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How to Write a Descriptive Essay | Example & Tips

Published on July 30, 2020 by Jack Caulfield . Revised on August 14, 2023.

A descriptive essay gives a vivid, detailed description of something—generally a place or object, but possibly something more abstract like an emotion. This type of essay , like the narrative essay , is more creative than most academic writing .

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Descriptive essay topics, tips for writing descriptively, descriptive essay example, other interesting articles, frequently asked questions about descriptive essays.

When you are assigned a descriptive essay, you’ll normally be given a specific prompt or choice of prompts. They will often ask you to describe something from your own experience.

• Describe a place you love to spend time in.
• Describe an object that has sentimental value for you.

You might also be asked to describe something outside your own experience, in which case you’ll have to use your imagination.

• Describe the experience of a soldier in the trenches of World War I.
• Describe what it might be like to live on another planet.

Sometimes you’ll be asked to describe something more abstract, like an emotion.

If you’re not given a specific prompt, try to think of something you feel confident describing in detail. Think of objects and places you know well, that provoke specific feelings or sensations, and that you can describe in an interesting way.

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The key to writing an effective descriptive essay is to find ways of bringing your subject to life for the reader. You’re not limited to providing a literal description as you would be in more formal essay types.

Make use of figurative language, sensory details, and strong word choices to create a memorable description.

Use figurative language

Figurative language consists of devices like metaphor and simile that use words in non-literal ways to create a memorable effect. This is essential in a descriptive essay; it’s what gives your writing its creative edge and makes your description unique.

Take the following description of a park.

This tells us something about the place, but it’s a bit too literal and not likely to be memorable.

If we want to make the description more likely to stick in the reader’s mind, we can use some figurative language.

Here we have used a simile to compare the park to a face and the trees to facial hair. This is memorable because it’s not what the reader expects; it makes them look at the park from a different angle.

You don’t have to fill every sentence with figurative language, but using these devices in an original way at various points throughout your essay will keep the reader engaged and convey your unique perspective on your subject.

Use your senses

Another key aspect of descriptive writing is the use of sensory details. This means referring not only to what something looks like, but also to smell, sound, touch, and taste.

Obviously not all senses will apply to every subject, but it’s always a good idea to explore what’s interesting about your subject beyond just what it looks like.

Even when your subject is more abstract, you might find a way to incorporate the senses more metaphorically, as in this descriptive essay about fear.

Choose the right words

Writing descriptively involves choosing your words carefully. The use of effective adjectives is important, but so is your choice of adverbs , verbs , and even nouns.

It’s easy to end up using clichéd phrases—“cold as ice,” “free as a bird”—but try to reflect further and make more precise, original word choices. Clichés provide conventional ways of describing things, but they don’t tell the reader anything about your unique perspective on what you’re describing.

Try looking over your sentences to find places where a different word would convey your impression more precisely or vividly. Using a thesaurus can help you find alternative word choices.

• My cat runs across the garden quickly and jumps onto the fence to watch it from above.
• My cat crosses the garden nimbly and leaps onto the fence to survey it from above.

However, exercise care in your choices; don’t just look for the most impressive-looking synonym you can find for every word. Overuse of a thesaurus can result in ridiculous sentences like this one:

• My feline perambulates the allotment proficiently and capers atop the palisade to regard it from aloft.

An example of a short descriptive essay, written in response to the prompt “Describe a place you love to spend time in,” is shown below.

Hover over different parts of the text to see how a descriptive essay works.

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

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

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

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

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The key difference is that a narrative essay is designed to tell a complete story, while a descriptive essay is meant to convey an intense description of a particular place, object, or concept.

Narrative and descriptive essays both allow you to write more personally and creatively than other kinds of essays , and similar writing skills can apply to both.

If you’re not given a specific prompt for your descriptive essay , think about places and objects you know well, that you can think of interesting ways to describe, or that have strong personal significance for you.

The best kind of object for a descriptive essay is one specific enough that you can describe its particular features in detail—don’t choose something too vague or general.

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Structure of a Descriptive Essay

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The descriptive essay can be arranged in one of many organization patterns , and you will soon find that one style is best for your particular topic.

Some effective organization patterns for a descriptive essay are spatial, which is best used when you are describing a location; chronological organization, which is best used when you are describing an event; and functional organization, which is best used when you are describing how a device or process works.

Start with a Mind Dump

Before you can begin writing your essay or deciding upon an organizational pattern, you should put everything you know about your subject on a piece of paper in a mind dump .

In this first stage of information gathering, you should not worry about organizing your information. To start out, simply write down every item, characteristic, or feature that you can think of, allowing your thoughts to flow onto the paper.

Note: A giant sticky note is a fun tool for mind dumping.

Once your paper is filled with bits of information, you can use a simple numbering system to begin identifying topics and subtopics. Simply look over your items and “clump” them together in logical groups. Your groups will become major topics that you address in body paragraphs.

Come Up with an Overall Impression

The next step is to read over your information to come up with one major impression that you get from it all. Ponder the information for a few moments and see if you can boil it all down to one thought. Sound difficult?

This list below shows three imaginary topics (in bold) followed by examples of a few thoughts that might be generated about each topic. You will see that the thoughts lead to an overall impression (in italics).

1. Your City Zoo - "The animals were arranged by continents. Each area featured interesting plants and flowers from the continents. There were beautiful murals painted everywhere." Impression: the visual elements make this a more interesting zoo.

Structure: Since a zoo is a place, the best structure for the city zoo essay is likely to be spatial. As a writer, you would begin with an introductory paragraph that ends with a thesis statement based on your impression. A sample thesis state would be "While the animals were fascinating, the visual elements made this zoo most interesting."

• You could write your essay as a walking tour, visiting (describing) one area at a time.
• Each area would be described in your body paragraphs.
• You would use descriptive language to convey the striking visual elements of each area.

2. A Birthday Party - "The birthday boy cried when we sang to him. He was too young to know what was happening. The cake was too sweet. The sun was hot." Impression: this party was a disaster!

Structure: Since this is an event in time, the best structure would likely be chronological.

• Your introductory paragraph would build up to the conclusion (your impression) that this party was not a success!
• Each disastrous event would be described in individual body paragraphs.

3. Making a Cake from Scratch - "I learned what sifting was, and it was messy. Creaming butter and sugar takes time. It’s hard to pick slippery egg shell bits out of flour." We really take box mixes for granted!

Structure: The best structure would be functional.

• You would build up to the (surprising) complexity of making a cake from scratch.
• Body paragraphs would address the difficulty you encountered at each turn.

End with a Conclusion

Every essay requires a good conclusion to tie things up and make a tidy and complete package. In your concluding paragraph for a descriptive essay, you should summarize your main points and explain your overall impression or thesis in new words.

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How to Write a Descriptive Essay

Working on a descriptive essay is like handing your reader a pair of magical glasses – it allows them to see, feel, and experience what you're describing. It's not just about listing facts – it's about immersing your reader in a sensory adventure. Fun fact: Studies show that our brains respond to vivid imagery as if we're actually experiencing the described scene. So, by painting a detailed picture with your words, you're not just telling a story – you're triggering a sensory response in your reader's brain, making the whole experience more memorable and engaging. It's like turning your essay into a mini-vacation for your reader's mind. In this article, students who haven’t delegated their tasks to essay writers yet will find a detailed explanation of descriptive writing with the definition, tips, and examples. Stay tuned!

What Is a Descriptive Essay

A descriptive essay is a form of writing that employs vivid language and sensory details to create a vivid picture or experience for the reader. Unlike other types of essays that may focus on analyzing, persuading, or narrating, the primary goal of this type of an essay is to paint a compelling and detailed picture in the reader's mind. It often involves the writer using descriptive words, metaphors, and other literary devices to convey a sensory experience, allowing the reader to visualize, feel, hear, smell, and taste what is being described. The purpose is to evoke a strong emotional response and engage the reader's imagination, making them feel like they are part of the depicted scene or moment.

In a descriptive essay, the writer carefully selects and organizes details to convey a specific impression or mood. The subject matter can range from a personal experience to observing a place, event, or object. The effectiveness lies in the writer's ability to create a vivid and immersive experience, enabling the reader to connect with the described subject on a deeper level. Ultimately, a well-executed descriptive essay leaves a lasting impression by bringing words to life and making the reader experience the depicted elements in a tangible and memorable way. You can also consult a reflection paper example for additional writing hints.

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Description vs. Descriptive Essay

Description and descriptive essays are related concepts, but they differ in scope and form. Description is a broader term that refers to the act of detailing the characteristics or features of something, someone, or a specific situation. It can be a component of various types of writing, not limited to essays. Description can be found in narratives, expository writing, and even technical or scientific writing, where clarity and precision in detailing are crucial. In essence, description is a tool used in writing to enhance understanding and create a vivid mental image.

On the other hand, a descriptive essay is a specific genre of writing that focuses entirely on painting a comprehensive and detailed picture using descriptive language. It is a more concentrated form of expression, where the writer's primary objective is to engage the reader's senses and emotions. Our custom writers suggest that a descriptive essay typically centers around a particular theme, experience, or subject, and it employs vivid imagery, figurative language, and sensory details to create a captivating narrative. Unlike a simple description, a descriptive essay has a more structured and narrative-oriented format, often with an introduction, body paragraphs, and a conclusion.

What to Describe in Your Essay

In a descriptive essay, you have the opportunity to portray a particular subject vividly, and the key is to engage the reader's senses and imagination. Here are some ideas on what you can describe:

• Scenic Locations. Transport your reader to a specific place – a serene beach, a bustling city street, a lush forest, or an ancient castle. Describe the sights, sounds, smells, and feelings associated with that location.
• Memorable Experiences. Share a personal experience that left a lasting impression on you. It could be a significant event, a life-changing moment, or even a routine activity that holds special meaning.
• People. Describe a person who has had a profound impact on your life or someone you find intriguing. Focus not only on their physical appearance but also on their personality, quirks, and the emotions they evoke.
• Objects. Choose a specific object, whether it's a cherished possession, a historical artifact, or something mundane yet interesting. Explore its significance and how it makes you feel.
• Seasons and Weather. Capture the essence of a particular season or weather condition. Whether it's the warmth of a summer day, the crispness of autumn, or the sound of raindrops on a window – make the reader feel the atmosphere.
• Animals or Pets. Bring to life a beloved pet or an encounter with a fascinating animal. Describe their appearance, behavior, and the emotions they evoke in you.
• Cultural Events. Attend a cultural event, festival, or celebration, and describe the vibrant colors, sounds, and traditions. Explore how these events make you feel and their cultural significance.
• Art and Creativity. Choose a piece of art, a sculpture, or a creative work that captivates you. Dive into the details, uncovering the emotions it evokes and its impact on your perception.

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Two Approaches to Writing a Descriptive Essay

There are generally two primary approaches to writing a descriptive essay, each emphasizing a different aspect of the subject. These approaches help shape the overall tone and purpose of the essay:

Objective Approach. In the objective approach, the writer strives to provide a detailed and accurate portrayal of the subject without injecting personal emotions or opinions. This method is often employed in academic and technical writing. The focus is on presenting an unbiased, factual description that allows readers to form their own opinions. For example, if describing a historical monument, the writer would focus on architectural details, historical context, and other observable features without interjecting personal feelings.

Subjective Approach. Conversely, the subjective approach encourages the writer to infuse personal experiences, emotions, and opinions into the description. This approach is often used in creative writing, personal narratives, or essays that aim to evoke specific emotions in the reader. When using a subjective approach, the writer might vividly describe how the subject makes them feel, drawing on personal memories and sensory experiences. For instance, if describing a favorite childhood place, the writer might delve into nostalgic emotions and memories associated with that location.

The choice between these approaches depends on the writer's goals and the intended impact on the reader. Some essays may even blend elements of both approaches, providing factual details while also conveying the writer's emotional connection to the subject. The key is to be intentional in choosing the approach that best serves the purpose of the descriptive essay. Or, you can buy cheap essay to avoid the trouble now and save valuable free time.

Descriptive Essay Topics

Choosing topics for descriptive essay can greatly benefit students by helping them improve their writing skills and unleash their creativity. These assignments allow students to dive deep into a subject and practice using colorful language, vivid descriptions, and creative imagery. By focusing on details, students learn to observe the world around them more closely and appreciate the nuances of their surroundings. 

Exploring various topics also allows students to expand their knowledge and understanding of different cultures, experiences, and environments, fostering empathy and a broader perspective. In essence, descriptive essay topics provide students with a valuable opportunity to develop their writing abilities while gaining a deeper appreciation for the power of language and observation.

• A day at the beach.
• My favorite childhood memory.
• The cozy corner of my room.
• A rainy day in the park.
• The bustling farmer's market.
• An unforgettable family gathering.
• The charming old bookstore.
• My pet's quirky habits.
• The perfect pizza slice.
• Sunrise over the city.
• A peaceful forest glade.
• The hectic school cafeteria.
• A quiet Sunday morning.
• Exploring a hidden trail.
• The enchanting winter wonderland.
• The lively street fair.
• Inside Grandma's kitchen.
• A colorful autumn day.
• My favorite room in the house.
• The first day of school.
• A historic landmark in my town.
• Sunset on the lakeshore.
• The adorable neighborhood coffee shop.
• A vibrant street art mural.
• My most comfortable outfit.
• The quaint village square.
• A walk through the botanical garden.
• The excitement of a carnival.
• A quirky antique shop.
• Sunday afternoon picnic.

If you need more ideas, consult our guide on narrative essay topics .

Descriptive Essay Outline

An outline for a descriptive essay serves as a roadmap for organizing and structuring the content of your essay to ensure a coherent and engaging narrative. Here's a simple breakdown of the typical components of a descriptive essay outline:

Descriptive Essay Introduction

• Hook. Begin with a captivating opening sentence to grab the reader's attention.
• Thesis Statement. Clearly state the main idea or purpose of your essay.

Body Paragraphs (usually three to four)

• Topic Sentence. Start each paragraph with a clear topic sentence that introduces the main point.
• Details and Descriptions. Elaborate on the topic sentence by providing vivid and specific details, using sensory language to engage the reader's senses.
• Transitions. Use smooth transitions between paragraphs to maintain the flow of the essay.
• Restate Thesis. Recap the main idea of the essay without introducing new information.
• Summarize Key Points. Briefly revisit the main details discussed in the body paragraphs.
• Closing Statement. End with a concluding thought that leaves a lasting impression or provokes further reflection.

Review and Revise

• Check for Consistency. Ensure that your descriptions are consistent and align with the overall theme.
• Grammar and Style. Review your essay for grammatical errors and refine your writing style.
• Peer Review. If possible, seek feedback from others to gain different perspectives on your essay.

Remember, this is a flexible descriptive essay writing framework, and the number of body paragraphs can vary based on the specific requirements of your assignment. The key to how to write a descriptive essay is to maintain a logical and organized structure that guides the reader through a rich and immersive experience of the subject you're describing.

