Leaving Cert Notes and Sample Answers

Descriptive Essay: Journey through a barren landscape for Leaving Cert English #625Lab

Write a descriptive essay in which you take your readers on a journey through a barren landscape (urban or rural) that you have experienced..

#625Lab . An excellent way to write a descriptive essay is to recall your travels, especially if there is a hint of nostalgia involved.   You may also like:  Complete Guide to Leaving Cert English  (€). 

Descriptive Essay: Journey through a barren landscape for Leaving Cert English

  • Post author: Martina
  • Post published: May 24, 2018
  • Post category: #625Lab / Descriptive Essay / English

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How to Describe a Landscape

descriptive essay on landscape

They are many and varied, so I’ll just touch on each. These, as usual, come from writing I admire, so don’t copy them. Use them to inspire your own creativity:

open land

Dusty, flat, featureless land–is that your setting?

  • Great sandstone outcropping
  • Easing over humps and trenches, potholes and stone rivers, bashing through the trees where a track is blocked, the bucking climbs up steep eroded banks
  • This wasn’t a Sahara-like desert of sand dunes. There were sporadic tufts of trees, acacia and baobab, and on-again off-again grasses and shrubs as far as the eye could see atop the brown earthen crust, a surface that looked as hard as stone and somehow even less inviting.
  • A large outcropping of bundled roots from the remains of a dead baobab had broken free from the hard pack alongside the road and needed to be negotiated, a dry wadi that crossed the highway required downshifting to safely cross,
  • The miles, the motion, the flat wide-open land, the twisted Joshua trees and the hot orange sunsets.
  • because of the time and the approaching rain, followed small antelope trails instead of the larger buffalo trails, and in this way kept to a more direct route
  • dust was everywhere—on leaves, branches, even on my teeth and lips
  • Narrow rocky defile
  • Beneath the jutting stone ledge, she sat hunched into a ball, knees tight against her chest, her damp clothes about her.

mountains

Or is it the rugged, craggy mountains of Alaska?

  • distant harsh mountains are composed of granite, covered with thorny shrubs and acacia trees (Africa)
  • mountains, thrusting spires of naked rock into the heavens so high that you would believe the very sky was pierced
  • bounded on three sides by basalt outcrops and partially screened by brush
  • followed the ridge down toward a patch of grass
  • Olduvai appeared like a dark rift
  • The river was a vigorous and optimistic blue
  • back to a rotting log that some long-forgotten flood had deposited crossways on the spit
  • mouth of a thick sulfurous stream
  • watch the river (like a snake) to see the coiling of its muscular currents, catch the shimmering of waves that caught the sunlight like scales
  • dry creek bed

forest

How about a thick verdant forest, dappled with sun?

  • the gallery forests of river red gum, various grasses, that lined the channels. Maybe a low-lying area where runoff from high ground collected after rain. Sometimes dense stands of mulga (acacia) woodland would grow there, where water was easiest to find in a desert.
  • swallowed up by the jungle
  • thickly scented spruce branches clutched at his clothes, slapped against his chest and shredded his hand
  • thick forest that carpeted the uplands
  • Along its length, cottonwoods had sprung up; young trees little more than twice a man’s height. Thick grass had carpeted the narrow strip
  • Cracks like hardweed through a broken sidewalk
  • Gordian knot of one-way streets
  • he saw Russia. He saw its fields, steppes, villages and towns, all bleached white by the moon and bright stars.
  • Contour lines
  • Man-made objects
  • Hawkes Pond gleamed through a very thin fringe of trees. It was a long narrow pond and across it the land rose up in a wooded hill crowned with power lines.
  •  Splashing through somewhat deeper water, meter-tall sedge beds, speed is very slow and awkward.
  • Reeds and cattails, bunchgrasses, dense thicket, (present as small mounds 10-15 cm tall
  • Grass covers mounds, depressions that you would tend to stumble in as you walk
  • Croc-infested rivers during rainy season would inhibit large mammal movement
  • Mts (rain shadow), rivers (flood), lakes (subterranean water)
  • African habitats (mosaic pattern): forests (groundcover is ferns), woodlands (ground cover is grasses, no canopy)), bushlands (tree species grow as bushes with multiple stems, more fruit) with thickets, shrublands (scrub or dwarf woodlands), grasslands, wooded grasslands, deserts
  • Plants: euphorbia, cacti,
  • Grassland—-plateau, open country, velds, scrubland, deep washes, wadis, gully, arroyo, wash, cut, creek
  • Grasses—poacea Hyparrhenia diplandra, forbs, coarse and grows in tufts, euphorbia
  • Savanna vegetation—corms, bulbs, tap roots, rhizomes
  • Found a very nice outcropping of rocks just over the crest, the kind of place snakes love.

Copyright ©2022 worddreams.wordpress.com – All rights reserved.

Jacqui Murray  is the author of the popular prehistoric fiction saga,  Man vs. Nature  which explores seminal events in man’s evolution one trilogy at a time. She is also the author of the  Rowe-Delamagente thrillers  and  Building a Midshipman , the story of her daughter’s journey from high school to United States Naval Academy .  Her non-fiction includes over a hundred books on integrating tech into education, reviews as an  Amazon Vine Voice ,  a columnist for  NEA Today , and a freelance journalist on tech ed topics. Look for her next prehistoric fiction,  Savage Land,  Winter 2024 .

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52 thoughts on “ How to Describe a Landscape ”

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Thank you for this!! I’m 14 and writing my own book, and this was very helpful 🙂 I’ll definitely be coming back

Like Liked by 1 person

Well aren’t you amazing! You have so much fun ahead of you, as a writer. There are about 70 of these description lists. Enjoy them!

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Really good site thanks

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Brilliant post, I feel that the ability to describe landscapes is an indispensable skill that every author and poet must possess to a reasonable degree. The words hills and valleys are particularly beautiful to my eyes, reminds me of those wonderful opening lines from Marlowe’s poem “The Passionate Shepherd to His Love”:

“Come live with me and be my love, And we will all the pleasures prove, That Valleys, groves, hills, and fields, Woods, or steepy mountain yields.”

I have a lot of respect for the likes of Peter Matthiessen, who can so beautifully describe nature.

I am not well acquainted with Matthiessen’s works, although I am aware of his well deserved and venerable reputation in literary circles. From the excerpts of his writings I have read, I agree that his prose is indeed rich with beautiful detail, and I plan to buy a copy of his Snow Leopard in the future.

One he is so well known for. I like “The Tree Where Man Was Born.”

Reblogged this on quirkywritingcorner .

Thanks for the reblog!

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The description of the naked rocks piercing seemingly piercing the skies is amazing!

What a visual picture, hunh? I wonder how some of these writers come up with this stuff.

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I am amazed by the fact that, this blog is equally attractive for both young and old readers. I am 60 years old, have read a lot of books, used to write when I was in my teen years.I have plenty of time now, after bringing up my family on my own, recently discovered that spark still there, and this blog is icing on the cake, well done!! Keep it up!!!!

Thanks, Tahira. I’m over 60, so we’re almost like sisters. I did the same as you–waited until the two children were launched to ignite my love of reading and writing. Now, I’m in full bloom.

Great collection, Jacqui. It gives us plenty to build on with our own imaginations. Thanks for sharing. — Suzanne Joshi

For me, landscape is as much about atavistic reactions as what I see. I love reading authors who can really describe what they see.

Excellent post, Jacqui. What a collection you’ve amassed. I think what really makes a description stand out is the ability of the writer to make the reader feel familiar with the place, as though they’ve been there before. And that happens when the writer really knows exactly what he’s looking at, how it feels and smells, all the details that express the uniqueness as well the intimacy to be universal. I wonder how your very young readers/followers are doing now? Hope they are still writing. Nice that you attract a range of readers, all of whom find you blog helpful.

That is so tricky, too. These caught my attention because they did put me right there, even places I’ve never before been.

Reblogged this on The Well-Rounded Writer .

Thanks for the reblog, Elizabeth!

Love this. Really useful and inspiring terms!

I love nature. Writers grab me with great outdoor descriptions.

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When I’m describing a landscape, I find I either repeat myself (definite no-no) or my words are bland and boring. I need some pop and pizzazz.

That’s what made me start these lists. Seeing how others describe landscapes and dogs and emotions helps me tap my well of words. Thanks for visiting

I’m 15 and lately I’ve been having difficulty describing some scenes in the stories I write. I absolutely love this blog! It’s so creative, and it’s great that it’s here to help give me some inspiration!

This collection of ‘descriptors’ is perfect for you, Victoria. These are all from books I’ve read–how great authors describe whatever the topic is. Use them for inspiration. Let me know if you’re looking for any particular collection. Maybe I have it.

Here’s the whole list: https://worddreams.wordpress.com/category/descriptors/

very creative..loved this post..thanks for sharing and I really like your writing style Jacqui

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I’m new to writing, only 14 and your blog really helps me ^.^ Thanks a lot and I wish you the best of luck

You’re the perfect age to start writing. I wish I’d started then.

Thanks, a lot. That’s very useful.

These are some of my favorite phrases. They create effective visual images in my brain. I’m glad you like them.

Don’t you love those dusty cowboys at the top of the post? I could write a whole book about that feeling.

i luv word-picture-paintings

Thanks, Faith. I have a massive list of wonderful descriptors I go to when I’m stuck. They never fail me.

Ooh, Jacqui! I want to think like that, write like that. Beautiful examples! I love that I can always come to your blog and find real handles on writing. Thank you!

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The Top 10 Descriptive Paragraphs About Mountains

descriptive essay on landscape

As a teacher, when you’re looking for examples of descriptive paragraphs for your class to study and explore, there’s no better subject than the majesty of mountains. Mountains offer a different type of beauty—one that can be both awe-inspiring and peaceful simultaneously.

To help give your students an idea of what mountain descriptions look like, we’ve created a list with some of the top 10 most evocative passages about mountains—all written by some beloved authors over the years!

Related : For more, check out our article on  Descriptive Paragraphs About King Charles  here.

Table of Contents

1. The Majestic Mountains

Their rugged surfaces, etched with the countless stories of time, are a complex tapestry of shadows and light. These surfaces, worn by the ceaseless march of seasons, bear the imprints of centuries, their crinkles and folds narrating tales of eras gone by.

The sun, a celestial artist, paints the mountains with a precision that is nothing short of poetic. As it embarks on its daily journey across the expansive horizon, it bathes the mountains in a kaleidoscope of colors, from the soft pastels of dawn to the fiery hues of dusk.

The craggy faces of these mountainous giants, speckled with the vibrant greens of hardy vegetation and the pristine white of winter snow, hold a raw, natural beauty that is both awe-inspiring and humbling.

Related : For more, check out our article on  Descriptive Paragraphs About The Queen  here.

2. A Symphony of Silence

Listen closely! The mountains speak in a symphony of silence, a language so profound that it transcends words. This silence is punctuated only by the crisp crunch of snow underfoot or the distant echo of a lone bird’s call.

The mountains beckon us to their untamed peak, inviting us to explore and discover the lessons that lay hidden within their depths. Beyond the chilly winds and steep slopes are secrets that remain untouched and unspoken, waiting for those who will brave its heights.

Those courageous enough to venture into the mountains will be rewarded with a serenity so profound it seems almost sacred, an experience they are unlikely to forget.

Related : For more, check out our article on  Descriptive Paragraphs About Macbeth  here.

3. The Beauty of Solitude

In the heart of the mountains, solitude is not a state of loneliness, but a tranquil companionship with nature. Here, one can commune with the wind that rustles through the pines, the snow that blankets the slopes, and the rocks that have stood the test of time.

The harshness of the terrain encourages self-reliance and teaches resilience, while its serenity facilitates contemplation and growth. The mountains offer a unique opportunity to experience the joy of being alone, far away from the clamor and chaos of everyday life.

Related : For more, check out our article on  Descriptive Paragraphs About The Wind  here.

4. The Dance of Light and Shadow

The mountains are more than just a beautiful sight, they are portals to an alternate reality filled with possibility and potential. They remind us that there is beauty even in moments of darkness, if we take the time to look for it.

Mountain FeatureSensory DescriptionsImagery and Figurative LanguageDescriptive VocabularyMood/Atmosphere Created
Majestic PeaksTowering above the landscape, the peaks pierce the horizon like jagged teeth.The peaks stand as sentinels, guardians of the ancient land below.Lofty, imposing, rugged, soaringAwe-inspiring, humbling, majestic
Snow-Capped SummitsThe crisp white snow blankets the summits, glistening under the sun’s embrace.Snowflakes dance upon the summits, a delicate crown of winter’s purest jewels.Pristine, frosted, sparkling, untouchedSerene, tranquil, pure
Rocky CliffsThe rough texture of the cliffs is a tapestry of stone, scarred by time and the elements.Cliffs rise like the walls of a fortress, unyielding and steeped in shadow.Craggy, jagged, weathered, formidableRugged, enduring, stoic
Alpine MeadowsThe scent of wildflowers and fresh grass fills the air, carried by the gentle mountain breeze.Meadows bloom with a riot of colors, a painter’s palette spilled across the valley floor.Verdant, blossoming, fragrant, lushPeaceful, vibrant, refreshing
Mountain StreamsThe sound of babbling water as it courses over rocks and through crevices is a constant melody.Streams weave through the landscape like silver threads, stitching earth and sky together.Crystal-clear, babbling, meandering, briskSoothing, lively, invigorating
Forested SlopesThe rustling leaves and the soft crunch of pine needles underfoot create a symphony of natural sounds.The forest cloaks the mountain’s flanks, a verdant sea swaying in the wind’s breath.Dense, towering, whispering, shadedMysterious, tranquil, enigmatic
WildlifeThe occasional cry of an eagle overhead or the distant howl of a wolf punctuates the mountain’s stillness.Creatures of fur and feather claim the mountain as their realm, fleeting shadows amidst the trees.Elusive, wild, untamed, free-roamingAlive, untouched, harmonious

5. The Mountains’ Might

Their strength is palpable, radiating a quiet assurance that they will endure long after we have returned to the dust. Their might serves as a reminder of our own insignificance in the face of nature’s grandeur, a humbling experience that puts our fleeting existence into perspective.

6. The Call of the Wild

In the heart of the mountains, the wild calls with a primal lure, awakening a deep-seated yearning for exploration and adventure. Here, amidst the rugged terrain, the untamed beauty, one can feel truly alive, their senses sharpened by the crisp mountain air and the stunning vistas that unfold at every turn.

The mountains are a call to the wild, an invitation to explore their depths and discover our true potential. They offer us a glimpse into an ancient wisdom beyond our understanding, reminding us that beauty and power are intertwined in the timeless embrace of nature. Adventure awaits—all we have to do is heed its call. Take the plunge, embrace the risk, and find strength in the wild.

7. A Sanctuary of Serenity

The mountains provide a refuge from our daily lives, offering us solace in their stillness and serenity. Let us take a deep breath and be filled with the peace that only nature can provide.

8. The Seasons’ Canvas

The mountains are more than just a backdrop to life’s ups and downs—they are our teachers, guides, and companions. In their embrace we can find strength and solace in times of struggle, and joy and peace in times of ease.

9. The Mountains’ Majesty

Here we can find courage to take risks, explore new possibilities, and live life to its fullest. The mountains beckon—to stand in their glory, to marvel at their timeless beauty, and to be moved by the awesomeness of nature.

10. The Mountains’ Song

The mountains sing a song as old as time itself. It is a melody woven from the rustle of leaves, the babble of brooks, the whistle of the wind, and the call of the wild. It is a symphony that resonates in the heart, a tune that speaks of peace, strength, beauty, and the eternal rhythm of nature.

Take the plunge, embrace the risk, and explore the wilds of life’s eternal song. The mountains await—all we have to do is listen. So take a deep breath and be filled with the peace that only nature can provide, for here lies an adventure unlike any other.

In essence, these masterfully crafted passages about mountains are more than just examples of descriptive writing; they are a testament to the beauty of language and its power to bring the world to life in the reader’s mind.

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  • How to write a descriptive essay | Example & tips

How to Write a Descriptive Essay | Example & Tips

Published on July 30, 2020 by Jack Caulfield . Revised on August 14, 2023.

A descriptive essay gives a vivid, detailed description of something—generally a place or object, but possibly something more abstract like an emotion. This type of essay , like the narrative essay , is more creative than most academic writing .

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Table of contents

Descriptive essay topics, tips for writing descriptively, descriptive essay example, other interesting articles, frequently asked questions about descriptive essays.

When you are assigned a descriptive essay, you’ll normally be given a specific prompt or choice of prompts. They will often ask you to describe something from your own experience.

  • Describe a place you love to spend time in.
  • Describe an object that has sentimental value for you.

You might also be asked to describe something outside your own experience, in which case you’ll have to use your imagination.

  • Describe the experience of a soldier in the trenches of World War I.
  • Describe what it might be like to live on another planet.

Sometimes you’ll be asked to describe something more abstract, like an emotion.

If you’re not given a specific prompt, try to think of something you feel confident describing in detail. Think of objects and places you know well, that provoke specific feelings or sensations, and that you can describe in an interesting way.

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See an example

descriptive essay on landscape

The key to writing an effective descriptive essay is to find ways of bringing your subject to life for the reader. You’re not limited to providing a literal description as you would be in more formal essay types.

Make use of figurative language, sensory details, and strong word choices to create a memorable description.

Use figurative language

Figurative language consists of devices like metaphor and simile that use words in non-literal ways to create a memorable effect. This is essential in a descriptive essay; it’s what gives your writing its creative edge and makes your description unique.

Take the following description of a park.

This tells us something about the place, but it’s a bit too literal and not likely to be memorable.

If we want to make the description more likely to stick in the reader’s mind, we can use some figurative language.

Here we have used a simile to compare the park to a face and the trees to facial hair. This is memorable because it’s not what the reader expects; it makes them look at the park from a different angle.

You don’t have to fill every sentence with figurative language, but using these devices in an original way at various points throughout your essay will keep the reader engaged and convey your unique perspective on your subject.

Use your senses

Another key aspect of descriptive writing is the use of sensory details. This means referring not only to what something looks like, but also to smell, sound, touch, and taste.

Obviously not all senses will apply to every subject, but it’s always a good idea to explore what’s interesting about your subject beyond just what it looks like.

Even when your subject is more abstract, you might find a way to incorporate the senses more metaphorically, as in this descriptive essay about fear.

Choose the right words

Writing descriptively involves choosing your words carefully. The use of effective adjectives is important, but so is your choice of adverbs , verbs , and even nouns.

