a classification essay what should each body paragraph do

• Essay Guides
• Main Academic Essays

Classification Essay: A Quick Guide with Examples

• Speech Topics
• Basics of Essay Writing
• Essay Topics
• Other Essays
• Research Paper Topics
• Basics of Research Paper Writing
• Miscellaneous
• Chicago/ Turabian
• Data & Statistics
• Methodology
• Admission Writing Tips
• Admission Advice
• Other Guides
• Student Life
• Studying Tips
• Understanding Plagiarism
• Academic Writing Tips
• Basics of Dissertation & Thesis Writing

• Research Paper Guides
• Formatting Guides
• Basics of Research Process
• Admission Guides
• Dissertation & Thesis Guides

Table of contents

Use our free Readability checker

You may also like

A classification essay is a type of academic essay that categorizes a topic into distinct groups based on shared characteristics or criteria. The writer's purpose is to create a clear organization of information. Classification should be logical, making it easier for readers to remember the information being presented.

Let us guess: your professor asked you to write a classification essay. But they didn't explain how to even write one, did they? They often drop students like that as a part of self-learning. That's exactly why you're here! Writing a classification essay requires research. And making sure you've got enough information, you must double check what you've already gathered. Besides, classifying may sound simple, but it takes discipline and logical thinking. Putting thoughts into words and all that… What a task! But we heard a little rumor that those who continue reading would master classification papers. It's time for you to see if this rumor is true!  

But if you’re still looking for proficient help, our academic writing services got you covered. Our writers do excellent research before writing a paper and deliver high-quality results. We are also proud of our timely delivery of the papers.

Daniel Howard is an Essay Writing guru. He helps students create essays that will strike a chord with the readers.

Classification essay doesn’t want to hide its essence, considering its name. But the primary goal of this type of article is to classify. Now, what you want to rank is up to you or your professor. Your main goal is to select topics and later put them into categories. The primary purpose of this type of essay is to show your skills in categorisation and generalization. We can take food as a good and tasty example. For instance, apples and oranges belong to the fruit category, while cucumbers will definitely be vegetables. As for avocado, you have to do the research and classify this type of food. Nevertheless, you’ll definitely need to write one of those essays during your college. So to master academic and classification writing, keep reading!  

We will start by teaching you how to write a classification essay. In this case, preparation is our little saving grace. So before you begin the actual writing, typing, or scribbling, it’s a good idea to think about the overall essence of your article. For starters, here are several valuable tips worth remembering:

These several steps will be handy for writing a thesis and starting your introduction. Buy essay papers online once you want good results with as little time spent as possible.

Like with other articles, the classification essay thesis is one of the most vital parts of your work. A good thing worth keeping in mind is that your thesis is the last statement of your introduction. It also determines whether your audience will continue reading your article. Here are several things you should follow to write a good thesis:

If you can nail our list given above, congratulations, you’ve got yourself an outstanding thesis.

Creating a classification essay outline is one of the easiest ways to approach an excellent classification paper. It’s true that it requires a lot of research and remembering. You will not only have to write about a single subject but group topics into categories. In order to do it correctly and understandably for the reader, it’s best if you use an outline. First and foremost, your essay should follow a traditional five paragraph essay format structure. It should have a minimum of three paragraphs. But typically, professors prefer around five. So your introduction must initially include an introduction, several body paragraphs depending on the length of your article, and a conclusion. In your body paragraphs outline, it’s a good idea to describe the groups you will include in your article. So your first paragraph will group fruits according to their color, while the second one can use nutrition for a classification. This will help you to remember your points before writing.  

Classification essay introduction is very similar to any other introduction you have probably written. You should never forget that you are writing for an audience. Doesn’t really matter if your reader is your professor or some person online. The rules of good writing apply to any kind of paper. The first thing worth doing is introducing your overall concept. There is no need to give all the information at once. Just start with something more general and narrow it down later to a thesis we’ve talked about. Make sure that you also include the relevant information. Using our previous metaphor, if you’re talking about fruits, maybe mentioning vegetables will not be a good idea. Besides, staying on one topic will help you to write more clearly. And that’s our final requirement for your introduction.  

Classification essay's main body commonly has around 1-3 paragraphs. But don't forget to ask your professor about the length. The important thing to remember is that you are classifying items in your work. In order to achieve precise and successful organization, your body paragraphs must be concise. Each body paragraph should focus on a certain group. You're not making mashed potatoes. So stacking all of your ideas in one section would create a mess. Keep it simple in terms of structure:  

A simple and understandable organization will make your writing sharp. And your readers will definitely say thank you!

A classification essay conclusion is, just like always, crème de la crème of any article. At this point, your reader knows everything you were telling them. They know all your data, issues, and ideas. Thus, quickly summarizing what they’ve read in your body paragraphs will help a lot. But the last thing to do is organize your conclusion while leaving an impression. Now, their impressions can be different. However, your readers must think about your work for at least some time. So your conclusion must end with something intriguing like the possible future of your topic or piece of mind for the readers. Just don’t include any new information, and you’ll do fantastically!  

Even with our help, classification essay writing is challenging. So we prepared for you several good tips that will help you improve and ease your academic life. Check them out:  

With these steps, we can definitely say that you’re ready.

How could we leave you without classification essay samples? You’re right; we couldn’t. Check out this example. Keep in mind that our examples always have characteristics that we talked about. So you can read the sample and return back for this article or do some revision. It will help you a lot. What are you waiting for? You can find the example right here. Or simply buy essay for college to avoid any hard work this evening. 

Who knew that  writing a classification essay  wasn’t that hard? We did, and now you know that, too. You have everything it takes to create an excellent paper. You know that:  

FAQ about Classification Essays

1. what is the purpose of a classification essay.

The purpose of a classification essay is to organize and classify. In the beginning, you have several unique items. They indeed have some things in common. So your job is to identify in what categories they fit best. After doing the research and careful learning, you must put everything you have gathered into words. But still, keep in mind that the second purpose is to make your essay and classification clear to the reader.

2. How long is a classification essay?

There’s no right or wrong answer when it comes to classification essay length. Everything will depend on the guidelines. Usually, such articles are 3 to 5 paragraphs long. Their minimum is always an introduction, one body paragraph, and conclusion. However, professors definitely enjoy 5 paragraphs as a standard length. But you always need to remember that the essay should be long enough to provide necessary information for the reader. Or it must be short enough not to drag it out.

3. What is the difference between a division and classification essay?

Division and classification essays are only slightly different. The items you choose for classification essays must belong to strict and certain categories. They cannot overlap or belong to two different groups. On the other hand, division essays allow the subjects to move from one group to another. They might be divided into different groups or categories and thus overlap.

4. What are different types of classification?

There are several types of classification. Depending on the particular topic, you can choose a specific type that fits the best. Here’s what you can choose from:

• Select a type of organization (you can use tables, documents, or anything that will help you in organizing your work).
• Choose your categories for classification.
• Make sure that each category is distinct and clear.
• Include different examples for visualization.
• Summarize your work.
• Identify your main topic, objective, or goal of your essay.
• Above all, make readers understand what point you’re making and what your paper is gonna be about.
• Mention the categories you have chosen.
• Paragraph 1 — fruits organized by their color
• Paragraph 2 — fruits arranged by expert location
• Paragraph 3 — fruits ordered by size or shape
• Define the purpose of the article before you start writing.
• Avoid popular and often used topics.
• Write down a number of topics before picking one. (We have a list of classification essay topics at your disposal.)
• Choose a subject that will be personally interesting for you.
• Remember that you are also writing for someone else who might not know everything about your topic.
• Edit and proofread your work.
• Take a break from writing once in a while and come back with a fresh mind and new look.
• Don’t try writing about everything simultaneously. Instead, focus on one category and lead with it.
• Your thesis is the most essential part of the essay.
• The introduction must contain general information on the subject.
• Body paragraphs must be carefully organized.
• A conclusion should leave an impression without including new information.
• Spatial classification (location, place and so on).
• Chronological (you must take time and dates into consideration).
• Classification by attributes (qualitative).
• Classification by size (quantitative with numbers and statistics).

What Is a Classification Essay: Definition

How to write a classification essay, developing an effective classification essay thesis statement, classification essay outline, how to start a classification essay: introduction, body paragraphs of a classification essay, classification essay conclusion, classification essay writing: useful tips, classification essay examples, classification essay: bottom line.

How to Write a Classification Essay?

17 July, 2020

8 minutes read

Author:  Elizabeth Brown

Classification essay is comparable to painting creation - an artist works on a specific structure that holds the picture’s elements together and glues different layers to create a powerful visual effect. The same principle applies to a writing piece, in which the central role is devoted to getting things in order. In this article, we’ll discuss the main features and components of a great classification essay and share some tips and tricks on how to take your piece of writing to the next level.

Classification essay definition

We bet the first thing you want to know concerning the topic is what is a classification essay? This is the task which you’ll most likely deal with at some point in your student life. The essence of this assignment is related to categorization and generalization. Remember these two words because they form the true meaning of classification essay. Also, division and classification are those elements of this essay type which highly correlate and have equal importance for essay creation. Therefore, the main task here is to organize or sort things into categories.

How to write a classification essay 

Careful attention to planning marks the indication of quality in terms of classification essay. At this point, the main task is to learn how to structure the paper. The length of an article may vary, but the most frequently used “five paragraphs” method is typically applied for classification writing. What does this structure suggest? It has to do with a logical division of your essay into blocks and categories, every one of which should clarify a particular issue.

The first and one of the essential paragraphs is the introductory one. It’s an opening which illuminates the matter you’re going to discuss and the subject you’ll categorize. Besides, you can outline the purpose of your classification essay to readers to bring more clarity into the discussion. Answer the question of why you are categorizing the chosen items and what criteria you use for each of them. Then, you’ll need to close the introduction paragraph with a thesis. It will briefly sum up the objective of your classification and division essay, and identify the categories which you’ll be using for a paper.

The second part is the essay body. Here, a couple of paragraphs are applicable, preferably 3 and more. The most critical nuance you should remember while composing a body is that each paragraph will deal with a separate category. The best way to organize the central part of your division essay is to explain the criteria for each category and desirably, discuss strengths and weaknesses. More importantly, you should include examples that’ll back up your statements with a piece of evidence. Notably, there should be an equal amount of examples for every category to spread the evidence evenly. If your paragraphs in the main body are lengthy, you can also divide them into shorter ones to create a smooth transition between the blocks of text and improve readability.

The final paragraph of your classification essay is a conclusion. The closing statements will sum up the different categories highlighted in the body. Also, it’s advisable to restate each category and advise readers on the subject matter. However, if you choose to recommend this or that topic over the others, don’t forget to state the reason for your stance. This way, readers will take into account your well-grounded explanation, which is deprived of subjectivity, and make relevant conclusions for themselves.

Apart from the basic understanding of classification essay structure , you should also get prepared for the writing process. For many, implementing theory on practice is even more challenging than the stage of composing an essay. Nonetheless, with enough patience and endurance, this process is really not so bad after all. So, what steps do you need to make in order to prepare well for classification paper writing?

First things first, planning is everything when it comes to the assignment that implies classification. Without a clear and coherent plan, there’s no way you can write a good paper. Therefore, make sure that you have a robust scheme before writing your essay. For this, proceed with the following planning steps:

• Generate Ideas. Evidently, your essay won’t write itself. If your professor has not assigned you a specific topic, it’s time to do some brainstorming. Remember – you need to choose a group of people, things, or ideas that can be easily divided into categories and then compared.
• Choose Your Classification Method. Aim at one principle for classification for each category you describe. For example, if you write about people, you can categorize them by age, gender, appearance, or other factors. This will help you better structure your essay and make it look more organized in the eyes of readers.
• Create a Thesis Statement. As previously mentioned, the thesis statement is the element which closes the introduction of your classification essay. It should include such information as the subject matter, the categories, and the criteria used to classify each category. Besides, you can note down the purpose of your division into these categories.

Classification essay outline

The outline is a general description or plan that schematically displays the main points of your essay. The main point of an outline is to help you see the structure of your essay and use it as a useful guide for writing. Usually, a typical outline describes the essence of each point in one sentence. Also, bullet points are not uncommon, so you can use them to arrange a plan the way you feel is the most appropriate.

Classification essay topics

There is a plethora of themes and subjects for division classification essays to choose from, but most of them are hard to think of straight away. That’s why we’ve collected the list of the top used classification topics for you to facilitate the process of generating ideas or searching for ones elsewhere.

• The most popular devices students use nowadays
• Colors and their meaning in the paintings of Frida Kahlo
• The evolution of rock-music types
• Standard methods students use to prepare for exams
• Public speakers that have moved the world  
• Unique factors to determine a successful relationship  
• How to improve child-parent relationships
• Main motives to start a political career
• Learning techniques for college students
• Types of TV comedy shows
• Traveling destinations
• The main types of mobile applications
• Communication possibilities online
• Strategies for making decisions in business
• Leadership and leader types
• Conflicts at the job and ways to cope with them
• The motivation for doing sports
• Methods to reduce stress

No matter which theme you choose for your classification essay and what techniques you implement to make them elaborated, remember always to keep the structure in mind. The first step to writing this type of assignment is not just sitting and jotting down detached ideas, but planning out clear statements which can later be transmitted on paper. Hopefully, our advice will help you on the way to writing an excellent classification essay which your professor will mark with an A+ grade.

Problems with writing Your Classification Essay? Try our Online Essay Writer Service!

A life lesson in Romeo and Juliet taught by death

Due to human nature, we draw conclusions only when life gives us a lesson since the experience of others is not so effective and powerful. Therefore, when analyzing and sorting out common problems we face, we may trace a parallel with well-known book characters or real historical figures. Moreover, we often compare our situations with […]

Ethical Research Paper Topics

Writing a research paper on ethics is not an easy task, especially if you do not possess excellent writing skills and do not like to contemplate controversial questions. But an ethics course is obligatory in all higher education institutions, and students have to look for a way out and be creative. When you find an […]

Art Research Paper Topics

Students obtaining degrees in fine art and art & design programs most commonly need to write a paper on art topics. However, this subject is becoming more popular in educational institutions for expanding students’ horizons. Thus, both groups of receivers of education: those who are into arts and those who only get acquainted with art […]

How to Develop and Organize a Classification Essay

Basic Approaches to Drafting a Five-Paragraph Essay

• Writing Essays
• Writing Research Papers
• English Grammar
• Ph.D., Rhetoric and English, University of Georgia
• M.A., Modern English and American Literature, University of Leicester
• B.A., English, State University of New York

Classification is a method of developing an essay by arranging people, objects, or ideas with shared characteristics into particular classes or groups. After you have settled on a topic for a classification essay * and explored it through various prewriting strategies, you should be ready to attempt a first draft . Here is how to develop and organize a five-paragraph classification essay .