Stages of Writing a Descriptive Essay

Writing a descriptive essay involves several stages, each crucial to the development of a vivid and engaging narrative. Here's an overview of the key stages:

• Choose a Topic. Select a subject that is meaningful, interesting, and conducive to detailed description.
• Brainstorming. Generate ideas related to the chosen topic, jotting down sensory details, emotions, and specific experiences associated with it.
• Thesis Statement. Develop a clear thesis statement that conveys the main purpose or impression you want to leave with your readers.
• Introduction. Craft an engaging introduction that hooks the reader and includes the thesis statement.
• Body Paragraphs. Develop each paragraph around a specific aspect of your topic, providing detailed descriptions and utilizing sensory language.
• Organization. Arrange your paragraphs logically, using a chronological, spatial, or thematic structure to guide the reader through the experience.
• Transition Sentences. Use transitional sentences to ensure a smooth flow between paragraphs and ideas.
• Content Review. Evaluate the effectiveness of your descriptions, ensuring they contribute to the overall theme and purpose of the essay.
• Clarity and Coherence. Check for clarity and coherence in your writing, ensuring that readers can follow your narrative easily.
• Sensory Language. Enhance the use of sensory language, making sure that your descriptions evoke vivid images and engage the reader's senses.
• Thesis Refinement. Fine-tune your thesis statement to reflect any adjustments made during the drafting process.

Editing and Proofreading

• Grammar and Punctuation. Review your essay for grammatical errors, punctuation issues, and proper sentence structure.
• Consistency. Check for consistency in tense, point of view, and overall writing style.
• Word Choice. Ensure that your vocabulary is precise and contributes to the richness of your descriptions.
• Final Check. Conduct a final proofread to catch any remaining errors, typos, or formatting issues.
• Peer Review. If possible, seek feedback from peers or instructors to gain additional perspectives on your essay.
• Structure. Ensure your essay has a clear structure with an introduction, body paragraphs, and a conclusion.
• Font and Font Size. Adhere to any specific formatting guidelines provided by your instructor, including font type and size.
• Margins and Spacing. Check and adjust margins and line spacing according to the formatting requirements.
• Title and Headings. If required, include a title and headings, making sure they are appropriately formatted.
• Citations. If using sources, ensure proper descriptive essay format according to the citation style (APA, MLA, etc.).

By following these stages, you can systematically develop and refine your essay, creating a compelling and immersive experience for your readers.

Descriptive Essay Examples

A descriptive essay example is like a practical guide for students, showing them how to write in a way that really grabs people's attention. They help students see how to use colorful language and organize their thoughts. By looking at the examples, students can understand how to make their writing more engaging and bring their ideas to life. They also inspire students to get creative and find their own unique style. Examples are like a roadmap, navigating students who google ‘ do my homework ’ through the writing world and making them more confident and expressive communicators.

Example 1: "A Tranquil Morning at Sunrise Cove"

This descriptive essay paints a vivid picture of the enchanting Sunrise Cove, capturing the serene and captivating atmosphere that unfolds during the early morning hours. From the magical transformation of the landscape bathed in the warm hues of dawn to the melodic symphony of nature's sounds, the cove emerges as a tranquil haven untouched by the hustle and bustle of modern life. Beyond its picturesque beauty, Sunrise Cove provides a space for introspection and reflection, inviting visitors to immerse themselves in the peaceful ambiance and find solace in the quietude of the moment. Ultimately, the essay celebrates the profound beauty and respite offered by this hidden sanctuary as the sun continues its journey across the sky, leaving the cove awash in warmth and tranquility.

Example 2: "The Enchanting Serenity of Moonlit Beaches"

This descriptive essay explores the enchanting beauty of moonlit beaches. It vividly depicts the scene of a beach illuminated by the soft glow of the moon, emphasizing the visual, auditory, and emotional elements that contribute to its allure. The essay is structured into three main paragraphs: the silvered canvas, the symphony of silence, and a tapestry of emotions. Each paragraph delves into a specific aspect of the moonlit beach experience, from the shimmering reflections on the sand and water to the peaceful silence that reigns during the night and, finally, the emotional resonance that the scene evokes. The overall theme highlights the transformative and serene nature of moonlit beaches, portraying them as a timeless sanctuary for introspection and contemplation.

Learning how to compose descriptive essays is a powerful tool that empowers students to express themselves vividly, sharpen their observational abilities, and communicate with precision. The ability to create a sensory-rich experience on paper not only enhances academic performance but also cultivates a lifelong skill set essential for effective communication in various aspects of life.

They encourage students to delve into their surroundings, tap into their creativity, and paint a detailed picture with words. The process of carefully selecting and arranging descriptive details not only refines their writing abilities but also hones their critical thinking skills. As students engage in this form of expression, they learn to appreciate the nuances of language, fostering a deeper connection to the written word. Need help with this assignment? Use our descriptive essay writing service right now!

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The Modes of Discourse—Exposition, Description, Narration, Argumentation (EDNA)—are common paper assignments you may encounter in your writing classes. Although these genres have been criticized by some composition scholars, the Purdue OWL recognizes the wide spread use of these approaches and students’ need to understand and produce them.

What is a descriptive essay?

The descriptive essay is a genre of essay that asks the student to describe something—object, person, place, experience, emotion, situation, etc. This genre encourages the student’s ability to create a written account of a particular experience. What is more, this genre allows for a great deal of artistic freedom (the goal of which is to paint an image that is vivid and moving in the mind of the reader).

One might benefit from keeping in mind this simple maxim: If the reader is unable to clearly form an impression of the thing that you are describing, try, try again!

Here are some guidelines for writing a descriptive essay.

• Take time to brainstorm

If your instructor asks you to describe your favorite food, make sure that you jot down some ideas before you begin describing it. For instance, if you choose pizza, you might start by writing down a few words: sauce, cheese, crust, pepperoni, sausage, spices, hot, melted, etc. Once you have written down some words, you can begin by compiling descriptive lists for each one.

• Use clear and concise language.

This means that words are chosen carefully, particularly for their relevancy in relation to that which you are intending to describe.

• Choose vivid language.

Why use horse when you can choose stallion ? Why not use tempestuous instead of violent ? Or why not miserly in place of cheap ? Such choices form a firmer image in the mind of the reader and often times offer nuanced meanings that serve better one’s purpose.

• Use your senses!

Remember, if you are describing something, you need to be appealing to the senses of the reader. Explain how the thing smelled, felt, sounded, tasted, or looked. Embellish the moment with senses.

• What were you thinking?!

If you can describe emotions or feelings related to your topic, you will connect with the reader on a deeper level. Many have felt crushing loss in their lives, or ecstatic joy, or mild complacency. Tap into this emotional reservoir in order to achieve your full descriptive potential.

• Leave the reader with a clear impression.

One of your goals is to evoke a strong sense of familiarity and appreciation in the reader. If your reader can walk away from the essay craving the very pizza you just described, you are on your way to writing effective descriptive essays.

• Be organized!

It is easy to fall into an incoherent rambling of emotions and senses when writing a descriptive essay. However, you must strive to present an organized and logical description if the reader is to come away from the essay with a cogent sense of what it is you are attempting to describe.

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• Writing Tips

How to Write a Descriptive Essay

4-minute read

• 26th February 2020

A descriptive essay, as the name may suggest, is an essay in which you describe something. The idea is to create a vivid picture of something – a person, object, place or experience – for your reader.

But how do you write a descriptive essay? We have a few helpful tips to share.

1. Brainstorming and Organizing Your Ideas

Your first step should be to brainstorm ideas . Think about the qualities of what you’re describing. As well as physical qualities, make notes about any thoughts, memories, and emotions you associate with your subject matter.

This brainstorming will give you the raw material for your descriptive essay. The next step is to create an essay outline. Typically, this will include:

• An Introduction – An outline of what you will describe and the “thesis” for your essay (i.e., a key theme that will run through your essay and guide your description). For instance, if writing about an inspirational teacher, you could mention the importance of education in the introduction.
• Main Body – A series of paragraphs in which you describe your subject. Each paragraph should cover a single main point, then lead neatly on to the next one, adding to the overall picture you’re creating for the reader.
• Conclusion – A final paragraph where you summarize your overall essay. This is also a good place to reaffirm your essay thesis, emphasizing how your description reflects this.

Before you start writing, then, make some notes about what each paragraph in your essay will include. This will then guide the drafting process, making sure your essay has a clear structure.

2. Use Vivid, Sensory Language

A descriptive essay should paint a picture for your reader. And this means you need to use vivid, exciting language rather than a formal, academic tone. Ideas for making your essay more linguistically engaging include:

• Using sensory language to evoke how something looked, smelled, etc.
• Writing in the present tense to make the situation feel immediate.
• Describing feelings and thoughts elicited by the subject of your essay.
• Looking for dynamic adjectives and adverbs to use (e.g., you could say something made you “happy,” but “elated” or “delighted” may be stronger).
• Using metaphors, similes, and other literary techniques .

Keep your introduction in mind while writing. The language you use should serve the “thesis” you set out there, drawing the reader’s attention to specific aspects of the thing you’re describing.

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3. Show, Don’t Tell

“Show, don’t tell” refers to a technique used by authors to make their writing more engaging. Essentially, all this means is using action, description, and dialogue to paint a picture for the reader rather than simply stating something in plain language. We can see the difference below:

Telling: Miss Hardy was an engaging speaker.

Showing: When Miss Hardy spoke, everyone listened. Her voice bubbled with enthusiasm, bringing even the most mundane subjects to life.

In the first sentence, we simply tell the reader that Miss Hardy was an engaging speaker. But in the second, we try to help the reader picture being in her class, listening to her speak. And by engaging the reader’s imagination like this, we can make our description more memorable.

4. Editing and Proofreading Your Descriptive Essay

Once you have a first draft, you’ll be ready to start editing. The idea here is to go back over your essay – at least once, but possibly multiple times – to look for ways you could improve it. This drafting process may involve:

• Making sure your writing is clear, well structured, and impactful.
• Rewriting passages that feel clichéd or that could be stronger.
• Reading your essay out loud to see how well it flows.
• Ensuring that the central theme of your essay is present throughout.

And when you’ve finished redrafting, go through the essay one more time to remove any typos that remain. Alternatively, you can submit your descriptive essay for proofreading . With the expert eye of a professional editor on your side, you can be confident your writing is the best it can be.

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Posted: 29 May, 2017

Descriptive Essay: How-To, Structure, Examples, Topics

A descriptive essay can seem boring at first glance, but they're the essays that you can really be creative with. Here's how to plan and write an essay that will get you top marks.

Table Of Contents

What is Descriptive Essay?

Descriptive essay structure, how to write descriptive essay, descriptive essay topics, descriptive essay examples.

A descriptive essay is an essay where you describe a topic in detail. It could be an event, a person, or an idea. Your task is to bring in all the senses to describe it, in order to paint as vivid a picture as possible.

Descriptive essays can vary, depending on what you're describing. This essay structure can help you describe most things, though, thoroughly and easily.

• Introduction: Introduce the topic you're describing, and give a quick over view of what it is.
• Thesis statement: This is where you'll outline your description of the topic. You'll go into more detail in the main body.
• Main body: This can be taken by three separate paragraphs. The first paragraph can focus on a detailed description of the topic itself. The second will cover the environment surrounding the topic. Finally, the third topic will focus on a sensual and emotive description, which covers how the topic affects those interacting with it.
• Conclusion: This will draw all your points together, without introducing anything new.
• First, look into the topic you've been given. At first, it may seem quite dry, but you can broaden the idea with some creative writing.
• Gather any evidence you plan to use. Descriptive essays don't require as much research as others, but you'll still need to back up your points.
• Write an outline, using the example above. Write in bullet points, and lay out what you're going to say.
• Write your essay . You can fill in the blanks on your outline, and you'll find that it's much easier to write using this method.
• Proofread and edit. Before you hand it in, give your essay a read through for any errors you've made.

A descriptive essay can be used to describe almost anything. It could be very personal, or a more abstract idea. For example, you could be asked to write about the most embarrassing moment of your life, or the idea of travel. It's up to you to make the topic engaging for the reader.

If you want some practice, here are some topics you can try writing about:

• Describe what it's like living in another country.
• Describe the idea of freedom.
• Describe a normal day at your school.

These ideas will help you see how a descriptive essay is put together. Try being creative with them, and really delve into what these ideas could mean for the reader.

With this information, you can now write an excellent descriptive essay. With a little practice, you'll really get into what a topic is about, and how it's relevant to your reader. Have a practice and improve your writing skills.

How to Write a Descriptive Essay

This could be something as simple as your favorite flavor of ice cream or as complicated as the politics of 13th century Vienna. Different than a simple description, a descriptive essay allows the writer to really show off both their imagination as well as their writing skills.

What is a Descriptive Essay?

A descriptive essay is a type of academic writing that asks the writer to fully describe a place, person, situation, event, or thing. They can be simple or they can be very complex depending on the subject matter and audience written for. These types of essays train a writer’s ability to express themselves accurately as well as build compelling sentences and arguments.

Descriptive Essay Ideas

There is no exhaustive list of things that can be described, but these are some of the most common things you may be asked to write about. 

A Location - The goal of writing about a place is to make the reader feel as if they are there. Words, similes, and metaphors that ignite the reader’s imagination are essential. Try and immerse the reader in the sights, smells, and sounds of the place you are describing. Examples could be a city, a view, a particular building like your house, etc. 

A Time Period - Similar to writing about a location, the goal is to make the reader lose themselves in the time you are describing. This requires great research to be able to describe physical characteristics as authentically and as well as possible. This could include how you felt a year ago, an ancient time period, or the future.

An Event - The goal of describing an event is to explain a series of interesting circumstances. Typical storytelling elements like describing the plot, setting, and characters are useful, but make sure you focus on the chain of events.

An Emotion - The goal of describing an emotion is to make the reader feel the sentiments of the character you are describing. Metaphors and similes are very useful when trying to evoke an emotion in a reader along with physical descriptions that express the emotion. 

A Person - The goal of writing about a person is to make the reader understand something about that person. This includes physical descriptions of what they look like, what kind of clothing they wear, a sense of the physical presence along with their profession,  as well as how they behave. 

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Descriptive Essay Outline and Structure

Though a descriptive type of essay is quite different from a typical academic paper, it still follows a classic 5 paragraph format. Always follow any directions though, sometimes you may need more or fewer body paragraphs. This is a general structure you should keep in mind for this type of essay.

Introduction

• Introduction/background information

Body Paragraphs

• Topic Sentence
• Sensory Information
• Physical Descriptions
• Transition Sentence
• Summary of the main points
• Restate the thesis

An outline is always a good idea for any kind of writing, but it is particularly useful for this type of essay because it collects your thoughts and makes sure your essay stays on track. 

Introduction 

• Hook - The sting of salty water, the hypnotic crash of the waves, the breathtaking sunsets, the best vacation spot?
• Background information - Everyone is different and everyone likes different types of things. When it comes to vacations though, there is a place that almost everyone enjoys.
• Thesis - In my opinion, the beach is the best possible vacation spot because of the variety of ways one can enjoy it. 

Body Paragraph 1 

• Topic Sentence - The beach has many kinds of natural beauty
• Sensory information - The unlimited expanse of the ocean combined with glorious sunrises and sunsets.
• Physical descriptions -The crunch of sand below your bare feet and the crash of waves on your body.
• Transition sentence - There’s more than just natural beauty though, there are physical activities to enjoy as well 

Body Paragraph 2

• Topic Sentence - The beach has unlimited activities for physical enjoyment.
• Sensory information - The thrill of battling with the ocean, the joy of falling on the sand, the wind streaming through your hair, and the pleasant tingling of the sun on bare skin.
• Physical descriptions - Water sports like surfing, jet skiing, and the like allow you to exercise in one of the most fun ways possible. Not to mention sports like frisbee, volleyball, beach soccer, and more.
• Transition sentence - If you just want to relax, the beach is perfect for that too!

