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8th Grade Essay: Examples, Topics, & Writing Tips

If you find yourself on this page, you are probably going to another level of your education – the final year of Middle school!

Isn’t it exciting?

One of the most common assignments in the 8th grade is an essay. Indeed, it gains new features. An eighth-grade essay is not the same as the sixth or seventh-grade one. It has more requirements and needs a deeper level of analysis.

How to write an 8th-grade essay? How many paragraphs should it contain? What is a standard 8th-grade essay format? On this page, you’ll find the answers to these and other questions that might arise. We’ve prepared creative 8th-grade essay topics, examples, and tips to write an A+ informative, narrative, or persuasive essay.

• 🧩 8th Grade Essay 101
• 📑 8th-Grade Essay Types
• 💾 Topics for the 8 th -Graders

🍎 8th Grade Essay Examples

🧩 8th-grade essay format explained.

Once again: the 8th-grade essay format is a bit different from that of the previous years.

Below, we thoroughly explain how long an 8th-grade essay should be and how to write it. We guarantee you’ll have no questions about the format and assessment of this type of work.

What Is the 8 th Grade Essay Format?

In this section, you’ll know which parts comprise any 8th-grade essay.

The first thing to remember: you’ve got onto an entirely new level. So, your writing isn’t as simple and short as it used to be in the previous school years.

Let’s start with the structure. The fundamental parts are the same as in any type of essay:

8th Grade Essay: How to Write & Typical Mistakes

With the help of this section, you’ll get to know the most straightforward and helpful tips for 8th-grade essay writing.

These are the things that any 8th grader should know!

8 th Grade Essay Do’s

• Look for reliable sources to find arguments and evidence.
• Try to arouse eagerness for writing: it surely will ease the whole process for you.
• Choose the topic that is interesting for you if you have such an option.
• Use academic language, special terms, consistent phrases, and correct grammar.
• Use good quotations from reputable sources to solidify your ideas.

8 th Grade Essay Don’ts

• Don’t write dully: an essay is a story. It should be exciting and consistent.
• Don’t make all your examples too similar: diversity is of the essence.
• Don’t let your text look like an unreadable pile of words: use graphic tools to highlight the most critical points.
• Don’t use unreliable sources and websites for citation.
• Don’t be afraid of honest self-expression. Your identity and thoughts are what make your 8th-grade essay unique.
• Don’t forget to revise your text after you’ve finished writing it.

8th Grade Essay Rubric

Meet the assessment strategies for 8th-grade writing. Here you’ll also find some prompts that improve your essay and lead you to a higher score.

So, the assessment pattern of a written piece comprises several main points. These are the things that assessors pay attention to:

📑 Eighth Grade Essay Types

We suppose that you come across different types of assignments during middle school. Among them, there indeed were descriptive and narrative essays.

However, now you are to face other exciting formats of writing. In the section below, you’ll get to know a few new types.

8th Grade Argumentative Essay

An argumentative essay is a piece of writing where you make a claim and prove your point of view with solid arguments. Your aim at this point is to make readers nod in contempt while reading and share your opinion.

The structure may be pretty familiar to you:

In your argumentative essay, you should back up your opinion with some exact data: statistics, figures, research studies, and polls.

To solidify your claim, you can use three types of arguments:

• Aristotelian . The classical way – you make a statement and try to persuade the audience that it is the one that is fair and right.
• Rogerian . First, you display an issue, then present the opposing view. After that, reveal your own opinion and start convincing readers why they should take up your point.
• Toulmin . Present your thesis statement, then provide the audience with the grounds to support it. The final touch is to connect these parts.

PRO TIP: Explain why you disagree with the opposing point of view on your issue.

8th Grade Persuasive Essay

A persuasive essay is very similar to argumentative writing. There you have to pick up a mainly burning issue and establish a firm opinion towards it. The primary goal is the same as in the argumentative essay: to make your readers believe you.

Remember the three essentials of persuasive writing:

• Logos appeals to logic, which is apparent. Deliver your thoughts cohesively and reasonably.
• Ethos is about persuading the readers, appealing to their sense of ethics and morality.
• Pathos helps you convince through emotions.

8th Grade Essay – Informative

An expository essay brings concepts to complete understanding. In other words, you explain something to give a clue about the subject in question. Successful expository writing makes the audience get the whole picture, leaving no questions or misunderstandings.

To familiarize yourself with expository essay structure, check our recently updated guide on writing an expository essay .

And briefly look at six major types of expository essays:

💾 8th Grade Essay Topics

8th grade argumentative essay topics.

• What is the main challenge you’ve ever met?
• What was the happiest moment of your childhood?
• Tell about the accomplishment you’re most proud of.
• What are the personal qualities you like most?
• Write about an inspiring celebrity.
• What does emotional intelligence mean?
• Write about the largest challenge of getting older.
• How is adolescence different from childhood?

Read the list of topics we’ve prepared for an 8th-grade essay. Choose your favorite or use our Free Essay Topics Generator to find the best one.

Persuasive Essay Topics for 8th Grade

• Would limited screen time be beneficial for health?
• Will the global use of electric vehicles save us from the ecological crisis?
• The government should provide citizens with more qualified psychological help.
• What are the pros and cons of buying a pet for a child?
• Should people use paper and textile bags instead of plastic ones?
• Is it necessary to attend PE classes in school?
• Is it ethical to use smartphones during the lesson?
• Should parents forbid their children from watching TikTok?
• Pros and cons of cheating on exams: immoral or beneficial?
• Should there be only healthy snack vending machines at schools?
• Is it acceptable for a teacher to raise the voice at a student?
• Should modern rappers’ songs be put through censorship?
• Is it ethical for students to discuss their teachers?
• Should all cosmetic products become cruelty-free?
• Should we stop the overconsumption of sugar for the sake of our health?
• Should zoos and circuses be banned forever?

8th Grade Informative Essay Topics

• Compare and contrast the environmental policies of the USA and Europe.
• What are the harmful effects of CO 2 emissions on the environment?
• How is the concept of freedom reflected in 20th-century literature?
• Reveal the details of the famous friendship of Hemingway and Fitzgerald.
• Brush off or fight: how to act when you come across bullying at school?
• What are the most significant challenges school attendees usually face?
• How to overcome your fears without getting traumatized?
• How to prepare for the exam period and overcome anxiety?
• Freedom or despair: the history and concept of trailer parks in the USA.
• Explain the concept of sustainability and what benefits it has.
• Provide a classification of American lifestyles based on location.
• A reasonable person: describe the concept and the features.

Look at our 8th grade essay examples. These are mostly just excerpts, but we included the most significant parts. Approach us in case you need a similar paper or have any questions.

8th Grade Argumentative Essay Example (#1)

The most notorious substance in the ecological discourse: is CO 2 really that bad?

Did you know that it’s better for the earth if you work out or jog with your mouth tightly shut? It’s not common knowledge, but professionals know: we need a considerable amount of CO 2 in our blood. In some terms, it’s even more vital than oxygen. Undoubtedly, there has to be a proper balance, and here is the point: CO 2 can be beneficial.

Though what good does it make to nature and the environment?

It’s all the same as with our body: CO 2 is not evil on earth, but there must be a proper balance. Now, this balance is critical, and we must make serious efforts to change the situation.

• According to last year’s research, the USA is in the second place among countries producing the most significant part of CO 2 in the whole world. The website statista.com published striking figures. 4.57 million metric tons of carbon dioxide emissions were produced in 2020 by the energy consumption sphere in the United States.
• Besides, a recently published report from the IEA agency reveals another piece of statistics. Compared to the previous year, the amount of CO 2 emissions will rise to 5% in 2021. This year we’re facing 33 billion tons of this greenhouse gas.
• These figures mean nothing without context. Here you are: nature suffers greatly from CO 2 influence. Due to the greenhouse effect caused by an excess of CO 2 , the water temperature in oceans and seas is rising. This process is not positive at all because the natural habitat for sea creatures is altering. The changes are dramatic and lead to the extinction of many species.

In conclusion, we need to find an efficient way to improve the ecological situation regarding CO 2 emissions. The key is global social and individual awareness and consciousness. Each and every inhabitant of the Earth has to understand the meaning of CO 2 for global warming clearly. So, try to jog with your lips closed and choose a bike instead of a car.

Example #2: 8th Grade Persuasive Essay

Is it essential to stay away from social media for the sake of mental health?

Nielsen Company conducted research that says that the average US adult spends more than 10 hours interacting with social media each day. Indeed, social media plays a very considerable role in the life of a modern person. Most of us are more likely to spend time watching short videos than reading a good book. But is it harmful to our mental health to the extent that we have to quit using social media platforms?

To my mind, we are greatly dependent on our Instagram and TikTok accounts, and the content posted there. It certainly has a negative impact, too. However, the complete cancellation of social media is not a way out. The key to good mental condition is in the skill of managing your relations with them.

• One of the recent surveys by the Lancet reports that Facebook users who scroll the newsfeed before sleep tend to be more depressed. Apparently, the deprivation of sleep affects mental well-being to a great extent.
• FInancesOnline has recently posted the results of the research. According to this data, Facebook constitutes 72% of people’s FOMO and anxiety. Posts about traveling and active social life create most of these feelings.
• At the same time, healthy rivalry can motivate development and growth. There’s a reasonable quotation saying that one should compare themselves yesterday instead of comparing to others. The best thing one can do to take care of their mental health is to take a digital detox for a while.

Thus, it is vital to trace your obsessions with social media and negative feelings caused by comparison with others on the Internet. Try to get more aware of it, take your time to rest from social media, and plunge into real life.

5 Paragraph Essay Example for 8th Grade (#3)

The Financier and American Tragedy : compare and contrast two main characters of Dreiser’s novels.

Do you know that Theodore Dreiser is sometimes called an American Fyodor Dostoevsky? Both writers touched upon the most sensitive social and existential issues. However, the subject of this paper is not the comparison of the authors but two famous Dreiser characters: Clyde Griffiths and Frank Cowperwood.

Both of these young American men were striving to reach financial and social success in a world of brutal struggle and hardships.

• Clyde Griffiths represents the desperate strive for American Dream. Born in a poor and religious family, he grows greedy for money and status. In his blind obsession with gaining a high social position, he doesn’t notice his spiritual degradation. He is smart enough to struggle his way into high society but not so witty to solidify his standing with decent means. He cheats, lies, and finally commits a murder: Clyde seems to be already born guilty at times. On reading the story, there doesn’t appear any sympathy toward him. On the contrary, he provokes feelings of abomination and disgust.
• Frank Cowperwood also aims to become wealthy and socially firm. He wants to improve his family’s life quality. Still, his ways and means astonish. Frank is a natural-born predator and strategist. His sophistication and sharp wit show up in him since his very childhood. He isn’t a man of high moral standards: Frank doesn’t mind cheating on his wife and manipulating city treasure money. However, he’s a passionate man, honest and open in his heart urges and impulses. That is the reason why fortune favors him.

However, having similar goals but different personalities and mindsets, Griffiths and Cowperwood reach completely different destination points.

How to Write an Essay in 8th Grade?

– You should pick up a good topic and formulate your attitude to the problem. – Write an outline. – Make a clear and brief thesis statement. – Think of at least 3 firm arguments if the essay type demands it. – Impress your readers with a firm conclusion. Voila! Do not forget to proofread!

How Long Is an Essay in 8th Grade?