Introductory Paragraph

In your introduction , clearly identify your subject — in this case, the group you are classifying. If you have narrowed your subject in any way (for example, types of bad drivers, rock guitarists, or annoying moviegoers), make this clear from the start.

You may also want to provide some specific descriptive or informative details to attract the interest of your readers and suggest the purpose of the essay .

Finally, include a thesis sentence (usually at the end of the introduction) that briefly identifies the main types or approaches that you're about to examine. 

Intro Paragraph Example: Baseball Fans

Here's an example of a short but effective introductory paragraph to a classification essay:

It's a warm evening in July, and all across the country Americans are gathering to watch a game of professional baseball. Armed with hot dogs and cold drinks, they stroll to their seats, some in grand stadiums, others in cozy minor-league parks. But no matter where the game is played, you will find the same three types of baseball fan: the Party Rooter, the Sunshine Supporter, and the Diehard Fan.

Notice how this introduction creates certain expectations. The specific details provide a setting (a ballpark on "a warm evening in July") in which we expect to see the various fans described. In addition, the labels assigned to these fans (the Party Rooter , the Sunshine Supporter , and the Diehard Fan ) lead us to expect descriptions of each type in the order they're given. A good writer will go on to fulfill these expectations in the body of the essay.

Body Paragraphs

Begin each body paragraph with a topic sentence that identifies a particular type of approach. Then  illustrate each type with specific details.

Arrange your body paragraphs in whatever order strikes you as clear and logical — say, from the least effective approach to the most effective, or from the most common type to the least familiar (or the other way around). Just make sure that the order of your body paragraphs matches the arrangement promised in your thesis sentence.

Body Paragraphs Example: Types of Fans

Here, in the body of the essay on baseball fans, you can see that the writer has fulfilled the expectations set up in the introduction. (In each body paragraph, the topic sentence is in italics.)

The Party Rooter goes to games for the hot dogs, the gimmicks, the giveaways, and the companionship; he's not really that interested in the ballgame itself. The Party Rooter is the sort of fan who shows up on Buck-a-Brew Night, often with a gang of fellow partiers. He cracks jokes, hurls peanuts at the team mascot, applauds the exploding scoreboard, blasts an electronic horn whenever he pleases—and occasionally nudges a companion and asks, "Hey, who's winning?" The Party Rooter often wanders out of the park in the sixth or seventh inning to continue his celebrations in the car on the way home. The Sunshine Supporter, usually a more common type than the Party Rooter, goes to the park to cheer on a winning team and bask in its glory. When the home side is on a winning streak and still in contention for a playoff spot, the stadium will be packed with this sort of fan. As long as her team is winning, the Sunshine Supporter will be roaring at every play, waving her pennant and shouting out the names of her heroes. However, as the name implies, the Sunshine Supporter is a fickle fan, and her cheers quickly turn to boos when a hero strikes out or drops a line drive. She will stay around until the end of the game to celebrate a victory, but should her team fall a few runs behind, she's likely to slip out to the parking lot during the seventh-inning stretch.​ Diehard Fans are also strong supporters of the local team, but they go to the park to watch good baseball, not just to root for a winner.  More attentive to the game than other fans, Diehards will study the stance of a power hitter, note the finesse of a quick fielder, and anticipate the strategy of a pitcher who has fallen behind in the count. While the Party Rooter is chugging a beer or dropping wisecracks, Diehards may be filling in a scorecard or commenting on a player's RBI tally over the past few months. And when a Sunshine Supporter boos an opposing player for tagging out a local hero, Diehards may be quietly applauding the expert moves of this "enemy" infielder. No matter what the score is, Diehard Fans remain in their seats until the last batter is out, and they may still be talking about the game long after it's over.​

Comparisons Ensure Cohesion

Notice how the writer uses comparisons to ensure cohesion in the body of the essay. The topic sentence in both the second and third paragraphs refers to the preceding paragraph. Likewise, in the third body paragraph, the writer draws explicit contrasts between the Diehards and the other two types of baseball fans.

Such comparisons not only provide smooth transitions from one paragraph to the next but also reveal the sympathies of the writer. He begins with the type of fan he likes the least and ends with the one he most admires. We now expect the writer to justify his attitudes in the conclusion.

Concluding Paragraph

The concluding paragraph gives you an opportunity to draw together the various types and approaches you have been examining in the body of the essay. You may choose to offer a final brief comment on each one, summarizing its value or its limitations. Or you may want to recommend one approach over the others and explain why. In any case, make sure that your conclusion clearly emphasizes the purpose of your classification.

Concluding Paragraph: Only the Diehard Fans Remain

In the concluding paragraph to "Baseball Fans," consider whether the author has been successful in his effort to tie his observations together.

Professional baseball would have trouble surviving without all three types of fans. The Party Rooters provide much of the money that owners need to hire talented players. The Sunshine Supporters bring a stadium to life and help boost the morale of the home team. But only the Diehard Fans maintain their support all season long, year in and year out. By late September in most ballparks, enduring chilly winds, rain delays, and sometimes humiliating losses, only the Diehards remain.

Connecting the Conclusion to the Introduction

Notice how the writer hooks his conclusion back to the introduction by contrasting the chilly night in September with the warm evening in July. Connections such as this help to unify an essay and give it a sense of completeness.

As you develop and organize your draft , experiment with various strategies, but keep this basic format in mind: an introduction that identifies your subject and the different types of approaches; three (or more) body paragraphs that rely on specific details to describe or illustrate the types; and a conclusion that draws your points together and makes the overall purpose of the classification clear.

• Examples of Great Introductory Paragraphs
• How to Write a Good Descriptive Paragraph
• 100 Persuasive Essay Topics
• 50 Great Topics for a Process Analysis Essay
• Classification Paragraph, Essay, Speech, or Character Study: 50 Topics
• The Ultimate Guide to the 5-Paragraph Essay
• Understanding General-to-Specific Order in Composition
• How To Write an Essay
• What Is Expository Writing?
• What is Classification in Grammar?
• Definition and Examples of Body Paragraphs in Composition
• Understanding Organization in Composition and Speech
• How to Structure an Essay
• How to Write and Format an MBA Essay
• The Art of the Freshman Essay: Still Boring From Within?
• How to Write a Narrative Essay or Speech

Chapter 10 Rhetorical Modes

10.4 classification, learning objectives.

• Determine the purpose and structure of the classification essay.
• Understand how to write a classification essay.

The Purpose of Classification in Writing

The purpose of classification is to break down broad subjects into smaller, more manageable, more specific parts. We classify things in our daily lives all the time, often without even thinking about it. Cell phones, for example, have now become part of a broad category. They can be classified as feature phones, media phones, and smartphones.

Smaller categories, and the way in which these categories are created, help us make sense of the world. Keep both of these elements in mind when writing a classification essay.

Choose topics that you know well when writing classification essays. The more you know about a topic, the more you can break it into smaller, more interesting parts. Adding interest and insight will enhance your classification essays.

On a separate sheet of paper, break the following categories into smaller classifications.

• The United States
• Colleges and universities

The Structure of a Classification Essay

The classification essay opens with an introductory paragraph that introduces the broader topic. The thesis should then explain how that topic is divided into subgroups and why. Take the following introductory paragraph, for example:

When people think of New York, they often think of only New York City. But New York is actually a diverse state with a full range of activities to do, sights to see, and cultures to explore. In order to better understand the diversity of New York state, it is helpful to break it into these five separate regions: Long Island, New York City, Western New York, Central New York, and Northern New York.

The underlined thesis explains not only the category and subcategory but also the rationale for breaking it into those categories. Through this classification essay, the writer hopes to show his or her readers a different way of considering the state.

Each body paragraph of a classification essay is dedicated to fully illustrating each of the subcategories. In the previous example, then, each region of New York would have its own paragraph.

The conclusion should bring all the categories and subcategories back together again to show the reader the big picture. In the previous example, the conclusion might explain how the various sights and activities of each region of New York add to its diversity and complexity.

To avoid settling for an overly simplistic classification, make sure you break down any given topic at least three different ways. This will help you think outside the box and perhaps even learn something entirely new about a subject.

Using your classifications from Note 10.43 “Exercise 1”, write a brief paragraph explaining why you chose to organize each main category in the way that you did.

Writing a Classification Essay

Start with an engaging opening that will adequately introduce the general topic that you will be dividing into smaller subcategories. Your thesis should come at the end of your introduction. It should include the topic, your subtopics, and the reason you are choosing to break down the topic in the way that you are. Use the following classification thesis equation:

topic + subtopics + rationale for the subtopics = thesis.

The organizing strategy of a classification essay is dictated by the initial topic and the subsequent subtopics. Each body paragraph is dedicated to fully illustrating each of the subtopics. In a way, coming up with a strong topic pays double rewards in a classification essay. Not only do you have a good topic, but you also have a solid organizational structure within which to write.

Be sure you use strong details and explanations for each subcategory paragraph that help explain and support your thesis. Also, be sure to give examples to illustrate your points. Finally, write a conclusion that links all the subgroups together again. The conclusion should successfully wrap up your essay by connecting it to your topic initially discussed in the introduction. See Chapter 15 “Readings: Examples of Essays” to read a sample classification essay.

Building on Note 10.43 “Exercise 1” and Note 10.46 “Exercise 2”, write a five-paragraph classification essay about one of the four original topics. In your thesis, make sure to include the topic, subtopics, and rationale for your breakdown. And make sure that your essay is organized into paragraphs that each describes a subtopic.

Key Takeaways

• The purpose of classification is to break a subject into smaller, more manageable, more specific parts.
• Smaller subcategories help us make sense of the world, and the way in which these subcategories are created also helps us make sense of the world.
• A classification essay is organized by its subcategories.
• Successful Writing. Authored by : Anonymous. Provided by : Anonymous. Located at : http://2012books.lardbucket.org/books/successful-writing/ . License : CC BY-NC-SA: Attribution-NonCommercial-ShareAlike

Complete Guide on How to Write a Classification Essay

Table of Contents

Introduction to Classification Essays:

Imagine your closet. You’ve got shirts, pants, shoes, and a variety of accessories, all potentially scattered after a hectic week. When it’s time to tidy up, you start grouping items together—shirts with shirts pants with pants. In essence, you’re classifying your clothing to create order and make it easier to find what you need.

A classification essay functions similarly. It’s a form of academic writing where you categorize objects, ideas, or concepts into specific groups with a common denominator. This method serves to organize and discuss complex subjects in a clear, manageable way. The purpose? To offer insight, a fresh understanding, or an innovative perspective on the subject at hand. You’ll often find classification essays in academia, from high school all the way through college, in disciplines ranging from biology to social sciences to literature.

Choosing a Topic:

Selecting a topic for your classification essay is like choosing the perfect outfit for an occasion—it must be appropriate, and you should feel confident working with it. Begin with brainstorming sessions. Write down ideas that spark your interest or look at everyday objects and concepts from a new angle. Consider your audience and the scope of your assignment. Is your topic broad enough to find research but narrow enough to be covered within the confines of your essay?

Let’s say your interest is in sports. Instead of classifying sports in general, narrow it down to ‘Olympic sports’ or ‘team sports’. Remember, a good topic should not only pique your interest but also have sufficient dimensions for classification.

Research and Data Gathering:

A sturdy building needs a solid foundation, and so does a classification essay. Research is that foundation. Dive into books, credible websites, and scholarly articles to gather data about your chosen topic. Organize your findings using digital tools like spreadsheets or traditional note cards—whichever suits your style. Keep track of your sources for citations and ensure your data is relevant and up-to-date. This process will provide you with the raw materials to construct your categories.

Creating Categories:

With your research at hand, it’s time to start building—creating categories is like laying out the blueprints for your classification essay. Each category should have a clear basis for classification. For instance, if you’re classifying books, your categories could be based on genres such as fiction, non-fiction, and poetry.

When developing categories, aim for a clear and distinct separation between them. Overlapping categories can confuse readers and weaken your essay’s effectiveness. If some items don’t fit neatly, consider whether they are outliers or if your categories need adjustment. Perhaps you need an additional category, or maybe some items are too specific and need to be generalized. The goal is a balanced, well-structured essay where every item has its place, much like a well-organized closet.

In creating categories, remember to be fair and objective. Each category should be equally important and relevant to your topic. This ensures that your classification essay presents a well-rounded view of your subject matter, providing readers with a comprehensive understanding that is both enlightening and engaging.

As you continue on your journey of writing a classification essay, keep these foundational steps in mind. With a well-chosen topic, thorough research, and clearly defined categories, you’re well on your way to writing an essay that is as organized and functional as a well-kept wardrobe—and perhaps even more impressive.

Thesis Statement:

Crafting a thesis statement for a classification essay is like setting a guiding light for your readers. It should clearly state the topic the criterion of classification, and usually include the categories you plan to discuss. Think of it as a roadmap that indicates the direction of your essay and what the readers should expect. Here’s how to compose a potent thesis statement:

• Identify the subject of your classification.
• Determine the classification principle or criteria.
• List the categories you will discuss (usually, three to five is ideal for clarity and depth).

For example, if your essay classifies Olympic sports, your thesis statement might read: “Olympic sports can be categorized into endurance, precision, and team-based events, each demanding unique skills and offering different challenges for athletes.”

An outline is the skeleton of your essay. It organizes your thoughts and ensures that you address all necessary points. A classification essay outline might look something like this:

I. Introduction A. Hook: Start with an interesting fact or a compelling question. B. Background information: Briefly touch upon the significance of the topic. C. Thesis statement: Clearly state the topic, classification criteria, and categories.

II. Body A. Category 1 1. Description and examples 2. Analysis of features and importance B. Category 2 1. Description and examples 2. Analysis of features and importance C. Category 3 1. Description and examples 2. Analysis of features and importance

III. Conclusion A. Summary of categories and significance B. Restatement of the thesis in light of the discussed evidence C. Final thoughts: Offer insights or suggest implications.

Essay Structure:

A classification essay’s structure should be straightforward and logical.