Body Paragraph 3

• Topic Sentence - The beach is ideal just to relax, destress, and take it easy. 
• Sensory information - To relax as you are massaged by either human hands or the sun is a pleasure. Lazing around might be frowned upon, but the beach is the ideal place to spend some time taking care of yourself and letting the stresses of the world melt away.
• Physical description - Whether it’s reading a book, or enjoying a refreshing beverage with umbrellas in it, you can get taken care of on the beach. Building sandcastles, painting, and meditating are other activities easily and freely enjoyed. 
• Transition sentence - The beach has so much to offer.
• Summary of the main points - Whether it’s nature, physical exercise, or simple relaxation, the beach can offer all of that and more. 
• Restate the thesis - That’s the main reason that a beach is the ideal vacation spot, it allows for diverse ways of having fun. 
• Closing statement/Clincher - Think about the last time you went to the beach, don’t you want to go again?

What is the Purpose of a Descriptive Essay?

It should leave the reader with a clear idea of the topic of the essay. The goal is to explain things in a comprehensive and interesting way so that the information stays with the reader. Let’s go into the details of how to accomplish this. 

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Writing Process & Descriptive Essay Examples

It may seem challenging to write a successful essay of this type, but if you follow the advice below, it will be a breeze. 

How to Start a Descriptive Essay

Making sure you choose the right topic is the first hurdle to cross. A topic for a descriptive essay is vital because it is the main subject you will be writing about. Spend at least 20 minutes brainstorming different topic ideas and make sure you choose a topic that you know well.

Next, create an outline to better structure your thoughts and figure out the pieces of information you need to find out more about. The more time you spend creating a well-researched outline, the better your endpaper is going to be, and you’ll end up spending less time on actually writing the paper. Now you can move on the writing the descriptive essay introduction.

How to Write a Descriptive Essay Thesis

A thesis statement is the main argument you are trying to make in your paper. It is the main point you are trying to describe. A good thesis statement for descriptive essay is particular without being too brief. It should include not only just what the topic is, but also mention why the topic is important.

How to Write Body Paragraphs

You can have as many body paragraphs as you think are necessary to achieve the goal of describing something clearly. This means you could have just one body paragraph, the standard three, or more. 

Start every paragraph with a topic sentence that explains what the main purpose of the paragraph is. Next fill in sensory details, describing the emotions before moving on to describing the actual physical details. End each body paragraph with a transition sentence that helps each paragraph flow into the other. Not only does this make your writing stronger, but it also helps you create an immersive experience.

How to Write the Conclusion 

Summarize the main points of your essay and make sure that you reiterate the thesis statement. This reminds people of the point of your essay and ensures that when writing, you don’t stray too far from the point. 

Descriptive Essay Format 

There are 3 main formats of citation types for essays. Though the most common one is MLA, it is possible that you may have to use APA or Chicago Style citations. 

MLA stands for Modern Language Association and is used primarily for the arts and humanities.  MLA uses in-text parenthetical citation in the format of (Author, Page). The page at the end that contains all the sources is called the Works Cited page. The format of these entries is unique to MLA but is easy to make with a citation generator. 

APA stands for American Psychological Association and is used mostly for the sciences and social sciences. APA uses in-text parenthetical citations in the format (Author, Date). The page at the end that contains all the sources is called the References section

Chicago Style is used primarily for Business, History, and the Fine Arts. In-text citation can be either as footnotes or parenthetical citation in the format (Author, Date). The page at the end that contains all the sources is called the Bibliography. 

Most descriptive essays will follow the MLA style of citation, but if you need any more help, find a guide on Studyfy.com for more information about citation styles in general. 

Descriptive Essay Topics

The topic is crucial, because all the research you do, and the entire paper, will specifically be about describing the topic. Here are some descriptive essay prompts to inspire you!

The person you’ve most admired in your life

A movie scene that made you feel strong emotions

The time period you would travel to if you had a time machine

Why a beach is better than the mountains for a vacation (or vice versa)

The taste of a drink when you are incredibly tired

An author that inspired you 

Your favorite cuisine

The best place in the world to be by yourself

The best Christmas morning you’ve ever had

An accent that you really enjoy 

A time when you wanted something so much it burned

Describe the day in the life of your favorite celebrity 

The joy of escaping into a video game

What dancing means to you 

A life philosophy you believe in 

The feeling of holding a baby in our arms

The sound of crashing waves

Standing in front of a gorgeous view

A vacation that was meaningful 

Why fireworks are magical 

The first time you cosplayed 

How it feels to listen to music that you hate 

The best thing you have ever eaten in your life

What would it be like to live 100 years in the future

Why hearing people laugh is beautiful 

A day in the life of your favorite animal 

A strange superstition you believe in

The strangest person you’ve ever met

Your favorite tv show 

Playing your favorite sport 

What it’s like to be in love

Descriptive Essay Tips

Before we end, let’s go over some of the key points of information in this article.

• Use figurative language including metaphors and similes 
• Use your senses
• Choose appropriate words
• Show don't tell 
• Focus on specific details
• Spend time choosing the right topic
• Create a detailed outline
• Forget about the purpose of the essay
• Submit your first draft
• Make it too complicated
• Ignore your audience 
• Ignore any directions

In addition to the information provided in this article, there are various resources available to help with your writing needs. If you are struggling to write your descriptive essay, you can turn to professional writers and editors for assistance. You may consider hiring a research paper writing service or seeking help from dissertation writers .

Additionally, if you need someone to " write my admission essay ", there are various options available. You can hire a writer for a custom writing service or seek help from online tutors and teachers. Furthermore, if you need to write a strong admission essay, there are services available that specialize in providing guidance and assistance with this type of writing.

It is important to note that before submitting any work, it should be proofread and edited thoroughly to ensure its quality. Studyfy offers a range of services to help with this, including professional proofreaders and editors who can check your work for grammatical errors and ensure that it meets academic standards.

In summary, there are various resources available to help with your writing needs, including professional writing services, proofreaders, and editors. By utilizing these resources and following the guidelines outlined in this article, you can write a successful descriptive essay that effectively conveys your ideas and engages your readers.If you are looking for the query " I need someone to write an essay for me ", Studyfy has got you covered

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What is a Descriptive Essay? How to Write It (with Examples)

A descriptive essay is a type of creative writing that uses specific language to depict a person, object, experience, or event. The idea is to use illustrative language to show readers what the writer wants to convey – it could be as simple as a peaceful view from the top of a hill or as horrific as living in a war zone. By using descriptive language, authors can evoke a mental image in the readers’ minds, engaging readers and leaving a lasting impression, instead of just providing a play-by-play narrative.

Note that a description and descriptive essay are not the same thing. A descriptive essay typically consists of five or more well-written paragraphs with vivid imagery that can help readers visualize the content, as opposed to a description, which is typically one or more plain paragraphs with no particular structure or appeal. If you are still unsure about how to write a compelling descriptive essay, continue reading!

Table of Contents

What is a descriptive essay, types of descriptive essay topics.

• Characteristics of descriptive essays

How to write a descriptive essay using a structured outline

Frequently asked questions.

A simple descriptive essay definition is that it is a piece of writing that gives a thorough and vivid description of an object, person, experience, or situation. It is sometimes focused more on the emotional aspect of the topic rather than the specifics. The author’s intention when writing a descriptive essay is to help readers visualize the subject at hand. Generally, students are asked to write a descriptive essay to test their ability to recreate a rich experience with artistic flair. Here are a few key points to consider when you begin writing these.

• Look for a fascinating subject

You might be assigned a topic for your descriptive essay, but if not, you must think of a subject that interests you and about which you know enough facts. It might be about an emotion, place, event, or situation that you might have experienced.

• Acquire specific details about the topic

The next task is to collect relevant information about the topic of your choice. You should focus on including details that make the descriptive essay stand out and have a long-lasting impression on the readers. To put it simply, your aim is to make the reader feel as though they were a part of the experience in the first place, rather than merely describing the subject.

• Be playful with your writing

To make the descriptive essay memorable, use figurative writing and imagery to lay emphasis on the specific aspect of the topic. The goal is to make sure that the reader experiences the content visually, so it must be captivating and colorful. Generally speaking, “don’t tell, show”! This can be accomplished by choosing phrases that evoke strong emotions and engage a variety of senses. Making use of metaphors and similes will enable you to compare different things. We will learn about them in the upcoming sections.

• Capture all the different senses

Unlike other academic articles, descriptive essay writing uses sensory elements in addition to the main idea. In this type of essay writing, the topic is described by using sensory details such as smell, taste, feel, and touch. Example “ Mahira feels most at home when the lavender scent fills her senses as she lays on her bed after a long, tiring day at work . As the candle melts , so do her worries” . It is crucial to provide sensory details to make the character more nuanced and build intrigue to keep the reader hooked. Metaphors can also be employed to explain abstract concepts; for instance, “ A small act of kindness creates ripples that transcend oceans .” Here the writer used a metaphor to convey the emotion that even the smallest act of kindness can have a larger impact.

• Maintain harmony between flavor and flow

The descriptive essay format is one that can be customized according to the topic. However, like other types of essays, it must have an introduction, body paragraphs, and a conclusion. The number of body paragraphs can vary depending on the topic and available information.

It is crucial to remember that a descriptive essay should have a specific topic and goal, such as sharing personal experiences or expressing emotions like the satisfaction of a good meal. This is accomplished by employing exact language, imagery, and figurative language to illustrate concrete features. These language devices allow the writer to craft a descriptive essay that effectively transmits a particular mood, feeling, or incident to readers while also conjuring up strong mental imagery. A descriptive essay may be creative, or it may be based on the author’s own experiences. Below is a description of a few descriptive essay examples that fit into these categories.

• Personal descriptive essay example

A personal essay can look like a descriptive account of your favorite activity, a place in your neighborhood, or an object that you value. Example: “ As I step out of the front door, the crisp morning air greets me with a gentle embrace; the big chestnut tree in front, sways in the wind as if saying hello to me. The world unfolds in a symphony of awakening colors, promising a day filled with untold possibilities that make me feel alive and grateful to be born again”.

• Imaginative descriptive essay example

You may occasionally be required to write descriptive essays based on your imagination or on subjects unrelated to your own experiences. The prompts for these kinds of creative essays could be to describe the experience of someone going through heartbreak or to write about a day in the life of a barista. Imaginative descriptive essays also allow you to describe different emotions. Example, the feelings a parent experiences on holding their child for the first time.

Characteristics of descriptive essay s

The aim of a descriptive essay is to provide a detailed and vivid description of a person, place, object, event, or experience. The main goal is to create a sensory experience for the reader. Through a descriptive essay, the reader may be able to experience foods, locations, activities, or feelings that they might not otherwise be able to. Additionally, it gives the writer a way to relate to the readers by sharing a personal story. The following is a list of the essential elements of a descriptive essay:

• Sensory details
• Clear, succinct language
• Organized structure
• Thesis statement
• Appeal to emotion

How to write a descriptive essay, with examples

Writing an engaging descriptive essay is all about bringing the subject matter to life for the reader so they can experience it with their senses—smells, tastes, and textures. The upside of writing a descriptive essay is you don’t have to stick to the confinements of formal essay writing, rather you are free to use a figurative language, with sensory details, and clever word choices that can breathe life to your descriptive essay. Let’s take a closer look at how you can use these components to develop a descriptive essay that will stand out, using examples.

• Figurative language

Have you ever heard the expression “shooting for the stars”? It refers to pushing someone to strive higher or establish lofty goals, but it does not actually mean shooting for the stars. This is an example of using figurative language for conveying strong motivational emotions. In a descriptive essay, figurative language is employed to grab attention and emphasize points by creatively drawing comparisons and exaggerations. But why should descriptive essays use metaphorical language? One it adds to the topic’s interest and humor; two, it facilitates the reader’s increased connection to the subject.

These are the five most often used figurative language techniques: personification, metaphor, simile, hyperbole, and allusion.

• Simile: A simile is a figure of speech that is used to compare two things while emphasizing and enhancing the description using terms such as “like or as.”

Example: Life is like riding a bicycle. To keep your balance, you must keep moving – Albert Einstein

• Metaphor: A metaphor are also used to draw similarities, but without using direct or literal comparisons like done in similes.   

Example: Books are the mirrors of the soul – Virginia Woolf, Between the acts

• Personification: This is the process of giving nonhuman or abstract objects human traits. Any human quality, including an emotional component, a physical attribute, or an action, can be personified.

Example: Science knows no country, because knowledge belongs to humanity, and is the torch which illuminates the world – Louis Pasteur

• Hyperbole: This is an extreme form of exaggeration, frequently impractical, and usually employed to emphasize a point or idea. It gives the character more nuance and complexity.

Example: The force will be with you, always – Star Wars

• Allusion: This is when you reference a person, work, or event without specifically mentioning them; this leaves room for the reader’s creativity.  

Example: In the text below, Robert Frost uses the biblical Garden of Eden as an example to highlight the idea that nothing, not even paradise, endures forever.

Then leaf subsides to leaf.

So Eden sank to grief,

So dawn goes down to day.

Nothing gold can stay

– Nothing Gold Can Stay by Robert Frost (1923)

Descriptive essays need a combination of figurative language and strong sensory details to make the essay more memorable. This is when authors describe the subject matter employing senses like smell, sound, touch, and taste so that the reader can relate to it better.

Example of a sensory-based descriptive essay: The earthy fragrance of freshly roasted chestnuts and the sight of bright pink, red, orange fallen leaves on the street reminded her that winter was around the corner.

• Word choice

Word choice is everything in a descriptive essay. For the description to be enchanting, it is essential to utilize the right adjectives and to carefully consider the verbs, nouns, and adverbs. Use unusual terms and phrases that offer a new viewpoint on your topic matter instead of overusing clichés like “fast as the wind” or “lost track of time,” which can make your descriptive essay seem uninteresting and unoriginal.

See the following examples:

Bad word choice: I was so happy because the sunset was really cool.

Good word choice: I experienced immense joy as the sunset captivated me with its remarkable colors and breathtaking beauty.

• Descriptive essay format and outline

Descriptive essay writing does not have to be disorganized, it is advisable to use a structured format to organize your thoughts and ensure coherent flow in your writing. Here is a list of components that should be a part of your descriptive essay outline:

• Introduction
• Opening/hook sentence
• Topic sentence
• Body paragraphs
• Concrete details
• Clincher statement

Introduction:

• Hook: An opening statement that captures attention while introducing the subject.
• Background: Includes a brief overview of the topic the descriptive essay is based on.
• Thesis statement: Clearly states the main point or purpose of the descriptive essay.

Body paragraphs: Each paragraph should have

• Topic sentence: Introduce the first aspect or feature you will describe. It informs the reader about what is coming next.
• Sensory details: Use emphatic language to appeal to the reader’s senses (sight, sound, touch, taste, and smell).
• Concrete details: These are actual details needed to understand the context of the descriptive essay.
• Supporting details: Include relevant information or examples to improve the description.

