how to write subjective essay

Subjective vs. Objective Essay: Examples, Writing Guides, & Topics

Subjective or objective essay writing is a common task students have to deal with. On the initial stage of completing the assignment, you should learn how to differentiate these two types of papers. Their goals, methods, as well as language, tone, and voice, are different.

A subjective essay focuses on the writer’s personal opinion, while an objective one represents valid facts. So, be careful when composing an objective paragraph or paper. Don’t let your beliefs take over real arguments supported by substantial evidence.

In short, differences between these styles concern the following:

• The ground for objective essays is facts; for subjective essays – personal opinions and beliefs.
• Objective papers report the findings from scientific sources, while subjective ones describe the writer’s thoughts.
• The objective essay’s goal is to help the reader make a decision. Subjective writing aims to reflect the author’s vision of the issue.

So, if you face this task for the first time, you may need some explanations. Custom-writing.org experts prepared a list of tips on how to write objective and subjective essays. Some topics, as well as objective and subjective writing examples, will also be useful.

• 🆚 Subjective vs. Objective

🔗 References

🆚 subjective vs. objective essays.

First and foremost, let’s find out the critical differences between the writing styles. Take a look at the following table and shed light on this issue.

An objective essay is a presentation of the material with no independent opinion involved. Only facts matter in this paper, and only facts can back up some assertions. Writing subjective essays implies introducing your standpoint on a particular problem.

📋 How to Write an Objective Essay

Writing any essay consists of three parts: preparation, the actual writing, and revision. During the first one, you need to decide on your topic and do a little research. You can see how it looks in a real example.

Objective Essay Example: The Portrayal of Odysseus

In Odyssey, Homer portrays Odysseus, the king of Ithaca, as the true epic hero. The depiction of Odysseus is thoughtfully knitted together with the themes of love and loyalty that further magnify it, painting a holistic picture of a long 10-year journey home. Although it can be argued that some of Odysseus’s personality traits he displays cannot be applied to a true hero, he is still depicted following a very specific heroic archetype.

Now, let’s get into more detail!

Objective Essay Topics

If you’ve decided to write an objective essay, you need to come up with a topic. The topic gives a reader a brief overview of what will be covered in the paper.

Here are ten great examples:

• While the differences between Italy and Spain are evident, the resemblances are striking.
• There are several similarities between the movies “Deep Impact” and “Armageddon.”
• Compare and contrast the capitals of two English-speaking countries.
• Somatic symptoms in people with PTSD can be influenced by age, gender, and avoidance.
• Some might argue, but being overweight carries a social stigma.
• Environmental factors contribute to the phenotypic expression of psychological disorders.
• Although the exact reason remains unclear, depression is affected by sex, gender, hormonal changes, and age.
• When comparing and contrasting the Bible and Quran, it seems that they have more similarities than differences.
• Musical ability is the result of influence on the person from outside.
• In comparison to extroverts, introverts draw power from within themselves to use it in future activities.

Objective Essay Structure

We shall continue with exploring an essay structure. Note that the parts described below are essential for any essay.

• Introduction . The introduction is usually the part that broadly describes the topic and gets the interest of the reader. This part of the paper should cover some background information and present the purpose.
• Hypothesis . In case your essay has one, state it in your introduction. A hypothesis includes information about how you intend to prove or refute the claim. It briefly describes the way you intend to do so.
• Arguments . Present one side of the argument. In the next paragraph, present the opposing one, using such words as “however,” “nevertheless,” and “although.” The task is to provide the readers with two sides of the argument.
• Evidence . Provide the evidence for all of your points. Keep the balance in providing proof and refutal. Omit your personal opinion, rather than include the evidence you find informative and convincing.
• Conclusion . Summarize the arguments both for and against the position. While remaining objective, shortly go over the information you presented as evidence. If the instructions require a personal opinion, in conclusion, you might write one. In other cases, briefly recap the parts of the essay. Shorten sentence generator would be greatly beneficial in such endeavor.

📜 How to Write a Subjective Essay

As we’ve mentioned earlier, a subjective essay represents the author’s vision of a particular issue. You have an opportunity to introduce your point of view without supporting your ideas with evidence from the primary sources. However, make sure your arguments are still logical and adequate.

Now see how to write a subjective essay in the sections below.

Subjective Writing Example

A well-chosen topic is the vital determinant of a successful essay. Yet, the process of selecting an idea for your paper might be challenging. That’s why you may find our example helpful.

The rapid pace of development of modern technologies increases the demand for oil and gas every year. A considerable amount of these resources is necessary to maintain both industrial enterprises and private equipment. Despite active production, there are still many unexplored places on Earth, potentially rich in oil and gas deposits. However, while making them public would help solve the existing problem, I’m afraid I disagree with this proposal.

Subjective Essay Topics

Check our list of subjective essay topics, choose the one you like the most, or inspire and come up with your idea!

• The fake and too glamorous life presented in social media leads to the development of an inferiority complex among teenagers.
• The information flows within the country should not be controlled by the governments.
• Since developed nations provoked the climate crisis, they should take full responsibility for their past actions and reduce carbon emissions in the atmosphere.
• Cyberbullying should be a matter of the same importance as physical abuse.
• Remote learning opens more opportunities and expands the students’ horizons.
• Instead of catching up with fashion trends, it is better to develop your unique style.
• People should have enough rest to reduce the levels of anxiety and decrease the chances of depression.
• Studying abroad is an experience worth trying.
• Planning and scheduling are perfect strategies to deal with procrastination.
• While applying for a job position, work experience is more significant than having a degree.

📝 Subjective Essay Structure

When you deal with this task, you have full freedom of choice. You can decide for yourself what idea to support and what arguments to present. Still, you have to structure even a subjective essay properly.

Here are the elements you have to include in your paper:

• grab the readers’ attention;
• introduce your subject;
• state your position in the thesis statement.

Important note: your thesis should be clear and straightforward. Let your audience understand your opinion.

• Description . Dive deeper into your topic and describe your issue in detail. However, don’t go too far. Avoid including irrelevant facts and unnecessary information. Follow the principle “quality over quantity” to keep your reader engaged.
• Opinion . After describing your issue, move to the most crucial part of your essay—opinion. State it clearly and concisely. Although you don’t need to provide any evidence from scholarly sources, your ideas should be supported by substantial arguments or examples from your personal life.
• Conclusion . In the last paragraph of your subjective essay, restate your thesis statement. Don’t introduce any other ideas here. To make your paper more dynamic, ask a provocative question at the end. It may motivate your reader for further investigation of your subject.

A helpful tip:

Before submitting your work, make sure it is coherent. Check if all of your ideas follow the logical flow. To avoid redundancy and wordiness, mix shorter sentences with longer ones and apply transitional phrases. Polish your essay, turn it in, and wait for your perfect grade.

Thanks for reading the page! Share it with your peers who may need some guidance as well. Our writers are ready to explain any other essay type , not only objective or subjective ones.

Learn more on this topic:

• How to Write an Expository Essay in Simple Steps
• Nursing Reflective Essay Example and Guidelines for Students
• Essay on Dengue Fever: How to Write + Free Examples
• French Essay Writing: How-to Guide and Examples
• How to Write a Rebuttal Essay: Jackie Michael, Pen and the Pad
• Writing Objectively: OWLL, Massey University
• Subjective vs Objective: Difference and Comparison, Diffen
• Objective and Subjective Claims: TIP Sheet, Butte College
• Evidence: The Writing Center, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill
• Organizing Your Argument: Purdue Online Writing Lab, College of Liberal Arts, University of Purdue
• Argumentative Paper Format: Courtesy the Odegaard Writing & Research Center, University of Washington
• How Do I Write an Intro, Conclusion, & Body Paragraph: LSA Sweetland Center for Writing, the University of Michigan
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Very helpful to make my assignment. Thank you so much!

Glad to know that. Thank you very much, Farhana!

Subjective and reflective.

That’s right, Raj 🙂

Thank you for this information. I submitted my subjective essay, which was rejected by my teacher for lack of an attractive hook. After reading your info on writing subjective essays, I know what I should change in my paper to get a good grade.

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This is what I need to complete my paper. Your subjective essay writing secrets are appropriate for students who can’t cope with their essays themselves. Even those who write a paper for the first time will complete their subjective essays without any problems.

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Essay Papers Writing Online

Mastering the art of essay writing – a comprehensive guide.

Essay writing is a fundamental skill that every student needs to master. Whether you’re in high school, college, or beyond, the ability to write a strong, coherent essay is essential for academic success. However, many students find the process of writing an essay daunting and overwhelming.

This comprehensive guide is here to help you navigate the intricate world of essay writing. From understanding the basics of essay structure to mastering the art of crafting a compelling thesis statement, we’ve got you covered. By the end of this guide, you’ll have the tools and knowledge you need to write an outstanding essay that will impress your teachers and classmates alike.

So, grab your pen and paper (or fire up your laptop) and let’s dive into the ultimate guide to writing an essay. Follow our tips and tricks, and you’ll be well on your way to becoming a skilled and confident essay writer!

The Art of Essay Writing: A Comprehensive Guide

Essay writing is a skill that requires practice, patience, and attention to detail. Whether you’re a student working on an assignment or a professional writing for publication, mastering the art of essay writing can help you communicate your ideas effectively and persuasively.

In this comprehensive guide, we’ll explore the key elements of a successful essay, including how to choose a topic, structure your essay, and craft a compelling thesis statement. We’ll also discuss the importance of research, editing, and proofreading, and provide tips for improving your writing style and grammar.

By following the advice in this guide, you can become a more confident and skilled essay writer, capable of producing high-quality, engaging essays that will impress your readers and achieve your goals.

Understanding the Essay Structure

When it comes to writing an essay, understanding the structure is key to producing a cohesive and well-organized piece of writing. An essay typically consists of three main parts: an introduction, the body paragraphs, and a conclusion.

Introduction: The introduction is where you introduce your topic and provide some background information. It should also include your thesis statement, which is the main idea or argument that you will be discussing in the essay.

Body paragraphs: The body of the essay is where you present your supporting evidence and arguments. Each paragraph should focus on a separate point and include evidence to back up your claims. Remember to use transition words to link your ideas together cohesively.

Conclusion: The conclusion is where you wrap up your essay by summarizing your main points and restating your thesis. It is also a good place to make any final thoughts or reflections on the topic.

Understanding the structure of an essay will help you write more effectively and communicate your ideas clearly to your readers.

Choosing the Right Topic for Your Essay

One of the most crucial steps in writing a successful essay is selecting the right topic. The topic you choose will determine the direction and focus of your writing, so it’s important to choose wisely. Here are some tips to help you select the perfect topic for your essay:

By following these tips and considering your interests, audience, and research, you can choose a topic that will inspire you to write an engaging and compelling essay.

Research and Gathering Information

When writing an essay, conducting thorough research and gathering relevant information is crucial. Here are some tips to help you with your research:

Crafting a Compelling Thesis Statement

When writing an essay, one of the most crucial elements is the thesis statement. This statement serves as the main point of your essay, summarizing the argument or position you will be taking. Crafting a compelling thesis statement is essential for a strong and cohesive essay. Here are some tips to help you create an effective thesis statement:

• Be specific: Your thesis statement should clearly state the main idea of your essay. Avoid vague or general statements.
• Make it arguable: A strong thesis statement is debatable and presents a clear position that can be supported with evidence.
• Avoid clichés: Stay away from overused phrases or clichés in your thesis statement. Instead, strive for originality and clarity.
• Keep it concise: Your thesis statement should be concise and to the point. Avoid unnecessary words or phrases.
• Take a stand: Your thesis statement should express a clear stance on the topic. Don’t be afraid to assert your position.

By following these guidelines, you can craft a compelling thesis statement that sets the tone for your essay and guides your reader through your argument.

Writing the Body of Your Essay

Once you have your introduction in place, it’s time to dive into the body of your essay. The body paragraphs are where you will present your main arguments or points to support your thesis statement.

Here are some tips for writing the body of your essay:

• Stick to One Main Idea: Each paragraph should focus on one main idea or argument. This will help keep your essay organized and easy to follow.
• Use Topic Sentences: Start each paragraph with a topic sentence that introduces the main idea of the paragraph.
• Provide Evidence: Support your main points with evidence such as facts, statistics, examples, or quotes from experts.
• Explain Your Points: Don’t just state your points; also explain how they support your thesis and why they are important.
• Use Transition Words: Use transition words and phrases to connect your ideas and create a smooth flow between paragraphs.

Remember to refer back to your thesis statement and make sure that each paragraph contributes to your overall argument. The body of your essay is where you can really showcase your critical thinking and analytical skills, so take the time to craft well-developed and coherent paragraphs.

Perfecting Your Essay with Editing and Proofreading

Editing and proofreading are essential steps in the essay writing process to ensure your work is polished and error-free. Here are some tips to help you perfect your essay:

• Take a Break: After writing your essay, take a break before starting the editing process. This will help you look at your work with fresh eyes.
• Focus on Structure: Check the overall structure of your essay, including the introduction, body paragraphs, and conclusion. Make sure your ideas flow logically and cohesively.
• Check for Clarity: Ensure that your arguments are clear and easy to follow. Eliminate any jargon or confusing language that might obscure your message.
• Grammar and Punctuation: Review your essay for grammar and punctuation errors. Pay attention to subject-verb agreement, verb tense consistency, and proper punctuation usage.
• Use a Spell Checker: Run a spell check on your essay to catch any spelling mistakes. However, don’t rely solely on spell checkers as they may miss certain errors.
• Read Aloud: Read your essay aloud to yourself or have someone else read it to you. This can help you identify awkward phrasing or unclear sentences.
• Get Feedback: Consider getting feedback from a peer, teacher, or writing tutor. They can offer valuable insights and suggestions for improving your essay.

By following these editing and proofreading tips, you can ensure that your essay is well-crafted, organized, and free of errors, helping you make a strong impression on your readers.

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Subjective vs. Objective: What's the Difference?

Hannah Yang

If you’re trying to write a strong essay or story, it’s often important to understand the difference between subjective and objective truth.

What exactly do the words subjective and objective mean, and when should you use each?

This article will explain the difference between the two words, provide examples of how they’re used in a sentence, and discuss whether you should look for objective or subjective information to support your own writing.

• What’s the Difference Between Subjective vs. Objective?

How Would You Use Objective and Subjective in a Sentence?

What are some examples of objective statements, what are some examples of subjective information, how can you tell if something is objective or subjective, what is an objective opinion, are impartial facts better than personal feelings, what’s the difference between subjective vs. objective .

The difference between objective and subjective is related to the difference between facts and opinions.

The word objective describes information that’s based on verifiable facts. Objective truth can be verified by a third party, regardless of who the third party is.

For example, the sentence “The temperature outside is around 10°C” is an objective statement, because that statement will be equally true no matter who says it. Anybody in the world with a working thermometer could verify this statement.

The word subjective is the exact opposite; it describes information that’s based on personal opinion or personal interpretation.

Subjective truth might be different for different people, depending on their own tastes, preferences, or experiences.