The length of the 8th-grade essay slightly depends on the format and the particular type of writing. However, it varies from approximately 500 to 800 words. Within this framework, you have to make yourself clear and deliver all necessary points.

How Many Sentences Are in a Paragraph for 8th Grade?

The size of a paragraph in the 8th-grade essay has to be not less than 8 sentences in each. Besides that, mind that the sentences are primarily compound or complex, error-free, and coherent. Also, remember to connect the sentences and paragraphs with particular language means.

How to Write an Argumentative Essay in 8th Grade?

Choose an exciting and acute topic. Make up a thesis statement out of the problem. Draft an outline or a brief plan. Explore some reliable sources for the evidence and arguments for your essay. Organize the facts and information into a cohesive structure.

I’m an 8th grade student at a private school, and my teacher assigns us up to 4-6 pages most to write. First of all we get other essays on top of this, and usually have nearly to a week to finish. Me and my classmates struggle with this. Do you guys think this is too much for an average 8th grade student?

i am writin apaper right now and it is averreding and its about the changes we woud make to our cafeteria it has to be 5 paragraphs long

Thanks for stopping by at our blog. We would be happy to help you with your paper. You can be interested in some other posts on this blog (https://overnightessay.com/blog/category/essay-tips/) or contact our friendly Support Team to get professional writign help from experienced writers. Good luck with your paper! Best regards,

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How Long is An Essay in 8th Grade? Writing Tips

Learn how long an essay should be in eighth grade and how to write a great essay by reading this article.

How long should an essay be in eighth grade? The format and the particular type of writing have a small impact on the length of the eighth-grade essay. However, the 8th-grade essay length varies from approximately 500 to 800 words. You must express yourself clearly and make all necessary points within this framework.

To help you write an essay in the eighth grade, we’ve prepared this list of imaginative topics, examples, and writing advice.

Table of Contents

How Long is An Essay in 8th Grade?

An essay for an eighth grade should be between 500 and 800 words long. In the eighth-grade essay, each paragraph must contain a minimum of 8 sentences. Additionally, keep in mind that the sentences are mostly complex or compound, flawless, and coherent. Also, keep in mind to use specific language to connect the sentences and paragraphs. Learn How Long is An Essay in 6th and 7th Grade.

To write an excellent 8th-grade essay, you should:

• Select a worthwhile subject, then decide how you will approach the issue.
• Create an outline.
• Formulate a succinct and clear thesis statement.
• If the essay type requires it, come up with at least three solid arguments.
• Impress your audience with a solid conclusion. Remember to proofread!

What is the 8th-Grade Essay Format?

You’ll learn what goes into an essay for the eighth grade in this section. You’ve entered a completely new level, which is the first thing to keep in mind. Therefore, your writing is longer and more complex than it was during your earlier academic years.

Beginning with the structure The fundamental parts are the same as in any type of essay:

• Introduction: An intro should contain something intriguing to catch your audience’s attention. It’s typically a hook or an opening sentence that piques readers’ interest in your essay. The next significant part of your introduction is the thesis statement . The reader learns about the topic of your essay from your paper’s central idea.
• Body paragraphs: Body paragraphs contain supportive arguments and evidence. They need to be reliable and convincing.
• Conclusion: After everything is written, you are to conclude the ideas you’ve delivered.

How to Write An Excellent Essay?

You can learn the easiest and most practical advice for writing an essay for the eighth grade in this section. Anyone in the eighth grade should be aware of these things.

• To find justifications and supporting information, look for trustworthy sources.
• Try to incite enthusiasm for writing; it will undoubtedly make the process easier for you.
• If you have a choice, pick the subject that most interests you.
• Use formal language, appropriate grammar, specific terms, and consistent phrases.
• Make your points more compelling by referencing credible quotations.

Don’ts

• Write clearly; an essay is a story. It ought to be exciting and reliable.
• Don’t make all your examples too similar: diversity is of the essence.
• Use graphic tools to emphasize the most important points in your text to avoid having it appear like an unreadable mess of words.
• Use only trustworthy sources and websites when citing information.
• Do not be afraid to express yourself honestly. Your eighth-grade essay is distinctive because of who you are and what you think.
• Don’t forget to edit your text once you’ve finished writing it.

Eighth Grade Essay Types

During middle school, we assume that you encounter various kinds of assignments. There were indeed descriptive and narrative essays among them. However, now you are to face other exciting formats of writing. Get to know a few new types in the section below.

Informative and Explanatory Writing

In their informative and explanatory papers , students use formal language to explain complex topics with relevant data, precise ideas, and logical analyses. A captivating introduction that gives a sneak peek at the subject matter should be the first step for children. They then present information that is well-organized and supported by data from reliable sources. Eighth graders should use a variety of “strategy tools,” including:

• information classification.
• Defining terms.
• utilizing transitional, academic, and subject-specific vocabulary words.
• Quoting sources.
• Factual information is included.
• Making comparisons.
• comparison of various circumstances.
• describing the causes and effects of relationships.
• including multimedia and graphics (charts, tables, and pictures).
• Using headings and bullet points for formatting.

The final paragraph should provide a summary of the essay’s main idea. Your child’s papers are likely to cover topics that students are familiar with — but still need to research in order to answer, like What are some ways we can conserve water in a drought? Or Explain how a specific invention has changed your life .

Narrative Writing

Eighth graders write narratives or stories that describe events in their lives (personal histories, memoirs) or imagined scenarios (fiction, fantasy). Effective storytelling strategies are taught to junior J.K. Rowlings, including how to introduce the narrator and characters, set the scene, and convey a point of view.

Students work on letting the events flow naturally, developing the characters’ personalities, and creating a compelling plot through the characters’ deeds, words, and thoughts.

Argumentative Essay

An argumentative essay is a piece of writing in which you present a claim and support it with convincing evidence. At this point, your goal is to persuade readers to agree with your viewpoint while they read.

You should provide specific data in your argumentative essay to support your position, such as statistics, figures, research studies, and polls.

Persuasive Essay

Similar to writing an argumentative essay, a persuasive essay is persuasive. There, you must choose a topic that is particularly pressing and form a strong opinion on it. Making your audience believe you are the main objective, just like in an argumentative essay.

Remember the three essentials of persuasive writing:

• It is clear that Logos appeals to logic. Clearly and logically communicate your ideas.
• By appealing to the reader’s sense of morality and ethics, ethos aims to persuade them.
• Pathos aids in emotional persuasion.

Conclusion: How Long is An Essay in 8th Grade?

In eighth grade, how long should an essay be ? 500 to 800 words are enough. You should write an introduction, body paragraphs, and a conclusion. The number of paragraphs should never be less than 8 sentences in one.

The Length of Each Part in an Essay

The Length of Different Kinds of Essays

The Length of Essays in Different Grades

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8th grade writing

by: Hank Pellissier | Updated: February 12, 2024

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Verbal has a double meaning for eighth grade writing: it refers to the oral presentations the kids will do and to this year’s focus on grammar — gerunds, participles, and infinitives.

Argument essays

Written in formal language, argument essays should start with an introduction that clearly presents the writer’s position and flows into a well-organized, research-backed argument that advocates for their position and argues against opposing claims. Your child’s writing should exhibit a profound understanding of the topic. Arguments should be logical and fueled by evidence from credible sources. Papers should end with a persuasive conclusion that summarizes the viewpoint and declares the topic resolved. Topics will vary, but you’ll often see teen issues such as: Are video games harmful to mental health? Should our school have uniforms? Should bullies be suspended or given a chance to make amends?

Informative and explanatory writing

In their informative and explanatory papers , students use formal language to explain complex topics with relevant data, precise ideas, and logical analyses. Kids should start with an intriguing introduction that previews the subject matter. Next, they present well-organized information that’s backed by evidence from credible sources. Eighth graders should use a variety of “strategy tools,” including:

• Classifying information.
• Defining terms.
• Using subject-specific, academic , and transition vocabulary words.
• Quoting sources.
• Incorporating factual details.
• Making comparisons.
• Contrasting different situations.
• Explaining cause-and-effect relationships.
• Including graphics (charts, tables, images) and multimedia.
• Using formatting (headings, bullet points).

Finally, the concluding paragraph should provide a synopsis of the main point of the essay. Your child’s papers are likely to cover topics that students are familiar with — but still need to research in order to answer, like If there is a drought, how can we save water? Or Explain how a specific invention has changed your life .

Narrative writing

Eighth graders write narratives or stories that describe events in their lives (personal histories, memoirs) or imagined scenarios (fiction, fantasy). Junior J.K. Rowlings learn effective storytelling techniques, such as introducing the narrator and characters, establishing context for the setting, and conveying a point of view. Students practice letting the sequence of events unfold, giving characters depth, and developing the plot through actions, dialogue, and reflection. Your future F. Scott Fitzgerald should use transition words to guide readers from one place and time to another. For example: Four hours later, Jack opened his locker to discover a shocking surprise . Or, Returning to the cafeteria, Tinsley saw the cute new boy sitting with her best friend, Amanda . Remember that even narratives have a conclusion, hopefully one that helps readers ponder the meaning of the story.

Changes and more changes

Grit. Concentration. Determination. Eighth graders strengthen their literary skills by revising their papers over and over again, following advice from teachers and classmates to re-imagine, re-outline, redraft, re-edit, rewrite, and try new approaches. Is this just a form of perfectionistic punishment? No, the practice helps teens learn to tighten their prose, pick stronger verbs, use more accurate descriptors, and organize their writing in the most effective and interesting ways.

Internet interaction

Your eighth grader will likely need the internet to create, type, and share their work, which will often have links to web sources and include graphics and multimedia. Also, these are typically typed. Your child should be tying about 40 words per minute. (Wisconsin’s Department of Public Instruction recommends a typing speed 5 times your grade . If your child needs practice, there are free typing classes for middle schoolers available online .)

It’s increasingly common for kids to be required to collaborate on projects online, often in Google Docs or Slides. What’s more, drafts and completed assignments are often turned in via email or by uploading to an online portal. So if your child’s technical skills aren’t up to snuff, think about getting your child a little extra help so these requirements don’t hold him back.

Evaluating their sources

Eighth graders do short projects that require research from multiple sources. Teens learn to evaluate the credibility of their sources. For example, Is Saturday Night Live as reliable as National Public Radio? No. Kids need to be careful about how they present information, paraphrasing information or using quotes to avoid plagiarizing, which Merriam-Webster defines as “to use the words or ideas of another person as if they were your own words or ideas.” The standard way to end all research projects? A bibliography, formatted correctly, of course, that shows both the quality and quantity of their sources.

Student critiques

Students get to do the critiquing this year — whether it’s a book or their classmate’s essay. Eighth graders analyze how modern fiction uses the plot, themes, and characters. Students look for connections and explain how a contemporary text borrows from, comments on, or changes the old foundation. For example, How does The Hunger Games trilogy use the Greek myth of Theseus and the Minotaur?

Students also evaluate the evidence their peers use in essays and to back up arguments. It helps them become more skilled at determining fact from fiction, legitimate truth from biased propaganda, scientific theories from fraudulent nonsense.

Eighth graders learn to identify verb voice. If the subject in a sentence does the action, then the verb is in the active voice, like this: The whale ate the shrimp. However, if the subject in a sentence is the target of the action, then the verb is in the passive voice, like this: The shrimp was eaten by the whale .

