how to read essay prompts

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Effective Writing Assignments

Six parts of an effective prompt.

One of the most common challenges in designing a prompt is determining how much information to include. We recommend that you  limit the information provided on the prompt to the unique requirements for this assignment  and that you provide students with writing guides distinct from the prompt that outline your expectations for different types of assignments and different disciplines.

Of course, the following is just one model for arranging a prompt. We encourage you to adapt it as you see fit to best provide your students with the guidance that will help them produce the kinds of papers you want to read.

1. Articulation of purpose

This section explains the significance of the assignment itself by explaining  what skills students will display in their writing and why they are important.

This section may also identify the  audience  of the assignment. If the assignment has real-world applications (for example, if students are asked to construct a business memo), this section may present students with a scenario that their writing will address.

De Paul Teaching Commons identifies nine of the most common purposes for writing, including encouraging students to engage course material, to develop scholarly skills, and to bridge academic and real world understanding. On their site, they include a helpful  chart  that breaks each of these purposes into smaller goals and suggests which types of writing assignments engage each.

Below is a sample articulation of purpose. You can find the full prompt from which this example is drawn  here .

2. Summary of assignment

Essentially, this is the “thesis statement” of the prompt. Assignment summaries tend to work best when limited to a few sentences in which you provide students with the  genre of the assignment, the most important components of the assignment, and the audience for their paper.

You can find the full prompt from which this example is drawn here .

3. Logistics

This section provides students with the basic information about your requirements,  including the specific length, the due date, the method of submission, formatting requirements, and citation style.

You can find the full prompt from which this example is drawn  here .

4. Key components of the paper or important sections

This is a where you might provide  a brief synopsis of the genre ,  or type of assignment,in which students are writing and  address the types and number of sources they should use . You might also use this space to refer students to a writing guide.

5. Framing questions

This section is designed to  provide students with further guidance . Depending on the type of assignment, you might include either an overview of important sections or framing questions or both. The length of this section will depend on the degree to which you expect students to develop their own framing questions.

6. Evaluation criteria

This section could refer back to your  rubric , but it’s also a good idea to include those general categories on your prompt as well. Precise language is particularly helpful in this section. For examples of alternatives to criteria like “assignment is well-written,” you may want to check out our examples of precise language .

Bonus: References to Resources, Tips for Approaching the Project, Common Missteps & Models

References to resources.

As its name suggests, this section directs students to resources that will help them with their assignment. You might include links to websites or information about library resources available to them, suggestions for visiting the DEWC or departmental tutors, or other useful information.

Tips for Approaching the Project

Perhaps you want students to write their papers in a particular order or take notes in a certain way. By separating that information from the rest of the prompt, you can offer them with an easy way to reference your suggestions.

Common Errors

This can be a particularly helpful section to include – if students in your Business Writing class often lapse into poetic language or students in your Art History class tend to want to make value judgments about the works they’re analyzing, you can warn them off here.

Reproductions

We recommend providing models for writing  in your class throughout the semester. Providing a model of an exemplary paper for students when you distribute the prompt can go a long way toward producing the kind of papers you want to be grading.

Better Assignments.  Writing Center. Yale College. 2014. Web. 1 June 2014. 

Boye, Allison.  How Do I Create Meaningful and Effective Assignments?  Teaching, Learning, and Professional Development Center. Texas Tech University. 2014. 1 June 2014.

Brewster, Glen et al.  Formal Biology Lab Reports.  Writer’s Guide. Westfield State College. Web. 1 June 2014. 

Creating Effective Assignments.  Center for Excellence in Teaching and Learning. University of New Hampshire. 2004. Web. 1 June 2014.

Gardner, Traci.  Ten Tips for Designing Writing Assignments.  Pedablogical. 2001. Web. 1 June 2014.

Gately, Maeve.  Writing an Art History Paper.  Writing Resources. Hamilton College Writing Center. 2014. Web. 1 June 2014.

Guidelines for Analysis of Art .  Department of Art. University of Arkansas at Little Rock. n.d. Web. 1 June 2014.

Jehn, Tom, and Jane Rosenweig.  Writing in the Disciplines: Advice and Models: Supplement to accompany Diana Hacker’s A Writer’s Reference, Sixth Edition.  Boston: Bedford St. Martin’s. 2007.

Matching Learning Goals to Assignment Types.  De Paul Teaching Commons. DePaul University. n.d. Web. 1 June 2014.

Pop, Andrei.  How to Do Things with Pictures: A Guide for Writing in Art History. Disciplinary Writing Guides. Harvard Writing Project. 2008. Web. 1 June 2014.

Writing Assignments . Center for Teaching and Learning. Hobart and William Smith Colleges. 2014. Web. 1 June 2014.

What Is a Prompt in Writing? (Ultimate Guide + 200 Examples)

Ever stumbled upon a blank page and didn’t know where to start?

That’s where a writing prompt steps in, kicking your creativity into gear and guiding your pen (or cursor) in the right direction.

What is a prompt in writing?

A prompt in writing is a starting point designed to ignite creativity, guiding writers to explore themes, genres, or emotions. It can be a word, question, image, or scenario, aiding in overcoming writer’s block.

Keep reading to learn everything you need to know about prompts in writing.

What Is a Prompt in Writing (Long Description)?

Table of Contents

A writing prompt is essentially a starting point.

Think of it as a spark designed to ignite your creativity and guide your thoughts in a specific direction.

This little nudge can come in various forms – a word, a sentence, a question, or even a picture – and serves the purpose of inspiring you to write.

Whether you’re drafting a story, an essay, or just jotting down your thoughts, prompts help overcome the intimidation of a blank page.

It sets a predefined theme or direction for your writing.

They’re not just about what you write, but how you think and approach writing, encouraging you to explore new ideas, genres, and perspectives.

Here is a good video that explains prompts in writing:

Types of Prompts in Writing

Now let’s go over different types of prompts in writing.

Common prompt types include:

The Story Starter

The question quest, picture this, the first line frenzy.

The Story Starter is your classic nudge towards narrative creativity.

It’s a sentence or scenario meant to kick off your storytelling journey, helping you dive straight into the plot, characters, or setting.

This type of prompt is great for fiction writers looking for a jumping-off point to explore various themes or genres.

It can be as detailed or as open-ended as you like, providing just enough information to spark an idea without dictating the direction of your story.

• “When the clock struck midnight, she realized…”
• “Lost in the forest, he stumbled upon a hidden village…”
• “The last person on Earth sat alone in a room. Suddenly, there was a knock at the door…”
• “In a world where magic is real, a young apprentice discovers…”
• “The photograph in the old book revealed a secret that would change everything…”
• “Stranded on a desert island, they found a message in a bottle…”
• “On her hundredth birthday, she received a letter that took her back to her youth…”
• “The map led them to a place that wasn’t supposed to exist…”
• “In the midst of war, a forbidden love blossomed…”
• “He inherited an old mansion, not knowing the ancestors would still be around…”

The Question Quest prompt type uses intriguing questions to push your thinking boundaries and explore ideas in depth.

It’s perfect for essays, reflective writing, or exploring complex themes and issues.

These prompts challenge you to consider different perspectives, analyze situations, and develop reasoned arguments or narratives based on the question posed.

• “What would you do if you could travel back in time?”
• “How would society change if humans lived to be 300 years old?”
• “Is it possible to live a completely ethical life in today’s world?”
• “What does true bravery look like?”
• “How would the discovery of extraterrestrial life impact humanity?”
• “What is the true cost of progress?”
• “Can happiness be measured?”
• “What role does fate play in our lives?”
• “Is technology bringing us closer together or driving us apart?”
• “What would you change if you were the leader of your country for a day?”

Picture This prompts use images as the springboard for writing.

A photograph, painting, or even a random doodle can unlock a flood of creativity.

Which makes it an excellent tool for both fiction and non-fiction writers.

This visual cue encourages you to dive into descriptive writing, storytelling, or even analytical essays, exploring the emotions, stories, or ideas evoked by the image.

• A deserted street at dawn, with an old bicycle leaning against a lamppost.
• A vintage suitcase, open and filled with letters and photographs.
• A bustling market scene in a foreign country.
• A child gazing out of a rain-spattered window.
• A majestic mountain range under the stars.
• An abandoned house, its rooms still furnished but covered in dust.
• A close-up of a spider web with dewdrops.
• A lively street festival, with people dancing and musicians playing.
• An old, faded map with several places marked in red.
• A serene lake at sunset, with a lone boat tied to a wooden dock.

The First Line Frenzy is a thrilling way to dive into a story.

These prompts provide the opening sentence of your narrative, setting the tone and direction for everything that follows.

It’s a fantastic method for overcoming writer’s block and sparking your imagination, as the initial line can lead to unexpected and exciting story developments.

• “The day began with a mysterious package on my doorstep.”
• “I never believed in ghosts until I moved into the old Henderson house.”
• “The moment I heard the news, I knew my life would never be the same.”
• “Under the light of a full moon, the city revealed its true secrets.”
• “It was the kind of café you’d stumble upon once and never find again.”
• “With a deep breath, I stepped into the unknown.”
• “The letter, sealed with a wax emblem, contained a proposition I couldn’t refuse.”
• “As the train pulled away, she realized her mistake.”
• “In the heart of the ancient forest, a hidden path led to unexpected wonders.”
• “The discovery promised to rewrite history, but at what cost?”

Dialogue Driven

Dialogue Driven prompts center around a snippet of conversation, offering a dynamic entry point into your writing.

This approach is particularly effective for character development and exploring relationships through direct speech.

It can set the scene, reveal personalities, and drive the plot forward, all through the power of dialogue.

• “Did you really think I wouldn’t find out?” “I was hoping.”
• “Why is this door always locked?” “You’re not ready to know what’s behind it.”
• “Just because you can, doesn’t mean you should.” “That’s where you’re wrong.”
• “The stars look different here.” “Everything does.”
• “I wish I could stay.” “Then why are you leaving?”
• “It’s not about what I want anymore.” “Then what’s it about?”
• “I’ve never seen anything like it.” “And you never will again.”
• “Can you keep a secret?” “Depends on the secret.”
• “We’re not in Kansas anymore.” “We’re not even on the same planet.”
• “It was supposed to be a simple plan.” “Since when does anything go according to plan?”

The Sensory Dive

The Sensory Dive prompts are designed to immerse you and your reader in vivid, sensory-rich experiences.

These prompts encourage descriptive writing that appeals to the senses, painting a scene so tangible that readers feel they can touch, taste, hear, see, and smell it.

It’s a powerful tool for creating immersive worlds and experiences.

• Describe the cacophony of a bustling city market at noon.
• The taste of the first snowflake of winter.
• The scent of old books in a forgotten library.
• The feeling of sand between your toes as waves crash on the shore.
• The sight of a landscape transformed by autumn’s touch.
• The sound of a distant thunderstorm approaching.
• The warmth of a crackling fire on a cold night.
• The chill of walking through a foggy graveyard at dusk.
• The texture of an ancient, carved stone.
• The silence of a snow-covered forest.