Introduction : This section sets the tone for your essay. Start with a hook to grab attention, provide some background information, and then present your thesis statement. The introduction should be direct and inform the reader about the classification you will discuss.

Body : The body of your essay is divided into sections, each dedicated to a specific category. Begin each section with a topic sentence that outlines the main idea of the category. Then, elaborate with examples, details, and analysis. Ensure that each category is discussed thoroughly and in equal depth to maintain balance.

Conclusion : The conclusion wraps up your essay by summarizing the main points and categories. It restates the thesis in a new light, considering the evidence and discussion presented. Conclude with final thoughts that highlight the importance of the classification and leave the reader with something to ponder.

Writing Tips:

Here are some tailored writing tips for a classification essay:

Maintain Clarity : Use clear and concise language to ensure that your readers understand the categories and the principle of classification. Avoid technical jargon unless your audience is familiar with it.

Avoid Complexity : Keep your categories straightforward and mutually exclusive; this avoids confusion. Don’t overcomplicate the classification with too many categories or overly fine distinctions.

Equal Development : Give each category the same level of attention and detail. Unequal development can make some categories seem less important than others, which can mislead the reader about their significance.

Consistent Principle : Apply your classification principle systematically. Each category should be classified according to the same principle to maintain coherence.

Logical Progression : Organize your categories in a way that makes sense. This could be simple to complex, least important to most important, or any other progression that adds to the clarity and persuasiveness of your essay.

Transitions : Use transition words and phrases to connect your categories and ideas smoothly. This helps in maintaining the flow of the essay.

Revision and Proofreading:

Revision and proofreading are the polishing cloth that makes your essay shine, ensuring that your classification is presented in the clearest, most engaging manner possible. Here’s how to approach this crucial stage:

Take a Break : After writing your draft, step away from it for a while. This distance gives you fresh eyes when you return for revision.

Read Aloud : By reading your essay out loud, you may catch errors or awkward phrases that you might miss when reading silently.

Check for Structure : Ensure that your introduction clearly sets up the classification principle and categories, each body paragraph focuses on a single category, and the conclusion effectively summarizes the essay.

Look for Clarity : Each category should be distinctly defined with clear examples. Check if the transitions between paragraphs and categories are smooth.

Consistency : Verify that you are consistently applying the classification principle throughout the essay.

Focus on Language and Tone : The language should be academic and appropriate for your audience. Ensure that your essay maintains a consistent tone throughout.

Proofread for Grammar and Spelling : Check for common errors such as misplaced commas, sentence fragments, subject-verb agreement issues, and spelling mistakes.

Revision Checklist:

• Is the thesis statement clear, and does it outline the categories?
• Do the introduction and conclusion effectively bookend the essay?
• Are the categories logically organized and well developed?
• Are examples relevant and supportive of the categories?
• Is the essay free of grammar, spelling, and punctuation errors?
• Have you cited all your sources properly?

Effective Revision Tips:

• Use grammar and spell-check tools as a first filter, but don’t rely on them exclusively.
• If possible, have a peer or mentor review your essay—they might spot issues you’ve missed.
• Address one type of correction at a time; for instance, focus on structure first, then clarity, and finally grammar and spelling.

Conclusion:

Writing a classification essay is an exercise in organization, analysis, and clarity. By choosing a relevant and intriguing topic, conducting thorough research, creating distinct categories, and composing a strong thesis statement, you set a solid foundation for your essay. The structure of your essay should guide the reader through your classification with ease, while your writing style should be clear and engaging, free from unnecessary complexity. Remember to allocate ample time for revision and proofreading, treating it as an essential part of the essay-writing process.

Now equipped with these tools and insights, you are ready to embark on the rewarding task of crafting your classification essay. Embrace the process, and let your newfound knowledge steer you toward a well-organized, insightful, and polished piece of writing.

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

5.4 Classification

Learning objectives.

• Determine the purpose and structure of the classification essay.
• Understand how to write a classification essay.

The Purpose of Classification in Writing

The purpose of classification  is to break down broad subjects into smaller, more manageable, more specific parts. We classify things in our daily lives all the time, often without even thinking about it. Cell phones, for example, have now become part of a broad category. They can be classified as feature phones, media phones, and smartphones.

Smaller categories and the way in which these categories are created help us make sense of the world. Keep both of these elements in mind when writing a classification essay.

The more you know about a topic, the more you can break it into smaller, more interesting parts. Adding interest and insight will enhance your classification essays.

On a separate sheet of paper, break the following categories into smaller classifications.

• Colleges and universities

The Structure of a Classification Essay

The classification essay opens with an introductory paragraph that introduces the broader topic. The thesis should then explain how that topic is divided into subgroups and why. Take the following introductory paragraph, for example:

When people think of New York, they often think of only New York City. However, New York is actually a diverse state with a full range of activities to do, sights to see, and cultures to explore. In order to better understand the diversity of New York State, it is helpful to break it into these five separate regions: Long Island, New York City, Western New York, Central New York, and Northern New York.

The underlined thesis explains not only the category and subcategory but also the rationale for breaking it into those categories. Through this classification essay, the writer hopes to show his or her readers a different way of considering the state.

Each body paragraph of a classification essay is dedicated to fully illustrating each of the subcategories. In the previous example, then, each region of New York would have its own paragraph.

The conclusion should bring all the categories and subcategories back together again to show the reader the big picture. In the previous example, the conclusion might explain how the various sights and activities of each region of New York add to its diversity and complexity.

Using your classifications from Exercise 1 , write a brief paragraph explaining why you chose to organize each main category in the way that you did.

Writing a Classification Essay

Start with an engaging opening that will adequately introduce the general topic that you will be dividing into smaller subcategories. Your thesis should come at the end of your introduction. It should include the topic, your subtopics, and the reason you are choosing to break down the topic in the way that you are. Use the following classification thesis equation:

topic + subtopics + rationale for the subtopics = thesis.

The organizing strategy of a classification essay is dictated by the initial topic and the subsequent subtopics. Each body paragraph is dedicated to fully illustrating each of the subtopics. In a way, coming up with a strong topic pays double rewards in a classification essay. Not only do you have a good topic, but you also have a solid organizational structure within which to write.

Be sure you use strong details and explanations for each subcategory paragraph that help explain and support your thesis. Also, be sure to give examples to illustrate your points. Finally, write a conclusion that links all the subgroups together again. The conclusion should successfully wrap up your essay by connecting it to the topic initially discussed in the introduction. See Appendix B: Examples of Essays  to read a sample classification essay.

Building on Exercise 1 and Exercise 2 , write a five-paragraph classification essay about one of the four original topics. In your thesis, make sure to include the topic, subtopics, and rationale for your breakdown. Make sure that your essay is organized into paragraphs that each describe a subtopic.

Key Takeaways

• The purpose of classification is to break a subject into smaller, more manageable, more specific parts.
• Smaller subcategories help us make sense of the world, and the way in which these subcategories are created also helps us make sense of the world.
• A classification essay is organized by its subcategories.

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

Share This Book

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

10.4 Classification

Learning objectives.

• Determine the purpose and structure of the classification essay.
• Understand how to write a classification essay.

The Purpose of Classification in Writing

The purpose of classification is to break down broad subjects into smaller, more manageable, more specific parts. We classify things in our daily lives all the time, often without even thinking about it. Cell phones, for example, have now become part of a broad category. They can be classified as feature phones, media phones, and smartphones.

Smaller categories, and the way in which these categories are created, help us make sense of the world. Keep both of these elements in mind when writing a classification essay.

Choose topics that you know well when writing classification essays. The more you know about a topic, the more you can break it into smaller, more interesting parts. Adding interest and insight will enhance your classification essays.

On a separate sheet of paper, break the following categories into smaller classifications.

• The United States
• Colleges and universities

The Structure of a Classification Essay

The classification essay opens with an introductory paragraph that introduces the broader topic. The thesis should then explain how that topic is divided into subgroups and why. Take the following introductory paragraph, for example:

When people think of New York, they often think of only New York City. But New York is actually a diverse state with a full range of activities to do, sights to see, and cultures to explore. In order to better understand the diversity of New York state, it is helpful to break it into these five separate regions: Long Island, New York City, Western New York, Central New York, and Northern New York.

The underlined thesis explains not only the category and subcategory but also the rationale for breaking it into those categories. Through this classification essay, the writer hopes to show his or her readers a different way of considering the state.

Each body paragraph of a classification essay is dedicated to fully illustrating each of the subcategories. In the previous example, then, each region of New York would have its own paragraph.

The conclusion should bring all the categories and subcategories back together again to show the reader the big picture. In the previous example, the conclusion might explain how the various sights and activities of each region of New York add to its diversity and complexity.

To avoid settling for an overly simplistic classification, make sure you break down any given topic at least three different ways. This will help you think outside the box and perhaps even learn something entirely new about a subject.

Using your classifications from Note 10.43 “Exercise 1” , write a brief paragraph explaining why you chose to organize each main category in the way that you did.

Writing a Classification Essay

Start with an engaging opening that will adequately introduce the general topic that you will be dividing into smaller subcategories. Your thesis should come at the end of your introduction. It should include the topic, your subtopics, and the reason you are choosing to break down the topic in the way that you are. Use the following classification thesis equation:

topic + subtopics + rationale for the subtopics = thesis.

The organizing strategy of a classification essay is dictated by the initial topic and the subsequent subtopics. Each body paragraph is dedicated to fully illustrating each of the subtopics. In a way, coming up with a strong topic pays double rewards in a classification essay. Not only do you have a good topic, but you also have a solid organizational structure within which to write.

Be sure you use strong details and explanations for each subcategory paragraph that help explain and support your thesis. Also, be sure to give examples to illustrate your points. Finally, write a conclusion that links all the subgroups together again. The conclusion should successfully wrap up your essay by connecting it to your topic initially discussed in the introduction. See Chapter 15 “Readings: Examples of Essays” to read a sample classification essay.

Building on Note 10.43 “Exercise 1” and Note 10.46 “Exercise 2” , write a five-paragraph classification essay about one of the four original topics. In your thesis, make sure to include the topic, subtopics, and rationale for your breakdown. And make sure that your essay is organized into paragraphs that each describes a subtopic.

Key Takeaways

• The purpose of classification is to break a subject into smaller, more manageable, more specific parts.
• Smaller subcategories help us make sense of the world, and the way in which these subcategories are created also helps us make sense of the world.
• A classification essay is organized by its subcategories.

Writing for Success Copyright © 2015 by University of Minnesota Libraries Publishing is licensed under a Creative Commons Attribution-NonCommercial 4.0 International License , except where otherwise noted.

Share This Book

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

15.5 Classification Essay

Learning objective.

• Read an example of the classification rhetorical mode.

Types of Higher Education Programs

Today’s students have many choices when it comes to pursuing a degree: four-year programs, two-year programs, large or small classroom settings, and even daytime or evening classes. With all the different options to consider, potential students should learn about the different types of colleges so they can find a school that best fits their personality, budget, and educational goals.

One type of higher education program for students to consider is a liberal arts college. These schools tend to be small in size and offer a range of undergraduate degrees in subjects like English, history, psychology, and education. Students may choose a liberal arts college if they want a more intimate classroom setting rather than large lecture-style classes. Students may also consider a liberal arts college if they want to gain knowledge from a variety of disciplines, rather than focus on a single area of study. Many liberal arts schools are privately owned, and some have religious affiliations. Liberal arts schools can come with a hefty price tag, and their high cost presents an obstacle for students on a tight budget; moreover, while some students might appreciate a liberal arts school’s intimate atmosphere, others might encounter a lack of diversity in the student body. Still, students seeking a well-rounded education in the humanities will find liberal arts colleges to be one option.

Universities, another type of higher education program, offer both undergraduate and graduate degrees. Usually universities are larger than colleges and can accommodate tens of thousands of students in many different majors and areas of study. A large student body means that class sizes are often larger, and some classes may be taught by graduate students rather than professors. Students will feel at home at a university if they want a focused academic program and state-of-the-art research facilities. While some universities are private, many are public, which means they receive funding from the government, so tuition is more affordable and some even offer discounted in-state tuition for state residents. Also, universities attract many international students, so those looking for a variety of campus cultural groups and clubs will appreciate a greater sense of diversity among the student body. Universities can be overwhelming for some, but they are the right fit for students who seek research opportunities and academic studies, especially in the fields of mathematics and science.

Community college is a type of higher education program popular with students on a limited budget who want to take college courses but may not know what they want to major in. Most schools offer degrees after two years of study, usually an associate’s degree that prepares students to enter the work force; many students choose to study at a community college for two years and then transfer to a four-year college to complete their undergraduate degree. Like liberal arts schools, classes are small and allow instructors to pay more attention to their students. Community college allows students to live at home rather than in a dormitory, which also keeps costs down. While some young people might not like the idea of living at home for school, many adults choose to attend community college so they can advance their education while working and living with their families.

Online universities are another type of higher education program that are gaining popularity as technology improves. These schools offer many of the same degree programs as traditional liberal arts colleges and universities. Unlike traditional programs, which require students to attend classes and lectures, online universities offer greater academic flexibility and are a great option for students wishing to pursue a degree while still working full time. At online universities, students access course materials, such as video lectures and assessments, remotely using a personal computer and are able to speed up or slow down their progress to complete their degree at their own pace. Students may attend classes in the comfort of their own home or a local library, but students hoping for the social community of higher education might not enjoy this aspect of higher education.

With so many colleges and universities to choose from, it may be difficult for a student to narrow down his or her selection, but once a student knows what he or she is looking for, the process may become much easier. It is very important for students to learn about the different types of higher education programs available before making their selections.

Online Classification Essay Alternatives

Amy Tan describes relationship with her heritage, her mother, and her languages in Mother Tongue

• http://theessayexperiencefall2013.qwriting.qc.cuny.edu/files/2013/09/Mother-Tongue-by-Amy-Tan.pdf

Writing for Success Copyright © 2015 by University of Minnesota is licensed under a Creative Commons Attribution-NonCommercial-ShareAlike 4.0 International License , except where otherwise noted.

• Our Writers
• How to Order
• Assignment Writing Service
• Report Writing Service
• Buy Coursework
• Dissertation Writing Service
• Research Paper Writing Service
• All Essay Services

Classification Essay

A Beginner’s Guide to Classification Essay + Examples, Topics, & Tips

10 min read

People also read

Classification Essay Outline - A Step By Step Guide

A List of 270+ Classification Essay Topics for Your Next Assignment

Have you ever tried organizing your wardrobe, and separating clothes by color or style to make your mornings smoother? Well, imagine doing the same with your thoughts and ideas.