Presenting their work

Expect quite a few oral reports in eighth grade. In these presentations, kids need to deliver their arguments and the results of their investigations to the class. Key skills for a solid presentation include:

• using formal language;
• making eye contact;
• pronouncing things clearly and loudly enough for all to hear.

Your child’s presentations should be coherent, organized, logical, supported by evidence, and, in many cases, jazzed up with costumes, props, maps, music, sound effects, charts, and visual projection. Teens (and adults) often suffer from sweaty, knee-knocking stage fright. Inform your adolescent that this is totally normal; remind them to breathe and enjoy the attention.

Here’s a preview of the presentation skills required in high school.

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How long should an essay or research paper be?

These tips on how long an essay, research paper or writing assignment will help you make good grades and take your papers and essays from just ok to an A+ paper. Keep reading to finds some tips on essay writing such as how long an essay should be and how to make your essay longer or how make a research paper shorter.

How do you know how long an essay should be?

Many times an instructor will tell you how long an essay or a research paper should be or give you a page number range, such as saying the paper should be between 5-7 pages. If you don't have a page range, the length of your essay can depend on a lot of things. When in doubt, ask for guidance. If you can't get help, you'll have to guess.

During an essay test, usually one or two paragraphs will answer short essay questions.

For big essay tests, where there is only 1 question for a whole hour-long test, you will be expected to compose an entire essay. In that case, write 5 paragraphs including all the parts of a composition of between 1-2 written pages.

For high school papers , usually teachers want normal essays or research papers to be between 3-5 pages, and they expect more like 5-7 pages for final papers. In middle school or junior high school , normal papers will probably be 1-2 pages in length and final paper 2-4. Naturally, you should go by what your teacher tells you and only use this as a guide if you don't have more information.

In college , it depends on what level the class is and the level of importance of an assignment. Early in the semester or to review reading assignments, you will only have to write maybe 1-3 pages, or 5-7 for more important tasks.

For an final paper in an intro or 100-level college class, professors don't usually ask for more than 10-12 pages. For a final research paper at a 300-400 level or upper level course, you can be expected to produce papers of 15-20 pages. Naturally, this depends on the university you're attending, the professors' preferences and your field of study. Math majors will not have to write long papers. History majors will write lots of lengthy papers.

How long is each part of an essay?

If you are wondering how long each part of an essay (the introduction, the body and the conclusion) should be, here are some ideas of how to balance the length. The overall length of an essay will often depends on how big the topic is.

The list below will give you a rough idea, but the main point is that each part should be in proportion to the other parts. As an essay gets longer, the body should become longer than the corresponding introduction. The below outlines can give you a rough idea. Most teachers will not fault you for going too long, but they will dock your grade for writing too short of an essay, so err on the side of too long if you have to go one way.

How long should each section of a paper be?

For a 1 page essay or to write an answer to a long essay test , make each section one paragraph. 1. Introduction with thesis statement, 1 paragraph 2. Body point A, 1 paragraph 3. Body point B, 1 paragraph 4. Body point C, 1 paragraph 5. Conclusion, 1 paragraph For a 5 page essay: 1. Introduction, about 3/4 to 1 page 2. Body point A, about 1 page 3. Body point B, about 1 page 4. Body point C, about 1 page 5. Conclusion, about 3/4 to 1 page For a 10 page paper: 1. Introduction, about 1 page or 1 and a 1/2 pages 2. Body point A, about 2 and a 1/2 pages 3. Body point B, about 2 and a 1/2 pages 4. Body point C, about 2 and a 1/2 pages 5. Conclusion, 1 page or 1 and a 1/2 pages For a 15 page paper: 1. Introduction, about 1 and a 1/2 or 2 pages 2. Body point A, about 4 pages 3. Body point B, about 4 pages 4. Body point C, about 4 pages 5. Conclusion, about 1 and a 1/2 or 2 pages

More information : We hope this page was helpful and provided you with some information about how long an essay or research paper should be . Check out our main page for more articles here Can U Write .

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The Guide to 8th Grade: Reading and Writing

Review reading and writing curricula for 8th grade, including what to expect and resources to support learning..

In their last year of middle school, 8th graders immerse themselves in preparation for high school by practicing and strengthening skills they learned in earlier years of middle school while also learning new (and often more complex) skills.

In many ways, 8th grade is a year of transition, as students are expected to have mastered the ways of middle school and begin becoming “high-schoolers.” Specifically, 8th graders are expected to be independent thinkers and workers analyzing and explaining what they learn in both their writing and verbally. 

8th Grade Reading

In 8th grade, students continue to practice many of the skills they learned in earlier grades, specifically paying attention to details like text evidence, language, and cross-text comparisons in different genres of text. However, 8th graders push their analyses of texts further as they examine the details and writing structure and assess how those elements affect the text. 

In order to build reading skills, your 8th grader :

• Evaluates the evidence in texts to determine the strongest supports of an idea and analysis.
• Determines the main idea or theme of a text using evidence from the text to support it.
• Provides an objective summary of a text.
• Understands, summarizes, and tracks the progress of the main idea of a text, using evidence from the text.
• Analyzes how elements such as specific dialogue, events, or word usage impact the characters, the decisions they make, and other events and actions in the text.
• Understands the use of language in a text, including figurative language, analogies, and allusions to other texts.
• Compares and contrasts the different structures of texts including the structures of paragraphs and sentences.
• Analyzes the difference between characters’ points of view and how these differences affect the text.
• Analyzes the pros and cons of using different forms of text and media to present a topic or idea.
• Compares a text to a film or play version of a text, paying specific attention to the way in which the film or play veers from the text.
• Analyzes texts that include conflicting information on the same topic and decipher when those are due to conflicting facts or interpretations.

8th Grade Writing

In 8th grade, students continue to practice and refine many of the writing skills they learned in 7th grade while also learning some additional complex writing skills. Given that refining one’s writing can take time and practice, students are not expected to cover a great deal of new skills. However, they do learn some new techniques and skills that enhance their writing and enable them to become better writers.

In order to build writing skills, your 8th grader :

• Introductions
• Acknowledgements of opposing claims
• Logical and orderly presentation of reasons and evidence
• Graphics, special formatting, and multimedia, when appropriate
• Support of the claims through the use of evidence from credible sources
• A concluding sentence or paragraph that supports the argument made
• A formal tone and style
• Use supporting claims and evidence based on credible texts and resources
• Provide an introduction that includes an explanation of what follows
• Develop topics through the use of facts, details, quotations, examples, and subject-specific terms and definitions
• Include transitions that connect concepts, events, and paragraphs
• Include a conclusion that supports the presented idea(s)
• Maintain a formal “essay type” style
• Integrate other forms of media and formats such as graphs, charts, headings, audio, or video when appropriate
• A narrator, characters, and a point of view
• Descriptive detail and sensory language to describe characters, settings, and experiences
• Dialogue, pacing, reflection, and details and descriptions of characters, setting, and experiences
• Thought-out word choice
• A clear structure with a logical order and flow, as shown through the use of transition words and phrases and a logical sequence
• A conclusion that is connected to and builds on the narrative
• Plans, revises, and edits writing, specifically with guidance from teachers and peers, focusing specifically on trying new approaches and making sure the writing has a purpose and appeals to its audience.
• Uses technology and the Internet to produce and publish writing, work with others, and cite sources.
• Works on multiple short research projects that answer specific questions and cite multiple sources, while gathering additional questions for later research.
• Uses both print and digital resources to conduct research, focusing on using appropriate search terms and reliable sources.
• Uses quotes and a standard format for citation.
• Uses research to analyze and make inferences.

Shop the best resources for seventh grade below! You can find all books and activities at  The Scholastic Store . 

Explore other grade guides: 

• Kindergarten
• First Grade
• Second Grade
• Third Grade
• Fourth Grade  
• Fifth Grade
• Sixth Grade
• Seventh Grade

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EL Education Curriculum

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• ELA 2019 G8:M2:U2:L8

Write an Informative Essay: Analyze a Model and Plan an Introduction

In this lesson, daily learning targets, ongoing assessment.

• Technology and Multimedia

Supporting English Language Learners

Materials from previous lessons, new materials, closing & assessments, you are here:.

• ELA 2019 Grade 8
• ELA 2019 G8:M2
• ELA 2019 G8:M2:U2

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Focus Standards:  These are the standards the instruction addresses.

• W.8.2a, W.8.2b, W.8.4, W.8.5, SL.8.4, L.8.1b, L.8.3a

Supporting Standards:  These are the standards that are incidental—no direct instruction in this lesson, but practice of these standards occurs as a result of addressing the focus standards.

• RI.8.1, RI.8.10, W.8.6, W.8.7, W.8.8, W.8.10, SL.8.1, L.8.4, L.8.6
• I can plan an introduction to an informative essay that includes a strong focus statement. ( W.8.2a, W.8.4 )
• I can analyze a model to generate criteria of an effective informative essay on my selected research case study. ( W.8.2, W.8.4 )
• I can identify indicators for speaking clearly and using appropriate eye contact. ( SL.8.4 )
• Opening A: Entrance Ticket: Unit 2, Lesson 8 ( SL.8.4 )
• Work Time A: Language Dive: Model Essay: "GMOs," Paragraph 1 note-catcher ( W.8.2a, L.8.1b )
• Work Time B: Informative Writing checklist ( RI.8.1, W.8.2 )
• Closing and Assessment A: Informative Essay Writing Plan graphic organizer: plan of introduction ( W.8.2a, W.8.4 )

• Informative Writing Plan graphic organizer
• Homework: Painted Essay® Structure
• Review the Informative Writing checklist ( see the Tools page ).
• Review the Model Essay: “GMOs” and the Model Essay: “CSAs.”
• Strategically group students into pairs for the work in this lesson, with at least one strong reader per pair.
• Ensure there is a copy of Entrance Ticket: Unit 2, Lesson 8 at each student’s workspace.
• Predetermine partners for the work in Closing and Assessment A, to ensure all students are paired with a peer who is working with the same model essay.
• Post the learning targets and applicable anchor charts (see Materials list).

Tech and Multimedia

• Work Time A, Work Time B, and Closing and Assessment A: Prepare a device with a projector to display Entrance Ticket: Unit 2 Lesson 8; Model Essay: "CSAs"; Language Dive materials; and the Informative Writing Plan graphic organizer, and prepare devices for students if they will be using digital versions of these documents.
• Continue to use the technology tools recommended throughout previous modules to create anchor charts to share with families; to record students as they participate in discussions and protocols to review with students later and to share with families; and for students to listen to and annotate text, record ideas on note-catchers, and word-process writing.

Supports guided in part by CA ELD Standards 8.I.A.1, 8.I.A.3, 8.I.A.4, 8.I.B.5, 8.I.B.6, and 8.I.B.8.