The What-If Wonder

The What-If Wonder prompts take you on a journey of imagination, exploring alternate realities and scenarios.

These prompts ask you to consider how different choices, events, or conditions might alter the world, characters, or story.

It’s an excellent way to delve into speculative fiction, science fiction, and fantasy, pushing the boundaries of reality.

• What if humans had the ability to communicate telepathically?
• What if gravity suddenly became a variable force on Earth?
• What if you woke up 100 years in the past with your current memories intact?
• What if plants were the dominant intelligent species on the planet?
• What if you could see the future but only 24 hours ahead?
• What if water was as rare as gold?
• What if everyone had their lifespan displayed above their heads?
• What if you found a door that could take you to parallel universes?
• What if animals could petition for their rights?
• What if dreams were actually glimpses into alternate realities?

The Emotional Rollercoaster

The Emotional Rollercoaster prompt is all about exploring the depths of human emotion, challenging you to convey complex feelings and reactions.

These prompts are perfect for delving into character development, interpersonal relationships, and personal reflection.

By focusing on the emotional landscape, writers can create compelling narratives that resonate with readers on a deeply personal level.

• The moment you realized you were in love.
• Feeling utterly lost in a place you once called home.
• The bitter sweetness of a farewell.
• Overcoming a fear that once held you back.
• The complex emotions of reuniting with someone after many years.
• The guilt of a lie that spiraled out of control.
• The rush of achieving something you thought was impossible.
• The profound sadness of losing a cherished memory to time.
• The unexpected joy found in a simple act of kindness.
• The peace of accepting things you cannot change.

The Genre Blender

The Genre Blender prompts encourage you to mix elements from different genres, creating unique and innovative narratives.

These prompts are excellent for writers looking to break the mold and experiment with their storytelling.

Whether it’s combining science fiction with historical fiction or fantasy with mystery, the possibilities are endless.

• A detective in a dystopian future solving a crime that could change the course of history.
• A romance blossoming in the midst of a zombie apocalypse.
• A fantasy world where magic is dying, and technology is on the rise.
• A historical drama set in ancient Rome, but with a twist of time travel.
• A horror story set in space, aboard a ship with a mysterious alien artifact.
• A western where the frontier towns are protected by wizards instead of gunslingers.
• A cyberpunk thriller featuring a heist in a virtual reality world.
• A mystery set in a magical school where the students must uncover a dark secret.
• A superhero story grounded in the real-world challenges of modern society.
• An adventure tale that blends deep-sea exploration with ancient mythology.

The Time Traveler’s Gateway

The Time Traveler’s Gateway prompts explore the intricacies of time travel, its implications, and its paradoxes.

This type of prompt is perfect for science fiction and speculative fiction writers, offering a playground for the imagination that challenges our understanding of time, history, and causality.

• Discovering a time machine in your backyard and deciding where to go first.
• A message from the future warning of an impending disaster.
• The consequences of changing a small event in the past.
• A society where time travel is common, but strictly regulated.
• An ancient civilization that had advanced time travel technology.
• Meeting your ancestors and learning their secrets.
• The ethical dilemmas of using time travel for personal gain.
• A love story that transcends time barriers.
• The discovery that history is a construct, shaped by time travelers.
• A time loop where the protagonist must solve a puzzle to escape.

The World Builder’s Dream

The World Builder’s Dream prompts invite you to create entire worlds from scratch.

This type of prompt is a boon for fantasy and science fiction writers, offering the freedom to craft unique settings, cultures, laws of nature, and societies.

It’s an opportunity to let your imagination run wild and establish the groundwork for epic tales.

• A planet where the seasons last for decades.
• A city built entirely on the back of a giant, wandering creature.
• A society where people’s roles are determined by their innate magical abilities.
• An underwater civilization that has never seen the surface.
• A world where dreams can be entered and manipulated.
• A floating island nation that travels the skies.
• A dystopian future where memories can be bought and sold.
• A kingdom where music is the source of all magic.
• A realm where the night lasts half the year.
• An alternate Earth where the continents never split apart.

The Unseen Perspective

The Unseen Perspective prompts challenge you to write from the viewpoint of non-human characters or entities.

This approach forces you to step outside the human experience and consider the world from a completely different angle.

It’s a fantastic way to explore themes of consciousness, nature, and the interconnectedness of life.

• The life of a tree over centuries, witnessing the changes in the world.
• A day in the life of a household pet during a major family event.
• The thoughts of a spaceship AI as it travels through the cosmos.
• The experiences of a ghost haunting an old mansion.
• A story told from the perspective of a river, from source to sea.
• The journey of a single leaf from sprout to falling to the ground.
• The collective consciousness of a hive of bees facing environmental challenges.
• The ancient spirit of a mountain overseeing its surroundings.
• The adventures of a book as it passes from reader to reader, experiencing different interpretations and emotions.
• The perspective of a city as it grows and evolves over centuries, through peace and conflict.

The Emotional Journey

The Emotional Journey prompts focus on the internal growth and transformation of characters.

It invites writers to delve into personal development, self-discovery, and the overcoming of obstacles.

This type of prompt is ideal for character-driven narratives, where the emphasis is on emotional depth and the evolution of the protagonist’s inner self.

• A character grappling with the loss of a loved one and finding a way to move forward.
• The journey of self-acceptance for someone who feels out of place in their world.
• A hero facing their darkest fears in order to save what they cherish most.
• A villain’s realization of the impact of their actions and their quest for redemption.
• A young adult’s transition into independence and the challenges they face along the way.
• The transformation of a skeptic into a believer through a series of unexplainable events.
• The struggle of a character to forgive themselves and others for past mistakes.
• The process of rebuilding one’s life after a catastrophic event.
• A character’s journey from indifference to passionate advocacy for a cause.
• The evolving relationship between two characters who start as rivals and become allies.

The Moral Dilemma

The Moral Dilemma prompts put characters in situations where they must make difficult choices, often between two equally undesirable options.

These prompts are great for exploring ethical questions, character morality, and the complexity of human nature.

They challenge writers to think deeply about what it means to make a “right” decision.

• Choosing between saving a loved one or a group of strangers from danger.
• Deciding whether to expose a painful truth that could destroy a friend’s happiness.
• The choice of upholding the law or doing what is morally right in a corrupt society.
• A character must decide whether to seek revenge or forgive an unforgivable act.
• The dilemma of sacrificing personal dreams for the greater good.
• Deciding whether to keep a secret that protects one person but harms others.
• A leader’s choice between peace at the cost of justice or war for the sake of freedom.
• The ethical implications of using advanced technology to alter human nature.
• A scientist faces a moral conflict over a discovery that could change the world but has dangerous implications.
• The struggle of a character who finds out that their entire life is based on a lie and must choose how to react.

The Creative Challenge

The Creative Challenge prompts are designed to push the boundaries of conventional storytelling.

It encourages experimentation with narrative structure, style, and content.

These prompts invite writers to play with unconventional formats, such as a story told in reverse, a narrative composed entirely of dialogue, or a tale that weaves multiple perspectives into a cohesive whole.

• A story told through a series of diary entries, each revealing a piece of the puzzle.
• A narrative structured as a series of text messages between characters.
• A tale that begins with its conclusion and works backward to the start.
• A story where each chapter is from the perspective of a different character, all revolving around a single event.
• A narrative composed entirely of letters sent between two characters.
• A story told through the lens of an inanimate object witnessing events unfold.
• A tale that intertwines the past and present, revealing how they mirror and affect each other.
• A narrative that challenges the concept of linear time, mixing moments from various points in the characters’ lives.
• A story where the setting changes in each chapter, influencing the plot and characters in unique ways.
• A narrative that plays with genre conventions, blending elements from different genres in unexpected ways.

Final Thoughts: What Is a Prompt in Writing?

I hope this guide “prompts” you to understanding, creativity, and motivation to write.

Check out some of our other great guides below.

Read This Next:

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Want to create or adapt books like this? Learn more about how Pressbooks supports open publishing practices.

IV. Tips for Writing Prompts

Writing prompts: the instructions.

A writing prompt in WRIT will ask you to consider the same set of questions each week. The prompt instructions remind you that there are three very important components that should be included in your response for optimal success. Below are the standard prompt instructions that you’ll see each week in WRIT:

Your Task: compose a critical response essay—including, ideally, an introduction, at least three body paragraphs, and a conclusion—to the text below

Goals: your essay should include the following:

• A brief summary of the author’s argument
• mostly agree with the author and provide your own persuasive assertions that extend support for the author’s position
• mostly disagree with the author and provide your own persuasive assertions that defend your counter-position
• Your refutation of at least one objection a reader might have to your argument (or any point therein)

Failing to address each of these goals will significantly reduce your ability to respond appropriately and completely to the prompt.  Don’t worry, though! In WRIT, you’ll learn how to respond to each of the requirements listed in the instructions above; it will just take a bit of time and practice.

Prompt Writing Guide

When you study a writing prompt closely and use it as the basis for your outline, you will be better equipped to address the goals of your own response.  It’s important to do the following when reading and responding to a prompt:

Putting the Pieces Together Copyright © 2020 by Andrew M. Stracuzzi and André Cormier is licensed under a Creative Commons Attribution-NonCommercial-ShareAlike 4.0 International License , except where otherwise noted.

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Understanding writing prompts

Contributor: Aaron Smale

For many college papers, a prompt will ask questions related to readings and class discussion, asking you to demonstrate analysis and discussion of the topic. Decoding what a prompt is asking can sometimes be overwhelming. The sooner you understand a prompt, the sooner you can start writing. Here are some useful tips to understand writing prompts:

As soon as you receive the prompt, read through it twice:

• Though many prompts are complex to encourage well-reasoned responses, they can be confusing/inaccessible if read only once before drafting. Reading the prompt as soon as possible may help you identify how long a paper should be, how much information you should gather, and can reveal concepts you need to understand before approaching the assignment.

Once you have read the prompt, try to share out what you think the prompt means to a friend, family member, or another student:

• This helps to “check” if your understanding of the prompt matches that of other people outside of the class and may help to identify what you still need to know.

Key words can identify the type of assignment that the prompt is calling for :

• Most prompts signal if the paper is expected to be a compare-and-contrast paper, rhetorical analysis, synthesis paper, etc. Keywords may include terms such as compare, synthesize, develop, explore, etc.

Come back to the prompt and highlight key characteristics, terms, and phrases relevant to the topic/assignment and compare it to course notes/assignments:

• When reviewing the prompt, highlight terms or phrases that have come up frequently in discussion or are significant in the course. You may also choose to highlight terms in the prompt that you need to study more. Sometimes a prompt asks you to recall resources or texts from an earlier point in the course, so a review of key sources, topics, course notes or related assignments can help you to write an effective paper. Additionally, this reveals key scenes or text sections identified within the prompt.

Look for language in the prompt that indicates who the target audience is:

• Even though your audience will often include your professor and peers, some prompts for research papers and essays will ask you to address other target audiences. For example, a paper that discusses a new method of patient support may cite a hospital board of directors as a potential audience. By identifying your target audience, you can establish context necessary for your audience to engage with your paper.

