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120 Descriptive Essay Topics: The Easiest Way of Writing a Descriptive Essay

Updated 07 Oct 2024

Assignments and descriptive essays are issues every student faces during studying period. Even if it's extremely hard to complete everything your professor gave you, you still have to learn how to write in different styles, meet all the requirements, including all the essentials you need to have in your text. We all have our own tips and tricks to carry through the assignment period, and we all are professionals in our own type of paper.

If you ask a college student to name the easiest type of paper, he would probably recall a descriptive essay. But what is a descriptive essay and why is it so simple to write? We’re here to help you out on that question and give you additional descriptive essay topics to make your college life easier with a great range of assistance from our essay writing service . And if you are willing to pay for college essay and want a descriptive essay writer to help you, you are very welcome to click the "Hire writer" button at the top of this page.

how to write a Descriptive Essay

What is a Descriptive Essay and How Does it Differ from a Simple Description?

The main goal of the description essay is to describe something, be it a person, a situation or just something you want to tell people about. While writing this type of descriptive essay, you have to compose the text using your own experience and thoughts. No researches, no outer opinions, just your mind, and your head. Only sensory information is used to understand the descriptive topic. The description of the things is clear and simple. Imagination, though, creates pictures in the head of the reader, which makes this experience unique and personified.

It would make sense to start the introduction with a description of the context of the subject on which the entire description would focus. Doing so puts things into perspective for the reader.

How does it differ from a description? A simple description can be just several sentences or one long paragraph, while a descriptive essay usually contains five paragraphs. It has its style and includes a thesis in an introduction, three body paragraphs, and a conclusion.

What are descriptive essay elements?

Unlike daily descriptions people share without much effort, description essays are well-structured pieces of text that require students show their creativity and language mastery. Descriptions include many details, appeal to readers’ senses through imagery and dynamic speech.

Although this type of essay writing is rather challenging, it is worth trying. While participating in creative writing process, students develop their writing skills and become more attentive to details. Unlike other essay kinds, descriptive essays usually don’t require students search for evidence from credible sources, although this depends on student’s topic and academic level.

Illustrations make students reflect on their own experiences more closely. Such writing activities teach us share our own thoughts and feelings with others more effectively. Given that such essays make such a great contribution to students’ creativity and writing skills, here are some guidelines on how to write a descriptive essay.

Coming up with Ideas

In descriptive essay assignments, professors often provide students with freedom of choice: students decide on their own what to describe. Lists of possible topics are virtually unlimited, as students write about whatever they are interested in. As you have chosen your individual topic, it is time to think about text organization.

What are the four types of essays?

Descriptive essay is one of four major types of academic essays. Others include narrative essay, expository essay, and persuasive essay. These essays are differentiated into separate types because of particular purposes each of them pursues.

As any other college-level paper, description essay has introduction with thesis statement, body, and conclusion. If you wonder how to start a descriptive essay, start with comprehending its basic structure.

How do you write an introduction for a descriptive essay?

In the introductory paragraph, students should introduce their topic, clarifying their intent for the whole essay. Thesis statement here works as a guide, explaining contents that follow. In it, students directly state what they describe, revealing their own impressions and some reasons for holding such views.

As for body paragraphs, several approaches are possible. When considering how to write a descriptive paragraph, students provide list-like descriptions. They reveal details about the object, event, or person in a point-by-point manner. They can think of some simple plot that will keep readers interested in the topic.

In both cases, students should use lots of sensory details, keeping their illustrations interesting. In the concluding paragraph, students should reassert their impressions about described object or person, briefly reflecting on the content of essay.

What Can You Describe?