Important Points in the Lesson Itself

• To support ELLs, this lesson invites students to analyze a second model essay and to participate in a Language Dive that addresses a sentence from the focus statement of the model essay about GMOs. Students will have already seen this sentence in the previous lesson while reading and analyzing the model essay. In the Practice portion of this Language Dive, students begin drafting the first sentence of the focus statement of their own essays. In Closing and Assessment A of the lesson, students begin planning the introduction of their essays.
• Students may find it difficult to plan the introduction of their essays. Encourage them to refine their focus statement first so that they can use it to guide their decisions about the rest of the introduction and the Proof Paragraph. Allowing time for oral processing before writing may help some students gain clarity around their ideas.
• Model Essay: "GMOs" (one for display; from Module 2, Unit 2, Lesson 7, Work Time A)
• Work to Become Effective Learners anchor chart (one for display; from Module 1, Unit 2, Lessons 4-5, Work Time D)
• Paint an Essay lesson plan (for teacher reference) (from Module 1, Unit 3, Lesson 6, Work Time A)
• Model Essay: “GMOs” (one per student; from Module 2, Unit 2, Lesson 7, Work Time A)
• Painted Essay® Template (one per student; from Module 1, Unit 3, Lesson 6, Work Time B)
• Access to Healthy Food: Independent Research note-catcher (one per student; from Module 2, Unit 2, Lesson 4, Work Time B)
• Researcher’s Toolbox (one per student; from Module 2, Unit 2, Lesson 1, Work Time A)
• Device with projector (see Technology and Multimedia)
• Entrance Ticket: Unit 2, Lesson 8 (example for teacher reference)
• Language Dive Guide: Model Essay: “GMOs,” Paragraph 1 (for teacher reference)
• Language Dive: Model Essay: “GMOs,” Paragraph 1 note-catcher (answers for teacher reference)
• Informative Writing: “CSAs” checklist (example for teacher reference)
• Model Essay: “CSAs” (example for teacher reference)
• Informative Writing Plan: “CSAs” graphic organizer (example for teacher reference)
• Informative Writing Plan: “GMOs” graphic organizer (example for teacher reference)
• Homework: Painted Essay® Structure (answers for teacher reference) (see Homework Resources)
• Devices (optional; one per student; see Technology and Multimedia)
• Entrance Ticket: Unit 2, Lesson 8 (one per student)
• Language Dive: Model Essay: “GMOs,” Paragraph 1 note-catcher (one per student)
• Language Dive: Model Essay: “GMOs,” Paragraph 1 sentence chunk strips (one per group)
• Model Essay: “CSAs” (one per student and one for display)
• Colored pencils (red, yellow, blue, green; one of each per student)
• Informative Writing: “CSAs” checklist (one per student and one for display)
• Informative Writing: Independent Research Essay directions (one per student and one for display)
• Informative Writing Plan graphic organizer (one per student and one for display)
• Homework: Painted Essay® Structure (one per student; see Homework Resources)

Each unit in the 6-8 Language Arts Curriculum has two standards-based assessments built in, one mid-unit assessment and one end of unit assessment. The module concludes with a performance task at the end of Unit 3 to synthesize students' understanding of what they accomplished through supported, standards-based writing.

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How To Improve Writing In Eighth Grade

Written by Dan

Last updated January 31, 2024

Improving writing skills is crucial for students in eighth grade. This is when students are transitioning from middle school to high school, and they need to have a solid foundation in writing to succeed in high school.

Writing is a vital skill in almost every aspect of life, and students need to learn how to write well at an early age.

Related : For more, check out our article on  How To Make Writing Fun  here.

Understanding the basics of writing is the first step towards improving writing skills. Students need to learn the fundamentals of grammar, punctuation, and sentence structure.

They also need to understand the different types of writing, such as persuasive, narrative, and informative writing. By mastering the basics, students can develop a strong foundation to help them in future writing projects.

Improving research and fact-checking skills is also essential for students in eighth grade .

Writing often involves research, and students need to know how to find reliable sources and how to fact-check their information. Developing good research skills will help students write more accurate and informative pieces.

Table of Contents

Key Takeaways

• Understanding the basics of writing is crucial for improving writing skills.
• Developing good research and fact-checking skills is important for accurate and informative writing.
• Practicing writing projects and revising and editing techniques can help students improve their writing skills.

Related : For more, check out our article on How To Improve Writing In Sixth Grade  here.

Understanding the Basics of Writing

Writing is a fundamental skill that every student must learn to master. In eighth grade , students are expected to have a solid foundation in writing, which includes understanding the basics of writing.

This section will cover the essential elements of writing that students must be familiar with to improve their writing skills.

Grammar and Formal Language

Grammar and formal language are critical aspects of writing. Students must have a good grasp of grammar rules and the appropriate use of formal language.

This includes understanding sentence structure, punctuation, and capitalization. Students must also be aware of the different types of sentence structures, such as simple, compound, and complex sentences.

Word Choice and Figurative Language

Word choice and figurative language are essential in writing. Students must choose their words carefully to convey their message effectively.

They must also be familiar with the different types of figurative language, such as similes, metaphors, analogies, and allusions, and know how to use them appropriately.

Narrative and Theme Development

Narrative and theme development are crucial in writing . Students must clearly understand the elements of a narrative, such as setting, plot, characters, and dialogue.

They must also know how to develop a theme and how to convey it effectively throughout their writing.

In conclusion, understanding the basics of writing is essential for eighth-grade students to improve their writing skills. By mastering grammar and formal language, word choice and figurative language, and narrative and theme development, students can elevate their writing to the next level.

Related : For more, check out our article on How To Improve Writing In Fifth Grade  here.

Improving Research and Fact-Checking Skills

Eighth-grade students are often required to complete research projects that require them to gather information from multiple sources. To improve their writing skills, students need to learn how to identify credible sources, incorporate evidence and data, and cite sources correctly.

Identifying Credible Sources

The internet is an excellent resource for research, but it is crucial to be able to distinguish credible sources from unreliable ones.

Students should look for sources written by an author with expertise in the field, contain facts and details that can be verified, and are published by a reputable organization. It is also important to consider the source’s bias and whether it presents a balanced view of the topic.

Incorporating Evidence and Data

Students should incorporate evidence and data from credible sources to support their arguments. They should look for graphs, charts, and other visual aids that can help to convey information.

When using evidence, students should make sure that it is relevant to their topic and explain how it supports their argument.

Citing Sources Correctly

To avoid plagiarism, students must cite their sources correctly. They should use a bibliography to list all of the sources they used in their research and in-text citations to credit the source’s author.

Students should use a citation style that is appropriate for their subject, such as MLA or APA.

Eighth-grade students can become more confident and knowledgeable writers by improving their research and fact-checking skills.

They will be able to gather accurate information, incorporate evidence and data, and cite their sources correctly, which will help them to write more persuasive and effective research projects.

Related : For more, check out our article on  How To Teach Children To Add Suspense To Their Writing  here.

Developing Writing Projects

Eighth-grade students can develop their writing skills by working on various writing projects. These projects can help them improve their writing skills and explore different writing genres. Here are some types of writing projects that can be helpful:

Writing Prompts and Creative Writing

Writing prompts can be a great way to get students started on a writing project. These prompts can be used to spark creativity and help students develop their writing skills.

Creative writing projects can include short stories, poems, and scripts. Students can use their imagination and creativity to produce original pieces of writing.

Writing Essays and Biographies

Writing essays and biographies can help students develop their research and writing skills. Essays can be used to explore a particular topic or issue, while biographies can be used to explore a particular person’s life.

Students can learn how to research a topic, analyze information, and present their findings clearly and concisely.

Scientific and Literature Writing

Scientific and literature writing can help students develop their analytical and critical thinking skills . Scientific writing can include lab reports, research papers, and scientific articles.

Literature writing can include book reviews, character analyses, and critical essays. Students can learn how to analyze and interpret data, as well as develop their writing skills.

When developing writing projects, it is important to consider the project’s audience, purpose, and format. Students should also consider using graphics and multimedia to enhance their projects.

Formatting and transition words can also make the writing clearer and more concise.

Overall, eighth-grade students can improve their writing skills by working on various writing projects.

By following these tips and advice, students can produce high-quality writing projects and develop their writing skills. Google Docs and Slides can be used to produce and share these writing projects.

Revising and Editing Techniques

Self-Editing Strategies

One of the best ways to improve writing skills is by self-editing. Eighth graders can use various self-editing strategies to improve their writing. First, they should read their work aloud to identify areas that need revision.

This technique helps them identify incomplete sentences, awkward phrasing, and other mistakes. They should also check their work for the main idea and ensure that their writing is well-organized with clear connections between ideas.

Second, students should look for passive voice and replace it with active voice. This technique helps to make the writing more engaging and interesting.

They should also avoid using repetitive words and phrases. Instead, they should use synonyms or rephrase sentences to make their writing more interesting.

Peer Feedback and Review

Another technique for improving writing in eighth grade is by getting feedback from peers. Students can form small groups and review each other’s work.

This technique helps them to identify areas that need improvement and provides an opportunity to learn from their peers. They should also provide constructive feedback to their peers.

When providing feedback, students should focus on the content, organization, and clarity of the writing. They should also check for spelling and grammar mistakes. Peer feedback and review help students to become better writers and improve their writing skills.

Utilizing Technology for Revision

Eighth graders can also use technology to improve their writing skills. There are many interactive worksheets and printable worksheets available online that provide instant feedback.

These worksheets are designed to help students practice writing and improve their skills.

Another way to utilize technology is by using online tools that provide direct links to writing resources. For example, students can use online tools that provide access to music that can help them focus and stay motivated while writing. They can also use online tools that provide access to writing prompts and exercises.

Overall, revising and editing techniques are crucial for improving eighth-grade writing skills. Students should use self-editing strategies, peer feedback and review, and utilize technology to improve their writing skills.

By doing so, they can become better writers and achieve success in their academic and professional lives.

Application and Practice

Writing in Different Contexts

Eighth-grade students need to learn how to write in different contexts, such as persuasive essays, informative essays, and narratives. They should also be able to write in different styles, such as formal and informal.

Teachers can give students examples of different writing styles and formats to help them understand the differences. Students can also practice writing in different contexts by choosing a topic and writing a short piece in each style.

Oral Presentations and Discussions

Writing is not just about putting words on paper, but also about communicating ideas effectively. In eighth grade, students should practice presenting their ideas orally and engaging in discussions.

Teachers can assign oral presentations and discussions on different topics to help students develop their communication skills. Students can also practice their presentation skills by recording themselves and watching the playback to identify areas for improvement.

Making Inferences and Drawing Conclusions

Eighth-grade students should be able to make inferences and draw conclusions from texts they read. They should be able to identify the main idea, supporting details, and author’s point of view.

Teachers can provide students with texts and ask them to identify the main idea, supporting details, and author’s point of view. Students can also practice making inferences and drawing conclusions by analyzing quotes and themes from books they read.

Overall, practicing writing in different contexts, engaging in oral presentations and discussions, and making inferences and drawing conclusions are important skills for eighth-grade students to develop.

These skills align with the Common Core State Standards and will help students succeed in high school and beyond.

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About The Author

I'm Dan Higgins, one of the faces behind The Teaching Couple. With 15 years in the education sector and a decade as a teacher, I've witnessed the highs and lows of school life. Over the years, my passion for supporting fellow teachers and making school more bearable has grown. The Teaching Couple is my platform to share strategies, tips, and insights from my journey. Together, we can shape a better school experience for all.

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Reading Worksheets, Spelling, Grammar, Comprehension, Lesson Plans

8th Grade Writing

For eighth graders, this Common Core area helps students gain mastery of writing skills by working collaboratively and producing written texts, understanding syntax and vocabulary, and organizing their ideas. Among the complete standards for this grade, eighth graders will be asked to: support the claims of their arguments with evidence, logical reasoning, and credible sources, use a formal style when writing, be able to develop the topic of a work with details, facts, definitions, and quotations, employ formatting, graphics, and multimedia to present information in the written medium, employ narrative techniques like pacing, description, reflection, and dialogue to develop events and characters within a text, go through the process of writing, editing and revision for their written work, use appropriate technology to publish writing and to collaborate on written projects, demonstrate keyboarding skill, go through the process of writing, editing and revision for their written work, conduct short research projects to answer a question, quote or paraphrase the data and conclusions of supporting texts while avoiding plagiarism and using proper citation, use evidence from literary or informational texts to support analysis, reflection, and research.