Prepare questions for discussion to ask your TA or professor regarding parts of the prompt that are unclear:

• Once you have gone through the prompt itself, make a list of questions to discuss with your professor or TA so you can get more clarity on the assignment.

• Writing Worksheets and Other Writing Resources
• Pre Writing/ Developing a Topic

Figuring Out What to Write: When you DO Have a Prompt

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• Read the essay prompt once through to get the general idea.
• Read the prompt again while armed with a highlighter or colored pen. Mark the parts of the prompt that look important. Look for both content directions (compare two novels, identify a significant theme) and formatting directions (must be 5 pages in length double spaced).
• In the space provided below, or on another sheet of paper, please summarize the prompt:

What is the prompt asking you to do?

What are some formatting directions the prompt gives you?

And just for good measure, where and when is the paper due?  

• Now that you have a clearer idea of what the prompt is asking you to do, go back to your texts, scan your lecture notes or any handouts your professor gave you looking for material, quotes, or anything that would help you answer the questions that the prompt poses.
• List a few page numbers that seem to address each part of the prompt. Start writing some notes about how these quotes address the prompt.

Now you’re off to a great start!

As you write your paper, keep returning back to your version of the prompt and your actual prompt in order to make sure that you are answering every aspect of the prompt.

Jennifer Nishizaki (adapted from Valine Moreno, “Huh? Deconstructing and Attacking an Essay Prompt,” Student Learning Center, University of California, Berkeley, ©2006 UC Regents) Student Learning Center, University of California, Berkeley ©2009 UC Regents

  This work is licensed under a Creative Commons Attribution-NonCommercial-NoDerivs 3.0 Unported License.

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Gen ed writes, writing across the disciplines at harvard college, unpacking the elements of writing prompts.

What you learn in Expos courses about how to use a prompt

Most assignment prompts in Expos ask students to write in a specific genre (single-source analysis, comparative analysis, lens/test a theory, research essay, capstone presentation), while using specific sources, writing for specific audiences, using specific styles, and so on. In addition, the prompts for major assignments break the writing process down into smaller steps, such as response papers, drafts, and revisions (and maybe intermediary steps, e.g., annotated bibliographies or proposals).

The stable vocabulary students learn in Expos to communicate about writing—in prompts, workshops, conferences, and written feedback—is The Elements of Academic Argument , and the elements you see here in the left sidebar are drawn directly from that same list of terms. Click on any of the elements in the sidebar for an overview of why they're important and how to recognize them when you see them in a prompt.  

Skills that transfer beyond Expos 

Knowing how to unpack the elements of a writing prompt and break the writing process down into more manageable steps is immensely valuable, and a lot of the practice you get with this in Expos will translate directly into other courses. That being said, some prompts need more "decoding" than others to unpack everything, and it's maybe been a while since you've done it (or maybe you're in your first term and haven't taken Expos). No worries: the  assignment prompt decoder exercise will walk you through the process of unpacking and breaking down just about any writing prompt.

• DIY Guides for Analytical Writing Assignments

• Types of Assignments
• Evidence and Analysis
• Style and Conventions
• Specific Guidelines
• Advice on Process
• Receiving Feedback

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Over 170 Prompts to Inspire Writing and Discussion

Here are all of our Student Opinion questions from the 2020-21 school year. Each question is based on a different New York Times article, interactive feature or video.

By The Learning Network

Each school day we publish a new Student Opinion question, and students use these writing prompts to reflect on their experiences and identities and respond to current events unfolding around them. To introduce each question, we provide an excerpt from a related New York Times article or Opinion piece as well as a free link to the original article.

During the 2020-21 school year, we asked 176 questions, and you can find them all below or here as a PDF . The questions are divided into two categories — those that provide opportunities for debate and persuasive writing, and those that lend themselves to creative, personal or reflective writing.

Teachers can use these prompts to help students practice narrative and persuasive writing, start classroom debates and even spark conversation between students around the world via our comments section. For more ideas on how to use our Student Opinion questions, we offer a short tutorial along with a nine-minute video on how one high school English teacher and her students use this feature .

Questions for Debate and Persuasive Writing

1. Should Athletes Speak Out On Social and Political Issues? 2. Should All Young People Learn How to Invest in the Stock Market? 3. What Are the Greatest Songs of All Time? 4. Should There Be More Gender Options on Identification Documents? 5. Should We End the Practice of Tipping? 6. Should There Be Separate Social Media Apps for Children? 7. Do Marriage Proposals Still Have a Place in Today’s Society? 8. How Do You Feel About Cancel Culture? 9. Should the United States Decriminalize the Possession of Drugs? 10. Does Reality TV Deserve Its Bad Rap? 11. Should the Death Penalty Be Abolished? 12. How Should Parents Support a Student Who Has Fallen Behind in School? 13. When Is It OK to Be a Snitch? 14. Should People Be Required to Show Proof of Vaccination? 15. How Much Have You and Your Community Changed Since George Floyd’s Death? 16. Can Empathy Be Taught? Should Schools Try to Help Us Feel One Another’s Pain? 17. Should Schools or Employers Be Allowed to Tell People How They Should Wear Their Hair? 18. Is Your Generation Doing Its Part to Strengthen Our Democracy? 19. Should Corporations Take Political Stands? 20. Should We Rename Schools Named for Historical Figures With Ties to Racism, Sexism or Slavery? 21. How Should Schools Hold Students Accountable for Hurting Others? 22. What Ideas Do You Have to Improve Your Favorite Sport? 23. Are Presidential Debates Helpful to Voters? Or Should They Be Scrapped? 24. Is the Electoral College a Problem? Does It Need to Be Fixed? 25. Do You Care Who Sits on the Supreme Court? Should We Care? 26. Should Museums Return Looted Artifacts to Their Countries of Origin? 27. Should Schools Provide Free Pads and Tampons? 28. Should Teachers Be Allowed to Wear Political Symbols? 29. Do You Think People Have Gotten Too Relaxed About Covid? 30. Who Do You Think Should Be Person of the Year for 2020? 31. How Should Racial Slurs in Literature Be Handled in the Classroom? 32. Should There Still Be Snow Days? 33. What Are Your Reactions to the Storming of the Capitol by a Pro-Trump Mob? 34. What Do You Think of the Decision by Tech Companies to Block President Trump? 35. If You Were a Member of Congress, Would You Vote to Impeach President Trump? 36. What Would You Do First if You Were the New President? 37. Who Do You Hope Will Win the 2020 Presidential Election? 38. Should Media Literacy Be a Required Course in School? 39. What Are Your Reactions to the Results of Election 2020? Where Do We Go From Here? 40. How Should We Remember the Problematic Actions of the Nation’s Founders? 41. As Coronavirus Cases Surge, How Should Leaders Decide What Stays Open and What Closes? 42. What Is Your Reaction to the Inauguration of Joe Biden and Kamala Harris? 43. How Worried Should We Be About Screen Time During the Pandemic? 44. Should Schools Be Able to Discipline Students for What They Say on Social Media? 45. What Works of Art, Culture and Technology Flopped in 2020? 46. How Do You Feel About Censored Music? 47. Why Do You Think ‘Drivers License’ Became Such a Smash Hit? 48. Justice Ginsburg Fought for Gender Equality. How Close Are We to Achieving That Goal? 49. How Well Do You Think Our Leaders Have Responded to the Coronavirus Crisis? 50. To What Extent Is the Legacy of Slavery and Racism Still Present in America in 2020? 51. How Should We Reimagine Our Schools So That All Students Receive a Quality Education? 52. How Concerned Do You Think We Should Be About the Integrity of the 2020 Election? 53. What Issues in This Election Season Matter Most to You? 54. Is Summer School a Smart Way to Make Up for Learning Lost This School Year? 55. What Is Your Reaction to the Senate’s Acquittal of Former President Trump? 56. What Is the Worst Toy Ever? 57. How Should We Balance Safety and Urgency in Developing a Covid-19 Vaccine? 58. What Are Your Reactions to Oprah’s Interview With Harry and Meghan? 59. Should the Government Provide a Guaranteed Income for Families With Children? 60. Should There Be More Public Restrooms? 61. Should High School-Age Basketball Players Be Able to Get Paid? 62. Should Team Sports Happen This Year? 63. Who Are the Best Musical Artists of the Past Year? What Are the Best Songs? 64. Should We Cancel Student Debt? 65. How Closely Should Actors’ Identities Reflect the Roles They Play? 66. Should White Writers Translate a Black Author’s Work? 67. Would You Buy an NFT? 68. Should Kids Still Learn to Tell Time? 69. Should All Schools Teach Financial Literacy? 70. What Is Your Reaction to the Verdict in the Derek Chauvin Trial? 71. What Is the Best Way to Stop Abusive Language Online? 72. What Are the Underlying Systems That Hold a Society Together? 73. What Grade Would You Give President Biden on His First 100 Days? 74. Should High Schools Post Their Annual College Lists? 75. Are C.E.O.s Paid Too Much? 76. Should We Rethink Thanksgiving? 77. What Is the Best Way to Get Teenagers Vaccinated? 78. Do You Want Your Parents and Grandparents to Get the New Coronavirus Vaccine? 79. What Is Your Reaction to New Guidelines That Loosen Mask Requirements? 80. Who Should We Honor on Our Money? 81. Is Your School’s Dress Code Outdated? 82. Does Everyone Have a Responsibility to Vote? 83. How Is Your Generation Changing Politics?

Questions for Creative and Personal Writing

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Purdue Online Writing Lab Purdue OWL® College of Liberal Arts

Writing in Literature: Writing the Prompt Paper

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Whether you are given a selection of prompts to choose from or just one, knowing something about the various sorts of writing prompts can help you understand what your teacher expects and how you should approach the project.

“Compare and Contrast”

This classic writing prompt can be quite challenging because it sounds almost as if you are being asked to compile a list of similarities and differences. While a list might be of use in the planning stage, this prompt asks you to use what you discover to arrive at a conclusion about the two works under discussion.

Example: “Compare and contrast the two endings for Dickens’ Great Expectations paying special attention to the situation of Stella at the close of the novel.”

• Find three or four elements from the texts upon which to base your comparison.
• Examine possible connections and determine a thesis.
• Base your outline around the elements you’ve chosen, remembering to give equal coverage to each side.

“Discuss the theme of x as it appears in works a, b, and c.”

This is an extended or re-named compare and contrast prompt. In this situation, you are given a general theme, such as “loss of innocence” or “self-revelation.” Your job is to use the instances of that theme to arrive at some general conclusions regarding how the theme works in the text you are analyzing.

Example: “Discuss the ways in which Shakespeare talks about the passing of time in three of the sonnets we read for class.”

• Re-read carefully the selected works looking specifically for the theme or motif in question. Then research the ways in which other critics have examined this theme.
• Determine your argument. Will you make a claim for similarity (“A, b, and c use x in much the same way.”), difference (“A, b, and c, when dealing with x, take highly individual approaches.”), or superiority (“While a and b deal with x, c clearly demonstrates a richer, more nuanced treatment.”)?
• Organize your paper around the works, making each point deal thoroughly with a discrete work. Remember that connections are of the utmost importance for this paper, so pay close attention to your transitions.

