are the causes and effects of police brutality?
  • What are the causes and effects of political polarization?

What are the causes and effects of political polarization?

  • What are the causes and effects of fake news?
  • What are the effects of global war on citizens?
  • What is the effect of international aid on poverty or health?
  • Why do some countries have nuclear weapons, and what does this mean for other countries?

Education Cause & Effect Essay Topics

  • What are the effects of teacher quality on student success?
  • What are the causes and effects of student loan debt?
  • What are the causes and effects of low graduation rates?

What are the causes and effects of low graduation rates?

  • What are the effects of assigning homework?
  • What are the causes and effects of school funding disparities?
  • What are the causes and effects of the digital divide in education?
  • What is the effect of AI on education?
  • What are the causes and effects of student burnout?
  • Should students be required to study a foreign language in school, and what are the effects of learning a foreign language?

Should students be required to study a foreign language in school, and what are the effects of learning a foreign language?

  • What effect has the COVID pandemic had on education?
  • What are the effects of same-sex classrooms or schools?

What are your best cause-and-effect essay topics for students? Come exchange ideas in the We Are Teachers HELPLINE group on Facebook.

Plus, check out our list of interesting persuasive essay topics for kids and teens..

Coming up with cause and effect essay topics can be challenging, but we have you covered. Check out our list with a variety of topics.

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100+ Most Popular Rhetorical Analysis Essay Topics in 2024

Writing a rhetorical analysis essay can feel like stepping into a world where words are weapons, and arguments are battles to be won. Whether you’re in high school or college, finding the right rhetorical analysis essay topic can set the stage for a compelling and insightful piece. In 2024, with the ever-evolving landscape of media, literature, and public discourse, there’s no shortage of fascinating topics to choose from. So, let’s dive into some of the most popular and intriguing rhetorical analysis essay topics that can help you craft an essay that not only meets your academic requirements but also captivates your audience.

What is a Rhetorical Analysis Essay?

Rhetorical analysis is the process of examining how an author or speaker uses language to persuade or influence their audience. It goes beyond simply understanding the message; it involves analyzing the techniques and strategies used to convey that message effectively. This includes looking at the use of ethos, or credibility; pathos, or emotional appeal; and logos, or logical reasoning. By breaking down these elements, a rhetorical analysis seeks to understand the effectiveness of the communication and how it achieves its intended purpose.

The Importance of Choosing the Right Topic

Choosing the right topic is crucial. A well-chosen topic not only makes your writing process smoother but also engages your readers from the get-go. You want something that has enough depth for analysis, but not so obscure that you can’t find sources or examples. The following list of rhetorical analysis essay topics in 2024 offers a wide range of options, ensuring that you can find a topic that interests you and meets your assignment’s requirements.

Literary Works: Classic and Contemporary

  • The Use of Rhetoric in George Orwell’s “1984”
  • Persuasive Techniques in Harper Lee’s “To Kill a Mockingbird”
  • Rhetorical Strategies in Margaret Atwood’s “The Handmaid’s Tale”
  • Analyzing the Use of Irony in Mark Twain’s “The Adventures of Huckleberry Finn”
  • The Role of Pathos in Mary Shelley’s “Frankenstein”
  • How Shakespeare’s “Julius Caesar” Employs Rhetoric to Influence the Audience
  • The Use of Symbolism in F. Scott Fitzgerald’s “The Great Gatsby”
  • Rhetorical Analysis of Chimamanda Ngozi Adichie’s “We Should All Be Feminists”

Literary works often provide a rich ground for rhetorical analysis because of the intricate ways in which authors weave their arguments. Whether it’s classic literature or contemporary works, analyzing these texts helps you understand how authors have historically used rhetoric to influence societal perspectives.

Political Speeches: Power of Persuasion

  • The Rhetoric of Martin Luther King Jr.’s “I Have a Dream” Speech
  • Barack Obama’s 2008 Victory Speech: A Rhetorical Analysis
  • The Persuasive Techniques in Winston Churchill’s “We Shall Fight on the Beaches” Speech
  • Analyzing the Use of Ethos in John F. Kennedy’s Inaugural Address
  • The Role of Logos in Abraham Lincoln’s Gettysburg Address
  • How Rhetoric Shaped Donald Trump’s Presidential Campaign Speeches
  • Rhetorical Strategies in Greta Thunberg’s Climate Change Speeches
  • The Impact of Pathos in Nelson Mandela’s “I Am Prepared to Die” Speech

Political speeches are gold mines for rhetorical analysis. These speeches are crafted to influence, motivate, and sometimes manipulate public opinion. Analyzing these can provide deep insights into how leaders shape narratives and rally support.

Advertising Campaigns: Selling Through Words

  • Nike’s “Just Do It” Campaign: A Rhetorical Analysis
  • The Use of Pathos in Coca-Cola’s “Share a Coke” Campaign
  • Analyzing Ethos in Apple’s “Think Different” Ads
  • The Rhetorical Strategies Behind Dove’s “Real Beauty” Campaign
  • How Fear Appeals are Used in Anti-Smoking Ads
  • Persuasion in Political Campaign Advertisements
  • The Role of Humor in Old Spice’s “The Man Your Man Could Smell Like” Campaign
  • The Use of Rhetoric in Social Awareness Campaigns like “Stop the Spread”

Advertising is all about persuasion. Companies spend millions to craft messages that resonate with their audience, and rhetorical analysis can peel back the layers to reveal how these campaigns influence consumer behavior.