The sentence “It’s very cold outside” is a subjective statement, because how true this sentence is depends on personal opinions and experiences.

Many temperatures would feel very cold to someone who grew up in Arizona, but comfortably warm to someone who grew up in Alaska.

One easy way to remember the difference between the two words is to remember that “objective” sounds like “object.”

Objective facts are as concrete as the objects you can touch, like your desk, your bike, or your water bottle.

Subjective facts, on the other hand, pertain to more abstract concepts, like beauty, joy, or discomfort.

Here’s an example of a sentence that uses both objective and subjective in context:

"But now we, as pathologists, need more objective measures because symptoms, to a certain degree, are subjective ." (Time)

This sentence, a quote from a pathologist, argues that symptoms of diseases are somewhat subjective because they differ from person to person.

One patient with the flu might feel horribly nauseous, while another patient with the same flu might feel only a mild cough.

As a result, it’s useful for doctors to have objective tools to determine how ill people are, which don’t have results that vary from person to person.

That way, they can track the way a disease spreads even if not all patients feel the same symptoms.

Let’s look at another example.

"We take our unruly, subjective feelings about a year of television and groom them into something that looks mathematical and objective ." (Slate)

This sentence, a quote from a TV critic, argues that trying to rank TV shows is a meaningless task.

Every viewer has different tastes; some might love lighthearted sitcoms, while others prefer serious dramas.

There’s no objective way for a TV critic to determine a Top 10 list that applies to everybody, because everyone’s tastes and enjoyment levels are inherently subjective.

If what you’re writing can be proven or disproven by evidence, it’s an objective statement. Likewise, if you include a reference to an study or an experiment, it is an objective statement.

Remember to always reference information like this. ProWritingAid’s Plagiarism Checker can ensure that you never inadvertently pass off someone else’s work as your own.

Find out more about Plagiarism Checks.

Here are some examples of objective information:

• The largest freshwater fish ever caught was 646 pounds. (Cite- Brittanica)
• Abraham Lincoln was the sixteenth president of the United States.
• The World Health Organization declared COVID-19 a pandemic on March 11, 2020.
• I have eaten the plums that were in the icebox.

Keep in mind that those statements would still be considered objective even if they were false.

It’s a common mistake to assume that “objective” is synonymous with “true,” but lies can be objective statements, too. The statement remains objective as long as it doesn’t depend on feelings or opinions.

For example, if William Carlos Williams had written “I didn’t eat any of the plums that were in the icebox,” even though he actually did, that would still qualify as an objective statement.

Here are some examples of false objective statements:

• Abraham Lincoln was the first president of the United States.
• The World Health Organization has never issued an official statement about COVID-19.
• I didn’t eat any of the plums that were in the icebox.

If a statement relies on personal feelings or beliefs, it’s likely to be subjective.

Here are some examples of subjective statements:

• It feels very warm outside.
• Dogs are better than cats.
• The plums in the icebox tasted delicious.

Watch out for subjective information that’s disguised as objective analysis. For example, a newspaper headline that says “New Study Shows That Dogs Are 85% Better Than Cats” sounds like an objective fact. However, because it depends on personal preferences and opinions, it’s still a subjective statement.

Here are some subjective statements that are disguised to sound like objective statements:

• It is objectively very warm outside.
• A new study shows that dogs are 85% better than cats.
• Plums in iceboxes taste ten times better than plums that are left in the heat.

If you’re not sure whether a statement is objective or subjective, here are some useful questions you can ask yourself.

To determine whether a statement is objective , ask:

• Is this statement based on factual evidence?
• Is there a way a scientist could test this statement to figure out if it’s true or false?
• Would a robot without any concept of human emotion be able to say this statement?

If the answers to any of the above questions are “yes,” you’re probably dealing with an objective statement.

To determine whether a statement is subjective , ask:

• Is this statement based on someone’s feelings, preferences, or personal tastes?
• Is it impossible to determine whether this statement is true or false?
• Does this statement make a judgement about something (e.g. good or bad, right or wrong, beautiful or ugly)?

If the answers to any of the above questions are “yes,” you’re probably dealing with a subjective statement.

You can also look at the source of the statement to help you figure out how objective it is.

Sources like peer-reviewed scientific articles and unbiased news articles tend to contain more objective material.

Sources like opinion pieces and creative non-fiction tend to contain more subjective material.

The phrase "objective opinion" might seem counterintuitive, since these two words are essentially opposites.

In this context, the word "objective" means unbiased and impartial, rather than factual. This is also true for the phrase "objective assessment."

For example, you might ask a friend for an objective opinion about whether or not you should break up with your boyfriend.

In this scenario, your friend can’t give you objective advice if they have a personal reason for wanting you to make this decision, such as if they’re secretly in love with your boyfriend too.

Whether you should use subjective or objective statements depends on what your goal is.

If you’re writing a persuasive essay, you’ll usually need factual or quantitative data to make your writing credible. It’s important to search for objective facts from a reliable and impartial source.

On the other hand, you can also make use of subjective evidence, such as personal anecdotes. If you’re writing a persuasive essay about why bullying is wrong, a heartfelt story from the perspective of someone who’s been bullied might touch more readers than impersonal facts.

Most strong essays make use of both subjective and objective truth.

Final Words on the Difference Between Subjective vs. Objective

There you have it: a comprehensive guide to the difference between subjective and objective statements. Which examples did you find most helpful? Let us know in the comments.

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Hannah Yang is a speculative fiction writer who writes about all things strange and surreal. Her work has appeared in Analog Science Fiction, Apex Magazine, The Dark, and elsewhere, and two of her stories have been finalists for the Locus Award. Her favorite hobbies include watercolor painting, playing guitar, and rock climbing. You can follow her work on hannahyang.com, or subscribe to her newsletter for publication updates.

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What Is Subjective Writing (Definition, How To Write + Examples)

What is subjective writing?

Any writing consists of subjective and objective statements. Writers use objective and subjective statements basing on the need and intent of the piece. Subjective or objective indicates the kind of information we are supposed to get from reading a piece.

If the writing is subjective we can expect personal opinion and interpretetion of the information provided, if any.

A writing is subjective when it contains personal opinions, personal feelings and subjective views. The intent of subjective writing is to convey the writer’s idea to the reader.

How is subjective writing different from objective writing?

Objective writing as opposed to subjective writing gives facts, data, and avoids personal biases. It avoids expressing any concern, feelings, or anything that is not a proven fact or data.

Let us take this sentence for example.

The umbrella is of my favourite colour orange.

This is a subjective sentence which contains personal feelings. This same sentence in an objective writing would be, “ The umbrella is orange in colour. ” The sentence does not contain any opinions on whether the umbrella is good or bad, or the colour orange is their personal favorite.

The roads have been sweeped two hours ago.

This is an objective statement because it gives nothing but facts.

Subjective writing is  qualitative  in nature, while objective writing is  quantitative  in nature. That means, subjective writing describes things that cannot be measured with quantity. Objective statements define specific information that can be measured in quantity. “Two hours”, “5 days”, “ten miles” are quantitative information. “Favorite”, “good/bad” are qualitative words used in subjective writing.

The word objective have different meanings. An objective can be something factual, or it can be used to define a goal. Or it can be a part of a sentence: subject-object. Similarly, the word subjective refers to either subjective information, or the subject of a sentence, subject as a person or topic of discussion or can be used to describe a curricular subject, like Physics.

Subjective writing is  opinion driven , while objective writing is  fact driven . If one says there will be a subjective assessment of something, then the person’s feelings, who is judging, matters. If it is an objective assessment then the said thing will be based on objective criteria and not someone’s opinion.

Where is subjective writing used? (Objective vs Subjective)

Subjective writing is the medium of writing in the following types of content.

• Books : If you are the author of a book, or in the process of writing, it is very natural that you will put your own opinions, personal interpretation, and views into it. In such case, subjective writing is very much required, as your readers want to know and understand your personal views.
• Personal journals : You private diary is your own space and you are most definitely required to be subjective here. It is a place for your own thoughts, feelings and your own experiences. Therefore, it is not at all important to worry about the objectivity of your content. It is very much given that the writing will have subjective language.
• Reviews : You can be subjective while writing a book review, or a movie review. It is very personal that you will or will not like a certain book, movie, play, or performance. Or any kind of review for that matter.
• Everyday conversations : In order to be candid you will tend to be subjective while speaking to a friend, or a family member. It is not possible to speak in facts and figures in an informal conversation.
• Social media content : Like a personal blog, or journal, you can use subjective writing while making social media content. But it is important to understand the implications because it will be consumed by the masses. Subjective social media content should be made carefully and responsibly.

Writing that you cannot be subjective about are:

• Reports : Writing reports about growth of a certain business, about an incident for the newspaper, requires you be objective. You cannot put your personal feelings into such works.
• Scientific journals : Journals that are data and experiment driven has no place for subjective observation or assumptions. All content that is written must be backed up with real data.
• Records/archives : Records such as census, statistics, or archives cannot have subjectivity. They should be written in objective language.

What are the characteristics of subjective writing?

Subjective writing is  biased  in nature. Although it may have a objective origin, its nature is to be subjective. For example, if I feel it is very hot today because of global warming, the origin of the thought is objective, that global warming does make the planet hotter, but if that is the reason for me feeling hot today is a topic of much debate.

Subjective writing  may not have a clear topic  to begin with. It may not try to reach a specific conclusion or even may not intend to. If you are new to writing, it is always good to start with objective writing. Again, this is a personal opinion. Because, objective writing only needs you to record and produce what is already there and not create anything new, or even produce a new point. Recording the venue, time, and number of people at an event is easier, in my opinion, than analysing how good the opera was. Subjective writing carries a responsibility, especially if it will be consumed by a large number of people.

Subjective writing  may not have evidence  back-up. Technically, one can say anything and they need not produce a data back-up unless it is for an official purpose like a research paper, or legal procedure.

Subjective writing focuses on the person writing it rather than what they are writing. In a way it is more  writer-oriented  than the reader. Of course it gives subjective information about what the writer thinks about something.

Examples of Subjective Statements

I do not think I can ever be wrong.

The hats in the shop are not perfect in shape.

I do not like the tempo of the song.

The cell phone is not in a colour I like.

The notebook is not thick enough for the kind of writing I want to do.

The office does not care for its employees, that is why they do not change the faulty water cooler.

The farms in that area does not grow much vegetables of my choice.

The candle with pina colada smell is better than the one with stawberry smell.

I met a boy today and I think he is very nice.

I do not think the party in power will do very good this term.

I think the market will inevitably crash.

The girl with the Metallica tshirt is very cool.

My friend has a cute pair of pink shoes.

Academic writing requires a lot of hard work.

Hard news reporting is a very hard job.

I use the best search engines on the internet.

Meera is one of the most talented persons in the class.

Shakespeare’s writing style is better than Christopher Marlowe’s.

To Kill A Mockingbird is the most important text of the century.

The locality is full of dangerous raccoons.

I am afraid of spiders. They are scary.

Positive reinforcement is a great way to teach children anything.

Blue ink is better than any other ink.

Freddie Mercury is the greatest singer of all time.

Michaelangelo is a better Renaissance artist than Rafael.

Objective vs subjective is an age-long debate. Subjective writing is based on opinions and objective writing is based on facts. Official and legal matters use objective writing while other texts such as books, blogs, journals, speeches use subjective writing. To be a better writer, it is advised that one always has objective information to back up the statements they are making even if the content is about perception and beliefs.

Tomas Laurinavicius

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What Is the Difference Between Objective and Subjective Writing (Examples)

What Is Satirical Writing (Definition, How To Write Satire + Examples)

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30 Perception and Perspective – The Subjective Writer

Perception and perspective.

Def: Perception ( noun )

The ability to see, hear, or become aware of something through the senses. The way in which something is regarded, understood, or interpreted.

Def:  Perspective ( noun )

A particular attitude towards or way of regarding something; point of view.

It is impossible to move through the world without engaging in the development of our own perceptions and perspectives, whether they be purely physical or emotional, or in the case of academic writing, theoretical.

It is when those perceptions and perspectives too heavily influence our writing that we may inadvertently become subjective writers , incorporating a hidden, or not so hidden, bias in our logical reasoning and thoughtful writing. Writers use their own perceptions to describe, explain and analyse content, both in the analysis of other writers and in their own communication.

To be a critical thinker it is important to reflect on your own perceptions and the way they influence your perspectives of people, the world, essay topics, sources of information, events, and histories.

Perception and perspective, while separate, are entwined because they constantly influence each other in a circular way. Perceptions, the way you sense the world and interpret it, impact on your perspective, your point of view of said world, which again influences your perceptions.

Due to differing perceptions among people, perspectives (points of view) often conflict with one another, therefore you must try to determine which one makes the most sense through logical reasoning. It is also important to rely on more than one source of information. Consider the following scenario as an example.

Example: Perception and Perspective

A woman is driving a car down a suburban street when she swerves to miss a dog on the road and accidently hits a parked car. It is a low impact accident and the driver gets out of the vehicle to inspect the damage. The owner of the dog appears on the scene to apologise profusely for the trouble his dog has caused and offers to pay for the damages to both vehicles. The owner of the parked vehicle is at their car by this time and hears the conversation between the dog owner and the driver who hit their parked vehicle. The driver throws her hands in the air. She is elated by the dog owner’s quick offer of compensation and thankful that the potentially dreadful situation is quickly remedied.

Three people witnessed the incident and had different perceptions of what happened which altered their perspectives.

“I was travelling behind the car when it swerved erratically and hit the parked car. The driver must be on something because it’s a straight road and there’s no reason to be driving erratically like a crazy person on a quiet street.” (The witness did not see the dog and therefore assumed the driver was at fault.)

Witness 2: Walked around the corner as the dog owner and driver began to exchange words, but was too far away to hear the conversation.

“The owner of the parked car (incorrect) looked really annoyed and was abusing the guy that crashed into her car!” (This person only has part of the story and has jumped to conclusions about who did what.)

Witness 3: Watched the accident happen from a second floor window.

“A dog ran out in front of the car and the lady swerved just in time to miss it, but she hit a parked car as a result. Both the dog owner and owner of the parked car didn’t look happy and judging from the way she threw her arms in the air I’m guessing they were both blaming her.” (This person was not close enough to hear the conversation and assumed the outcome based purely on their perception of events.)

Only the three people directly involved in the conversation would know the actual outcome.

The three witnesses were heavily influenced by what they think they saw and how they chose to interpret their perceptions.

Perspectives are not something we are born with, they are socially constructed through language and formed or influenced throughout our life by such things as our beliefs, our level of education, our family histories, gender experience, health experiences, nationality, ethnicity, our age, and where our needs and interests lie. No two people will have the exact same perspective of the world and therefore perceptions need to be agreed upon to become accepted norms or universal.

Perception is like being given a set of prescription glasses that only you can see through. The factors mentioned above help to determine the prescription. The majority of people are not aware that their prescription is different to those people around them. This self-awareness is crucial if you are to become a critical thinking and thoughtful academic writer. The lenses of your “glasses” (perception) act as a filter system that is selective and helps to shape how you “see” the world – your point of view (perspective).