“What is the role of women/the role of class/the role of the Other as presented in this work?”

All three examples above serve as first steps to the larger world of literary theory and criticism. Writing prompts like this ask you to examine a work from a particular perspective. You may not be comfortable with this new perspective. Chances are that since your instructor has given you such an assignment, the issues in question will be at least partially covered in class.

Example: “Discuss the ways in which the outsider or Other is dealt with in James Joyce’s story “The Dead.”

• Categorize the persons or characters in the piece. What are they in the most general, stereotypical way? Male or female? Lower or upper class? Natives or foreigners? Strangers or friends?
• Examine the ways in which the characters you’ve categorized fit or don’t fit into the boxes you’ve assigned them. Do they support or undermine the categories, and what do others (including the author) say about them and their place in the world?
• Write your paper as if you were giving a new definition (or an amended definition)of the category in question using the text as your guide. Your main points should highlight the ways in which the text uses or discards the accepted categories.

“Critic A has famously said “B” about this work. In light of our study of the piece in question, would you agree or disagree, why or why not?”

This sort of question is often asked as an in-class essay, but can appear as a prompt for larger papers. The goal of a question like this is to give you the opportunity to deal with the critical voices of others in your own writings.

Example: “C.S. Lewis has said that Chaucer is “our foremost poet of joy” in the English language, and in this field he “has few equals and no masters.” Discuss how this applies to the ending of “The Knight’s Tale” from The Canterbury Tales.”

• Read and re-read the quote from the prompt several times. Ask yourself what seems to be the quote’s central claim.
• Apply that claim to the relevant passage or work. In a way, you are being asked not to examine the literature so much as the claim about the literature. Does it hold up to scrutiny in light of the actual text?
• Your instructor would be equally pleased whether you agree or disagree with the critic’s views as long as you do so in a scholarly fashion. Structure your paper around the claims made by the quote and use lines from the text to support your own reaction.

• teaching writing

How to Help Students in 4-5 Analyze a Writing Prompt

Analyzing a writing prompt is the first lesson I teach in the writing process to write an essay. As teachers, we know if our students skip this prewriting step, there's a high chance their essay will be off-topic. 

Imagine a student writing an essay with all the writing components, such as text evidence and elaboration , only to receive a zero because it didn't address the question or go off on a tangent. Heartbreaking, right? 

No longer are the days when fourth or fifth-grade students answer a simple essay prompt. With standardized testing and the push to get students college and career-ready, this has all changed. 

Writing prompts are more elaborate and extensive. Some writing prompts no longer end with question marks. That's why analyzing a writing prompt by breaking it down into manageable steps ensures student's responses are on task.

 In this blog post, you will find four easy steps to teach your students to analyze these tricky writing prompts.

Table of Contents

How to Analyze a Writing Prompt

Step 1: Read the Writing Prompt

So, the first step in understanding a writing prompt is reading the prompt. Here, students look at words related to the topic, including key vocabulary words or words they might be unfamiliar with. 

After reading the prompt, students need to identify the main topic of their essay by circling it. 

If you're introducing students to analyzing writing prompts for the first time, providing multiple examples of writing prompts they might encounter is helpful.

Step 2: Find the Task

After reading, students look for key words that indicate the task to underline. The task refers to the type of essay they will be writing and contributes to their understanding of the task. Students can be asked to explain a topic, argue a point, or tell a story.

To find the task, students look for the words “expository,” “argumentative,” or “narrative” to hint at the task or purpose of the essay.

A common challenge students might have is interpreting terms such as “expository,” “argumentative,” or “narrative.”

To understand the task, explain to students that for an expository prompt, the primary purpose is to provide information on a topic, while an argumentative prompt involves taking a stance and defending it, and a narrative prompt focuses on telling a story.

To help with these difficulties, give students many chances to practice, explain task words clearly, and show them different examples.

Step 3: Write the Question

Now that they know the type of essay they will write, they need to identify the question.

Clarify that there are various types of writing prompts. Specifically, in standardized assessments, the writing prompts can all be written as a statement and not include the traditional question that ends with a question mark. 

If this is the case, students must flip that around and turn a statement into a question. Often, the question hides at the end in lengthy writing prompts, as seen in the example above.

Here is an example of the format of a text-dependent writing prompt:  “Both passages were about butterflies. Write an expository essay explaining the effects butterflies have in a garden.”  

First, ask students to search for verbs. Examples of verbs in a writing prompt are words such as explain, describe, write, or tell. Then, have students identify the main idea or concept in the writing prompt. 

In the example above, the verb is “write,” and the topic is butterfly. Guide students to uncover the question by asking, “Write what about butterflies?” At this point, many students can identify the question within the writing prompt. 

The next step involves rephrasing their response as a question in their own words. One way to do this is by adding words associated with questions such as who, what, when, where, and how to help transform their response into a straightforward question.

If students need help generating a question, start with shorter statements and gradually move to more complex ones. You can also practice with different writing prompt examples from various contexts and subjects. Analyze them together, turning each into a question.

Now armed with the question, students are prepared for the last step.

Step 4: Pick a Text Structure

By having the question, students need to identify the text structure to help them plan. Remind them that all authors use specific text structures to arrange their thoughts. 

In this step, guide students in choosing one of the five text structures that suit their response to organize their ideas. The text structure they select will become the framework for their planning sheet and help them write their thesis statement. 

There are five structures students can choose from: problem and solution, cause and effect, comparing contrast, sequence, or description – the same ones discussed during reading instruction.

Ask students to underline keywords that hint towards the structure. In the butterfly writing prompt example, “effect” is a keyword to indicate cause and effect.  

Identifying text structure can be tricky for students because it involves understanding how information is organized in a passage. Some common challenges include recognizing keywords that hint at the structure and choosing the right structure for a given topic.

Here are some strategies to help students identify keywords when selecting a text structure to write in:

•  Teach students to recognize specific signal words that often accompany particular text structures. For instance, “cause” and “effect” signal a cause-and-effect structure.
• Provide students with various examples of writing prompts for each text structure. Analyze them together to identify recurring keywords related to each text structure.
• Model the process of identifying keywords by thinking aloud. Show how you read a prompt and pick out words that suggest a specific text structure.
• Have students compare and contrast writing prompts of different structures. Discuss the language used in each and help them discern patterns.
•  Practice identifying keywords during a small group session before gradually moving towards independent practice.
• Encourage reflection on why certain words indicate a particular text structure.

Teaching Tips to Analyze Writing Prompts

To help students grasp the steps in analyzing essay writing prompts, consider these practical teaching tips:

• Use the I do, we do, you do teaching model to practice analyzing a writing prompt. 
• At the beginning, practice analyzing writing prompts without the pressure of writing a response. This practice phase is crucial for building confidence.
• Stay consistent in the language used to model each step of analyzing a writing prompt.
• Create an anchor chart with the four steps to analyze a writing prompt for students to refer to as needed. 
• Analyze previous writing prompts for students to practice analyzing a writing prompt.
• Demonstrate the importance of careful reading, task identification, and identifying a text structure each time you come across a writing prompt. 
• Deliver specific feedback by addressing individual steps as they analyze the writing prompt. This targeted approach reinforces comprehension and refines their skills.

Key Takeaways

Wrapping it up, remember that analyzing writing prompts is a crucial prewriting stage, laying the foundation for a strong, on-point essay. Skipping this step can lead to essays going off-track, and we don't want that for our students!

Encourage students to use the four steps mentioned: read, task, question, and text structure to break down a writing prompt into manageable chunks.

By incorporating these practical tips and activities, students can develop a robust foundation in analyzing writing prompts and empowering them to approach any writing task confidently.

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20+ Narrative Essay Prompts

by Sue Weems | 0 comments

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If you're practicing your personal essay skills or just storytelling in general, these narrative essay prompts are a great way to get started!

What is narrative writing?

Narrative essays are a unique form of writing that allows authors to tell their personal stories, weaving personal experiences into a cohesive and engaging format. Unlike traditional essays that focus on analysis or argumentation, narrative essays emphasize storytelling, often emphasizing emotions, character development, and vivid imagery. The aim is to transport readers into the writer's world, offering them insights into personal beliefs, values, or lessons learned through real-life situations.

At the heart of a narrative essay is a central theme or message that resonates throughout the narrative. This theme serves as a guiding thread, connecting various events, emotions, and characters.

In this article, we'll explore various narrative essay ideas designed to spark creativity and inspire writers to delve into their experiences. Whether you're a student looking for a writing assignment or a seasoned writer seeking new material, these prompts will help ignite your imagination and shape compelling narratives.

If you're looking for a step-by-step guide on how to write a personal narrative essay , check out our comprehensive guide here .

Narrative Essay Prompts

• Describe a time when a seemingly trivial decision led to an unexpected adventure that changed your perspective on life.
• Write about the moment you realized that you had become just like one of your parents, and how it made you feel.
• Reflect on a mistake you made that spiraled into a series of fortunate events, ultimately leading to a significant life lesson.
• Tell the story of someone who lost their home (or something of value) but found a new sense of community and belonging in an unexpected place.
• What major event has changed your life more than any other? Write an essay describing the event and what it changed.
• Write about a time you or someone you know had to make a difficult decision.
• Revisit a passion or hobby you abandoned long ago, detailing the emotions and memories that surfaced upon your return.
• Share the experience of a family gathering that revealed surprising secrets and strengthened your bonds with relatives.
• Write about a time you stood up for someone else, and how it impacted your understanding of bravery and justice.
• Describe an encounter with a stranger that taught you something profound about compassion and human connection.
• Reflect on a cherished recipe passed down through generations, and the memories it evokes each time you prepare it.
• Write about a family road trip or a family vacation that was a memorable experience.
• Tell the story of facing a fear that had haunted you for years, and how overcoming it transformed your self-image.
• Write a narrative about receiving a phone call that brings unexpected news. Capture the emotions you experience and how you respond to the information, whether it’s good or bad.
• Narrate a day when everything seems to go wrong—from waking up late to losing something important. Use humor and creativity to depict the mishaps and how you ultimately find a way to turn the day around.
• Write about a time someone taught you something difficult and taught you a valuable lesson.
• Tell about a time you made something whether a cake, birdhouse, song, story, or something else.
• Write about a place you go that feels like a second home.
• Write about a time you volunteered or helped someone else in a significant way.
• What is something you and your family or friends do that is unique to you or your culture?
• Tell about a time you visited somewhere new and learned something about yourself or the world.
• Write about a gift that changed your perception of something.
• Tell about an experience with music or art that shifted your understanding or gave you a deeper appreciation.

These prompts encourage students to tap into their imagination and life experiences, making narrative writing both fun and meaningful!

 Choose one of these ideas and write for fifteen minutes . When you're finished, share your story in the Pro Practice Workshop for feedback from the community. And if you share, please be sure to comment on a few stories by other writers.