Conclusion:

• Summarize key points: Here you revisit the main features or aspects of the subject.
• Restate thesis statement: Reinforce the central impression or emotion.
• Clincher statement: Conclude with a statement that summarizes the entire essay and serve as the last words with a powerful message.

Revision and editing:

• Go over your essay to make sure it is coherent, clear, and consistent.
• Check for logical paragraph transitions by proofreading the content.
• Examine text to ensure correct grammar, punctuation, and style.
• Use the thesaurus or AI paraphrasing tools to find the right words.

A descriptive essay often consists of three body paragraphs or more, an introduction that concludes with a thesis statement, and a conclusion that summarizes the subject and leaves a lasting impression on readers.

A descriptive essay’s primary goal is to captivate the reader by writing a thorough and vivid explanation of the subject matter, while appealing to their various senses. A list of additional goals is as follows: – Spark feeling and imagination – Create a vivid experience – Paint a mental picture – Pique curiosity – Convey a mood or atmosphere – Highlight specific details

Although they both fall within the creative writing category, narrative essays and descriptive essays have different storytelling focuses. While the main goal of a narrative essay is to tell a story based on a real-life experience or a made-up event, the main goal of a descriptive essay is to vividly describe a person, location, event, or emotion.

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7.3: The Structure of a Description Essay

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• Amber Kinonen, Jennifer McCann, Todd McCann, & Erica Mead
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Description essays typically describe a person, a place, or an object using sensory details. The structure of a descriptive essay is more flexible than in some of the other rhetorical modes. The introduction of a description essay should set up the tone and point of the essay. The thesis should convey the writer’s overall impression of the person, place, or object described in the body paragraphs.

The organization of the essay may best follow spatial order, an arrangement of ideas according to physical characteristics or appearance. Depending on what the writer describes, the organization could move from top to bottom, left to right, near to far, warm to cold, frightening to inviting, and so on.

For example, if the subject were a client’s kitchen in the midst of renovation, you might start at one side of the room and move slowly across to the other end, describing appliances, cabinetry, and so on. Or you might choose to start with older remnants of the kitchen and progress to the new installations. Maybe start with the floor and move up toward the ceiling.

Descriptive Essay

Descriptive Essay Writing

Last updated on: Feb 9, 2023

How To Write An Impactful Descriptive Essay?

By: Cathy A.

12 min read

Reviewed By: Melisa C.

Published on: Dec 17, 2019

Wondering how to write an impressive descriptive essay? Writing a descriptive essay is both fun and challenging. You need to describe the main topic in detail and by engaging the five senses of the readers.

Students usually get this type of essay in high school and college. Writing a descriptive essay is different from other essays.

You need to focus on describing a certain person, place, or event.

Luckily for you, the following blog post will provide some helpful tips on how to create an engaging essay.

Continue reading to learn how to write an A-worthy descriptive essay.

On this Page

What is a Descriptive Essay?

A descriptive essay is a detailed paper that describes a place, person, situation, object, or emotion. Different people have different points of view and your job is to explain yours in detail.

You may be asked to write a descriptive essay about the beach or forest or about a person or situation. The purpose of this essay is to test the writer’s ability in expressing and explaining their experiences.

Descriptive writing should create a picture in the reader’s mind. You may be required to write a descriptive essay as a high school or college essay assignment.

For a compelling essay, using adjectives and adverbs, details, and figurative language is fundamental. Without proper usage of words, you will not be able to invoke the readers' emotions.

What is the Purpose of a Descriptive Essay?

The purpose of a descriptive essay is to describe a person, place, or personal experience in vivid detail so that the reader can create a picture in his mind.

The descriptive essay is written to get the reader to understand by using descriptive language. It is different from narrative essays, where the writer tells the story about someone else. Usually, it starts with a real-life event and then the content follows the author's imagination.

Descriptive essays are not intended to persuade the reader or show facts and figures to prove something. Descriptive essays are like word paintings that contain personal and descriptive details and these are mostly assigned to students of creative writing.

How to Start a Descriptive Essay

A strong start for your descriptive essay is essential. Analyze your topic from every angle and document the following details:

Analyze the main subjects in detail and observe minute things.

• Start with observing all the possible aspects of the subject.
• Don't just observe the object but also its surroundings.
• Focus on details and features of the subject and develop opinions about them.
• Be thoughtful; this first step will be the basis for the essay.

Physical Settings

Describing the physical settings is a must in a descriptive essay. When describing, keep the following points in mind.

• Focus on the subject's position and observe nearby objects
• Note the time of day and kind of lighting: natural or imitated
• Physical settings: all the basic and decorative elements
• The position and shape of the objects
• Alignment and any other observable information

Physical Features

When describing the physical features of the subject, living or nonliving, consider the following points.

• Living or nonliving; describe the features in detail
• The subject's skin color, texture, smoothness, expression, and age
• The features of inanimate objects in the picture, color, surface, and texture

Create Drama

Storytelling and drama are the life and blood of a good descriptive essay. It turns your essay into an exciting and interesting piece of writing. However, be subtle about adding drama to your sentence structure and add it to complement your story only.

Focus On Your Feelings

Focus on how you feel about the particular topic or person and stick to it. It is easy to get involved when working on the essay. But, focus on your own feelings and write an essay based on them.

Use Of Specific Vocabulary

Vocabulary is important. Select the best words for describing an action or object. Don't always use the first word that comes to mind.

Write slowly and thoughtfully, and use specific words to convey your thoughts.

Psychological Aspects

Writing about a certain situation or behavior of a person focuses on the mental aspects and emotions involved in them.

For Example, describe your emotions when your friend misplaced your notes right before the exam.

You may have had several emotions in that incident. Maybe you were prepared for exams, but this situation put you under pressure and made you feel frustrated and hurt.

Explore those emotions and describe the feelings they aroused. Describe the body language also, if relevant.

Ask Yourself, WHY?

This is the most valuable tip for students. When you are looking at a particular subject, and having difficulty analyzing its aspects, ask yourself "WHY".

• Why is the subject the way it is?
• Why does the person you are describing have such a deep-set and cold eyes?
• Why is the animal so wounded and terrified?
• Why is this particular place famous?

It is a good practice and after some time you will do it naturally. Knowing the why is important if you want to describe your topic properly.

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How To Write A Descriptive Essay?

When you write a descriptive essay, you help your readers visualize an event, a person, or a story. It is written to make your readers feel what you feel about the respective subject.

A descriptive essay seeks to appeal to some or all of the audience’s five senses. Some key things to consider are:

• Discussing your subject thoroughly
• Focusing on details and adding them in your essay
• Sharing your personal feelings and experience about the subject
• Observing and describing all sensory details of your subject

Here are the steps to write a descriptive essay easily.

1- Choose an Engaging and Focused Essay Topic

An important step that all strong descriptive essays share is having a focused topic. Before you make the outline, identify the purpose of your essay and use it to create an appropriate thesis statement.This type of paper does not require much personal opinion from you. Its main goal should be focusing on information that will make a dominant impression in readers' minds instead.

2- Research and Gather Important Details

When writing a descriptive essay, it is important to make sure you include as many details and sensory information as possible. This helps your reader fully understand the images that are being presented in their mind's eye.You can organize these ideas into categories so they're easy for you to access when needed.

3- Create an Outline of Your Essay

Your essays must be organized by having subheadings that are clear and concise. Group your main points into individual body paragraphs, each of which should only cover one idea or topic at a time.

4- Write your Essay’s Introduction

A good introductory paragraph is much like a road map because it provides direction to your readers.

It provides relevant background information before diving into more specific details related to how something works or why something happens. These could include statistics or stories from real-life scenarios.

5- Write the Main Body Section of Your Essay

Each body paragraph should start with a topic sentence that keeps the reader hooked on what you are saying. Use specific details instead of making generalized statements, and make sure to give examples if necessary.

6- End with a Strong Conclusion

The conclusion of an essay is the final paragraph, and it should summarize all that you have said throughout. It's a good idea to restate the main points and key details from the essay in this section.

It is important so the reader has everything they need for better understanding before ending off on something new.

If necessary be sure not to introduce anything odd or unusual, to avoid any confusion.

7- Proofread and Revise the Essay Carefully

Once you are done writing the essay, proofread and revise it carefully. Make sure that it is free from all kinds of errors.

Descriptive Essay Outline

Like all the other essays, a descriptive essay also follows the usual 5-paragraph essay structure and format.Before starting, it is important to create an outline. Following are the fundamental elements of your descriptive essay outline:

Descriptive Essay Introduction

The introduction sets the footing for the entire essay. Before heading towards the body section, the reader will come across the introduction.

It is the first impression of your work. It is very important to write an engaging introduction so that the readers read the essay till the end.

Start the essay in an easy-to-understand way and language. Provide background information on your topic so they can understand it and its importance.

To make sure the reader feels your emotions and decides to continue reading further, incorporate the following points in your introduction.

The following tips will guide you on how to write a good introduction for a descriptive essay.

• Attract the reader's attention with an interesting fact, phrase, or quote
• Don't bombard them with information
• Go straight to the main pointsInclude enough information to introduce the topic and its significance.
• Summarize the argument and the main topic and craft your thesis statement

Descriptive Essay Thesis Statement

A thesis statement is an integral part of your essay. It focuses on the argument and the writer’s main idea, which is to be discussed in the essay.

This statement also provides the writer with a chance of explaining the purpose and scope of the topic. It is intriguing and engaging.

A thesis statement is written at the end of the introduction, it is mainly a single sentence that describes the essay objective. The thesis statement should act as a guide to the reader on what to expect in the essay body. It is like a table of contents of a book, to the reader on contents you will get an idea of what the book is all about so you get to understand it better.

It is like a table of contents of a book. By reading it, you will get an idea of what the book is all about.

A good thesis should contain the following things:

• Define the essay scope - it should narrow down all the points to clarify its purpose.
• Avoid using common words - you should be creative with your choice of words.
• Create suspense - it should attract the reader to the body paragraphs of the essay.

For further information on how to write a thesis for a descriptive essay, check out the following examples.

• Descriptive essay example about a Place

“Even though monarchy is long gone, Buckingham Palace is here to remind us of the aesthetic beauty of that era.”

• Descriptive essay example about a Person

“One of the characteristics of Spider-Man is his youthfulness, and the fact that he talks to himself more than Hamlet.”

• Descriptive essay example about an Emotion

“For numerous reasons, the dark forest is my greatest fear, though not a fear which is necessarily smart to face.”

Descriptive Essay Body Paragraphs

Body paragraphs of the essay come next after the introduction and thesis statement. It is the main part that continues your essay.

Usually, an essay consists of three body paragraphs but you can add more if needed.

Don't add more than one central idea in one paragraph. Fusing different ideas will confuse the reader.

Build your paragraphs according to the thesis and introduction.

• Start each body paragraph with the main sentence
• Use transitions to move between paragraphs smoothly
• Each paragraph should be five to six sentences long

Descriptive Essay Conclusion

The concluding paragraph is the last part of an essay, and probably your last chance to impress your reader.

The last part that the reader can keep in mind is the conclusion, which is as important as the rest of the essay.

To make it interesting and thought-provoking, include the following points:

• Restate the thesis statement
• Summarize the main points
• Add an intriguing closing statement

After writing the conclusion, make a review of your essay, identify the mistakes and maintain a good tone throughout the essay.

Descriptive Essay Format Sample

Here is the descriptive essay format to help you understand how you can write a winning descriptive essay.

DESCRIPTIVE ESSAY FORMAT (PDF)

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Descriptive Essay Topics Ideas

Descriptive essay topics are often related to physical settings, locations, living beings, and objects.

Make sure that your essay includes the five senses, touch, taste, smell, sight, hearing, or at least one of them. It depends on the topic and the kind of feeling that you want to arouse.

Below are some descriptive essay ideas and ways to achieve them.

Living Beings

When you want to write about a person like a family member, consider the following elements:

• Gender, age, complexion, and expressions
• Physical features
• Height, body type, and approximate weight
• Kind of clothes

These details will add depth to the description and your readers will actually see your narrative.

When animals are the subject, you can add the above points plus the following details:

• Species and animal
• Size, weight, color
• Behavior patterns
• Temperament
• Trained or wild?
• Real or fictional?

Inanimate Subjects

Geographic locations and structures.

When your subject is a place or a building, add the following points:

• Research about the place and its historical background
• The color and the building's type
• A famous place or landmark to draw a comparison and inspire interest

Human behavior and psychology is a compelling descriptive essay subject. When writing about it:

• Describe the consequences of a particular behavior
• Discuss the emotional dimension of the topic and how you perceive it personally

Event Or Travel Experience

A travel experience makes a good descriptive essay since you have experienced the event first hand.

Give a detailed description of the place, people at the venue, and the atmosphere of the location.

Idea, Concept, or Occupation

When writing on such topics, focus on how an idea or concept affects society and its different aspects.

Example Descriptive Essay Topics for Students

Choosing a topic for your descriptive essay is quite interesting. You get to choose something that you have an emotional connection with.

When writing a descriptive essay about a person or place, adding their personal traits will be helpful.

Some examples of descriptive essay topics include:

• Compose a detailed descriptive essay about your best friend.
• Describe a fancy place that you have created.
• Describe your dream vacation destination.
• Describe your favorite mall or store.
• Describe your childhood home.
• Descriptive essay about nature.
• Descriptive essay about a place you visited.
• Describe the personality of your Maths teacher.
• Discuss the main characters of your favorite movie.
• Descriptive essay about chocolate.
• Write an essay using unique Words to describe yourself.
• What makes me unique?
• My first love.

Descriptive Essay Examples

Study these descriptive essay examples and sample papers to understand the main idea, structure, and purpose of descriptive essays.

DESCRIPTIVE ESSAY ON MARKET (PDF)

DESCRIPTIVE ESSAY EXAMPLE PERSON (PDF)

To help you understand how to write a great descriptive essay, we have a whole blog post dedicated to it. We know that talking about something is one thing and demonstrating it is completely different.

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Frequently Asked Questions

What are the features of a descriptive essay.

A descriptive essay provides a perfect opportunity for writers to express their feelings on any subject. Descriptive writing has rich sensory details which appeal to all of your senses.

How do you start a descriptive essay introduction?

The introduction to the descriptive essay should set the scene and introduce the main topic. You can use these sensory details to get a sense of what the essay is all about.

What are the two types of descriptive essays?

There are two types of descriptive essays. The first type deals with people, and the second one is about objects.

What are the elements of a descriptive essay?

Here are the key elements of a descriptive essay.

• Sensory details
• Figurative language
• Central and main theme
• Precise and clear language
• Proper organization of ideas

What makes good descriptive writing?

Good and effective descriptive writing consists of vivid sensory details that appeal to all senses including the sense of sight, smell, touch, hearing, and taste. Moreover, these essays also explain people’s feelings in writing.

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Descriptive Essay

Descriptive Essay Outline

Creating a Descriptive Essay Outline - Format & Example

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Do you often find yourself staring at a blank page, unsure of how to structure your descriptive essay ideas effectively? If so, you're not alone. 

The art of descriptive essay writing can be both exciting and challenging, but many students struggle to create a perfect outline. 

In this blog post, we will address these common problems and provide you with a step-by-step guide to creating a well-structured outline. By the end of this article, you will not only understand what a descriptive essay outline is but also know how to create one effectively. 

So let’s get started!