What We Focus On

Humans tend to focus their attention on, or perceive, what they are interested in, need, or desire. For example, have you ever had the experience where you buy something new, such as a car, accessory, new shoes, and then suddenly notice the same item everywhere you go. Suddenly you’re surrounded, whereas previously you may not have noticed these things. This is because your attention or interest is diverted. Another example is someone who is fixated on a physical attribute, such as a short person always noticing tall people because they wish they were taller, or a women noticing other women’s long hair because they wish their hair was longer. This type of perception is based on desire . Trying to find someone in a crowd of people may be based on need , as you scan the crowd for the person you don’t notice the many other things occurring in the crowd. Your perception is filtering out unnecessary or useless information.

Academic Focus

Focusing on elements that are most meaningful to us also occurs in our academic reading and writing . This can be beneficial if we are skimming and scanning a source for information, however, it can also be detrimental if it means we are skipping over (filtering) useful information because it sits outside our preformed perspective (point of view).

It is important to read broadly on a topic when preparing for an assignment because no two writers will have the same perspective. Yes, they will share key theories or theorists, yet they will always bring their own interpretation into their writing – their voice ( see Chapter 20); their “glasses” lead them to make different choices when writing. So too, your “glasses” will filter information and shape your academic writing. The key to unbiased writing is reflective practice and to be alert to your own preformed perceptions. Be open to new ways of thinking and viewing the world through use of your critical thinking skills, plus analysing a text to identify biases.

Also be aware that feelings and emotions can influence the way we interpret events and experiences. That is why it is so important to leave emotive language out of academic writing and maintain an objective, academic tone and language.

Knowledge of your topic should have the biggest influence on your academic writing. This will enable you to present an informed perspective of your own, plus multiple perspectives that you may have identified from other writers through researching the topic.

Avoid Bias Writing

There are a range of things students can do to help eliminate bias from their academic writing.

• Assumptions are often gender-based, race-based, or age-based. Do not assume that academic writers are white, male, middle to upper class persons. For example, search for information about the author of a journal article so that you do not inadvertently refer to them by the wrong gender pronoun. Lecturers may get agitated when you refer to a key female theorist as “he” in your assignment. Avoid stereotyping Asians as good at math or African Americans as good at sports and so on. Do not assume that all children are innocent and that all elderly people need help.
• Add details only when they are contextually called for, otherwise leave stereotypes out of your academic writing . For example, instead of writing “The disabled boy did well in his exam”, simply state “The boy did well in his exam.” Instead of writing “Not surprisingly, the Sudanese man came first in his sprint race”, eliminate the race-based assumption or stereotype, “The man came first in his sprint race.”
• Bias can be both negative and positive and your own experiences or perceptions will shape your perspectives .
• Also avoid first person plural pronouns that assume the reader holds the same perspective you do; words such as we, us, and our are indicators of personal bias that the writer believes their reader shares.
• Do not make assertions that include the words “all” or “never” . For example, “ All educators incorporate student feedback into their lesson planning”, when a more accurate statement might be “ Some teachers regularly review student feedback when considering their lesson planning.” This second sentence acknowledges that not all teachers work the same way.
• Given that your claims will be non-personal, they should be academically supported by balanced and nonbiased sources.
• Be a critical thinker when reading and check for biases within the research. Who or what is being ignored or excluded? Is the source overtly negative (against) or positive (for) towards the topic you are researching?
• The aim is to demonstrate that your perspective (point of view) is reasonable based on objective evidence and well-reasoned argument, not subjective perceptions.
• Choose gender neutral pronouns such as they and their .
• Avoid inadvertently using sexist terms that are deeply entrenched in our culture, such as chairman instead of chairperson, mothering instead of parenting, and mankind instead of humankind.
• This point is also related to assumptions (point 1) in that society traditionally appoints certain roles to certain genders. For example, the majority of nurses and teachers are female; the majority of police are male. Again, do not let your assumptions take over. Therefore, the use of gender-neutral terms indicates that different genders can and are in the same job description or role.

In conclusion, in order to be a good academic writer, you must be self-aware and self-reflective. Examine your own perceptions and perspectives to highlight and eliminate biases in your writing. Also, be critical thinkers when you are reading for academic research and mindful of the biases created by authors due to their own interest, need, or desire.

Inclination or prejudice for or against one particular area or subject. A systematic distortion.

characterized by or pertaining to emotions; used to produce an emotional response

Academic Writing Skills Copyright © 2021 by Patricia Williamson is licensed under a Creative Commons Attribution-NonCommercial-ShareAlike 4.0 International License , except where otherwise noted.

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Objective vs. Subjective – What’s the Difference?

Home » Objective vs. Subjective – What’s the Difference?

In today’s climate of widespread, often heated disagreement, the ability to successfully distinguish facts from opinions is more important than ever. Effective arguments include both factual observations and value judgements based on those facts.

In this way, arguments contain both objective and subjective statements. But which is which?

It is important to note that both objective and subjective have multiple senses. In this article, I will focus on their use as they relate to the concepts of objectivity and subjectivity in the philosophy of knowledge, or in simpler terms, to facts and opinions.

Since this site is devoted to writing and language use, I would be remiss not to include a discussion on objective and subjective as grammatical senses, as well.

What is the Difference Between Objective and Subjective?

In this article, I will compare objective vs. subjective . I will use each word in an example sentence to illustrate its proper context.

Plus, I will give you a useful memory tool that will help you decide whether something is objective or subjective .

When to Use Objective

Here are some example sentences,

• The journalist strived to engage in objective reporting.
• “Before we can proceed, we need an objective assessment of the facts of the case,” said the detective.
• “I want an objective analysis of our cash flow problems on my desk by Monday morning,” said the board chair.
• In other words, the model is purely objective and ignores outside factors like personnel, coaching and motivation. – The Wall Street Journal

In grammar, objective means referring to nouns or pronouns used as the object in a sentence . Also, see article on objective pronouns .

When to Use Subjective

For example,

• “My subjective stance,” wrote the columnist, “is that the pasta was not very delicious.”
• Journalists should not allow subjective views to contaminate hard news reporting.
• “The article suffers from subjective interpretations of data, and we reject it from publication in this journal,” wrote a peer reviewer.
• Measuring corruption is difficult and subjective, but in 2015 the group compiled a Corruption Perceptions Index that ranks 168 countries based on the perception of corruption in the public sector. – The New York Times

With regard to sentence-level grammar, subjective refers to nouns or pronouns used as the subject of a sentence. Also, see article on subjective pronouns .

Trick to Remember the Difference

Here is a helpful trick to remember subjective vs. objective . Since objective and observation both begin with the letter O , you can use this letter to link the words together in your mind.

Also, subjective and feelings both contain the letter S , which you can use as an additional mnemonic.

Is it objective or subjective? Objective and subjective are adjectives that refer to unbiased observations and biased evaluations , respectively. They each also have a grammatical sense, where they refer to the function and placement of nouns and pronouns in sentences.

• Something that is objective is not influenced by feelings or personal biases.
• Something that is subjective is up for personal interpretation and subject to personal feelings.

Since both subjective and feelings contain the letter S , you can use this shared feature as a mnemonic to help you remember which word is which.

If you still need help, remember to check this site for a quick refresher, as well as any time you need help with a difficult writing topic.

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The Subjective Essay Based on Your Personal Opinion and Our Writing Guide

A subjective essay is a paper that contains the author’s own opinion that is yours if you deal with it now, no one else from your surrounding. Even authoritative authors stand on the sidelines, except the case when you want to refer to quotes from their works. A subjective essay does not contain a detailed investigation and is based exceptionally on the opinion of the author, unlike an objective essay. However, this type of essay, as well as other types, consists of 3 basic parts that are the introduction, the main body, and the conclusion.

It is a perfect kind of an essay for the expression of philosophical or social ideas. One of these ideas is expressed in this article. Look at it and make proper conclusions on what your essay can include. Additionally, all the peculiarities are provided in details which you should keep in mind while writing a subjective essay on your own. Let’s go!

A Subjective Answer to a Question of Taste

A good subjective essay will look like this if the theme of the essay would be “A Question of Taste”:

“Everyone has his own opinion on the matter of fashion. Some people believe that fashion is something that is worth adhering to or even obeying. They carefully choose the clothes and music they admire. Moreover, they buy fashion magazines and study the latest fashion trends . Nevertheless, there is another type of people. They believe that fashion does not apply to their own lives. Fashion magazines are boring for them because they do not suit their personal interests and do not develop their personality. Furthermore, they think that fashion specialists don’t affect their lives and they choose clothes on their own. Most often, this type of people thinks that people are chasing fashion and that such a kind of behavior is unreasonable.

In my opinion, both sides are correct in part. I believe that it is important to follow the fashion because it makes the person connected with his/her own era and the culture which is crucial for self-representation. Nonetheless, it is right to have your own style rather than blindly believe the journals. There are several arguments in favor of the fact that both views are correct in part.

First of all, many people think that fashion does not affect them and they dress the way they want. It is not true because if that were the case, some people would have dressed in corsets and a crinoline. However, modern people prefer jeans and T-shirts instead of heavy dresses and tuxedos. Thereby, it is a fact that each of us relies on the experience of modern fashion each morning.

Furthermore, some people think that everyone has to follow the fashion. For some reason, it is an established opinion that “to be fashionable” means to dress up the same way as the models do. Nonetheless, this is not quite right. The fact is that fashion should be for us, not vice versa. Fashion magazines offer the public only what society is willing to accept. Therefore, when a person buys a pink jersey, he/she makes it more fashionable without even realizing it.

Lastly, I would like to say that it is vital to find the golden mean in this matter. For a start, everyone should be aware that he/she impacts the vogue. People have to analyze fashion trends and choose the ones that suit them. Last but not least, it is important to remember that to be fashionable means to be attractive and not to wear inappropriate things just to draw people’s attention.”

3 Details to Pay Attention and Use in a Subjective Essay

Read the whole subjective essay? Now, you need to write your own essay where you are supposed to express your personal opinion. It is better to write a subjective essay without relying on someone else’s opinion (you can rely only on our professionals if you want to relieve yourself from the pressure of essay writing – it was time for ads and now go on!) So what are these details that will make your essay stand out?

• A full understanding of the essay question. Don’t rush into writing a subjective essay immediately after its assignment. Read it so that you can get the grasp the main idea that you need to write about. Avoid the situations when you start writing an essay – have written half of the necessary word/page count and, as a result, you get lost in the meaning of the topic. At least it might seem you were on the right track, but now you lose yourself in verbiage. For that reason, you shouldn’t neglect the prewriting process when you prepare an essay outline with the main points and sub-point you want to use in a future essay.
• An arsenal of creative and original essay ideas. Today, many essays are available for you. It comes easy for students to find all possible ideas for their essays – God, save the Internet! But will your essay stand out among the other students’ essays if you apply to common essay ideas? The answer is no! Your task is to be original even in your own opinions. It doesn’t mean that you should change your point of view completely. Just add an original way of expressing it on paper. Think of vivid examples from your life. Use various stylistic devices to diversify your writing.
• A subjective way of writing. Most students are used to writing papers through evidence and facts. Luckily, in subjective essays, there is no need to put all the information sources on the references list. Breath out right now as there is no pain in the neck in the form of additional formatting! However, you shouldn’t sit back. Think twice about what you’d like to say on the essay topic. And for better results in expressing your own ideas, it is a good idea to consult some articles on the given topic. But don’t tend to plagiarize the information and say, “I think the same!” Nobody can reject the fact that some opinions don’t differ, but allow all possible opinions pass through yourself so that eventually you could say, “I endorse these views, but I don’t buy into the idea that … .”

Be open to all opinions in the world, but know how to express your own – a subjective essay is the best way to learn to do it! We do all the best to demonstrate how to write a subjective essay (ever a ready essay is presented to you). Now, it is your turn to apply all the essay writing tips in practice. Good luck!

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How to Structure an Essay

Essay writing is a fundamental skill, a basic task, that is expected of those who choose to pursue their undergraduate and master’s degrees. It constitutes a key requirement for students to complete a given course credit. However, many students and early career researchers find themselves struggling with the challenge of organizing their thoughts into a coherent, engaging structure. This article is especially for those who see essay writing as a daunting task and face problems in presenting their work in an impactful way.  

Table of Contents

• Writing an essay: basic elements and some key principles  
• Essay structure template 
• Chronological structure 
• Problem-methods-solutions structure 
• Compare and contrast structures 
• Frequently asked questions on essay structure 

Read on as we delve into the basic elements of essay writing, outline key principles for organizing information, and cover some foundational features of writing essays.  

Writing an essay: basic elements and some key principles

Essays are written in a flowing and continuous pattern but with a structure of its own. An introduction, body and conclusion are integral to it. The key is to balance the amount and kind of information to be presented in each part. Various disciplines may have their own conventions or guidelines on the information to be provided in the introduction.  

A clear articulation of the context and background of the study is important, as is the definition of key terms and an outline of specific models or theories used. Readers also need to know the significance of the study and its implications for further research. Most importantly, the thesis or the main proposition should be clearly presented.  

The body of the essay is therefore organized into paragraphs that hold the main ideas and arguments and is presented and analyzed in a logical manner. Ideally, each paragraph of the body focuses on one main point or a distinct topic and must be supported by evidence and analysis. The concluding paragraph should bring back to the reader the key arguments, its significance and food for thought. It is best not to re-state all the points of the essay or introduce a new concept here. 

In other words, certain general guidelines help structure the information in the essay. The information must flow logically with the context or the background information presented in the introductory part of the essay. The arguments are built organically where each paragraph in the body of the essay deals with a different point, yet closely linked to the para preceding and following it. Importantly, when writing essays, early career researchers must be careful in ensuring that each piece of information relates to the main thesis and is a building block to the arguments. 

Essay structure template

• Introduction 
• Provide the context and share significance of the study 
• Clearly articulate the thesis statement 
• Body  
• Paragraph 1 consisting of the first main point, followed by supporting evidence and an analysis of the findings. Transitional words and phrases can be used to move to the next main point. 
• There can be as many paragraphs with the above-mentioned elements as there are points and arguments to support your thesis. 
• Conclusion  
• Bring in key ideas and discuss their significance and relevance 
• Call for action 
• References 

Essay structures

The structure of an essay can be determined by the kind of essay that is required.  

Chronological structure

Also known as the cause-and-effect approach, this is a straightforward way to structure an essay. In such essays, events are discussed sequentially, as they occurred from the earliest to the latest. A chronological structure is useful for discussing a series of events or processes such as historical analyses or narratives of events. The introduction should have the topic sentence. The body of the essay should follow a chorological progression with each para discussing a major aspect of that event with supporting evidence. It ends with a summarizing of the results of the events.  