There are plenty of topics one may consider when professor assigns description writing. Here are the most common description topics:

  • Human  –  talk about people, their characters, appearances, or abilities and capabilities; reflect on their own experiences related to particular people (for instance, how particular person influenced one’s choices or decisions)
  • Place essay – in illustrations of places, tell about their own homes, restaurants, libraries, schools, or any other places that somehow impressed them. In these essays, appeal to senses by showing how places look, make one feel, or sound.
  • Event – appeal to any relevant sense, while telling about events. The list of possible events is unlimited; it may include family vacations, rock concerts, or any other memorable (or not) activity.
  • Animal – talk about pets or animals you feel passionate about. Acknowledge your own experiences, thoughts, feelings when presenting details.
  • Memory essay – writers may reflect on their memories, describing something that happened long ago or someone they knew in the past. Unlike person or event illustrations, these essays primarily discuss one’s memories.
  • Experience – in these illustrations, authors basically describe themselves by revealing their own experiences and showing some personal outcomes they produced. Cultural identity essay can take a form of experience description.
  • Occupation essay – here, try revealing details that distinguish particular occupation from other occupations.
  • Behavior – talk about behaviors of people, animals, species, or whole nations. There are truly dozens of options!

No matter which kind of description you are planning to complete, we’ve listed some simple steps and useful tips that makes the assignment completion much easier.

How to Write a Descriptive Essay Step-by-Step

When writing a descriptive essay, consider organizing your work in the following manner. If you organize your writing following these several steps, it will save your time and make writing easier:

  • Step 1. Select your subject, create a topic.

For writing a really appealing paper, you should have a clear picture in mind. Try relating to your personal experiences, clearly imagining that restaurant you liked most, or a good friend of yours, or any other subject as task guidelines demand. Mind that the best topic is the one that is interesting for you. If you have difficulties coming up with a topic, use some descriptive essay topics EduBirdie has already prepared for your convenience.

  • Step 2. Develop a thesis statement.

Consider your notes and develop a thesis statement for descriptive essay. Make sure your thesis statement has two components: statement about the described subject and reasons supporting it. In the statement part, provide your own evaluation of place, person, or another described subject and then briefly explain what exactly makes you arrive at such conclusions. For instance, instead of just saying that Sarah is a really good friend, briefly explain why.

  • Step 3. Select specific details.

Whether you are describing a person, place, experience, or any other subject, think of major impressions this subject often produces on you. What do you particularly like or appreciate about it? Which features of this subject do you find especially interesting? For instance, if you think about describing a restaurant; in the first place, decide whether you believe it is a good or bad place. Then think of particular reasons that make you hold such an assumption. Make notes of both your major impressions and corresponding features of described subject.

  • Step 4. Create an outline.

When you came up with an idea, for instance, descriptive essay about a place, and listed some features you’d like to discuss in the essay, create detailed outline.

How do you write descriptive essay outline?

It is particularly convenient when students create detailed outlines. Such outlines should list all the information they plan including in their essays: their thesis statement, topic sentences, several supporting details, and concluding sentences for each of the body paragraphs, and a thesis restatement for a concluding paragraph.

  • Step 5. Write a draft, following your outline.

Using outlines, students will easily complete their first drafts: it is enough presenting all the information from an outline in an essay format. At this stage, pay attention to details you’d like to describe rather than to your writing style. Remember that this draft is not an essay yet. It is more like a skeleton of your future paper.

  • Step 6. Polish your essay, adding more imagery.

Re-read your draft and now concentrate on your writing style. Mind that descriptive essays are not about telling, but rather about showing. Rather than just stating that the restaurant is good, try showing it to readers by appealing to their senses. It is not necessary to appeal to all six senses, instead employ your own experience and choose senses that are most relevant to your topic.

You wouldn’t appreciate a cat description, in which authors appeal to taste, would you? Students achieve significant effect by adding imagery and dynamic language to their drafts.

  • Step 7. Proofread and format your final paper.

After adding all the imagery and making sure that writing style and speech topics are appropriate, proofread your text and format it in accordance with professor’s requirements. Usually, MLA formatting works well for this kind of essays, especially if you are a student at one of the US colleges. If you have doubts regarding formatting or need help with proofreading, writers on the platform will gladly provide affordable editing services.

To further enhance your skills and gain inspiration, it's beneficial to explore a descriptive essay example, which can serve as a valuable reference and provide insights into effective descriptive writing techniques.