It’s easy to end up using clichéd phrases—“cold as ice,” “free as a bird”—but try to reflect further and make more precise, original word choices. Clichés provide conventional ways of describing things, but they don’t tell the reader anything about your unique perspective on what you’re describing.

Try looking over your sentences to find places where a different word would convey your impression more precisely or vividly. Using a thesaurus can help you find alternative word choices.

  • My cat runs across the garden quickly and jumps onto the fence to watch it from above.
  • My cat crosses the garden nimbly and leaps onto the fence to survey it from above.

However, exercise care in your choices; don’t just look for the most impressive-looking synonym you can find for every word. Overuse of a thesaurus can result in ridiculous sentences like this one:

  • My feline perambulates the allotment proficiently and capers atop the palisade to regard it from aloft.

An example of a short descriptive essay, written in response to the prompt “Describe a place you love to spend time in,” is shown below.

Hover over different parts of the text to see how a descriptive essay works.

On Sunday afternoons I like to spend my time in the garden behind my house. The garden is narrow but long, a corridor of green extending from the back of the house, and I sit on a lawn chair at the far end to read and relax. I am in my small peaceful paradise: the shade of the tree, the feel of the grass on my feet, the gentle activity of the fish in the pond beside me.

My cat crosses the garden nimbly and leaps onto the fence to survey it from above. From his perch he can watch over his little kingdom and keep an eye on the neighbours. He does this until the barking of next door’s dog scares him from his post and he bolts for the cat flap to govern from the safety of the kitchen.

With that, I am left alone with the fish, whose whole world is the pond by my feet. The fish explore the pond every day as if for the first time, prodding and inspecting every stone. I sometimes feel the same about sitting here in the garden; I know the place better than anyone, but whenever I return I still feel compelled to pay attention to all its details and novelties—a new bird perched in the tree, the growth of the grass, and the movement of the insects it shelters…

Sitting out in the garden, I feel serene. I feel at home. And yet I always feel there is more to discover. The bounds of my garden may be small, but there is a whole world contained within it, and it is one I will never get tired of inhabiting.

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

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The key difference is that a narrative essay is designed to tell a complete story, while a descriptive essay is meant to convey an intense description of a particular place, object, or concept.

Narrative and descriptive essays both allow you to write more personally and creatively than other kinds of essays , and similar writing skills can apply to both.

If you’re not given a specific prompt for your descriptive essay , think about places and objects you know well, that you can think of interesting ways to describe, or that have strong personal significance for you.

The best kind of object for a descriptive essay is one specific enough that you can describe its particular features in detail—don’t choose something too vague or general.

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Caulfield, J. (2023, August 14). How to Write a Descriptive Essay | Example & Tips. Scribbr. Retrieved June 10, 2024, from https://www.scribbr.com/academic-essay/descriptive-essay/

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4 Best Descriptive Essay Examples About Nature

Descriptive essay examples about nature

Table of Contents

Opening remarks.

Nature is one of those certain things that you cannot get rid of, whether you live on a farm or in a downtown skyscraper. It has its way to exert its dominance either by sheer beauty to uplift spirits and moods, or by its ferocity to turn foundations upside down. 

Writing about nature takes a lot of time and effort. It is not something that can be mastered by simply reading a book or attending a lecture. Apart from practical tips and insights, examples can be great to work on because novice writers can see the elements of the essay working and balancing one another.

Descriptive Essay Writing

A lot of it is self-evident from the nomenclature but certain brass tacks should be covered before moving on to the examples. Descriptive writing is about describing a subject under consideration. A descriptive essay is a subjective or objective account of a person, a thing, a place, an event or experience, and more. It is written with acute reliance on figurative language, sensory details, and other literary devices.

Experts have divided descriptive essay writing into two distinct types. One is objective where only “facts” get to be shared with the readers. The other form is expressionist where a subjective approach and personal angles play out for the writer and ultimately the reader.

In schools and colleges, descriptive writing is employed by instructors, both in the form of full-fledged essays as well as descriptive paragraphs and other short assignments. The exercise allows them to gauge the thinking, writing, and editing capabilities of the students and then award them scores based on the results.

Purpose of Writing A Descriptive Essay

Just like much of writing, the purpose of  writing a descriptive essay  is to entertain the readers and let them “see” or “feel” the subject that the writer is experimenting on. By relying on literary devices and sensory details, such as similes, metaphors, comparisons, and more, writers can chalk out relevant details of the topic. That’s why the real test of descriptive writing is how much readers actually “saw”, “felt”, “heard”, “touched”, or “tasted” the subject. 

The purpose of writing evolves from one place to another. For instance, the rationale behind composing riveting descriptive essays in academic institutions is to woo the teachers and secure higher scores. Descriptive essays are also used by colleges and universities to base the candidature of aspirants for different programs and degrees.

4 Examples of Descriptive Essays On Nature

If you ask a high school student or a college student for that matter, how they can see and define nature, it would be difficult for them. Either they would have too much to say with little value, or too less to put into words with no room for explanation and expansion. To help students better understand and implement aspects of nature into words, we have dedicated this section to cover four different aspects of nature. One is where it is useful in terms of monetary value, the second is where it is furious and punishing, the third is where it is beautiful for the sake of it, and the fourth is where it is transforming essentially covering all the other three aspects.

When Nature Is Useful

A descriptive essay is more than just putting flowery words and phrases into paragraphs to enhance their value. It is to connect readers with the “true” picture of the phenomenon concerning nature. The instance where nature can be useful spans occupations and fields. A fisherman whose livelihood depends on the tame nature of the seas and who goes out away from the shores each day to fetch for himself and his family shows the useful and plentiful side of nature. While writing a descriptive essay on this angle, it is necessary to connect people’s dependence on the sole nature of “nature”.

When Nature Is Furious

From literary works of art to Hollywood movies, you can always get abundant examples of nature in killing frenzy and fury. The very duality of nature, from being beautiful for some and furious and unforgiving for others, creates a “moody” or highly volatile picture for writers. While writing about the ferocity of nature, you can always connect disasters with the narrative, from floods to earthquakes to avalanches and beyond. Again, there is always a need for showing the two sides of the coin or the proverbial picture. Otherwise, the description and the value in it can fall flat and produce lackluster results.

When Nature Is Beautiful

This is somewhat a “universal” truth as many people would blurt out that nature is indeed beautiful and quite enchanting to behold and feel. A garden full of blooming flowers or a gravel pathway in a park during the fall when the leaves turn yellow and cover that gravel path are some of the things that can make your heart skip a beat. In a descriptive essay where the writer is trying to show the beauty of it all, it is necessary to connect the writer with the narrative because the description would be hollow and unbecoming without it. In other cases, there is beauty in understatement.

When Nature Is Transforming

Nature is always transforming and that is a cruel joke of the time. Spring is always running toward the fall and life is longing to meet death. As a writer, the descriptive essay on nature’s transformation and its ability to transform things around it can be anything. It can be as brutal as a hurricane where living breathing cities can become graveyards. It can be as lovely and heart-stealing as the dew drops on cool morning grass. In addition to this, it can be useful as a stream leading fishes and other sea creatures to it for the people to eat and sell and make their livelihood.

Tips For Writing Descriptive Essays On Nature

Even after going through examples of  descriptive essays on nature , students could find it hard to connect their minds with the pen and the paper. In these cases, it is necessary to give them some tips and hacks that can help them either kick-start the process or make crucial decisions on the go.

In that spirit, here are some great tips for writing descriptive essays on nature whether it is for a high school assignment or college admission.

Figurative Language & Sensory Details

If we are to narrow down the essentials of a descriptive essay, figurative language and sensory details will take the prize. They are the essential tools that writers rely on when they need to make things come alive. Figurative language denotes the usage of words and phrases in a way where they depict other meanings than their true ones. For instance, a falling tree is not a description, but a falling yellow tree on a roadside is the description. Similarly, sensory details connect the five senses of human beings with the traits of the subjects under consideration. While writing a descriptive nature essay, this is the key!

Solid Introduction With A Hook

After the topic or the title, an introduction is a thing that makes or breaks the deal for the readers. Also called the opening of an essay, these are at the beginning of the essay and sets the proverbial stage for the other elements of the content. Professional readers use “hook” to lure readers in. These hooks come in all forms, shapes, and sizes, but their purpose remains the same. The most common and potent forms of hooks include, but are not limited to, statistics connecting the essay with the facts, a question asked by the readers, a quotation from famous works of literature, and more.

Choosing A Specific Topic

Many students think that they can string five paragraphs together with a semblance of commonality and call it an essay. Sadly, that is not the case. Before actually researching and writing a descriptive essay, they need to choose a specific topic and then research it further before outlining the whole essay. A topic and then a well-groomed title give a much-needed focus and a thread of belonging to the content. Since it is mentioned at the top of the essay, readers and potential readers will read it first before making up their minds, about whether they want to read the whole essay or not.

Can I write a descriptive essay on the beauty aspect of nature?

Of course! Nature is often attributed to as one of the most beautiful things in the universe, among both natural and artificial aspects. Whether it is about meadows or the grasslands to the snowy peaks of the mountains, the beauty of nature is indeed both subjective and objective. By defining the topic and formulating a good working title, you can write a descriptive essay on the beauty aspect of nature.

What is the best way to start a descriptive nature essay?

Readers are well aware of nature, evolving and unfolding around them. But when you are writing a descriptive essay, it is necessary to let them connect with that aspect early on. That’s why you need to set the stage in the introduction phase and let them know what the essay will be about using literary hooks and contraptions. At the end of the introduction, you can top off the introduction with a thesis statement.

How can I show different faces of nature through descriptive writing?

Descriptive writing focuses on sensory details and figurative language to overcome the barriers of space and time between the subject and the readers. When the task is to show different faces of nature through description, it is necessary to take command of figurative language and other literary devices to bridge the gap.

Is it easy to describe nature?

It depends. If a writer has experience and a deep understanding of the language, then it can be easy. For novice writers, nature can be a mixed bag. For the objective ends, it is easy and pretty straightforward. For impressionistic reasons, nature can be a tough nut to crack but things mean different when they are put in different lights.

Should I write exactly how nature makes me feel?

As far as the artistic truth is concerned, you should write about nature and how it makes you feel. Talking about how we feel, a lot depends on what we are going through internally. If your mood is fresh and your spirits are high, you can extract joy from the basest things in nature. On the other hand, you can be irritated by the most soothing things if your mind is on fire.

What is the ideal word count for a descriptive nature essay?

The ideal word count for a descriptive essay is between 800 to 1000 words. Students should aim for five paragraphs with one each for the introduction and conclusion and the remaining three for the main body. When word count is assigned by the instructors, it is best to stay in that range.

Final Thoughts

Nature is one of the most recurring topics that students will find in their essay classes. It can mold and transform by changing only a handful or sometimes even a single variable from the lot. Still, many novice writers find it hard to connect to the essence of the topic and even fail at formulating a good title. In this blog, we have covered the basics of descriptive essay writing, including four examples of nature writing in different scenarios so that students can take inspiration from them and incorporate them into their essays. We have also shared some tips for nature writing in descriptive essays so that they can start and finish at a high.

For complete guidance on descriptive essay writing on nature, feel free to consult this resource at any time!

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descriptive essay on landscape

Describing landscapes

by  Kate Woodford

john finney photography/Moment/Getty

Have you ever wanted to describe an area of the countryside but found you didn’t have the right words? If so, we’ll fix that this week with a look at words and phrases that we use to describe different landscapes .

To start with the most basic description, an area of land that is mainly covered with grass or trees is often described as green : There are so few green spaces in the city. An area that is especially green, in a way that is attractive, may also be described as lush : lush green valleys . A more literary word for this is verdant : All around her were verdant meadows.

Meanwhile, a landscape that has few or no plants because there is so little rain may be described as arid : Few animals can survive in this arid desert landscape. (A technical description for an area that has little rain but is not completely dry is semi-arid : a semi-arid zone. )

Land that is extremely dry because rain has not fallen for a long time is often said to be parched : parched earth/fields. Sun-baked , meanwhile, describes land that is hard and dry because it has received so little rain for so long: The sun-baked earth was full of cracks.

Other words describe the shape of the land. A hilly area has lots of hills: The countryside round here is very hilly. The phrase rolling hills is often used in descriptions of attractive landscapes with many gentle hills: Everywhere you look, there are rolling hills. The rather literary word undulating is also used to describe this type of landscape: This picturesque village is surrounded by undulating hills.

Meanwhile, a landscape with bigger hills – mountains – is mountainous : a mountainous region . If those mountains have snow on the top, they are often referred to as snow-capped : a snow-capped mountain range.

Still with the shape of the land, craggy describes an area with lots of rocks sticking out: a craggy coastline. Rugged is very similar, describing an area of land that is wild and not flat: These photographs really capture the rugged landscape of the region.

Of course, not all landscapes are green and hilly. An area may be flat . If there are no trees, hills or other interesting features, it may appear rather featureless : It was a grey, featureless landscape.

Two negative adjectives that are sometimes used to describe featureless landscapes are bleak and desolate . Both are used for areas of the countryside that seem empty and cold, with nothing pleasant to look at: The house stands on a bleak hilltop.

Another adjective sometimes used in this context is windswept . A windswept area of land has no trees or other high structures to protect it from the wind: The picture shows a desolate, windswept landscape.

When were you last out in the countryside? How would you describe the landscape?

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46 thoughts on “ Describing landscapes ”

I was born in the countryside so my village is surrounded by beautiful green landscapes. It’s situated near the delta of the river Volga which is the longest river in Europe. Though a little bit far from the river there are sun-baked steppes. Some people find them featureless but I think every place on the Earth has its own charm. You can even see barkhan dunes there. It’s an amazing view. Last month I spent my holidays in Phuket, Thailand. It has so wonderful hilly landscape. There are so many jaw-dropping views there. It’s worth to be seen. Thank you for your posts! They all are very helpful!

That’s a very nice descriptive piece, Ekaterina. Thank you for that!

I agree with you, Ekaterina there is no place on the earth without a special way of charming.

Lush green vegetation from the Isle of Spice, is what I am looking at when I look out the window.

Lucky you! Sounds fabulous.

You got a point there

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My live in Cauquenes a little town in Chile , this place is surrounded by trees and lush green areas, rather verdant meadows, my country also has the most arid desert in the world “Atacama Desert” amazing place to visit; for the most part of the center of the country we can find a semi-arid zone, mind-blowing beaches, rivers and rolling hills all converging in the central zone (which I live) quite mountainous by the way.

Thank you for the help with my vocabulary. regards.

You’re very welcome, Felipe! Thank you for the lovely description.

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When I go to Tarhona, my countryside, the green spaces (the farms) in front of my eyes, the blue spaces (the sky) above my head and the golden spaces (the sand dune) behind my back is the poem that makes me dance with the pleasure of colours.

I live in a small town and like most of our inhabitants I also live in a block of flats. It doesn’t sound interesting at all but when I look out of the window I can see Black Sea coastline, I can sea its “mood” changing, its melting sunset and from the other window I can see mountains and today they are snow-capped they seem to exhale frosty air on our town. When I see these views I feel the eternity of life and nothing can trouble me.

I live in the main part of the city in Chennai, Tamil Nadu, India. I hardly find green spaces in the city. But God’s grace there is a park nearby where one can find some trees.

I used to live in a mountainous city, Amman – Jordan. Around 3 millions people is living on a 7 mountains. Transportation is not that easy in the city, in which lots of people still using long concrete stairs to move.

I am from Ipele in Nigeria, a beautiful small town surrounded by hills. Everywhere you turn your eyes, you see rolling hills so green and full of life. Should you move towards the eastern part of the town, you will encounter different species of trees hanging on the hills in a way that one will find it difficult to explain the friendship between nature and creation. Running slowing is a stream that runs from up one of the hills to form a pool at the lower valley. The pool is known as Ashiyan. At the other side and near the pool is another hill from under which a small spring do come out to form a small pool called Lala. The two pools are together but their water do not mix. Lala’s water is so crystal clear that people mostly take it for drinking while that of Ashiyan is brownish. It was rumored that if the two waters are put in the same glass bottle, the bottle will break. A remarkable observation is that the butterflies playing on the two pools are equally different as well. Colourful butterflies can be seen on Ashiyan while only white butterflies are seen on Lala. The breeze in the area is always lovingly cool no matter how hot the heat of the sunshine. Adding to the scene of the place are the melodious and beautiful sounds coming from the birds on the surrounding trees. The place possesses its own remarkable and special way of charming that is so striking.

lovely description

I live in Noida, India and it has very few green spaces left due to rapid urbanisation and industrialization. However, we can get to see lush in few parks but that is not sufficient for a healthy environment.

I live in hilly area, which could be described as countryside. The town is surrounded by trees and wood. There is many rolling hill and lush green landscapes.

please write about describing wind movement ( like windy day …) and also for rivers. Thankyou for this post . It is very helpful

Hi Meetu. Thanks for your nice comment. This blog might be of interest? https://dictionaryblog.cambridge.org/2017/04/26/sweltering-torrential-and-gusty-interesting-words-for-talking-about-weather/

Thank you very much for your reply. It is very helpful for us.

It is a very profitable blog post for me. I’ve enjoyed reading this. It is very informative and useful post.

Region where i live is featureless. i would love to reside near hilly or mountainous areas.however,in my country there is a huge lack of green spaces.

Hey i want to learn how to describe a landscape(which ever it is) in the most catching way. Can you help me out?

Reblogged this on NaN .

I was trying to do Geography homework and this didnt help at all.

Thank you very much, that was interesting !

Could you make an article about words describing the beauty of landscapes, like bucolic (or pastoral), and with adjectives or adverbs who help to imagine this beauty, like “as far as the eye can see”, please ? Thank you ! 😉

My hometown is a small village located in southeast of China where hilly spaces are everywhere covered with lush green forest. Far away from bustling city, inhabitants are living a slow-paced life-style here. Geographically, there is no mountain, no particularly worth-mentioning landscape. It would be a generally a flat and featureless land if it were without green spaces. Characterizing by a multitude of elderly people as the young are seeking prosperous in big city, my hometown has became a place without vitality.

Very helpful.

Dear Kate, Thank you for sharing the knowledge which is of great help for me.

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Thanks for your good explaination of landscapes

You’re very welcome!

Thanks for the lesson how I can express my emotions when I see different landscapes.