This is what a classification essay does. It offers a way to understand a topic or idea by categorizing and classifying it.

This type of essay is assigned to evaluate students’ critical thinking skills and their ability to define and categorize things on a specific basis. 

In this guide, we will learn how to write a classification essay step by step. Plus, you will also get to read some good essay examples and interesting topics to write about. 

Let’s read on!

• 1. What is a Classification Essay?
• 2. How to Write a Classification Essay?
• 3. Classification Essay Examples 
• 4. Classification Essay Topics
• 5. Tips for Writing an Effective Classification Essay

What is a Classification Essay?

A classification essay can be defined as an essay that aims to arrange its subjects in categories based on their characteristics. In other words, it's about grouping things together that share common traits.

For example, imagine you're at a library, and each book is a unique idea. The classification essay is your way of creating distinct shelves and arranging those books in an orderly fashion. It is a mixture of expository and analytical essays, as it seeks to establish, discuss, and analyze a subject’s properties and characteristics. 

Moreover, it is also related to definition essays. Things are defined by their characteristics and categories to which they belong, and so the boundaries between a classification and definition essays are often blurred.

How to Write a Classification Essay?

Here are the steps you need to follow to write an excellent classification essay.

Following are the steps that should be taken to start an impressive classification essay:

Step 1: Choose a Topic

The first crucial step is selecting a topic that provides an opportunity for useful classification. Whether it's types of movies, learning styles, or modes of transportation, your topic sets the stage for a well-organized exploration.

Here's how to navigate this crucial first step:

• Breadth and Relevance: Select for a topic that is broad enough to offer multiple categories but specific enough to maintain focus. For instance, instead of "sports," consider "types of outdoor recreational activities."
• Consider Your Audience: Think about who will be reading your essay. Tailor your topic to their interests and knowledge level. A topic that resonates with your audience ensures that your classifications have a meaningful impact.
• Room for Exploration: Look for a topic with room for exploration. A good classification essay not only categorizes but also highlights nuances within each category. This adds depth to your writing and keeps your readers engaged.

Step 2: Conduct Research 

Now that you've chosen a compelling topic, it's time to delve into the world of research. Gather information to ensure you have a comprehensive understanding of the categories you plan to explore. With good research, you will have solid foundations for your classifications.

Here's how to gather the necessary information to enrich your classification essay:

• Consult Reliable Sources: Start by consulting reputable sources such as books, academic journals, and credible websites. The information you gather should be accurate and up-to-date.
• Diversify Your Sources: Get a well-rounded understanding by exploring a variety of sources. The more perspectives you study, the more comprehensive your classifications will be.
• Take Detailed Notes: As you conduct your research, take detailed notes on relevant information, examples, and any noteworthy details. This will help in outlining and drafting your essay later.
• Stay Organized: Keep your research organized. A systematic approach will save you time when you start outlining your essay.

Step 3: Brainstorm Ideas About Your Subject

To start writing a classification essay, it is important to first decide on a clear and specific criteria for classification. With credible information in hand, let your creativity flow. 

Jot down all the possible categories related to your chosen topic. This brainstorming phase is about exploring various angles and finding the most meaningful ways to categorize your subject matter.

This essay’s purpose is to define and discriminate between subjects, so make sure that the categories are well-defined and clear. 

Step 4: Develop a Thesis Statement

A thesis statement establishes the writer’s stance on the topic and their central argument. It is important to draft a strong thesis statement for an effective and persuasive classification essay. 

Once you’ve researched and established your categories, it's time to distill your focus into a concise thesis statement. Here’s what to keep in mind:

• Your thesis should clearly state the main categories you will explore in your essay. Avoid vague or overly broad statements. The reader should have a precise understanding of what to expect.
• The thesis statement is the central idea around which your entire essay revolves. It should convey the main point or purpose of your classification. 
• It should also provide a roadmap, indicating the organization of your upcoming arguments.

Step 5: Draft an Outline

Now that you have a well-crafted thesis statement, it's time to organize your thoughts and create a roadmap for your classification essay. A classification essay outline should include these points:

Step 6: Write Your First Draft

Once you have the necessary information and an organized plan, it is time to start writing your classification essay. To draft an effective and flawless essay, follow the writing steps given below:

• Write an Essay Introduction

The introduction is the first part of the essay. In this part, you need to catch the reader’s attention and introduce them to your topic. To make your introduction appealing,

• Start with a catchy hook statement. A hook statement is the opening line of the introductory paragraph that attempts to draw the reader’s attention. 
• Provide sufficient background and context for your topic.
• Close your introduction with a strong thesis statement that highlights your central point. 
• Draft the Body Paragraphs

The body section will contain three or more paragraphs depending on your arguments. The body paragraphs follow and justify the thesis statement made earlier in the introduction. Here’s how to write your body paragraphs:

• Start each body paragraph with a topic sentence that presents the main point of that paragraph.
• Provide examples, arguments, and relevant information in each paragraph to establish your argument. 
• Provide a detailed analysis of your subject to justify your categorizations.
• Connect body paragraphs to each other through transition words and phrases. This is important for maintaining a logical flow.
• Write a Strong Conclusion

The conclusion is the last paragraph, where you put together all the arguments made in the body paragraphs. Follow these tips to write a good conclusion:

• Summarize the main categories without introducing new information.
• Reiterate the significance of your classifications and their impact on understanding the topic.
• End with a memorable closing statement that leaves a lasting impression.

Step 7: Revise, Edit, & Improve Your Draft

Congratulations on completing your first draft! However, your work is not done just yet. Your first draft could be full of mistakes and weaknesses, so you need to elevate it through the revision, editing, and improvement process. Here’s what you should do to ensure that your final draft is perfect:

• Review the Overall Structure: Ensure that your introduction sets the stage effectively, each body paragraph is coherent, and the conclusion ties everything together without introducing new information.
• Check for Clarity and Consistency: See that your language is clear and your ideas are presented logically. Check for consistency in tone and style throughout.
• Refine Thesis Statement: Revisit your thesis statement. Does it accurately reflect the content of your essay? Make adjustments if needed to ensure it aligns with the final draft.
• Trim Unnecessary Details: Trim any redundant or unnecessary details. Keep your writing concise and focused on the defining characteristics of each category.
• Proofread for Errors: Thoroughly proofread your essay for grammatical, spelling, and punctuation errors. A polished essay enhances your credibility as a writer.
• Get Feedback: Consider seeking feedback from peers, professors, or writing professionals. Fresh perspectives can identify areas for improvement that you might have overlooked.
• Final Polish: Give your essay a final polish. Ensure that it aligns with your original vision and effectively communicates your ideas.

Classification Essay Examples 

Before starting the writing process, it is better to look at some of the classification essay examples. This way, you will get a better understanding of how these essays are written. 

Here are some classification essay examples to help you get started.

Classification Essay Sample

Division and Classification Essay Example

Exemplification and Classification Essay Example

Types of Friends Classification Essay

Classification Essay on Relationships

Classification Essay Topics

Choosing the right topic is the cornerstone of creating a captivating classification essay. Here's a short but diverse list of classification essay ideas to spark your imagination.

• Types of Social Media Users
• Genres of Music
• Learning Styles
• Forms of Government
• Types of Movie Endings
• Modes of Transportation
• Gaming Genres
• Personality Types in a Workplace
• Human Responses to Stress
• Various Kinds of Study Habits

Need more ideas? Head to our classification essay topics blog and get a list of interesting ideas to choose from!

Tips for Writing an Effective Classification Essay

Mastering the art of classification essays requires more than just following a set of steps. Consider these tips to enhance the quality and impact of your classification essays:

• Choose a Niche Topic: Opt for a topic that allows for meaningful categorization. A focused and specific subject ensures a more in-depth exploration of categories.
• Provide Clear Criteria: Clearly define the criteria used to categorize items. Whether it's characteristics, functions, or behaviors, explicit criteria add depth and clarity to your classifications.
• Ensure Balanced Categories: Strive for balance in the depth and coverage of each category. Avoid spending disproportionate time on one category, as it can disrupt the overall equilibrium of your essay.
• Use Consistent Characteristics: Maintain consistency in the characteristics you use to define each category. This ensures a coherent and logical progression throughout your essay.
• Think About Your Audience: Consider your audience's interests and knowledge level. Tailor your classifications to resonate with your readers, making the essay more engaging and relevant to them.
• Include Vivid Examples: Illustrate each category with vivid and relevant examples. Concrete examples provide a clearer understanding and make your classifications more compelling.
• Stay Objective: Maintain objectivity in your classifications. Avoid biases and ensure that your categories are based on observable and verifiable characteristics.
• Read Widely: Expose yourself to a variety of classification essays. Knowing other points of views can provide inspiration, insights, and a deeper understanding of effective categorization.

In conclusion,

A classification essay is a unique and interesting kind of writing with a few special requirements. Having read its definition and writing steps above, you now know what they are: It requires you to categorize your subject based on its features and argue for its validity. 

Following the steps and tips above will allow you to craft an A-worthy classification essay. The key to success comes down to pre-writing preparation and meticulous editing and revisions. Start early, plan your essay, figure out the categories, write, and rewrite until you’re satisfied.

Still need expert help? No worries! We fully understand your writing challenges. 

At MyPerfectWords.com, you can get assistance from professional writers for any type of essay, regardless of your topic. Our experienced and expert writers write amazing essays for you according to your needs and requirements.

Simply request ' write my essay online ' and get the assistance you require! 

Write Essay Within 60 Seconds!

Caleb S. has been providing writing services for over five years and has a Masters degree from Oxford University. He is an expert in his craft and takes great pride in helping students achieve their academic goals. Caleb is a dedicated professional who always puts his clients first.

Paper Due? Why Suffer? That’s our Job!

Keep reading

Macdonald DeWitt Library at SUNY Ulster

Eng 101 oer: classification.

• Reading to Write
• Why We Write
• Rhetorical Context
• Brainstorming
• Proofreading & Editing
• Paragraph Development
• Thesis Statements
• Introductions
• Conclusions
• Transitions & Phrases
• Peer Reviews
• Exemplification
• Classification
• Cause/Effect
• Grammar Resources

Learning Objectives

• Determine the purpose and structure of the classification essay.
• Understand how to write a classification essay.

The Purpose of Dividing & Classifying

The purpose of  classification  is to break down broad subjects into smaller, more manageable, more specific parts. We classify things in our daily lives all the time, often without even thinking about it. Cell phones, for example, have now become part of a broad category. They can be classified as feature phones, media phones, and smartphones.

Smaller categories, and the way in which these categories are created, help us make sense of the world. Keep both of these elements in mind when writing a classification essay.

The Structure of a Division/Classification Essay

The classification essay opens with an introductory paragraph that introduces the broader topic. The thesis should then explain how that topic is divided into subgroups and why. Take the following introductory paragraph, for example:

When people think of New York, they often think of only New York City. But New York is

actually a diverse state with a full range of activities to do, sights to see, and cultures to

explore.  In order to better understand the diversity of New York state, it is helpful to

break it into these five separate regions: Long Island, New York City, Western New York,

Central New York, and Northern New York.

The thesis explains not only the category and subcategory but also the rationale for breaking it into those categories. Through this classification essay, the writer hopes to show his or her readers a different way of considering the state.

Each body paragraph of a classification essay is dedicated to fully illustrating each of the subcategories. In the previous example, then, each region of New York would have its own paragraph.

The conclusion should bring all the categories and subcategories back together again to show the reader the big picture. In the previous example, the conclusion might explain how the various sights and activities of each region of New York add to its diversity and complexity.

Writing a Division/Classification Essay

Start with an engaging opening that will adequately introduce the general topic that you will be dividing into smaller subcategories. Your thesis should come at the end of your introduction. It should include the topic, your subtopics, and the reason you are choosing to break down the topic in the way that you are. Use the following classification thesis equation:

topic + subtopics + rationale for the subtopics = thesis.

The organizing strategy of a classification essay is dictated by the initial topic and the subsequent subtopics. Each body paragraph is dedicated to fully illustrating each of the subtopics. In a way, coming up with a strong topic pays double rewards in a classification essay. Not only do you have a good topic, but you also have a solid organizational structure within which to write.

Be sure you use strong details and explanations for each subcategory paragraph that help explain and support your thesis. Also, be sure to give examples to illustrate your points. Finally, write a conclusion that links all the subgroups together again. The conclusion should successfully wrap up your essay by connecting it to your topic initially discussed in the introduction. 

Classification Essays

Amy Tan describes relationship with her heritage, her mother, and her languages in  Mother Tongue :

• http://www.scribd.com/doc/13297165/Mother-Tongue-By-Amy-Tan-I-Am-Not-A
• http://learning.swc.hccs.edu/members/donna.gordon/sum-2010-engl-1301-5-wk-crn-33454/1301-reading-block-crn-33454/Tan_Mother%20Tongue.pdf
• http://teachers.sduhsd.k12.ca.us/mcunningham/grapes/mother%20tounge.pdf

Jonathan Koppell discusses anonymity, your name, and how the Internet has changed in  On the Internet, There’s No Place to Hide :

• http://www.newamerica.net/publications/articles/2000/on_the_internet_theres_no_place_to_hide

Student Sample Essay

Types of Higher Education Programs

Today’s students have many choices when it comes to pursuing a degree: four-year programs, two-year programs, large or small classroom settings, and even daytime or evening classes. With all the different options to consider, potential students should learn about the different types of colleges so they can find a school that best fits their personality, budget, and educational goals.

One type of higher education program for students to consider is a liberal arts college. These schools tend to be small in size and offer a range of undergraduate degrees in subjects like English, history, psychology, and education. Students may choose a liberal arts college if they want a more intimate classroom setting rather than large lecture-style classes. Students may also consider a liberal arts college if they want to gain knowledge from a variety of disciplines, rather than focus on a single area of study. Many liberal arts schools are privately owned, and some have religious affiliations. Liberal arts schools can come with a hefty price tag, and their high cost presents an obstacle for students on a tight budget; moreover, while some students might appreciate a liberal arts school’s intimate atmosphere, others might encounter a lack of diversity in the student body. Still, students seeking a well-rounded education in the humanities will find liberal arts colleges to be one option.