Analyzing Modern Media: Films, TV Shows, and Music

Film and television.

  • The Rhetoric of Heroism in Marvel’s “The Avengers”
  • Analyzing the Use of Rhetoric in “Breaking Bad”
  • How “The Handmaid’s Tale” TV Series Uses Rhetoric to Highlight Gender Inequality
  • The Persuasive Techniques in Netflix’s “13th”
  • Rhetorical Analysis of Jordan Peele’s “Get Out”
  • The Use of Pathos in Pixar’s “Up”
  • Analyzing Rhetorical Devices in HBO’s “Game of Thrones”
  • The Role of Ethos in “Schindler’s List”

Music and Lyrics

  • The Rhetoric of Protest in Bob Dylan’s “The Times They Are A-Changin’”
  • Analyzing Pathos in Adele’s “Someone Like You”
  • The Use of Logos in Kendrick Lamar’s “Alright”
  • How Beyoncé’s “Formation” Employs Ethos to Empower
  • The Persuasive Power of Lyrics in John Lennon’s “Imagine”
  • Rhetorical Analysis of Taylor Swift’s “Blank Space”
  • The Role of Repetition in Queen’s “We Will Rock You”
  • The Use of Symbolism in Pink Floyd’s “Another Brick in the Wall”

Modern media, whether films, TV shows, or music, is a reflection of the society we live in. Analyzing the rhetoric in these mediums not only deepens your understanding of the content but also helps you appreciate the subtle ways in which messages are conveyed.

Rhetoric in Social Media: The Digital Influence

  • The Rhetorical Power of Memes in Political Campaigns
  • How Influencers Use Rhetoric to Build Their Brand on Instagram
  • Analyzing the Rhetoric of Cancel Culture on Twitter
  • The Persuasive Techniques in Viral TikTok Trends
  • The Role of Pathos in Mental Health Advocacy on Social Media
  • Rhetorical Strategies in Facebook’s Data Privacy Communications
  • The Use of Ethos in LinkedIn Professional Branding
  • How Rhetoric Shapes Public Perception in Online Debates

Social media has revolutionized the way we communicate, and with it, the way rhetoric is used. Whether it’s a viral tweet or a YouTube video, rhetorical analysis can uncover the persuasive tactics that define the digital age.

Public Discourse: Shaping Society

  • The Rhetoric of Fear in Post-9/11 Political Speeches
  • Analyzing Ethos in the Me Too Movement’s Public Statements
  • The Role of Logos in the Gun Control Debate in America
  • Rhetorical Strategies in the Pro-Life vs. Pro-Choice Argument
  • The Persuasive Techniques in Environmental Activism Speeches
  • How Rhetoric Shapes Public Perception in Immigration Reform Debates
  • Analyzing the Use of Pathos in Campaigns Against Human Trafficking
  • The Rhetoric of Anti-Vaccination Movements on Social Media
  • Persuasive Strategies in the LGBTQ+ Rights Movement
  • The Impact of Rhetoric in the Black Lives Matter Movement’s Messaging

Public discourse plays a significant role in shaping societal beliefs and actions. Analyzing the rhetoric used in these discussions reveals how language can mobilize, polarize, and inspire change. By examining these topics, students can gain insight into the power of words in public arenas and their role in societal transformations.

Business and Corporate Communications: The Language of Commerce

  • Analyzing the Rhetoric in Amazon’s Corporate Social Responsibility Reports
  • The Use of Ethos in Apple’s Product Launch Presentations
  • Persuasive Techniques in Nike’s Social Justice Advertising
  • How Rhetoric is Used in Tesla’s Earnings Calls
  • The Role of Logos in Corporate Apologies after Scandals
  • Rhetorical Strategies in Coca-Cola’s Global Advertising Campaigns
  • Analyzing Pathos in Charity Appeals by Large Corporations
  • The Rhetoric of Inclusivity in Fortune 500 Companies’ Diversity Statements
  • The Impact of Rhetoric in Anti-Smoking Campaigns by Big Tobacco
  • Persuasive Techniques in Pharmaceutical Industry Advertising

Corporate communications are carefully crafted to influence public perception, consumer behavior, and shareholder confidence. By analyzing the rhetoric in business contexts, students can understand how companies use language to build brand loyalty, manage crises, and navigate the competitive market.

Cultural Movements: The Power of Collective Voice

  • Analyzing the Rhetoric in the Feminist Movement’s Key Texts
  • The Use of Ethos in the Civil Rights Movement’s Leadership Speeches
  • Rhetorical Strategies in the Gay Rights Movement’s Historic Campaigns
  • The Role of Pathos in the Anti-Apartheid Movement
  • Persuasive Techniques in the Native American Rights Movement
  • Analyzing Logos in the Disability Rights Movement’s Advocacy
  • The Rhetoric of Solidarity in the Labor Union Movement
  • The Impact of Rhetoric in the Anti-War Movement during the Vietnam Era
  • Persuasive Strategies in the Global Human Rights Movement
  • The Role of Social Media Rhetoric in the Arab Spring

Cultural movements are often driven by powerful rhetoric that rallies support and fosters a sense of unity. Analyzing these movements offers valuable insights into how language can drive social change and empower marginalized communities to voice their demands.