One of the most charming and picturesque places I’ve ever visited is by far the legendary Peles Castle, located nearby Sinaia, a mountainous Romania’s region. Well-known for being the first castle in Europe on having electricity, central heating, an elevator and even a mobile glass ceiling, among other innovative things, it’s surrounded by glamorous and lush gardens full of fantastic statues and vantage points with breathtaking views. If you want to escape the daily pressures of life, enjoying fascinatingly verdant and unspoilt places, Peles Castle and its undulating hills is definitely the one I’d recommend visiting. Exceeds all visitor’s expectations.

Well, Mihaela, you’ve made me really want to visit it! It sounds fantastic. Best wishes from Cambridge.

This is the way to learn English writing! This article is gem! Are there more articles like this? Thank you Kate!

Hi! Thank you so much! We haven’t written any more specifically on this theme, but we publish one every week (on a Wednesday) so do keep checking in. Also, you can search for posts containing specific words using the search facility on the right. Best wishes from Cambridge!

What an informative article never knew there were so many different ways to say landscaping. thanks again

Thanks, Hector! I’m so glad you found it interesting.

I live in a extraordinary place and wow. The hills are hilly and greens are greeny.

Thank you! It’s very useful!

Thanks you so much

I live in an urban area, with countless block storeys and not mush spacing between them. The landscape is more or less a featureless and craggy. Looking across the horizon, there are many trees across and rolling hills at the far ends.

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20 Descriptive Paragraph Examples: Mastering the Art of Vivid Writing

Descriptive writing is a powerful tool in a writer's arsenal. It helps paint a picture in the reader's mind, making the content more engaging and memorable. Whether you're a student, a professional writer, or someone looking to improve their writing skills, understanding how to craft compelling descriptive paragraphs is essential.

Descriptive writing is a powerful tool in a writer's arsenal. It helps paint a picture in the reader's mind, making the content more engaging and memorable. Whether you're a student, a professional writer, or someone looking to improve their writing skills, understanding how to craft compelling descriptive paragraphs is essential. In this article, we'll dive into the nuances of descriptive writing, provide 20 unique descriptive paragraph examples, and answer some common questions. Our focus keyword is "descriptive paragraph examples," which we'll explore in depth.

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Why Descriptive Writing Matters

Why Descriptive Writing Matters

Descriptive writing isn't just about detailing what something looks like. It's about engaging all the senses to create a vivid image. Good descriptive writing can transport readers to another place, evoke emotions, and leave a lasting impression. This is crucial in various forms of writing, including:

  • Creative Writing: Descriptive paragraphs bring stories to life.
  • Academic Writing: Detailed descriptions clarify complex concepts.
  • Marketing Content: Vivid descriptions make products and services more appealing.

The Elements of a Great Descriptive Paragraph

A successful descriptive paragraph includes several key elements:

  • Vivid Imagery: Use colorful and specific details.
  • Sensory Details: Engage all five senses to fully immerse the reader.
  • Figurative Language: Metaphors, similes, and personification add depth.
  • Specificity: Avoid vague descriptions; be precise and concrete.

20 Descriptive Paragraph Examples: Enhanced and Detailed

Descriptive writing is an art that involves vivid imagery and sensory details. Here are 20 enhanced and detailed descriptive paragraph examples to inspire your writing.

1. Tranquil Beach Scene

The sun sank slowly behind the horizon, casting a golden glow that kissed the tranquil beach. Waves whispered softly against the shore, their rhythmic dance soothing the soul. The salty air mingled with the faint aroma of coconut from a nearby vendor's sunscreen, creating a comforting scent. Seagulls cawed lazily, their calls adding to the serene ambiance. The sky transformed into a canvas of brilliant pinks and oranges, reflecting off the rippling water and creating a mesmerizing spectacle.

2. Bustling Market

The market thrummed with life as vendors loudly touted their fresh produce, their voices blending into a harmonious cacophony. Stalls overflowed with vibrant fruits and vegetables, each pile a rainbow of colors. The air was thick with the mingled scents of exotic spices, fresh herbs, and sizzling street food. Shoppers navigated the narrow aisles, their laughter and haggling creating a lively soundtrack. The sun cast a warm glow over the scene, illuminating the vivid tapestry of goods and people.

3. Autumn Forest

The forest was a riot of autumn colors, with leaves in every shade of red, orange, and yellow. They crunched underfoot, releasing a woody, earthy scent. The crisp air was filled with the soft rustling of leaves and the occasional chirp of birds. Sunlight filtered through the canopy, casting dappled shadows on the forest floor. A gentle breeze whispered through the trees, carrying the promise of approaching winter.

4. Cozy Fireplace

Nestled in the corner, the fireplace crackled and popped, its flames dancing and casting a warm, flickering glow across the room. The scent of burning wood mingled with the sweet aroma of a cinnamon-scented candle. Soft, plush armchairs invited relaxation, their cushions embracing anyone who sat down. The faint sound of jazz music played in the background, adding to the cozy, intimate atmosphere.

5. Rainy Day

Raindrops tapped persistently against the window, creating a soothing, rhythmic melody. The sky was a uniform shade of gray, and the air was cool and fresh, carrying the distinctive scent of rain-soaked earth. Puddles formed on the sidewalk, reflecting the muted light of the overcast sky. The occasional rumble of thunder added a dramatic undertone to the peaceful scene, while the gentle patter of rain provided a calming backdrop.

6. Mountain Hike

The mountain trail wound through dense forests of towering pines, their needles creating a soft, fragrant carpet underfoot. The air was crisp and invigorating, filled with the scent of pine resin and fresh earth. Occasional clearings offered breathtaking vistas of distant peaks, their snow-capped summits glistening in the sunlight. Birds soared overhead, their songs echoing through the trees. The distant sound of a waterfall added to the sense of adventure and natural wonder.

7. Spring Garden

The garden was a symphony of color and fragrance, a testament to spring's renewal. Tulips and daffodils swayed in the gentle breeze, their petals a vivid array of reds, yellows, and pinks. The air was filled with the sweet scent of blooming flowers, mingling with the earthy aroma of freshly turned soil. Bees buzzed industriously from blossom to blossom, while butterflies fluttered gracefully through the air. A stone path wound through the garden, inviting leisurely strolls and quiet contemplation.

8. Crowded City Street

The city street was alive with activity, a bustling hub of motion and sound. Cars honked impatiently, their drivers navigating through the crowded thoroughfare. Neon signs flashed brightly, advertising restaurants, theaters, and shops. The air was filled with the scent of street food—grilled meats, roasted chestnuts, and exotic spices—mingling with the ever-present smell of exhaust fumes. Pedestrians hurried along the sidewalks, their faces a blur of determination and distraction. Despite the chaos, there was an underlying rhythm, a heartbeat that defined the city's character.

9. Peaceful Meadow

The meadow stretched out like a green ocean, dotted with wildflowers in every conceivable color. Butterflies fluttered from bloom to bloom, their delicate wings adding splashes of color to the vibrant landscape. The air was fresh and sweet, filled with the scent of grass and wildflowers. A gentle breeze rustled the leaves of nearby trees, adding a whispering undertone to the peaceful scene. Birds sang melodiously, their songs creating a harmonious symphony of nature.

10. Snowy Winter Day

Snowflakes drifted softly from the sky, blanketing the world in a pristine layer of white. The air was crisp and cold, each breath visible in the frosty air. Trees stood tall and silent, their branches heavy with snow. The only sound was the crunch of footsteps in the snow, creating a serene and magical winter wonderland. The scent of pine and the faint aroma of wood smoke added to the festive atmosphere, promising warmth and comfort.

11. Desert Sunset

The desert was bathed in the warm, golden light of the setting sun. Sand dunes stretched as far as the eye could see, their curves highlighted by the fading light. The air was hot and dry, with the scent of sagebrush and dust. As the sun dipped below the horizon, the sky transformed into a breathtaking palette of oranges, pinks, and purples. The stillness of the desert amplified the beauty of the moment, creating a sense of peace and wonder.

12. Evening in the City

As night fell, the city came alive with lights and sounds. Streets were illuminated by countless neon signs and streetlights, casting a warm glow on the bustling thoroughfares. The hum of traffic and the buzz of conversation filled the air. Street performers entertained passersby with music, magic tricks, and acrobatics, adding to the vibrant atmosphere. The scent of food from nearby restaurants wafted through the air, making the city feel alive and inviting.

13. Serene Lake

The lake was a mirror, perfectly reflecting the surrounding mountains and trees. The water was calm, disturbed only by the occasional ripple from a fish breaking the surface. The air was fresh and clean, filled with the scent of pine and the distant aroma of a campfire. The gentle lapping of water against the shore added a soothing soundtrack to the natural beauty. It was a place of peace and tranquility, where one could escape the hustle and bustle of everyday life.

14. Night Sky

The night sky was a canvas of stars, each one twinkling like a tiny diamond. The Milky Way stretched across the sky, a faint band of light in the darkness. The air was cool and still, with the scent of night-blooming flowers adding to the sense of wonder. Crickets chirped softly, their song a gentle accompaniment to the celestial display. It was a reminder of the vastness and beauty of the universe, and the smallness of our place within it.

15. Busy Coffee Shop

The coffee shop buzzed with activity, a hive of energy and motion. Baristas moved quickly behind the counter, expertly crafting lattes, cappuccinos, and espressos. The rich aroma of freshly brewed coffee filled the air, mingling with the sweet scent of pastries and baked goods. Customers chatted animatedly, their conversations creating a lively and welcoming atmosphere. Soft jazz music played in the background, adding to the cozy ambiance.

16. Rainforest

The rainforest was alive with sound and color. Birds called out from the canopy, their songs a vibrant tapestry of notes. The air was thick with humidity, filled with the earthy scent of damp soil and decaying leaves. Lush greenery surrounded everything, with vibrant flowers adding splashes of color. The buzz of insects and the distant roar of a waterfall created a symphony of nature. Sunlight filtered through the dense foliage, casting dappled shadows on the forest floor.

17. Quiet Library

The library was a haven of quiet and contemplation. Tall shelves lined with books created a labyrinth of knowledge and stories. The scent of old paper and leather bindings filled the air, creating a comforting aroma. Soft light filtered through large windows, illuminating the reading nooks and study areas. The only sounds were the faint rustle of pages turning and the occasional whisper of a patron seeking assistance. It was a place where time seemed to stand still, offering a refuge from the outside world.

18. Market at Dawn

The market at dawn was a flurry of activity, as vendors set up their stalls and prepared for the day ahead. The air was cool and crisp, filled with the scent of fresh bread, ripe fruit, and blooming flowers. Early risers moved purposefully from stall to stall, their conversations and laughter adding to the vibrant energy. The sun began to rise, casting a warm glow over the scene and illuminating the colorful array of goods. It was a time of anticipation and promise, as the market came to life.

19. Coastal Village

The coastal village was quaint and charming, with fishing boats bobbing gently in the harbor. Their colorful hulls reflected in the clear, calm water. The air was salty and fresh, with the distant sound of seagulls and waves adding to the serene atmosphere. Narrow, cobblestone streets wound through the village, lined with charming cottages and small shops. The scent of freshly baked bread and sea air created a comforting and inviting ambiance.

20. Flower Shop

The flower shop was a burst of color and fragrance, a sanctuary of beauty. Bouquets of roses, lilies, and daisies filled the space, their petals creating a vibrant tapestry. The air was filled with the sweetscent of flowers, mingling with the earthy aroma of potting soil and greenery. Each bouquet was a work of art, carefully arranged to showcase the natural beauty of the blooms. Customers moved slowly through the shop, admiring the vibrant displays and selecting the perfect arrangements. The soft hum of conversation and the gentle rustle of leaves added to the peaceful and inviting atmosphere, making it a haven for anyone seeking a moment of beauty and tranquility.

FAQs About Descriptive Paragraphs

Q: What is a descriptive paragraph? A: A descriptive paragraph is a section of writing that uses vivid details and sensory language to create a picture in the reader's mind, engaging their senses and emotions.

Q: Why are descriptive paragraphs important? A: Descriptive paragraphs enhance the reader's experience, making the content more engaging, memorable, and impactful. They help the reader visualize the scene and connect emotionally with the content.

Q: How can I improve my descriptive writing? A: To improve your descriptive writing:

  • Focus on sensory details to engage all five senses.
  • Use figurative language like metaphors and similes.
  • Be specific and avoid vague descriptions.
  • Practice regularly and read descriptive works by skilled authors for inspiration.

Q: What are some common mistakes in descriptive writing? A: Common mistakes in descriptive writing include:

  • Being too vague or general in descriptions.
  • Overusing adjectives and not incorporating other parts of speech.
  • Neglecting to engage all the senses.
  • Failing to revise and edit for clarity and impact.

Key Takeaways

  • Descriptive paragraphs create vivid images and engage the reader's senses.
  • Use specific details, sensory language, and figurative expressions to enhance your writing.
  • Practice regularly to refine your descriptive writing skills.
  • Refer to descriptive paragraph examples for inspiration and guidance.

Mastering descriptive writing can significantly enhance your ability to connect with readers and convey your message effectively. By incorporating vivid imagery, sensory details, and precise language, you can create engaging and memorable content. Use these 20 descriptive paragraph examples as a reference to inspire your own writing. With practice and attention to detail, you'll soon find yourself crafting descriptive paragraphs that captivate and transport your readers to different worlds.

descriptive essay on landscape

Descriptive Writing A-Level Example: The Mountain

This is a piece completed recently by one of my students for the Cambridge (CIE) A-Level English exam (Paper 2: Writing). It is suitable for anyone studying creative writing at a higher level — GCSE (10th Grade) and above, particularly on the following exam boards: AQA, CIE, OCR, Edexcel, WJEC / Eduqas, CCEA.

The piece attained a B grade, but it has great potential and with a bit of work could have achieved an A. I asked the student to write feedback below to give a sense of the grade, as well as suggested improvements for how to attain a higher level next time. You’ll see a breakdown of his writing process and thoughts behind how he uses language.

Thanks for reading! If you find this page useful, you can take a look at our full Basic Descriptive Writing course ; Advanced Descriptive Writing course , and other English Language and Literature courses

The Question:

Write a descriptive piece called The Mountain. In your writing, create a sense of atmosphere, and focus on colors and sounds to help your reader imagine the scene.

The Answer: (Descriptive Writing A-Level Example)

The mountain.

It had been a long hard trek across the sludgy path, my footfalls producing rhythmic squelches. A warm pitiful breath escaped my mouth and struggled against the unrelenting breeze. My eyes wept from the wind, without sadness, the tears quickly drying but no less pained. I had managed to stray unwittingly from the path. My mind blank, I had chanced upon a vast expanse of open land. Vaguely, I recalled how I had got there, how I awoke in perspiration merely hours earlier, my T-shirt soaked through. If I had wrung it, I’m sure water would have trickled out, so sodden it was.

When I eventually peeled myself off the bed, it was then the idea had taken root, to venture out for a spirited walk. Grabbing my staff and closing the door after me, I walked on mechanically, permitting the crisp air to enter my lungs and liven my senses. For a long time, I gazed listlessly at my traipsing feet, neglecting to survey the path ahead. Soon, when I glanced up, I had drunk in the formidable sight of a tall mountain stood gargantuan in the distance.

The sky, slate grey and heavy, bore the promise of rain. A knot of cloud hung low and obscured the mountain’s peak. It should have unnerved me, but it didn’t. I was Ill-dressed and ill-prepared, yet a dogged stubbornness coursed through my every fibre. I firmly decided I would task myself to climb it. It was as though I forged onward like a weary soldier, going into battle for the very first time.

As I neared the foot of the mountain, such was its mass I could no longer see sky. Pausing at the base of it, I noticed that the wind had abated somewhat, and I felt a brief flash of renewed confidence. Glancing up its steep face my eyes scanned the wild, rocky terrain, peppered with tufts of grass and high reeds.

No discernible path appeared to etch through it, which led me to believe that nobody of sound mind would be foolish enough to scale it. Nobody as foolish as me at least. Warding off the temptation to turn back, I placed my trusty staff before me and carefully distributed my weight across the unstable ground. With no visible path to speak of I lunged forward and begun to climb, praising each successfully placed step as I slowly advanced. Reaching roughly a meter high, I felt the first cool drop of rain blotch my forehead. It caused me to glance up instantly at the sky with trepidation, but before I would be greeted by an onslaught of raindrops, I decided to forge on undeterred.

A violent rush of wind suddenly rose beneath me, causing the hood of my coat to blow clean over my head. Maybe it was a sign, I thought. Nature’s way of telling me that I should prepare for the inevitable drenching. But I did my best to not entertain such thoughts. Instead, my mind cast back to the days of my youth. I recollected the numerous occasions I had ventured into the woods with my older brother. Together we would seek out the tallest climbable tree. He would goad and pressure me to reach the furthest branch no matter the risk of danger. His voice  was always close behind, providing a safety net in case I fell. I never did, but where was his voice now?

When the rain came, it had been roughly an hour since I last looked down. The terrain had gotten steeper, so much so that my staff was rendered useless and left me all but hugging onto the slope for dear life. There were times when I froze, clutching myself to the earth, breathing in mud and stone, feeling as though I had tasted time itself. The rain came down in sheets, muddying the very soil my hands struggled to claw into as I ascended. Why had I bothered? I asked myself. Don’t worry just keep going, keep climbing. I imagined my brother’s voice not that far behind.

Student’s Feedback:

There are two examples in this passage where the language draws visual depictions. Firstly, in describing the colour of the sky as ‘slate-grey’, likening it to a shade taken from a type of stone, successfully transmits the image of a dark sky into the reader’s mind. Furthermore, the adjective ‘slate’ has connotations of hardness and coldness, create an intense atmosphere and a sense of difficulty for the protagonist. The use of compound adjectives through the hyphen also enhances the intensity of the visual image.

The second refers to the protagonist’s determination. He ‘forged onward like a weary soldier, going into battle for the very first time.’ This conjures a feeling of vulnerability for the reader. It presents the idea that the protagonist is venturing into the unknown, with unforeseen dangers ahead, creating palpable suspense.

Voice/Tone:

An underlying sense of foreboding runs consistently throughout the passage. There is a distinct atmosphere enveloping the language that is earthy and rich. Much of this is derived from the detailed scene description. This places the reader directly into the mood and atmosphere of the text. This is portrayed in the depiction of physical hardship, endured by the protagonist. For example, ‘My eyes wept from the wind, without sadness, the tears quickly drying but no less pained.’ The line also contains a subtle hint of irony, the association between tears being linked to sadness. However, in this case it is the harshness of nature that is bringing about the shedding of tears.