Problem-methods-solutions structure

Where the essay focuses on a specific problem, the problem-methods-solutions structure can be used to organize the essay. This structure is ideal for essays that address complex issues. It starts with presenting the problem, the context, and thesis statement as introduction to the essay. The major part of the discussion which forms the body of the essay focuses on stating the problem and its significance, the author’s approach or methods adopted to address the problem along with its relevance, and accordingly proposing solution(s) to the identified problem. The concluding part offers a recap of the research problem, methods, and proposed solutions, emphasizing their significance and potential impact. 

Compare and contrast structures

This structure of essay writing is ideally used when two or more key subjects require a comparison of ideas, theories, or phenomena. The three crucial elements, introduction, body, and conclusion, remain the same. The introduction presents the context and the thesis statement. The body of the essay seeks to focus on and highlight differences between the subjects, supported by evidence and analysis. The conclusion is used to summarize the key points of comparison and contrast, offering insights into the significance of the analysis.  

Depending on how the subjects will be discussed, the body of the essay can be organized according to the block method or the alternating method. In the block method, one para discusses one subject and the next para the other subject. In the alternative method, both subjects are discussed in one para based on a particular topic or issue followed by the next para on another issue and so on.  

Frequently asked questions on essay structure

An essay structure serves as a framework for presenting ideas coherently and logically. It comprises three crucial elements: an introduction that communicates the context, topic, and thesis statement; the body focusing on the main points and arguments supported with appropriate evidence followed by its analysis; and a conclusion that ties together the main points and its importance .  

An essay structure well-defined essay structure enhances clarity, coherence, and readability, and is crucial for organizing ideas and arguments to effectively communicate key aspects of a chosen topic. It allows readers to better understand arguments presented and demonstrates the author’s ability to organize and present information systematically. 

Yes, while expert recommend following an essay structure, early career researchers may choose how best to adapt standard essay structures to communicate and share their research in an impactful and engaging way. However, do keep in mind that deviating too far from established structures can hinder comprehension and weaken the overall effectiveness of the essay,  By understanding the basic elements of essay writing and employing appropriate structures such as chronological, problem-methods-solutions, or compare and contrast, researchers can effectively organize their ideas and communicate their findings with clarity and precision. 

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Objective vs subjective writing: all you need to know.

In the realm of writing, there are two distinct styles that authors can employ - objective and subjective. These two styles differ in their approach and purpose, and understanding the difference between them is crucial for any writer looking to effectively convey their message. In this blog, we will delve into the definition of objective vs subjective writing, explore the differences between the two styles, examine when to use each style, weigh the pros and cons of objective and subjective writing, and provide tips for crafting both styles. By the end of this blog, you will have a comprehensive understanding of objective and subjective writing and be equipped to employ these styles in your own writing endeavours .

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The definition of objective vs subjective.

Objective writing is characterised by presenting information in a neutral and unbiased manner, devoid of personal opinions or emotions. The objective writer strives to present facts and evidence, allowing readers to form their own opinions based on the provided information.

Objective writing is often seen in news articles, scientific papers, and academic essays. In these forms of writing, the author's goal is to provide an accurate and balanced account of the subject matter. By presenting information objectively, the writer allows readers to make informed decisions and draw their own conclusions.

For example, in a news article about a recent political event, an objective writer would report the facts and provide statements from different perspectives. They would avoid injecting their personal opinions or biases, allowing readers to form their own judgments based on the presented information.

On the other hand, subjective writing reflects the author's personal opinions, thoughts, and emotions. It is inherently biased, as the writer uses their own perspective to shape the narrative and evoke specific feelings in the reader.

Subjective writing is commonly found in personal essays, memoirs, and editorials. In these forms of writing, the author's purpose is to express their unique viewpoint and share their personal experiences. By infusing their writing with subjectivity, the author aims to connect with readers on an emotional level and elicit a particular response.

For instance, in a personal essay about overcoming adversity, a subjective writer would narrate their own challenges and triumphs, sharing their emotional journey. They would express their personal opinions and reflections, aiming to inspire and resonate with readers who may have faced similar obstacles.

It is important to note that both objective and subjective writing have their place in different contexts. Objective writing is valued in fields where accuracy and impartiality are crucial, such as journalism and scientific research. On the other hand, subjective writing allows for personal expression and can be powerful in conveying emotions and connecting with readers on a deeper level.

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What is the Difference Between Objective and Subjective Writing?

The key difference between objective and subjective writing lies in the level of personal bias and emotional involvement present in each style. Objective writing maintains a detached and impartial tone, while subjective writing embraces the author's perspective and emotions.

Objective writing often relies on factual evidence, logical reasoning, and expert opinions to present a balanced view of the topic. This style is commonly used in news reporting, scientific research papers, and textbooks.

For instance, in news reporting, objective writing ensures that journalists present the facts without personal opinions or emotions. They strive to provide an unbiased account of events, allowing readers to form their own opinions based on the information presented. Scientific research papers also employ objective writing to present findings and conclusions based on rigorous experimentation and analysis. By relying on evidence and logical reasoning, objective writing fosters credibility and trustworthiness.

On the other hand, subjective writing is frequently found in personal essays, memoirs, and creative writing pieces. It allows the writer to express themselves, share personal experiences, and engage the reader on a more emotional level.

Personal essays , for example, provide a platform for individuals to reflect on their own thoughts, feelings, and experiences. By incorporating personal anecdotes and reflections, subjective writing creates a connection between the author and the reader, evoking empathy and understanding. Memoirs, too, rely heavily on subjective writing, as they recount the author's life story and delve into their inner thoughts and emotions.

Moreover, subjective writing is often employed in creative writing pieces such as poetry and fiction. These genres allow authors to explore their imagination, create vivid worlds, and evoke various emotions in the reader. By infusing subjective elements into their writing, authors can transport readers into different realms, eliciting joy, sadness, or even fear.

Ultimately, the choice between objective and subjective writing depends on the purpose and context of the piece. While objective writing aims to provide an impartial view of a topic, subjective writing invites readers to experience the author's unique perspective and emotions. Both styles have their merits and can be used effectively to convey information or evoke a particular response from the reader.

Achieving a Balance between the Two Writing Styles

While objective and subjective writing may seem like opposing forces, achieving a balance between the two can lead to powerful and engaging writing. Incorporating elements of both styles can help captivate the reader while maintaining credibility and reliability.

Objective writing, often associated with news articles or scientific papers, focuses on presenting information in a neutral and unbiased manner. It relies on facts, evidence, and logical reasoning to convey a message. However, purely objective writing can sometimes feel dry and detached, lacking the emotional connection that subjective writing can provide.

On the other hand, subjective writing allows the writer to express personal opinions, emotions, and experiences. It adds a human touch to the text, making it relatable and engaging. Subjective writing often includes personal anecdotes, descriptive language, and expressive metaphors that can evoke powerful emotions in the reader.

By grounding subjective writing in objective facts and supplementing objective writing with personal anecdotes or examples, writers can strike a balance that informs and engages the reader in a compelling manner. For example, when discussing a scientific study, an objective writer can introduce the topic with a concise overview of the research methodology and results. Then, they can incorporate subjective elements by sharing their personal thoughts on the implications of the study or how it relates to their own experiences.

Similarly, when writing a personal essay or opinion piece, a writer can start by sharing a personal story or experience that hooks the reader's attention. They can then support their subjective perspective with objective evidence, such as statistics or expert opinions, to strengthen their argument and enhance their credibility.

Striking a balance between objective and subjective writing is not only about mixing the two styles but also about knowing when and how to use them effectively. It requires careful consideration of the target audience, the purpose of the writing, and the desired impact on the reader. By skillfully blending objective and subjective elements, writers can create a harmonious and persuasive piece of writing that resonates with their readers.

In conclusion, achieving a balance between objective and subjective writing is a skill that can greatly enhance the effectiveness of any piece of writing. By incorporating elements of both styles, writers can inform, engage, and connect with their readers on a deeper level. So, whether you are writing a news article, a research paper, or a personal essay, remember to find the right balance between objectivity and subjectivity to create a compelling and impactful piece of writing.

When to Use Objective Writing

Objective writing is best suited for situations where presenting facts, evidence, and logical arguments is crucial. It is commonly used in academic writing, scientific research, and news reporting. Objectivity ensures that the information presented is reliable, trustworthy, and free from personal bias.

When to Use Subjective Writing

Subjective writing shines when the writer wants to communicate their personal experiences, emotions, and opinions. It adds depth and authenticity to storytelling , making it an ideal choice for personal essays, memoirs, and creative writing pieces where the author's unique perspective is the focal point.

Pros and Cons of Objective Writing

Objective writing has several advantages. It allows readers to come to their own conclusions based on the presented information, promoting critical thinking. Additionally, it lends credibility to the writer and their work by demonstrating a commitment to accuracy and research. However, objective writing can sometimes be perceived as dry or lacking emotional impact, as it focuses solely on presenting facts and evidence.

Pros and Cons of Subjective Writing

Subjective writing, with its emphasis on personal expression and emotional appeal, has the ability to deeply resonate with readers. It allows writers to connect on a more intimate level, fostering empathy and understanding. However, subjective writing is more prone to criticism regarding its objectivity and potential bias.

Tips for Crafting Objective Writing

To craft effective objective writing, it is important to prioritise factual accuracy and substantiate claims with reliable sources. Organise your thoughts in a logical manner, providing clear evidence and supporting arguments. Use concise and straightforward language to ensure clear communication.

Tips for Crafting Subjective Writing

When crafting subjective writing, embrace your unique perspective and use vivid language to evoke emotions in your reader. Share personal anecdotes and experiences that help illustrate your point of view. However, remember to strike a balance between personal expression and maintaining coherence in your writing.

Objective vs Subjective in Writing

Objective and subjective writing styles can be employed in various genres and forms of writing. While objective writing is often associated with academic and professional contexts, subjective writing finds its place in personal narratives, creative endeavours, and opinion pieces. By understanding the strengths and weaknesses of each style, writers can effectively tailor their approach to suit the desired outcome.

Other Uses of Objective vs Subjective

While objective and subjective writing styles are commonly discussed in the context of written communication, it is important to note that these styles extend beyond writing alone. Objective and subjective perspectives can influence various aspects of life, decision-making, and even interpersonal relationships. Understanding and recognizing the differences between objective and subjective viewpoints can lead to more effective communication overall.

Objective and Subjective Writing Are Both Valuable

Whether you are presenting research findings, sharing personal experiences, or engaging readers with creative storytelling, both objective and subjective writing have their place and value. The ability to employ these two writing styles selectively allows for versatile and impactful communication. Remember, the key lies in understanding the context, purpose, and audience of your writing.

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• How to write an argumentative essay | Examples & tips

How to Write an Argumentative Essay | Examples & Tips

Published on July 24, 2020 by Jack Caulfield . Revised on July 23, 2023.

An argumentative essay expresses an extended argument for a particular thesis statement . The author takes a clearly defined stance on their subject and builds up an evidence-based case for it.

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Table of contents

When do you write an argumentative essay, approaches to argumentative essays, introducing your argument, the body: developing your argument, concluding your argument, other interesting articles, frequently asked questions about argumentative essays.

You might be assigned an argumentative essay as a writing exercise in high school or in a composition class. The prompt will often ask you to argue for one of two positions, and may include terms like “argue” or “argument.” It will frequently take the form of a question.

The prompt may also be more open-ended in terms of the possible arguments you could make.

Argumentative writing at college level

At university, the vast majority of essays or papers you write will involve some form of argumentation. For example, both rhetorical analysis and literary analysis essays involve making arguments about texts.

In this context, you won’t necessarily be told to write an argumentative essay—but making an evidence-based argument is an essential goal of most academic writing, and this should be your default approach unless you’re told otherwise.

Examples of argumentative essay prompts

At a university level, all the prompts below imply an argumentative essay as the appropriate response.

Your research should lead you to develop a specific position on the topic. The essay then argues for that position and aims to convince the reader by presenting your evidence, evaluation and analysis.

• Don’t just list all the effects you can think of.
• Do develop a focused argument about the overall effect and why it matters, backed up by evidence from sources.
• Don’t just provide a selection of data on the measures’ effectiveness.
• Do build up your own argument about which kinds of measures have been most or least effective, and why.
• Don’t just analyze a random selection of doppelgänger characters.
• Do form an argument about specific texts, comparing and contrasting how they express their thematic concerns through doppelgänger characters.

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An argumentative essay should be objective in its approach; your arguments should rely on logic and evidence, not on exaggeration or appeals to emotion.

There are many possible approaches to argumentative essays, but there are two common models that can help you start outlining your arguments: The Toulmin model and the Rogerian model.

Toulmin arguments

The Toulmin model consists of four steps, which may be repeated as many times as necessary for the argument:

• Make a claim
• Provide the grounds (evidence) for the claim
• Explain the warrant (how the grounds support the claim)
• Discuss possible rebuttals to the claim, identifying the limits of the argument and showing that you have considered alternative perspectives

The Toulmin model is a common approach in academic essays. You don’t have to use these specific terms (grounds, warrants, rebuttals), but establishing a clear connection between your claims and the evidence supporting them is crucial in an argumentative essay.

Say you’re making an argument about the effectiveness of workplace anti-discrimination measures. You might:

• Claim that unconscious bias training does not have the desired results, and resources would be better spent on other approaches
• Cite data to support your claim
• Explain how the data indicates that the method is ineffective
• Anticipate objections to your claim based on other data, indicating whether these objections are valid, and if not, why not.

Rogerian arguments

The Rogerian model also consists of four steps you might repeat throughout your essay:

• Discuss what the opposing position gets right and why people might hold this position
• Highlight the problems with this position
• Present your own position , showing how it addresses these problems
• Suggest a possible compromise —what elements of your position would proponents of the opposing position benefit from adopting?

This model builds up a clear picture of both sides of an argument and seeks a compromise. It is particularly useful when people tend to disagree strongly on the issue discussed, allowing you to approach opposing arguments in good faith.

Say you want to argue that the internet has had a positive impact on education. You might:

• Acknowledge that students rely too much on websites like Wikipedia
• Argue that teachers view Wikipedia as more unreliable than it really is
• Suggest that Wikipedia’s system of citations can actually teach students about referencing
• Suggest critical engagement with Wikipedia as a possible assignment for teachers who are skeptical of its usefulness.

You don’t necessarily have to pick one of these models—you may even use elements of both in different parts of your essay—but it’s worth considering them if you struggle to structure your arguments.

Regardless of which approach you take, your essay should always be structured using an introduction , a body , and a conclusion .

Like other academic essays, an argumentative essay begins with an introduction . The introduction serves to capture the reader’s interest, provide background information, present your thesis statement , and (in longer essays) to summarize the structure of the body.

Hover over different parts of the example below to see how a typical introduction works.

The spread of the internet has had a world-changing effect, not least on the world of education. The use of the internet in academic contexts is on the rise, and its role in learning is hotly debated. For many teachers who did not grow up with this technology, its effects seem alarming and potentially harmful. This concern, while understandable, is misguided. The negatives of internet use are outweighed by its critical benefits for students and educators—as a uniquely comprehensive and accessible information source; a means of exposure to and engagement with different perspectives; and a highly flexible learning environment.