Sue Weems is a writer, teacher, and traveler with an advanced degree in (mostly fictional) revenge. When she’s not rationalizing her love for parentheses (and dramatic asides), she follows a sailor around the globe with their four children, two dogs, and an impossibly tall stack of books to read. You can read more of her writing tips on her website .

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• Generate topic ideas for an essay or paper | Tips & techniques

Generate Topic Ideas For an Essay or Paper | Tips & Techniques

Published on November 17, 2014 by Shane Bryson . Revised on July 23, 2023 by Shona McCombes.

If you haven’t been given a specific topic for your essay or paper , the first step is coming up with ideas and deciding what you want to write about. Generating ideas is the least methodical and most creative step in academic writing .

There are infinite ways to generate ideas, but no sure-fire way to come up with a good one. This article outlines some tips and techniques for choosing a topic – use the ones that work best for you.

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Table of contents

Understanding the assignment, techniques for generating topic ideas, tips for finding a good idea, other interesting articles.

First, you need to determine the scope of what you can write about. Make sure you understand the assignment you’ve been given, and make sure you know the answers to these questions:

• What is the required length of the paper (in words or pages)?
• What is the deadline?
• Should the paper relate to what you’ve studied in class?
• Do you have to do your own research and use sources that haven’t been taught in class?
• Are there any constraints on the subject matter or approach?

The length and deadline of the assignment determine how complex your topic can be. The prompt might tell you write a certain type of essay, or it might give you a broad subject area and hint at the kind of approach you should take.

This prompt gives us a very general subject. It doesn’t ask for a specific type of essay, but the word explain suggests that an expository essay is the most appropriate response.

This prompt takes a different approach to the same subject. It asks a question that requires you to take a strong position. This is an argumentative essay that requires you to use evidence from sources to support your argument.

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Getting started is often the hardest part. Try these 3 simple strategies to help get your mind moving.

Talk it out

Discussing ideas with a teacher, friend or fellow student often helps you find new avenues to approach the ideas you have and helps you uncover ideas you might not have considered.

Write down as many ideas as you can and make point form notes on them as you go. When you feel you’ve written down the obvious things that relate to an idea, move on to a new one, or explore a related idea in more depth.

You can also cluster related ideas together and draw connections between them on the page.

This strategy is similar to brainstorming, but it is faster and less reflective. Give yourself a broad topic to write about. Then, on a pad of paper or a word processor, write continuously for two or three minutes. Don’t stop, not even for a moment.

Write down anything that comes to mind, no matter how nonsensical it seems, as long as it somehow relates to the topic you began with. If you need to, time yourself to make sure you write for a few minutes straight.

When you’ve finished, read through what you’ve written and identify any useful ideas that have come out of the exercise.

Whichever strategy you use, you’ll probably come up with lots of ideas, but follow these tips to help you choose the best one.

Don’t feel you need to work logically

Good ideas often have strange origins. An apple fell on Isaac Newton’s head, and this gave us the idea of gravity. Mary Shelley had a dream, and this gave us her famous literary classic, Frankenstein .

It does not matter how you get your idea; what matters is that you find a good one.

Work from general to specific

Your first good idea won’t take the form of a fully-formed thesis statement . Find a topic before you find an argument.

You’ll need to think about your topic in broad, general terms before you can narrow it down and make it more precise.

Maintain momentum

Don’t be critical of your ideas at this stage – it can hinder your creativity. If you think too much about the flaws in your ideas, you will lose momentum.

Creative momentum is important: the first ten in a string of related ideas might be garbage, but the eleventh could be pure gold. You’ll never reach the eleventh if you shut down your thought process at the second.

Let ideas go

Don’t get too attached to the first appealing topic you think of. It might be a great idea, but it also might turn out to be a dud once you start researching and give it some critical thought .

Thinking about a new topic doesn’t mean abandoning an old one – you can easily come back to your original ideas later and decide which ones work best.

Choose a topic that interests you

A bored writer makes for boring writing. Try to find an idea that you’ll enjoy writing about, or a way to integrate your interests with your topic.

In the worst case scenario, pick the least boring topic of all of the boring topics you’re faced with.

Keep a notepad close

Good ideas will cross your mind when you least expect it. When they do, make sure that you can hold onto them.

Many people come up with their best ideas just before falling asleep; you might find it useful to keep a notepad by your bed.

Once you’ve settled on an idea, you’ll need to start working on your thesis statement and planning your paper’s structure.

If you find yourself struggling to come up with a good thesis on your topic, it might not be the right choice – you can always change your mind and go back to previous ideas.

Write a thesis statement Make an essay outline

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If you want to know more about AI tools , college essays , or fallacies make sure to check out some of our other articles with explanations and examples or go directly to our tools!

• Ad hominem fallacy
• Post hoc fallacy
• Appeal to authority fallacy
• False cause fallacy
• Sunk cost fallacy

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• Choosing Essay Topic
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How to Read a Prompt

When reviewing an assignment sheet or a prompt for a class, many students can feel overwhelmed by the amount of information or misinterpret the instructor’s expectations. This handout is designed to help you navigate some of the finer points of reviewing a prompt to ensure you are understanding all the expectations for that assignment. Below is an example of an annotated prompt by a student who identified important points of the prompt. On the next page, we have also included a sample checklist developed from the prompt, which can help you keep track of the assignment expectations.

Sample Annotated Prompt

• You can use different colors to denote different kinds of information in the prompt.
• Highlight the important pieces of the assignment like the length, genre expectations, due dates, any important work that needs to be submitted prior to the final due date.
• Note any special requirements. In this assignment, you are asked to not only review a film, but you are also asked to review a film you have not seen before.
• Do not dismiss suggestions to view outside examples or other sources. Especially since this professor is not explicitly explaining the parts of a popular review, it is up to you as a writer to analyze and determine what those expectations are.
• Take notes on the assignment sheet and write down any questions you might have. Don’t be afraid to ask your professor questions when you are unclear about the expectations or how to get started.
• Even though this information comes at the end, it is important to note any stylistic requirements like citation style, font, document type, and where information is placed.
• Be sure to review the prompt multiple times throughout the writing process to ensure little details are not forgotten.

Checklist Developed from an Annotated Prompt

• 500-750 words excluding screenshots from the film.
• See a film you have never seen before.
• Analyze other film reviews to see how they are written from websites listed on Blackboard.
• Examine audience, tone, organization, and the different parts of the film reviews to reflect this structure in your own paper.
• Examine how much of the film reviewers typically give away and how positive/negative reviews are composed.
• Write review in a Word document and double check to be sure it is meeting above expectations.
• Submit the paper to Blackboard with title “LAST NAME Film Review” by 4/6 before midnight.
• Double check the font is Times New Roman and 12-point.
• Include last name and page number in the header.
• Center the title of review below the name, class, and date in upper left corner.
• The Works Cited page should be in MLA style.

Published October 03, 2023

3 Tips to Choose the Right Common App Essay Prompt

Lisa Mortini

Senior Assistant Director, NYU Abu Dhabi Admissions

It’s time to start preparing your application to NYU. If you’re wondering how to choose the right prompt amongst the seven offered by the Common Application, then keep reading.

TIP 1 – Which YOU are you presenting to NYU?

Don’t just jump on the first prompt you read and start writing. Before you choose a prompt, you may want to ask yourself: are you excited to talk to us about a specific achievement? Do you want to give us insight into a hardship you faced and conquered? Are you keen to tell us about how you challenged the world around you? Are you so passionate about something that it’s all you can talk about these days?

Each of the seven essay questions in the Common Application will highlight and reveal a different facet of your personality. Do your research on NYU to truly understand why we are the school for you. Use your findings to decide which of your own qualities, skills, and character traits show that you are a good match for NYU. Then choose the prompt that will help us best understand that you are indeed the right fit for the school.

TIP 2 – Are you sure you’ve read this right?

While the seven prompts from the Common Application seem straightforward, are you sure you’ve really understood what they are asking?

Do read each question—and especially the one you will choose to answer—very carefully. These prompts are not as simple as they appear. Many of them have layers and sub-questions. Do not latch only on one key word and run away with it! You want to make sure you are actually understanding the question before you answer it fully.

I heard this tip from a colleague once and it never left me. To make sure you’ve actually answered the question, ask someone you trust to read your essay draft but remove the question first. Ask them afterwards what they think the questions was. If they get it, bingo! You’ve answered the question. If they are off-base, then you may want to rework your answer to make sure it covers what is actually being asked.

TIP 3 – Trust your instinct

Many of you will already have, in the back of your mind, an interesting story about your life that you’d like to share with NYU. It’s an interesting anecdote that would accentuate your fit within our student community. But then, you hesitate. You’re unsure if you should choose this story or another one. Or another one. Maybe this other one would do?

Bottom line is trust that you know yourself.  If you feel a specific story would represent your personality well and convey your fit to NYU better than another, then choose that one. Don’t debate forever. No time to waste!

Be careful if choosing prompt 7: “ Share an essay on any topic of your choice. It can be one you’ve already written, one that responds to a different prompt, or one of your own design. ”

While great personal statements can come from this prompt, my application reviewer experience tells me it’s not always the savviest choice. As this question is very open, you may be tempted to use an essay that you’ve already written for a completely different reason. These essays tend to be more impersonal. They often focus on a school subject, a project or activity you were a part of. They don’t really tell us about YOU. What makes you interesting, unique, and a good fit for NYU. My recommendation would be to write your application essay for this purpose specifically and choosing one of the six other prompts will ensure that you do just that.

EXTRA BONUS TIP

As we are still navigating uncertain times, you may be tempted to use prompt 7, the open essay, to write about recent events and how they have most certainly affected your life. “How the COVID-19 Pandemic Impacted Me” might well be on its way to become a recurring essay topic.

Before you chose this particular subject for your main essay, do ask yourself: What have I lived through that thousands (if not millions) of other high school students around the world have not also gone through? What is my angle on this? How would choosing this subject help me differentiate myself from others and help reveal my true personality? If you are struggling to find satisfying answers to these questions, another topic may be more appropriate.

Additionally, don’t forget that the Common Application has given you a dedicated space in the ‘Additional Information’ section to talk about your experience with COVID-19 or another recent natural disaster that may have impacted your academic career. This should give you ample space to share with us any Covid-19 details that you deem relevant.

Finally....

If you are still unsure what to do with your essay, let me refer you to my earlier post about writing a great application essay . While written with international candidates in mind, it should prove useful to all who apply to NYU. Another great article about strengthening your writing is my colleague David’s post about how to proofread your college essay .

Happy writing! We really look forward to reading your application very soon.

Lisa is a Senior Assistant Director of Admissions for NYU Abu Dhabi and the Global Admissions Team, based in the London office. Born and raised in France, Lisa also lived in Denmark and spent a couple of years in leafy upstate New York.  She is a dedicated gardener, a keen traveler to India and Japan, and loves watching the tennis at Wimbledon. She now spends her free time playing with her little rescue terrier dog, Cooper.

More from Lisa:

6 Proofreading Habits for Your College Essay and Beyond

Finished your first draft of your college essay? Here’s the next part—proofreading and editing. These tips will guide you through the treacherous proofreading process to make your writing as sharp as possible.