• 1. Defining Descriptive Essay
• 2. Descriptive Essay Outline Template
• 3. Descriptive Essay Outline Examples 
• 4. Descriptive Essay Format
• 5. Descriptive Essay Writing Tips

Defining Descriptive Essay

A descriptive essay asks you to create a vivid picture in readers’ minds while engaging all of the human senses. It provides all the sensory details and a complete description of the topic. Creating an outline for a descriptive essay helps in organizing the information and sensory details of the topic. 

The typical descriptive essay usually consists of 5 paragraphs. 5 paragraph structure is the most followed structure in essay writing. Let’s understand this type of outline:

Steps to Write a 5-Paragraph Descriptive Essay Outline

A 5 paragraph descriptive essay has 1 introductory paragraph, 3 body paragraphs, and 1 conclusion paragraph. These three parts should be included in a descriptive essay. All of these sections are required to fulfill the need for a descriptive essay.

Here is how to write a 5 paragraph descriptive essay in 3 simple steps:

Step 1: Descriptive Essay Introduction

An introduction is the first thing that a reader is going to read in your essay. So, it should be interesting, engaging as well as eye-catching. It should be able to hook the reader with your essay and make him want to read the complete essay.

• Start the  essay introduction  by introducing the topic with an interesting hook statement that grabs the reader’s attention. Briefly mention the ideas that give a hint to the reader of what you are going to discuss in the body.
• Provide a  thesis statement  that gives an informational description of the topic and also appeals to the reader’s emotions.

Step 2: Descriptive Essay Body Paragraphs

The body is the section where you provide a complete description and sensory details of the topic. All the ideas should be presented in separate paragraphs. A typical 5 paragraph essay consists of 3 body paragraphs, but they can be increased depending on the number of ideas.

• Each body paragraph should begin with a topic sentence centered around a key idea. 
• Organize your ideas in chronological order, using clear and concise language to create a tangible image in the reader's mind. 
• Support your ideas with evidence and, if applicable, cite credible external sources. 
• Conclude each body paragraph with a thoughtful analysis of the idea presented.

Step 3: Descriptive Essay Conclusion

This is the final part of your essay and should leave the reader feeling satisfied and thoughtful.

• Here, reflect on the initial purpose of your essay and why you chose to write about the topic. 
• Restate your thesis statement in a fresh way, offering a concise summary of your discussion. 
• Conclude with a compelling statement that leaves the reader with something to ponder.

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Descriptive Essay Outline Template

Here is a descriptive essay outline sample template: 

Descriptive Essay Outline Examples 

Now, let's put theory into practice and explore a few examples of how to outline descriptive essays using some topics.

Descriptive Essay Outline About a Person

Descriptive essay outline about a place.

Here are some descriptive essay outline PDFs that will help you craft a perfect outline for a descriptive essay.

We also have a worksheet to make the descriptive essay writing process easy for you. You can download it and use it for your next descriptive essay assignment.

Descriptive Essay Outline Worksheet

Descriptive Essay Outline Example

Here is a descriptive essay outline for middle school

Descriptive Essay Outline Example Middle School

Need more samples for inspiration? Check out our descriptive essay examples blog and explore a number of free essay samples!

Descriptive Essay Format

When it comes to formatting this type of essay, there are specific guidelines to ensure your work is visually appealing and easy to read. Here are some key formatting considerations:

• Font & Size: Use a 12-point, readable font like Times New Roman or Arial.
• Margins: Maintain 1-inch margins on all sides.
• Line Spacing: Double-space text, including the title and headings.
• Title Page: Include one if specified, with your name, instructor, course, and date.
• Title: Center it on the first page, using a larger font or bold.
• Page Numbers: Add them to the top right corner, including the title page if present.
• Paragraph Indentation: Start each paragraph with a 0.5-inch indent.
• Justification: Left-align text for readability.
• Citation Style: Apply the designated citation style (APA, MLA, Chicago) consistently.

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Descriptive Essay Writing Tips

Until now, you definitely have understood how to craft an outline for a descriptive essay. Here are some amazing tips that will help you craft a flawless essay in no time.

• Choose the Right Topic: Brainstorm for different ideas and interesting topics. Choose a unique and amazing topic for your essay. Check out our descriptive essay topics blog for interesting ideas.
• Show, Don't Tell: Instead of stating facts, use descriptive language to evoke vivid images and sensations in your reader's mind.
• Engage the Senses: Appeal to sight, sound, taste, smell, and touch to create a multi-sensory experience.
• Organize Details: Use a clear and logical structure, such as an outline, to ensure your descriptions flow smoothly. Connect your ideas by using transition words .
• Use Metaphors and Similes: These figures of speech can add depth and meaning to your descriptions.
• Edit and Revise: Polish your essay for clarity, conciseness, and coherence, ensuring it captivates your readers.

To Sum it Up!

Crafting a well-structured descriptive essay outline is the first step toward creating an engaging and immersive essay. By following the outline and tips outlined in this guide, you'll have the tools to create a perfect outline.

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Keep reading

Descriptive essay: Easy and helpful writing tips

As a rule, the fact that you need to write even the shortest assignment can spoil the mood of almost any student. Not everybody knows that there are myriads types of essays. Hence, you need to be aware of how exactly they differ from one another. That is why you might begin asking yourself and later turn to Google search with the question, "how to write a descriptive essay?"

So, let's start with the descriptive essay definition. Do you know the features of the essay and how online custom essay service define this type of writing? What is a descriptive essay in general? To figure this out, you always have to keep in mind the word "describe," as it is, obviously, closely connected to the core idea of the essay. So, a descriptive essay is a paper aimed to illustrate something using your own language, words, and thoughts. An excellent descriptive essay should create a full picture of a person or an object which you describe so that the reader would see it as if it were a tangible thing.

Writing a descriptive essay: Important aspects

First, one of the most important questions to answer when you start writing a descriptive essay is,"What is the purpose of a descriptive essay?"

The purpose of the descriptive essay is to create a detailed image of a situation, particular life experience, certain feeling or emotion, a person or a place, etc. You don't have to argue or persuade the reader - your task is to paint a vivid and easy-to-imagine picture using words, so the descriptive essay ideas given at the end of this article will definitely be useful. But, does it mean that the descriptive essay format is different?

Although such a genre doesn't require you to follow very strict rules, in comparison to other types, this essay must be logically organized. The reader will go through the essay, paragraph by paragraph, and if some parts of the paper lose their logical connection, it will be impossible to convey your message correctly.

The descriptive essay structure basics

The format of this essay type is based on the general rules of academic writing. However, its parts have to create a coherent impression of what you describe. Therefore, descriptive essay structure includes all the essential components such as introduction, body text, and conclusion. The introduction explains the purpose of your essay. Apart from the opening sentences, it should also have the thesis statement.

How to start a descriptive essay effectively

Now, let's discuss the layout of a descriptive essay in more details. First, we will take a look at some tips on how to start a descriptive essay.

This kind of essay requires a higher degree of creativity, but it doesn't mean that it doesn't follow conventional rules. That is why you begin with an introductory paragraph.

What should a descriptive essay introduction include?

This part plays a crucial role because it is the opening section of your essay. Hence, it should be attractive for the readers so that they would like to continue reading your work. Here, you explain the reasons you describe this particular object, event or a person. Your introduction should have hooking sentences to draw the reader's attention within the first several minutes. You may use a witty anecdote or a famous quotation to create a good opening. Another important thing you mustn't forget is the thesis statement for your essay.

The core idea: How to write a thesis statement for a descriptive essay?

A descriptive essay thesis is one of the most impactful aspects of your writing. It covers the topic in general and tells your readers the focus of the essay. Don't describe abstract notions, as it isn't a good idea for such an essay since your thesis will be challenging to develop. However, a thesis statement could be called the heart of any paper, and the descriptive essay isn't an exception. A good thesis statement should contain the central idea of your essay and the reasoning reflected in the body paragraphs.

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How to start a body paragraph for a descriptive essay?

As we have already mentioned, generally a descriptive essay consists of five paragraphs. It means that your body text has to be divided into three main subsections. The first and the last ones are your introduction and conclusion sections. But, the three body paragraphs should prove the primary point of your thesis and be well-organized and structured logically. When you go into detailed characteristics of something, you would want to appeal to people's senses. However, don't try to activate all five senses, as you'll overload your paper. Choose three with the help of which your readers would be able to visualize the object as realistically as possible. These three paragraphs should be focused on these different senses. Every one of them must have only one main idea. Therefore, the most successful way to start a body paragraph for a descriptive essay is to write this main point at the beginning and continue developing it in the next sentences.

Descriptive essay conclusion writing rules

In case you are a bit puzzled and don't know how to write a conclusion for a descriptive essay, here are some tips. It would be a good idea to write an extensive descriptive essay conclusion which gives your overall impression of the object you described, and not just restating your thesis statement laid out at the beginning. You can also summarize the key points you mentioned in the previous paragraphs and say how they are connected.

Descriptive essay outline example

The outline may vary based on the topic you choose, but its general structure will probably look like this:

I. Introduction

• Include opening sentences.
• Write background info (several reasons why you are writing the essay).
• Include the thesis statement.

II. The First paragraph

• This paragraph introduces the main topic, describes some aspect related to it.
• Write a topic sentence which gives the readers the main idea of the whole passage.
• The text in this paragraph should be connected to the topic sentences and thesis statement.

III. The Second paragraph

• Start with the transition word or phrase which would tell the readers they are about to move to the next part of the essay.
• Focus on the next aspect of the object you are describing.
• Write it the same way as the first one.

IV. The Third paragraph

• The last paragraph of your text body covers the third aspect of your chosen topic.
• Don't forget to use transition words and phrases before moving to the last paragraph.

V. Conclusion

• Provide a summary of the text which you just have written.
• Repeat the idea of your thesis, and major points of your paper, but express them differently.

Good descriptive essay topics to use

These topics for a descriptive essay will be a good example for your future work. Check them out and try to come up with your own good descriptive essay ideas.

• Describe your role model. Think about this person's character, choose and describe the features you would like to have.
• Do you remember your first teacher? Describe his or her character.
• Describe the family traditions you consider to be the most important to you.
• If you were allowed to make a tattoo, what would be and why? Give as many details as possible.
• Remember an important event in your life. How old were you? Where did it take place? Describe the feelings and emotions you had.

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Best Descriptive Essays: Examples & How-to Guide [+ Tips]

A descriptive essay is an academic paper that challenges a school or college student to describe something. It can be a person, a place, an object, a situation—anything an individual can depict in writing. The task is to show your abilities to communicate an experience in an essay format using vivid, illustrative language.

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To understand how to write this paper, you’ll need to study some descriptive essay examples for college. Besides, you need to contemplate these aspects:

• how someone or somewhere looks;
• what happens with the person or place;
• what historical record you can add, if at all possible.

Our team has prepared this guide so that you’ll manage to write a famous descriptive essay. Learn how to outline your paper, nail the structure and the thesis statement. See the tips and explanations below, along with descriptive essay samples.

• 🖌️ Why Descriptive?

Research & Prepare

Outline your essay, write descriptively, revise & polish.

• 🖼️ Essay Examples

🖌️ What Makes an Essay Descriptive?

It’s time to make clear what we mean by a descriptive essay . For example, let’s suppose we were asked to write about a sports stadium. Here are two introductions we might come up with:

Example 1: A stadium is a place where sports, concerts, or other events take place. Usually, there will be a field or a stage, which most often will be surrounded completely or partially by a structure where spectators can sit or stand to watch.

Example 2: American sports nuts got what was probably their first sight of Twickenham rugby stadium when the Rugby World Cup Final was played there in 2015. Rugby has been played at Whitton Road in Twickenham since 1907, and the first international match took place three years later in 1910; when no game was scheduled, horses grazed the pitch. What is now the shining steel and glass double-decker West Stand was still, in the 1960s, a car park. Currently one of the world’s most state-of-the-art grounds, Twickenham holds 82,000 people, and it’s no longer horses when rugby is not being played but world-famous bands like U2, The Rolling Stones, and Bon Jovi who fill the place.

The first introduction is excellent for analytical essays as it’s a definition of what a sports stadium is. The second one depicts a specific stadium, and that – that act of describing – is what makes it descriptive.

When you’re writing a descriptive essay, it’s the style of the second example and not the first that you should be striving for. Try to use living, vivid language to draw a picture in words of whatever it is you’re writing about.

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🎨 How to Write Good Descriptive Essays

When you’re writing a paper, the standard advice would be:

• Say what you’re going to tell your reader.
• Say what you’ve told your reader.

The same fundamental structure applies to a descriptive essay. Yet, there are numerous nuances that you should keep in mind to produce an outstanding paper. In the following sections, we’ll elaborate on them in detail.

So, you are ready to write your excellent descriptive essay, but you don’t know how to start? Don’t be lost. While writing any kind of paper, start with the research and preparation. Take a look at our tips!

• Consider the topic that you’re working with. Whether it’s assigned or picked by you, make sure you understand it completely. Make sure that it’s a descriptive essay that you’re supposed to write.
• Have a brainstorming session. Jot down some notes on what you think about the matter. Some of them will be useless, but it’s okay: among all the ideas, you’ll find something useful for your paper.
• Do some research. Find out what other people think about the place or event, if possible. Make notes about essential historical facts and people’s opinions.
• Add details. A good descriptive essay should be full of specifics. So, include background information, dates, names, physical characteristics, etc. This trick will help the reader to dive deep into the story and get the idea better.
• Are you going to go with your perspective?
• Are you going to go with other people’s opinions?
• Would the best result for this particular essay come from weighing the options? (So, you’d write, “Some people think this and some people believe in that ).

After all these steps, you’ll have enough material to create your descriptive essay structure.

When you have enough facts and memories, you can move on to the next step – outlining. We highly recommend you create an outline before you start writing an essay. It will help you to structure your ideas logically and coherently.

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Your essay outline should include the following elements:

• Introduction . A good introduction should be catchy and concise. Start with the hook—an attention-grabbing element (rhetorical question, joke, statistics, etc.). Then, provide the general background and highlight the issues your essay will cover. End your intro with a clear thesis statement—a sentence that reflects your position.
• Body paragraphs . Each body paragraph should contain only one idea and start from the topic sentence, so the reader knows what to focus on. Make your body paragraphs full of details and specific examples. Don’t be too general because you risk losing the reader’s attention very fast.
• Conclusion . Wrap up your essay by restating the main points and summarizing your key ideas. Don’t include any new facts in the last paragraph. If you suspect that you miss an essential argument, better add it in the body.

Besides having a good structure, the best descriptive essay should be composed of strong and dynamic words. In this section, we will explain how to make your paper illustrative and memorable.

To make your writing descriptive , try the following:

• Choose your POV.

Decide who is the narrator of your story and filter the vocabulary through the narrator’s perspective. For example, you are describing your memories of childhood. Thus, your character is a child. Think how the kid’s perception of the world differs from reality and try to convey the feelings using appropriate words. Note that you can still write in the third person.

• Rely on precise words.

Avoid too abstract terms and general words. Instead, use dynamic vocabulary that precisely conveys your feelings. For example, you might write, “I felt bad.” Let’s make it more specific! How about writing, “I felt exhausted/ horrified/ anxious/ sick/ stressed, etc.”?

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• Use figures of speech.