The body of an argumentative essay is where you develop your arguments in detail. Here you’ll present evidence, analysis, and reasoning to convince the reader that your thesis statement is true.

In the standard five-paragraph format for short essays, the body takes up three of your five paragraphs. In longer essays, it will be more paragraphs, and might be divided into sections with headings.

Each paragraph covers its own topic, introduced with a topic sentence . Each of these topics must contribute to your overall argument; don’t include irrelevant information.

This example paragraph takes a Rogerian approach: It first acknowledges the merits of the opposing position and then highlights problems with that position.

Hover over different parts of the example to see how a body paragraph is constructed.

A common frustration for teachers is students’ use of Wikipedia as a source in their writing. Its prevalence among students is not exaggerated; a survey found that the vast majority of the students surveyed used Wikipedia (Head & Eisenberg, 2010). An article in The Guardian stresses a common objection to its use: “a reliance on Wikipedia can discourage students from engaging with genuine academic writing” (Coomer, 2013). Teachers are clearly not mistaken in viewing Wikipedia usage as ubiquitous among their students; but the claim that it discourages engagement with academic sources requires further investigation. This point is treated as self-evident by many teachers, but Wikipedia itself explicitly encourages students to look into other sources. Its articles often provide references to academic publications and include warning notes where citations are missing; the site’s own guidelines for research make clear that it should be used as a starting point, emphasizing that users should always “read the references and check whether they really do support what the article says” (“Wikipedia:Researching with Wikipedia,” 2020). Indeed, for many students, Wikipedia is their first encounter with the concepts of citation and referencing. The use of Wikipedia therefore has a positive side that merits deeper consideration than it often receives.

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An argumentative essay ends with a conclusion that summarizes and reflects on the arguments made in the body.

No new arguments or evidence appear here, but in longer essays you may discuss the strengths and weaknesses of your argument and suggest topics for future research. In all conclusions, you should stress the relevance and importance of your argument.

Hover over the following example to see the typical elements of a conclusion.

The internet has had a major positive impact on the world of education; occasional pitfalls aside, its value is evident in numerous applications. The future of teaching lies in the possibilities the internet opens up for communication, research, and interactivity. As the popularity of distance learning shows, students value the flexibility and accessibility offered by digital education, and educators should fully embrace these advantages. The internet’s dangers, real and imaginary, have been documented exhaustively by skeptics, but the internet is here to stay; it is time to focus seriously on its potential for good.

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!

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An argumentative essay tends to be a longer essay involving independent research, and aims to make an original argument about a topic. Its thesis statement makes a contentious claim that must be supported in an objective, evidence-based way.

An expository essay also aims to be objective, but it doesn’t have to make an original argument. Rather, it aims to explain something (e.g., a process or idea) in a clear, concise way. Expository essays are often shorter assignments and rely less on research.

At college level, you must properly cite your sources in all essays , research papers , and other academic texts (except exams and in-class exercises).

Add a citation whenever you quote , paraphrase , or summarize information or ideas from a source. You should also give full source details in a bibliography or reference list at the end of your text.

The exact format of your citations depends on which citation style you are instructed to use. The most common styles are APA , MLA , and Chicago .

The majority of the essays written at university are some sort of argumentative essay . Unless otherwise specified, you can assume that the goal of any essay you’re asked to write is argumentative: To convince the reader of your position using evidence and reasoning.

In composition classes you might be given assignments that specifically test your ability to write an argumentative essay. Look out for prompts including instructions like “argue,” “assess,” or “discuss” to see if this is the goal.

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Caulfield, J. (2023, July 23). How to Write an Argumentative Essay | Examples & Tips. Scribbr. Retrieved June 27, 2024, from https://www.scribbr.com/academic-essay/argumentative-essay/

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Microsoft 365 Life Hacks > Writing > Objective vs. subjective: What’s the difference?

Objective vs. subjective: What’s the difference?

When you’re writing, your perspective is the fundamental basis of your ideas and what you’re trying to convey to the reader. Before you make a statement or issue an opinion, consider how that argument is formed: whether it’s formed from objective versus subjective information—as these opposing concepts can make a world of difference in your integrity. Learn what consists of an objective or subjective perspective and see how it applies to journalism or opinions.

What is an objective statement?

Objectivity is a perspective closest to factual, measurable data or observations. An objective statement is impartial, devoid of personal opinions or biases, and holds universal validity. Scientific statements such as “the freezing point of water is 32 degrees Fahrenheit” are objective because they’ve been proven through experimentation and generally accepted as fact.

What is a subjective statement?

In contrast, subjectivity is based on personal opinions, feelings, or perspectives. A subjective perspective is influenced by one’s own individual experiences and emotions, as well as their interpretations of both. Therefore, a subjective opinion is unique to each person. If you said, “It’s too cold to go outside,” that’s a subjective statement: while you believe it’s cold, someone else might think it’s not as bad.

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How to navigate objective statements and subjective opinions

The ability to determine whether a statement is subjective or objective has vast implications in our modern, media-driven world: objectivity is the basis of journalistic or scientific integrity, while subjectivity is based on personality and one’s ability to influence others.

Subjective statements are personal, which means that they may be biased or judgmental. This might not make it untrue: after all, one’s opinion can be valid. However, if you’re looking for the veracity of facts, without the influence of an individual’s personal viewpoint, it’s vitally important to recognize when a statement is subjective or objective.

Subjective writing will expand past the basic facts of a situation (the “who,” “what,” “where,” “when,” “why,” and “how” of reporting) to add such elements as colorful language, personal statements, or phrases such as “I believe” or “I think.”

In fields like science or academia, objectivity is one of the most fundamental standards: experiments and their conclusions are based on observable facts and rigorous testing to ensure accuracy, while historic data such as years and locations contribute to reliability.

Conversely, art or personal experiences often express subjective statements. The emotional impact of a painting or poem, or one’s response to events both personal and global, can vary among individuals based on their unique perspectives.

Genres and mediums for subjective statements may include:

• Art and entertainment reviews
• Personal essays
• Op-ed columns
• Advice columns

In contrast, you’ll find objective statements in the following:

• Scientific or medical journals
• Research papers
• Academic writing
• Encyclopedias
• Investigative journalism
• Historical texts

Ultimately, objective statements deal with the cold, hard facts to reinforce credibility, transparency, and accurate reporting—while subjective statements delve (or expand) into personal viewpoints and emotions. Recognizing and balancing both facets is essential for informed decision-making, such as deciding who or what to vote for in an election, avoiding fallacies , or giving a speech during a debate.

Next time you encounter these terms, remember that the objective is what can be proven, while the subjective is how it feels or is perceived. Understand the objective for accuracy and appreciate the subjective for opinions and influence—it’s about embracing the multitude of ways we experience and comprehend the world around us. For more ways to gain perspective in your work, check out writing tips such as how to avoid making circular arguments , understanding oxymorons , or noting the differences between metaphor and simile .

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Writing objectively How and when to use an impersonal tone

For another look at the same content, check out the video on YouTube (also available on Youku ). There is a worksheet (with answers and teacher's notes) for this video.

Academic writing is generally impersonal and objective in tone. This section considers what objective writing is , how objective academic writing is , then presents several ways to make your writing more objective . There is also an academic article , to show authentic examples of objective language, and a checklist at the end, that you can use to check the objectivity of your own writing.

What is objective writing?

Objective writing places the emphasis on facts, information and arguments, and can be contrasted with subjective writing which relates to personal feelings and biases. Objective writing uses third person pronouns (it, he, she, they), in contrast to subjective writing which uses first person pronouns (I, we) or second person pronoun (you).

How objective is academic writing?

Although many academic writers believe that objectivity is an essential feature of academic writing, conventions are changing and how much this is true depends on the subject of study. An objective, impersonal tone remains essential in the natural sciences (chemistry, biology, physics), which deal with quantitative (i.e. numerical) methods and data. In such subjects, the research is written from the perspective of an impartial observer, who has no emotional connection to the research. Use of a more subjective tone is increasingly acceptable in areas such as naturalist research, business, management, literary studies, theology and philosophical writing, which tend to make greater use of qualitative rather than quantitative data. Reflective writing is increasingly used on university courses and is highly subjective in nature.

How to write objectively

There are many aspects of writing which contribute to an objective tone. The following are some of the main ones.

Use passive

Objective tone is most often connected with the use of passive, which removes the actor from the sentence. For example:

• The experiment was conducted.
• I conducted the experiment.
• The length of the string was measured using a ruler.
• I measured the length of the string with a ruler.

Most academic writers agree that passive should not be overused, and it is generally preferrable for writing to use the active instead, though this is not always possible if the tone is to remain impersonal without use of I or other pronouns. There is, however, a special group of verbs in English called ergative verbs , which are used in the active voice without the actor of the sentence. Examples are dissolve, increase, decrease, lower, and start . For example:

• The white powder dissolved in the liquid.
• I dissolved the white powder in the liquid.
• The white powder was dissolved in the liquid.
• The tax rate increased in 2010.
• We increased the tax rate in 2010.
• The tax rate was increased in 2010.
• The building work started six months ago.
• The workers started the building work six months ago.
• The building work was started six months ago.

Focus on the evidence

Another way to use active voice while remaining objective is to focus on the evidence, and make this the subject of the sentence. For example:

• The findings show...
• The data illustrate...
• The graph displays...
• The literature indicates...

Use evidence from sources

Evidence from sources is a common feature of objective academic writing. This generally uses the third person active. For example:

• Newbold (2021) shows that... He further demonstrates the relationship between...
• Greene and Atwood (2013) suggest that...

Use impersonal constructions

Impersonal constructions with It and There are common ways to write objectively. These structures are often used with hedges (to soften the information) and boosters (to strengthen it) . This kind of language allows the writer to show how strongly they feel about the information, without using emotive language, which should be avoided in academic writing.

• It is clear that... (booster)
• It appears that... (hedge)
• I believe that...
• There are three reasons for this.
• I have identified three reasons for this.
• There are several disadvantages of this approach.
• This is a terrible idea.

Personify the writing

Another way to write objectively is to personify the writing (essay, report, etc.) and make this the subject of the sentence.

• This essay considers the role of diesel emissions in global warming.
• I will discuss the role of diesel emissions in global warming.
• This report has shown that...
• I have shown that...

In short, objective writing means focusing on the information and evidence. While it remains a common feature of academic writing, especially in natural sciences, a subjective tone is increasingly acceptable in fields which make use of qualitative data, as well as in reflective writing. Objectivity in writing can be achieved by:

• using passive;
• focusing on the evidence ( The findings show... );
• referring to sources ( Newbold (2021) shows... );
• using impersonal constructions with It and There ;
• using hedges and boosters to show strength of feeling, rather than emotive language;
• personifying the writing ( This report shows... ).

Bailey, S. (2000). Academic Writing. Abingdon: RoutledgeFalmer

Bennett, K. (2009) 'English academic style manuals: A survey', Journal of English for Academic Purposes , 8 (2009) 43-54.

Cottrell, S. (2013). The Study Skills Handbook (4th ed.) , Basingstoke: Palgrave MacMillan.

Hinkel, E. (2004). Teaching Academic ESL Writing: Practical Techniques in Vocabulary and Grammar . Mahwah: Lawrence Erlbaum Associates Inc Publishers.

Hyland, K. (2006) English for Academic Purposes: An advanced resource book . Abingdon: Routledge.

Jordan, R. R. (1997) English for academic purposes: A guide and resource book for teachers . Cambridge: Cambridge University Press.

Example article

Below is an authentic academic article. It has been abbreviated by using the abstract and extracts from the article; however, the language is unchanged from the original. Click on the different areas (in the shaded boxes) to highlight the different objective features.

Title: Obesity bias and stigma, attitudes and beliefs among entry-level physiotherapy students in the Republic of Ireland: a cross sectional study. Source: : https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S0031940621000353

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Below is a checklist for using objectivity in academic writing. Use it to check your writing, or as a peer to help. Note: you do not need to use all the ways given here.

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Author: Sheldon Smith    ‖    Last modified: 05 February 2024.

Sheldon Smith is the founder and editor of EAPFoundation.com. He has been teaching English for Academic Purposes since 2004. Find out more about him in the about section and connect with him on Twitter , Facebook and LinkedIn .

Compare & contrast essays examine the similarities of two or more objects, and the differences.

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Problem-solution essays are a sub-type of SPSE essays (Situation, Problem, Solution, Evaluation).

Transition signals are useful in achieving good cohesion and coherence in your writing.

Reporting verbs are used to link your in-text citations to the information cited.

What Is a Subjective Essay?

Ashley walton, 26 sep 2017.

A subjective essay includes your personal perspective and opinion, without the need to seem objective or base your essay on research. Many subjective essays are descriptive, meaning they describe how something looks or feels. These can include essays on lifestyles, backgrounds or attitudes. Other subjective essays take the form of opinion editorials, which try to convince the reader of a particular point of view. Whatever the purpose, good subjective essays have several elements in common.

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A good subjective essay will incorporate vivid descriptions. Pepper your writing with figurative language, such as simile, imagery or personification, to make it interesting.

Similes compare one thing to another using “like” or “as.” An example is “You’re as beautiful as a summer day.” Imagery means using visual language to describe something, including sensory perceptions. Personification is giving abstract human qualities to inanimate objects. An example is when Keats says a Grecian urn is “a sylvan historian.” Descriptive language will pull in your readers and help them empathize with your essay’s points.

In contrast to an objective essay, a subjective essay should brim with opinion. Instead of trying to remain an objective outsider, you should include your personal opinion, experiences and reasons. An opinion editorial is a common type of subjective essay, wherein you try to convince the reader of your point of view, whether you are reviewing the latest film or explaining why you think the legal drinking age should be changed. Opinion editorials often discuss political, community and local issues that directly affect you as a citizen.

A subjective essay should highlight your voice and tone. With many academic papers, such as a rhetorical essay or a research paper, you want to keep a neutral and formal tone. In contrast, with a subjective essay, you want your personality to shine through in your writing. Don’t be afraid to share personal anecdotes or use more conversational language than you would in a research paper. Your voice can be a valuable asset, endearing yourself to the reader and making your essay interesting to read.

The secret to any good essay is cohesion, or a good flow. You want your essay to make logical sense as it flows from sentence to sentence and paragraph to paragraph. Use topic sentences introducing the point of each paragraph, and use transition phrases between sentences to transition from idea to idea. Just because a subjective essay is less stylistically strict than other types of academic papers does not mean it should lack substance. Your overall paper should have a point that it’s trying to prove, and each paragraph should work to prove that point.

• 1 Hunter College Reading/Writing Center: The Writing Process: Rhetorical Strategies: Description
• 2 Dr. Wheeler’s: Literary Terms
• 3 Grammar Guide: Tone: A Matter of Attitude
• 4 Purdue Online Writing Lab: Revising for Cohesion
• 5 Academia.edu: Elements of an Effective Essay; Dustin Morrow

About the Author

Ashley Walton holds a master's degree in English and has taught various courses at Brigham Young University, including rhetoric in new media and transatlantic literature. She has worked as an online copywriter for the last five years, and has eight years of copy editing experience.