Abraham Lincoln Bio Poem

Your students will write a bio poem about Abraham Lincoln.

Bio Poem: My Mother

A fun Mother’s Day bio poem activity for your students!

Bio Poem: Pilgrim

A biography poem, also called a bio poem, is a short poem which describes a person or thing. This printable Thanksgiving Activity guides students through creating a bio poem about Pilgrims.

Bio Poem: Someone You Know

Students will write a bio poem about someone they know using the format set in this worksheet.

Christmas Tree Bio Poem

A biography poem, also called a bio poem, is a short poem which describes a person or thing. Sometimes writing a bio pem can be tricky! This printable Christmas Activity guides students through creating a bio poem about a Christmas tree.

Correct the Transition Words Mistakes – Worksheet

Have your students revise sentences and correct transition word mistakes with this educational writing activity.

Edgar Allan Poe: Secrets in Poetry

Students read from Edgar Allan Poe’s “An Enigma” and decipher the name of the woman’s whose name is hidden within the text.

Father’s Day Bio Poem: My Father

Enhance your students’ writing skills with this fun Father’s Day Biography Poem activity.

Fourth of July Bio Poem: America

Encourage your students to learn about America with this Fourth of July Biography Poem activity.

George Washington Bio Poem

Your students will write a bio poem about George Washington.

George Washington’s List of Rules

When George Washington was a young boy, he made a list of rules for himself. Students choose one of the rules and write what it means.

Halloween Bio Poem Activity: Ghost

Create a bio poem about your own personal ghost with our fun Halloween printable activity!

Main Idea Organizer

Teach your students how to organize their writing with this helpful Main Idea Organizer. Students will be asked to complete the worksheet by writing their own main idea, three details, and a summary. This will help your students better understand how to organize their ideas for writing in the future, especially when writing an essay!

Write a Biography Poem

Bio poems are usually short poems following a specific format. In this worksheet students will write a bio poem about themself.

Bio Poem: A President

Bio poems are usually short poems following a specific format. Students will write about a President in this worksheet.

Bio Poem: An Ocean

Have your students get creative by writing a bio poem about an ocean.

Editing and Proofing a Paragraph

Your students will further their editing and proofing skills by correcting a paragraph in this printable classroom worksheet.

George Washington: Almost a King

What if George Washington had become king? Students ponder this question and then write about what it would be like.

How to Write a Thesis Statement

This activity helps students develop a strong thesis statement for their essays by providing practice writing sample statements.

How to Write an Introduction: Bridge Building Activity

This activity is designed to help students learn about writing introductions through a fun bridge building activity to join the lead noun card and thesis statement card.

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How Long is an Essay: Length and Pages for Different Essays

How long is an Essay

When students are asked by their instructors, teachers, or professors to submit an essay, they are usually given a page limit to ensure that they do not write too much unnecessary content or too little.

At other times, students may be told to submit essays with a word limit. Normally, the word count should not go way below the requirement or higher, depending on the instructor’s preference or instructions. So, how many pages?

The length of an essay is a minimum of 2 pages all the way to 20 pages or above. The number of pages for an essay depends on the instructions of the assignment and the type of essay required. Short essays are 2 pages long, while medium essays are 5 pages. However, long essays are between 15 pages and 20 or more.

Factors Determining How Long an Essay Should be

An essay can have the same number of words but end up with a different number of pages with another one with the same length. This is because of different dynamics. Let us explore the various factors that determine the number of pages for an essay.

Also Read : 9 Different Types of Thesis Statements: With Examples for Each

1. Instructions of the Essay

The first obvious factor is the instructions provided by your instructor. As aforementioned, instructors will provide a page limit or word limit for most essays.

Therefore, if your instructor has specified that they require a certain number of pages, like 3 pages, for example, then you will need to write a 3-page paper to meet the scoring criteria.

You may be penalized if you write fewer or more pages. 

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2. the content of the essay.

The second factor that is tied to the first factor is the type of essay or content of your essay. Some essays will require you to provide detailed explanations to expound on every point. Such essays will be lengthy, with more pages.

However, some essays will require you to go straight to the point instead of expounding on every point. Such essays will be shorter because you will not write too much content.

3. The type and size of the Font

The third factor determining the number of pages for an essay is centered on the font and line spacing. When it comes to the font, if a larger font is used, then the number of pages will increase.

This is because a larger font will occupy more space. If a smaller font is used, then the number of pages will decrease because the number of words on each page will increase.

3. Spacing of the Line and Paragraphs

Concerning line spacing, if you use a smaller line-spacing option like 1.0 (single-space), then the number of pages in an essay will decrease.

If you use larger line spacing options like 2.0 (double-spaced) and above, then the page number will increase because fewer words will be needed to fill each page. 

4. The Size of the Paragraphs

Finally, the size of your essay’s paragraph will determine the number of pages for an essay.

If a paragraph is large, more words will fit into each page, reducing the need for an extra page to accommodate the words.

Smaller paragraphs that fit a third or a quarter of a page will increase the number of pages.

Number of words for common types of essays 

Also Read : Interpretive Essay Topics and Guide How to Write Interpretive Essays

Factors Determining the Number of Words in a Page

Various factors determine the number of words on a page . The first factor is spacing options. The smaller the spacing option, the more words will be required to fill a page.

The larger the spacing option, the fewer words that will be required to fill a page.

The second factor determining the number of words that can fit a page is the type of font, its size, and whether it is uppercase or lowercase.

This determines the number of paragraphs in an essay since large fonts tend to have many paragraphs than small fonts.

If smaller font sizes are used, more words will be required to fill a page.

If larger fonts are used, then fewer words will be required. Bold fonts occupy more space within a page, so fewer words will need to fill a page.

The same case applies to uppercase words. Uppercase words will occupy more space within a paragraph, decreasing the number of words required to fill a page.

Finally, the word limit required by the instructor will also determine the number of words on a page. Read more about an example of the number of pages in 1000 words to get the idea of what makes these factors come into play.

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Why do some Essays Require Single Space while others Double

The first reason is the type of essay and content. Some instructors will prefer letters to be written in a single space. Other instructors will prefer essays that require more explaining to be written in double space.

When the content of the essay is to be written straightforwardly, then the instructor will prefer the single-space option. In short, the type of line spacing will often depend on the instructor’s preference and the essay type. 

To know the difference between the number of pages for single-spaced and double-spaced, use our words-to-page converter , which is easy to use and absolutely free.

Also Read : How to Replace I in Essays: Alternative 3rd Person Pronouns

For many students, limiting their essay content to match the requirement is often difficult. This can be attributed to the fact that they do not know how many words fit a Word document and the factors that will affect the number of words within a page.

Jessica Kasen is experienced in academic writing and academic assistance. She is well versed in academia and has a master’s degree in education. Kasen consults with us in helping students improve their grades. She also oversights the quality of work done by our writers.

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• Writing Tips

How Many Paragraphs Should an Essay Have?

6-minute read

• 19th May 2023

You have an essay to write. You’ve researched the topic and crafted a strong thesis statement . Now it’s time to open the laptop and start tapping away on the keyboard. You know the required word count, but you’re unsure of one thing: How many paragraphs should you have in the essay? Gee, it would’ve been nice if your professor had specified that, huh?

No worries, friend, because in this post, we’ll provide a guide to how many paragraphs an essay should have . Generally, the number of paragraphs will depend on how many words and how many supporting details you need (more on that later). We’ll also explore the concept of paragraphs if you’re wondering what they’re all about. And remember, paragraphs serve a purpose. You can’t submit an essay without using them!

What Is a Paragraph?

You likely know what a paragraph is, but can you define it properly in plain English? Don’t feel bad if that question made you shake your head. Off the top of our heads, many of us can’t explain what a paragraph is .

A paragraph comprises at least five sentences about a particular topic. A paragraph must begin with a well-crafted topic sentence , which is then followed by ideas that support that sentence. To move the essay forward, the paragraph should flow well, and the sentences should be relevant.

Why Are Paragraphs Important?

Paragraphs expand on points you make about a topic, painting a vivid picture for the reader. Paragraphs break down information into chunks, which are easier to read than one giant, uninterrupted body of text. If your essay doesn’t use paragraphs, it likely won’t earn a good grade!

 How Many Paragraphs Are in an Essay?

As mentioned, the number of paragraphs will depend on the word count and the quantity of supporting ideas required. However, if you have to write at least 1,000 words, you should aim for at least five paragraphs. Every essay should have an introduction and a conclusion. The reader needs to get a basic introduction to the topic and understand your thesis statement. They must also see key takeaway points at the end of the essay.

As a rule, a five-paragraph essay would look like this:

• Introduction (with thesis statement)
• Main idea 1 (with supporting details)
• Main idea 2 (with supporting details)
• Main idea 3 (with supporting details)

Your supporting details should include material (such as quotations or facts) from credible sources when writing the main idea paragraphs.

If you think your essay could benefit from having more than five paragraphs, add them! Just make sure they’re relevant to the topic.

Professors don’t care so much about the number of paragraphs; they want you to satisfy the minimum word requirement. Assignment rubrics rarely state the number of required paragraphs. It will be up to you to decide how many to write, and we urge you to research the assigned topic before writing the essay. Your main ideas from the research will generate most of the paragraphs.

When Should I Start a New Paragraph?

Surprisingly, some students aren’t aware that they should break up some of the paragraphs in their essays . You need to start new paragraphs to keep your reader engaged.

As well as starting a new paragraph after the introduction and another for the conclusion, you should do so when you’re introducing a new idea or presenting contrasting information.

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Starting a paragraph often involves using transitional words or phrases to signal to the reader that you’re presenting a new idea. Failing to use these cues may cause confusion for the reader and undermine your essay’s coherence.

Let’s consider examples of transitional words and phrases in action in a conclusion. Note that the essay is about too much mobile device screen time and that transitional words and phrases can occur later in a paragraph too:

Thanks to “In conclusion” and “Additionally,” the reader clearly knows that they are now in the conclusion stage. They can also follow the logic and development of the essay more easily.

How Do I Know Whether I Have Enough Paragraphs?

While no magic number exists for how many paragraphs you need, you should know when you have enough to satisfy the requirements of the assignment. It helps if you can answer yes to the following questions:

• Does my essay have both an introduction and a conclusion?
• Have I provided enough main ideas with supporting details, including quotes and cited information?
• Does my essay develop the thesis statement?
• Does my essay adequately inform the reader about the topic?
• Have I provided at least one takeaway for the reader?

 Conclusion

Professors aren’t necessarily looking for a specific number of paragraphs in an essay; it’s the word count that matters. You should see the word count as a guide for a suitable number of paragraphs. As a rule, five paragraphs should suffice for a 1,000-word essay. As long as you have an introduction and a conclusion and provide enough supporting details for the main ideas in your body paragraphs, you should be good to go.

Remember to start a new paragraph when introducing new ideas or presenting contrasting information. Your reader needs to be able to follow the essay throughout, and a single, unbroken block of text would be difficult to read. Transitional words and phrases help start new paragraphs, so don’t forget to use them!