Tips for International Candidates Writing the Common App Essay

If you’re an international candidate who keeps staring in wonder at the Common App essay with no clue where to start, this article is for you!

How to Approach the Common Application

There’s no wrong way to approach the Common Application, but here’s two different strategies you might want to choose from when you apply to NYU.

How to Write the Notre Dame Supplemental Essays 2024–2025

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The University of Notre Dame , consistently ranked the #1 university in Indiana , is a private Catholic research institution open to applicants of all faiths. Their academics , commitment to service , and inclusive student community all attract nearly 30,000 applicants yearly, only 12% of whom are admitted. Notre Dame’s accomplished alumni include Condoleezza Rice, Nicholas Sparks, Regis Philbin, and Orson Scott Card, among others. Hoping to join their ranks? First, you’ll need to nail your Notre Dame supplemental essays. Let’s dive in.

Notre Dame’s 2024-2025 Prompts

All applicants must write four supplemental essays as part of their Notre Dame application. The first prompt is required for all applicants. The other three essay prompts must be selected from a list of five prompts.

Required Essay Question

This essay question is required for all applicants to Notre Dame.

Everyone has different priorities when considering their higher education options and building their college or university list. Tell us about your “non-negotiable” factor(s) when searching for your future college home. (150 words or fewer)

Choose three: short essay questions.

All applicants must choose three of the following prompts to respond to.

How does faith influence the decisions you make? (50-100 words)

• What is distinctive about your personal experiences and development (eg, family support, culture, disability, personal background, community)?  Why are these experiences important to you and how will you enrich the Notre Dame community? (50-100 words)
• Notre Dame’s undergraduate experience is characterized by a collective sense of care for every person.  How do you foster service to others in your community? (50-100 words)

What compliment are you most proud of receiving, and why does it mean so much to you? (50-100 words)

What would you fight for (50-100 words).

General Tips

In different ways, each of the Notre Dame supplemental essays ask you to explore your values. As a result, you may find it beneficial to explore what your values are before you begin writing these essays. What is important to you, and why? How do your values differ from those of your family, community, or culture? And how have your values emerged from your family, community, or culture?

Answering these questions for yourself is not only a valuable philosophical exercise but may be helpful in getting you into the right mindset for answering these essay prompts. Notre Dame is evidently looking for thoughtful, introspective applicants who can compose considerate responses to complex questions. Cultivating self-awareness in yourself, as well as a personal set of values, will help you become the student the Notre Dame admissions team is seeking.

Of course, your personal set of values is likely evolving and will continue to evolve. Whatever values and personal philosophy you hold now won’t necessarily be the same after you graduate from Notre Dame. Thus, as you engage in this self-reflective activity and compose your Notre Dame supplemental essays, keep an open mind. Write about your own perspective, in this moment, versus about what values you believe everyone should hold or about the human experience in general.

This essay prompt is a roundabout way of confirming that Notre Dame is the right school for you. The admissions team will review your “non-negotiable” factor(s) and evaluate whether you could be satisfied at Notre Dame. Thus, it’s important that you research whether Notre Dame will fulfill your “non-negotiable” factor(s) before writing this essay.

The factor(s) you choose to write about can be academic, non-academic, or both. For instance, if you wish to study engineering, then whether or not the school you’re applying to has an engineering program would be a non-negotiable factor for you. Thankfully, Notre Dame does have engineering program! Alternatively, if your proximity to family is a non-negotiable factor for you, consider what the outer limits of your proximity to family are permissible to you, and whether Notre Dame would fit within those limits. If so, then it’s still a school worth applying to for you, and you should bring up that factor in your essay.

Remember to use specificity when writing about your non-negotiable factor(s), and elaborate upon why they are important to you. That way, the reader will understand exactly what is non-negotiable to you, and they will be able to empathize with your reasoning.

This prompt is appropriate for an applicant whose faith is a significant part of their life. If faith doesn’t serve a meaningful role in your life, then you may want to select a different prompt to answer. That way, you can ensure that all of your Notre Dame supplemental essays are imbued with meaning and show the reader who you really are.

Before embarking on writing your response to this question, your time would be well-spent researching faith at Notre Dame . Understanding Notre Dame’s history as a Catholic institution that welcomes all faiths will inform your response. After all, one of the decisions you’re making that could be discussed in this essay is your decision to apply to Notre Dame, even choosing to answer this prompt among the other Notre Dame supplemental essays.

What is distinctive about your personal experiences and development (eg, family support, culture, disability, personal background, community)?  Why are these experiences important to you and how will you enrich the Notre Dame community? (50-100 words)

This is a multi-part question in which each part deserves a full and thoughtful response. Because you only have 50-100 words in which to compose your response, you may want to outline your essay before you begin to ensure that you respond to each part of the prompt. Let’s break down what you need to bring up in this essay:

• family support
• personal background
• The significance to you of those distinctive qualities of your personal experiences and development
• and to be specific, how they will lead you to serve or contribute to the Notre Dame community

Consider limiting the scope of your response to just one or two distinctive and specific qualities of your personal experiences and development. This prompt can truly be answered by any applicant; everyone has unique stories to tell. Your story doesn’t look exactly like anyone else’s. Identify one or two things that make you unique, and provide the requisite nuance and details about them in this essay. Then, share their significance to you and your development. Lastly, express how these factors that have transformed and influenced you as a person will impact or inspire your contributions to the Notre Dame community.

Notre Dame’s undergraduate experience is characterized by a collective sense of care for every person.  How do you foster service to others in your community? (50-100 words)

Whether you have extensive community service experience or not, this essay is a great place for you to share the ways you have served others in your life. This could be through providing childcare in your own family, volunteering locally, mentoring younger students at your school, or any other activity you regularly engage in that involves serving others.

Remember, you can understand the word “community” expansively. Perhaps you are a member of the LGBTQ+ community and you have served other members of the community, even if they are not geographically near you. Or perhaps you are involved in a sport and have served others who play this sport, not just in your hometown or on your team. In other words, “community” is not bound by geography, but by one or more shared qualities.

What values drive you to serve others? How do you feel when you serve others? What have been the long-term or large-scale impacts of your service? Start by answering these questions for yourself and let your responses guide your essay.

There are a few explicit and implicit parts to this essay prompt. Let’s break it down:

• Who complimented you?
• What exactly was the compliment?
• When and where did you receive this compliment?
• Why was this person compelled to compliment you? Alternatively, what were the circumstances under which you received this compliment?
• How did receiving this compliment make you feel?
• Did your feelings around receiving this compliment change over time? If so, how and why?
• Why did this compliment make you feel proud?
• Why was this compliment especially important to you?
• Bonus question: How does this compliment continue to impact you to this day?

Before writing your essay, try answering each of the above questions. Then, do your best to frame your essay around those answers. Focus on providing the necessary contextual details. Be as specific as you can within the limited words you have, and emphasize the significance of the compliment without engaging in false modesty.

This prompt is broad and flexible: truly, you can write about anything that is important to you. You can go abstract with your response, writing about freedom or safety or love, for instance. Alternatively, you can write a more concrete response about how you’d fight for your family or something you’ve created, like an artwork or community.

The challenging part of this essay, for most applicants, will not be coming up with things you’d fight for, but rather narrowing your list down so that you can write a specific and nuanced response. Of course, you can also take the approach of writing as long a list of things you’d fight for as can fit in 50-100 words. If you write a diverse list without explaining any of the items, so as to create a multidimensional portrait of what is important to you, you’ll need to make sure each item is specific and doesn’t require a lot of context to understand. If you choose to focus on just one or two things you’d fight for, you’ll want to explain their significance to you, how you’d fight for them, and what fighting for them might look like

If you need help polishing up your Notre Dame supplemental essays, check out our College Essay Review service. You can receive detailed feedback from Ivy League consultants in as little as 24 hours.

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50+ Recent IELTS Writing Topics with Answers: Essays & Letters

14 min read

Updated On Aug 22, 2024

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This article lists recent IELTS Writing topics for Academic and General Training exams, covering Task 1 visual data and essays on themes like health, education, environment, and more. It also offers sample questions to aid in effective exam preparation.

Table of Contents

Ielts writing topics for academic writing task 1, ielts writing topics for general writing task 1, common ielts writing topics for writing task 2.

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IELTS Writing topics are one of the most essential study resources for IELTS exam preparation. There are two reasons for this: firstly, topics are often repeated in the IELTS exam and secondly, practising these IELTS Writing questions will help test-takers familiarise themselves with the format and requirements of the exam.

While the first task for the IELTS Writing exam has different versions of IELTS Academic and IELTS General , the second task is essay-writing for both. Even with differences in format or difficulty levels, both these tasks revolve around common IELTS writing topics like health, environment, education, travel, family and children, etc.

In this blog, we have compiled a list of the most popular and recent IELTS Writing topics based on the different tasks in this section and recurrent themes. Also, get hold of the IELTS writing questions and answers PDF that will help you practice at your own pace.

In the IELTS Writing Task 1 of the Academic exam, candidates have to summarize important visual information presented in graphs, charts, tables, maps, or diagrams in at least 150 words within 20 minutes.

Below are some IELTS Writing Task 1 topics with answers for each type of graphs and diagrams in IELTS Academic.

Line Graphs

Check out the list of IELTS Writing Task 1 - Line graph with IELTS writing questions and answers. Make sure to use appropriate IELTS Writing Task 1 Line Graph Vocabulary to write effective answers.

• IELTS Academic Writing Task 1 - Shops that Closed
• IELTS Academic Writing Task 1 Topic: Different sources of air pollutants - Line Graph
• IELTS Writing Task 1 - The Graph Below Shows Different Sources of Air Pollutants in the UK Sample Answers
• IELTS Academic Writing Task 1 Topic : Price changes for fresh fruits and vegetables - Line Graph
• The Percentage Of The Population In Four Asian Countries - IELTS Writing Task 1
• The Changes In Ownership Of Electrical Appliances And Amount Of Time Spent Doing Housework In Households - IELTS Writing Task 1
• IELTS Academic Writing Task 1 Topic 38: Paris Metro station passengers - Line Graph
• Projected Population Growth of China and India- Line Graph
• IELTS Academic Writing Task 1 Topic : Percentage of Car Ownership in Great Britain - Line Graph
• Waste Recycling Rates in the US From 1960 to 2011- Line Graph
• Weekday Volume of Passenger Activity on the Toronto Metro system- Line Graph
• US Consumers' Average Annual Expenditures on Cell Phone- Line Graph
• Consumption of Fish and Different kinds of Meat in a European Country- Line Graph
• Demographic Trends in Scotland- Line Graph

Here is a list of IELTS Writing topics with answers on the IELTS bar chart .