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What is Objective Writing? Why Neutral Language Matters

What is objective writing? Master the skill of delivering unbiased information effectively with proven techniques and examples.

In today’s world, the way we present ideas and data can shape opinions, influence decisions, and impact the world around us. One of the most important principles of communication is objectivity. Objective writing is writing that presents information in a neutral and unbiased way. This means avoiding personal opinions, beliefs, or biases. It also means avoiding using emotional language or making subjective statements. Objective writing is typically clearer and easier to understand than subjective writing. It is also seen as more credible and trustworthy. This is because readers know that the writer is not trying to persuade them or influence their opinions.

Related article: Mastering Critical Reading: Uncover The Art Of Analyzing Texts

In a world where there is so much information available, it is more important than ever to be able to distinguish between objective and subjective writing. Objective writing is essential for fostering critical thinking and making informed decisions. This article will explore the importance of objective writing and its role in communication. We will look at how objective writing can be used to foster credibility, deliver accurate information, and promote critical thinking.

What Is Objective Writing?

Objective writing is a style of writing that presents information in a neutral and unbiased manner, without expressing personal opinions, emotions, or beliefs. The primary goal of objective writing is to provide facts, evidence, and logical reasoning to inform the reader without trying to persuade or influence their opinion.

About the question “What is objective writing?”, the author, in this kind of writing, strives to eliminate any potential bias, avoid making value judgments, and maintain a professional and impartial tone. This type of writing is commonly used in news reporting, scientific research papers, academic essays , and other forms of non-fiction writing.

Benefits Of Writing Objectively

Clarity and Understanding: Objective writing presents information in a clear and unbiased manner, allowing readers to conceive the facts without being influenced by the writer’s personal opinions or emotions. This promotes a deeper understanding of the subject matter.

Credibility and Trustworthiness: Objective writing enhances the credibility of the writer and the content. When information is presented without bias, readers are more likely to trust the accuracy and reliability of the material.

Unbiased Evaluation: Objectivity enables fair evaluation of different viewpoints, arguments, and evidence. It allows readers to form their own opinions based on the presented facts, rather than being persuaded by the writer’s subjective views.

Professionalism in Academic and Formal Writing: In academic and formal settings, objective writing is expected as it upholds the standards of professionalism and integrity in research, essays, and reports.

Conflict Resolution: Objective writing is particularly valuable in discussions and debates, as it helps to reduce conflicts by focusing on facts rather than personal feelings or biases.

Avoiding Stereotypes and Prejudices: Writing objectively helps to avoid reinforcing stereotypes and prejudices, promoting a more inclusive and open-minded perspective.

Enhanced Critical Thinking: By analyzing information objectively, writers and readers can engage in deeper critical thinking, questioning assumptions, and considering alternative viewpoints.

Appropriate in Scientific and Technical Fields: In scientific and technical writing, objectivity is essential to maintain the accuracy and validity of research findings and technical information.

Global Audience Accessibility: Objective writing is more accessible to a diverse global audience, as it transcends cultural and individual differences, making the content relevant to a broader readership.

Ethical Reporting: Journalists and reporters strive for objectivity in their news reporting to provide unbiased and truthful information to the public, upholding ethical standards in journalism.

Overall, writing objectively fosters transparency, fairness, and respect for differing perspectives, contributing to more informed, trustworthy, and inclusive communication.

Subjectivity Writing

Subjectivity and objectivity are two fundamental aspects of writing that influence how information is presented and perceived. Subjectivity refers to the presence of personal opinions, feelings, and biases in writing. It involves the writer’s perspective, emotions, and interpretations, which can impact how they convey information to the reader.

What Is Subjective Writing?

Subjective writing is a style of writing where the author expresses their personal opinions, emotions, and viewpoints on a particular subject. In subjective writing, the author’s feelings, beliefs, and individual experiences play a significant role in shaping the content. This type of writing often uses first-person pronouns, such as “I” or “we,” and employs emotional language to convey the author’s thoughts and emotions.

Subjective writing is prevalent in creative writing, personal essays, memoirs, and certain types of journalistic pieces, such as opinion columns or editorials. It allows writers to connect with the reader on a more personal level, sharing their unique perspectives and inviting the audience to empathize with their point of view.

The Difference Between Objective And Subjective Writing

It’s essential to recognize that both objective and subjective writing have their place in various contexts. Objective writing provides factual information and encourages critical thinking, while subjective writing allows for self-expression and emotional engagement. The choice between the two depends on the writer’s intentions, the subject matter, and the target audience.

Understanding the difference between objective and subjective writing enables writers to choose the appropriate style based on their intended purpose and the expectations of their audience. It also empowers readers to identify when they are encountering subjective content and approach it with a discerning mindset, acknowledging the presence of the author’s perspective.

Elements Of Objective Writing

Objective writing is characterized by its neutral and unbiased approach to presenting information. Writers strive to eliminate personal biases and emotions, focusing on factual accuracy and logical reasoning. Several key elements contribute to achieving objectivity in writing:

Avoiding Personal Pronouns

Objective writing minimizes the use of personal pronouns like “I,” “we,” or “you.” By avoiding these pronouns, the writer maintains a level of distance between themselves and the content, making it less likely for their personal opinions or biases to influence the information presented. Instead of writing, “I believe that,” or “In my opinion,” the objective writer would present the information without explicitly inserting themselves into the narrative. For example, “According to research,” or “Studies indicate that.”

Focusing On Facts, Not Emotions Or Opinions

Objective writing prioritizes the presentation of verifiable facts, evidence, and data over personal emotions or opinions. The writer should refrain from using emotionally charged language or expressing their feelings about the subject matter. Instead, they rely on evidence-based information to support their claims. When presenting an argument or discussing a topic, the focus is on logical reasoning and empirical support rather than emotional persuasion.

Using An Active Voice And Ergative Verbs

The active voice is preferred in objective writing because it clearly identifies the subject and the action they are performing. This contributes to clarity and directness in the writing. In contrast, the passive voice can sometimes be used to obscure responsibility or agency, potentially leading to less objective writing. Ergative verbs, which don’t require an object to complete their meaning, can also help make sentences more concise and focused.

Example (Active Voice): “The committee made the decision.” Example (Passive Voice): “The decision was made by the committee.”

Referencing Sources For Evidence And Support

Objective writing relies heavily on evidence and support from reputable sources. By referencing and citing authoritative works, research studies, experts, and reliable data, the writer reinforces the credibility of their writing. These citations also allow readers to verify the information independently, adding transparency and accountability to the content.

Maintaining A Neutral Tone In The Writing

A neutral tone is crucial in objective writing. The language used should be professional, impartial, and devoid of emotional bias. The writer should avoid overly positive or negative language that could sway the reader’s perception. Instead, the content should present information objectively, allowing the readers to draw their conclusions based on the facts and evidence provided.

Example (Neutral Tone): “The study findings suggest a correlation between X and Y, according to the researchers’ analysis.”

Common Examples Of Objective Writing

Objective writing fosters transparency, credibility, and the dissemination of reliable information across various domains, contributing to an informed and knowledgeable society. This type of writing has distinct purposes: ensuring clear communication in instruction manuals, providing unbiased information in news reporting, and maintaining scientific rigor in natural science reports. 

Instruction Manual

Instruction manuals are a classic example of objective writing. These documents provide step-by-step guidance on how to use a product or perform a specific task. Objective writing in instruction manuals focuses on clarity, precision, and neutrality. It avoids subjective language and personal opinions, instead using concise and straightforward language to ensure readers can follow the instructions accurately. The emphasis is on providing clear directions and information, leaving no room for ambiguity or misinterpretation.

Example (Objective Writing in an Instruction Manual): “Insert the round end of the cable into the designated port until you hear a click.”

News Reporting

News reporting is one of the primary domains where objective writing is crucial. Journalists aim to present news stories in a fair, accurate, and unbiased manner. Objective news articles provide the who, what, where, when, why, and how of an event without injecting personal opinions or emotions. They rely on credible sources, facts, and verified information to inform the public objectively. While opinion pieces and editorials allow for subjectivity, standard news reporting adheres to objective principles.

Example (Objective News Reporting): “In a press conference today, the Prime Minister announced new economic measures to address unemployment. The plan includes tax incentives for businesses and increased funding for job training programs.”

Natural Science Reports

Objective writing is a fundamental aspect of scientific reports, particularly in the field of natural sciences. Scientific reports present research findings, experiments, and observations without personal bias or emotional influence. The language used is precise and technical, and statements are supported by empirical evidence and data. Objectivity ensures that other researchers can replicate experiments and validate the conclusions, promoting the advancement of scientific knowledge.

Example (Objective Writing in a Natural Science Report): “The results of the study show a significant correlation between the increase in temperature and the rate of plant growth. The experiment was conducted over a three-month period, and the data were collected and analyzed using standard statistical methods.”

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Essay and dissertation writing skills

Planning your essay

Writing your introduction

Structuring your essay

• Writing essays in science subjects
• Brief video guides to support essay planning and writing
• Writing extended essays and dissertations
• Planning your dissertation writing time

Structuring your dissertation

• Top tips for writing longer pieces of work

Advice on planning and writing essays and dissertations

University essays differ from school essays in that they are less concerned with what you know and more concerned with how you construct an argument to answer the question. This means that the starting point for writing a strong essay is to first unpick the question and to then use this to plan your essay before you start putting pen to paper (or finger to keyboard).

A really good starting point for you are these short, downloadable Tips for Successful Essay Writing and Answering the Question resources. Both resources will help you to plan your essay, as well as giving you guidance on how to distinguish between different sorts of essay questions. 

You may find it helpful to watch this seven-minute video on six tips for essay writing which outlines how to interpret essay questions, as well as giving advice on planning and structuring your writing:

Different disciplines will have different expectations for essay structure and you should always refer to your Faculty or Department student handbook or course Canvas site for more specific guidance.

However, broadly speaking, all essays share the following features:

Essays need an introduction to establish and focus the parameters of the discussion that will follow. You may find it helpful to divide the introduction into areas to demonstrate your breadth and engagement with the essay question. You might define specific terms in the introduction to show your engagement with the essay question; for example, ‘This is a large topic which has been variously discussed by many scientists and commentators. The principal tension is between the views of X and Y who define the main issues as…’ Breadth might be demonstrated by showing the range of viewpoints from which the essay question could be considered; for example, ‘A variety of factors including economic, social and political, influence A and B. This essay will focus on the social and economic aspects, with particular emphasis on…..’

Watch this two-minute video to learn more about how to plan and structure an introduction:

The main body of the essay should elaborate on the issues raised in the introduction and develop an argument(s) that answers the question. It should consist of a number of self-contained paragraphs each of which makes a specific point and provides some form of evidence to support the argument being made. Remember that a clear argument requires that each paragraph explicitly relates back to the essay question or the developing argument.

• Conclusion: An essay should end with a conclusion that reiterates the argument in light of the evidence you have provided; you shouldn’t use the conclusion to introduce new information.
• References: You need to include references to the materials you’ve used to write your essay. These might be in the form of footnotes, in-text citations, or a bibliography at the end. Different systems exist for citing references and different disciplines will use various approaches to citation. Ask your tutor which method(s) you should be using for your essay and also consult your Department or Faculty webpages for specific guidance in your discipline. 

Essay writing in science subjects

If you are writing an essay for a science subject you may need to consider additional areas, such as how to present data or diagrams. This five-minute video gives you some advice on how to approach your reading list, planning which information to include in your answer and how to write for your scientific audience – the video is available here:

A PDF providing further guidance on writing science essays for tutorials is available to download.

Short videos to support your essay writing skills

There are many other resources at Oxford that can help support your essay writing skills and if you are short on time, the Oxford Study Skills Centre has produced a number of short (2-minute) videos covering different aspects of essay writing, including:

• Approaching different types of essay questions  
• Structuring your essay  
• Writing an introduction  
• Making use of evidence in your essay writing  
• Writing your conclusion

Extended essays and dissertations

Longer pieces of writing like extended essays and dissertations may seem like quite a challenge from your regular essay writing. The important point is to start with a plan and to focus on what the question is asking. A PDF providing further guidance on planning Humanities and Social Science dissertations is available to download.

Planning your time effectively

Try not to leave the writing until close to your deadline, instead start as soon as you have some ideas to put down onto paper. Your early drafts may never end up in the final work, but the work of committing your ideas to paper helps to formulate not only your ideas, but the method of structuring your writing to read well and conclude firmly.

Although many students and tutors will say that the introduction is often written last, it is a good idea to begin to think about what will go into it early on. For example, the first draft of your introduction should set out your argument, the information you have, and your methods, and it should give a structure to the chapters and sections you will write. Your introduction will probably change as time goes on but it will stand as a guide to your entire extended essay or dissertation and it will help you to keep focused.

The structure of  extended essays or dissertations will vary depending on the question and discipline, but may include some or all of the following:

• The background information to - and context for - your research. This often takes the form of a literature review.
• Explanation of the focus of your work.
• Explanation of the value of this work to scholarship on the topic.
• List of the aims and objectives of the work and also the issues which will not be covered because they are outside its scope.

The main body of your extended essay or dissertation will probably include your methodology, the results of research, and your argument(s) based on your findings.

The conclusion is to summarise the value your research has added to the topic, and any further lines of research you would undertake given more time or resources. 

Tips on writing longer pieces of work

Approaching each chapter of a dissertation as a shorter essay can make the task of writing a dissertation seem less overwhelming. Each chapter will have an introduction, a main body where the argument is developed and substantiated with evidence, and a conclusion to tie things together. Unlike in a regular essay, chapter conclusions may also introduce the chapter that will follow, indicating how the chapters are connected to one another and how the argument will develop through your dissertation.

For further guidance, watch this two-minute video on writing longer pieces of work . 

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Essay on My Favourite Subject for Students and Children

500 Words Essay on My Favourite Subject

As a student, everyone excels in some subjects and not in the others. Of course, there are some students who do well in all of them, but that number is low. However, almost every student has a favourite subject. It does not matter if it’s related to academics or arts.

Personally, my favorite subject is English. I have always scored well on the subject because I understand it well. It makes learning effortless and I always manage to get good marks. There are other subjects I like too but English definitely tops my list. I never get bored of it and am always ready to study it.

Reason For Favouritism

There are many reasons as to why I enjoy studying English. The major one is that it enhances my reading skills. Ever since my childhood, my mother has always read stories to me. So, I developed a habit of reading and listening to stories. As my reading skills get polished through English, it helps me in other subjects too. I grasp the concepts better through reading.

Furthermore, through English, I developed a knack for writing. I absolutely enjoy writing essays and articles. It is only through English, that I started writing my own work. This helps me in forming incredible answers for other subjects as well. It gives me the experience to use accurate words and sentences to convey my message better.

Most importantly, I love fictional stories in English. I love how it always has some lessons in them to learn. They also apply in real life and help me make wise decisions. The stories in English novels and plays always keeps me entertained. It also enhances my imagination powers.