Universities, another type of higher education program, offer both undergraduate and graduate degrees. Usually universities are larger than colleges and can accommodate tens of thousands of students in many different majors and areas of study. A large student body means that class sizes are often larger, and some classes may be taught by graduate students rather than professors. Students will feel at home at a university if they want a focused academic program and state-of-the-art research facilities. While some universities are private, many are public, which means they receive funding from the government, so tuition is more affordable and some even offer discounted in-state tuition for state residents. Also, universities attract many international students, so those looking for a variety of campus cultural groups and clubs will appreciate a greater sense of diversity among the student body. Universities can be overwhelming for some, but they are the right fit for students who seek research opportunities and academic studies, especially in the fields of mathematics and science.

Community college is a type of higher education program popular with students on a limited budget who want to take college courses but may not know what they want to major in. Most schools offer degrees after two years of study, usually an associate’s degree that prepares students to enter the work force; many students choose to study at a community college for two years and then transfer to a four-year college to complete their undergraduate degree. Like liberal arts schools, classes are small and allow instructors to pay more attention to their students. Community college allows students to live at home rather than in a dormitory, which also keeps costs down. While some young people might not like the idea of living at home for school, many adults choose to attend community college so they can advance their education while working and living with their families.

Online universities are another type of higher education program that are gaining popularity as technology improves. These schools offer many of the same degree programs as traditional liberal arts colleges and universities. Unlike traditional programs, which require students to attend classes and lectures, online universities offer greater academic flexibility and are a great option for students wishing to pursue a degree while still working full time. At online universities, students access course materials, such as video lectures and assessments, remotely using a personal computer and are able to speed up or slow down their progress to complete their degree at their own pace. Students may attend classes in the comfort of their own home or a local library, but students hoping for the social community of higher education might not enjoy this aspect of higher education.

With so many colleges and universities to choose from, it may be difficult for a student to narrow down his or her selection, but once a student knows what he or she is looking for, the process may become much easier. It is very important for students to learn about the different types of higher education programs available before making their selections.

Key Takeaways

• The purpose of classification is to break a subject into smaller, more manageable, more specific parts.
• Smaller subcategories help us make sense of the world, and the way in which these subcategories are created also helps us make sense of the world.
• A classification essay is organized by its subcategories.

This is a derivative of  WRITING FOR SUCCESS  by a publisher who has requested that they and the original author not receive attribution, originally released and is used under CC BY-NC-SA. This work, unless otherwise expressly stated, is licensed under a  Creative Commons Attribution-NonCommercial-ShareAlike 4.0 International License .

• << Previous: Definition
• Next: Comparison >>
• Last Updated: Sep 7, 2023 10:19 AM
• URL: https://libguides.sunyulster.edu/eng101oer

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

53 Classification

[Author removed at request of original publisher]

Learning Objectives

• Determine the purpose and structure of the classification essay.
• Understand how to write a classification essay.

The Purpose of Classification in Writing

The purpose of classification is to break down broad subjects into smaller, more manageable, more specific parts. We classify things in our daily lives all the time, often without even thinking about it. Cell phones, for example, have now become part of a broad category. They can be classified as feature phones, media phones, and smartphones.

Smaller categories, and the way in which these categories are created, help us make sense of the world. Keep both of these elements in mind when writing a classification essay.

Choose topics that you know well when writing classification essays. The more you know about a topic, the more you can break it into smaller, more interesting parts. Adding interest and insight will enhance your classification essays.

On a separate sheet of paper, break the following categories into smaller classifications.

• The United States
• Colleges and universities

The Structure of a Classification Essay

The classification essay opens with an introductory paragraph that introduces the broader topic. The thesis should then explain how that topic is divided into subgroups and why. Take the following introductory paragraph, for example:

When people think of New York, they often think of only New York City. But New York is actually a diverse state with a full range of activities to do, sights to see, and cultures to explore. In order to better understand the diversity of New York state, it is helpful to break it into these five separate regions: Long Island, New York City, Western New York, Central New York, and Northern New York.

The underlined thesis explains not only the category and subcategory but also the rationale for breaking it into those categories. Through this classification essay, the writer hopes to show his or her readers a different way of considering the state.

Each body paragraph of a classification essay is dedicated to fully illustrating each of the subcategories. In the previous example, then, each region of New York would have its own paragraph.

The conclusion should bring all the categories and subcategories back together again to show the reader the big picture. In the previous example, the conclusion might explain how the various sights and activities of each region of New York add to its diversity and complexity.

To avoid settling for an overly simplistic classification, make sure you break down any given topic at least three different ways. This will help you think outside the box and perhaps even learn something entirely new about a subject.

Using your classifications from Note 10.43 “Exercise 1” , write a brief paragraph explaining why you chose to organize each main category in the way that you did.

Writing a Classification Essay

Start with an engaging opening that will adequately introduce the general topic that you will be dividing into smaller subcategories. Your thesis should come at the end of your introduction. It should include the topic, your subtopics, and the reason you are choosing to break down the topic in the way that you are. Use the following classification thesis equation:

topic + subtopics + rationale for the subtopics = thesis.

The organizing strategy of a classification essay is dictated by the initial topic and the subsequent subtopics. Each body paragraph is dedicated to fully illustrating each of the subtopics. In a way, coming up with a strong topic pays double rewards in a classification essay. Not only do you have a good topic, but you also have a solid organizational structure within which to write.

Be sure you use strong details and explanations for each subcategory paragraph that help explain and support your thesis. Also, be sure to give examples to illustrate your points. Finally, write a conclusion that links all the subgroups together again. The conclusion should successfully wrap up your essay by connecting it to your topic initially discussed in the introduction. See Chapter 15 “Readings: Examples of Essays” to read a sample classification essay.

Building on Note 10.43 “Exercise 1” and Note 10.46 “Exercise 2” , write a five-paragraph classification essay about one of the four original topics. In your thesis, make sure to include the topic, subtopics, and rationale for your breakdown. And make sure that your essay is organized into paragraphs that each describes a subtopic.

Key Takeaways

• The purpose of classification is to break a subject into smaller, more manageable, more specific parts.
• Smaller subcategories help us make sense of the world, and the way in which these subcategories are created also helps us make sense of the world.
• A classification essay is organized by its subcategories.

Classification Copyright © 2020 by [Author removed at request of original publisher] is licensed under a Creative Commons Attribution-NonCommercial 4.0 International License , except where otherwise noted.

Share This Book

Classification Essay

Classification Essay - Outline, Topics & Writing Tips

Published on: Jan 2, 2022

Last updated on: Jan 31, 2024

People also read

Classification Essay Outline - A Step-by-Step Guide

Share this article

On This Page On This Page -->

Most high school and college students are often assigned to write a classification essay at some point in their academic life. Teachers assign this task to evaluate the student’s skills to categorize things. It can be a daunting task, but with the help of basic techniques, you can make the writing process easier.

Here are a few tips and guidelines that you can use to structure your classification essays properly. You have to plan your essay and figure out the categories beforehand to complete this assignment easily.

Paper Due? Why Suffer? That's our Job!

Classification Essay Definition

A classification essay is a formal piece of writing used to evaluate your categorizing and generalization skills. It mainly aims to arrange various subjects and objects with similar characteristics.

For this, a writer needs to categorize and classify things into different groups and mention examples that fit into each. Similarly, you are also required to follow a single categorizing approach throughout the content. However, it is up to you to decide on criteria for classification to explain the reasoning and logic.

The entire process of classification essay writing is not very different from any other type of essay. Like other academic papers, the principles of essay writing remain the same, but it requires extensive research and analysis.

How to Start a Classification Essay?

Here are some important steps that you should follow to start a classification essay.

Most professors assign you a specific topic to write your classification essay. If you are not assigned, brainstorm different ideas and come up with an engaging topic. Decide on a group of things that can be logically divided into groups. Also, come up with something that has definitive categories for comparison.

After choosing a topic, decide on classification criteria. Think about all the possible categories in which the topic can split up. Some topic ideas have several options; thus, you will have to determine the exact angle to approach the essay’s theme. Furthermore, make sure that none of the categories is overlapping.

A  thesis statement  is the main argument of the writer on the topic. It is the stance that supports your entire essay, including the main body. Therefore, it is important to draft a strong statement. Also, use examples and evidence to make your essay effective and persuasive.

The next step is to conduct thorough research to gather interesting information for the audience. However, make sure to collect data from credible and authentic sources. It will further strengthen the content of your essay by making it more convincing and logical.

After collecting relevant information, you are now required to structure and organize it properly. Thus, write down the main ideas and present a logical connection between them. Eliminate unnecessary ideas if there are any.

Check out the following template outline that you can use for your division and classification essay.

• Introductory paragraph - (A hook statement and thesis)
• Body paragraph 1/Category number 1
• Body paragraph 2/Category number 2
• Body paragraph 3/Category number 3

How to Write a Classification Essay?

After planning out the basic structure, start the writing process. Follow the below-given steps to write a perfect classification essay.

The introduction is the first and the most important section of the classification essay. Here, you have to identify the subject and mention the objects to be categorized.

State an interesting hook statement to make your introduction appealing. Such as strong opening line will grab the reader’s attention towards the essay. After this, provide the purpose of the essay and explain the reason for categorizing the items.

Lastly, write a strong thesis statement to highlight the subject matter in the discussion. Develop this statement early during the writing process as it will help the writer stay in the right direction.

The body section of the classification essay comprises three or more paragraphs depending on the categories. All the paragraph provides relevant information, examples, and evidence to justify the thesis statement. Also, start each paragraph with a topic sentence.

The right approach is to discuss the most important category in the last paragraph. Use classification essay transition words to ensure that the data flows logically from one paragraph to another.

The following are some common transition phrases. Apply them each time you arrange things into groups and provide examples related to each class.

• The 1st kind, the 2nd kind, the 3rd kind
• The 1st group, the 2nd group, the 3rd group
• The 1st category, the 2nd category, the 3rd category

It is the last section of a classification essay where you put together all the categories mentioned in the main body. Here, a writer will summarize all the central arguments and restate the thesis statement.

Also, mention the various types and approaches that you have examined in your classification essay. Recommend the particular one over the others, depending on the subject matter. However, make sure to emphasize why you have come to that conclusion.

The first draft of your classification essay is full of mistakes, but you can fix it up by editing and revising. For this, read your essay twice or thrice and ensure that it includes all the important points highlighted in the outline.

Eliminate all the language, punctuation, and spelling mistakes to give it a professional look. Similarly, get rid of all the unnecessary and overly complex words and phrases before the final submission.

Classification Essay Examples

Have a look at the following classification essay examples to understand writing a good one in no time.

Classification Essay Sample

Classification Essay Example About Students

Classification Essay About Food

Classification Essay Topics

Not all ideas can be good topics. Here we have mentioned some of the best topics for a classification essay, divided into several categories. It will help you choose a unique one for your essay.

• Olympic games
• Different genres of modern music
• Rare species of animals
• Types of dogs
• Ways to treat obesity
• Types of human relationships
• Common phobias
• Psychological disorders
• Movies about memory loss
• Meals that may lead to diabetes

Tips for Writing a Classification Essay

Keep in mind the expert tips given below while writing a good classification essay. It will make your essay stand out and draw the reader’s attention.

• It is better to avoid choosing complex topics because extremely narrow or broad topics are hard to deal with.
• Conduct extensive research to gather factual data for the essay.
• Make sure to define and describe all the categories.
• Provide authentic evidence and examples for each classified group. Make sure it offers a typical representation of the class.
• Use credible sources of information.
• Draft a perfect outline to organize the data properly.
• Use a comparison and contrast technique to point out various similarities and differences between each category.
• Proofread and revise your essay to make it perfect.

These are a few guidelines that will help you write an A-worthy classification essay. Planning out the assignment early and figuring out the categories is the key to success.

However, if you are still unsure about your research or writing skills, get quality help from our classification essay writing service now!

Our classification essay writers will help you submit a comprehensive piece of paper that will get you the grade you deserve. 

Similarly, utilize our essay writing service for original and plagiarism-free content within the given deadline.

Contact us now at CollegeEssay.org and get a classification essay at affordable rates.

You can also get quality help from our AI writing tool if you're in need of a rapid solution to your essay worries!

Caleb S. (Literature, Marketing)

Caleb S. has extensive experience in writing and holds a Masters from Oxford University. He takes great satisfaction in helping students exceed their academic goals. Caleb always puts the needs of his clients first and is dedicated to providing quality service.

Paper Due? Why Suffer? That’s our Job!

Keep reading

Legal & Policies

• Privacy Policy
• Cookies Policy
• Terms of Use
• Refunds & Cancellations
• Our Writers
• Success Stories
• Our Guarantees
• Affiliate Program
• Referral Program
• AI Essay Writer

Disclaimer: All client orders are completed by our team of highly qualified human writers. The essays and papers provided by us are not to be used for submission but rather as learning models only.

Verify originality of an essay

Get ideas for your paper

Find top study documents

How to Write a Classification Essay: Complete Guide and Popular Topics

Updated 13 Jun 2024

Before delving deep into this theme, it is important to examine these words separately from each other and get a definitive picture of what an essay is, then we would be able to get the importance behind a good classification essay. A paper can be defined as a short piece of written material on any topic or subject; however, in today’s context, the length is no more than the major determinant. Based on what is needed, you can create a short essays or not. Different subjects require another word counts for papers.

What is a Classification Essay? A Brief Overview

Classification is described as the art of arranging together a number of objects that share similar characteristics or source. A classification paper, therefore, deals with the arrangement of several topics or themes in an paper setting, all of them sharing common properties.

This type of writing isn’t popular by demand; most people prefer to go for essay types that they are accustomed to. Students are generally more accustomed to writing reflective, narrative, imaginative and argumentative papers than a classification-related work. But simply by reading classification essay examples , you will see that this type of writing is not as confusing as it might look.

The basic duty of any classification essay is to help organize thoughts and other things into categories where any suggestions or events that are headed in the same direction are placed in one category. This type of writing is also good for giving educative and informative samples of suitable topics that can be used for this paper type.

Why is it essential to create an excellent classification paper? The foremost reason would be to pass the right message across to people who would read and analyse it. The next reason would be for your own personal benefit. If this essay is a top determinant in the grade you will get for a subject, you would want to put it in your best efforts. Also, you would want to avoid getting pointed out for poor calibre work.

Now we would move into explaining the classification essay outline.