Education and Academia: Rhetoric in Learning

  • The Use of Rhetoric in Educational Policy Debates
  • Analyzing Ethos in University Commencement Speeches
  • Persuasive Techniques in the Debate Over Standardized Testing
  • How Rhetoric Shapes Public Opinion on Charter Schools
  • The Role of Pathos in Advocating for Higher Education Funding
  • Rhetorical Strategies in the Fight for Free College Tuition
  • Analyzing the Use of Logos in Academic Research Presentations
  • The Rhetoric of Inclusivity in Diversity and Inclusion Statements
  • Persuasive Techniques in Promoting STEM Education
  • The Impact of Rhetoric in the Debate Over Student Loan Forgiveness

Education and academia are fertile grounds for rhetorical analysis, as debates over policy, funding, and access to education often hinge on the effective use of language. By examining these topics, students can explore how rhetoric is used to advocate for educational reforms and shape public discourse around learning.

Health and Medicine: Persuasion in Public Health

  • The Rhetoric of Fear in Anti-Smoking Campaigns
  • Analyzing Pathos in Public Health Campaigns Against Obesity
  • The Role of Ethos in Vaccine Promotion Efforts
  • Persuasive Strategies in Anti-Drug Campaigns
  • How Rhetoric Shapes Public Perception of Mental Health Issues
  • The Use of Logos in Debates Over Universal Healthcare
  • Analyzing the Rhetoric of Pro-Choice vs. Pro-Life in Reproductive Health
  • The Impact of Rhetoric in Anti-AIDS Campaigns in the 1980s
  • Persuasive Techniques in Government Health Warnings on Tobacco Products
  • The Rhetoric of Wellness in Alternative Medicine Promotions

Tips for Writing Your Rhetorical Analysis Essay Topics

Writing a rhetorical analysis essay doesn’t have to be daunting. Here are a few tips to keep in mind:

  • Choose a Topic You’re Passionate About: If you’re interested in the topic, it’ll be easier to write and more engaging for your readers.
  • Identify the Rhetorical Strategies Used: Look for examples of ethos, pathos, and logos, and analyze how effective they are.
  • Support Your Analysis with Examples: Always back up your points with evidence from the text, speech, or media you’re analyzing.
  • Keep Your Audience in Mind: Consider who will be reading your essay and tailor your analysis to their interests and knowledge level.
  • Revise and Edit: Always leave time to go back and refine your essay. A polished essay will make a stronger impression.

Finding the right rhetorical analysis essay topic is the first step towards crafting a compelling essay. Whether you’re analyzing a classic novel, a modern film, or a political speech, the key is to dig deep and uncover the persuasive techniques at play. With the topics listed above, you’re well on your way to writing an essay that not only meets your academic requirements but also engages and enlightens your readers. Happy writing!

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How to Write a Topic Sentence? (Examples & Tips)

A topic sentence is an  important component of every well-structured paragraph . It introduces the main idea and sets the tone for the rest of the paragraph that follows.

Additionally, it is mandatory to structure introductory and supporting paragraphs for every kind of nonfiction writing, including ; essays, theses, blogs, articles, etc. So, perfecting the skill of writing strong topic sentences can be helpful to uplift your writing to the next level.

In this comprehensive blog post, we’re going to discuss useful tips and examples for writing a topic sentence.

What is a Topic Sentence?

A topic sentence refers to the first sentence of a paragraph that reflects its main points . The purpose of this sentence is to tell the readers about what information they are going to read in the rest of the paragraph. It usually comes at the start of a paragraph, though it can also be placed elsewhere.

A topic sentence is also known as;

  • Introductory sentence.
  • Focus sentence.
  • Opening sentence.

This introductory/topic sentence tells the readers that the paragraph is about the health benefits of doing regular exercise.

Tips to Write a Strong Topic Sentence

Here are some useful tips to help you craft compelling topic/introductory sentences;

1. Determine the Main Idea

As aforementioned a topic sentence is solely focused on the main idea or key point of the paragraph. So, before you begin to write the focus sentence, there’s a need to identify the main idea first.

Useful Tips:

Below are some tips to help you determine the main idea of a paragraph;

  • You should brainstorm the key points of a paragraph for which you’re going to craft the opening sentence. To do so, it would be helpful to jot down all the key details.
  • Now, we suggest creating an outline to logically organize these points.
  • Finally, narrow down to the specific idea that you think could enclose the essence of your paragraph.

, the focus/main idea might be that .

2. Start With a Hook

Let’s make your topic sentence compelling. For this, the next tip is to begin the opening sentence with a hook. By hook , we refer to the compelling/interesting statement that grabs the attention of readers.

Types of Hooks that You Can Include in A Topic Sentence:

Some commonly used hook types are lisG

ed below with examples for each;

  • A hook line can be a surprising fact or impressive data , like; "Did you know that just 6 minutes of reading a day can cut your stress levels by up to 68%?”
  • You can use a stimulating question as a hook statement, such as; " How can a simple , regular practice elevate your creative writing to the next level?”
  • You can address a solved mystery in the hook line; for example; “ What ultimately convinced the senator to change their mind?”
  • Also, you can use an anecdote or quote in the hook line, for instance; " Author Stephen King once said, 'Books are a uniquely portable magic.'"

3 . Write Something New and Interesting

Include something interesting and attention-grabbing in the introductory sentence. Avoid using statements that are obvious that everyone knows. So, to craft a topic sentence, write information in a new and unique way.