• People Who Ate Five Portions of Fruits and Vegetables Per Day in the UK - IELTS Writing Task 1
• IELTS Academic Writing Task 1 Topic : People affected by four types of noise pollution - Bar graph
• How Families in One Country Spent their Weekly Income - IELTS Writing Task 1
• Division of Household Tasks by Gender in Great Britain- Bar Graph
• Annual Pay for Doctors and Other Workers - IELTS Academic Writing Task 1 Bar Chart
• Estimated World Illiteracy Rates by Region and by Gender - IELTS Writing Task 1
• Southland’s Main Exports in 2000 and Future Projections For 2025 - IELTS Writing Task 1
• Carbon Emissions in Different Countries - IELTS Writing Task 1
• IELTS Academic Writing Task 1 Topic 22: Railway system in six cities in Europe – Bar Chart
• IELTS Writing Task 1 Test On 28th July With Band 8.0-9.0 Sample
• IELTS Academic Writing Task 1 Topic: Percentage of people living alone in 5 different age groups in the US - Bar Chart
• Amount of Leisure Time Enjoyed by Men and Women of Different Employment Statuses – Bar Chart
• USA Marriage and Divorce Rates Between 1970 and 2000 and the Marital Status of Adult Americans- Bar Graph
• Top Ten Rice-Producing Countries in the World in 2015- Bar Graph
• Rural Households that Had Internet Access Between 1999 and 2004- Bar Graph
• Information About Underground Railway Systems in Six Cities - IELTS Writing Task 1

Explore the list of IELTS writing topics related to pie charts and solve them with the help of pie chart vocabulary for IELTS preparation.

• IELTS Academic Writing Task 1 Topic : Survey conducted by a university library - Pie chart
• Methods of Transportation for People Traveling to a University - Pie Chart
• IELTS Academic Writing Task 1 Topic 13: Percentage of housing owned and rented in the UK – Pie Chart
• IELTS Academic Writing Task 1 Topic : The percentage of water used by different sectors - Pie chart
• Online shopping sales for retail sectors in Canada - IELTS Writing Task 1 Pie chart
• Percentage of Water Used for Different Purposes in Six Areas of the World- Pie Chart
• IELTS Academic Writing Task 1 Topic 18: Average Consumption of food in the world – Pie Chart
• Main Reasons Why Students Chose to Study at a Particular UK University - IELTS Writing Task 1 Academic Pie Chart
• Composition Of Household Rubbish In The United Kingdom - IELTS Writing Task 1

Here is a list of IELTS Writing topics with answers on the IELTS table chart .

• Fishing Industry in a European Country - IELTS Writing Task 1 Academic
• IELTS Academic Writing Task 1: Social and economic indicators for four countries - Table
• The Situation of Marriage and Age from 1960 to 2000 in Australia - IELTS Writing Task 1
• Past And Projected Population Figures In Various Countries - IELTS Writing Task 1
• IELTS Academic Writing Task 1 Topic 35: Number of travelers using three major German airports - Table
• IELTS Academic Writing Task 1 Topic 05: Size of US households over a number of years
• Changes in Modes of Travel in England Between 1985 and 2000- IELTS Writing Task 1 (Table)
• IELTS Academic Writing Task 1 Topic 12: Internet use in six categories by age group – Table
• Cinema Viewing Figures for Films by Country, in Millions- Table
• Number of Medals Won by the Top Ten Countries in the London 2012 Olympic Games- Table
• Sales at a Small Restaurant in a Downtown Business District- Table

Here is a list of IELTS Writing topics 2024 with answers on the IELTS Map Diagram .

• Paradise Island Map – IELTS Academic Writing Task 1 Answers
• Floor Plan of a Public Library 20 years ago and now - IELTS Writing Task 1
• A School in 1985 and the School Now - IELTS Writing Task 1
• Village of Stokeford in 1930 and 2010 - IELTS Writing Task 1 Map
• Map of the Centre of a Small Town Before and After - IELTS Writing Task 1
• Plan A & B shows a Health Centre in 2005 and in Present Day - IELTS Writing Task 1
• IELTS Academic Writing Task 1 Example 9 : Chorleywood is a village near London whose population has increased steadily - Map
• Two possible sites for the supermarket Sample Answers
• IELTS Academic Writing Task 1 Topic : Cross-sections of two tunnels
• IELTS Academic Writing Task 1: Local industrial village in England called Stamdorf - Map
• IELTS Academic Writing Task 1 : Hawaiian island chain in the centre of the Pacific Ocean - Map

Process Diagrams

Here is a list of IELTS Writing topics with answers on the IELTS Process diagram .

• Process of Making Soft Cheese - IELTS Writing Task 1
• Growing and Preparing Pineapples and Pineapple Products – IELTS Writing Task 1 Diagram
• Ceramic Pots Process - IELTS Academic Writing Task 1 Diagram
• How Orange Juice is Produced - IELTS Academic Writing Task 1
• IELTS Academic Writing Task 1 Topic 09 : Consequence of deforestation
• The Diagram Shows the Manufacturing Process of Sugar- IELTS Writing Task 1
• IELTS Academic Writing Task 1 Topic 10: How apple is canned - Diagram
• Life Cycle of the Salmon - IELTS Writing Task 1
• Academic IELTS Writing Task 1 Recycling process of wasted glass bottles Sample Answers
• Production of Potato Chips - IELTS Writing Task 1
• The Process of Milk Production - IELTS Writing Task 1
• Process of Making Pulp and Paper - IELTS Writing Task 1 Diagram
• Stages of Processing Cocoa Beans - IELTS Writing Task 1

Mixed/Combination Diagrams

The following is a list of IELTS Writing topics 2024 with answers on IELTS mixed or combination diagrams, practising which will aid in mastering these visual presentations for a top IELTS band score .

• Anthropology Graduates From One University - IELTS Writing Task 1
• Water use Worldwide and Water Consumption- Line Graph and Table
• Transport and Car Use in Edmonton- Pie Chart + Table
• Demand for Electricity in England- Line Graph and Pie Chart
• IELTS Academic Writing Task 1 Topic : Newly graduated students in the UK and their proportions - Multiple Graphs
• The table and charts below give information on the police budget - IELTS Writing Task 1

Practice IELTS Writing topics with expert guidance!

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In the IELTS General Writing Task 1 , test-takers are required to write a letter in response to a given situation. The letters are of three types depending on the context, namely formal, semi-formal and informal.

Below are some common IELTS Letter Writing topics that cover all the 3 ielts writing questions types of letters.

Formal Letters

Have a look at the list of IELTS General Writing Task 1 Sample Formal Letters that will help IELTS candidates prepare for the IELTS Writing questions for the actual exam.

• An Article in an International Travel Magazine - IELTS Writing Task 1
• A Magazine Wants to Include Contributions from its Readers - IELTS Writing Task 1
• Recently Booked a Part-Time Course at a College Now Need to Cancel Your Booking - IELTS Writing Task 1 General Formal Letter
• Advertisement From a Couple Who Live in Australia - IELTS Writing Task 1 General Formal Letter
• You Found You had Left Some Important Papers at the Hotel – IELTS General Writing Task 1
• Advertisement for a Training Course which will be Useful – IELTS Writing Task 1
• Write a Letter to Your Manager about a Party that You Want to Organize at the Office – IELTS General Writing Task 1
• A Feedback for a Short Cookery Course – IELTS General Writing Task 1
• Letter to the Local Authority about Construction of an Airport - IELTS Writing Task 1
• You Are Soon Going to Spend Three Months Doing Work Experience in an Organisation - IELTS Writing Task 1

Semi - formal Letters

The following is a list of IELTS General Writing Task 1 Sample Semi-Formal Letters with answers.

• A Friend Of Yours Is Thinking About Applying For The Same Course - IELTS Writing Task 1 General Semi-Formal Letter
• Letter to Neighbour About Barking Dog - IELTS Writing Task 1
• A Letter to Your Friend Who Lives in Another Town and Invite - IELTS Writing Task 1
• Letter to a Singer about His/Her Performance – IELTS General Writing Task 1
• You Have a Full-time Job and Doing a Part-time Evening Course - IELTS Writing Task 1
• Letter to Neighbor About the Damaged Car While Parking - IELTS Writing Task 1
• You Work for an International Company- Semi-formal letter
• You and Your Family are Living in Rented Accommodation- Semiformal Letter

Informal Letters

Here is a list of IELTS Writing topics with answers on the IELTS General Writing Task 1 Informal Letters that will help you to learn how to write an IELTS informal letter and brush up your writing skills.

• A Friend is Thinking of Going on a Camping Holiday - IELTS Writing Task 1
• Advice about Learning a New Sport – IELTS Writing Task 1 (Informal Letter)
• Help with a College Project - IELTS Writing Task 1 from Cambridge IELTS General 18
• Write a Letter to Your Friend Planning a Weekend Trip - IELTS General Writing Task 1
• Your Parents will be Celebrating their 50th Anniversary Next Month- Informal letter
• You are Studying English at a Private Language School- Informal Letter
• You Have a Friend Who has always Liked the Car you Currently Drive- Informal Letter
• You Have Recently Started Work in a New Company- Informal letter
• A friend Asking for Advice About a Problem at Work- Informal letter
• A Friend has Agreed to Look After your House- Informal Letter

Looking for some genuine study material for IELTS writing? Wait is over!

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IELTS Writing Task 2 is similar for both IELTS Academic and IELTS General Training with minor differences in the difficulty level. Therefore, let us have a look at the compilation of IELTS writing topics with answers for different IELTS Writing Task 2 sample essays based on the common common IELTS Writing topics 2024.

Business, Work & Talent

Work-related topics often cover issues such as work-life balance, the gig economy, and the impact of automation on employment. Also, business topics may include discussions on corporate responsibility, entrepreneurship, and the impact of globalization on local businesses.

• Some people are born with certain talents - IELTS Writing Task 2
• Women Should be Allowed to Join the Army, the Navy and the Air Force just like Men - IELTS Writing Task 2
• IELTS Writing Task 2: Until What Age Do You Think People Should be Encouraged to Remain in Paid Employment?
• IELTS Writing Task 2 - Top Level Authorities Should Take Suggestions From Employees
• How Realistic is the Expectation of Job Satisfaction for all Workers - IELTS Writing Task 2
• Men and Women Can Be Equally Suited to Do Any Type of Work - IELTS Writing Task 2
• People Work Long Hours Leaving Little Time for Leisure - IELTS Writing task 2
• Some People Say that it is Better to Work for a Larger Company than a Small One - IELTS Writing Task 2

Education topics often focus on the role of technology in education, the importance of higher education, and the debate over traditional vs. modern teaching methods.

• IELTS Writing Task 2: Nowadays it is More Difficult for Children to Concentrate to Pay Attention in School
• Placing Advertisements in Schools is a Great Resource for Public Schools - IELTS Writing Task 2
• IELTS Writing Task 2: Giving Homework Daily to School Children Works Well
• Very Few School Children Learn About the Value of Money: IELTS Writing Task 2
• Traditional Examination Are Not Often True to Students Ability - IELTS Writing Task 2
• Secondary School Children Should Study International News - IELTS Writing Task 2

Environment

Environmental issues are increasingly prominent in IELTS Writing, with topics covering pollution, climate change, and the conservation of natural resources.