Read also: How to Write a Process Essay : Excellent Guide with 10+ Examples

Designing the Perfect Outline For Your Classification Essay

The classification essay outline has the advantage of staying almost similar even as the idea behind essay changes. Having a good outline is critical to the success of any paper – it serves as an informative guide to you and helps you plan your 500 words essay and paragraphs. 

A brilliant outline is usually made up of three solid sections: introduction, body paragraph, and conclusion. It’s imperative you understand what each section entails; this will help you avoid unnecessary editing at the end of a long writing process.

Introduction  

This where you open the floor for the average reader to grasp a basic concept of what your classification essay is about. Here you provide certain pointers that skim through the whole piece without revealing more than needed. The introductory part is designed to get the reader’s attention, get them interested in wanting to do an analysis through the rest of the text willingly. If you are a college student or in your finishing years putting together results of a long-time research project, chances are that your teachers or course co-ordinators will be your audience.

What can be included in an classification writing introduction? For a start, a definition or two would be ideal to set the atmosphere for the rest of the write-up. Some prefer to include their definitions in the first paragraph of the body. But you have to remember that this choice depends more on the type of writing and your preference. There is no specific template for penning the perfect essay.

Main Text 

This is where you get your writing juices flowing. One thing most people do not realize is that it’s quite easy to diverge from the central theme; hence it’s important to focus on the relevant information. 

It consists of paragraphs, each structured to give a critical discourse of a fact or your opinion on a subject. In a classification paper, the aim of the text would be, without doubt, to lay out various categories related to the theme of discussion, and probably explain why some objects are a better fit for one division or the other. Your text should be able to explain fully all points that may have been raised. 

If you compare systems that classify things, for example, you might want to highlight differences between previous and modern systems and add some words on the influence both systems had on whatever they were used to classify.

Conclusion 

A classification essay conclusion must be as concise as the introduction. Apart from wrapping up the whole text, the purpose of a conclusion is to identify any new lessons that may have been learnt in classifying things. A concluding paragraph is no place for a fresh set of ideas and arguments; the paper is supposed to end there - and end there.

Don't risk a zero grade!

Hire our experts to proofread, polish, and check your work for accuracy. Just $7/page. Zero AI.

How to Write a Classification Essay: Detailed Plan

Having considered parts in this type of write-up, we will now talk on how to write a classification essay. Let’s look at it from three sides.

Choosing a topic for a classification writing

When you are choosing a theme, there are a few things you can do. One of them is to find out what you personally like. It’s easier for people to organize concepts centered around what interests them than writing on themes they have no interest or connection to.

Another thing you can do is choose from themes that are known to have quality coverage, i.e., you can always find secondary data related to whatever you need to classify. This becomes a big help if you are a high school student asked to do such academic writing.

Subjects to write on

It is essential to choose a subject matter that can be of social relevance, something that is relatable for everyone. It will also help if the subject you choose to write on contains new information that contributes to improving professional knowledge. This is especially good when you are writing about methods that classify words related to complex and volatile study fields like Medicine, Law, Engineering, and so on.

Need more writing assistance?

Connect with our top writers and receive a Classification essay sample crafted to your needs.

Building up the main body of the text: things to remember

• Try not to jump around an idea. This applies to all papers you will ever create. Always go straight to the main idea you are trying to elaborate on. Be sure you do your maximum best to describe different points, and always explain your stand when any part of the write-up requires your input.
• Clearly, indicate where your paragraphs begin and end your classification paper. Do not put your words in an endless stream. It would confuse people, even those who have gone far in school study.
• Check your grammar and punctuation. This should be as clear as day.
• Keep to the number of words. If instructions specify a certain amount of characters (letters, numbers et al.) be cautious to observe the count. Precision is always rewarded.
• Do not use words that question your confidence regarding classifications, namely ‘maybe, probably,’ ‘I guess,’ etc. They are a big turn-off.

Read also: Useful Tips On How To Write A Short Essay

Classification Essay Topics

There are a number of topics one can choose from. We would examine some of the best from three categories.

Classification Essay Topics about Music

• All About Genres: Types and Origins
• Exploring Types of Rock Music
• The Music Eras: Categories and Durations
• A Cross-Section on Different Types of Rap Music
• A Comparison Between Subdivisions of Slow-Paced Music
• An Assessment of Different Subdivisions of Fast-Paced Music
• Understanding Harmony: Classifying Parts
• Classifications of Music Based on Dynamics and Tone
• Different Styles of Music: From Classics to Jazz
• Identifying Generations of Music Composers

Topics of Classification Paper about Movies

• An Expose on Movie Genres in the 21st Century.
• An Overview of Work Behind Scenes – Different Stages of Film Production.
• Understanding the Evolution of Screen Cameras Over the Years.
• An Introduction to the Concept of Copyright: Types and Uses.
• Anime vs. Animated Movies: Understanding Types of Graphics Used for Screen Effects.
• Roles of Different Members of the Production Crew in Final Touches of a Film.
• In the Book and on the Screen: Why Some Book Storylines are Altered for the Big Screen.
• Classification of Roles in a Film – and why the Lead Actor isn’t Always Acting the Hard Part.
• Getting Ideas: Different Ways of Producing on a Movie Set.
• Categories of Film Tricks Used in Movies.

Classification Essay Topics on Sports

• Types of Ball Games in Different Countries.
• Subdivisions of the Olympic Games.
• Understanding Volleyball: Types of Serves.
• The Origin of Different Swimming Styles.
• Working by Lines – Categories of Referees.
• A Day In the Duration of Various Types of Track Events.
• Between Shotput and Javelin: An Example of Unequal Strengths.
• Rules of the Tennis Court: Serving Styles and Origins.
• Between Karate and Boxing: Other Related but Unknown Sporting Practices.
• Types of Services That Function During a Sports Event.

Summarize What is Written in Your Classification Paper

Like every other paper, classification writing can pose difficulties especially for students who do not often get enough time to focus, find information and compile needed data. But this can be taken care of thanks to Edubirdie, a respectable writing service that has been in the business for a long time and we know who can pay someone to write my paper . Our team of scholarship essay writing service experts handle a large selection of process, definition, scholarship papers and are competent enough to help you out with a classification essay as well. Should you ever need help, give us a buzz.

Was this helpful?

Thanks for your feedback.

Written by Michael Turner

Michael is a true book wizard in our team. Working as a writer and editor for EduBirdie, he focuses on various book and movie reviews by studying them with the purpose of leaving a lasting impression on his audience. Using his experience and fascination with history and educational books, Michael is your pathway towards discovering something new and learning in a different way. His posts are always unique and inspiring.

Related Blog Posts

Diversity essay: effective tips for expressing ideas.

In today's interconnected and rapidly evolving world, the importance of diversity in all its forms cannot be overstated. From classrooms to workpla...

Learn how to write a deductive essay that makes you proud!

Learning how to write a deductive essay may sound like a challenging task. Yet, things become much easier when you master the definition and the ob...

Learn how to write an extended essay correctly

This helpful article will provide all the necessary information to show you how to write an extended essay without mistakes. You will learn about a...

Join our 150K of happy users

• Get original papers written according to your instructions
• Save time for what matters most

• I nfographics
• Show AWL words
• Subscribe to newsletter
• What is academic writing?
• Academic Style
• What is the writing process?
• Understanding the title
• Brainstorming
• Researching
• First draft
• Proofreading
• Report writing
• Compare & contrast
• Cause & effect
• Problem-solution

Classification

• Essay structure
• Introduction
• Literature review
• Book review
• Research proposal
• Thesis/dissertation
• What is cohesion?
• Cohesion vs coherence
• Transition signals
• What are references?
• In-text citations
• Reference sections
• Reporting verbs
• Band descriptors

Show AWL words on this page.

Levels 1-5:     grey  Levels 6-10:   orange 

Show sorted lists of these words.

Any words you don't know? Look them up in the website's built-in dictionary .

Choose a dictionary .  Wordnet  OPTED  both

To classify means to divide something into groups or categories. The classification is normally made according to one or more criteria. It is often necessary in academic English to classify something you are writing about in order to make comparisons and draw conclusions. This could be done in one or two sentences, a paragraph, or even a whole essay. This page gives information about how to classify , language for classification , and essay structure (if the classification is used for a whole essay).

How to classify

When classifying something, it is important to understand what criterion (or criteria , if there is more than one) that you are using to divide the thing into different groups. There may be more than one way to classify, and you will need to choose the criteria which make most sense for what you are writing about. For example, if you were to classify students in a university class, they could be divided according to any of the following criteria:

• nationality
• favourite colour

Classifying according to gender would divide the students into 'male' and 'female'. Dividing according to age is more complex, as you may need to specify age ranges, for example 'between 18 and 21', 'between 22 and 25', etc.

Language for classifying

The language used for classifying depends on whether you are describing the criterion or the result of applying the criterion. Compare the following examples.

• The students in the class can be classified according to gender. [ criterion ]
• The students in the class can be classified into male and female. [ result ]

The phrase 'according to' shows that you are talking about the criterion, while the word 'into' shows you are talking about the result. The following are further examples of language for classification using a criterion.

• The students in the class may be classified on the basis of gender. [ criterion ]
• The students in the class can be classified depending on gender. [ criterion ]

The following are further examples of language for classification showing the result.

• Economics consists of two kinds: micro-economics and macro-economics. [ result ]
• Economics consists of micro-economics and macro-economics. [ result ]
• Economics comprises micro-economics and macro-economics. [ result ]

It may be necessary to classify when there is no name for the criterion you are using. For example, you may wish to divide a group into Asian and non-Asian students, but there is no category 'Asian-ness' which you can use as your criterion. In this case, you can use the construction 'according to whether... or not' to define the criterion. The language for stating the result is the same. See the following examples:

• The students in the class can be classified according to whether they are Asian or not . [ criterion ]
• The students in the class can be classified into Asian and non-Asian. [ result ]

Finally, it may be necessary to sub-divide, that is, to divide something which has already been divided. In this case, use 'sub-divided' for the second classification, and 'further sub-divided' for the next. See this example:

• The students in the class can be classified according to gender. They can be sub-divided according to whether they are Asian or not . They can be further sub-divided according to age, into those who are below 25 years of age and those who are above 25.

According to this classification, we will end up with eight groups: Asian males under 25, Asian males over 25, non-Asian males under 25, etc. This is summarised in the following diagram.

There are two main ways to structure a classification essay. The first way, shown in the diagram below (left), is when a single criterion (or single way of categorising) is used, resulting in distinct categories. The purpose of this type of structure is to show understanding of the categories, or justify the method of classification, by giving the categories and describing their characteristics. Sometimes the categories may be sub-divided into sub-categories, which may be listed or described. For the single-criterion classification essay, the criterion (if there is one) should be given in the general background of the introduction, and the thesis statement should list the categories which will be described in the main body. Each body paragraph will usually describe one category in detail.

The second way, shown in the diagram below (right), is when multiple criteria are used to classify the topic in different ways. The purpose of this type of classification is to show understanding of how the topic can be categorised, or justify the criteria for classification, by giving the criteria and showing examples of groupings using these criteria. For the multiple-criteria classification essay, the thesis statement should list the criteria which are described in the main body. Each body paragraph will usually describe the criteria and the groups it leads to. Depending on the level of detail, the examples might be broken down into separate paragraphs.

The two types of structure are shown in the diagram below.

GET FREE EBOOK

Like the website? Try the books. Enter your email to receive a free sample from Academic Writing Genres .

Below is a checklist for classification. Use it to check your own writing, or get a peer (another student) to help you.

Next section

Find out how to structure an essay in the next section.

Previous section

Go back to the previous section about definitions .

• Definitions

Author: Sheldon Smith    ‖    Last modified: 31 October 2019.

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

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

Cause & effect essays consider the reasons (or causes) for something, then discuss the results (or effects).

Discussion essays require you to examine both sides of a situation and to conclude by saying which side you favour.

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

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

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

Essay Papers Writing Online

Master the art of crafting a well-structured and engaging classification essay to captivate your readers effortlessly.

Mastering the art of organizing and presenting information is an essential skill in academic writing. And what better way to demonstrate this proficiency than by crafting a well-crafted categorization composition?

In this comprehensive exposé, we will dive deep into the art and science of creating a classification essay that is both informative and captivating. By harnessing the power of categorization, you will learn how to draw connections, identify patterns, and present your ideas in a structured, logical manner.

Throughout this enlightening journey, we will explore various techniques, guidelines, and practical tips that will enable you to transform a jumble of concepts into a cohesive and meaningful piece of writing. So, whether you are a seasoned writer or just starting your academic journey, join us on this quest to master the art of crafting a remarkable classification essay.

The Importance of Understanding Classification Essays

Comprehending the significance of classification essays is crucial for students seeking to enhance their writing abilities and develop a comprehensive understanding of various topics. These types of essays enable individuals to categorize different objects, ideas, or concepts based on specific criteria, facilitating a deeper analysis and organization of information.

By delving into the realm of classification essays, students can sharpen their critical thinking skills and learn to identify distinct similarities and differences between various elements. This form of writing requires individuals to break down complex subjects into manageable groups, facilitating the readers’ comprehension and providing a structured framework for organizing information.

• Enhances analytical thinking
• Promotes effective organization
• Facilitates understanding of complex subjects
• Enables clear and concise communication

Furthermore, by mastering the art of classification essays, students can communicate their thoughts and arguments more clearly and concisely. This form of writing encourages individuals to present their ideas in a logical and systematic manner, ensuring that readers can follow their reasoning effortlessly.

Having a strong grasp of classification essays also enables individuals to navigate through a vast amount of information more effectively. Whether conducting research or analyzing various topics, the ability to classify information into distinct groups allows individuals to process and retain the information more efficiently, improving overall comprehension.

In conclusion, understanding the significance of classification essays is paramount for students striving to enhance their writing skills and develop a structured approach to organizing information. Mastering this form of writing not only promotes critical thinking and effective communication but also empowers individuals to navigate complex subjects with ease.

What is a Classification Essay?

A Classification Essay is a type of academic writing that organizes and categorizes different items or subjects into specific groups or classes. It aims to classify the given objects based on common characteristics, features, or qualities they possess. By using classification, the essay writer can effectively analyze and categorize a vast array of objects, ideas, or concepts, helping to better understand and explain their relationships and differences. The main goal of a classification essay is to provide a comprehensive and structured overview of a particular topic or subject by dividing it into smaller subcategories and presenting them in a logical and organized manner.