Another example of ‘mood’ and ‘feel’ evident in the text can be found in the following line: ‘There were times when I froze, clutching myself to the earth, breathing in mud and stone, feeling as though I had tasted time itself.’ While ‘mud’ and ‘stone’ represent nature, they are also symbolically linked to the ancient age of the mountain and present the idea ‘tasting time’ as though it were a tangible thing. These linguistic techniques of tying nature to feeling, exist to immerse the reader within the voice and tone of the text.

The continuous verbs ‘clutching’ and ‘breathing’ … continuous motion / enduring difficulty / dynamic and physical enhance the sense of struggle / highlight the fragility of man in comparison to all-powerful nature.

Perspective/Structure:

The narrative uses first-person through the featured protagonist and unfolds in past-tense. It describes events in a continuous stream of action. However, there are two moments where the action shifts to a series of flashbacks. In the first one, we learn of the protagonist awaking from his bed: ‘I awoke in perspiration merely hours earlier, my T-shirt soaked through,’. In the second, he revisits thoughts of childhood: ‘I recollected the numerous occasions I had ventured into the woods with my older brother.’ Despite these two time-shifts, the throughline of the story commences from the moment the protagonist witnesses the mountain upon his travels, along the path, to lastly attempting to scale it, finding himself stuck upon its steep face.

Features to include for my next creative piece:

  • Multiple characters
  • A variation of sentences, including one word.
  • A specific moment of conflict
  • Range of paragraph lengths
  • Range of punctuation > ! ? : ; ‘ “” ‘ () …

Teacher Feedback:

GRADE: 18/25

72 % > B grade

Mark scheme used .

  • Effective expression, with a range of language, including some complex structures and less common lexis
  • A few minor errors which do not impede communication
  • Logical organisation of text; developed ideas in an effective manner
  • Good achievement of text; content is relevant

Overall, I believed the last 2 sentences could have been more refined, more poignant, and expressive. The story at this point ends rather abruptly in comparison to the rest. This demonstrates better fluency and reads more elegantly.

However, the earlier paragraphs clearly demonstrate strong use of language. This is visually expressive, symbolic/poetic, and carries a distinct tone. There is much intrigue and suspense to be enjoyed, which in turn engages the reader.

Read more descriptive writing tips here: https://scrbblyblog.com/2022/10/26/spooky-atmosphere-writing/

Thanks for reading! If you find this page useful, you can take a look at our full Basic Descriptive Writing course ; Advanced Descriptive Writing course , and other English Language and Literature courses .

Or subscribe to scrbbly and access all of our courses for as little as £5 a month, related posts.

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3.5: Descriptive Essays

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  • Page ID 107758

  • Kathryn Crowther et al.
  • Georgia Perimeter College via GALILEO Open Learning Materials

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Writing a Description Essay

Choosing a subject is the first step in writing a description essay. Once you have chosen the person, place, or object you want to describe, your challenge is to write an effective thesis statement to guide your essay. The remainder of your essay describes your subject in a way that best expresses your thesis. Remember, you should have a strong sense of how you will organize your essay. Choose a strategy and stick to it. Every part of your essay should use vivid sensory details. The more you can appeal to your readers’ senses, the more they will be engaged in your essay. You can read two sample essays at the end of this section.

Sample Thesis Statement

Although Minnesota may seem drab and cold to outsiders, natives of the state find it a wonderful place to live.

We can see in this thesis statement that the writer will attempt to show the aspects of Minnesota that make it a great place to live. After detailing a thesis statement, you should come up with a list of sensory words that provide vivid detail and support the thesis. You may start by thinking about the five senses. How does your particular place look, smell, feel, taste, and sound like? How can you best describe these senses so the reader feels what you feel? By organizing the elements of descriptive language into easier to handle sections, like the five senses, you are able to more specifically engage in what elements of the description are most useful.

Order of Presentation

The writer in this case could choose to present the positive aspects of Minnesota in terms of the seasons and weather changes. The details could be presented linearly, starting with spring and going through the winter, highlighting the aspects of each season that most closely support the thesis, that Minnesota is a great place to live.

Prior to starting the essay, give some thought to the audience of your piece. Who is going to read the essay, and what effect would you like it to have upon the readers? An awareness of audience is important in choosing the level of formality you take with your writing. Knowing your audience will also help you distinguish which details to include throughout your essay. Assume that your audience knows very little or nothing about your subject matter, and include details that may seem obvious to you.

Example Audience: In this particular essay, the writer wants to show an outsider to the state why Minnesota natives are so happy to live there. The essay should help break down stereotypes for those outsiders about Minnesota’s cold weather and apparent drabness. Because the essay is designed for those who do not live in Minnesota, and maybe have never been there, it is important to include details about the state that may seem obvious to a native.

With the preparatory work complete, it is time now to begin writing your essay. Use your thesis statement to begin to construct an introductory paragraph. The introduction should set up the basis for your essay, and the thesis statement should state its purpose.

Example Introduction

Many who have not traveled to the state of Minnesota only hear of its cold weather and boring reputation. They are sure missing out on the great opportunities that Minnesota affords. Each season offers different senses that native Minnesotans and tourists know and love. Although Minnesota may seem drab and cold to outsiders, natives of the state find it a wonderful place to live.

With the introduction complete, it is time to start constructing the body paragraphs of your essay. Each body paragraph should have a central theme in itself, and that theme should be represented in a topic sentence. Consequently, each sentence of the paragraph should relate to and support the topic sentence. The body paragraphs are where the majority of the details should be given. When writing the first draft of your descriptive essay, include as many details as is reasonably possible. You can always eliminate the ones that do not serve the essay as well when you are revising your draft. In the case of the Minnesota nature essay, we have decided to set up the body paragraphs in terms of season, starting with spring.

Example Body Paragraph

Spring in Minnesota brings new life to the state after the long winter season. The rain washes the landscape clean, leaving its fresh aroma for all to enjoy. The flowers soak up the golden sun’s rays and begin to show their vibrant colors. The first birds can be seen and heard throughout the woods and fields, telling their stories in beautiful songs. The lakes begin to show their glossy finish as the ice melts away slowly under the heat of the season.

With the body paragraphs complete, it is time to bring the essay to a close with the conclusion. The conclusion should draw a conclusion based on what has been presented throughout the body of the essay. It needs to return to the thesis, but not in an overt way. The conclusion should give the reader a final sense of what the essay was meant to portray. Remember that there should not be any new material introduced in the conclusion, and the way it is worded should give the reader a sense of finality.

Example Conclusion

The variety of activities and distinct seasons found in Minnesota reveal diverse beauty of this state. As one considers the benefits of each season, it becomes clearer why so many native Minnesotans are content with their home state. Minnesota is truly a wonderful place to live.

With the essay complete, it is time to reread and revise your essay (also see revision sections of this textbook). Read your first draft and pinpoint all of the descriptor words you used. If possible, go back and add more after the ones you already used in the essay. If you can, read your essay aloud to a friend and have him/her tell you what images are vivid and what images need more development. Rework any images that are cloudy with more descriptions. Also, check to see if your descriptions have made use of all of the five senses: sound, smell, texture, sight, and taste. Repeat these steps as many times as necessary until you are happy with your product.

Sample Descriptive Essays

America's Pastime

As the sun hits my face and I breathe in the fresh air, I temporarily forget that I am at a sporting event. But, when I open my eyes and look around, I am reminded of all things American. From the national anthem to the international players on the field, all the sights and sounds of a baseball game come together like a slice of Americana pie.

First, the entrance turnstiles click and clank, and then a hallway of noise bombards me. All the fans’ voices coalesce in a chorus of sound, rising to a humming clamor. The occasional, “Programs, get your programs, here!” jumps out through the hum to get my attention. I navigate my way through the crowded walkways of the stadium, moving to the right of some people, and to the left of others, I eventually find the section number where my seat is located. As I approach my seat I hear the announcer’s voice echo around the ball park, “Attention fans. In honor of our country, please remove your caps for the singing of the national anthem.” His deep voice echoes around each angle of the park, and every word is heard again and again. The crowd sings and hums “The Star-Spangled Banner,” and I feel a surprising amount of national pride through the voices. I take my seat as the umpire shouts, “Play ball!” and the game begins.

In the fifth inning of the game, I decide to find a concessions stand. Few tastes are as American as hot dogs and soda pop, and they cannot be missed at a ball game. The smell of hot dogs carries through the park, down every aisle, and inside every concourse. They are always as unhealthy as possible, dripping in grease, while the buns are soft and always too small for the dog. The best way to wash down the Ball Park Frank is with a large soda pop, so I order both. Doing my best to balance the cold pop in one hand and the wrapped-up dog in the other, I find the nearest condiments stand to load up my hot dog. A dollop of bright green relish and chopped onions, along with two squirts of the ketchup and mustard complete the dog. As I continue the balancing act between the loaded hot dog and pop back to my seat, a cheering fan bumps into my pop hand. The pop splashes out of the cup and all over my shirt, leaving me drenched. I make direct eye contact with the man who bumped into me. He looks me in the eye, looks at my shirt, and tells me how sorry he is. I just shake my head and keep walking. “It’s all just part of the experience,” I tell myself.

Before I am able to get back to my seat, I hear the crack of a bat, followed by an uproar from the crowd. Everyone is standing, clapping, and cheering. I missed a home run. I find my aisle and ask everyone to excuse me as I slip past them to my seat. “Excuse me. Excuse me. Thank you. Thank you. Sorry,” is all I can say as I inch past each fan. Halfway to my seat I can hear discarded peanut shells crunch beneath my feet, and each step is marked with a pronounced crunch.

When I finally get to my seat I realize it is the start of the seventh inning stretch. I quickly eat my hot dog and wash it down with what is left of my soda pop. The organ starts playing and everyone begins to sing “Take Me Out to the Ball Game.” While singing the song, putting my arms around friends and family with me, I watch all the players taking the field. It is wonderful to see the overwhelming number of players on one team from around the world: Japan, the Dominican Republic, the United States, Canada, and Venezuela. I cannot help but feel a bit of national pride at this realization. Seeing the international representation on the field reminds me of the ways that Americans, though from many different backgrounds and places, still come together under common ideals. For these reasons and for the whole experience in general, going to a Major League Baseball game is the perfect way to glimpse a slice of Americana.

Student Essay

In the following student essay, notice how the writer uses sensory details to describe not only the visual appearance of Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr.’s tomb, but also the experience of visiting such a historically significant and emotionally moving monument. Pay particular attention to the organization of the description; how does the author move us around the monument and describe its characteristics? Is it effective?

Professor Smith

English 1101

11 June 2014

The King’s Tomb

The water is always so beautiful, a hypnotic shade of baby blue, with a few autumn colored leaves floating in the ripples made by the wind. This isn’t a natural body of water. No wildlife swim in the shallow waves, but this water is as full of life as any ocean. In the middle of what is fittingly called the Reflecting Pool lies the closest thing African Americans have ever had to royalty. Here lie the remains of Dr. Martin Luther King and Coretta Scott King.

Nestled between the King Center for Nonviolent Social Change and the original Ebenezer Baptist Church is a beautiful white marble monument, warmly bathed in the lights circling the tomb of our late civil rights leaders. Following Dr. King’s assassination in April 1968, he was first interred at South View Cemetery, a final resting place largely reserved for African Americans during that period. It took nearly a decade before he was exhumed and placed in the beautiful ivory stone structure that he now shares with his beloved wife Coretta. The tomb, erected in 1977, sits within the south end of the Reflecting Pool. Seemingly suspended on the bright blue water, the tomb displays scriptures that only capture a small portion of the legacy left by these great leaders. Engraved on Dr. King’s portion reads, “Free at last, Free at last, Thank God Almighty I’m free at last!” from his pivotal “I Have a Dream” speech given during the March on Washington in 1963. I can’t help but attempt to recite the mantra in my head with the same bravado and conviction as Dr. King had when he gave the speech over fifty years ago. While the saying is a beautiful incantation, fit for a King, the cost at which that freedom was attained is still heartbreaking.

In a scene reminiscent of Romeo and Juliet, Mrs. Coretta Scott King, who passed away in January 2006 after a prolonged illness, lies next to her slain husband. For a short period following her death Mrs. King was interred in a smaller yet equally beautiful tomb directly across from her late husband. Spectacular floral arrangements surrounded her tomb as scores of mourners came from afar to pay their respects to the First Lady of the Civil Rights Movement. In November 2006, she was laid to rest in a beautiful new tomb aside her husband. The words “And now abide Faith, Hope, Love, These Three, but the greatest of these is Love,” emblazon her final resting place. No truer instance could describe her legacy.

Auburn Avenue, shrouded in darkness, is void of people aside from the few vagrants that aimlessly roam the streets. Heat from the Eternal Flame warms my back as I stare off into space. The brilliant glow of the LED lights strategically placed around the tomb and the amber flicker of the Eternal Flame are the only lights that seem to suit this moment. Kneeling as if I’m preparing to pray, I take a moment to reflect. Through my clenched eyes I can hear the soft splashes of the water, the gas fueled roar of the Eternal Flame. The ambient noise of car horns, traffic and construction fade to nearly a whisper. I envision the March on Washington. I can feel the sting of water hoses pelting my black skin. I can hear the sharp sonics of police dogs barking. The feeling is overwhelming. My eyelashes clump together from the tears winning their battle against my eyelids. Nearby is a place of worship, a place where anyone can still feel the spirit of past congregations, a place where the walls hold almost as much history as any Smithsonian exhibit.

Just a few feet away sits the original Ebenezer Baptist Church, a beautiful, rustic old building left largely intact from the days of Atlanta’s past. Walking inside is like stepping into a time warp, instantly sending you to the heart of the Civil Rights Movement. With the exception of a few strategically placed speakers, the church is left in its pure form. Dr. King’s voice echoes through wooden pews playing his famous “Drum Major” speech, given during his final sermon at Ebenezer on February 4, 1968. With closed eyes, I have difficulty telling what era I am in. Given with almost Machiavellian prediction and passion, ten minutes engulfed with his powerful words makes me feel as though I’ve been baptized, born again.

Surrounded with reminders of our history’s darkest time, this place brings me peace. There’s an aura in this place. A powerful spirit that infiltrates my conscience with thoughts of struggle, loss and freedom. The reality of this place forces my mind to reevaluate my own mortality. Even with the knowledge of how Dr. King was vilified, degraded, and executed, his death serves as a shining beacon of light. A lone ray of sun through the seemingly endless cloud of racism and intolerance. Coretta’s grace, beauty and resilience in the face of unspeakable tragedy and injustice is incomparable. Her social work and philanthropy should be an influence to women of all walks of life.

The legacy that Dr. and Mrs. King leave behind is an unfulfilled one. Equality in America has improved since Dr. King’s assassination but his dream is still unrealized. There is turmoil within the King family regarding funding and management of the King Memorial, leaving the future of this serene place uncertain. Engraved on the Stone of Hope, a newly completed Martin Luther King Jr. Memorial in Washington, D.C., reads, “Out of the Mountain of Despair, a Stone of Hope.” Although we still have a mountain to climb, The King’s Tomb is surely my Stone of Hope.

External Links

Checklist of Things to Consider ( https://tinyurl.com/y7zegezs ) when writing a description.

Susan Berne visits New York and describes her impressions in " Where Nothing Says Everything " ( https://tinyurl.com/yboc9m9s ), also called "Ground Zero." Another link to the story is here ( https://tinyurl.com/y99fchlw ).

Contributors and Attributions

Adapted from  Successful College Composition (Crowther et al.) . Sourced from  LibreTexts , licensed under  CC BY-NC-SA  .

Adapted from  Let's Get Writing (Browning, DeVries, Boylan, Kurtz and Burton) . Sourced from  LibreTexts , licensed under  CC BY-NC-SA  .

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Descriptive Essay

Descriptive Essay About Nature

Caleb S.

Write A Descriptive Essay About Nature With This Guide

Descriptive Essay About Nature

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Are you looking for ways to write a descriptive essay about nature?

Nature is abundant with topics to write about. Describing various aspects of nature can be a really eye-opening and refreshing experience.

But what if you don't know where to start? Don't worry, we've got the perfect guide to help you out!

This guide will provide you with all the tips you need to write an essay that captures the beauty of nature. You will also get to read some good essay samples. 

Let's get started!

Arrow Down

  • 1. Looking at The Basics of Descriptive Essay
  • 2. Tips on Writing a Descriptive Essay About Nature
  • 3. Descriptive Essays About Nature Examples

Looking at The Basics of Descriptive Essay

To start off, it's important to understand what a descriptive essay is. A descriptive essay is one in which you use words to describe a certain thing which can be a place, a person, food, etc. You can even write descriptive essays about yourself . In this case, the topic is nature.

The goal of writing a descriptive essay is to make your readers feel like they are experiencing the scene with you. This means that you need to pay attention to what you see, smell, taste, and hear.

When writing about nature, you should be able to evoke its beauty in words. You want to describe the sights, smells, and sounds of nature so that your reader can truly appreciate it.

Check out this video about descriptive essays:

Tips on Writing a Descriptive Essay About Nature

Now that you know what a descriptive essay is, here are some tips to help you get started:

  • Choose a Specific Topic or Experience

When writing your essay, it's important to choose a specific topic or experience. Nature is full of subjects! You can write about the night sky, plants, animals, and even the weather.

By choosing a specific topic or experience to write about, you can create a focused essay. This will make it easier for you to focus your thoughts and create a descriptive essay that is clear and impactful.

You may also check out other descriptive essay topics if you are still deciding what to write about.

  • Be Creative With Your Words

Descriptive essays are all about being creative with your words. You can start your essays with an engaging hook . Look up synonyms, metaphors, and other literary devices to help make your essay more interesting.

It's also important to write your essay with emotion. Make sure your words come from an honest place and that they are truly able to capture the beauty of nature.

  • Use Vivid Descriptions

When describing the topic, be sure to use vivid descriptions. Use words that are interesting and captivating so your reader can truly experience what you're writing about.

For instance, instead of saying " the sky is blue ", try to add more descriptions such as " the vibrant, crystal-blue sky ". This will help your readers to feel like they are actually in the experience.

  • Give Your Essay a Structure

As with any type of writing, make sure to give your essay a proper structure. You can do this by creating an outline before starting your essay.

The descriptive essay outline should include your main points. This will help you keep your thoughts organized and it'll also make the writing process much smoother.

  • Revise and Edit

Before submitting your essay, it's important to make sure you go through the revision and editing process.

Revision and editing include making sure your essay is clear, your ideas make sense, and there are no grammatical mistakes. This will help you make sure that your essay is the best it can be.