Tips for a Great Description

How to Write a Descriptive Essay

Image credit: Yourdictionary

Here are some descriptive writing tips you may use to ensure the best outcomes. Worthy descriptive essays are virtually impossible without the following:

  • Appeal to different senses

Rather than simply listing characteristics or features of the described person or object, include vivid sensory details. By appealing to senses, show details that produce impressions rather than tell about them.

  • Pay attention to word choice, use dynamic speech

It is important to use descriptive language in the text. This small example illustrates that word choice matters a lot in such essays. Consider two sentences: Teacher entered the classroom. and Teacher stormed into the classroom. In the first sentence, neutral word is used (entered), and it is impossible to make any assumptions about teacher.

In the second sentence, word choice (stormed) definitely adds some emotional value, because one can conclude that teacher has some particular mood. Try to substitute neutral verbs with more dynamic alternatives in your text.

  • Refer to your own experiences

The most appealing descriptions are those in which writers share their emotions. Thus, when describing, try to show how described subject makes you feel.

  • Add moment-by-moment descriptions

They are very appealing, especially when students add some humorous or horror details. Depending on the purpose of your writing, you can talk about your own experience in such a manner (for instance, your last dentist visit).

  • Use similes and metaphors, among other imagery

Add imagery to your story and use figures of speech like similes and metaphors. Comparing things, objects, and people with other things, objects, or people is very effective.

  • But avoid overused similes (which are also known as clichés)

However, avoid overusing clichés like as cold as ice, straight as an arrow, or run like the wind among others. When used too often, such similes simply lose their effect. So while writing a descriptive essay, look for more creative options.

  • Gather enough information

Depending on the topic, be it descriptive speech topic, social issues topic , or process essay topic , it may be necessary to do the research. Sometimes, students just don’t have enough personal experience to compose truly appealing illustrations. Good research though provides the lacking insight.

  • Cite all sources

Students should cite all the information they borrow from sources. If they won’t do so, plagiarism accusations follow.

The 120 Descriptive Essay Topics for Every Struggling Student

When you can’t choose your own descriptive topic, you can always find descriptive writing topics on the web and choose one for your theme. There are several things you can write about as an author so you have to decide if it will be about a place you’ve visited, a person you know or something completely different. If you're seeking inspiration and guidance, don't forget to look at descriptive essay examples, which can provide valuable insights into different approaches and help you refine your own writing skills. In any case, here are our topics for descriptive essays for struggling students.

Topics to describe a place

  • The serene beauty of a mountain retreat.
  • A bustling metropolitan city at night.
  • The tranquil shores of a secluded beach.
  • The historical charm of an ancient castle.
  • The vibrant life of a rainforest.
  • The eerie silence of a deserted house.
  • The festive atmosphere of a carnival.
  • The architectural marvel of a famous landmark.
  • The cozy ambiance of a favorite café.
  • The stark landscape of a desert.
  • The bustling corridors of an airport.
  • The mystical aura of a religious site.
  • The picturesque scenery of a countryside village.
  • The chaotic energy of a marketplace.
  • The technological wonder of a space station.
  • The tranquil beauty of a Japanese garden.
  • The frozen expanse of an arctic glacier.
  • The cultural vibrancy of a street festival.
  • The solemn atmosphere of a cemetery at dusk.
  • The magical world of a theme park.

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If you want to describe a person

  • A mentor who has shaped your life.
  • A historical figure you admire.
  • A family member with a unique trait.
  • A stranger who caught your attention.
  • An artist in the midst of creation.
  • A leader facing a moment of decision.
  • A friend who makes you laugh.
  • A character from a book that has stayed with you.
  • An athlete in the zone during a competition.
  • A teacher who inspired a love of learning.
  • A child experiencing wonder.
  • A craftsman perfecting their art.
  • A musician lost in their music.
  • A chef creating a culinary masterpiece.
  • A scientist on the brink of discovery.
  • A traveler exploring new lands.
  • A hero during a moment of bravery.
  • A villain with a complex motive.
  • An actor transforming into a role.
  • A person experiencing joy in simple pleasures.