Why is it Important to Learn How to Write a Classification Essay?

Understanding the art of crafting a classification essay is an essential skill to have in the world of academic writing. This type of essay allows you to categorize and organize various subjects or ideas into distinct groups based on their shared characteristics. By learning how to write a classification essay, you can develop your critical thinking, analytical, and writing skills.

One of the main reasons why learning how to write a classification essay is important is because it encourages you to think critically and analyze information in a systematic manner. Through this process, you are required to examine different objects or concepts and identify their common traits. This analytical thinking helps you to develop a deeper understanding of the subjects you are studying and enhances your overall cognitive abilities.

Furthermore, mastering the art of classification essay writing enables you to effectively organize information. This skill is particularly valuable in academic and professional settings where clear and logical organization is highly regarded. Being able to categorize subjects or ideas into specific groups allows you to present information in a structured and coherent manner, making it easier for your readers or audience to comprehend and follow your arguments.

In addition, learning how to write a classification essay can improve your writing skills. This essay requires you to clearly define categories and provide thorough descriptions for each group. By practicing this type of writing, you can enhance your ability to express your thoughts and ideas in a concise and well-structured manner. It also encourages you to use evidence and examples to support your claims, thereby strengthening your overall persuasive writing skills.

Lastly, being proficient in writing a classification essay can open doors to various academic and professional opportunities. Many disciplines, such as literature, history, psychology, and marketing, frequently utilize classification essays as a means of organizing and analyzing information. By mastering this skill, you can excel in your academic pursuits and demonstrate your expertise in your chosen field.

In conclusion, learning how to write a classification essay is an important skill that can greatly benefit your academic and professional development. It enhances your critical thinking, analytical, and writing abilities, while also allowing you to effectively organize information and present your ideas in a structured manner. By mastering this art, you can open doors to various opportunities and establish yourself as a knowledgeable and capable individual.

Steps to Writing a Successful Classification Essay

Classification essays are a form of academic writing that require you to categorize and group different objects, ideas, or topics based on specific criteria. To write a successful classification essay, you need to follow a series of steps that will help you effectively organize your thoughts and present your ideas to the reader in a clear and logical manner.

The first step in writing a successful classification essay is to carefully choose a topic that is broad enough to provide you with ample material to classify, but also narrow enough that you can explore it in depth. Consider selecting a topic that you are passionate about or have prior knowledge of, as this will make the writing process more enjoyable and informed.

Once you have selected your topic, the next step is to develop a clear thesis statement that encapsulates the main focus of your essay. Your thesis statement should highlight the categories you will use to classify your subject matter and provide a brief overview of how you will categorize them. This will serve as a roadmap for your essay and guide your readers through your classification process.

After establishing your thesis statement, you can proceed to creating an outline for your essay. Your outline should include an introduction, body paragraphs, and a conclusion. Each body paragraph should focus on a different category and provide supporting evidence and examples to justify the classification. Ensure that your body paragraphs are well-organized and flow logically from one category to another.

Once you have completed your outline, you can start writing your essay. Begin with a captivating introduction that hooks the reader’s attention and provides background information on your topic. In the body paragraphs, present each category separately and explain its significance, providing relevant examples and evidence to support your claims.

In the conclusion, summarize the main points discussed in the essay and restate your thesis statement in a concise manner. Avoid introducing new information in the conclusion and strive to leave your readers with a lasting impression of your classification process.

Finally, revise and edit your essay to ensure that it is free from grammatical errors, typos, and inconsistencies. Pay attention to the clarity and coherence of your writing, and make any necessary revisions to improve the overall structure and flow of your essay. Additionally, proofread your essay to check for any spelling or punctuation mistakes that may distract the reader.

By following these steps, you can easily write a successful classification essay that effectively categorizes and organizes your subject matter, providing a clear and insightful analysis to your readers.

Choosing a Topic for your Classification Essay

When embarking on the journey of writing a classification essay, the first and most crucial step is selecting a topic. A well-chosen topic can make the writing process more enjoyable and ensure that your essay is engaging and informative. In this section, we will explore some strategies for finding the perfect topic for your classification essay.

One approach to choosing a topic is to think about your personal interests and hobbies. What are the things that you are passionate about? Whether it’s sports, books, movies, or fashion, selecting a topic that aligns with your interests will not only make the research process more enjoyable but also allow you to bring a personal perspective to your writing.

Another strategy is to consider current trends and popular topics. What are the buzzworthy subjects in your field of study or society? By focusing on popular topics, you can ensure that your essay will be relevant and appealing to readers. Additionally, researching and discussing current trends can demonstrate your ability to stay up-to-date with the latest developments in your chosen field.

Furthermore, it can be beneficial to choose a topic that has a clear and logical structure. Classification essays organize information into distinct categories based on shared characteristics. Therefore, selecting a topic that naturally lends itself to classification can help ensure a well-structured and coherent essay. For example, if you are writing about different types of pets, you can categorize them based on size, temperament, or maintenance requirements.

In conclusion, selecting the right topic is a crucial step in writing a successful classification essay. By considering your personal interests, popular trends, and the potential for logical categorization, you can find a topic that will captivate your audience and allow you to showcase your knowledge and expertise.

Organizing your Classification Essay

Arranging the contents of your classification essay is like sorting a collection of items into different groups based on their similarities or differences. This process requires careful planning and organization to ensure that your essay flows smoothly and effectively communicates your main points.

Introduction: Begin your classification essay with a captivating introduction that grabs the reader’s attention and provides a brief overview of what will be discussed in the essay. You can start with a relevant anecdote, a thought-provoking question, or a statistical fact to engage your readers and set the tone for the rest of the essay.

Thesis statement: After introducing the topic, present a clear thesis statement that states the categories you will be using to classify the items. Your thesis statement should give the reader a preview of the main categories and how they will be organized in the essay.

Body paragraphs: The body of your essay should consist of several paragraphs, each addressing a specific category. Start each paragraph with a topic sentence that introduces the category and provides a transition from the previous paragraph. Within each paragraph, use relevant examples and evidence to support your classification. Be consistent in your classification criteria and provide clear explanations for each category.

Transitions: To ensure a smooth flow between paragraphs and categories, use transition words and phrases. These words and phrases help the reader understand the relationship between different categories and how they contribute to the overall classification. Examples of transition words and phrases include “firstly,” “in addition,” “on the other hand,” “another category,” etc.

Conclusion: Conclude your essay by summarizing the main points discussed in the body paragraphs and restating the significance of your classification. Reinforce the thesis statement and leave the reader with a final thought or reflection related to the topic.

Proofreading and editing: After organizing your essay, take the time to proofread and edit your work. Check for grammatical errors, punctuation mistakes, and other areas of improvement. It is also a good idea to read your essay aloud to ensure that the flow and coherence are maintained.

In summary, organizing your classification essay involves carefully arranging the contents in a logical and coherent manner. By following the steps outlined above, you can create an essay that effectively classifies the items and engages the reader.

Related Post

How to master the art of writing expository essays and captivate your audience, convenient and reliable source to purchase college essays online, step-by-step guide to crafting a powerful literary analysis essay, unlock success with a comprehensive business research paper example guide, unlock your writing potential with writers college – transform your passion into profession, “unlocking the secrets of academic success – navigating the world of research papers in college”, master the art of sociological expression – elevate your writing skills in sociology.

Writing a Classification Essay

• Books & Ebooks
• What is an Classification Essay?
• Choosing a Topic
• How to Navigate Galileo

The Writing Process

• Copyright & Fair Use/Plagiarism

How to Write a Classification Essay

Additional Links & Examples

Classification & Division Essay

TIP Sheet for Writing A Classification Paper

The Purpose of Classification in Writing

4.6: Classification Essays

Classification Essays: Moving from Paragraph to Essay

10.4 Classification

Classification and Analysis

TCC Writing Center: Classification and Division Guidelines

Classification Division Essay: See It In Practice

Classification Essay

Helpful WGTC Libguides

All About Plagiarism 

APA Formatting

ENGL 2130: American Literature

GALILEO DATABASE

MLA Formatting

Structure of an Classification Essay

A Classification Essay Outline 

A classification essays follow a typical essay organization with an introduction paragraph, body paragraphs, and a conclusion paragraph.

I. Introduction Paragraph:

1. Introduces the subject area. The  Hook : Catch the attention of your audience (quote, question, interesting statement)

2. Breaks the subject area into categories and explains why you chose this type of classification.

Thesis statement:  How to write a thesis statement

The thesis statement:

• describes the group of people or things you intend to classify
• describes the purpose of the classification 
• and lists the categories you have developed

II. Body Paragraph 1: First subcategory

Describes the first subcategory and its Characteristics and give examples

III. Body Paragraph 2: Second subcategory

Describes the second subcategory and its  Characteristics and  give examples

IV. Body Paragraph 3: Third subcategory

Describes the third subcategory and its  Characteristics and  give examples

Other body paragraphs can be added based on how many categories you have

V. Conclusion

Writing an Classification Essay

There are some key words and phrases which are typical in writing a classification essay such as: this type of, several kinds of, is categorized by, classified according to, can be divided into, in this category, the first kind, the second kind, the third kind, the first type, the second type, the third type etc...

Writing an Introduction Paragraph

When writing an introduction paragraph for a classification essay your first sentence is known as the hook because it caches the attention of your readers. This sentence is then followed by connecting information that explains the subject area and how its broken down into subcategories. You also want to explain why you are categorizing the subject into these different subcategories. The Introduction sentence also includes your thesis statement and explains the purpose of the essay. The thesis is included towards the end of the paragraph. 

Use the following classification thesis equation:

topic + subtopics + rationale for the subtopics = thesis.

Writing the Body Paragraphs

The body paragraphs of a classification essay are dedicated to fully explaining each one of the subcategories you have chosen for your topic. Each subcategory will be broken down into its own paragraph. The paragraphs should illustrate in detail and give examples of the category. Use information from sources you found during your research.

Writing the Conclusion

The conclusion should successfully wrap up your essay by reconnecting the reader to the initial topics and proves your thesis

• << Previous: How to Navigate Galileo
• Next: Copyright & Fair Use/Plagiarism >>
• Last Updated: Jun 26, 2024 5:29 PM
• URL: https://wiregrass.libguides.com/c.php?g=1386265

How to Write a Classification Essay

Short classification essay video guide.

Need more tips and pieces of advice on classification essay writing? You can watch the video on our YouTube channel to get many ideas on topics, hacks on outlining, samples, etc. Simply follow the link below.

Let’s have a closer look at what is a classification essay, and why you need to write it, aside from it being a mandatory assignment. While mastering a classification essay, you will also develop categorization and generalization skills, broaden your understanding of the topic, and improve your writing, and learn how to develop a working thesis statement.

Don’t you just enjoy when the name of a paper is straightforward, and the instructions are clear? If yes, then writing a classification essay is for students like you and the guide prepared by our essay writing service will be helpful for sure.

What’s so special about a classification essay?

Let us proceed with formulating the classification essay definition. A classification essay is a type of formal writing that requires the organization of subjects into different categories or groups using the same classification principle. It is vital to add examples for each group and category. The classification must have a purpose explained by the author and a correctly formulated thesis statement. This type of academic writing develops the generalization and categorization skills of the author, establishing logical connections between the items and evaluating their shared characteristics.

When preparing for writing a classification essay, you should focus on a particular broad subject and examine it for the elements that make it up. For instance, when you think about music, you may classify it by genre (rock, pop, jazz, electronic), mood (aggressive, fun, wistful, relaxing, intense), tempo (moderate, dynamic, lyric), etc. In this way, the primary objective of writing a proper classification essay is developing categorization skills and the ability to classify items based on a single criterion.

Once we’ve dealt with theory, it’s time to move to the practical part. Before we start talking about the writing process, here are some general tips to consider while you write a classification essay:

• First of all, identify the categories. After the topic for your future essay is selected, divide it into groups and establish logical connections between elements. Try to be as thorough as you can, as leaving out an important category is entirely inappropriate if you want to write classification essay that will be appreciated by your teacher.
• Remember that it’s crucial to sort by a single standard. Once you have determined the categories, ascertain whether they fit the single organizing criteria set. Organizing criteria are how you categorize the items into groups. Do not let an inappropriate principle destroy the logic of the paper. For instance, if your topic is water sports and classification principle is tourist benefit, you should not use any other unifying principle and write about extreme or dangerous sports.
• Make sure you provide each group with examples equally for an objective and non-biased classification essay . Remember that you should write the same number of examples for each group. However, the biggest and the most critical group is usually reserved for last, so it might need a bit more detailed elaboration.

Learn more on the classification essay outline

One of the significant stages of creating any essay is structuring. That is why we will start answering the question, “how to write a classification essay?” with a detailed explanation on how to write a classification essay outline while making it detailed and proficient. Detailed outlining will let you to create a first draft and then polish it on the next stage of writing a good classification essay.

How to write a classification essay INTRODUCTION

Let’s take a closer look at the structure of a good classification essay. Remember that you should build your paper around the categories you write about, and I suggest using the following method of organizing your thoughts.

As with any other essay, you start with an introduction. Here you are supposed to state your topic, add a couple of descriptive details (don’t make it too long!) and suggest the purpose of your essay.

Remember to put your thesis statement in the last sentence of the introductory paragraph. You should also include the information about the topic and classification principle in your thesis statement. When you write a classification essay, feel free to name the categories if you wish and remember that your thesis statement should justify the specific groups chosen for classification. For example: Hawaiian tourists can enjoy many entertaining activities (topic), but some of the most popular are represented by three types of water sports (classification principle): sailing, snorkelling, and surfing (categories).

How to write a classification essay MAIN BODY

We’ve finished dealing with the introduction, and it’s time to start working on the body of your paper.

Remember that each body paragraph in the classification essay outline should open with a topic sentence that serves as a central element of the whole paragraph. Your topic sentence should narrow the focus of the entire essay to the category discussed in a particular paragraph. For example: “Sailing in Hawaii is one tradition that has remained unchangeable over the years.” After your topic sentence is ready, maintain it with additional details and provide a more comprehensive illustration of the category. Classification essays require many details and examples.