Tip: Avoid casual and unnecessary words or phrases, but you are required to use compelling, interesting, powerful, and trendy terms to draw readers in.

4. Balance Between Specific & General

Ensure that your main sentence strikes a good balance between the specific/narrow and the general/broad. Don’t write the topic sentence around too broad or vague an idea that is impossible to cover in a single paragraph.

 

Similarly, you shouldn’t write a too narrow statement that has nothing much to say in the supporting sentences.

Instead , you should maintain a good balance and write an idea that is neither too generic nor too specific. Below is an example of such a topic sentence;

✔️ “Incorporating technology into classroom learning can enhance student engagement and understanding without overwhelming traditional teaching methods.”

Pro Tip: Also, choose a particular writing style/tone of your paragraph in the sentence; Persuasive, Informative, Descriptive, Formal, etc . You should choose this according to the overall writing style of your content.

5. Write Concise and Clear

Another effective tip that can help you write a good topic sentence is to use concise and clear wording. You should write a sentence that is succinct and to the point. Also, it should convey the main idea clearly without any jargon, complexity, or unnecessary details.

All in all, you should aim for brevity and maintain a smooth flow in your paragraph.

For Examples:

Error-free and Innovative Way to Write a Topic Sentence

Following all the above tips are sufficient to help you write a good topic sentence. However, it may consume a lot of your time and effort, especially when you’re compiling them for long-form content with several paragraphs.

Also, there is a chance that you sometimes can’t come up with an accurate, relevant, and top-notch opening sentence. In this scenario, let me introduce an efficient, automatic, and perfectly precise way of sentence writing i.e., using AI sentence-generating tools. Here, we’ve come up with a handy solution: Editpad’s AI Sentence Generator .

It works on sophisticated AI, NLP, and Large Language models to promptly generate excellent sentences. You just need to provide the main idea or keyword, select the numbers, set the writing tone, and run the tool.

The AI Sentence Generator by Editpad will take no time to come up with well-structured and relevant sentences. You can “Copy” the suitable one from the output box, and use it as a topic sentence.

A Real-time Showcase:

We provided our main keyword; “Role of Mental Health”, and below are the sentences that we got from Editpad's AI sentence generator.

Output of Editpad AI Sentence Generator:

Demonstration:

Writing Sentences with Editpad AI Sentence Generator

Examples of Topic Sentences for Different Paragraphs

Let’s generate topic sentences for different types of paragraphs such as; persuasive, informative, Declarative, and others;

Example1: Persuasive Topic Sentence

We provided the below main idea of a persuasive paragraph into the sentence generator, selected the “Persuasive Tone”, and operated the tool .

“The Need for Comprehensive Health Education in Schools”

Results We Got:

Pictorial Demo of the Output:

Generating Sentences with Paragraphs

Example2: Informal Topic Sentence

“Now, let’s create the focus sentence for an informal paragraph, with the help of the AI sentence generator of Editpad.”

Here’s the Main Idea of the Paragraph;

“How Exercise Can Boost Your Mood”

Focus Sentence We Got:

Image Showing the Output:

Informal sentence generation

Example3: Academic Topic Sentence

In the third example, we gave the central idea of an academic paragraph, and ran the tool after selecting “Academic Tone”.

The Central Idea:

“The Impact of Climate Change on Agricultural Productivity”

Academic Focus Sentences:

Output Image:

Writing Academic Sentence

Example4: Topic Sentence for Professional Paragraph

For the last example, we’ll create a focus sentence for a professional paragraph. For this, we provided the below given main idea, chose the Professional Tone, and operated the tool. The Editpad’s sentence generator AI tool did real-time work and provided multiple results for the professional topic sentence.

The Key Idea:

“The Importance of Effective Leadership in Organizational Success”

Output by the Sentence Generator:

Image of the Output:

Writing Sentence for Professional Paragraph

A strong topic sentence is an important component for crafting well-structured paragraphs in any non-fiction writing. It introduces the main idea, sets the tone, and guides the reader. In this blog post, we comprehensively explained the manual and automatic way to write a good topic sentence. with tips and examples that will help you write. We discussed the tips and examples along the way, for your better understanding.

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paragraph essay topics

50 Persuasive Speech Topics for High School Students

September 9, 2024

paragraph essay topics

Throughout high school, students will be asked to write about topics and make compelling arguments for certain positions. These persuasive speeches and other writing assignments train a student's communication skills. Creating a compelling, persuasive speech is a powerful skill that will help students in all aspects of their careers, not just in writing courses. The ability to write persuasively will especially have a huge effect on your admissions results when writing your personal statements and essays for college. 

With a powerful speech, students can express their opinions, influence others, and develop critical communication skills for school and the workplace. Choosing the right topic for a speech is often as important as how well it's written. To help you find the right topics for your audience, here are 50 persuasive speech topics you can use to help you get started with your writing. 

Want an expert's opinion on your college applications? Book a free strategy call and begin your admissions journey today! 

What Makes a Good Persuasive Speech Topic?

Compelling persuasive speech topics are relatable, debatable, and relevant. Students should investigate a topic they're passionate about and will intrigue an audience. Don't just take an easy position everyone can agree with—audiences are interested in ideas they may have never heard before, expressed enthusiastically by a passionate speaker. 

When ideating a topic, find something with clear, opposing viewpoints. Research the available arguments and present your speech in a way that promotes a meaningful discussion. For example, topics regarding the use of social media, the right to freedom of speech, and the Supreme Court are general and can engage a wide audience. 