As with any writing, we always recommend proofreading your essay after you’ve finished it. This step will help to detect typos, extra spacing, and grammatical errors. A second pair of eyes is always useful, so we recommend asking our proofreading experts to review your essay . They’ll correct your grammar, ensure perfect spelling, and offer suggestions to improve your essay. You can even submit a 500-word document for free!

1. What is a paragraph and what is its purpose?

A paragraph is a group of sentences that expand on a single idea. The purpose of a paragraph is to introduce an idea and then develop it with supporting details.

2. What are the benefits of paragraphs?

Paragraphs make your essay easy to read by providing structure and flow. They let you transition from one idea to another. New paragraphs allow you to tell your reader that you’ve covered one point and are moving on to the next.

3. How many paragraphs does a typical essay have?

An essay of at least 1,000 words usually has five paragraphs. It’s best to use the required word count as a guide to the number of paragraphs you’ll need.

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How to Write an Eighth Grade Book Report

How to Start a Good Book Report

Book reports are essential to the critical reading process. They are used as a device for the reader to take a closer look at what she has read and gain a better understanding of its meaning. In the eighth grade, you may be required to write book reports for several of your classes, including language arts and social studies. To write the best book report you can, there are some simple guidelines you should follow.

Make notes in the margins of the book or on a separate sheet of paper as you read. If a certain quote or plot point seems important to you, underline it. If you don't understand a word, circle it and look up its definition in a dictionary. If you have any questions, make note as you go along. A few simple notes will help focus your book report.

Summarize the plot of the book. When writing your summary, it is important to know your audience. You may want to ask the assigning teacher if you should write to a reader who has never read the book or to someone who is familiar with the text. Either way, you should include a brief summary that introduces the setting and plot as well as a description of the main characters.

Create a thesis for your book report. This is essential to all successful essay writing. You may want to focus your report on an argument. For instance, if the report is on Charles Dickens's "Great Expectations," you may write about how setting is portrayed in the lives of the characters. Your book report does not have to be persuasive, however. It can be a thorough summary, a detailed character map or even a personal response to some aspect of the text.

Put yourself in the mind of the author. What would the author want you to take away from reading this book? Support your report with evidence that you have actively engaged with the text. Use quotes or descriptions from the text to prove your point or show your understanding.

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Liza Hollis has been writing for print and online publications since 2003. Her work has appeared on various digital properties, including USAToday.com. Hollis earned a degree in English Literature from the University of Florida.

• Reader Profiles

Why You Should Write at an 8th Grade Reading Level for Everyday Readers

According to the National Assessment of Adult Literacy , around 43% of American adults have basic or below-basic literacy skills.

Writing at an 8th grade reading level is a proven way to capture every type of reader without bias. It’s significant for non-native English speakers , too. Using simpler language and clear explanations helps to overcome learning and language barriers; we make our content more inclusive and comprehensible. Additionally, writing at this level can benefit individuals with reading difficulties or disabilities . A straightforward and concise writing style enhances accessibility and enables everyone to engage effectively with your content.

Research conducted by Nielsen Norman Group found that the average online reader comprehends only about 60% of the content they read.

Understanding the 8th Grade Readership Level

Let’s consider some real-world examples to grasp two key points: simplicity and clarity .

• Science Articles Imagine you’re writing a science article about photosynthesis for adult readers. Instead of using complex scientific terms, you could explain it like this: “ Plants make their own food using a process called photosynthesis. They use sunlight, water, and carbon dioxide to create energy and release oxygen .”
• News Articles Let’s say you’re writing a news article about a current event. Instead of lengthy sentences and technical jargon, you could write a clear and concise headline like this: “ New Technology Helps Clean Up Ocean Pollution .”
• Social Media Posts Imagine you’re creating a social media post to engage with a diverse audience. Instead of using complex language and lengthy sentences, you could write a simple and engaging message like this: “📢 Exciting news! Our new store is now open! Come and check out the latest trends and amazing deals. See you there! #GrandOpening #FashionFinds “
• Health and Wellness Blog Suppose you’re writing a blog post about the benefits of exercise. Instead of using technical terms that specialists only know, you could explain it in a relatable way: “ Moving your body through exercise is like giving your heart and muscles a workout. It helps you stay strong, feel energized, and even boosts your mood. So, let’s get active and have some fun! “
• Travel Guide Description Imagine you’re writing a travel guide description for a popular tourist destination. Instead of using complex descriptions, you could write a short, enticing summary like this: “ Welcome to Paradise Island! With its white sandy beaches, crystal-clear waters, and vibrant marine life, this tropical paradise offers a perfect getaway. Enjoy snorkeling, sunbathing, and unforgettable sunsets. “
•   Recipe Instructions When providing recipe instructions for a delicious homemade pizza, keep it simple and clear: “ Spread pizza sauce on the dough. Sprinkle cheese and your favorite toppings. Bake at 400°F for 12-15 minutes or until golden brown. Enjoy your homemade pizza! “
• Product Description When describing a new smartphone in a product brochure, focus on key features without overwhelming technical details: “ Introducing our latest smartphone! Enjoy a stunning display, fast performance, and a high-resolution camera that captures beautiful memories. Stay connected and explore the world of apps effortlessly .”
• How-To Guide When writing a how-to guide on assembling a piece of furniture, break it down into easy-to-follow steps: “ Step 1: Lay out all the parts and tools. Step 2: Follow the instruction manual and connect pieces A and B. Step 3: Attach pieces C and D using screws. Repeat for remaining parts. Step 4: Secure the completed sections together. Voila! Your furniture is assembled! “
• Safety Instructions When providing safety instructions for using household appliances, focus on clear and concise guidelines: “ To operate the microwave safely, place food inside, set the desired time, and press start. Always use microwave-safe containers and avoid heating metal objects. Never leave the microwave unattended during use .”
• Event Announcement When announcing a school event in a newsletter, provide essential details in a straightforward manner: “ Save the date! Our school’s annual talent show will take place on Friday, June 15th, at 6:00 PM in the auditorium. Come cheer on your classmates as they showcase their amazing talents! “

In these examples, we use simple language and avoid unnecessary complexity.

The American Press Institute states that most news articles in the United States are written at a 7th- to 8th-grade reading level.

Engaging Readers and Maintaining Interest

To keep everyday readers engaged, we need to know how to capture their attention.

• Captivate : Begin with a captivating introduction. Use a compelling question, an interesting fact, or a relatable anecdote to grab readers’ attention from the start. This sets the tone and makes them eager to continue reading.
• Clear and Concise Language : Use clear and concise language to convey your message effectively. Avoid unnecessary details or complex explanations. Don’t confuse or bore readers. Be direct and get straight to the point. Ensure readers can easily understand your ideas.
• Visual Aids and Multimedia : Use visual aids, such as images, charts, or diagrams. Visual elements help readers visualize concepts, making the information accessible and memorable. Use multimedia elements like videos or interactive content to increase engagement.
• Dissect : Present information in smaller, digestible chunks. Use subheadings, bullet points, or numbered lists to organize your content. Breaking down complex ideas into simpler parts helps readers to follow along and comprehend the information.
• Foster Interaction : Encourage readers to interact with the content. Ask questions, provide opportunities for reflection, or include interactive elements like quizzes or polls. This creates an active reading experience.

A study published in the Journal of Applied Psychology found that employees who receive written instructions at a lower reading level perform better and make fewer errors than those who receive complex instructions.

How to Communicate Complex Ideas Effectively

Don’t overwhelming everyday readers with complex ideas. Here’s how.

• Simplify without Oversimplifying : When presenting complex ideas, strive for simplicity without sacrificing accuracy. Dissect intricate concepts into manageable pieces. Use clear language to explain them. Avoid unnecessary technical terms or jargon; provide relatable examples or comparisons instead.
• Organize Information : Organize your content in a logical and structured manner. Use headings, subheadings, or numbered points to create a clear flow of information. Help readers follow your ideas and grasp the connections between different concepts.
• Use Analogies and Metaphors : Analogies and metaphors can be powerful tools for conveying complex ideas in a relatable way. Compare unfamiliar concepts to familiar ones, making them easier to understand. For example, explaining a computer’s memory as a “virtual filing cabinet” helps readers grasp the concept more easily.
• Provide Context and Background : Before diving into complex ideas, provide readers with the necessary context and background information. Briefly explain the relevant background knowledge. Help readers improve their understanding so they can grasp the complexities of the topic.
• Reinforce Key Points : Repetition and reinforcement are essential for understanding and retention. Summarize key points throughout your writing, emphasizing their importance. Reinforce the main ideas to  help readers remember the key takeaways.

A study by Labrador and BVA Group revealed how people feel when they read text written in plain English. They found a clear result: text written simply is more enjoyable to read. They identified four main benefits of using simple language:

• Faster Reading : People can read a 100-word paragraph in simple language in less than 30 seconds–this is 50% faster than more complex text. This was true for 60% of the participants.
• Quicker Understanding : Readers are 38% more likely to understand text in simple language. This approach combines efficiency and clarity, ensuring that reading speed does not impact understanding.
• Improved Message Retention : The study found that 41% more readers retained key information from text written in simple language.
• Clarity : 64% of readers thought text in simple language was well-written. And 34% more people found it well-organized, helping them to engage more easily with the message.

How to Connect with Your Audience

It’s important to build a strong connection with your audience. Here’s how :

• Establish Trust and Credibility : Provide accurate information and reliable sources. Clearly state your expertise or qualifications on the topic. This will build confidence and establish trust, making readers more receptive to your message.
• Understand Readers’ Needs : Put yourself in your readers’ shoes and understand their needs and interests. Consider what information they are seeking and how you can address their questions or concerns.
• Use Relatable Writing : Write in a relatable and conversational tone to engage your readers. Avoid overly formal or technical language. Instead, use everyday language that your readers can easily understand and connect with. This creates a friendly and approachable atmosphere.
• Address Reader Questions : Anticipate and address reader questions within your writing. Think about potential areas of confusion. Provide clear explanations.
• Encourage Interaction : Encourage readers to engage with your content by posing questions or inviting them to share their thoughts. Incorporate opportunities for feedback, comments, or discussion. Make your readers feel valued.

The Plain Language Action and Information Network (PLAIN) reports that 36 million adults in the U.S. have limited reading skills, highlighting the need for clear and simple communication.

Writing for everyday readers is not about dumbing down your writing; it’s about smart writing : cleverly using concise and succinct words that don’t alienate readers or make them struggle to read your message.

Scott, Brian. “Why You Should Write at an 8th Grade Reading Level for Everyday Readers.” ReadabilityFormulas.com , 19 Nov. 2023, https://readabilityformulas.com/why-you-should-write-at-an-8th-grade-readership-for-everyday-readers/.

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How Long Is an Essay? The Ultimate Essay Length Guide

It’s safe to say that most students struggle with the word limit within an essay. Sometimes, it’s hard to find ideas for a text and meet the word requirement for every part of the paper. With so many factors influencing essay length, it’s easy to get confused.

Luckily, our custom-writing team has your back. In this article, our custom-writing experts will answer all your questions regarding essay length. We will also help you write papers with an ideal number of words!

📜 Is Essay Length Important?

📏 essay parts: recommended length.

• 🤔 How to Make Essays Shorter or Longer
• 📑 Essay Length & Formatting
• ❓ Different Academic Levels FAQ
• 📚 Essay Length: Different Types
• ⭐ Other Aspects
• 📝 Essay Examples

🔍 References

Often, the phrase “word limit” causes panic among students. After all, if an essay is too long or too short, your grade will be lowered. However, in reality, there’s nothing to worry about. When it comes to words, limitations are beneficial for both the students and the professors.