You may structuralize your body paragraphs in any order, just make sure it is logical. For instance, you may start writing about the most common types of water sports and move to the least familiar. However, do not forget to establish logical connections between the categories – compare them, comment, summarize or augment some essential details. Feel free to use the following transitional words, which are the most appropriate for usage in a classification essay: firstly, subsequently, lastly, initially, in regard to, in terms of, the first kind (group, type), the second group (kind, type), the third type (group, kind), etc.

How to write a classification essay CONCLUSION

Now let’s focus on the conclusion for a classification essay. In the concluding paragraph, you have an opportunity to blend all the categories and approaches you have been investigating. You are free in structure for the closing paragraph. For instance, you may write about each type discussed in the classification essay again, summarizing its strong and weak points, or you may emphasize the advantages of one category over the other and explain the reasons – just make sure your classification essay conclusion meets the purpose of the essay and conveys your main idea or inference properly.

Briefly speaking, when you write a classification essay, you should identify the topic in the introduction, present your classification principle in the thesis statement, develop the topic and establish connections in the main body, and, finally, draw some inferences about the group or the topic in general in your conclusion.

Stages of writing a classification essay

We’ve finished with the theoretical part of our guide, and now we are moving to the practical one. We know that the writing process is highly creative and it’s hard to set rules and time limits, but we still believe that having a plan will help you while writing. So, how to write a classification essay? We can offer you the following set of actions:

• Select a topic of interest and limit it. If your instructor does not provide you with a particular topic, choose it independently and refer to the subject of your interest. For instance, consider the following options and use them as a basis for a classification essay:
• Evaluate local daycare options by affordability.
• Establish an individual classification criteria set for evaluating movies and TV-programs .
• Break the topic of a classification essay into patterns . After your topic is selected, you should consider all the possible options of its classification and carry out some research.
• Choose a classification principle. You need to choose the most important aspect of a certain topic and select the categories related to this aspect. Make sure that all of your categories are logically connected and have the same basis of classification. For instance, if you are writing about jobs and you classify them by type of employment, you should write about freelance, part-time, and full-time jobs, but omit the details about workplace routine, difficulty, purpose, etc.
• Consider the importance of each category. Once you have divided your topic into groups under similar classification criteria, evaluate the importance of each group and decide how you will organize your essay. You may begin with the most important group and finish with the least necessary or vice versa.
• Establish the purpose of the classification essay. Once you have evaluated the importance of each category, set up the purpose of your writing and do your best to achieve it!
• Put your ideas into a diagram or outline. It will help you to begin your first draft successfully, and finally organize your ideas in the most logical way.
• Develop a thesis statement. Remember that your thesis statement should refer to the specific topic, establish a basis for categorization, and name the groups you have developed. A working thesis statement must be meaningful and clear.
• Start writing an introduction. Open your classification essay by explaining the importance and purpose of writing, evaluate your role in the research, and explain which classification method you use and why.
• Write topic sentences and body paragraphs of a classification essay. Dedicate each topic sentence to a certain element or group from your thesis statement and expand their meaning in the body paragraphs. Do not dedicate one paragraph to highlighting the specifics of two or more categories, as it will ruin the logical order of developing a thought.
• Sum up the ideas in the conclusion for a classification essay. Summarize the main concepts highlighted in the body paragraphs and draw some inferences. Express the limitations of your classification, if there are any.
• Proofread the classification essay. One of the biggest mistakes students make is forgetting to proofread the paper and submitting it with grammar or spelling mistakes. Proofread the classification essay thoroughly and correct the mistakes, if there are any.
• Check the classification essay for plagiarism. Even if you did not use someone else’s words, you could forget to cite all the sources properly. To avoid misunderstandings, check your paper and make sure it is 100% original.

Guidelines and tightening your essay

Now you know a lot about a great classification essay, but the question is: what to write about? Though the choice of the classification essay ideas seems exceedingly difficult, there is a classical way of moving your ideas in the right direction. Look through the classification essay topics suggested below and develop your own.

• Types of users in a social network (evaluate them by appearance, behavior, or activity)
• Types of artists (classification by area of proficiency, popularity or artistic values)
• Extracurricular activities: unusual, unexpected, and common
• The most popular ways to keep fit (diets, exercising, giving up bad habits, etc.)
• Types of health and their importance in modern life (physical, emotional, spiritual, social, mental, and environmental.)

You can find more topics for classification essay and other types of essays in our book Essay Becomes Easy on Amazon.  You will forget what struggling over a topic means with our awesome topic list!

Read this awesome classification essay example

We want to not only help you in defining the types of friends classification essay, format, structuring, and styling aspects. We also hope that after reading this outstanding classification essay on friends sample, you will see how a working classification essay must be arranged and written.

Classification Essay – Types of Friends

In the world, there are friends, close friends, and best friends. With a friend, you share common interests and find each other’s company pleasant, but your relationship does not delve much deeper. A close friend is someone you have known for at least a few years, and in that time, you have shared emotional experiences. The closest type of friend is a best friend; to be best friends, you have known each other for more than a decade, you have shared emotional experiences, and you have a shared trauma. Being a best friend means you have been there for the fun times as well as the difficult times, and these times bond you to each other.

You share similar interests with a friend, and you enjoy his or her company. Furthermore, according to the Merriam-Webster online dictionary, “a friend is a person who has a strong liking for and trust in another person” ( Friend Definition & Meaning – Merriam-Webster). Using this paragraph’s topic sentence and the dictionary’s definition of a friend, one can contend that a friend is a person with whom you attend a party or watch a football game. You and a friend have a good time because, as the definition states, you have a “strong liking for and trust” in each other. However, your time spent with a friend will not go much further than this mutual like and trust of each other. For example, with a friend, you may not share intimate thoughts or experiences. While you trust a friend, you do not trust a friend too deeply. This is not a bad thing, however, for you do enjoy your time with a friend, and it is good to have friends with whom you can keep conversations light and fun.

A close friend is created over time and through shared emotional experiences. To become a close friend, your level of trust goes deeper than with a friend. You and a best friend have had intimate experiences, and the level of friendship goes beyond trust to help. For instance, when a close friend moves, you will help him or her pack his or her belongings. You will, of course, hate to see a close friend move away, but you believe it is an obligation of close friend status to help with the move. Not only will you help a best friend pack and move, but a best friend can improve your emotional and physical health. The online article “Making Good Friends” states that “good friends relieve stress…developing close friendships can also have a powerful impact on your physical health” (Making Good Friends – HelpGuide.org). From the source, we see that not only do close (good) friends help you move your possessions, but close friends can make you more relaxed and promote good health, meaning that close friends are good for you internally and externally.

The final type of friend is a best friend, and a best friend is a person you have known for over a decade, have shared emotional experiences, and shared trauma. For a best friend, you take them to the airport and pick them up; you help a best friend pack, and then you drive the moving truck for a best friend. In addition to helping a best friend travel or move, you and a best friend have shared good times together. These good times can range from road trips to birthday weekend getaways to shared vacations. Time spent with a best friend will be more intense than with a friend or a close friend. These intense times can also mean that a best friend has been there for you when you were at your most vulnerable. A best friend helps you cope with the passing of a loved one, a failed romance, or the loss of a job. Just as we saw that a close friend provides emotional and physical health benefits, a best friend administers those same benefits, with the added plus of knowing you as well as you know yourself. Knowing the nuances of your personality and applying them to the traumatic situation allows a best friend to know the best words to say and the best actions to perform in order to safely get you through a trying time.

As we have seen, there are three types of friends. On the entry-level is a friend, a person with whom you share interests and enjoy being around, but the relationship does not get too serious. The next type of friend is a close friend. You will have known a close friend for a few years, and you will enjoy sharing experiences together. The highest type of friend is a best friend, a person who has all of the elements of a friend and a close friend with the addition of going through hard times with you. Friends are good to have, and it is good to have multiple types of friends for multiple situations in your life.

Works Cited

“friend.” Merriam-Webster.com . Merriam-Webster, 2022. Web. 13 April 2022. https://www.merriamwebster.com/dictionary/friend#:~:text=1%20%3A%20a%20person%20who%20has,a%20friend%20to%20environmental%20causes. Web. 13 April 2022. Robinson, Lawrence, et al. “Making Good Friends.” https://www.helpguide.org/articles/relationships-communication/making-good-friends.htm#:~:text=Friends%20bring%20more%20happiness%20into,impact%20on%20your%20physical%20health. Accessed 13 April 2022.

Mistakes to avoid while writing a classification essay

And we’re almost there. Now that you know everything you are supposed to do, let’s have a look at some mistakes that should be avoided while writing your paper.

– First of all, make sure you do not leave a category out of attention. For example, if you write about healthy diets, you cannot avoid dairy products just because you don’t like them.

– Secondly, do not write about too many categories. It will blur your essay and make the classification less precise.

– You should use a similar criteria set. For example, if you are writing about water sports popular among tourists, you shouldn’t include ratings of water sports among natives who live near the seaside.

– Support the topic with examples equally. Providing an unequal number of examples for some category will make a particular group less significant than others.

Classification essay writing checklist

Wow, you’ve done an amazing job so far if you have been following this guide while writing. Even if you haven’t, this is still useful! Let’s make sure once again that your paper contains everything it should, and then you can send it to your professor.

• Have you determined the purpose of writing and explained it in the introduction?
• Have you clearly identified the group you are categorizing?
• Have you written about your topic, categorizing principle, and groups developed in your thesis sentence?
• Does your thesis statement justify the groups chosen for deeper analysis?
• Does each of your body paragraphs open with a topic sentence?
• Do your topic sentences narrow the topic of the whole paper to the topic of a particular paragraph?
• Have you complimented topic sentences with background information and descriptive details to expand readers’ knowledge about certain categories?
• Is the structure of your body paragraphs and connection between them logical?
• Have you used transitions and comparisons for enhancing the structure of the main body?
• Have you blended together all the investigated categories in the concluding paragraph?
• Have you made a logical inference in the conclusion (provided a summary of strong and weak points of each category or emphasized the advantages of one category over the other)?
• Have you achieved the purpose of writing which was established in the introductory paragraph?
• Have you used a single classification principle?
• Have you made sure not to forget about any important categories to write about?
• Have you avoided including inappropriate or unimportant categories in your essay?
• Have you supported each category with examples equally?
• Have you established logical connections between categories?

FAQ on classification essay writing you often ask

1. how do you start a classification essay.

Students should open a classification essay, as any standard essay, with an introduction. The first paragraph must present the subject and explain the topic to readers. Note that it should contain some highlights on how the topic divides into more minor issues and groups.

2. What is the purpose of classification?

The core idea of classification is breaking the vast subject into smaller subgroups of subjects. In addition, classification means dividing the subgroups by categories and developing the overall purpose.

3. How to write a thesis statement for a classification essay?

After you decide on the topic for a classification essay, you need to develop the main thesis. Before you proceed with the core idea for your paper, you must define the core categories and subgroups that relate to the subject. To generate a working thesis statement, you must include:

• The names of things you will classify.
• The types of categories you developed.
• The basics of the complete classification.

4. How does a classification essay differ from other types of essays?

The main idea of writing a classification and division essay is to organize things related to the whole subject into subgroups and categories. It is vital to include examples of items for each group and class.

5. How to write a hook for a classification essay?

The hook must be presented in an introduction part of an essay. In addition to explaining the prerequisites and aims of the classification, it should contain an element that will draw readers’ attention. A hook can be a joke, a quotation, a surprising fact, a rhetorical question, etc., related to the topic.

What else can we offer you except this classification essay guide?

We created this perfect instruction on classification essay writing to keep you updated on the latest trends and rules of writing such papers. Since we work with brilliant authors who know everything about academic writing, we can help you with any problem providing you with guides, blog posts, useful links, videos, and book suggestions.

However, we also can help you to get an individually written essay sample or any other college paper you might need. If you cannot finish your classification essay or other paper, not able to generate a topic, format, and structure the text, our team will give a helping hand in a heartbeat. Order our assistance and find a perfect online essay writer who will follow the teacher’s instructions.

Main photo by Deon Black from Unsplash

2 thoughts on “ How to Write a Classification Essay ”

Thank you for your help with the topics for my papers. I usually lack creativity, so your website is a gem for me.

You helped me create a perfect classification essay outline, so my paper was logical and readable. Thanks!

Leave a Reply Cancel reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

Save my name, email, and website in this browser for the next time I comment.

What our customers say

Our website uses secure cookies. More details

Get professional help from best writers right from your phone

Grab our 3 e-books bundle for $27 FREE

Pardon Our Interruption

As you were browsing something about your browser made us think you were a bot. There are a few reasons this might happen:

• You've disabled JavaScript in your web browser.
• You're a power user moving through this website with super-human speed.
• You've disabled cookies in your web browser.
• A third-party browser plugin, such as Ghostery or NoScript, is preventing JavaScript from running. Additional information is available in this support article .

To regain access, please make sure that cookies and JavaScript are enabled before reloading the page.

Get science-backed answers as you write with Paperpal's Research feature

How to Structure an Essay

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

Table of Contents

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

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

Writing an essay: basic elements and some key principles

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

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

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

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

Essay structure template

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

Essay structures

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

Chronological structure

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

Problem-methods-solutions structure

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

Compare and contrast structures

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

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

Frequently asked questions on essay structure

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

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

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

Paperpal is a comprehensive AI writing toolkit that helps students and researchers achieve 2x the writing in half the time. It leverages 21+ years of STM experience and insights from millions of research articles to provide in-depth academic writing, language editing, and submission readiness support to help you write better, faster.  

Get accurate academic translations, rewriting support, grammar checks, vocabulary suggestions, and generative AI assistance that delivers human precision at machine speed. Try for free or upgrade to Paperpal Prime starting at US$19 a month to access premium features, including consistency, plagiarism, and 30+ submission readiness checks to help you succeed.  

Experience the future of academic writing – Sign up to Paperpal and start writing for free!  

Related Reads:

Powerful academic phrases to improve your essay writing .

• How to Paraphrase Research Papers Effectively
• How to Use AI to Enhance Your College Essays and Thesis
• How to Cite Social Media Sources in Academic Writing? 

Leveraging Generative AI to Enhance Student Understanding of Complex Research Concepts 

You may also like, leveraging generative ai to enhance student understanding of..., how to write a good hook for essays,..., addressing peer review feedback and mastering manuscript revisions..., how paperpal can boost comprehension and foster interdisciplinary..., what is the importance of a concept paper..., how to write the first draft of a..., mla works cited page: format, template & examples, how to ace grant writing for research funding..., how to write a high-quality conference paper.