  •  Read Sample Essays

Reading sample essays is a great way to get some ideas and inspiration for your own essay. Look up different topics related to nature and read through various essays to get a better understanding.

Following these tips should help you write a great descriptive essay about nature.

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Descriptive Essays About Nature Examples

Now that you know the tips and tricks for writing a descriptive essay about nature, let's look at some examples. These samples will give you an idea of what your own essay can look like.

Descriptive Writing About Nature

Descriptive Essay About Mother Nature

Descriptive Essay About Beauty of Nature

Short Descriptive Essay About Nature - PDF Example

Beauty of Nature Essay Example 300 Words

Descriptive Essay About A Beautiful Location in Nature

Read more descriptive essay examples on various other topics to broaden your horizon.

To wrap it up for you,

With these tips and examples, you should be well on your way to writing a great descriptive essay about nature. Just remember to choose a specific topic, be creative with your words, use vivid descriptions, and revise and edit the essay.

Are you looking for a descriptive essay writing service to do it for you? We're here to help!

MyPerfectWords.com is a college paper writing service  that helps students of all levels achieve their academic goals. Our expert descriptive essay writers are experienced, knowledgeable, and passionate about writing effective essays on any topic.

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descriptive essay

Beach Description Essay

  • To find inspiration for your paper and overcome writer’s block
  • As a source of information (ensure proper referencing)
  • As a template for you assignment

Looking for simple and beautiful descriptive writing about a beach in summer? The beach description essay below is just what you need! Get inspired for your own creative writing with us.

Introduction

Description of a beach.

Summer is the perfect time for individuals to visit and enjoy the marvelous scenes along the coast. In addition, the feelings and experiences felt on the beach during the summer are always fantastic. Several sceneries and experiences are seen and felt at the beach during summer. These include; the plantation along the beach and inside the sea, the animals, the waters, and the people found on the beach.

The beach appears to be alive and joyful with the presence of the natural vegetation. There are evergreen plantations both along and inside the beach. Images of buoyant seaweeds can be seen along the shore. Palms trees are seen to stand tall along the beach, dancing to the tune of the breeze emanating from the waters of the sea.

The sea grapes and the sea oats are also observed gathered in clusters in the sea next to the shore. Their colored flowers are splendid and brighten at the shining of the summer sun. The sweet scent of the flower grapes sends a signal to the world about the hope brought by nature.

The atmosphere is fully intensified by the aroma produced by the buoyant sea flowers. In addition, from afar, images of leafless trees are also observed. The perfect combination of the vegetation along the beach and inside the sea displays the beauty of nature to the highest peak.

It mesmerizes the eyes to gaze at the beautiful creatures that hover all over the beach and on the deep-sea waters. There are sights of beautiful birds that fly all over the dry shoreland and over the seawaters. Their colored feathers brightened the sea with a marvelous appearance at their illumination by the sun’s rays.

There are varieties of birds that are in the vicinity. For instance, there are pelicans and seagulls. Pelicans are seen hovering over the sand, singing sweet melodies that make the atmosphere at the beach vibrant. The seagulls are also observed to be flying over the seawater in small groups. Some of the birds are gathered in groups spreading the wings that cloaked a soft shadow on the gentle water ripples.

Next to the shore, there are sea turtles that seem to enjoy the summer heat from the sun. Their eggs are also seen to be exposed on the sand by the children that play on the shoreline. Bees are seen flying from one flower to another over the sea grapes. The humming of the bees as they gather nectar from the sea flowers attracts insect-eating birds.

Large crowds are observed all over the seashore. These people come to enjoy themselves on the beach at this period of the year. In the sea, people of all ages and sexes are seen swimming and playing with the cool seawater. The scorching heat from the summer sun is felt on the forehead of all individuals.

This makes the people chill themselves in the cool waters of the sea. The children are seen playing beach ball on the shoreline. Some children are also seen pelt each other with sand on the shoreline. Besides, young boys are observed climbing tall palm trees to gather fruits.

What is more, several activities take place along and inside the shoreline. Vendors are seen carrying ice creams and soft drinks all over the shoreline. Views of homes, hotels, and other buildings that run along the peak of the beach are also seen. On the sand where children play, pieces of shells are scattered.

In most cases, children collect the shells for fun. In the shades built along the shoreline, people are seen reading books, journals, and magazines. Some are seen idling on the sand, while few adults are observed playing football.

However, there is a disgusting scene of plastic bags, cigarette butts, food wrappers, and beer bottles along the beach. These items seem to pollute the entire shoreline and the seawater.

Anglers are also observed far into the sea casting large nets into the waters to have a bulk catch of their prey. Some of the anglers are also observed perching on the edge of the shore carrying sticks in their hands. Their faces displayed the anticipation that they had for their prey.

The deep waters of the sea produce a marvelous view for anyone who gazes at the sea. The water is seen to be slowly running low on the shore. Small waves are also observed crashing on the shoreline. The surface of the sea is seen to appear blue in color.

However, some portions are also seen to have the spectrum that results from the sun’s refracted rays. Deep inside the sea, there are high waves that lift boats up and down mightily. The shimmering waves of the sea that are clear and blue mirror the rays of the hot sun. The refreshing breeze that emanates from the seawater is enjoyable.

In conclusion, the beach has a perfect view and activities that are delightful to experience during the summer. It is a place that everyone would love to be at all times.

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Bibliography

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Describing Words for Landscape: Examples & Adjectives

descriptive essay on landscape

When it comes to describing the beauty of a landscape, words have the power to transport us to breathtaking vistas and evoke a sense of wonder. As a writer and avid traveler, I have always been fascinated by the variety and richness of landscapes around the world. In this article, I’ll be sharing with you some of the most captivating adjectives that can be used to describe landscapes, along with examples that will bring these words to life.

From the rugged peaks of majestic mountains to the serene tranquility of rolling meadows, landscapes offer a myriad of experiences for our senses to feast upon. As we explore the descriptive power of adjectives, we’ll uncover words that capture the essence of these natural wonders. Whether you’re a fellow wordsmith looking to enhance your writing or simply an admirer of the beauty of nature, this article will provide you with a treasure trove of adjectives that will help you paint vivid pictures with your words.

So, without further ado, let’s delve into the world of adjectives for landscapes and discover the perfect words to describe the awe-inspiring beauty that surrounds us. Get ready to be inspired and transported to the most breathtaking corners of the Earth through the power of words.

Table of Contents

How to Describe landscape? – Different Scenarios

When it comes to describing landscapes, there are endless possibilities. Each landscape has its own unique features and characteristics that can be captured using different adjectives. Here are a few scenarios where you can use specific adjectives to paint a vivid picture of the landscape:

1. Majestic Mountains

Mountains evoke a sense of grandeur and awe. To describe mountains, you can use adjectives that highlight their impressive size, ruggedness, and beauty. Some examples include:

2. Tranquil Lakes

Lakes are known for their calm and peaceful aura. To describe a lake, you can use adjectives that emphasize its tranquility, clarity, and reflective nature. Here are a few examples:

3. Lush Rainforests

Rainforests are teeming with life and greenery. To describe a rainforest, you can use adjectives that convey its lushness, biodiversity, and vibrant atmosphere. Consider these examples:

Describing Words for landscape in English

Lush Rainforests

Example Sentences
The of the mountains framed the landscape, creating a majestic sight.
I dipped my toes into the lake, feeling a sense of peace and serenity wash over me.
As I wandered through the rainforest, the air was alive with the sounds of exotic birds and the scent of vibrant flowers.
The beach stretched out before me, its sandy shore sparkling under the sun’s golden rays.

By incorporating these describing words into your writing, you can bring your landscapes to life and captivate your readers. Remember, choosing the right adjectives is the key to transporting your audience to the beauty of nature.

Adjectives for landscape

In this section, I’ll provide you with a list of positive and negative adjectives that can be used to describe landscapes. These adjectives will help you create vivid and engaging descriptions of various natural settings. Let’s dive in!

Positive Adjectives for Landscape

Remember to use these adjectives judiciously, ensuring they accurately convey the specific aspects of the landscape you are describing. Happy writing!

Remember, we don’t need a conclusion paragraph for this ongoing article.

Synonyms and Antonyms with Example Sentences

Synonyms for landscape.

When it comes to describing landscapes, having a wide range of synonyms at your disposal can help you create more vivid and engaging descriptions. Here are some synonyms that can be used to enhance your writing:

SynonymDefinition
ScenicProviding a beautiful or picturesque view
BreathtakingStunning or awe-inspiring
PanoramicAllowing a wide or comprehensive view
SerenePeaceful and calm
MajesticHaving grandeur or greatness
IdyllicPleasingly natural, simple, or peaceful

Antonyms for landscape

In addition to synonyms, antonyms can also be helpful in providing contrasting descriptions of landscapes. Here are some antonyms for landscape that you can use to add depth to your writing:

AntonymDefinition
DrearyDull, bleak or gloomy
UnremarkableOrdinary or lacking in interest
BarrenLacking vegetation or life
ChaoticDisordered or lacking harmony
PollutedContaminated or dirty
UninvitingNot appealing or welcoming

In this article, I have explored the power of words in describing landscapes and provided a comprehensive list of synonyms and antonyms that can be used to create vivid and engaging descriptions. By carefully choosing the right words, writers can accurately convey the unique characteristics of the landscapes they are describing.

Throughout the article, I have emphasized the importance of incorporating these synonyms and antonyms into writing to enrich descriptions and create a more captivating portrayal of landscapes. Words such as “scenic,” “breathtaking,” and “majestic” can help paint a picture of beauty and awe, while antonyms like “dreary,” “unremarkable,” and “polluted” can convey a sense of negativity or decay.

So, the next time you find yourself wanting to describe a landscape, remember the power of words and choose your adjectives wisely. Let your descriptions captivate and inspire, creating a lasting impression on your readers.

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Writing Beginner

How to Describe a City in Writing (100+ Best Examples)

Crafting compelling descriptions of cities is a skill that can vividly immerse your readers in your narrative.

Here’s how to describe a city in writing:

Describe a city by considering its size, culture, age, geography, architecture, infrastructure, economy, climate, landscape, and nightlife. Each characteristic offers a unique perspective, allowing you to craft a vivid, engaging description. Tie your description to your theme.

This article will guide you through the process of describing a city, focusing on ten crucial elements that add life and color to your descriptions.

10 Elements for Describing a City in Writing

Digital image of a city with blue and yellow shading - How to describe a city in writing

Table of Contents

When describing a city in writing, you need to know these 10 elements:

Architecture

Infrastructure.

Next, let’s explore each of these elements in more detail and provide examples of how to apply them to your own stories.

Size refers to the scale of a city in terms of its physical extent and population.

By mentioning the size, you set a foundation for the readers, giving them a sense of the city’s vastness or compactness.

Words to Describe the Size of a City in Writing

  • Densely populated
  • Medium-sized

Examples of Describing a City by Size

  • Sprawling across the landscape like a behemoth, the metropolis swallowed the horizon whole.
  • With a population exceeding millions, the city buzzed with ceaseless activity.
  • The dense network of streets formed a compact, labyrinthine cityscape.
  • It was a small city, where everybody knew everybody.
  • The city was vast, its boundaries stretching as far as the eye could see.
  • Its towering skyscrapers were a testament to its grandeur and size.
  • Nestled in the valley, the city covered a small area, yet housed a myriad of cultures.
  • The size of the city was deceptive; it was more densely populated than it appeared.
  • The city was a sprawling canvas of urbanity, cutting across county lines.
  • The petite city was neatly crammed into a pocket of the mountainside.

Culture comprises the beliefs, traditions, arts, and history that influence a city’s way of life.

Highlighting the culture paints a vivid picture of the people, customs, and ethos that define the city.

Words to Describe the Culture of a City in Writing

  • Traditional
  • Cosmopolitan
  • Multicultural
  • Conservative
  • Progressive

Examples of Describing a City by Culture

  • The city was steeped in ancient traditions, echoing its ancestral roots.
  • Its lively arts scene painted the city with an irreplaceable cultural vibrancy.
  • The city was a melting pot of diverse cultures, blending seamlessly into one another.
  • The annual festival was a cultural extravaganza that transformed the city into a carnival.
  • The city was synonymous with classical music, its soul resonating in symphony.
  • The local cuisine, a testament to the city’s rich culture, left a tantalizing aroma in the air.
  • An artistic hub, the city was a cradle of avant-garde movements.
  • The city’s cultural tapestry was woven with threads of countless ethnicities.
  • The city wore its history like a proud badge, its culture speaking volumes of its glorious past.
  • The city was a cultural cocktail, stirred with vibrant arts, and timeless traditions.

The age of a city refers to how long it has existed, which is often reflected in its architectural style, infrastructure, and historical landmarks.

Describing the age can transport your reader back in time or into the future.

Words to Describe the Age of a City in Writing

  • Prehistoric
  • Contemporary

Examples of Describing a City by Age

  • The city’s ancient walls were steeped in history, whispering tales from centuries ago.
  • The futuristic skyline was a testament to its recent establishment.
  • Age-old monuments punctuated the city, standing tall as symbols of its venerable past.
  • The city was a blend of old and new, where modernity met antiquity.
  • Modern skyscrapers towered over the city, evidence of its recent urban development.
  • The city was an enduring relic of the Medieval Age, its cobblestone streets weaving tales of yore.
  • With buildings dating back to the Victorian era, the city was an open history book.
  • Despite its youthful age, the city wore an old soul.
  • The city was a testament to the future, a spectacle of cutting-edge technology and sleek architecture.
  • Age-old traditions thrived amidst the modern cityscape, telling tales of a city that respected its past.

Geography describes the city’s location, its physical features, and how these factors influence the city’s character and lifestyle.

Words to Describe the Geography of a City in Writing

  • Mountainous

Examples of Describing a City by Geography

  • The city was built on hills, its houses twinkling like stars on an undulating landscape.
  • Its coastal location made the city a paradise for beach lovers.
  • Tucked between mountains, the city was a serene oasis in a rugged setting.
  • The desert city was a mirage of golden sands and sparkling oases.
  • The city was a confluence of rivers, forming a scenic waterfront that buzzed with life.
  • Surrounded by dense forests, the city was an island of urbanity in a sea of wilderness.
  • The coastal city was a playground of surf and sand, where the sea kissed the cityscape.
  • The city was a picturesque valley carved into the heart of the mountains.
  • A city of islands, it was a constellation of vibrant urban life amidst the tranquil sea.
  • The city was an urban jewel nestled in the heart of the vast plains.

Architecture refers to the style and character of the city’s buildings and structures.

It speaks to the city’s history, culture, and technological progress.

Words to Describe the Architecture of a City in Writing

Examples of describing a city by architecture.

  • Gothic spires and Romanesque arches painted a canvas of architectural marvels.
  • The cityscape was a fusion of Brutalist concrete and sleek glass towers.
  • Traditional thatched cottages adorned the city, a spectacle of rustic charm.
  • The city was a palette of Art Deco buildings, their geometric patterns a testament to its rich architectural legacy.
  • Modern skyscrapers dotted the city skyline, interspersed with green terraces and solar panels.
  • The city was a sprawling labyrinth of narrow alleys, flanked by ancient terracotta houses.
  • The city was a spectrum of architectural styles, from Victorian houses to modern lofts.
  • The city’s architecture was a reflection of its sustainable ethos, with green roofs and walls covered in foliage.
  • The city’s colonial architecture narrated tales of a bygone era.
  • Futuristic architecture characterized the city, with self-sustaining buildings and smart infrastructures.

Infrastructure speaks to the functionality of a city – its roads, bridges, public facilities, and utilities.

It provides insights into the city’s level of development and organization.

Words to Describe the Infrastructure of a City in Writing

  • Well-developed
  • Sustainable
  • Disorganized

Examples of Describing a City by Infrastructure

  • The city boasted an intricate network of subways, making commuting a breeze.
  • Its wide boulevards were lined with trees, merging functionality with aesthetics.
  • The city had a robust public transportation system that kept its lifeblood flowing.
  • Advanced telecommunication infrastructures turned the city into a global hub of digital innovation.
  • Its well-planned bike lanes made the city a paradise for cyclists.
  • The city was illuminated by solar-powered streetlights, a testament to its green infrastructure.
  • The city’s skywalks connected buildings, forming a labyrinth above the hustle and bustle.
  • The city’s efficient waste management system kept its streets clean and green.
  • The city’s infrastructure was a seamless blend of urbanity and nature.
  • The city was a beacon of technological prowess, its infrastructure speaking volumes of its progress.

The economy of a city speaks about its wealth, main industries, and job opportunities.

It gives the reader a sense of the city’s prosperity or lack thereof.

Words to Describe the Economy of a City in Writing

  • Impoverished
  • Agricultural
  • Technological

Examples of Describing a City by Economy

  • The city was a bustling hub of commerce, its markets buzzing with activity.
  • It was an industrial city, its skyline punctuated with factories and smokestacks.
  • The city’s booming tech sector attracted talent from around the globe.
  • Its struggling economy painted a city in decay, with boarded-up storefronts and desolate streets.
  • The city was a hub of finance, home to towering banks and bustling stock exchanges.
  • A rich agricultural economy defined the city, its verdant farms a testament to its wealth.
  • The city thrived on tourism, its bustling streets a carnival of foreign faces.
  • The city was an emblem of prosperity, its thriving economy lifting people out of poverty.
  • Despite the economic downturn, the city held onto its vibrant spirit, a testament to its resilience.
  • The city’s economy was a vibrant tapestry of trade, services, and manufacturing.

Climate characterizes the city’s weather patterns throughout the year.

It can deeply influence a city’s culture, lifestyle, and even architecture.

Words to Describe the Climate of a City in Writing

  • Mediterranean
  • Continental
  • Subtropical

Examples of Describing a City by Climate

  • The city was blessed with a temperate climate, keeping it lush and vibrant all year round.
  • Its harsh winters painted the city in shades of white, with frost-etched buildings and snow-blanketed streets.
  • The tropical climate kept the city in a perpetual state of summer, with azure skies and sun-kissed streets.
  • The city was a desert, its climate oscillating between scorching days and frigid nights.
  • The city’s Mediterranean climate filled it with fragrant breezes and clear, sunny days.
  • The city was caught in an eternal spring, awash with blooming flowers and chirping birds.
  • The city experienced four distinct seasons, painting a vivid palette of changing landscapes.
  • The city was infamous for its torrential rains, transforming its streets into rivulets.
  • The city’s harsh climate made it a fortress of solitude, its cold winters keeping outsiders at bay.
  • The city’s mild climate was a relief to its residents, offering respite from extreme weather.