Let’s see what exactly it means.

Many people believe that the longer an essay is, the better. However, according to Frontiers, research shows that it’s a bias that couldn’t be further from the truth. A perfect-length paper is one that allows students to express their ideas and showcase their knowledge fully while keeping it clean and simple.

What Influences Essay Length

Various factors determine the length of an essay. Here are the most important ones:

Let’s start with the essentials. Usually, assignment length is given as a number of words rather than pages. Unless your supervisor or instructor mentions any specific limitations, it’s acceptable to be 10% below or above the word limit.

It’s also worth knowing the 80/20 rule . According to it, the body should constitute 80% of the text, while the intro and the conclusion take up the remaining 20%.

Keep reading to learn more about the recommended length of each essay part. The main numbers are shown in the table below:

How Long Should an Introduction Be?

An introduction is the first section and the face of your essay. For that reason, it needs to be compelling and well-thought-out. Usually, it consists of 3 to 5 sentences or 50 to 80 words .

An introduction must have a hook, some background information, and a thesis statement. While the attention grabber and the thesis are usually brief, you may need 2 to 3 sentences for the background. To avoid going overboard, try to stay on topic and don’t add any filler.

How Long Is a Body Paragraph in an Essay?

The length of a body paragraph may vary. Sometimes, it can be limited to a single sentence. In other cases, it may take up a whole page. Usually, it’s recommended to have between 80 and 200 words (5-8 sentences) per body paragraph.

Since the paper’s body contains the most information, it’s necessary to explain and support your ideas properly. That’s why it’s no big deal if your body paragraphs go slightly over the word limit.

How Many Body Paragraphs Should Be in an Essay?

Like the word count, the number of paragraphs is determined by the type of paper and its topic. The minimum is 1. Generally, however, the body consists of 3-5 paragraphs , 1 for each argument.

To improve your paper’s structure, ensure that there are as many paragraphs as there are points in your thesis statement. Each one should have a purpose and support your arguments. If there’s any fluff, it’s better to get rid of it.

How Long Should a Conclusion Be?

Like the introduction, the conclusion consists of 50-80 words . It’s essential to keep it simple and only mention the central ideas. A weak concluding sentence may affect the reader’s understanding of the topic and spoil the overall impression of your paper.

🤔 How to Make Essays Shorter or Longer: Best Tips

Undoubtedly the essay’s content is more important than the number of words you use. But there are times when students go more than 10-15% below or over the limit. Is there a solution to this problem?

Yes, there is! In this section, we will share the most useful tips to help you stay on point with your paper’s word count.

How to Make Essays Longer

Since having enough words is essential for a good grade, we’ve collected the best tips that can help you lengthen your essay without teachers noticing:

• Use relevant quotations.  You don’t need to litter your essay with citations, but using them whenever appropriate is a great idea. For instance, if you’re working on a book analysis, referencing a couple of direct quotes from the source text will make your essay more credible and increase the word count.

• Give examples.  Go through the claims in your paper and provide additional evidence where possible. It will make your essay longer and more informative.

• Use transitional expressions.  Adding transition words and phrases is a natural way of increasing the number of words. It will also improve your essay’s readability. 

• Add more references.  Providing references is always a good idea when writing a formal essay. That way, you will increase the number of words and make your paper more credible.

• Work on your descriptions.  If you struggle to develop new ideas, go over what you’ve already written and consider adding some descriptive words. It’s a great idea for creative essays to include more imagery. 

How to Shorten an Essay

Another struggle of academic writing is cutting down the number of words in your essay to meet a set limit. We are here to tell you that it’s not that hard. Writing straightforwardly and keeping your sentences short is a key to concise content. Here are several strategies you may use to tighten a lengthy essay:

• Choose the active voice.  It takes up less space than passive voice. Using it also makes your writing more professional and compelling.

• Remove needless transitions.  Transitions can indeed maintain the flow of the paper. But some transitional phrases can be easily removed.

• Get rid of unnecessary adverbs and adjectives.  Some students tend to overuse adjectives and adverbs. It adds wordiness to their writing.

• Avoid running starts.  Some students like to start their sentences with long phrases like: “there are,” “it is believed,” or “the fact that.” Getting rid of them makes texts much more concise.

• Delete “that.”  In most cases, the word “that” can often be easily removed from texts.

Another cool trick is to use our summarizing tool as essay shortener. Try it out!

📑 How Long Is an Essay Depending on Formatting?

As we mentioned earlier, the essay’s length is usually limited by the number of words. But sometimes, a teacher may ask you to write a specific number of pages. This is trickier because the amount of text you can place on the page depends on the formatting. By using the font size and spacing properly, it’s possible to make the paper visually longer or shorter. Let’s discuss it in more detail.

Essay Spacing: How Does It Affect the Length?

• Adjusting the spacing between lines.  Try to make the changes as slight as possible. For instance, if you were asked to double-space the paper, use 2.1 or 2.2 spacing instead. Another option is to slightly extend spaces between paragraphs.
• Extending the margin size.  You can increase the right and bottom margins by a quarter to make very subtle changes in length. For example, if the margins are 1 inch , you can set them at 1.25 inches instead. 
• Increasing the spacing between characters.  It is less noticeable than the line spacing. Still, try not to overdo it and keep the numbers between 1.2 and 1.5 . 
• Adjusting the footer.  Add a footer with page numbers to stretch the bottom margin even further.
• Lengthening the header.  You can extend your header by adding your name, e-mail address, or other relevant information. Another option is double-spacing it.

Length of an Essay: Font and Size

• Using the right type of font.  If your instructor didn’t specify which font you should use, go for the bigger ones. We suggest Arial, Bangla Sangam MN, Cambria, or Quicksand. They will make your text look longer without being too on the nose.  
• Using a bigger font size.  This is another technique that can come in handy. However, be careful and don’t increase your font by more than 0.1-0.5 pt.  
• Increasing the size of periods and commas.   This is one of the less noticeable tricks you can use. For instance, if your paper’s font is 12 pt. , increase it to 14 pt. only for punctuation marks. Italicizing periods and commas will also add several lines of length to your essay. 

What to Do if There Are No Length Guidelines

Sometimes a teacher sets no word limit for a written work. What to do in that case? Well, first, you can ask your professor to confirm if they have simply forgotten to mention it. But if that’s not the case, here are a couple of helpful solutions:

• Think of the paragraph number.  Sometimes, you may be given the number of paragraphs instead of words. In that case, you can decide on the number of words depending on how many paragraphs you have. 
• Think about the topic’s complexity.  The length of your paper is also directly dependent on the theme. If the topic is simple, 4-5 paragraphs will be enough. A more complex issue may require an in-depth explanation, so your essay can be 6-8 paragraphs long.

❓ Essay Length for Different Academic Levels FAQ

The length of the elementary school essay is usually short. Usually, a paper needs to have around 3-5 paragraphs, with 4-5 sentences per paragraph. Primary school essays can be 1-2 paragraphs long.

The word limit for a middle school essay is usually between 300 to 1000 words. The most common essay length is 500 words, which is about 5 paragraphs. However, it may differ from school to school.

The length of the high school essay may differ depending on the school and the complexity of the task itself. Usually, however, a paper can be between 300 to 1000 words long.

The length of the undergraduate college essay often falls within the range of 1500 to 2100 words. It translates into roughly 5-7 pages. 5 pages is the most common essay length at this level.

When it comes to the graduate school admission essay, the word limit is usually between 500 and 1000 words. It’s possible to go slightly over or below the set limit; however, it’s best to stick to the requirements as close as possible.

📚 How Long Should an Essay Be: Different Types

Now, let’s talk about different types of essays. How long should they be? Keep reading to learn about the length of college essays, short and extended ones, scholarship essays, and research papers.

How Long Is a College Essay?

When it comes to a college essay, it’s more important to stick to the word limit than with any other paper. Some teachers may refuse to read it unless it meets all the requirements.

The shortest limit for a college essay is about 250 words which is the shortest length of a Common App personal statement. It’s also rare to see a good college essay with over 650 words . So, an average piece usually has between 150 and 650 words ; you can go over or below the limit by 50.

How Long Is a Paragraph in College Essays?

A college essay usually consists of 4-5 paragraphs . One paragraph takes about 1/3 of the page, which is roughly 5 sentences . Each sentence corresponds with one of the following components:

• Topic sentence.
• Explanation.
• Transitions.

College Essay Length Requirements: Top 5 Schools

To understand the requirements for a college application essay even better, take a look at the table below. It showcases the top 5 schools and their length criteria for personal statements. Keep it in mind when writing your college essay:

How Long Is a Short Essay?

A short essay is usually 500 words long. Using 12pt Times New Roman font with standard margins and double spacing should result in about 2 pages of text.

Extended Essay Length

An extended essay is different from a short or a standard one. It requires extensive research and thorough explanation. That’s why the upper limit for this kind of essay is 4000 words . In this case, a typical essay length is 3500 words or 18 paragraphs .

Scholarship Essay Length

Generally, scholarship papers have a limit of 500 words , which is 1 page in length. Most scholarship programs provide additional requirements that indicate the minimum number of words or pages. If there are no set limitations, you can stick to the limit.

How Long Is a Research Paper?

Typically, a research paper is between 4000 and 6000 words long. Sometimes, there are shorter papers, which have around 2000 words, or in-depth ones with over 10000 words.

⭐ Other Aspects of Essay Length

When it comes to essay length, many different aspects come into play. Here, we’ve gathered all the essential information regarding an essay’s number of pages, paragraphs, words, and references.

How Many Paragraphs Are in an Essay?

Sometimes, it is more convenient to count paragraphs rather than words. Let’s now figure out how many paragraphs are in essays of different lengths. You may also check out the examples to see what such an essay looks like:

How to Count Paragraphs in an Essay Based on Word Count

You can also count the number of body paragraphs for your essay using the formula below:

Number of body paragraphs (average) = (TWC – TWC*0.16)/100

• TWC – total word count
• 0.16 – an average percentage of total word count for introduction and conclusion
• 100 – an average number of words per paragraph

How Many Pages Are in an Essay?

The number of pages in your essay may vary from subject to subject. But it’s still possible to determine the number of pages based on word count. Check out the numbers below to see the conversions with bonus examples:

You can also use a specialized calculator such as Word Counter to determine a number of pages in your essay.

What Does an Essay Look Like when Typed?

You might be wondering: what do essays of different lengths look like when typed? Well, here’s the table where you can find out the metrics for single- and double-spaced papers.

How Many Pages Are in a Handwritten Essay?

In case you need to turn in a handwritten paper, you should check out the table below.

Counting Words in a Handwritten Essay

If you don’t have enough time to count the words in your handwritten essay one by one, here’s what you can do:

• Count how many words there are in one line. Take the first and last lines and a line in the middle of a page. Let’s say there are 15, 14, and 15 words in them. Then, the average number of words per line is 15.
• Next, count how many lines there are on one page. Let’s say there are 17 lines on a page.
• Take the number of words per line and multiply it by the number of lines per page. In our case, we multiply 15 by 17. So, there are 255 words per page on average.
• Finally, multiply the number of words per page by the number of pages. If your essay has 3 pages, it is approximately 765 words long.

How Long Does it Take to Write an Essay?

