An essay is a short written composition on a subject expressing personal ideas or opinions. It typically includes an introduction with a thesis statement, body paragraphs supporting the main ideas, and a conclusion summarizing the key points. There are several types of essays such as descriptive, narrative, argumentative, expository, persuasive, personal, informal, and formal essays. Descriptive essays use adjectives to describe objects or events, while narrative essays tell a story to prove a point. Argumentative essays support an argument with evidence, and persuasive essays try to convince the reader of one viewpoint over another.