Memories and topics about experience

  • Your first day at school.
  • A moment that changed your perspective.
  • An adventure that tested your limits.
  • A lesson learned the hard way.
  • The joy of achieving a long-sought goal.
  • The bittersweet feeling of saying goodbye.
  • An encounter with nature that left you awestruck.
  • A cultural experience that broadened your understanding.
  • The excitement of discovering something new.
  • The warmth of a family tradition.
  • Overcoming a fear.
  • A moment of unexpected kindness.
  • The challenge of learning a new skill.
  • The tranquility of a solitary walk.
  • The thrill of a roller coaster ride.
  • The satisfaction of completing a difficult task.
  • A time when you stood up for what you believe in.
  • The comfort of a familiar scent or sound.
  • The exhilaration of a spontaneous road trip.
  • The peace of a reflective moment alone.

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Things and object in life

  • The intricate design of a snowflake.
  • The worn pages of a beloved book.
  • The vibrant colors of a sunset.
  • The sleek design of a modern smartphone.
  • The rustic charm of an antique clock.
  • The comforting warmth of a winter coat.
  • The delicate fragrance of a blooming flower.
  • The rugged texture of a mountain rock.
  • The soft glow of candlelight.
  • The chaotic beauty of a painter's palette.
  • The steady rhythm of a ticking clock.
  • The ancient mystery of a fossil.
  • The festive decorations of a holiday season.
  • The protective embrace of a family home.
  • The refreshing coolness of a glass of water.
  • The joyful chaos of a child's toy room.
  • The solemn dignity of a war memorial.
  • The innovative simplicity of a paperclip.
  • The relentless power of a storm.
  • The hopeful promise of a sunrise.

Hobbies, processes, and occupations

  • The meticulous art of model building.
  • The rhythmic process of knitting.
  • The adrenaline rush of skydiving.
  • The creative flow of writing a novel.
  • The precision of a surgeon at work.
  • The strategic mind of a chess player.
  • The harmonious movement of a ballet dancer.
  • The culinary magic of baking bread.
  • The ancient practice of calligraphy.
  • The challenging journey of learning a new language.
  • The transformative process of restoring a classic car.
  • The patient cultivation of a garden.
  • The dynamic action of firefighting.
  • The insightful analysis of a psychologist.
  • The adventurous spirit of a travel blogger.
  • The skilled craftsmanship of a jeweler.
  • The analytical approach of a software developer.
  • The nurturing care of a pediatric nurse.
  • The artistic vision of a fashion designer.
  • The investigative curiosity of a journalist.

Behavior and character

  • The resilience of a person overcoming adversity.
  • The infectious enthusiasm of a motivational speaker.
  • The quiet strength of a leader in crisis.
  • The boundless creativity of an inventor.
  • The compassionate heart of a volunteer.
  • The unwavering loyalty of a lifelong friend.
  • The meticulous attention to detail of an artist.
  • The fearless determination of an activist.
  • The gentle kindness of a stranger.
  • The disciplined focus of an athlete in training.
  • The playful mischief of a prankster.
  • The profound wisdom of an elder.
  • The infectious laughter of a joyful child.
  • The steely resolve of a soldier.
  • The humble gratitude of someone receiving help.
  • The fierce independence of a solo traveler.
  • The deep empathy of a therapist.
  • The relentless ambition of an entrepreneur.
  • The serene calmness of a meditation instructor.
  • The passionate intensity of a performer on stage.
Read also: 60 Exemplification essay Topics With Bonus Tips

Don't forget that your descriptive topic reflexes the main reason why you decided to write your essay. You should convey your individual feelings and describe this main point to your readers. Follow the structure, use your ideas and everything will be alright with your future essay. You can use topic sentence generator ! Our professional descriptive essay helpers will be glad to help you with your homework. Good luck!

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Written by David Kidwell

David is one of those experienced content creators from the United Kingdom who has a high interest in social issues, culture, and entrepreneurship. He always says that reading, blogging, and staying aware of what happens in the world is what makes a person responsible. He likes to learn and share what he knows by making things inspiring and creative enough even for those students who dislike reading.