It is crucial to know how long writing will take you, especially if you are working on an exam essay or just short on time. Note that you need to consider the time for typing and researching necessary to complete a piece. Research time may vary. Usually, it’s 1-2 hours for 200-250 words .

Below, we’ve gathered the average writing time for average and slower writing speed:

And here are the results in pages:

How Many References Does an Essay Need?

Another essential part of any composition is the reference list. Different academic levels require different references. You’ll find out how many of them should be in your paper in the table below!

📝 Essay Examples: Different Length

Finally, we’ve gathered some excellent sample essays of different lengths. Make sure to check them out!

We also recommend you check out our free essay samples sorted by pages:

• 1-Page Essay Examples
• 2-Page Essay Examples
• 3-Page Essay Examples
• 4-Page Essay Examples
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Now you know all about essay length, word limits, and ways to lengthen or shorten your text. If you know other interesting tricks, make sure to share them in a comment! Good luck with your writing assignments!

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How Long Should My Academic Essay Be?

When you're given an academic essay assignment, it's easy to feel overwhelmed—especially if English is your second language or you have limited experience with academic writing. Academic essays can range from a few paragraphs to book-length dissertations, so the scope of expectations varies widely based on the school you're attending, the class you're taking, the departmental expectations, and (most especially) the professor giving you the assignment.

However, if you're new to academic essay writing and are stressing over the length it should be, keep in mind that in most situations, your questions will be answered by your professor or the admissions committee assigning you the essay in the first place. When an assignment is given, some professors are very specific on their expectations, including what they expect the word count to be.

For most assignments, you'll likely be given guidelines based on word count (for example, 1,000 to 1,200 words) or page count (3 to 5 pages, double-spaced). You might also be given guidelines on the citation format to use, how many sources you should have, and even the publication date range of those sources. Some professors like to be extremely specific on their expectations for each academic essay assignment, while others might be more lenient and less structured in their guidelines. And of course, these guidelines will vary based on the type of academic essay and its purpose.

General guidelines for essay length

Middle school.

Academic essay assignments typically start in middle school in the American education system and fall within the range of 300 to 800 words. In these grades, you'll be learning the basic 5-paragraph essay structure, which includes an introduction, a thesis statement, the body, and a conclusion. In the typical 5-paragraph essay format, the first paragraph should be the introduction, the second through fourth paragraphs should be the body of the essay, and the fifth paragraph should be the conclusion. In very rare instances would your introduction or conclusion take up more than one paragraph for these types of essays.

High school

In high school, you'll still likely need to write a 5-paragraph essay, although some teachers (especially English and Language Arts) will start to require longer essays (3 to 5 pages). This is to prepare you for the rigor of academic writing that you'll be fine-tuning in college. In these essays, you will still have the basic format of introduction, body and conclusion; however, you'll expand the body to more thoroughly explore or explain a topic. The conclusion of your 3 to 5-page essay will likely still fall within one paragraph, although the introduction might be more than one, depending on the topic.

University (Undergraduate level)

Once you get admitted into an undergraduate program, the length of your academic essay assignments will vary significantly, depending on the classes you take and the departments you take them in. You'll also encounter classes that require academic essays of varying length as the semester progresses, with a longer essay due as the final assignment for a greater percentage of the class grade. In most cases, these longer academic writing assignments will be structured in such a way in that parts of the essay assignment must be turned in at different times, with all sections being put together as a final paper.

For example, in an advanced-level English class, your professor might assign multiple shorter essays of 5 to 7 pages (or 1,500 to 2,100 words) and one final essay that explores a topic in more depth at 8 to 10 pages (or 2,400 to 3,000 words). Another class, such as a core curriculum survey course, might require fewer essays or more journal prompt-type writing assignments.

University (Graduate level)

Much the same as the undergraduate level of college, graduate-level academic writing assignments will vary based on several factors, such as the professor, the course, the department, and the program of study. One university program might require extensive writing while another might be more lab-based or hands-on experience.

Graduate level is also where you're likely to first encounter "thesis" and "dissertation" academic writing assignments, which can go up to 100,000 words or more. These types of assignments obviously require extensive planning, research, and writing time, but you'll likely be given very specific word count and citation requirements when being assigned the paper to write.

Graduate level writing is significantly more involved than the 5-paragraph essay format and contains elements such as sections related to a review of literature, background of the topic/theoretical framework, methodology of research, and your specific findings. These separate sections might have their own word count limits and requirements, with some requiring significantly more time and writing than others. As with some undergraduate assignments, you might be asked to submit these academic writing assignments in stages or sections, including a proposal, a list of your sources, etc.

Beyond word and page count

Even if you stay within a certain word or page count that is required for an academic writing assignment, you could still receive a poor grade for not using that count wisely. For example, it's possible to write a 3 to 5-paragraph paper that is disorganized and illogical, in the same sense that an 8-page essay might have the same faults.

Here are some important guidelines to follow when writing an academic essay, regardless of the word count required:

• Always carefully outline before you begin writing. An outline will help you cover everything that should be covered and ensure that you've included all of the required parts of the essay (introduction, thesis statement, etc.)
• Never allow your academic essay writing style to appear rambling, off-topic, or full of "filler" words. While the topic you're writing about might be new to you, your professor will likely know it extensively and will be able to tell if you're writing just to fill space.
• Do your best to avoid hedging. Hedging is when you essentially dance around a topic with vague statements but never have an actual stance on it. In most forms of academic writing, you're expected to make a clear assumption or thesis statement and then back up your claim with solid research and/or data.

So, can I go over or under word count?

Ultimately, it will always be in your best interest to stay within word count requirements given to you on assignments. Word count or page count limits are given to you for a reason—your professor knows exactly how in-depth you can explore a topic or topics given that word count restriction. If you find that you are significantly under word count when you've completed your writing assignment, it's likely that you haven't explored the topic to the depth expected of you by your instructor. A poor or failing grade might be the result, as it will be clear to your professor that you either didn't understand the topic or didn't take the time needed to research it correctly.

Some professors will allow word count that is over suggested limits a lot more readily than word count that is under them. However, keep in mind that if you have gone significantly over word count in your academic essay assignment, it's always a good idea to ask your teacher if this is acceptable. He or she might have such a heavy student and research load that they are simply unable to read hundreds of essays that are over the suggested word count limit, and might be forced to stop reading once you've reached it. This means that important parts of your writing will not be read and could affect your teacher's grade choice for the assignments.

This is also true for college admissions essay assignments. Admissions committees might be reading the essays of thousands of applicants and need those writers to stay within word count restrictions for the sake of time and logistics. Allowing one applicant to write extensively more could also put that applicant at an unfair advantage, so word count restrictions should always be followed. For a more in-depth look at what you should and shouldn't do on your college admissions essay, check out this article on writing a college admissions essay that stands out from the crowd .

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How Long Should a College Essay Be? | Word Count Tips

Published on September 29, 2021 by Kirsten Courault . Revised on June 1, 2023.

Most college application portals specify a word count range for your essay, and you should stay within 10% of the upper limit. If no word count is specified, we advise keeping your essay between 400 and 600 words.

You should aim to stay under the specified limit to show you can follow directions and write concisely. However, if you write too little, it may seem like you are unwilling or unable to write a thoughtful and developed essay.

Table of contents

Word count guidelines for different application types, how to shorten your essay, how to expand your essay, other interesting articles, frequently asked questions about college application essays.

Each university has a different suggested or required word count depending on which application portal it uses.

Some application portals will allow you to exceed the word count limit, but admissions officers have limited time and energy to read longer essays. Other application portals have a strict limit and will not allow you to exceed it.

For example, in the Common App , the portal will not allow you to submit more than 650 words. Some colleges using the Common App will allow you to submit less than 250 words, but this is too short for a well-developed essay.

For scholarship essays , diversity essays , and “Why this college?” essays , word count limits vary. Make sure to verify and respect each prompt’s limit.

Don’t worry too much about word count until the revision stage ; focusing on word count while writing may hinder your creativity. Once you have finished a draft, you can start shortening or expanding your essay if necessary.

Prevent plagiarism. Run a free check.

On some application portals, you can exceed the word limit, but there are good reasons to stay within it:

• To maintain the admissions officer’s attention
• To show you can follow directions
• To demonstrate you can write concisely

Here are some strategies for shortening your essay.

Stay on the main point

It’s good to use vivid imagery, but only include relevant details. Cut any sentences with tangents or unnecessary information.

My father taught me how to strategically hold the marshmallow pierced by a twig at a safe distance from the flames to make sure it didn’t get burned, ensuring a golden brown exterior.

Typically, my father is glued to his computer since he’s a software engineer at Microsoft. But that night, he was the marshmallow master. We waited together as the pillowy sugary goodness caramelized into gooey delight. Good example: Sticks to the point On our camping trip to Yosemite, my family spent time together, away from technology and routine responsibility.

My favorite part was roasting s’mores around the campfire. My father taught me how to hold the marshmallow at a safe distance from the flames, ensuring a golden brown exterior.

These college essay examples also demonstrate how you can cut your essay down to size.

Eliminate wordiness

Delete unnecessary words that clutter your essay. If a word doesn’t add value, cut it.

Here are some common examples of wordiness and how to fix them.

Use a paraphrasing tool

If you want to save time, you can make use of a paraphrasing tool . Within the tool you can select the “short” mode to rewrite your essay in less words. Just copy your text in the tool and within 1 click you’ll have shortened your essay.

If you’re significantly under the word count, you’re wasting the opportunity to show depth and authenticity in your essay. Admissions officers may see your short essay as a sign that you’re unable to write a detailed, insightful narrative about yourself.

Here are some strategies for expanding your essay.

Show detailed examples, and don’t tell generic stories

You should include detailed examples that can’t be replicated by another student. Use vivid imagery, the five senses, and specific objects to transport the reader into your story.

Reveal your feelings and insight

If your essay lacks vulnerability or self-reflection, share your feelings and the lessons you’ve learned.

Be creative with how you express your feelings; rather than simply writing “I’m happy,” use memorable images to help the reader clearly visualize your happiness. Similarly, for insight, include the follow-up actions from your lessons learned; instead of claiming “I became a hard worker,” explain what difficult tasks you accomplished as a result of what you learned.

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

Academic writing

• Writing process
• Transition words
• Passive voice
• Paraphrasing

 Communication

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

 Parts of speech

• Personal pronouns
• Conjunctions

Most college application portals specify a word count range for your essay, and you should stay within 10% of the upper limit to write a developed and thoughtful essay.

You should aim to stay under the specified word count limit to show you can follow directions and write concisely. However, don’t write too little, as it may seem like you are unwilling or unable to write a detailed and insightful narrative about yourself.

If no word count is specified, we advise keeping your essay between 400 and 600 words.

If you’re struggling to reach the word count for your college essay, add vivid personal stories or share your feelings and insight to give your essay more depth and authenticity.

If your college essay goes over the word count limit , cut any sentences with tangents or irrelevant details. Delete unnecessary words that clutter your essay.

You can speed up this process by shortening and smoothing your writing with a paraphrasing tool . After that, you can use the summarizer to shorten it even more.

There is no set number of paragraphs in a college admissions essay . College admissions essays can diverge from the traditional five-paragraph essay structure that you learned in English class. Just make sure to stay under the specified word count .

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Courault, K. (2023, June 01). How Long Should a College Essay Be? | Word Count Tips. Scribbr. Retrieved September 3, 2024, from https://www.scribbr.com/college-essay/college-essay-length/

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