Topics that everyone agrees with, have no opposing viewpoints, and require no research will not make for interesting speeches. Choose a topic that will challenge you and your audience, but avoid being offensive or controversial for its own sake. A topic you're genuinely interested in—like renewable energy for engineering students or social media platforms for communications students will make writing a compelling speech much more natural. With additional research and effective writing techniques, you can craft a speech to captivate an audience. 

How to Choose the Right Persuasive Speech Topic for Your Audience

Choosing the right topic starts with knowing your target audience. While ideating, consider:

  • Who are you targeting? 
  • What do you want to convince them? 
  • What counter-arguments may they have? 

Think about those who would agree with you, be on the fence with you, and who would directly oppose your viewpoint. Writing persuasively is not just about presenting facts and hoping others agree. It's about making an emotional connection with your audience and using that impression to shift their thinking. 

Once you've given careful thought to those you'd be presenting to, brainstorm persuasive speech topic ideas that may resonate with them. Make a list of potential ideas and interrogate their merit. Consider current events, personal experiences, and issues others may relate to. Then, narrow down your list to the persuasive topics you would be most interested in—as an audience member and a researcher. 

Once you've landed on a few interesting topics, don't rest on them. Ask for feedback and get insights from family, friends, and teachers. Outside perspectives are important; others may have experiences that could provide you with valuable knowledge to use when refining your topic. 

50 Persuasive Speech Topic Ideas

School topics.

  • The Benefits and Drawbacks of Mandatory School Uniforms
  • How Effective is the School Grading System?
  • How Students can Shape their Curriculum
  • Is Homework Beneficial or Harmful?
  • How Would Schools Handle a Four-Day Week?

Art and Humanities Topics

  • Art or Vandalism: The History of Graffiti
  • Art vs STEM: What Should Schools Prioritize?
  • AI-Generated Media: How Do Humans Value Art?
  • The Correlation Between Art and Mental Health
  • Are Video Games the Ultimate Artform?

Social Issues Topics

  • The Right to Protest: Traditional Movements vs Digital Activism
  • Why do Wealthy Countries have Declining Birth Rates?
  • Should For-Profit Prisons be Permanently Abolished?
  • Is Healthcare a Human Right?

Environmental Issues

  • Why Corporations Need Stricter Plastics Regulation
  • Environmental Ethics: Human Development vs Species Preservation
  • The Benefits and Drawbacks of Fully Electric Vehicles
  • History of Geo-Engineering: Can Society Reverse Climate Change?
  • What is Dark Oxygen? The Effect of Deep Sea Mining

Technology and Media Topics

  • Should the Government Regulate the Coming AI revolution?
  • Where Does Online Misinformation Come From?
  • Why Does Social Media Affect Self-Image?
  • The Right to Privacy: How Online anonymity affects people's behavior
  • Why All Messaging Apps Should Have End-to-End Encryption
  • Should Artificial Intelligence be Used in Creative Works?
  • Should Social Media Platforms be Accountable for their Users?

Politics and Government

  • Should Voting be Compulsory?
  • How Public and Private Funding Affect Political Campaigns
  • What is gerrymandering? 
  • Why Do Some Countries Have Mandatory Military Service?
  • The benefits and drawbacks of term limits for elected officials

Sports Topics

  • Should esports be officially recognized as part of the Olympic Games?
  • MMA and Boxing: The Ethics of Broadcasting Violence
  • Has Football Become More Dangerous?
  • Should Men and Women compete in the same Leagues? 
  • Restrictor Plates: Why Did NASCAR Make Racing Slower?

Economy and Finance

  • Should Cryptocurrency be Regulated?
  • Does a minimum wage help or hurt the economy?
  • Employees vs contractors: How freelance work Affects commerce
  • Is Universal Basic Income a Viable Option?
  • When should the Government regulate the Market?

STEM Topics

  • What are the Benefits of Mars Colonization?
  • City Planning: How US Infrastructure Affects the Environment
  • Why Nuclear Energy is the Cleanest, Safest, and Cheapest Option
  • Why the US Hasn't Returned to the Moon Yet
  • Where will Technological Implants take Human Evolution?

Culture and Entertainment Industry Topics

  • How Binge-Culture Has Affected Our Attention Spans
  • How Streaming Services Caused the 2023 Writers Strike
  • Why are actors paid so highly? Hollywood's income inequality
  • Should IP Copyright be abolished? 

Enhance Your Academic Profile With InGenius Prep

Crafting a persuasive speech isn’t just about presenting facts—it’s about connecting with your audience, understanding their perspectives, and sparking meaningful conversations. These skills are especially important in the college admissions process, where every aspect of your college application is trying to convince an Admissions Officer you're worthy of acceptance. 

For more on college applications, InGenius Prep's counseling services are designed to guide high school students through every step of the admissions process. With a focus on story-telling, candidacy building, and highlighting the most impactful aspect of your student profile, we’ll help you capture the attention of your admissions officers. 

Ready to take the next step? Book a free strategy call with an advisor today to start your admissions journey.

Tags : English , candidacy-building , Writing , application counseling

Schedule a free consultation

to find out how we can help you get accepted.

40 Topics to Help With Descriptive Writing Assignments

A Helpful List for Writing Paragraphs, Essays, and Speeches

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

Descriptive writing calls for close attention to factual and sensory details: show, don't tell . Whether your subject is as small as a strawberry or as large as a fruit farm, you should begin by observing your subject closely. Examine it with all five senses, and write down any details and descriptions that come to mind.