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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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descriptive essay ideas

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.

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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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50 Descriptive Essay Topics

Make your reader see, smell, hear and feel with these inspirational descriptive essay topics ! We’ve collected 50 descriptive essay topics to sprout some flowery language. Our descriptive essay topics are designed to spark creative thinking and can be modified for students in elementary, middle and high school. They are grouped by topic for easy student and teacher reference. Feel free to print the entire list for plenty of inspiration for your next descriptive essay assignment!

Descriptive Essay Topics: Place

  • Describe your favorite place.
  • Describe your ideal bedroom.
  • Describe the house in which you grew up.
  • Describe what the first house on the moon would look like.
  • Describe some of your favorite places in your hometown.
  • Describe a peaceful place that you’ve visited.
  • Describe a place that exists only in your imagination.
  • Describe a friend’s or family member’s house where you enjoy spending time.
  • Describe your perfect fantasy vacation destination.
  • Describe your favorite store.
  • Describe your favorite teacher’s classroom.
  • Describe a museum that you’ve visited recently.
  • Describe a place you have dreamed about that doesn’t exist in real life.
  • Describe a place where your pet likes spending time.
  • Describe an outdoor place that you know well.

Descriptive Essay Topics: People

  • Describe your favorite person.
  • Describe each of your family members.
  • Describe a famous person that you would like to meet.
  • Describe one of your friends.
  • Describe one aspect of someone that you like (for example: laugh, style of dress, words that the person likes to use, etc.)
  • Describe yourself to someone who has never met you.
  • Describe the average human to an alien who has never before seen a person.
  • Describe your pet.
  • Look at some old family photos and describe an older family member as he or she was when at your age.
  • Describe someone whom you miss.

Descriptive Essay Topics: Objects

  • Describe an object that is special to you.
  • Give a tour of one room in your house by describing the most important objects in that room.
  • Describe one of your favorite outfits.
  • Describe your favorite toy as a child.
  • Describe how you get around (for example: a bicycle, skateboard, sneakers, your parents’ car, the school bus).
  • Describe your favorite piece of furniture where you like to spend time and relax.
  • Describe something that you would bury in a time capsule to tell people about what life is like today.
  • Describe an object that has been in your family for a long time.
  • Choose a piece of food to eat; then, write a description of it that includes the way it looks, smells and tastes.
  • Describe a smartphone to a time traveler from the 1900s.

Descriptive Essay Topics: Memories

  • Describe your oldest memory.
  • Describe your best summer vacation.
  • Describe a memorable concert you attended.
  • Describe a memorable trip you took.
  • Describe a special time that you and your family had together.
  • Describe the first time you met one of your friends.
  • Describe a time you met someone famous.
  • Describe one of your happiest memories.
  • Describe one of your saddest memories.
  • Describe a time that you felt scared.
  • Describe a time that you felt excited.
  • Describe a time that something totally unexpected happened.
  • Describe a memory of someone whom you miss.
  • Describe one of your most memorable first days of school.
  • Describe one of your most embarrassing moments.

Looking for more essay topics? Compare and Contrast Essay Topics Cause and Effect Essay Topics Narrative Essay Topics Persuasive Essay and Speech Topics

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A descriptive essay paints a vivid picture through words, capturing intricate details, sensory experiences, and emotions. That is why selecting the right topic is crucial to creating a stimulating reader experience when writing this type of essay . 

A descriptive essay topic should evoke touch, smell, sight, sound, and taste to contribute to the essay's success in conveying a vivid image. So, picking the right topic needs to be done correctly and carefully. 

In this blog, we'll explore various interesting topics to spark your creativity and enhance your descriptive writing skills. Read the blog if you are looking for some interesting descriptive essay ideas.

Let's dig in!