Landscape refers to the natural and artificial features that shape the city’s terrain and overall visual appearance.

Words to Describe the Landscape of a City in Writing

Examples of describing a city by landscape.

  • The city was a symphony of undulating hills and glass-and-steel towers.
  • Its landscape was punctuated with verdant parks, like emeralds set in concrete.
  • The city was a mosaic of picturesque canals and charming footbridges.
  • The city’s landscape was a spectacular blend of towering cliffs and sweeping beaches.
  • The city’s landscape was dominated by a majestic mountain that stood as a silent sentinel.
  • The city was a concrete jungle, a dense matrix of buildings interspersed with occasional pockets of green.
  • The city’s vast plains stretched to the horizon, a vast checkerboard of farmland and urban clusters.
  • The city was characterized by its dramatic coastline, where jagged cliffs met the roaring sea.
  • The city was nestled in a lush forest, its buildings camouflaged amongst the towering trees.
  • The city’s landscape was a harmonious blend of the old and new, where verdant vineyards met sprawling shopping malls.

Nightlife includes the after-dark activities that a city offers – from dining, music, and theater to clubs, bars, and other entertainment venues.

It reflects the city’s vibrancy and energy when the sun sets.

Words to Describe the Nightlife of a City in Writing

  • Nonexistent
  • Underground
  • Sophisticated

Examples of Describing a City by Nightlife

  • The city came alive at night, its streets pulsating with lights and music.
  • The city’s nightlife was a whirlwind of neon signs, lively bars, and pulsating dance floors.
  • The city was famous for its jazz clubs, their sultry tunes wafting into the night.
  • The city’s vibrant night markets were a treasure trove of culinary delights.
  • The city’s nightlife was a spectrum of opera houses, theaters, and art galleries, enriching the cultural fabric.
  • The city’s skyline glittered with rooftop bars, offering panoramic views of the starlit cityscape.
  • The city’s after-hours was a playground for night owls, teeming with nightclubs and music venues.
  • The city’s tranquil nights were a respite from the bustling days, its streets bathed in the soft glow of streetlights.
  • The city was a nocturnal paradise, its nightlife teeming with gourmet restaurants and wine bars.
  • The city’s night scene was a melting pot of cultures, its streets resonating with music from around the world.

Here is a good video about how to describe a city in writing:

3 Full Examples of City Descriptions in Writing

Here are three full examples of how to describe a city in writing.

Nonfiction Essay

Los Angeles is a sprawling city, spreading across a vast, flat coastal plain nestled between mountains and the Pacific Ocean. Its multicultural nature is palpable, a melting pot where hundreds of cultures converge to create a rich tapestry of humanity. From Little Tokyo to Olvera Street, the city offers cultural enclaves that transport visitors to different corners of the world.

The architecture of Los Angeles tells a tale of its age and history.

From the contemporary designs of downtown skyscrapers to the Spanish Colonial Revival structures that pay homage to the city’s early days, LA offers a visual feast of architectural styles. Infrastructure-wise, Los Angeles is a car-centric city, known for its iconic freeways, yet, it is also actively expanding its public transportation system.

The climate in LA is Mediterranean, providing its residents with sunshine nearly all year round.

This, combined with the city’s picturesque landscape of rolling hills and sandy beaches, contributes to the quintessential Southern Californian lifestyle. The nightlife in Los Angeles, known for its glitz and glamor, mirrors the city’s reputation as the entertainment capital of the world.

Mystery Novel

The city of Edinburgh, ancient and mysterious, was shrouded in a veil of fog.

Narrow, winding streets wound their way up and down the city’s undulating terrain, past centuries-old Gothic buildings that seemed to hold whispered secrets in their cold stone. The towering Edinburgh Castle, perched atop an extinct volcano, cast long, eerie shadows across the Old Town, lending an air of mystique.

Despite the Scottish capital’s gloomy weather, the city was alive with culture. The annual Fringe Festival transformed the streets into a vibrant tapestry of theatre, music, and dance. Meanwhile, tucked away in the corners of the city were hole-in-the-wall pubs, where folk music hung heavy in the air.

Even in the dead of night, the city refused to sleep.

The pubs and clubs of the Royal Mile, teeming with locals and tourists alike, created an eclectic nightlife. The cobblestone streets echoed with faint laughter, ghostly footfalls, and the faint skirl of bagpipes, imbuing the city with an aura of enchanting mystery.

Romance Novel

Venice, with its endless maze of canals and charming footbridges, seemed to have been woven from dreams.

It was an intimate city, its compact geography fostering a unique, close-knit culture. The melodies of the gondoliers’ serenades drifted through the air, their words telling tales of age-old love stories.

The city’s Gothic architecture, ornate and elegant, reflected in the shimmering waters of the Grand Canal. The iconic Rialto Bridge, a testament to Venice’s architectural prowess, served as a lover’s meeting spot, its stone balustrades bearing witness to countless stolen kisses.

The Venetian economy thrived on tourism and the arts, its numerous mask shops, and glass-blowing factories testifying to the city’s artisanal heritage.

Venice was a city that never hurried. Its pace was defined by the gentle ebb and flow of its canals.

As twilight descended, the city transitioned from a bustling tourist hub to a serene sanctuary. The street lamps flickered to life, casting a romantic glow on the cobblestones. The serenade of the gondoliers intertwined with the soft whispers of the wind, composing a nocturnal symphony that was the heartbeat of this city of love.

Final Thoughts: How to Describe a City in Writing

Before you type “THE END” to your story, essay, or piece of writing, consider how your city weaves into the tapestry of your narrative.

Particularly, how your city embodies and exposes the theme.

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  • How To Describe a House in Writing (21 Tips for Beginners)
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Descriptive Essay

Descriptive Essay Writing

Last updated on: Feb 9, 2023

How To Write An Impactful Descriptive Essay?

By: Cathy A.

12 min read

Reviewed By: Melisa C.

Published on: Dec 17, 2019

Descriptive Essay

Wondering how to write an impressive descriptive essay? Writing a descriptive essay is both fun and challenging. You need to describe the main topic in detail and by engaging the five senses of the readers.

Students usually get this type of essay in high school and college. Writing a descriptive essay is different from other essays.

You need to focus on describing a certain person, place, or event.

Luckily for you, the following blog post will provide some helpful tips on how to create an engaging essay.

Continue reading to learn how to write an A-worthy descriptive essay.

Descriptive Essay

On this Page

What is a Descriptive Essay?

A descriptive essay is a detailed paper that describes a place, person, situation, object, or emotion. Different people have different points of view and your job is to explain yours in detail.

You may be asked to write a descriptive essay about the beach or forest or about a person or situation. The purpose of this essay is to test the writer’s ability in expressing and explaining their experiences.

Descriptive writing should create a picture in the reader’s mind. You may be required to write a descriptive essay as a high school or college essay assignment.

For a compelling essay, using adjectives and adverbs, details, and figurative language is fundamental. Without proper usage of words, you will not be able to invoke the readers' emotions.

What is the Purpose of a Descriptive Essay?

The purpose of a descriptive essay is to describe a person, place, or personal experience in vivid detail so that the reader can create a picture in his mind.

The descriptive essay is written to get the reader to understand by using descriptive language. It is different from narrative essays, where the writer tells the story about someone else. Usually, it starts with a real-life event and then the content follows the author's imagination.

Descriptive essays are not intended to persuade the reader or show facts and figures to prove something. Descriptive essays are like word paintings that contain personal and descriptive details and these are mostly assigned to students of creative writing.

How to Start a Descriptive Essay

A strong start for your descriptive essay is essential. Analyze your topic from every angle and document the following details:

Analyze the main subjects in detail and observe minute things.

  • Start with observing all the possible aspects of the subject.
  • Don't just observe the object but also its surroundings.
  • Focus on details and features of the subject and develop opinions about them.
  • Be thoughtful; this first step will be the basis for the essay.

Physical Settings

Describing the physical settings is a must in a descriptive essay. When describing, keep the following points in mind.

  • Focus on the subject's position and observe nearby objects
  • Note the time of day and kind of lighting: natural or imitated
  • Physical settings: all the basic and decorative elements
  • The position and shape of the objects
  • Alignment and any other observable information

Physical Features

When describing the physical features of the subject, living or nonliving, consider the following points.

  • Living or nonliving; describe the features in detail
  • The subject's skin color, texture, smoothness, expression, and age
  • The features of inanimate objects in the picture, color, surface, and texture

Create Drama

Storytelling and drama are the life and blood of a good descriptive essay. It turns your essay into an exciting and interesting piece of writing. However, be subtle about adding drama to your sentence structure and add it to complement your story only.

Focus On Your Feelings

Focus on how you feel about the particular topic or person and stick to it. It is easy to get involved when working on the essay. But, focus on your own feelings and write an essay based on them.

Use Of Specific Vocabulary

Vocabulary is important. Select the best words for describing an action or object. Don't always use the first word that comes to mind.

Write slowly and thoughtfully, and use specific words to convey your thoughts.

Psychological Aspects

Writing about a certain situation or behavior of a person focuses on the mental aspects and emotions involved in them.

For Example, describe your emotions when your friend misplaced your notes right before the exam.

You may have had several emotions in that incident. Maybe you were prepared for exams, but this situation put you under pressure and made you feel frustrated and hurt.

Explore those emotions and describe the feelings they aroused. Describe the body language also, if relevant.

Ask Yourself, WHY?

This is the most valuable tip for students. When you are looking at a particular subject, and having difficulty analyzing its aspects, ask yourself "WHY".

  • Why is the subject the way it is?
  • Why does the person you are describing have such a deep-set and cold eyes?
  • Why is the animal so wounded and terrified?
  • Why is this particular place famous?

It is a good practice and after some time you will do it naturally. Knowing the why is important if you want to describe your topic properly.

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How To Write A Descriptive Essay?

When you write a descriptive essay, you help your readers visualize an event, a person, or a story. It is written to make your readers feel what you feel about the respective subject.

A descriptive essay seeks to appeal to some or all of the audience’s five senses. Some key things to consider are:

  • Discussing your subject thoroughly
  • Focusing on details and adding them in your essay
  • Sharing your personal feelings and experience about the subject
  • Observing and describing all sensory details of your subject

Here are the steps to write a descriptive essay easily.

1- Choose an Engaging and Focused Essay Topic

An important step that all strong descriptive essays share is having a focused topic. Before you make the outline, identify the purpose of your essay and use it to create an appropriate thesis statement.This type of paper does not require much personal opinion from you. Its main goal should be focusing on information that will make a dominant impression in readers' minds instead.

2- Research and Gather Important Details

When writing a descriptive essay, it is important to make sure you include as many details and sensory information as possible. This helps your reader fully understand the images that are being presented in their mind's eye.You can organize these ideas into categories so they're easy for you to access when needed.

3- Create an Outline of Your Essay

Your essays must be organized by having subheadings that are clear and concise. Group your main points into individual body paragraphs, each of which should only cover one idea or topic at a time.

4- Write your Essay’s Introduction

A good introductory paragraph is much like a road map because it provides direction to your readers.

It provides relevant background information before diving into more specific details related to how something works or why something happens. These could include statistics or stories from real-life scenarios.

5- Write the Main Body Section of Your Essay

Each body paragraph should start with a topic sentence that keeps the reader hooked on what you are saying. Use specific details instead of making generalized statements, and make sure to give examples if necessary.

6- End with a Strong Conclusion

The conclusion of an essay is the final paragraph, and it should summarize all that you have said throughout. It's a good idea to restate the main points and key details from the essay in this section.

It is important so the reader has everything they need for better understanding before ending off on something new.

If necessary be sure not to introduce anything odd or unusual, to avoid any confusion.

7- Proofread and Revise the Essay Carefully

Once you are done writing the essay, proofread and revise it carefully. Make sure that it is free from all kinds of errors.

Descriptive Essay Outline

Like all the other essays, a descriptive essay also follows the usual 5-paragraph essay structure and format.Before starting, it is important to create an outline. Following are the fundamental elements of your descriptive essay outline:

Descriptive Essay Introduction

The introduction sets the footing for the entire essay. Before heading towards the body section, the reader will come across the introduction.

It is the first impression of your work. It is very important to write an engaging introduction so that the readers read the essay till the end.

Start the essay in an easy-to-understand way and language. Provide background information on your topic so they can understand it and its importance.

To make sure the reader feels your emotions and decides to continue reading further, incorporate the following points in your introduction.

The following tips will guide you on how to write a good introduction for a descriptive essay.

  • Attract the reader's attention with an interesting fact, phrase, or quote
  • Don't bombard them with information
  • Go straight to the main pointsInclude enough information to introduce the topic and its significance.
  • Summarize the argument and the main topic and craft your thesis statement

Descriptive Essay Thesis Statement

A thesis statement is an integral part of your essay. It focuses on the argument and the writer’s main idea, which is to be discussed in the essay.

This statement also provides the writer with a chance of explaining the purpose and scope of the topic. It is intriguing and engaging.

A thesis statement is written at the end of the introduction, it is mainly a single sentence that describes the essay objective. The thesis statement should act as a guide to the reader on what to expect in the essay body. It is like a table of contents of a book, to the reader on contents you will get an idea of what the book is all about so you get to understand it better.

It is like a table of contents of a book. By reading it, you will get an idea of what the book is all about.

A good thesis should contain the following things:

  • Define the essay scope - it should narrow down all the points to clarify its purpose.
  • Avoid using common words - you should be creative with your choice of words.
  • Create suspense - it should attract the reader to the body paragraphs of the essay.

For further information on how to write a thesis for a descriptive essay, check out the following examples.

  • Descriptive essay example about a Place

“Even though monarchy is long gone, Buckingham Palace is here to remind us of the aesthetic beauty of that era.”

  • Descriptive essay example about a Person

“One of the characteristics of Spider-Man is his youthfulness, and the fact that he talks to himself more than Hamlet.”

  • Descriptive essay example about an Emotion

“For numerous reasons, the dark forest is my greatest fear, though not a fear which is necessarily smart to face.”

Descriptive Essay Body Paragraphs

Body paragraphs of the essay come next after the introduction and thesis statement. It is the main part that continues your essay.

Usually, an essay consists of three body paragraphs but you can add more if needed.

Don't add more than one central idea in one paragraph. Fusing different ideas will confuse the reader.

Build your paragraphs according to the thesis and introduction.

  • Start each body paragraph with the main sentence
  • Use transitions to move between paragraphs smoothly
  • Each paragraph should be five to six sentences long

Descriptive Essay Conclusion

The concluding paragraph is the last part of an essay, and probably your last chance to impress your reader.

The last part that the reader can keep in mind is the conclusion, which is as important as the rest of the essay.

To make it interesting and thought-provoking, include the following points:

  • Restate the thesis statement
  • Summarize the main points
  • Add an intriguing closing statement

After writing the conclusion, make a review of your essay, identify the mistakes and maintain a good tone throughout the essay.

Descriptive Essay Format Sample

Here is the descriptive essay format to help you understand how you can write a winning descriptive essay.

DESCRIPTIVE ESSAY FORMAT (PDF)

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Descriptive Essay Topics Ideas

Descriptive essay topics are often related to physical settings, locations, living beings, and objects.

Make sure that your essay includes the five senses, touch, taste, smell, sight, hearing, or at least one of them. It depends on the topic and the kind of feeling that you want to arouse.

Below are some descriptive essay ideas and ways to achieve them.

Living Beings

When you want to write about a person like a family member, consider the following elements:

  • Gender, age, complexion, and expressions
  • Physical features
  • Height, body type, and approximate weight
  • Kind of clothes

These details will add depth to the description and your readers will actually see your narrative.

When animals are the subject, you can add the above points plus the following details:

  • Species and animal
  • Size, weight, color
  • Behavior patterns
  • Temperament
  • Trained or wild?
  • Real or fictional?

Inanimate Subjects

Geographic locations and structures.

When your subject is a place or a building, add the following points:

  • Research about the place and its historical background
  • The color and the building's type
  • A famous place or landmark to draw a comparison and inspire interest

Human behavior and psychology is a compelling descriptive essay subject. When writing about it:

  • Describe the consequences of a particular behavior
  • Discuss the emotional dimension of the topic and how you perceive it personally

Event Or Travel Experience

A travel experience makes a good descriptive essay since you have experienced the event first hand.

Give a detailed description of the place, people at the venue, and the atmosphere of the location.

Idea, Concept, or Occupation

When writing on such topics, focus on how an idea or concept affects society and its different aspects.

Example Descriptive Essay Topics for Students

Choosing a topic for your descriptive essay is quite interesting. You get to choose something that you have an emotional connection with.

When writing a descriptive essay about a person or place, adding their personal traits will be helpful.

Some examples of descriptive essay topics include:

  • Compose a detailed descriptive essay about your best friend.
  • Describe a fancy place that you have created.
  • Describe your dream vacation destination.
  • Describe your favorite mall or store.
  • Describe your childhood home.
  • Descriptive essay about nature.
  • Descriptive essay about a place you visited.
  • Describe the personality of your Maths teacher.
  • Discuss the main characters of your favorite movie.
  • Descriptive essay about chocolate.
  • Write an essay using unique Words to describe yourself.
  • What makes me unique?
  • My first love.

Descriptive Essay Examples

Study these descriptive essay examples and sample papers to understand the main idea, structure, and purpose of descriptive essays.

DESCRIPTIVE ESSAY ON MARKET (PDF)

DESCRIPTIVE ESSAY EXAMPLE PERSON (PDF)

To help you understand how to write a great descriptive essay, we have a whole blog post dedicated to it. We know that talking about something is one thing and demonstrating it is completely different.

Having a descriptive essay assignment with a short deadline? Looking for someone to do my essay for me ?

5StarEssays.com academic writing professionals are ready to help you. They read the essay details before writing and make sure that they incorporate all the details in it.

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Frequently Asked Questions

What are the features of a descriptive essay.

A descriptive essay provides a perfect opportunity for writers to express their feelings on any subject. Descriptive writing has rich sensory details which appeal to all of your senses.

How do you start a descriptive essay introduction?

The introduction to the descriptive essay should set the scene and introduce the main topic. You can use these sensory details to get a sense of what the essay is all about.

What are the two types of descriptive essays?

There are two types of descriptive essays. The first type deals with people, and the second one is about objects.

What are the elements of a descriptive essay?

Here are the key elements of a descriptive essay.

  • Sensory details
  • Figurative language
  • Central and main theme
  • Precise and clear language
  • Proper organization of ideas

What makes good descriptive writing?