Next, go a little further afield with your list and associate your chosen topic or object with memories, opinions, and impressions. This list may give you some ideas for metaphors and possibly even a direction for your paragraph or essay. Then make a list of verbs that could be associated with your topic or object. This will help you have more variety than just "buzzing be" verbs and keep the writing and imagery descriptive and active.

After your brainstorming phase, go through your list and decide which details and descriptions you like most and which are most significant. Don't cross off the others, though. At this point in the project, you want to be open to any direction your imagination and writing take you.

Good advice from Steven King in his book On Writing: A Memoir of the Craft :

If you want to be a successful writer, you must be able to describe [your subject], and in a way that will cause your reader to prickle with recognition. ... Thin description leaves the reader feeling bewildered and nearsighted. Overdescription buries him or her in details and images . The trick is to find a happy medium.

40 Paragraph Writing Topics

To get you started, here are 40 ideas for paragraph writing topics. These can work for a short paragraph, an essay, or even a speech. These simple suggestions should help you discover a subject that especially interests  you . If you don't start with a topic that you're willing to spend some time with, your writing will show your lack of enthusiasm. If 40 is not enough, try this list of more than 400 writing topics .

If you need some advice for the drafting phase, see " Composing Descriptive Paragraphs and Essays " and " How to Write a Descriptive Paragraph ."

  • A waiting room
  • A basketball, baseball glove, or tennis racket
  • A smartphone
  • A treasured belonging
  • A favorite restaurant
  • Your dream house
  • Your ideal roommate
  • Your memory of a place that you visited as a child
  • An accident scene
  • A city bus or subway train
  • An unusual room
  • A child's secret hiding place
  • A bowl of fruit
  • An item left too long in your refrigerator
  • Backstage during a play or concert
  • A vase of flowers
  • A restroom in a service station
  • A street that leads to your home or school
  • Your favorite food
  • The inside of a spaceship
  • The scene at a concert or athletic event
  • An art exhibit
  • An ideal apartment
  • Your old neighborhood
  • A small-town cemetery
  • A photograph
  • An emergency room
  • A particular friend or family member
  • A storefront window
  • An inspiring view
  • A work table
  • A character from a book, movie, or television program
  • A refrigerator or washing machine
  • A Halloween costume

King, Stephen. On Writing: A Memoir of the Craft . Scribner, 2000.

  • 50 Argumentative Essay Topics
  • How to Write a Descriptive Paragraph
  • Examples of Great Introductory Paragraphs
  • How to Write a Good Descriptive Paragraph
  • 100 Persuasive Essay Topics
  • Complete List of Transition Words
  • 5 Steps to Writing a Position Paper
  • List of Topics for How-to Essays
  • 50 Great Topics for a Process Analysis Essay
  • Words, Phrases, and Arguments to Use in Persuasive Writing
  • 501 Topic Suggestions for Writing Essays and Speeches
  • Practice in Supporting a Topic Sentence with Specific Details
  • Classification Paragraph, Essay, Speech, or Character Study: 50 Topics
  • Writing a Descriptive Essay
  • Structure of a Descriptive Essay
  • What Is Expository Writing?

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'we're alone,' but together, in edwidge danticat's remarkable essays.

With clear, concise prose that delves into harsh topics without losing its sense of humor, Danticat once again proves that she is one of...

paragraph essay topics

Reading Edwidge Danticat's We're Alone is like sitting down to listen to an old friend. Personal, touching, rich in observations, smart, resonant, vibrant and complex, the eight essays that make up this collection open a door into Danticat’s past and present, her history and the history of Haiti, her relationship to worldly things and to the work of timeless writers. With clear, concise prose that delves into harsh topics without losing its sense of humor, Danticat once again proves that she is one of contemporary literature's strongest, most graceful voices.

We're Alone opens with a preface in which Danticat explains that, for her, writing essays is a quest for a very specific "kind of aloneness/togetherness, as well as something akin to what the Haitian American anthropologist and artist Gina Athena Ulysse has labeled rasanblaj , which she defines as “assembly, compilation, enlisting, regrouping (of people, spirits, things, ideas)." That aloneness/togetherness is present in every essay. We all experience things differently, but the way Danticat talks about love, loss, migration, grief and injustice, to name a few, makes them feel patently universal.

This short collection has no throwaways, but some standouts merit individual attention.

"They Are Waiting in the Hills: Traveling with Lorraine Hansberry, Audre Lorde, James Baldwin, Gabriel García Márquez, Paule Marshall, and Toni Morrison" is, despite its long title, a wonderfully paced essay in which Danticat shares some of her own travels and experiences throughout her career while simultaneously entering into a conversation, full of admiration, with the authors named in the title. Danticat is an accomplished writer, but this essay is all about her love of literature and the way the work of others have impacted her and sometimes worked as a lens through which she could start processing various experiences.