Get the huge list of more than 500 Essay Topics and Ideas

A Scoring Subject

English is definitely a scoring subject which makes it even more special for me. I am an average student who does not take much interest in Science. I manage to get decent marks in the subjects, but in English, I score well. When we compare English to other subjects, we see it is most scoring.

English does not demand word to word answers. It gives the child a chance to play with words. It gives them the creative liberty to speak their minds out. For instance, in Maths, you cannot create your own formulas. You must copy the same exact one taught in the syllabus. But, in English, we can compose our own answers based on our understanding and intelligence.

In addition, English teachers are usually more approachable and understanding. In other subjects, the teachers always have to stick by the book and literally make students mug up the formulas and theories. The English teacher takes time to make them understand each phrase. They allow the students to interpret it as per their intellect. This empowers the child too so they can put their own thinking in it.

In short, I absolutely love English. It gives me the chance to excel without putting too much pressure on me. I get to play with words and form my own interpretations. This helps me get the creative freedom I do not get in other subjects.

FAQs on My Favourite Subject

Q.1 What does a favorite subject mean?

A.1 A favorite subject essentially means a particular subject which kid really enjoy studying. They never get bored of it and score good marks in it.

Q.2 Why is English a scoring subject?

A.2 English a scoring subject because it gives the child creative freedom to form their own answers. It does not stick to the book. It gives the child an opportunity to make their own answers and get good marks.

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Subjective Writing, Essay Example

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You are free to use it as an inspiration or a source for your own work.

Subjective writing differs from objective writing in that subjective writing allows for the inclusion of individual emotions, perceptions, ideas, and perspectives. By contrast, objective writing endeavors to remain rooted in fact that is absent of emotion of judgment.  A work such as Elie Wiesel’s Night (1960) uses a subjective narrative to delve deeply into the personal consequences of a major historical event: the Holocaust. The use of subjective writing helps to bring the statistical and historical truths of the Holocaust into a more meaningful light for readers. An example of how Wiesel uses subjective writing to create emotional tension is the following passage: “Here or elsewhere, what did it matter? Die today or tomorrow, or later? The night was growing longer, neverending” (Weisel). These words show the almost mythic level of horror and confusion that gripped the prisoners in Nazi concentration camps and it does so in a way that coldly objective language fails to accomplish.

Similarly, Wiesel’s account of the behavior and actions of the SS guards at the camps is based in a detachment as though the SS guards are something less than human. This is an inversion of the racism used by the Nazis against their prisoners. The reversal of the “dehumanization” by race and nation is another aspect of Weisel’s subjective writing that brings power to the narrative structure of Night .  The use of subjective emotion and perspective helps to illuminate the events of history and make them poignant for all readers, despite race of heritage.

In  other words, by reaching deeply into the subjective, Weisel actually discovers the universal because anyone in the camps is likely to feel similarly no matter who or what they had been before their imprisonment. What Weisel wants the reader of Night  to feel and understand is that the crimes that were committed by the Nazis in the concentration camps were crimes against actual people and not merely “Jews.”  Weisel wants the reader to feel a human connection with both the victims of the Holocaust and the perpetrators of this terrible historical crime.

Weisel, Elie. Night .

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5 Science-Backed Ways to Write Clearly

If you want to become a better writer, ignore the lore and follow the science..

Posted June 24, 2024 | Reviewed by Devon Frye

• We read sentences written with active voice faster and comprehend content better than passive sentences.
• Studies document that we read and recall sentences with less effort when they turn content into micro-stories.
• Pronouns as subjects send readers backward, but readers comprehend sentences through prediction.
• Action verbs activate the brain's motor systems, creating semantic richness and enabling rapid comprehension.

Most writers assume they write well. Yet most writers grapple with the reality of writing as a black box.

That is, we know that writing works, but we’re a bit fuzzy on what makes readers grasp the meaning of some sentences instantly and without noticeable effort, while we find others difficult to understand after repeat re-readings. And contrary to popular belief, clear writing has virtually nothing to do with content, sentence length, or writing style.

Instead, we perceive sentences as clear when they map onto the methods our reading brains use to make sense of writing. Knowing the most important ones, including the below, could help make you a better writer.

1. Active voice makes sentences easier to read.

In dozens of studies, researchers have found that readers comprehend sentences more rapidly when sentences reflect the causal order of events. Two factors determine these outcomes.

First, human brains naturally perceive cause and effect, a likely survival mechanism. In fact, infants as young as six months can identify cause and effect, registered as spikes in heart rate and blood pressure.

Second, English sentence structure reflects causes and effects in its ordering of words: subject-verb-object order. In key studies, participants read sentences with active voice at speeds one-third faster than they read sentences in passive voice. More significantly, these same participants misunderstood even simple sentences in passive voice about 25 percent of the time.

As readers, we also perceive active sentences as both shorter and easier to read because active voice typically makes sentences more efficient. Consider the difference between the first sentence below, which relies on passive voice, and the second, which uses active voice.

• Passive: Among board members, there was an instant agreement to call for a pause in negotiations.
• Active: Board members instantly agreed to call for a pause in negotiations.

2. Actors or concrete objects turn sentences into micro-stories.

We read sentences with less effort—or cognitive load—when we can clearly see cause and effect, or, “who did what to whom,” as Ina Bornkessel-Schlesewsky puts it.

Bornkessel-Schlesewsky, a professor of cognitive neuroscience at the University of South Australia, used functional Magnetic Resonance Imaging (fMRI), to spot brains reacting to meaning and word order in sentences. Unsurprisingly, when the subjects of sentences are nouns clearly capable of performing actions, readers process sentences with greater speed and less effort. For actors, writers can choose people, organizations, publications—any individual, group, or item, intentionally created, that generates impact.

In addition to our unconsciously perceiving these sentences as easy to read and recall, we can also more readily identify actors in sentences. Furthermore, these nouns enhance the efficiency of any sentence by paring down its words. Take the examples below:

• Abstract noun as subject: Virginia Woolf’s examination of the social and economic obstacles female writers faced due to the presumption that women had no place in literary professions and so were instead relegated to the household, particularly resonated with her audience of young women who had struggled to fight for their right to study at their colleges, even after the political successes of the suffragettes.
• Actor as subject: In A Room of One’s Own , Virginia Woolf examined social and economic obstacles female writers faced. Despite the political success of the suffragettes, writers like Woolf battled the perception that women had no place in the literary professions. Thus Woolf’s book resonated with her audience, young women who had to fight for the right to study at their colleges.

3. Pronouns send readers backward, but readers make sense of sentences by anticipating what comes next.

Writers typically love to use pronouns as the subjects of sentences, especially the demonstrative pronouns this, that, these, those, and it , believing that these pronouns help link their sentences. Instead, pronouns save writers time and effort—but significantly cost readers for two likely reasons.

First, readers assume that pronouns refer to a singular noun, rather than a cluster of nouns, a phrase, or even an entire sentence. Second and more importantly, when writers use these pronouns without anchoring nouns, readers slow down and frequently misidentify the pronoun referents. In fact, readers rated writing samples with high numbers of sentences using demonstrative pronouns as being less well-written than sentences that used actors as subjects or pronouns anchored by nouns.

Pronoun as subjects: [Katie Ledecky] estimated that she swims more than 65,000 yards—or about 37 miles—a week. That adds up to 1,900 miles a year, and it means eons of staring at the black line that runs along the bottom of a pool. Actor as subject: [Katie] Ledecky swims up to 1,900 miles a year, mileage that entails seeming aeons of staring at the black line that runs along the bottom of a pool.

4. Action verbs make sentences more concrete, memorable, and efficient.

For years, old-school newspaper and magazine editors urged writers to use action verbs to enliven sentences.

However, action verbs also offer readers and writers significant benefits in terms of their memorability, as revealed in one study of readers’ recall of verbs. Of the 200 verbs in the study, readers recalled concrete verbs and nouns more accurately than non-action verbs.

In fact, when we read concrete verbs, our brains recruit the sensory-motor system, generating faster reaction times than abstract or non-action verbs, processed outside that system . Even in patients with dementia , action verbs remain among the words patients can identify with advanced disease, due to the richness of semantic associations that action verbs recruit in the brain.

• Non-action verbs: That the electric trolleys being abandoned in Philadelphia were greener and more efficient was not an insight available at that time.
• Action Verbs: Philadelphia scrapped its electric trolleys, decades before urban planners turned to greener, more efficient forms of transport.

5. Place subjects and verbs close together.

Over the past 20 years, researchers have focused on models of reading that rely on our understanding of sentence structure, a focus validated by recent studies.

As we read, we predict how sentence structure or syntax unfolds, based on our encounters with thousands of sentences. We also use the specific words we encounter in sentences to verify our predictions, beginning with grammatical subjects, followed by verbs.

As a result, readers struggle to identify subjects and verbs when writers separate them—the more distance between subjects and verbs, the slower the process of identifying them correctly. Moreover, readers make more errors in identifying correct subjects and verbs—crucial to understanding sentences—with increases in the number of words between subjects and verbs, even with relatively simple sentence structure.

Ironically, as writers tackle increasingly complex topics, they typically modify their subjects with phrases and adjective clauses that can place subjects at one end of the sentence and verbs at the opposite end. This separation strains working memory , as readers rely on subject-verb-object order in English to understand the sentence’s meaning. Consider, for example, this sentence from an online news organization:

In Florida, for instance, a bill to eliminate a requirement that students pass an Algebra I end-of-course and 10th-grade English/language arts exams in order to graduate recently cleared the Senate’s education committee.

On the other hand, when we place the subject and verb close together and use modifiers after the verb, we ease readers’ predictions and demands on working memory:

In Florida, the Senate’s education committee recently cleared a bill to eliminate two graduation requirements: an Algebra I end-of-course and 10th-grade English language arts.

Jane Yellowlees Douglas, Ph.D. , is a consultant on writing and organizations. She is also the author, with Maria B. Grant, MD, of The Biomedical Writer: What You Need to Succeed in Academic Medicine .

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More From Forbes

How not to write your college essay.

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If you are looking for the “secret formula” for writing a “winning” college essay, you have come to the wrong place. The reality is there is no silver bullet or strategy to write your way to an acceptance. There is not one topic or approach that will guarantee a favorable outcome.

At the end of the day, every admission office just wants to know more about you, what you value, and what excites you. They want to hear about your experiences through your own words and in your own voice. As you set out to write your essay, you will no doubt get input (both sought-after and unsolicited) on what to write. But how about what NOT Notcoin to write? There are avoidable blunders that applicants frequently make in drafting their essays. I asked college admission leaders, who have read thousands of submissions, to share their thoughts.

Don’t Go In There

There is wide consensus on this first one, so before you call on your Jedi mind tricks or predictive analytics, listen to the voices of a diverse range of admission deans. Peter Hagan, executive director of admissions at Syracuse University, sums it up best, saying, “I would recommend that students try not to get inside of our heads. He adds, “Too often the focus is on what they think we want.”

Andy Strickler, dean of admission and financial aid at Connecticut College agrees, warning, “Do NOT get caught in the trap of trying to figure out what is going to impress the admission committee. You have NO idea who is going to read your essay and what is going to connect with them. So, don't try to guess that.” Victoria Romero, vice president for enrollment, at Scripps College adds, “Do not write about something you don’t care about.” She says, “I think students try to figure out what an admission officer wants to read, and the reality is the reader begins every next essay with no expectations about the content THEY want to read.” Chrystal Russell, dean of admission at Hampden-Sydney College, agrees, saying, “If you're not interested in writing it, we will not be interested when reading it.” Jay Jacobs, vice provost for enrollment management at the University of Vermont elaborates, advising. “Don’t try to make yourself sound any different than you are.” He says, “The number one goal for admission officers is to better understand the applicant, what they like to do, what they want to do, where they spend the majority of their time, and what makes them tick. If a student stays genuine to that, it will shine through and make an engaging and successful essay.”

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Don’t Be Artificial

The headlines about college admission are dominated by stories about artificial intelligence and the college essay. Let’s set some ground rules–to allow ChatGPT or some other tool to do your work is not only unethical, it is also unintelligent. The only worse mistake you could make is to let another human write your essay for you. Instead of preoccupying yourself with whether or not colleges are using AI detection software (most are not), spend your time focused on how best to express yourself authentically. Rick Clark is the executive director of strategic student success at Georgia Institute of Technology, one of the first institutions to clearly outline their AI policy for applicants. He says, “Much of a college application is devoted to lines, boxes, and numbers. Essays and supplements are the one place to establish connection, personality, and distinction. AI, in its current state, is terrible at all three.” He adds, “My hope is that students will use ChatGPT or other tools for brainstorming and to get started, but then move quickly into crafting an essay that will provide insight and value.”

Don’t Overdo It

Michael Stefanowicz, vice president for enrollment management at Landmark College says, “You can only cover so much detail about yourself in an admission essay, and a lot of students feel pressure to tell their life story or choose their most defining experience to date as an essay topic. Admission professionals know that you’re sharing just one part of your lived experience in the essay.” He adds, “Some of the favorite essays I’ve read have been episodic, reflecting on the way you’ve found meaning in a seemingly ordinary experience, advice you’ve lived out, a mistake you’ve learned from, or a special tradition in your life.” Gary Ross, vice president for admission and financial aid at Colgate University adds, “More than a few applicants each year craft essays that talk about the frustration and struggles they have experienced in identifying a topic for their college application essay. Presenting your college application essay as a smorgasbord of topics that ultimately landed on the cutting room floor does not give us much insight into an applicant.”

Don’t Believe In Magic

Jason Nevinger, senior director of admission at the University of Rochester warns, “Be skeptical of anyone or any company telling you, ‘This is the essay that got me into _____.’ There is no magic topic, approach, sentence structure, or prose that got any student into any institution ever.” Social media is littered with advertisements promising strategic essay help. Don’t waste your time, energy, or money trying to emulate a certain style, topic, or tone. Liz Cheron is chief executive officer for the Coalition for College and former assistant vice president of enrollment & dean of admissions at Northeastern University. She agrees with Nevinger, saying “Don't put pressure on yourself to find the perfect, slam dunk topic. The vast majority of college essays do exactly what they're supposed to do–they are well-written and tell the admission officer more about the student in that student's voice–and that can take many different forms.”

Don’t Over Recycle

Beatrice Atkinson-Myers, associate director of global recruitment at the University of California at Santa Cruz tells students, “Do not use the same response for each university; research and craft your essay to match the program at the university you are interested in studying. Don't waste time telling me things I can read elsewhere in your application. Use your essay to give the admissions officer insights into your motivations, interests, and thinking. Don't make your essay the kitchen sink, focus on one or two examples which demonstrate your depth and creativity.” Her UC colleague, Jim Rawlins, associate vice chancellor of enrollment management at the University of California at San Diego agrees, saying “Answer the question. Not doing so is the surest way we can tell you are simply giving us a snippet of something you actually wrote for a different purpose.”

