A definition essay is one in which the writer defines a topic or idea and discusses it at great length. In definition essays, writers are expected to provide a personal commentary that expounds on the meaning of the topic or the importance of the idea.
A compare and contrast essay is a form of expository essay in which the writer discusses and explores ideas by analyzing similarities and differences between two or more ideas.
In an example essay, the writer provides evidence and support, or examples, to explore the validity of a claim or an idea.
Writers analyze causal relationships in cause and effect essays, which explore how one event might cause another.