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Descriptive Essay Topics: Favorite Things And Activities

  • Describing the ritual of Sunday morning pancake breakfasts
  • The comfort of a well-worn reading nook
  • A walk through the blossoming rose garden
  • Exploring the delights of stargazing
  • The joy of crafting personalized handwritten letters
  • Describing the thrill of a roller coaster ride
  • The tranquil routine of sunset yoga by the seashore: a mindful retreat.
  • A culinary adventure in the kitchen
  • The excitement of exploring antique markets
  • Describing the cozy atmosphere of a family movie night

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Descriptive Essay Topics: Geography And Traveling

  • Navigating the hidden gems of an ancient city
  • Describing the mesmerizing colors of a remote tropical sunset.
  • ?Journey through the dynamic landscapes of a national park
  • The bustling energy of a local bazaar
  • Exploring the mysteries of an underwater cave
  • A descriptive study of traditional architecture in a foreign country.
  • Describing the rich cultural tapestry of a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
  • The awe-inspiring beauty of the Northern Lights
  • A descriptive exploration of the diverse flora and fauna in a rainforest.
  • The tranquil serenity of a remote desert oasis

Descriptive Essay Topics: Memories And Associations

  • Unraveling the nostalgia of childhood hide-and-seek games
  • Describing the aroma of Grandma's kitchen
  • A walk down memory lane
  • The timeless melody of a family heirloom
  • Recalling the excitement of a first day at school
  • A descriptive exploration of a sentimental family photograph album.
  • The echoes of laughter in an old family home
  • Describing the texture of a childhood blanket
  • A day in the life of a cherished childhood toy
  • The significance of a faded ticket stub

Descriptive Essay Topics: Philosophy, Science, And Religion

  • Describing the intersection of science and spirituality
  • The philosophy of time
  • The ethical implications of genetic engineering
  • Describing the metaphysical aspects of quantum physics
  • The philosophy of consciousness
  • Navigating the intersection of religion and environmental ethics
  • Describing the aesthetics of mathematics
  • The philosophy of mind-body dualism
  • Exploring the ethical dimensions of artificial intelligence
  • Describing the role of rituals in religious practices

Descriptive Essay Topics: Tv, Literature, Art

  • Describing the impact of television on modern culture
  • The artistry of surrealistic paintings
  • A literary analysis of dystopian fiction
  • The evolution of TV series finales
  • Describing the symbolism in classic literature
  • The influences of pop art on contemporary visual culture
  • A descriptive exploration of magical realism in literature
  • The cinematic world of film noir
  • The impact of digital media on traditional art forms
  • Describing the multifaceted characters in a favorite TV drama

Descriptive Essay Topics: History

  • A descriptive exploration of ancient civilizations
  • The historical significance of a local landmark
  • Describing the impact of a historical invention on society
  • A journey through the streets of a historical city
  • The role of women in a historical revolution
  • Describing the cultural exchange along the Silk Road
  • The influence of historical wars on art and literature
  • A descriptive study of everyday life in a historical period
  • The economic evolution of a historical trading port
  • Describing the architectural marvels of a historical era

Descriptive Essay Topics: Daily Life

  • A descriptive analysis of morning routines
  • Describing the culinary delights of a family dinner
  • The tranquil routine of evening strolls
  • A day in the life of a remote worker
  • Describing the bustling energy of a local market
  • The sounds and sights of a city commute
  • A descriptive exploration of weekend rituals
  • The comforts of home
  • The dynamics of family game night
  • Describing the joys and challenges of parenthood

Descriptive Essay Topics: Professions

  • Describing the real-life struggles of a firefighter
  • The precision of a surgical theatre
  • A day in the life of a wildlife photographer
  • Describing the challenges of a humanitarian aid worker
  • The creative chaos of a graphic designer's studio
  • A descriptive exploration of archaeology
  • The rhythm of a musician's practice
  • Describing the dynamic world of event planning
  • The artistry of culinary professions
  • A day in the shoes of a space scientist

Descriptive Essay Topics for Students

Before selecting the topic for a descriptive essay, make sure it tells the reader about the essay. Here, we have compiled a list of topics for students from different academic levels to write a good essay.