Don’t forget about the wide variety of literary devices! Use comparisons, metaphors, onomatopoeia, or exaggeration. You might say, “my girlfriend has beautiful eyes.” But Shakspeare would say. “My mistress’ eyes are nothing like the sun” ( Sonnet, 130 ). Strive to be this creative!

• Keep connotations and variations in mind.

Use the richness of the language to improve your creative writing skills. English is full of synonyms and various grammar structures. Take the maximum benefit from them. BUT! Avoid using the word if you are unsure about its meaning.

• Compare and contrast.

Nothing can help to describe things better than comparison. So, deepen your sentences by examining the contrast and similarities between the objects or emotions.

• Implement sensory details.

Do you remember the five basic human senses? They are sight, hearing, taste, touch, and smell. Rather than just telling the story, try to appeal to the reader’s five senses. This trick will help you to make the audience more engaged in your narrative.

When you reach the end, you haven’t finished. What you’ve done is to create the first version of your descriptive essay. Professional writers know how vital the first draft is because it isn’t possible to edit a blank page.

To revise and polish your text, follow these steps:

• Check the structure. Your essay has to contain all the fundamental parts (introduction, main body, conclusion). Also, make sure that there are transitions between the key points and topic sentences at the beginning of each paragraph.
• Check the balance. All the essay parts should be approximate of the same significance. Keep in mind that each point should have the same number of details and arguments.
• Make sure you explored all the points. Read your introduction, paying extra attention to the thesis statement. Then, look through the entire essay and check whether you discussed every aspect you introduced in the first paragraph.
• Examine your information. Every piece of data and detail has to be valid. Make sure your arguments are logical, and your examples are appropriate. If something seems weak, rewrite it or consider cutting that part down.
• Polish your conclusion. The last paragraph of your essay should correspond to the introduction. Moreover, it should summarize your points and make a final impression on the reader. Make your conclusion memorable and dynamic.

You may go through this revision and rewriting process several times. Or you may become so skilled at writing descriptive essays that you’re good to go after the first revision.

🖼️ Famous Descriptive Essay Examples

Now that we’ve discussed how to write a descriptive essay, we should tell you the last crucial tip. Your chances of composing a perfect paper are low when you don’t check the samples first.

Here, you can find specific descriptive essay examples in these guides:

• Coral Reef Essay :

Do you admire wildlife? Are you fascinated by the divine beauty of the sea and ocean creatures? If you have a task to write about nature, or you can choose the topic yourself, think about composing a descriptive essay about coral reefs!

• Harriet Tubman Essay :

Do you need to talk about an outstanding historical figure? Or you need to compose a descriptive essay about a person? Choose an American political activist Harriet Tubman. Her biography and achievements won’t leave you indifferent!

• Americanism Essay :

Americanism is one of the most common paper topics for college students in the U.S. Has your instructor gave you the assignment to write about the USA identity? Compose a descriptive essay on Americanism!

• Halloween Essay :

Everybody loves holidays! And the teachers like to give the tasks to write about them. If you are wondering what celebration to select, consider choosing Halloween. It offers a bunch of traditions to describe.

Descriptive Essay Topics

• Description of punk culture .
• The beauty of Dresden .
• Give a description of Sweetbay Magnolia ornamental tree.
• Memorable design of Apple Company’s logo .
• Representation of emotions while viewing art or nature .
• Describe the Paricutín volcano .
• Give a description of Diana Krall’s concert at Jazz Festival in San Sebastián .
• Compare the interior and exterior of the Palatine Chapel and St. Michael’s Chapel .
• Discuss the design principles and visual elements of the Baptistery of San Giovanni’s south doors .
• The unusual style of the Graduate House of the University of Toronto .
• The description of the Jewish religious service.
• The magnificence of the Great Barrier Reef in Australia .
• The overview of my dream car .
• Discuss the design of Britam Tower in Nairobi .
• An exceptional scenery of the Lake Geneva, Switzerland.
• Description and analysis of the film The Joker .
• The day I was buying a laptop .
• Give a description of main types of friendship .
• Main holidays in Pakistan and how they are celebrated.
• The historical atmosphere of Ellis Island .
• The unique culture of Cook Island inhabitants.
• Describe the impressions of the picture .
• Describe traditions and culture of the Kootenai Indians .
• What does my dream home look like?
• Discuss the visual elements of Lady Sennuwy statue .
• Balinese wedding ceremonies and traditions.
• Recount your first day at college .
• Describe and analyze Susan Anthony’s life and achievements .
• The unique beauty of the Amazon rainforest .
• The important elements of the Haitian flag .
• Values and specifics of Brazilian culture .
• The magnificence of Shark Valley .
• Describe the activities and personality of Eleanor Roosevelt .
• Describe the writing process .
• The peculiarities of a tapa and it’s role in cultural ceremonies.
• Give the description of the statue of Osiris-Antinous .
• Discuss the Ways of Christmas Sweater Day celebration.
• What impresses you the most in Cézanne’s art .
• Description of Atlantis Paradise Island site .
• Describe the peculiarities of your favorite music .
• Analyze the characteristics of contemporary design in Evolution Queen Wall Bed .
• Movements, symbolism, and transformation of the Chinese Dragon Dance and Lion Dance .
• Describe the falling in love process.
• Narrate about your first try to ride a bicycle .
• Representation of the ancient Greek design: the marble column from the Temple of Artemis at Sardis .
• Discuss the thematic elements of Indian Fire God painting by Frederic Remington .
• The personality and art of Tracey Emin .
• Describe the history of PayPal company .
• Describe the features and historical meaning of the Column of Trajan .
• Overview of the painting Toy Pieta by Scott Avett.

In case these ideas aren’t for you, you can find more descriptive essay topics on our website.

Thanks for visiting our page! Share it with your friends and explore the other articles on our website. We have more useful information for you.

🔗 References

• Descriptive Writing, Organization and Structure: Writing Center, Indiana University of Pennsylvania
• Examples of How to Write a Good Descriptive Paragraph: Richard Nordquist, ThoughtCo
• How Can I Write More Descriptively: Sweetland Center for Writing, College of Literature, Science, and the Arts, the University of Michigan
• Revising the Draft: Laura Saltz, the Writing Center at Harvard University
• Descriptive Essays: Purdue Writing Lab, College of Liberal Arts, Purdue University
• Paragraph Development, Organizing Your Social Sciences Research Paper: Research Guides at the University of Southern California
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Descriptive Essay – How to Write It

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Descriptive essays enable students to learn the fundamentals of writing and self-expression. It is also possible to write descriptive essays far into your professional career, depending on your line of work and writing objectives. This post will discuss descriptive essays and how to write them properly.

Inhaltsverzeichnis

• 1 Descriptive Essay – In a Nutshell
• 2 Definition: Descriptive Essay
• 3 Descriptive Essay: Finding a Topic
• 4 Structure of a Descriptive Essay
• 5 Descriptive Essay: A Vivid Description

Descriptive Essay – In a Nutshell

• Descriptive essays should arouse a reader’s emotions and create an association with them.
• You should choose a specific topic and use it as a central theme that shapes the direction of the essay and the organisation of details.
• It should have an introduction, body paragraphs and a conclusion to finalise the writer’s aim of writing the essay.
• Combine direct and figurative language to help the reader visualise the subject

Definition: Descriptive Essay

• A descriptive essay is a genre of composition or writing that vividly describes a subject, procedure or event.
• It is usually used to test the student’s capacity to document an account of a specific experience with a subject.
• It also provides a large room for creativity as its aim is to paint a clear image that can move the reader’s mind.
• Descriptive essays are relatively different from the other genres since the goal is to appeal to the five senses; taste, hearing, sight, smell and touch.
• Every good descriptive essay should be able to appeal to all these senses. It should also focus on a specific topic and have a particular purpose.
• For instance, you can write about your experiences and the lessons you learnt from them.
• Basically, descriptive essays are all about converting your thought processes into writing.

Descriptive Essay: Finding a Topic

Choosing a topic is the first and arguably the most important step in descriptive essay writing. There are several ways you can go about picking a topic for your essay, including brainstorming and reading example descriptive essays to get general ideas.

For most students, brainstorming is the most effective technique since it focuses more on personal experiences and things they are interested in. It also lets you break down broad ideas into simple and workable topics. For instance, you can take a subject such as camping and think about their purpose and what people do in them. As you brainstorm, make a list of possible ideas you can comfortably write about in detail. When done, note topics that suit you and are more likely to move your readers.

Another technique you can use to choose a topic is reading examples of descriptive essays for general ideas. Focus on the direction of the essay and how the writer has organised the subject details within the content. You can pick essays that align with your interests, so you choose a topic you are comfortable writing about. Here are a few topic ideas you can use for your next descriptive essay:

• Camping in the woods for the very first time
• My driving test
• The wild Highway-13 car pursuit
• The interview predicament
• The wedding day

Structure of a Descriptive Essay

Descriptive essays have a relatively straightforward structure, which consists of an introduction, body paragraphs and a conclusion to finalise the writer’s aim of writing the piece.

The Introduction

Your introduction provides general background info about the subject/topic you are writing about. It should have a hook that enables your writer to relate to the senses you are trying to tap into. You should also form a thesis statement that introduces a claim (not necessarily from an opinion or argument point).

The defining characteristics of Batman are his deep voice, Gotham City and the fact that he always shows up at the last minute.

The body can be divided into three subcategories:

Physical Description

Contextual description, emotional description.

Gives an in-depth physical description of the subject.

He was driving a black Honda Civic with Carolina plates. The passenger’s side window was bashed in, with shreds of glass all over the front seats and on the pavement where he packed the car. As he opened the driver’s side door, I noticed blood all over his right arm and the pocket area of his shorts.

Describes a subject in the given context (can be physical or temporal environment).

The sun was setting on the coast, and vehicles on the freeway were just beginning to turn on their lights. It started raining, and you could tell it was getting harder to keep the truck on the track. The fact that there were fewer cars (being a weekend) didn’t help the situation.

Describes the emotional effect of the subject on the people in the surrounding.

Every motorist and pedestrian scampered in different directions as he weaved through the traffic, ramming and sideswiping anyone in his way. Highway patrol units were getting increasingly agitated, with the situation taking a turn for the worst.

Summarises all the main points in the body text.

To many, the high-speed chase could have ended before it even started, but for me, there is no way he could let the boys in blue catch up with him. He had had a lot to drink for the night, was carrying a concealed weapon and, to cap it all up, he had outstanding warrants in several states. There was no way he was going down without a fight!

Descriptive Essay: A Vivid Description

Figurative language in descriptive essays involves the use of words in a non-literal way, such as metaphors and similes, to create memorable effects. Writing your content that way is essential since it opens up the window for creativity and distinguishes your essay from any other piece.

Here are the important things to consider when writing a descriptive essay:

• Pick a Topic: A good descriptive essay focuses on a specific topic (subject, person or event) at all times. It is important to identify the purpose of your essay before you choose a topic, make an outline and begin writing. To choose a topic, brainstorm ideas or research essays that align with your interests.
• Compile Details: You will need a lot of details in your descriptive essay since you have to paint a picture in the reader’s mind. So, once you have a topic, the next step is to list all the details, including physical characteristics, dates, sensory information and names. Basically, collect all the details and group them to make access easier as you write.
• Create an Outline: An outline would help you write an organised descriptive essay. So, create an outline that lists the details to discuss/write about in each paragraph.
• Write the Introduction: The introduction maps out your entire essay and lays down the foundation by providing background information regarding the subject. It should also have a hook that helps readers relate to the senses you are trying to tap into.
• Write the Body: The body is made of multiple paragraphs. Each paragraph should start with a topic sentence introducing the subject. Follow the outline to parse out details and be as specific as possible without overwhelming the reader with too much info.
• Write the Conclusion: Your conclusion summarises the primary details you have included in your body. Avoid introducing new ideas in the conclusion; rather, create a body paragraph if you feel there are some details you left out. Once you are done, do not forget to review and proofread your descriptive essay before submitting it.

What are the main characteristics of a descriptive essay?

Some of the main characteristics of descriptive essays include:

• Vivid description
• Figurative speech
• Precise language
• Thoughtful organisation

What is the purpose of a descriptive essay?

Descriptive essays are used to describe a place, thing or person in a way that creates a picture in the reader’s mind.

What is a descriptive essay?

A descriptive essay is a genre of writing that provides a vivid description of a subject, a procedure or an event.

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What Is a Descriptive Essay? Definition & 10+ Examples

Have you ever experienced a story so vividly that you felt like you were living in it? Welcome to the world of descriptive essays! These unique pieces are not just about telling a story but immersing readers in a multi-sensory experience.

With the right choice of words, descriptive essays allow readers to see, touch, taste, smell, and hear the story unfold, transporting them from the mundanity of reality into an exciting new world.

Get ready to explore the power of detailed descriptions and their ability to evoke emotions, create vivid images, and establish deep connections.

Table of Contents

Defining Descriptive Essay

A “Descriptive Essay” is a type of written composition that focuses on creating a detailed depiction of a person, place, object, event, or experience. It employs meticulous, vivid language and sensory details to paint a comprehensive and immersive picture in the reader’s mind.

A well-crafted descriptive essay doesn’t merely tell the reader what happened; instead, it draws them into the narrative, making them feel as if they’re part of the story.

This form of essay emphasizes the power of language to capture and convey not just the tangible aspects of the subject but also the intangible elements, such as emotions , impressions , and memories . It is a powerful literary tool that allows the writer to communicate a profound, personal perspective on the world around them.

Origin of Descriptive Essay

In the world of literature, various genres have been shaping the way we express ourselves through writing. One such genre is the descriptive essay. You may wonder about its historical roots and how it evolved over time. This brief account will provide you with an engaging and reader-friendly overview of the origin of descriptive essays, while being confident, knowledgeable, and clear.

Dating back to ancient civilizations, descriptive writing has often been utilized as a means of sharing stories and conveying emotions.

In ancient Greece , philosophers like Aristotle used descriptive language to explain complex theories and ideas. Meanwhile, travelogues from Marco Polo and Ibn Battuta were some of the earliest examples of non-fiction descriptive writing, providing readers with vivid impressions of the lands they journeyed through.

As literacy rates rose during the Renaissance period in Europe, the art of descriptive essay writing began to thrive. Notable authors, such as Michel de Montaigne and Francis Bacon, employed this technique to explore various aspects of human nature and society. They would use descriptive language to create a detailed and engaging picture for their readers.

Montaigne is especially known for his essays, where he shared his thoughts on various topics, including education, societies, and individual beliefs.

By the 18th and 19th centuries , descriptive essays had become a popular form of writing. The Romantic Movement, with authors like William Wordsworth, Samuel Taylor Coleridge, and John Keats, heavily relied on descriptive language to explore the beauty of nature and evoke emotions in their readers.

These masterful works pushed the boundaries of descriptive essay writing and influenced future generations of writers.

Over time, different writing styles and schools of thought emerged, but the essence of descriptive essay writing remains the same: to paint a vivid picture using words, enabling the reader to visualize and connect with the subject matter .

Even today , it remains a vital literary technique that showcases the power of human creativity and our ability to share experiences through the written word.

Functions of Descriptive Essay

Descriptive essay captures the reader’s imagination.

A well-written descriptive essay captures the reader’s imagination by creating vivid images in their mind. By using precise language and rich sensory details, you can paint a picture of an experience, person, or setting that is both engaging and memorable.