In "This Is My Body," we're right there with the author two days before Christmas of 2017 as she ditches her car, runs away from a shooter at a mall and hides behind a bush. The shooting turned out to be one of many hoaxes perpetrated that year so people could steal from stores during the ensuing chaos, but for Danticat, recounting the experience is an excuse to get the conversation started. From there, the piece morphs into an essay about parenting, her own mother's death from cancer, and how she tried to parent even from beyond the grave by leaving Danticat and her brothers a tape with instructions for life, including what she wanted the author to wear at her funeral. From there, the essay moves — smoothly, always — into a discussion of hunger and, among other things, the ethics of force-feeding at Guantanamo and a recognition of how the "grace of the young Parkland survivors, their eloquence, their efforts to include less privileged youth — among them young people of color whose communities are chronically and disproportionately affected by gun violence — has been especially eye opening."

"By the Time You Read This" is another marvel that seamlessly weaves together past and present while exploring the death of George Floyd, recounting the racism Danticat observed while riding New York City Transit buses, and then touches on the massive migration of African Americans from rural areas in the South to cities in the North of the United States.

The rest of the essays share the same shapeshifting nature. However, they do so while also containing at least one of the cohesive elements that make the book feel like a whole; history, family, racism, Haiti, migration, literature, etc. Danticat masterfully moves from one topic or idea to the next with the powerful fluidity of a raging river. From every Haitian being suspected of having AIDS to memories of the "ruthless Duvalier dictatorship," every essay here contains at least a slice of history. From a discussion of temporary protected status for Haitians that turns into a conversation about rainbows to the many excerpts of poems and names that celebrate Black excellence throughout the collection — Toni Morrison, Alice Walker, Audre Lorde, Gwendolyn Brooks, Nikki Giovanni, Maya Angelou — this collection shows exactly where Danticat fits, and just how much her work is in conversation with that of other giants.

We're Alone accomplishes a lot, but perhaps the most important thing it does is that it manages to feel like an invitation from the opening pages. Yes, this is Danticat talking about racism and injustice while digging deep and showing us just how ugly humanity can be, but it's also a collection full of hope and a celebration of writing. Ultimately, this is more than a collection of essays; this is an invitation. "You're alone and I'm alone," says Danticat in one way or another in every essay, "but if you join me, we can be alone together." This beautiful invitation is one I encourage you to accept.

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‘We’re Alone,’ but Together, in Edwidge Danticat’s Remarkable Essays

Please try again

A book cover featuring a photo of a Black woman standing in a body of water looking at artwork hanging from a clothes rack.

Reading Edwidge Danticat’s We’re Alone is like sitting down to listen to an old friend. Personal, touching, rich in observations, smart, resonant, vibrant and complex, the eight essays that make up this collection open a door into Danticat’s past and present, her history and the history of Haiti, her relationship to worldly things and to the work of timeless writers. With clear, concise prose that delves into harsh topics without losing its sense of humor, Danticat once again proves that she is one of contemporary literature’s strongest, most graceful voices.

We’re Alone opens with a preface in which Danticat explains that, for her, writing essays is a quest for a very specific “kind of aloneness/togetherness, as well as something akin to what the Haitian American anthropologist and artist Gina Athena Ulysse has labeled rasanblaj , which she defines as “assembly, compilation, enlisting, regrouping (of people, spirits, things, ideas).” That aloneness/togetherness is present in every essay. We all experience things differently, but the way Danticat talks about love, loss, migration, grief and injustice, to name a few, makes them feel patently universal.

This short collection has no throwaways, but some standouts merit individual attention.

“They Are Waiting in the Hills: Traveling with Lorraine Hansberry, Audre Lorde, James Baldwin, Gabriel García Márquez, Paule Marshall, and Toni Morrison” is, despite its long title, a wonderfully paced essay in which Danticat shares some of her own travels and experiences throughout her career while simultaneously entering into a conversation, full of admiration, with the authors named in the title. Danticat is an accomplished writer, but this essay is all about her love of literature and the way the work of others have impacted her and sometimes worked as a lens through which she could start processing various experiences.

In “This Is My Body,” we’re right there with the author two days before Christmas of 2017 as she ditches her car, runs away from a shooter at a mall and hides behind a bush. The shooting turned out to be one of many hoaxes perpetrated that year so people could steal from stores during the ensuing chaos, but for Danticat, recounting the experience is an excuse to get the conversation started. From there, the piece morphs into an essay about parenting, her own mother’s death from cancer, and how she tried to parent even from beyond the grave by leaving Danticat and her brothers a tape with instructions for life, including what she wanted the author to wear at her funeral. From there, the essay moves — smoothly, always — into a discussion of hunger and, among other things, the ethics of force-feeding at Guantanamo and a recognition of how the “grace of the young Parkland survivors, their eloquence, their efforts to include less privileged youth — among them young people of color whose communities are chronically and disproportionately affected by gun violence — has been especially eye opening.”

“By the Time You Read This” is another marvel that seamlessly weaves together past and present while exploring the death of George Floyd, recounting the racism Danticat observed while riding New York City Transit buses, and then touches on the massive migration of African Americans from rural areas in the South to cities in the North of the United States.

The rest of the essays share the same shapeshifting nature. However, they do so while also containing at least one of the cohesive elements that make the book feel like a whole; history, family, racism, Haiti, migration, literature, etc. Danticat masterfully moves from one topic or idea to the next with the powerful fluidity of a raging river. From every Haitian being suspected of having AIDS to memories of the “ruthless Duvalier dictatorship,” every essay here contains at least a slice of history. From a discussion of temporary protected status for Haitians that turns into a conversation about rainbows to the many excerpts of poems and names that celebrate Black excellence throughout the collection — Toni Morrison, Alice Walker, Audre Lorde, Gwendolyn Brooks, Nikki Giovanni, Maya Angelou — this collection shows exactly where Danticat fits, and just how much her work is in conversation with that of other giants.