• IELTS Writing Task 2 - Some people say domestic animals, like cats, should not be reared in cities
• We No Longer Need to have Animals Kept in Zoos - IELTS Writing Task 2
• The Importance of Biodiversity is Being More Widely Recognised - IELTS Writing Task 2
• People Should Use Public Transport to Support Pollution Control Initiatives - IELTS Writing Task 2
• International Community Must Act Immediately to Reduce Consumption of Fossil Fuels - IELTS Writing Task 2

Family and Children

IELTS Writing questions related to family and children often explore the changing dynamics of family life, parenting styles, and the impact of technology on children.

• IELTS Writing Task 2 - Young Single People No Longer Stay With Their Parents Until They Are Married
• Is it Better to Rear Children in Joint Family or in Nuclear Family - IELTS Writing Task 2
• IELTS Writing Task 2: Majority of Children are Raised by their Grandparents Due to the Fact that their Parents are Busy
• IELTS Writing Task 2: In Some Countries Children Have Very Strict Rules of Behaviour
• Some People Spend Their Lives Living Close to Where They Were Born - IELTS Writing Task 2
• Should Parents Read or Tell Stories to Their Children - IELTS Writing Task 2
• Women Make Better Parents than Men - IELTS Writing Task 2
• The Older Generations Tend to Have very Traditional Ideas - IELTS Writing Task 2

Food, Lifestyle and Entertainment

Food and entertainment related IELTS writing topics often discuss issues related to diet, the global food industry, and cultural food practices.

• Explain Why the Movies are As Popular As a Means of Entertainment - IELTS Writing Task 2
• IELTS Writing Task 2: Popular Hobbies and Interests Change Over Time
• IELTS Writing Task 2 - Which Do You Prefer Planning or Not Planning For Leisure Time?
• IELTS Writing Task 2: People Always Throw the Old Things Away When they Buy New Things
• Food Can Be Produced Much More Cheaply Today | IELTS Writing Task 2
• IELTS Writing Task 2: The Era of the Silver Screen is Coming to an End
• Why is Music Important for Many People - IELTS Writing Task 2
• IELTS Writing Task 2: Why is the Circus Still a Popular Form of Entertainment
• Crime Novels and TV Crime Dramas are Becoming Popular - IELTS Writing Task 2

Health-related topics are a staple in the IELTS Writing section, focusing on public health issues, diet, and the impact of modern lifestyles on health.

• Discuss the cause and effects of widespread drug abuse by young people - IELTS Writing Task 2
• Obesity is a Major Disease Prevalent among Children - IELTS Writing Task 2
• Exercise is the Key to Health while Others Feel that Having a Balanced Diet is More Important - IELTS Writing Task 2
• Advantages and Disadvantages of Government Providing Free Healthcare - IELTS Writing Task 2
• Tobacco and Alcohol are Drugs that Cause Addiction and Health Problems - IELTS Writing Task 2
• Many People Complain that They Have Difficulties Getting Enough Sleep - IELTS Writing Task 2
• and More People are Hiring a Personal Fitness Trainer - IELTS Writing Task 2

Language and Culture

Topics related to language and literature often explore the importance of preserving cultural heritage, language learning, and the impact of globalization on languages.

• Many Old Cities Around the World are Going Through a Major Process of Modernization - IELTS Writing Task 2
• Reading for Pleasure Develops Imagination and Better Language Skills - IELTS Writing Task 2
• IELTS Writing Task 2 - Traditional Festivals and Celebrations Have Disappeared
• Globalization will Inevitably Lead to the Total Loss of Cultural Identity - IELTS Writing Task 2

Societal issues such as violence, social inequality, and media influence are common in IELTS Writing topics.

• Individual Greed and Selfishness Have Been the Basis of Modern Society - IELTS Writing Task 2
• IELTS Writing Task 2 - Individuals Should Not Be Allowed To Carry Guns
• Nowadays We are Living in a Throwaway Society - IELTS Writing Task 2
• Different People Have Different Approaches to Life - IELTS Writing Task 2
• Violence and Conflict were more Evident under Male Leadership than under Female Leadership - IELTS Writing Task 2
• What Changes Do You Think this New Century Will Bring - IELTS Writing Task 2
• People Remember Special Gifts or Presents they Receive - IELTS Writing Task 2

Sports topics in IELTS Writing often cover the role of sports in education, the impact of professional sports on society, and issues related to sportsmanship.

• Many People Think Olympic Games and World Cup are an Enormous Waste of Money- IELTS Writing Task 2
• Cricket has Become More Popular than the National Sports - IELTS Writing Task 2
• Sports Today is Turning into a Business - IELTS Writing Task 2

Technology & Science

Technology is a rapidly evolving field, and its impact on society, work, and communication is a common topic in IELTS Writing. Media-related topics also come under this section and often focus on the influence of mass media, the ethics of journalism, and the role of the internet in modern communication.

• Internet and Computers Will Ever Replace the Book or the Written Word - IELTS Writing Task 2
• IELTS Writing Task 2: More and More People are Choosing to Read Ebooks Rather than Paper Books
• Some People Think That Mobile Phones Should Be Banned in Public Places - IELTS Writing Task 2
• Persuade More People to Embrace Electric Cars – IELTS Writing
• The most important aim of science should be to improve people's lives - IELTS Writing Task 2
• People May No Longer Be Able to Pay for Things Using Cash - IELTS Writing Task 2
• Mobile Phones and the Internet could have Many Benefits for Old People - IELTS Writing Task 2

Tourism and Travel

Tourism and travel topics may include discussions on the impact of tourism on local cultures, the environment, and the global economy.

• Foreign Visitors Should Pay More Than Local Visitors for Cultural and Historical Attractions - IELTS Writing Task 2
• IELTS Writing Task 2: What Do You Think are the Benefits of Going Away on Holidays?
• In the Future More People Will Go On Holiday in Their Own Country - IELTS Writing Task 2

Download the IELTS writing topics PDF that contain all the IELTS writing topics with answers to fasttrack your IELTS preparation!

Being familiar with these IELTS Writing topics and practicing your writing skills within these themes can help you prepare more effectively for the IELTS Writing test. Moreover, understanding the issues and arguments related to each topic will enable you to write well-rounded essays that meet the IELTS criteria. So, if you need further guidance through a free demo session or sign up for free IELTS webinars .

Additional Reads

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• Visuals: Writing About Graphs, Tables and Diagrams for IELTS Writing Task 1 (Ebook)
• How to Plan an IELTS Writing Task 2 Essay (Best Strategy)
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MIT study explains why laws are written in an incomprehensible style

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Legal documents are notoriously difficult to understand, even for lawyers. This raises the question: Why are these documents written in a style that makes them so impenetrable?

MIT cognitive scientists believe they have uncovered the answer to that question. Just as “magic spells” use special rhymes and archaic terms to signal their power, the convoluted language of legalese acts to convey a sense of authority, they conclude.

In a study appearing this week in the journal of the Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences , the researchers found that even non-lawyers use this type of language when asked to write laws.

“People seem to understand that there’s an implicit rule that this is how laws should sound, and they write them that way,” says Edward Gibson, an MIT professor of brain and cognitive sciences and the senior author of the study.

Eric Martinez PhD ’24 is the lead author of the study. Francis Mollica, a lecturer at the University of Melbourne, is also an author of the paper .

Casting a legal spell

Gibson’s research group has been studying the unique characteristics of legalese since 2020, when Martinez came to MIT after earning a law degree from Harvard Law School. In a 2022 study , Gibson, Martinez, and Mollica analyzed legal contracts totaling about 3.5 million words, comparing them with other types of writing, including movie scripts, newspaper articles, and academic papers.

That analysis revealed that legal documents frequently have long definitions inserted in the middle of sentences — a feature known as “center-embedding.” Linguists have previously found that this kind of structure can make text much more difficult to understand.

“Legalese somehow has developed this tendency to put structures inside other structures, in a way which is not typical of human languages,” Gibson says.

In a follow-up study published in 2023, the researchers found that legalese also makes documents more difficult for lawyers to understand. Lawyers tended to prefer plain English versions of documents, and they rated those versions to be just as enforceable as traditional legal documents.

“Lawyers also find legalese to be unwieldy and complicated,” Gibson says. “Lawyers don’t like it, laypeople don’t like it, so the point of this current paper was to try and figure out why they write documents this way.”

The researchers had a couple of hypotheses for why legalese is so prevalent. One was the “copy and edit hypothesis,” which suggests that legal documents begin with a simple premise, and then additional information and definitions are inserted into already existing sentences, creating complex center-embedded clauses.

“We thought it was plausible that what happens is you start with an initial draft that’s simple, and then later you think of all these other conditions that you want to include. And the idea is that once you’ve started, it’s much easier to center-embed that into the existing provision,” says Martinez, who is now a fellow and instructor at the University of Chicago Law School.

However, the findings ended up pointing toward a different hypothesis, the so-called “magic spell hypothesis.” Just as magic spells are written with a distinctive style that sets them apart from everyday language, the convoluted style of legal language appears to signal a special kind of authority, the researchers say.

“In English culture, if you want to write something that’s a magic spell, people know that the way to do that is you put a lot of old-fashioned rhymes in there. We think maybe center-embedding is signaling legalese in the same way,” Gibson says.

In this study, the researchers asked about 200 non-lawyers (native speakers of English living in the United States, who were recruited through a crowdsourcing site called Prolific), to write two types of texts. In the first task, people were told to write laws prohibiting crimes such as drunk driving, burglary, arson, and drug trafficking. In the second task, they were asked to write stories about those crimes.

To test the copy and edit hypothesis, half of the participants were asked to add additional information after they wrote their initial law or story. The researchers found that all of the subjects wrote laws with center-embedded clauses, regardless of whether they wrote the law all at once or were told to write a draft and then add to it later. And, when they wrote stories related to those laws, they wrote in much plainer English, regardless of whether they had to add information later.

“When writing laws, they did a lot of center-embedding regardless of whether or not they had to edit it or write it from scratch. And in that narrative text, they did not use center-embedding in either case,” Martinez says.

In another set of experiments, about 80 participants were asked to write laws, as well as descriptions that would explain those laws to visitors from another country. In these experiments, participants again used center-embedding for their laws, but not for the descriptions of those laws.

The origins of legalese

Gibson’s lab is now investigating the origins of center-embedding in legal documents. Early American laws were based on British law, so the researchers plan to analyze British laws to see if they feature the same kind of grammatical construction. And going back much farther, they plan to analyze whether center-embedding is found in the Hammurabi Code, the earliest known set of laws, which dates to around 1750 BC.

“There may be just a stylistic way of writing from back then, and if it was seen as successful, people would use that style in other languages,” Gibson says. “I would guess that it’s an accidental property of how the laws were written the first time, but we don’t know that yet.”

The researchers hope that their work, which has identified specific aspects of legal language that make it more difficult to understand, will motivate lawmakers to try to make laws more comprehensible. Efforts to write legal documents in plainer language date to at least the 1970s, when President Richard Nixon declared that federal regulations should be written in “layman’s terms.” However, legal language has changed very little since that time.

“We have learned only very recently what it is that makes legal language so complicated, and therefore I am optimistic about being able to change it,” Gibson says. 

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