Providing intriguing facts and trivia within your essay can further stimulate the reader’s curiosity.

To be successful, consider what aspects of your topic will be most interesting to your reader, and focus on those elements. Convey emotion and mood through your writing, immersing the reader in the moment.

Remember, your goal is to render the experience so vividly that the reader feels as though they were right there with you.

Descriptive Essay Enhances Emotional Engagement

A descriptive essay goes beyond merely recounting events or facts; it seeks to evoke an emotional response from the reader. By crafting your descriptions and using choice words, you can effectively elicit emotions, creating intimacy between reader and subject.

Your essay should provide tips that help the reader relate to the subject and better understand the emotions being experienced.

Emotional engagement in your essay can make the reader care about the subject or the story being told. By investing emotionally, the reader is more likely to continue reading and feel a connection to the material.

Carefully choosing language and descriptions can shape the mood of your essay, drawing the reader in as they vicariously experience what you describe.

Descriptive Essay Facilitates Better Understanding

With a descriptive essay, your goal is not only to entertain but also to help your reader better understand the topic. By offering detailed descriptions and portraying elements from various perspectives, the reader can grasp difficult concepts or visualize complex settings.

Make sure to explain aspects of your topic that may be challenging for a reader to envision. Convey the most important features or ideas by providing clear, succinct descriptions. Use analogies or comparisons if necessary to break down complex ideas for your reader.

Your goal is to educate while keeping the essay engaging and enjoyable to read.

Descriptive Essay Provides Personal Insight

Through a descriptive essay, you can provide personal insight and share your unique perspective on the subject. Your individual style and tone can make an impression on the reader and impact their perception of the topic.

As you express your thoughts and emotions, your reader can gain an understanding of your personal connection to the subject.

It is essential to reflect on your own experiences and feelings, and consider how they resonate with your reader. Remember to balance the sharing of your own thoughts with the detailed descriptions that create a complete picture for your reader.

By doing so, you offer them both intimacy and a well-rounded understanding of the subject matter.

Descriptive Essay Acts as A Tool for Exploring Ideas

A descriptive essay can be a valuable tool for exploring ideas and examining various perspectives. In writing a descriptive essay, you may discover new aspects or perspectives on the topic as you delve into details and reflect on the meaning and implications they hold.

When exploring ideas and viewpoints, it is essential to remain open to different interpretations and keep a neutral tone. This will allow your reader to engage critically with your text and consider multiple possibilities when interpreting the subject matter.

By fostering an environment for thoughtful discourse, your descriptive essay can inspire further discussion and contemplation among readers.

Characteristics of Descriptive Essay

Descriptive essay utilizes sensory details.

A key quality of descriptive essays is that they rely on sensory details. By employing the use of the five senses – sight, sound, smell, taste, and touch — you can create a vivid and engaging experience for your readers. For instance, instead of simply stating that you enjoy the scent of coffee, describe it as the warm, rich aroma that permeates the air.

Utilize these sensory details to evoke emotions and paint a picture in the reader’s mind. Remember, the primary goal is to create an immersive experience for your audience.

A tip when using sensory details is to be selective and purposeful. Choose descriptions that add depth to your essay and contribute to the overall narrative. Strive to maintain a balance between providing enough information to engage the reader and overwhelming them with excessive details fully.

Descriptive Essay Contains Precise Language

In a descriptive essay, choosing the right language is essential. Using precise language allows you to convey your thoughts and ideas to your reader effectively. Vivid and figurative language can add depth to your descriptions, making them more engaging and memorable.

To achieve precise language, you can employ various techniques such as metaphors, similes, and personification, which can provide a more engaging and clear picture for the reader. Pay attention to your word choice and avoid vague or ambiguous language that can confuse or mislead your readers.

Descriptive Essay Organizes Thoughts Coherently

A well-organized descriptive essay creates a seamless reading experience. To achieve this, you should arrange your thoughts and ideas into logical sections or paragraphs that flow smoothly.

Start by deciding which aspects of your subject you want to describe, and then organize your thoughts into an outline before you begin writing.

When structuring your essay, use clear transitions and link words between paragraphs to guide your reader and maintain the logical flow. Keep your descriptions coherent, ensuring that all details and descriptions work together to create a complete and immersive experience.

Keep sentences and paragraphs concise and focused, avoiding unrelated or extraneous information that might distract the reader.

Descriptive Essay Showcases Creativity

Descriptive essays are a perfect opportunity for you to showcase your creativity. By using imaginative and unique descriptions, you can captivate your readers and hold their attention throughout the essay. Experiment with different stylistic techniques and explore various narrative styles.

Find innovative ways to describe common objects or experiences, surprising the reader and encouraging them to view the subject from a different perspective.

Descriptive Essay Contains a Dominant Impression

One of the most crucial aspects of a descriptive essay is the dominant impression. This refers to the overall effect or feeling that your essay should leave the reader with. The dominant impression serves as the unifying theme throughout your essay, guiding your choice of words, descriptions, and sensory details.

To create a dominant impression, determine the primary emotion or message you want to convey, and then use your descriptions and language choices to reinforce this theme.

Consistency is crucial––maintaining a coherent and focused narrative helps to ensure that your readers finish your essay with a clear understanding of the intended impression.

Remember, in a descriptive essay, confident and knowledgeable writing can make all the difference. By utilizing sensory details, precise language, coherent organization, creative techniques, and a strong dominant impression, your writing will not only engage but also captivate your readers.

Elements of A Descriptive Essay

Sensory details.

In a descriptive essay, your main goal is to create a vivid experience for the reader. One essential way to achieve this is by using sensory details. Sensory details help to paint a clear picture for the reader by engaging their five senses: sight, sound, smell, taste, and touch.

When composing your essay, try to think of specific moments, situations, or objects that evoke strong feelings and memories. Describe these experiences in such a way that your reader can almost see, hear, smell, taste, or feel them as well.

Don’t forget to occasionally give some facts or trivia to keep the reader engaged and interested in the subject matter.

Figurative Language

Another critical element to include in a descriptive essay is figurative language. This form of language makes use of words and expressions that go beyond their literal meanings to convey complex or vivid ideas. Some common types of figurative language are metaphors, similes, and personification.

Metaphors make comparisons between two, unlike things, while similes compare using “like” or “as.” Personification attributes human qualities to non-human entities. Here, you can provide some quick tips on how to use these literary devices in your writing effectively.

The figurative language will help give your essay a unique and enriching style that captures the reader’s attention.

Dominant Impression

In a descriptive essay, you want to create a dominant impression — that is, a central theme or overarching idea that holds the entire piece together. A good dominant impression helps the reader understand and connect with your description. It becomes the lens through which they view the rest of your essay.

To achieve this, try to focus on one specific aspect, quality, or emotion you want to convey. Then, use sensory details and figurative language to support and expand on that central theme consistently. Consciously consider the tone of your writing to maintain a confident, knowledgeable, and clear voice throughout.

Precise Vocabulary

Descriptive essays call for specific and precise vocabulary to paint a clear and vivid picture for the reader. In order to make your essay stand out and effectively communicate the experiences you are trying to portray, choose your words carefully.

Opt for terms that have strong connotations and vivid imagery, as this will help to engage the reader’s senses and imagination. Always strive to use the best-suited word for the context, and avoid clichés or overused expressions.

Objective and Subjective Description

Descriptive essays can take on both objective and subjective perspectives. Objective descriptions, as the name suggests, present facts and observations without the writer’s personal feelings or opinions.

Subjective descriptions, on the other hand, allow the writer to share their emotions, thoughts, and opinions, thus giving the essay a more personal touch. When writing your essay, consider the balance between objective and subjective content. This decision will depend on your purpose, the topic, and the intended audience.

Emotional Resonance

A successful descriptive essay evokes strong emotions in the reader. To achieve emotional resonance, use sensory details, figurative language, and a dominant impression that resonates with your audience.

Be mindful of your readers’ feelings, as your essay’s subject matter and tone should be relatable and provoke a deep emotional response. Don’t forget to occasionally provide trivia or interesting facts to keep the reader engaged.

Chronological or Spatial Order

Consider using chronological or spatial order when crafting your descriptive essay. Chronological order refers to explaining events or situations in the sequence that they occurred, while spatial order describes the layout or arrangement of physical space.

This structure will help to organize your essay, making it easier for your reader to follow and understand your points. Decide which organizing principle best suits the topic and approach of your essay, and keep this organization consistent throughout your writing.

Structure of A Descriptive Essay

Introduction.

When writing a descriptive essay, your introduction should effectively capture your reader’s attention. It’s essential to start with a hook, a captivating sentence that pulls readers into your essay. After the hook, provide some context or background information on the subject you’ll be describing.

The last part of your introduction is the thesis statement, which acts as the main idea of your essay. This statement should be clear and concise, setting the tone for the rest of your piece.

Body Paragraphs

The body paragraphs of your descriptive essay are where the bulk of the information is presented. Each paragraph should focus on a specific aspect of the subject, with a strong topic sentence that clearly shows the concept being discussed.

Make sure each paragraph is relevant to your thesis statement and stays focused on that particular subject. When it comes to presenting your information, remember that variety is key – mix facts, trivia, and lesser-known details to maintain reader interest.

In a descriptive essay, sensory details are key. They engage all five senses, painting a rich, vivid picture that pulls the reader into the scene. It’s not just saying, “The room was cold,” but making you feel the icy chill, see your breath misting in the air. Each paragraph zooms in on a specific sense, keeping the essay organized and immersive.

One moment you’re absorbing the vibrant colors of a scene; next, you’re attuned to the soundscape or feeling textures. By dedicating sections to different senses, the essay delivers a full sensory experience, making you not just a reader but a participant in the narrative.

Incorporating figurative language can enhance your descriptive essay further. This includes using metaphors, similes, and personification to bring your prose to life. Figurative language can help to create a more engaging experience for readers and assist in conveying complex ideas more easily.

The conclusion of your descriptive essay should leave a lasting impression on your reader. This is achieved by summarizing the key points raised in the body paragraphs while connecting them to the thesis statement. Make sure to tie everything together, bringing your essay to a logical and satisfying end.

Remember to avoid introducing any new ideas in your conclusion; at this point, your goal is to bring closure to the essay.

Transitions

To ensure your descriptive essay flows smoothly, make good use of transitions. Transitions are words and phrases that connect ideas and create a cohesive reading experience. They serve to guide your reader from one point to the next, making sure there are no abrupt jumps or gaps in your writing.

Varied Sentence Structure

An effective descriptive essay should feature varied sentence structures. This means alternating between simple and complex sentences, as well as modifying the length and rhythm of your sentences. Variety helps to keep your reader engaged and maintains the overall flow of your essay.

Just like mixing facts and trivia, varying your sentence structure adds depth and interest to your writing. By incorporating these elements into your descriptive essay, you can confidently create a piece that is both informative and captivating.

Types of Descriptive Essays

Person descriptive essay.

In a person descriptive essay, you focus on describing a person’s physical appearance, character traits, and behaviors. It is essential to capture the essence of the individual being described, relying on precise details and vivid language. In doing so, create a clear image of the person in the reader’s mind.

Remember to be confident in your descriptions and avoid exaggeration . A helpful tip for this type of essay is to observe the person closely, noting their unique features and mannerisms.

In addition to their appearance, try to convey the person’s character and qualities. Describe how they interact with others, their beliefs, hobbies, and values. When presenting information about the person, maintain a knowledgeable and neutral tone, providing factual information instead of biased opinion.

This approach ensures a clear and accurate portrayal of the person, leaving the reader with a comprehensive understanding of the individual.

Place Descriptive Essay

A place descriptive essay requires you to describe the location’s physical aspects, such as landscape, architecture, and any prominent landmarks. Aim to evoke the reader’s senses by providing vibrant details of the environment and atmosphere.

It is crucial to remain neutral and factual in your descriptions, avoiding any personal judgments or biases. A handy tip for describing a place is to imagine yourself as a tour guide, providing relevant information for visitors.

Besides the physical characteristics, emphasize the place’s unique features or trivia to make the description more engaging. Discuss the cultural or historical significance, if applicable, and any noteworthy activities happening in the area.

Your overall goal in a place a descriptive essay is to transport the reader to the location, allowing them to experience its essence through your writing.

Object Descriptive Essay

An object descriptive essay focuses on describing a specific object’s physical properties and functions. You should offer a detailed description of the item’s appearance, including its shape, size, color, texture, and any distinctive elements.

Remember to maintain a neutral tone and rely on factual information, avoiding any exaggerated claims or embellishments.

In addition to the object’s appearance, discuss its use or purpose. Explain its importance or value, whether sentimental, practical, or historical. By providing comprehensive information about the object, you offer the reader a thorough understanding of its significance and context.

Event Descriptive Essay

When writing an event descriptive essay, you should describe a particular event or occurrence in detail. Explain the event’s circumstances, including its purpose, participants, and any notable outcomes. Ensure your account remains clear and factual, avoiding any personal biases or embellishments.

An interesting fact or trivia about the event can enhance the description, keeping the reader engaged.

Moreover, sets the scene by describing the event’s date, location, and atmosphere. Use vivid language to evoke the reader’s senses and transport them to the moment of the event. By providing a comprehensive account of the event, you allow the reader to experience its essence and understand its impact.

Experience Descriptive Essay

An experience descriptive essay aims to provide readers with an account of a personal experience. This type of essay often requires you to describe emotions, thoughts, and actions related to the event.

While some subjectivity is inherent in this essay, it is essential to provide a balanced perspective by discussing both the positive and negative aspects of the experience.

Paying close attention to detail, describe the events leading up to the experience, the emotions you felt during the event, and any lessons or realizations that resulted from it.

Maintain a clear and confident tone throughout, as well as a neutral perspective, ensuring the reader receives an accurate representation of the experience.

Concept Descriptive Essay

In a concept descriptive essay, you should focus on describing a particular idea or abstract concept. This type of essay requires you to present information about the concept’s origin, development, and significance.

Employ a knowledgeable and neutral tone, emphasizing the importance of the idea and its impact on society or individuals.

It is essential to provide a thorough explanation of the concept, including its various interpretations and applications. When presenting the information, use clear language to ensure the reader’s understanding.

By offering a comprehensive examination of the concept, you grant the reader a solid foundation for further exploration and analysis.

Emotion Descriptive Essay

An emotion-descriptive essay requires you to describe a specific emotion or feeling, focusing on its characteristics and causes. Begin by offering a clear definition of the emotion, explaining any nuances or variations in its meaning.

It is essential to adopt a neutral, confident tone when presenting information, ensuring the reader receives an accurate understanding of the emotion.

In addition to defining the emotion, discuss its potential causes and effects. Describe how the emotion might manifest in a person’s thoughts, actions, and physical sensations.

By providing a comprehensive account of the emotion, you allow the reader to gain a deeper understanding and appreciation for its complexities and significance.

Famous Examples of Descriptive Essays

How to write a descriptive essay.

Writing a descriptive essay can be an engaging and rewarding experience. Follow this step-by-step guide to create a piece that captures the essence of a person, place, or object using clear and concise language.