We’re Alone accomplishes a lot, but perhaps the most important thing it does is that it manages to feel like an invitation from the opening pages. Yes, this is Danticat talking about racism and injustice while digging deep and showing us just how ugly humanity can be, but it’s also a collection full of hope and a celebration of writing. Ultimately, this is more than a collection of essays; this is an invitation. “You’re alone and I’m alone,” says Danticat in one way or another in every essay, “but if you join me, we can be alone together.” This beautiful invitation is one I encourage you to accept.

‘We’re Alone’ by Edwidge Danticat is out now, via Graywolf Press.

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'we're alone,' but together, in edwidge danticat's remarkable essays.

Gabino Iglesias

We're Alone: Essays by Edwidge Danticat

Reading Edwidge Danticat's We're Alone is like sitting down to listen to an old friend. Personal, touching, rich in observations, smart, resonant, vibrant and complex, the eight essays that make up this collection open a door into Danticat’s past and present, her history and the history of Haiti, her relationship to worldly things and to the work of timeless writers. With clear, concise prose that delves into harsh topics without losing its sense of humor, Danticat once again proves that she is one of contemporary literature's strongest, most graceful voices.

We're Alone opens with a preface in which Danticat explains that, for her, writing essays is a quest for a very specific "kind of aloneness/togetherness, as well as something akin to what the Haitian American anthropologist and artist Gina Athena Ulysse has labeled rasanblaj , which she defines as “assembly, compilation, enlisting, regrouping (of people, spirits, things, ideas)." That aloneness/togetherness is present in every essay. We all experience things differently, but the way Danticat talks about love, loss, migration, grief and injustice, to name a few, makes them feel patently universal.

This short collection has no throwaways, but some standouts merit individual attention.

Edwidge Danticat: 'Whether Or Not We Belong Is Not Defined By Us'

Author Interviews

Edwidge danticat: 'whether or not we belong is not defined by us'.

"They Are Waiting in the Hills: Traveling with Lorraine Hansberry, Audre Lorde, James Baldwin, Gabriel García Márquez, Paule Marshall, and Toni Morrison" is, despite its long title, a wonderfully paced essay in which Danticat shares some of her own travels and experiences throughout her career while simultaneously entering into a conversation, full of admiration, with the authors named in the title. Danticat is an accomplished writer, but this essay is all about her love of literature and the way the work of others have impacted her and sometimes worked as a lens through which she could start processing various experiences.

Edwidge Danticat's new collection of essays says 'We're Alone'

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In "This Is My Body," we're right there with the author two days before Christmas of 2017 as she ditches her car, runs away from a shooter at a mall and hides behind a bush. The shooting turned out to be one of many hoaxes perpetrated that year so people could steal from stores during the ensuing chaos, but for Danticat, recounting the experience is an excuse to get the conversation started. From there, the piece morphs into an essay about parenting, her own mother's death from cancer, and how she tried to parent even from beyond the grave by leaving Danticat and her brothers a tape with instructions for life, including what she wanted the author to wear at her funeral. From there, the essay moves — smoothly, always — into a discussion of hunger and, among other things, the ethics of force-feeding at Guantanamo and a recognition of how the "grace of the young Parkland survivors, their eloquence, their efforts to include less privileged youth — among them young people of color whose communities are chronically and disproportionately affected by gun violence — has been especially eye opening."

"By the Time You Read This" is another marvel that seamlessly weaves together past and present while exploring the death of George Floyd, recounting the racism Danticat observed while riding New York City Transit buses, and then touches on the massive migration of African Americans from rural areas in the South to cities in the North of the United States.

The rest of the essays share the same shapeshifting nature. However, they do so while also containing at least one of the cohesive elements that make the book feel like a whole; history, family, racism, Haiti, migration, literature, etc. Danticat masterfully moves from one topic or idea to the next with the powerful fluidity of a raging river. From every Haitian being suspected of having AIDS to memories of the "ruthless Duvalier dictatorship," every essay here contains at least a slice of history. From a discussion of temporary protected status for Haitians that turns into a conversation about rainbows to the many excerpts of poems and names that celebrate Black excellence throughout the collection — Toni Morrison, Alice Walker, Audre Lorde, Gwendolyn Brooks, Nikki Giovanni, Maya Angelou — this collection shows exactly where Danticat fits, and just how much her work is in conversation with that of other giants.

We're Alone accomplishes a lot, but perhaps the most important thing it does is that it manages to feel like an invitation from the opening pages. Yes, this is Danticat talking about racism and injustice while digging deep and showing us just how ugly humanity can be, but it's also a collection full of hope and a celebration of writing. Ultimately, this is more than a collection of essays; this is an invitation. "You're alone and I'm alone," says Danticat in one way or another in every essay, "but if you join me, we can be alone together." This beautiful invitation is one I encourage you to accept.

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    The rest of the essays share the same shapeshifting nature. However, they do so while also containing at least one of the cohesive elements that make the book feel like a whole; history, family, racism, Haiti, migration, literature, etc. Danticat masterfully moves from one topic or idea to the next with the powerful fluidity of a raging river.

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    With clear, concise prose that delves into harsh topics without losing its sense of humor, Danticat once again proves that she is one of contemporary literature's strongest, most graceful voices.