Good and effective descriptive writing consists of vivid sensory details that appeal to all senses including the sense of sight, smell, touch, hearing, and taste. Moreover, these essays also explain people’s feelings in writing.

Cathy A.

Finance Essay, Literature

Cathy has been been working as an author on our platform for over five years now. She has a Masters degree in mass communication and is well-versed in the art of writing. Cathy is a professional who takes her work seriously and is widely appreciated by clients for her excellent writing skills.

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Landscape Description essay

1.) Find at least two definitions of landscape and cite the source:

According to McGarigal (2012), a landscape is a heterogeneous areamade up of a cluster of interacting ecosystems and is repeated insimilar fashion throughout. Another definition of landscape is thatof yourdictionary.com (2016), which states that landscape comprisesthe features of a givenland area, especially when the land has beenimproved by carefully designed planting and arrangement. In art andphotography, landscape could also mean a picture or a paintingofnaturally occurring landforms.

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2. In the space provided give your comprehensive definition of&quotlandscape&quot. What does it include? What does it notinclude?

Inmy view, the word landscape encompasses numerous things. Forstarters, it precludes natural landforms such as mountains, rivers,lakes and wetlands. The word may also imply human made structuressuch as bridges, skyscrapers, and religious buildings. For somethingto qualify as a landscape, it should be prominent at the glance ofit. Small objects in an area that are not visible at a glance do notconstitute landscape. In addition, landscape does not refer toanimals or birds by extension.

3.What personal experiences contribute to your landscape definition?For example, camping as child in the backwoods.:

Growing up in Beijing had a great impact on my definition oflandscape. The city is devoid of natural landscapes such as riversand lakes. The most prevalent landscapes are bridges, skyscrapers,and religious buildings. Naturally- occurring landscapes are oftenfound in the outskirts of the city. Visiting the landscapes on theoutskirts of the city made me appreciate nature. Before then, I usedto marvel at the architectural landscapes within the city because Ialways thought how marvelous they looked. However, when I venturedinto the countryside at the age of 12, I began to marvel at naturallandscapes as well.

4. Identify a small scale landscape, what interests you about it?

The Cedar swamp in Young State Park in Michigan is an example of asmall landscape that caught my attention. It was my first trip tonature when I first came to the USA. The serenity of the swamp wassimply breathtaking. The water in the swamp was cool with littlechipping of crickets at different corners of the landscape. The sitewas especially attractive because I have never had the opportunity toexplore the wetlands of China owing to the fact that they are locatedthousands of miles away from Beijing. I call the swamp small scalebecause I could see the entire boundaries of the landscape with mybare eyes.

5. Identify a large scale landscape, what interests you about it?

I large landscape that interests me is Lake Mead. The landscape isinteresting because it supplies water to millions of homesteads inThe USA. The lake draws its water from the phenomenal Colorado Riverthat cuts through several states in the USA before entering Mexico. Iconsider this landscape large because a viewer at one end cannot seethe land at the opposite side of the lake. In order to move from oneside to the opposite border, a boat is mandatory.

6. Identify a historical landscape, what interests you about it?

The Great Wall of China is a historical landscape of significantimportance to the Chinese people. The marks the civilization ofEastern societies and their attempt to rule over each other.The wallstretches over thousands of miles but each yard that it coversrepresents the same thing- Chinese civilization. What interests memost about this wall is the amount of resources injected towards itsconstruction to enable it survive all these centuries.

7.Identify a modern landscape, what interests you about it?

The glass bridge of China is a modern landscape that interests me.The bridge stretches over a mountain gorge in Shiniuzhai Geopark inHunan, central China. The floor of the bridge that covers 900 milesat an average of 400 feet above the ground has a floor made oftransparent glass. I find this modern landscape interesting becauseit gives visitor the thrill of walking at horrifying heights betweentwo mountain cliffs. The design of the bridge interests me the most.The architectures used completely transparent glass to enable thevisitor see the bottom of the gorge that is hundreds of feet belowhim. Whilst the glass is transparent, it is also strong enough towithstand the weight of several human beings.

8. What landscapes have you visited that you found interesting andwhy were they interesting?

While in high school, I made a trip to Victoria Falls in Zambia,Southern Africa. The landscape was simply breathtaking. I could seewater falling from hundreds of meters above the ground. The largemass of water that was falling at the same time covered a width ofabout one mile. The sound, the mist, and the breeze are whatinterested me most about the landscape. The pounding sound of thetons of water falling over the hard rock surface can be heard from acamp that is about 20 miles away. The water vapor that is created inthe process is visible from about 20 miles away from the landscape.From a distance, the moisture make the area to appear as though ithas dense cloud over it. The waterfall also creates a distinctclimate within the vicinity of the landscape.

9. Please list three hobbies/interests identify what types oflandscapes are associated with these:

This hobby exposes me to landscapes such as pavements, roads, andrecreational parks. Sometimes I cycle deep into the countryside whereI get to encounter woods, dirt roads, and farms.

Hikinghas been my interest ever since I was in elementary school. The mostcommon type of landscape that is associated with hiking is the woods.Quite often, people who like to hike usually go deep into the woodswhere they set up camp and light campfires. Mountains and hills arealso common landscapes for people with hiking interests. Some hikersprefer to climb mountains and hills in search of adventure or toenjoy the scene of nature.

Themost common architectural landscape that is associated with thishobby is swimming pools. Pools can range from small to Olympic size,private or public. Swimming is also associated with lakes. Althoughnot all lakes are safe or clean for swimming, some do make goodlandscapes to exercise this hobby. Ocean beaches are also associatedwith swimming. During the summer, I usually visit the beach to enjoyswimming, the sun and rolling in the sand.

10. Identify three potential landscape analysis project sites? Foreach, discuss its location, the degree of accessibility, potentialdata sources (primary and secondary)

Potential site one is the Taihang Mountain of the Northern Mountainranges of China. My mother has travelled to the mountain and sheoften tells me how amazing it is to hike on the mountain. Although Ihave never had the courage to go up a mountain, I have decided thatthis will be my first experiment. When I go back to my home country,Taihang Mountain will be the first natural landscape that I willvisit. The mountain is about 50 miles away from my home in Beijinghence easily accessible by bus. My primary source of informationregarding this landscape will be visiting the site. As for thesecondary source, I will speak to my mother to give me full detailsof the mountain.

Potential site number two is the Mackinac Bridge in Michigan. Thelandscape is a landmark in the state of Michigan and it would be apleasure to see it. The location is accessible since it is within adriving distance from my residence. My primary source of data will bemy friend who has visited the site on several occasions. She saysthat she usually crosses the bridge every time we close school forthe holidays. Since she has grown within that area, I feel that it ismore appropriate to rely on her as my primary source of data. Mysecondary source of data will be internet source. I plan to do myresearch on the government website of the state of Michigan, andnumerous travel and photography websites.

Potential site number 3 will be the cliffs that border Lake Superiorin Michigan. The height is a real thriller for adventure lovers likeme. The location is easily accessible since it is within the state ofMichigan. My primary source of data will be through visiting thelocation. As for my secondary source of information, I will consultwith colleagues who have visited it, and do more research on websitesthat feature the lake.

11. What is your proposed site?:

My proposed site is the Lake Superior cliffs.

12. Are you already familiar with your location, if so how?:

Iam already familiar with the landscape through the beautiful picturesthat I have seen. I have also watched a documentary that touched onthe receding beaches of Lake Superior. My interest in the landscapehas also led me to inquire more information from fellow students whohappen to have visited the site.

13.Give a brief description of what you already know about yourlandscape site:

Ialready know that the main access route to the preferred landscapewith Lake Superior is by bus or taxi. Since I do not have a car, Iwill board a bus to the location. The area is under the protection ofthe government conservancy agencies hence it will require some moneyas entry fee. Over the past few decades, the water levels in LakeSuperior have been reducing drastically due to human overuse.

14. What is the boundary of the site, what defines the boundary?:

Theboundaries of the site are many depending on one’s point of view.Towards the cliffs, which also happens to be my landscape ofinterest, the cliff on the edge of Lake Superior mark the boundary.On the sides that do not have a cliff, dry land marks the boundarybetween the lack and the next ecosystem.

15.Form a hypothesis about the physical characteristics of yourselected site:

Thephysical characters of the cliff are a major attraction to touristsand photographers alike. The height of the cliffs could also be adeterrent to tourists who have a phobia for heights.

16. Form a hypothesis about the economic/political setting of yourselected site:

TheLake Superior is a major economic contributor to the people livingaround it. Economic activities associated with the lake includingfishing and tourism are the backbone of the surrounding community.

17.Form a hypothesis about the social setting of your selected site:

Thelake is creates a scenery for various social interactions. Couplesfrequent the area because of the ambiance it creates.

McGarigal, K., 2012. What is a Landscape? University ofMassachusetts .

Wang Han. Personal Interview, My mother, She visited TaihangMountains severally.

My friend, James Smith, he uses the Mackinac Bridge every opening andclosing of the school semester.

Yourdictionary.com, 2016. Landscape definition. Retrieved from&lthttp://www.yourdictionary.com/landscape&gt accessed May 20,2016.

Descriptive Essay Writing

Descriptive Essay Examples

Barbara P

Amazing Descriptive Essay Examples for Your Help

Published on: Jun 21, 2023

Last updated on: Mar 1, 2024

Descriptive Essay Examples

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Descriptive Essay: Definition, Tips & Examples

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Descriptive essays are very commonly assigned essays. This type of essay enhances students' writing skills and allows them to think critically. 

A descriptive essay is often referred to as the parent essay type. Other essays like argumentative essays, narrative essays, and expository essays fall into descriptive essays. Also, this essay helps the student enhance their ability to imagine the whole scene in mind by appealing senses.

It is assigned to high school students and all other students at different academic levels. Students make use of the human senses like touch, smell, etc., to make the descriptive essay more engaging for the readers. 

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Examples make it easy for readers to understand things in a better way. Also, in a descriptive essay, different types of descriptions can be discussed. 

Here are some amazing examples of a descriptive essay to make the concept easier for you. 

Descriptive Essay Example 5 Paragraph

5 paragraphs essay writing format is the most common method of composing an essay. This format has 5 paragraphs in total. The sequence of the paragraphs is as follows;

  • Introduction
  • Body Paragraph 1
  • Body Paragraph 2 
  • Body Paragraph 3
  • Conclusion 

Following is an example of a descriptive essay written using the famous 5 paragraph method. 

5 Paragraph Descriptive Essay

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Descriptive Essay Example About A Person

Descriptive essays are the best option when it comes to describing and writing about a person.  A descriptive essay is written using the five human senses. It helps in creating a vivid image in the reader’s mind and understanding what the writer is trying to convey. 

Here is one of the best descriptive essay examples about a person. Read it thoroughly and try to understand how a good descriptive essay is written on someone’s personality.

Descriptive Essay Example About a Person

Descriptive Essay Example About A Place

If you have visited a good holiday spot or any other place and want to let your friends know about it. A descriptive essay can help you explain every detail and moment you had at that place. 

Here is one of the good descriptive essay examples about a place. Use it as a sample and learn how you can write such an essay. 

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Descriptive Essay Example for Grade 6

Descriptive essays are frequently assigned to school students. This type of essay helps the students enhance their writing skills and helps them see things in a more analytical way.

If you are a 6 grader and looking for a good descriptive essay example, you are in the right place.  

Descriptive Essay Example for Grade 7

Here is one of the best descriptive essay examples for grade 7. 

Descriptive Essay Example for Grade 8

If you are looking for some amazing descriptive essay examples for grade 8, you have already found one. Look at the given example and see what a well-written descriptive essay looks like. 

Descriptive Essay Example for Grade 10

Essay writing is an inevitable part of a student's academic life . No matter your grade, you will get to write some sort of essay at least once. 

Here is an example of a descriptive essay writing for grade10. If you are also a student of this grade, this example might help you to complete your assignment.

Descriptive Essay Example for Grade 12

If you are a senior student and looking for some essay examples, you are exactly where you should be. 

Use the below-mentioned example and learn how to write a good essay according to the instructions given to you. 

Descriptive Essay Example College

Descriptive essays are a great way to teach students how they can become better writers. Writing a descriptive essay encourages them to see the world more analytically.

Below is an example that will help you and make your writing process easy.

College Descriptive Essay Example

Descriptive Essay Example for University

Descriptive essays are assigned to students at all academic levels. University students are also assigned descriptive essay writing assignments. As they are students of higher educational levels, they are often given a bit of difficult and more descriptive topics. 

See the example below and know what a descriptive essay at the university level looks like. 

Short Descriptive Essay Example

Every time a descriptive essay isn't written in detail. It depends on the topic of how long the essay will be.  

For instance, look at one of the short descriptive essay examples given below. See how the writer has conveyed the concept in a composed way. 

Objective Descriptive Essay Example

When writing an objective description essay, you focus on describing the object without conveying your emotions, feelings, or personal reactions. The writer uses sight, sound, or touch for readers' minds to bring life into pictures that were painted by words.

Here is an example that you can use for your help. 

Narrative and Descriptive Essay Example

A narrative descriptive essay can be a great way to share your experiences with others. It is a story that teaches a lesson you have learned. The following is an example of a perfect narrative descriptive essay to help you get started.

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How to Start a Descriptive Essay? - Example

If you don't know how to start your descriptive essay, check this example and create a perfect one. 

How to Start a Descriptive Essay - Example

Subjective Descriptive Essay Example

It is a common concept that a descriptive essay revolves around one subject. Be it a place, person, event, or any other object you can think of. 

Following is one of the subjective descriptive, easy examples. Use it as a guide to writing an effective descriptive essay yourself. 

Writing a descriptive essay is a time-consuming yet tricky task. It needs some very strong writing, analytical, and critical thinking skills. Also, this is a type of essay that a student can not avoid and bypass. 

But if you think wisely, work smart, and stay calm, you can get over it easily. Learn how to write a descriptive essay from a short guide given below. 

How to Write a Descriptive Essay?

A writer writes a descriptive essay from their knowledge and imaginative mind. In this essay, the writer describes what he has seen or experienced, or ever heard from someone. For a descriptive essay, it is important to stay focused on one point. Also, the writer should use figurative language so that the reader can imagine the situation in mind. 

The following are some very basic yet important steps that can help you write an amazing descriptive essay easily. 

  • Choose a Topic

For a descriptive essay, you must choose a vast topic to allow you to express yourself freely. Also, make sure that the topic you choose is not overdone. An overdone will not grab the attention of your intended audience. Check out our descriptive essay topics blog for a variety of intriguing topic suggestions.

  • Create a Strong Thesis Statement

A thesis statement is the essence of any academic writing. When you select the descriptive essay topic, then you create a strong thesis statement for your essay.  

A thesis statement is a sentence or two that explains the whole idea of your essay to the reader. It is stated in the introductory paragraph of the essay. The word choice for creating the thesis statement must be very expressive, composed, and meaningful. Also, use vivid language for the thesis statement.  

  • Collect the Necessary Information

Once you have created the thesis statement and are done writing your essay introduction . Now, it's time to move toward the body paragraphs. 

Collect all necessary information related to your topic. You would be adding this information to your essay to support your thesis statement. Make sure that you collect information from authentic sources. 

To enhance your essay, make use of some adjectives and adverbs. To make your descriptive essay more vivid, try to incorporate sensory details like touch, taste, sight, and smell.

  • Create a Descriptive Essay Outline

An outline is yet another necessary element of your college essay. By reading the descriptive essay outline , the reader feels a sense of logic and a guide for the essay. 

In the outline, you need to write an introduction, thesis statement, body paragraphs and end up with a formal conclusion.

Proofreading is a simple procedure in which the writer revises the written essay. This is done in order to rectify the document for any kind of spelling or grammatical mistakes. Thus, proofreading makes high-quality content and gives a professional touch to it. 

You might be uncertain about writing a good enough descriptive essay and impress your teacher. However, it is very common, so you do not need to stress out. 

Hit us up at CollegeEssay.org and get an essay written by our professional descriptive essay writers. Our essay writing service for students aims to help clients in every way possible and ease their stress. Get in touch with our customer support team, and they will take care of all your queries related to your writing. 

You can always enhance your writing skills by leveraging the power of our AI essay writing tools .

Place your order now and let all your stress go away in a blink! 

Barbara P (Literature)

Barbara is a highly educated and qualified author with a Ph.D. in public health from an Ivy League university. She has spent a significant amount of time working in the medical field, conducting a thorough study on a variety of health issues. Her work has been published in several major publications.

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The Big List of Essay Topics for High School (120+ Ideas!)

Ideas to inspire every young writer!

What one class should all high schools students be required to take and pass in order to graduate?

High school students generally do a lot of writing, learning to use language clearly, concisely, and persuasively. When it’s time to choose an essay topic, though, it’s easy to come up blank. If that’s the case, check out this huge round-up of essay topics for high school. You’ll find choices for every subject and writing style.

  • Argumentative Essay Topics
  • Cause-and-Effect Essay Topics
  • Compare-Contrast Essay Topics
  • Descriptive Essay Topics
  • Expository and Informative Essay Topics
  • Humorous Essay Topics

Literary Essay Topics

  • Narrative and Personal Essay Topics
  • Personal Essay Topics
  • Persuasive Essay Topics

Research Essay Topics

Argumentative essay topics for high school.

When writing an argumentative essay, remember to do the research and lay out the facts clearly. Your goal is not necessarily to persuade someone to agree with you, but to encourage your reader to accept your point of view as valid. Here are some possible argumentative topics to try. ( Here are 100 more compelling argumentative essay topics. )

  • The most important challenge our country is currently facing is … (e.g., immigration, gun control, economy)
  • The government should provide free internet access for every citizen.
  • All drugs should be legalized, regulated, and taxed.
  • Vaping is less harmful than smoking tobacco.
  • The best country in the world is …
  • Parents should be punished for their minor children’s crimes.
  • Should all students have the ability to attend college for free?
  • Should physical education be part of the standard high school curriculum?

Should physical education be part of the standard high school curriculum?

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  • Schools should require recommended vaccines for all students, with very limited exceptions.
  • Is it acceptable to use animals for experiments and research?
  • Does social media do more harm than good?
  • Capital punishment does/does not deter crime.
  • What one class should all high schools students be required to take and pass in order to graduate?
  • Do we really learn anything from history, or does it just repeat itself over and over?
  • Are men and women treated equally?