• Begin by brainstorming the subject matter . Think about the specific details you want to include and how they contribute to the overall impression. Jot down your ideas, considering the five senses: sight, smell, touch, taste, and sound. This will enable you to paint a vivid picture for your readers.
• Next, organize your ideas into a logical structure . Start with an attention-grabbing introduction that presents the subject of your essay. Then, develop body paragraphs that showcase the details you’ve gathered, using smooth transitions to guide the reader. Aim for a coherent flow, making sure that each paragraph supports the main purpose of your essay.
• Variety in sentence structure can make your essay more engaging and easier to read. Experiment with different sentence lengths , and don’t be afraid to use descriptive adjectives and figurative language that reveal your subject’s unique qualities. However, be mindful to avoid exaggeration or false claims. Maintaining a confident, knowledgeable, and clear tone will enhance the credibility of your writing.
• Finally, conclude your essay by briefly summarizing the main points without introducing new information. This will give a sense of closure, leaving a lasting impression on your reader. Keep in mind that proofreading and revising are essential steps for producing a polished piece.

Choosing Descriptive Essay Topics

When selecting a topic for your descriptive essay, it’s essential to pick something that is both interesting and engaging. The topic should be one that you can explore in-depth, providing vivid details, examples, and compelling descriptions.

Remember, your goal is to paint a vivid picture for your reader, so choose a topic that lends itself well to imaginative descriptions.

High school, college, and university students should consider a range of potential topics before settling on one. For instance, you might consider writing about a person who has had a significant impact on your life, a memorable place you’ve visited, or a unique object that holds special meaning for you.

Here are a few tips when selecting descriptive essay topics:

• Make sure the topic is something you are passionate about or genuinely interested in, as this will make your writing more engaging and enjoyable for both you and the reader.
• Identify the various elements or details that you can describe vividly, as these will help you create powerful, evocative imagery in your essay.

It can be helpful to look for inspiration from various sources, like books, movies, art, or personal experiences. For instance, you could describe a specific scene from your favorite film, a painting by a renowned artist, or a person you admire greatly.

Don’t forget to use specific details and examples to reinforce your descriptions and make them more vivid.

As a fun fact, many descriptive essays are inspired by real settings, people, or objects. In some cases, writers even draw on elements from their own lives to create authentic, relatable descriptions.

By immersing yourself in your topic and relying on your personal experiences, you can craft a truly unique and compelling essay that stands out from the rest. Remember to stay confident, knowledgeable, and clear as you create descriptions that bring your chosen topic to life for your reader.

Impact of Descriptive Essay

Descriptive essay enhances reader’s experience.

When you write a descriptive essay, it significantly improves the reader’s experience by creating vivid mental images in their mind. By using evocative language and key sensory details, you provide them with a more immersive experience that keeps them engaged and interested.

Descriptive essays also encourage readers to form a personal connection with the content, drawing them deeper into the narrative or personal essay you’re presenting. Remember, utilizing precise descriptions and focusing on relatability in your writing can make a substantial difference in how your audience perceives and connects with your work.

Another tip for enhancing the reader’s experience is to incorporate components of storytelling . When applying descriptive elements within a story, you create a deeper sense of involvement for the audience as they become emotionally invested in the characters and plot.

Utilizing a visual and emotive foundation in your writing will make it difficult for readers to put the piece down, making it an unforgettable read.

Descriptive Essay Contributes to Character Development

In your descriptive essay, the effective portrayal of characters is an essential aspect of character development. By providing detailed descriptions of a character’s physical appearance, demeanor, and emotional state, you offer insight into their personality and motivations.

This valuable information can lead your audience to empathize, relate to, or understand the driving factors behind the actions and decisions your subject makes.

When discussing character development, also consider providing trivia on your character. Your audience may find it interesting to know about any unique quirks, habits, or preferences your character possesses.

Integrating such facts help paint a more comprehensive picture, further humanizing and deepening the reader’s connection with the subject.

Descriptive Essay Shapes Plot Development

The narrative structure of your descriptive essay can make a significant impact on the direction and progression of your story or insightful personal essay. Providing rich sensory information on settings, situations, and events in your work can have a dramatic effect on the plot development.

By doing so, you immerse readers in the world you’ve created and help them understand the core elements of your story as it unfolds.

Remember to keep the momentum going in your writing. Offering tips or advice to your audience can contribute to the development of your narrative. For example, showing the consequences of a specific decision or providing a moment of reflection for the character ensures readers remain invested.

Descriptive Essay Influences Mood and Atmosphere

The mood and atmosphere of your descriptive essay can have a significant impact on your readers’ emotional response to your work. By using evocative language, and carefully choosing words and phrases, you can create a particular tone and ambiance throughout your narrative or personal essay.

Whether it’s a melancholic atmosphere or an aura of excitement, your choice of description can make readers feel connected to the emotions you’re presenting.

When establishing a particular mood or atmosphere, you may explore additional literary techniques to enhance the impact of your writing further. Using metaphors , similes , or symbolism can be an effective way to convey the underlying themes and emotions in your essay, making your narrative more immersive and engaging.

Descriptive Essay Adds Aesthetic Appeal to Literature

Descriptive essays contribute an aesthetic appeal to your writing, providing readers with a sense of beauty and artistic depth. Through detailed descriptions, your work can evoke an array of emotions and create feelings of awe, pleasure, or fascination.

This element of aesthetic appeal elevates your writing, turning it into more than just a story or an account of events but rather transforming it into an art form.

Taking your time to choose the perfect, most expressive words is an essential aspect of creating an aesthetically appealing piece. By striving for precision and clarity, your work will not only captivate your audience but also leave a lasting impression, creating a memorable reading experience.

Frequently Asked Questions

How can i improve my descriptive writing.

Improving descriptive writing can be achieved through practice, reading, and expanding your vocabulary. You should also focus on incorporating sensory details, using show-not-tell techniques, employing figurative language, and being precise and specific with your descriptions.

What should I avoid in descriptive writing?

In descriptive writing, you should avoid vague and generic descriptions, overuse of adjectives and adverbs, cliches, and passive voice. You should also avoid providing too many details that don’t contribute to the overall impression or picture you’re trying to create.

How long should a descriptive essay be?

The length of a descriptive essay can vary depending on the assignment or purpose. Typically, a descriptive essay can range from a one-page composition to several pages.

Regardless of length, it’s important to stay focused on the topic and ensure that each word and detail contributes to the overall picture or impression.

In closing, a descriptive essay stands as a powerful tool in the writer’s kit, providing a unique way to bring people, places, experiences, and objects to life. It hinges on painting vivid pictures through words, making it an artistic endeavor as much as an academic one.

With its rich sensory details, thoughtful organization, and expressive language, a descriptive essay not only enhances a reader’s understanding but also invites them to see the world from the writer’s perspective.

It’s an enriching craft to master, whether you’re a student aiming to improve your writing skills, an aspiring author wanting to captivate your audience, or simply someone who appreciates the beauty and potential of language.

As we explore the various facets of descriptive essays, we realize that they offer more than mere descriptions – they present a canvas where reality and imagination meld seamlessly.

So, the next time you set out to write, consider employing the elements of a descriptive essay, and you’ll be amazed at the depth and vividness you can achieve.

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Structure of Descriptive Essay

Descriptive essay has a unique power and appeal. It evokes sights, smells, sounds, tastes and textures. Effective description focuses on a dominant impression. A dominant impression shows a mood or atmosphere in your essay.

Table of Contents

Definition and Purpose of a Descriptive Essay

This mood can be expressed through effective descriptive writing. Another important thing for a descriptive essay is the usage of sensory details: sight, sound, touch, smell and taste to outline an impression in writing. The sensory details should create for the reader the same picture that you have in your mind. Instead of using ambiguous, general words, the sensory language should be precise. It makes the difference between vague and vivid languages. Descriptive essays also demands varying of sentence structure. Avoid using the same subject-verb patterns in the sentences. Interpose descriptive combining sentences.

A good descriptive essay has to:

• Give a vivid reception  of the subject of description;
• Include all the smallest and  important details;
• Show the emotional background of the subject;
• Demonstrate the author’s emotional response caused by the subject;
• Exclude every single irrelevant detail;
• Gradually indicate different aspects of the subject in each following paragraph.

Thus, a descriptive essay makes a strong accent on the observation and the descriptions performed by the author.

Structuring a Descriptive Essay

The major purpose of writing a descriptive essay is to  describe subject, object, scenery, situation, person and other things in a vivid manner in order to make the reader sense like he sees all this himself. For these reasons, there is a particular structure of descriptive essays:

• Introduction. In this part the author represents the reasons why he describes a person, object or situation. It should start with a strong opening, for example, a quotation that grabs the reader’s attention. The writer uses a thesis statement that belongs to the described object, person, situation, experience, etc. at the end of the introduction.
• Body. Here, the writer builds up each of the pointers that he wrote before. Usually, one point can be painted in the details, in one paragraph. In the body there are three paragraphs:

2.1.        Paragraph № 1 – The object itself (Here the author provides a vivid portrait of the object. He includes all the observed details and shows everything that referred to the object, person or situation).

2.2.        Paragraph№ 2 – The surroundings. The author describes the atmosphere and surroundings of an object, person, or situation. The reader should have a feeling of involving in this environment. Metaphors and comparison are used in this paragraph).

2.3.        Paragraph № 3 – Sensual and emotional description (The writer uses his senses of taste, touch smell, sound and sight and emotional description in order to make the experience “alive”. Metaphors and comparison are also used here).

• Conclusion. Conclusion reveals the importance of the described things in the essay. It re-frames the thesis statement. It also summarizes an emotional and physical attitude of the writer.

There are some useful pieces of advice for effective structuring essays:

• Select the subject of description.  You may choose a certain experience, a special memory, an interesting place, a thing or an object. You should try to use dominant and specific details. Avoid writing many adjectives and adverbs. Write only the most powerful words;
• Gather all the information related to the topic;
• Use fresh, descriptive words. Do not overload your essay with clichés and idioms;
• Make strong accent on the observation and the descriptions provided by the author.

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Learn the Best Descriptive Essay Structure

Table of Contents

The most common kind of essay is a descriptive one. They are based on the author’s own personal beliefs.

Since this essay type enables students to think broadly, high school students frequently choose a descriptive essay. The writing process for this kind of essay does not, however, necessitate extensive research.

It gives you the freedom to express your ideas however you want. Due to the fact that they verbally describe the senses of touch, taste, hearing, and sight, descriptive essays are quite similar to narrative essays.

In-depth information about the occasion, setting, or incident is provided in a descriptive essay. In today’s guide, we will look at the descriptive essay structure to help you write your own!

What Is a Descriptive Essay?

A descriptive essay is a style of writing where the students are asked to describe a specific subject , such as a person, place, incident, emotion, or event. It is an in-depth description that effectively conjures up an image in the reader’s head using language.

There are various opinions and points of view held by various people. You are able to express your point of view however you like in a descriptive essay. Every element of the subject should be described in detail so that the reader can imagine himself experiencing it firsthand.

A good description will transport the reader to the scene where the event actually takes place. So that the reader is not kept in suspense, you must make every point explicitly. You must master the art of creating a vivid image in the reader’s mind in order to write a perfect descriptive essay. It takes creativity to write a descriptive essay.

A descriptive essay is a type of essay where the student is asked to describe an item, person, place, event, emotion, circumstance, etc. The ability of the student to write an account of a specific experience is encouraged by this genre. Additionally, this genre permits a great deal of artistic freedom (the aim of which is to create a vivid and compelling image in the reader’s mind).

Descriptive Essay Structure

Detailed descriptions of concepts, objects, or subjects are used in descriptive essays. A clear picture in the reader’s mind is what the author hopes to accomplish.

The purpose of a descriptive essay is to arouse the reader’s senses, including touch, hearing, taste, smell, and even imagination. The ability to make you feel like you are a part of the plot using only words is a device that so many well-known authors use. Descriptive writing’s sole goal is to engage the reader’s senses and thoughts.

 Even though essay structures can vary depending on the type of essay you are writing , a descriptive essay generally has three parts: an introduction, a body, and a conclusion. These three components make up every essay’s core structure.

Introduction of the Descriptive Essay

Even when writing essays, first impressions are essential. It is in your best interest to start off on your essay with a solid first impression because as soon as a reader, instructor, or professor picks up your work and begins reading, he performs an assessment of it right from the very first sentence.

Your introduction must be direct, spell out the conditions clearly, and avoid flowery language.

You should introduce the reader to your essay’s subject in the first paragraph. Describe the significance of the item you are describing in the paragraphs that follow so that the reader is aware of what to expect. Then, give some background information on what you will be describing and its significance.

Your thesis should come after that. Your descriptive essay’s thesis statement needs to be brief and direct. It should contain the topic of your description and your motivation for doing so.

Finish the introduction with a thesis statement, which should be one sentence that briefly summarizes the essay’s purpose. The thesis should serve as a summary of the main points to be covered in the body of the essay, similar to a table of contents. You can determine the subject matter of a book by reading its table of contents, and as you read it, you will gain a better understanding of it.

Define the essay’s subject matter; the thesis statement should be specific and easy to understand. Avoid elaborating on your thesis because doing so will confuse the reader about the key points; instead, keep your points brief and precise. You should make your thesis intriguing in order to draw the reader into the essay’s main body.

Main Body Of The Essay

The body is the next section to be read after the introduction and the thesis. The primary component of your essay is the body. There ought to be a discussion of every point. Your thesis statement ought to be backed up by the body.

Create topic sentences to introduce each paragraph. Before you begin to provide descriptions, the idea must be made clear at the outset. Your description to support your idea should come after the topic sentence.

Use effective transitional phrases when joining your paragraphs in descriptive essays. Since conjunctions make up the majority of transition words, you should be able to choose the right ones to fit your explanations. Contradictory conjunctions, like “however,” should be used to join sentences that contradict each other. On the other hand, addition conjunctions, like “in addition to,” should be used when adding to a sentence.’

Make sure your paragraphs are correctly organized; good essay writing is fundamentally about the organization. Each concept needs to be contained in its own paragraph. Additionally, the paragraph length should be consistent; avoid making them too short or too long. There should be no more than six sentences in a body paragraph.

Concluding Your Descriptive Essay

Conclusion is the last paragraph in your descriptive essay. The conclusion is your final opportunity as a writer to leave a lasting impression on the reader. The conclusion of your essay is the last section that the reader will remember about it, and as such, it will also determine what grade level you will receive.

As a result, you must give this section your full attention. Use words that suggest an end, like “to finish with,” to let the reader know they are getting close to the end of your essay.

Simply remind the reader of the essay’s mandated subject matter by restating the thesis statement. Following the reiteration of your thesis, back it up with a summary of the issues made in the body paragraphs.

As evidence for your thesis, you should briefly state the key points without providing much detail. The reader should be left thinking about your essay by your concluding statement, which should be intriguing. After finishing the conclusion, proofread your essay and then review it. It is crucial to proofread your work because it will help you spot errors and keep a positive attitude.

Completing a descriptive essay is a process that requires time and effort, so it’s important to understand how to go about it. Having a good grasp of the descriptive essay structure will help you execute a great essay from start to finish. Now, what is different about a descriptive essay? A descriptive essay is when the primary purpose of the article is to tell a story about a certain event.

We hope you enjoyed our guide on the descriptive essay structure . If you have any more questions, let us know!

Abir Ghenaiet

Abir is a data analyst and researcher. Among her interests are artificial intelligence, machine learning, and natural language processing. As a humanitarian and educator, she actively supports women in tech and promotes diversity.

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