Don’t Overedit

Emily Roper-Doten, vice president for undergraduate admissions and financial assistance at Clark University warns against “Too many editors!” She says, “Pick a couple of trusted folks to be your sounding board when considering topics and as readers once you have drafts. You don’t want too many voices in your essay to drown you out!” Scripps’ Romero agrees, suggesting, “Ask a good friend, someone you trust and knows you well, to read your essays.” She adds, “The goal is for the admission committee to get to know a little about you and who better to help you create that framework, than a good friend. This may not work for all students because of content but helps them understand it’s important to be themselves.” Whitney Soule, vice provost and dean of admissions at The University of Pennsylvania adds, “Avoid well-meaning editorial interference that might seem to polish your writing but actually takes your own personal ‘shine’ right out of the message.” She says, “As readers, we connect to applicants through their genuine tone and style. Considering editorial advice for flow and message is OK but hold on to the 'you' for what you want to say and how you want to say it.”

Don’t Get Showy

Palmer Muntz, senior regional admissions counselor at the University of Alaska Fairbanks cautions applicants, “Don’t be fancier than you are. You don’t need to put on airs.” He adds, “Yes, proofread your work for grammar and spelling, but be natural. Craft something you’d want to read yourself, which probably means keeping your paragraphs short, using familiar words, and writing in an active voice.” Connecticut College’s Strickler agrees, warning, “Don't try to be someone you are not. If you are not funny, don't try to write a funny essay. If you are not an intellectual, trying to write an intellectual essay is a bad idea.”

Anthony Jones, the vice president of enrollment management at Loyola University New Orleans offers a unique metaphor for thinking about the essay. He says, “In the new world of the hyper-fast college admission process, it's become easy to overlook the essential meaning of the college application. It's meant to reveal Y...O...U, the real you, not some phony digital avatar. Think of the essay as the essence of that voice but in analog. Like the completeness and authenticity captured in a vinyl record, the few lines you're given to explain your view should be a slow walk through unrestrained expression chock full of unapologetic nuances, crevices of emotion, and exactness about how you feel in the moment. Then, and only then, can you give the admissions officer an experience that makes them want to tune in and listen for more.”

Don’t Be A Downer

James Nondorf, vice president and dean of admissions and financial aid at The University of Chicago says, “Don’t be negative about other people, be appreciative of those who have supported you, and be excited about who you are and what you will bring to our campus!” He adds, “While admissions offices want smart students for our classrooms, we also want kind-hearted, caring, and joyous students who will add to our campus communities too.”

Don’t Pattern Match

Alan Ramirez is the dean of admission and financial aid at Sewanee, The University of the South. He explains, “A big concern I have is when students find themselves comparing their writing to other students or past applicants and transform their writing to be more like those individuals as a way to better their chances of offering a more-compelling essay.” He emphasizes that the result is that the “essay is no longer authentic nor the best representation of themselves and the whole point of the essay is lost. Their distinctive voice and viewpoint contribute to the range of voices in the incoming class, enhancing the diversity of perspectives we aim to achieve.” Ramirez simple tells students, “Be yourself, that’s what we want to see, plus there's no one else who can do it better than you!”

Don’t Feel Tied To A Topic

Jessica Ricker is the vice president for enrollment and dean of admissions and financial aid at Skidmore College. She says, “Sometimes students feel they must tell a story of grief or hardship, and then end up reliving that during the essay-writing process in ways that are emotionally detrimental. I encourage students to choose a topic they can reflect upon positively but recommend that if they choose a more challenging experience to write about, they avoid belaboring the details and instead focus on the outcome of that journey.” She adds, "They simply need to name it, frame its impact, and then help us as the reader understand how it has shaped their lens on life and their approach moving forward.”

Landmark College’s Stefanowicz adds, “A lot of students worry about how personal to get in sharing a part of their identity like your race or heritage (recalling last year’s Supreme Court case about race-conscious admissions), a learning difference or other disability, your religious values, LGBTQ identity…the list goes on.” He emphasizes, “This is always your choice, and your essay doesn’t have to be about a defining identity. But I encourage you to be fully yourself as you present yourself to colleges—because the college admission process is about finding a school where your whole self is welcome and you find a setting to flourish!”

Don’t Be Redundant

Hillen Grason Jr., dean of admission at Franklin & Marshall College, advises, “Don't repeat academic or co-curricular information that is easily identifiable within other parts of your application unless the topic is a core tenant of you as an individual.” He adds, “Use your essay, and other parts of your application, wisely. Your essay is the best way to convey who your authentic self is to the schools you apply. If you navigated a situation that led to a dip in your grades or co-curricular involvement, leverage the ‘additional information’ section of the application.

Thomas Marr is a regional manager of admissions for the Americas at The University of St Andrews in Scotland and points out that “Not all international schools use the main college essay as part of their assessment when reviewing student applications.” He says, “At the University of St Andrews, we focus on the supplemental essay and students should avoid the mistake of making the supplemental a repeat of their other essay. The supplemental (called the Personal Statement if using the UCAS application process) is to show the extent of their passion and enthusiasm for the subject/s to which they are applying and we expect about 75% of the content to cover this. They can use the remaining space to mention their interests outside of the classroom. Some students confuse passion for the school with passion for their subject; do not fall into that trap.”

A Few Final Don’ts

Don’t delay. Every college applicant I have ever worked with has wished they had started earlier. You can best avoid the pitfalls above if you give yourself the time and space to write a thoughtful essay and welcome feedback openly but cautiously. Don’t put too much pressure on yourself to be perfect . Do your best, share your voice, and stay true to who you are.

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Daily Writing Tips

How to write an essay for a scholarship: a step-by-step guide.

Crafting an essay for a scholarship is your chance to show why you’re a worthy investment. It’s not just another essay; it’s a personal narrative that embodies your aspirations and showcases your potential.

In this step-by-step guide, we’ll lead you through each part of the scholarship essay process: understanding the prompt, outlining your thoughts, engaging introductions, strong body paragraphs, impactful conclusions, and essential revisions. Plus, we’ll touch on those final checks before you hit submit.

Ready to turn your educational dreams into a compelling story? Let’s begin the journey of writing an essay that might just change the course of your future.

What Is a Scholarship Essay and Why Is It Important?

A scholarship essay is a written piece you submit as part of your college or university scholarship application. It’s your opportunity to demonstrate to the scholarship committee why you are the best candidate for the award.

The scholarship essay is important because it allows the committee to get to know you beyond your grades and test scores. It lets you share your personal story, accomplishments, and future plans.

What Are Scholarship Essay Prompts Asking For?

Scholarship essay prompts typically ask you to discuss your academic achievements, extracurricular activities, community service, leadership roles, or any challenges you’ve overcome. The prompt will guide you in showcasing your unique qualifications. For example, a prompt might ask you to describe a time when you demonstrated leadership or to explain how a particular experience has shaped your academic and career goals.

How Can You Plan Your Scholarship Essay Effectively?

Effective planning is the key to writing a strong scholarship essay. Here are the steps to follow:

1. Read the prompt carefully: Start by thoroughly reviewing to understand the requirements and instructions of the essay prompt. Make sure you know exactly what the prompt is asking you to do.

2. Brainstorm experiences and accomplishments: Reflect on your academic, extracurricular, and personal experiences that might help explain the prompt. Think about your achievements, the challenges you’ve overcome, and how you’ve made a difference in your community.

3. Develop a thesis or central theme: Based on your brainstorming, determine a thesis or central theme that will help focus your essay. This statement should explain the main point you want the scholarship committee to understand.

4. Create an outline: Organize your essay by making an outline. Include an introduction, body paragraphs, and a conclusion. This will help you write a structured and coherent essay.

5. Do additional research: Depending on the prompt, you may need to research relevant information to support your essay. For example, if the prompt asks you to discuss a social issue, you may need to research facts and statistics to support your points.

6. Allow time for writing and revising: Don’t wait until the last minute to write your essay. Give yourself enough time to write a draft, get feedback, and make revisions . Rushing through the process can result in a weaker essay.

How Do You Create a Compelling Introduction for Your Scholarship Essay?

The introduction is the first thing the scholarship committee will read, so making a strong impression is important. Here are the steps to create a compelling introduction:

1. Hook the reader: Start your introduction with a captivating hook , such as a quote, anecdote, or intriguing statement. This will immediately engage the reader and make them want to continue reading.

2. Provide context: Offer relevant background information to give the reader context about who you are and your experiences. This could include details about your academic background, extracurricular activities, or personal interests.

3. State your central thesis : Clearly articulate your essay’s main point or argument, aligning it with the scholarship prompt. This thesis statement should be a concise and clear statement of the key idea you will explore in your essay.

4. Outline your approach: Give the reader a sense of how you will develop your essay’s central theme throughout the body paragraphs. This can be a brief overview of the main points you will cover.

5. Express your passion: Convey your enthusiasm, motivation, and personal investment in the topic and your pursuit of the scholarship. This will help the committee understand why this scholarship is important to you.

6. Keep it concise: Aim for 3-5 engaging sentences that introduce your essay in a manner that is easy to understand and compelling. The introduction should be long enough to capture the reader’s attention but not so long that it becomes overwhelming.

What Makes a Strong Body for Your Scholarship Essay?

The body of your scholarship essay is where you will expand on your central theme and provide evidence to support your points. Provide specific examples and evidence from your experiences to support your arguments. This could include details about your academic achievements, extracurricular involvement, community service, or personal challenges you’ve overcome.

Use the body paragraphs to showcase your unique qualities and how they make you a strong candidate for the scholarship. This could include your leadership skills, problem-solving abilities, creativity, or dedication to your studies. Keep your essay logically organized and focused on the main point you want to make, with each paragraph building on the previous one and contributing to the overall argument you’re making.

Vary your sentence structure to keep your writing engaging and easy to read. Alternate between shorter and longer sentences, and help guide the reader through your essay. Back up your claims and arguments with relevant facts, statistics, or expert opinions to strengthen the credibility of your essay.

How Should You Conclude Your Scholarship Essay?

The conclusion of your scholarship essay is your final opportunity to make an impression on the committee. In the conclusion, restate your thesis or central theme in a clear and understandable way. This will remind the reader of the main point you’ve been focused on throughout your essay.

Briefly summarize the key points and arguments you made in the body of your essay. This will help reinforce your main ideas and leave a lasting impression on the reader. Explain why the scholarship is important to you and how it will help you achieve your academic and career goals. Demonstrate your passion and commitment to making the most of the scholarship opportunity.

Conclude your essay with a strong, memorable statement that leaves the reader with a positive impression of you as a candidate. This could be a call to action, an inspirational quote, or a final reflection on the significance of the scholarship.

How Can You Revise Your Scholarship Essay for Maximum Impact?

After you’ve written your first draft, it’s important to revise and edit your essay so it’s as strong as it can be. Carefully read through your essay to catch any spelling, grammar, or punctuation errors. Even small mistakes can ruin the overall quality of your essay.

Ask someone you trust, such as a teacher, mentor, or family member, to review your essay and provide feedback. They may be able to locate areas for improvement or offer a fresh perspective. Ask them to review your essay’s organization to ensure your introduction, body, and conclusion flow logically. Don’t be afraid to rearrange or add/remove paragraphs to strengthen the overall structure.

Examine your essay’s central arguments and claims. Are they supported with sufficient evidence and examples? Look for ways to develop your points further. Review your writing style and make adjustments to improve clarity, concision, and engagement. This could involve varying sentence structure, eliminating unnecessary words, or using more vivid and descriptive language.

Double-check that your essay fully addresses the scholarship prompt and showcases your qualifications in a way that aligns with the committee’s expectations. Don’t be afraid to make multiple rounds of revisions. The more you refine your essay, the stronger it will be.

What Are the Final Steps Before Submitting Your Scholarship Essay?

Once you’ve completed your revisions, there are a few final steps to take before submitting your scholarship essay. Take advantage of sources that provide essay and paper help to add to and ensure the quality you have written is up to the scholarship committee’s standards. Also, always be sure to review everything 

1. Follow instructions: Carefully review the scholarship guidelines and instructions to ensure you’ve followed all the requirements, including formatting, length, and submission procedures.

2. Double-check formatting: Ensure your essay is properly formatted according to the scholarship guidelines, including margins, font size, and spacing.

3. Proofread again : Do one final proofread to catch any lingering errors or typos. It’s easy to miss mistakes when you’ve been working on the essay for a long time.

4. Submit before the deadline: Don’t wait until the last minute to submit your essay. Allow plenty of time to complete the application process and submit your materials before the deadline. 5. Make copies: Keep a copy of your final essay for your records. This can be helpful if you need to refer back to it or make adjustments for future scholarship applications.

Here are some dos and don’ts for effective scholarship essay writing

• Understand the Prompt: Carefully read and analyze the scholarship prompt to ensure your essay directly addresses the requested topic or criteria.
• Showcase Your Unique Qualities: Use the essay as an opportunity to highlight your distinctive experiences, skills, goals, and passions that make you a standout candidate.
• Organize Your Essay Logically: Craft a clear and well-structured essay with an engaging introduction, cohesive body paragraphs, and a compelling conclusion.
• Support Your Claims: Back up your key points and arguments with specific examples, anecdotes, and evidence from your experiences.
• Maintain a Positive and Enthusiastic Tone**: Convey your enthusiasm for the scholarship and your commitment to making the most of the opportunity.
• Proofread and Edit Carefully: Review your essay multiple times to catch any grammar, spelling, or punctuation errors.
• Follow All Formatting Requirements: Adhere to the prescribed page limits, font sizes, and other formatting guidelines specified by the scholarship provider.

Don’ts

• Don’t Repeat the Prompt: Avoid simply restating the prompt in your essay. Instead, use your unique voice and perspective.
• Don’t Make Broad, Unsupported Statements: Avoid making claims or generalizations without providing concrete evidence or examples to support them.
• Don’t Use Clichés or Overly Formal Language: Steer clear of overused phrases and maintain a natural, conversational tone throughout your essay.
• Don’t Exaggerate or Embellish: Be honest and authentic in your writing . Avoid making claims that you cannot substantiate.
• Don’t Neglect the Conclusion: Don’t treat the conclusion as an afterthought. Use it to leave a lasting, positive impression on the reader.
• Don’t Miss Deadlines or Requirements: Ensure you submit your essay by the specified deadline and adhere to all other requirements outlined by the scholarship provider.
• Don’t Plagiarize: Ensure that your essay is entirely your own work and that you properly cite any external sources you use.

Following these dos and don’ts can help you craft a compelling scholarship essay that stands out from the competition.

Writing a good scholarship essay is important to get the funding you need for your education and career goals. By following the steps in this guide – understanding the prompt, brainstorming your experiences, writing a strong introduction and body, and leaving a lasting conclusion – you can create an essay that makes you stand out as an excellent candidate.

The essay is not just about listing your accomplishments – it’s about showing who you are as a person and why you are the ideal recipient. Infuse it with enthusiasm, personal stories, and a vision for your future. This will help you craft an essay that leaves a lasting impression.

As you prepare to submit your scholarship essay, be proud of your work and confident that you’ve presented your best self.

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