Cause-and-Effect Essay Topics for High School

A cause-and-effect essay is a type of argumentative essay. Your goal is to show how one specific thing directly influences another specific thing. You’ll likely need to do some research to make your point. Here are some ideas for cause-and-effect essays. ( Get a big list of 100 cause-and-effect essay topics here. )

  • Humans are causing accelerated climate change.
  • Fast-food restaurants have made human health worse over the decades.
  • What caused World War II? (Choose any conflict for this one.)
  • Describe the effects social media has on young adults.

Describe the effects social media has on young adults.

  • How does playing sports affect people?
  • What are the effects of loving to read?
  • Being an only/oldest/youngest/middle child makes you …
  • What effect does violence in movies or video games have on kids?
  • Traveling to new places opens people’s minds to new ideas.
  • Racism is caused by …

Compare-Contrast Essay Topics for High School

As the name indicates, in compare-and-contrast essays, writers show the similarities and differences between two things. They combine descriptive writing with analysis, making connections and showing dissimilarities. The following ideas work well for compare-contrast essays. ( Find 80+ compare-contrast essay topics for all ages here. )

  • Public and private schools
  • Capitalism vs. communism
  • Monarchy or democracy
  • Dogs vs. cats as pets

Dogs vs. cats as pets

  • Paper books or e-books
  • Two political candidates in a current race
  • Going to college vs. starting work full-time
  • Working your way through college as you go or taking out student loans
  • iPhone or Android
  • Instagram vs. Twitter (or choose any other two social media platforms)

Descriptive Essay Topics for High School

Bring on the adjectives! Descriptive writing is all about creating a rich picture for the reader. Take readers on a journey to far-off places, help them understand an experience, or introduce them to a new person. Remember: Show, don’t tell. These topics make excellent descriptive essays.

  • Who is the funniest person you know?
  • What is your happiest memory?
  • Tell about the most inspirational person in your life.
  • Write about your favorite place.
  • When you were little, what was your favorite thing to do?
  • Choose a piece of art or music and explain how it makes you feel.
  • What is your earliest memory?

What is your earliest memory?

  • What’s the best/worst vacation you’ve ever taken?
  • Describe your favorite pet.
  • What is the most important item in the world to you?
  • Give a tour of your bedroom (or another favorite room in your home).
  • Describe yourself to someone who has never met you.
  • Lay out your perfect day from start to finish.
  • Explain what it’s like to move to a new town or start a new school.
  • Tell what it would be like to live on the moon.

Expository and Informative Essay Topics for High School

Expository essays set out clear explanations of a particular topic. You might be defining a word or phrase or explaining how something works. Expository or informative essays are based on facts, and while you might explore different points of view, you won’t necessarily say which one is “better” or “right.” Remember: Expository essays educate the reader. Here are some expository and informative essay topics to explore. ( See 70+ expository and informative essay topics here. )

  • What makes a good leader?
  • Explain why a given school subject (math, history, science, etc.) is important for students to learn.
  • What is the “glass ceiling” and how does it affect society?
  • Describe how the internet changed the world.
  • What does it mean to be a good teacher?

What does it mean to be a good teacher?

  • Explain how we could colonize the moon or another planet.
  • Discuss why mental health is just as important as physical health.
  • Describe a healthy lifestyle for a teenager.
  • Choose an American president and explain how their time in office affected the country.
  • What does “financial responsibility” mean?

Humorous Essay Topics for High School

Humorous essays can take on any form, like narrative, persuasive, or expository. You might employ sarcasm or satire, or simply tell a story about a funny person or event. Even though these essay topics are lighthearted, they still take some skill to tackle well. Give these ideas a try.

  • What would happen if cats (or any other animal) ruled the world?
  • What do newborn babies wish their parents knew?
  • Explain the best ways to be annoying on social media.
  • Invent a wacky new sport, explain the rules, and describe a game or match.

Explain why it's important to eat dessert first.

  • Imagine a discussion between two historic figures from very different times, like Cleopatra and Queen Elizabeth I.
  • Retell a familiar story in tweets or other social media posts.
  • Describe present-day Earth from an alien’s point of view.
  • Choose a fictional character and explain why they should be the next president.
  • Describe a day when kids are in charge of everything, at school and at home.

Literary essays analyze a piece of writing, like a book or a play. In high school, students usually write literary essays about the works they study in class. These literary essay topic ideas focus on books students often read in high school, but many of them can be tweaked to fit other works as well.

  • Discuss the portrayal of women in Shakespeare’s Othello .
  • Explore the symbolism used in The Scarlet Letter .
  • Explain the importance of dreams in Of Mice and Men .
  • Compare and contrast the romantic relationships in Pride and Prejudice .

Analyze the role of the witches in Macbeth.

  • Dissect the allegory of Animal Farm and its relation to contemporary events.
  • Interpret the author’s take on society and class structure in The Great Gatsby .
  • Explore the relationship between Hamlet and Ophelia.
  • Discuss whether Shakespeare’s portrayal of young love in Romeo and Juliet is accurate.
  • Explain the imagery used in Beowulf .

Narrative and Personal Essay Topics for High School

Think of a narrative essay like telling a story. Use some of the same techniques that you would for a descriptive essay, but be sure you have a beginning, middle, and end. A narrative essay doesn’t necessarily need to be personal, but they often are. Take inspiration from these narrative and personal essay topics.

  • Describe a performance or sporting event you took part in.
  • Explain the process of cooking and eating your favorite meal.
  • Write about meeting your best friend for the first time and how your relationship developed.
  • Tell about learning to ride a bike or drive a car.
  • Describe a time in your life when you’ve been scared.

Write about a time when you or someone you know displayed courage.

  • Share the most embarrassing thing that ever happened to you.
  • Tell about a time when you overcame a big challenge.
  • Tell the story of how you learned an important life lesson.
  • Describe a time when you or someone you know experienced prejudice or oppression.
  • Explain a family tradition, how it developed, and its importance today.
  • What is your favorite holiday? How does your family celebrate it?
  • Retell a familiar story from the point of view of a different character.
  • Describe a time when you had to make a difficult decision.
  • Tell about your proudest moment.

Persuasive Essay Topics for High School

Persuasive essays are similar to argumentative , but they rely less on facts and more on emotion to sway the reader. It’s important to know your audience, so you can anticipate any counterarguments they might make and try to overcome them. Try these topics to persuade someone to come around to your point of view. ( Discover 60 more intriguing persuasive essay topics here. )

  • Do you think homework should be required, optional, or not given at all?
  • Everyone should be vegetarian or vegan.
  • What animal makes the best pet?
  • Visit an animal shelter, choose an animal that needs a home, and write an essay persuading someone to adopt that animal.
  • Who is the world’s best athlete, present or past?
  • Should little kids be allowed to play competitive sports?
  • Are professional athletes/musicians/actors overpaid?
  • The best music genre is …

What is one book that everyone should be required to read?

  • Is democracy the best form of government?
  • Is capitalism the best form of economy?
  • Students should/should not be able to use their phones during the school day.
  • Should schools have dress codes?
  • If I could change one school rule, it would be …
  • Is year-round school a good idea?

A research essay is a classic high school assignment. These papers require deep research into primary source documents, with lots of supporting facts and evidence that’s properly cited. Research essays can be in any of the styles shown above. Here are some possible topics, across a variety of subjects.

  • Which country’s style of government is best for the people who live there?
  • Choose a country and analyze its development from founding to present day.
  • Describe the causes and effects of a specific war.
  • Formulate an ideal economic plan for our country.
  • What scientific discovery has had the biggest impact on life today?

Tell the story of the development of artificial intelligence so far, and describe its impacts along the way.

  • Analyze the way mental health is viewed and treated in this country.
  • Explore the ways systemic racism impacts people in all walks of life.
  • Defend the importance of teaching music and the arts in public schools.
  • Choose one animal from the endangered species list, and propose a realistic plan to protect it.

What are some of your favorite essay topics for high school? Come share your prompts on the WeAreTeachers HELPLINE group on Facebook .

Plus, check out the ultimate guide to student writing contests .

We Are Teachers

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The state of AI in early 2024: Gen AI adoption spikes and starts to generate value

If 2023 was the year the world discovered generative AI (gen AI) , 2024 is the year organizations truly began using—and deriving business value from—this new technology. In the latest McKinsey Global Survey  on AI, 65 percent of respondents report that their organizations are regularly using gen AI, nearly double the percentage from our previous survey just ten months ago. Respondents’ expectations for gen AI’s impact remain as high as they were last year , with three-quarters predicting that gen AI will lead to significant or disruptive change in their industries in the years ahead.

About the authors

This article is a collaborative effort by Alex Singla , Alexander Sukharevsky , Lareina Yee , and Michael Chui , with Bryce Hall , representing views from QuantumBlack, AI by McKinsey, and McKinsey Digital.

Organizations are already seeing material benefits from gen AI use, reporting both cost decreases and revenue jumps in the business units deploying the technology. The survey also provides insights into the kinds of risks presented by gen AI—most notably, inaccuracy—as well as the emerging practices of top performers to mitigate those challenges and capture value.

AI adoption surges

Interest in generative AI has also brightened the spotlight on a broader set of AI capabilities. For the past six years, AI adoption by respondents’ organizations has hovered at about 50 percent. This year, the survey finds that adoption has jumped to 72 percent (Exhibit 1). And the interest is truly global in scope. Our 2023 survey found that AI adoption did not reach 66 percent in any region; however, this year more than two-thirds of respondents in nearly every region say their organizations are using AI. 1 Organizations based in Central and South America are the exception, with 58 percent of respondents working for organizations based in Central and South America reporting AI adoption. Looking by industry, the biggest increase in adoption can be found in professional services. 2 Includes respondents working for organizations focused on human resources, legal services, management consulting, market research, R&D, tax preparation, and training.

Also, responses suggest that companies are now using AI in more parts of the business. Half of respondents say their organizations have adopted AI in two or more business functions, up from less than a third of respondents in 2023 (Exhibit 2).

Gen AI adoption is most common in the functions where it can create the most value

Most respondents now report that their organizations—and they as individuals—are using gen AI. Sixty-five percent of respondents say their organizations are regularly using gen AI in at least one business function, up from one-third last year. The average organization using gen AI is doing so in two functions, most often in marketing and sales and in product and service development—two functions in which previous research  determined that gen AI adoption could generate the most value 3 “ The economic potential of generative AI: The next productivity frontier ,” McKinsey, June 14, 2023. —as well as in IT (Exhibit 3). The biggest increase from 2023 is found in marketing and sales, where reported adoption has more than doubled. Yet across functions, only two use cases, both within marketing and sales, are reported by 15 percent or more of respondents.

Gen AI also is weaving its way into respondents’ personal lives. Compared with 2023, respondents are much more likely to be using gen AI at work and even more likely to be using gen AI both at work and in their personal lives (Exhibit 4). The survey finds upticks in gen AI use across all regions, with the largest increases in Asia–Pacific and Greater China. Respondents at the highest seniority levels, meanwhile, show larger jumps in the use of gen Al tools for work and outside of work compared with their midlevel-management peers. Looking at specific industries, respondents working in energy and materials and in professional services report the largest increase in gen AI use.

Investments in gen AI and analytical AI are beginning to create value

The latest survey also shows how different industries are budgeting for gen AI. Responses suggest that, in many industries, organizations are about equally as likely to be investing more than 5 percent of their digital budgets in gen AI as they are in nongenerative, analytical-AI solutions (Exhibit 5). Yet in most industries, larger shares of respondents report that their organizations spend more than 20 percent on analytical AI than on gen AI. Looking ahead, most respondents—67 percent—expect their organizations to invest more in AI over the next three years.

Where are those investments paying off? For the first time, our latest survey explored the value created by gen AI use by business function. The function in which the largest share of respondents report seeing cost decreases is human resources. Respondents most commonly report meaningful revenue increases (of more than 5 percent) in supply chain and inventory management (Exhibit 6). For analytical AI, respondents most often report seeing cost benefits in service operations—in line with what we found last year —as well as meaningful revenue increases from AI use in marketing and sales.

Inaccuracy: The most recognized and experienced risk of gen AI use

As businesses begin to see the benefits of gen AI, they’re also recognizing the diverse risks associated with the technology. These can range from data management risks such as data privacy, bias, or intellectual property (IP) infringement to model management risks, which tend to focus on inaccurate output or lack of explainability. A third big risk category is security and incorrect use.

Respondents to the latest survey are more likely than they were last year to say their organizations consider inaccuracy and IP infringement to be relevant to their use of gen AI, and about half continue to view cybersecurity as a risk (Exhibit 7).

Conversely, respondents are less likely than they were last year to say their organizations consider workforce and labor displacement to be relevant risks and are not increasing efforts to mitigate them.

In fact, inaccuracy— which can affect use cases across the gen AI value chain , ranging from customer journeys and summarization to coding and creative content—is the only risk that respondents are significantly more likely than last year to say their organizations are actively working to mitigate.

Some organizations have already experienced negative consequences from the use of gen AI, with 44 percent of respondents saying their organizations have experienced at least one consequence (Exhibit 8). Respondents most often report inaccuracy as a risk that has affected their organizations, followed by cybersecurity and explainability.

Our previous research has found that there are several elements of governance that can help in scaling gen AI use responsibly, yet few respondents report having these risk-related practices in place. 4 “ Implementing generative AI with speed and safety ,” McKinsey Quarterly , March 13, 2024. For example, just 18 percent say their organizations have an enterprise-wide council or board with the authority to make decisions involving responsible AI governance, and only one-third say gen AI risk awareness and risk mitigation controls are required skill sets for technical talent.

Bringing gen AI capabilities to bear

The latest survey also sought to understand how, and how quickly, organizations are deploying these new gen AI tools. We have found three archetypes for implementing gen AI solutions : takers use off-the-shelf, publicly available solutions; shapers customize those tools with proprietary data and systems; and makers develop their own foundation models from scratch. 5 “ Technology’s generational moment with generative AI: A CIO and CTO guide ,” McKinsey, July 11, 2023. Across most industries, the survey results suggest that organizations are finding off-the-shelf offerings applicable to their business needs—though many are pursuing opportunities to customize models or even develop their own (Exhibit 9). About half of reported gen AI uses within respondents’ business functions are utilizing off-the-shelf, publicly available models or tools, with little or no customization. Respondents in energy and materials, technology, and media and telecommunications are more likely to report significant customization or tuning of publicly available models or developing their own proprietary models to address specific business needs.

Respondents most often report that their organizations required one to four months from the start of a project to put gen AI into production, though the time it takes varies by business function (Exhibit 10). It also depends upon the approach for acquiring those capabilities. Not surprisingly, reported uses of highly customized or proprietary models are 1.5 times more likely than off-the-shelf, publicly available models to take five months or more to implement.

Gen AI high performers are excelling despite facing challenges

Gen AI is a new technology, and organizations are still early in the journey of pursuing its opportunities and scaling it across functions. So it’s little surprise that only a small subset of respondents (46 out of 876) report that a meaningful share of their organizations’ EBIT can be attributed to their deployment of gen AI. Still, these gen AI leaders are worth examining closely. These, after all, are the early movers, who already attribute more than 10 percent of their organizations’ EBIT to their use of gen AI. Forty-two percent of these high performers say more than 20 percent of their EBIT is attributable to their use of nongenerative, analytical AI, and they span industries and regions—though most are at organizations with less than $1 billion in annual revenue. The AI-related practices at these organizations can offer guidance to those looking to create value from gen AI adoption at their own organizations.

To start, gen AI high performers are using gen AI in more business functions—an average of three functions, while others average two. They, like other organizations, are most likely to use gen AI in marketing and sales and product or service development, but they’re much more likely than others to use gen AI solutions in risk, legal, and compliance; in strategy and corporate finance; and in supply chain and inventory management. They’re more than three times as likely as others to be using gen AI in activities ranging from processing of accounting documents and risk assessment to R&D testing and pricing and promotions. While, overall, about half of reported gen AI applications within business functions are utilizing publicly available models or tools, gen AI high performers are less likely to use those off-the-shelf options than to either implement significantly customized versions of those tools or to develop their own proprietary foundation models.

What else are these high performers doing differently? For one thing, they are paying more attention to gen-AI-related risks. Perhaps because they are further along on their journeys, they are more likely than others to say their organizations have experienced every negative consequence from gen AI we asked about, from cybersecurity and personal privacy to explainability and IP infringement. Given that, they are more likely than others to report that their organizations consider those risks, as well as regulatory compliance, environmental impacts, and political stability, to be relevant to their gen AI use, and they say they take steps to mitigate more risks than others do.

Gen AI high performers are also much more likely to say their organizations follow a set of risk-related best practices (Exhibit 11). For example, they are nearly twice as likely as others to involve the legal function and embed risk reviews early on in the development of gen AI solutions—that is, to “ shift left .” They’re also much more likely than others to employ a wide range of other best practices, from strategy-related practices to those related to scaling.

In addition to experiencing the risks of gen AI adoption, high performers have encountered other challenges that can serve as warnings to others (Exhibit 12). Seventy percent say they have experienced difficulties with data, including defining processes for data governance, developing the ability to quickly integrate data into AI models, and an insufficient amount of training data, highlighting the essential role that data play in capturing value. High performers are also more likely than others to report experiencing challenges with their operating models, such as implementing agile ways of working and effective sprint performance management.

About the research

The online survey was in the field from February 22 to March 5, 2024, and garnered responses from 1,363 participants representing the full range of regions, industries, company sizes, functional specialties, and tenures. Of those respondents, 981 said their organizations had adopted AI in at least one business function, and 878 said their organizations were regularly using gen AI in at least one function. To adjust for differences in response rates, the data are weighted by the contribution of each respondent’s nation to global GDP.

Alex Singla and Alexander Sukharevsky  are global coleaders of QuantumBlack, AI by McKinsey, and senior partners in McKinsey’s Chicago and London offices, respectively; Lareina Yee  is a senior partner in the Bay Area office, where Michael Chui , a McKinsey Global Institute partner, is a partner; and Bryce Hall  is an associate partner in the Washington, DC, office.

They wish to thank Kaitlin Noe, Larry Kanter, Mallika Jhamb, and Shinjini Srivastava for their contributions to this work.

This article was edited by Heather Hanselman, a senior editor in McKinsey’s Atlanta office.

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    How to Describe a Landscape. July 8, 2011 by Jacqui Murray 52 Comments. They are many and varied, so I'll just touch on each. These, as usual, come from writing I admire, so don't copy them. Use them to inspire your own creativity: Open land. Flat, dry, and monotonous, a seemingly limitless scrub waste without landmarks or water or other ...

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