Descriptive Essay Topics for University Students

  • Exploring the intricate details of an ancient architectural masterpiece.
  • Describing the rich biodiversity within a pristine rainforest ecosystem.
  • Painting a verbal picture of the subatomic realms in quantum physics.
  • Unveiling the diverse cultures thriving in a bustling urban landscape.
  • Crafting a vivid portrayal of a serene sunset atop a remote mountain peak.
  • Delving into the marvels of the human brain through descriptive language.
  • Illuminating the traditional artisan crafts that persist in a globalized world.
  • Indulging the senses in a descriptive exploration of global culinary delights.
  • Detailing the silent witnesses to history in centuries-old trees of ancient woodlands.
  • Capturing the awe-inspiring beauty of a starlit night sky in the cosmos.

Descriptive Essay Topics for College Students

  • Analyzing details in modern art installations for a descriptive study.
  • Exploring visual and textural aspects of urban graffiti.
  • Describing light and shadow in contemporary photography.
  • Investigating the unseen microorganism world descriptively.
  • Experiencing sensory delights at an open-air market.
  • Unraveling the urban soundscape
  • Navigating fashion trend evolution
  • Describing subtle expressions in dance: Body language and emotion.
  • Capturing rustic charm in forgotten countryside villages verbally.
  • Inside a musician's mind: describing creative processes.

Descriptive Essay Topics for High School

  • Exploring the impact of social media on teenage identity.
  • A day in the life of a local ecological reserve.
  • The intricacies of high school subcultures.
  • The sounds of a high school cafeteria.
  • Describing the journey of a historical figure.
  • A walk through a local farmer's market.
  • The essence of high school sports events.
  • The artistry of a high school theater production.
  • Describing the charm of a historical landmark in your community.
  • A descriptive exploration of a science fair.

Descriptive Essay Topics for Middle School

  • Exploring historical marvels: artifacts revealing tales.
  • Pet escapades: a day in furry companions' life.
  • Neighborhood park enchantment: a magical nature journey.
  • Middle school science buzz: the thrill of experiments.
  • Vibrant carnival world: an adventure of colors.
  • Fire station dynamics: heroes in action unfold.
  • Intriguing library ambiance: a study in fascination.
  • Cosmic wonders unveiled: a descriptive journey.
  • Mural masterpieces: creativity painted on walls.
  • Historical event unraveling: past tales brought alive.

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Descriptive Essay Topics for Different Grades

The selection of a good descriptive essay topic is a difficult task for school students. Have a look at the following list of topics.

Descriptive Essay Topics For Grade 4

  • A magical day in a candy wonderland
  • The curious adventures of friendly robots
  • Exploring the whimsical world of talking animals
  • My enchanted garden
  • A day in the life of a silly superhero
  • The mystical kingdom under my bed
  • Describing the colorful personalities of classroom pets.
  • The incredible journey of my lost toy
  • A picnic with alien friends
  • The rainbow circus

Descriptive Essay Topics for Grade 6

  • A funny memory
  • Your favorite item of clothing
  • Performing in front of a crowd
  • Your lucky charm
  • Your favorite movie
  • Your worst nightmare
  • The perfect day on the beach
  • An embarrassing moment
  • The perfect meal for you
  • The most beautiful place for you

Descriptive Essay Topics for Grade 7

  • A day in the life of an imaginary creature
  • Exploring volcanic eruptions
  • Secret time-traveling machine adventures
  • Enchanted forest walk
  • Whimsical talking animal world
  • Joyful chaos at a school carnival
  • My time as a detective
  • Journey to the center of the Earth
  • Feast with extraterrestrial friends
  • Colorful universe in my toy box

Descriptive Essay Topics for Grade 8

  • The street from home to school
  • The pet you love the most
  • The best habit of your favorite person
  • Your dream house
  • Your favorite childhood memory
  • Your favorite hideout while playing hide and seek
  • A list of your favorite restaurants
  • What makes me laugh
  • What is the world’s biggest secret?
  • My first school teacher

Descriptive Essay Topics for Grade 9

  • The relationship between productivity and musical tones
  • Life is beautiful if we stop complaining
  • A day spent in school after vacations
  • How does the solar system work?
  • Things to learn from life
  • Effects of domestic violence on children
  • My favorite sport
  • My love for country people
  • My first visit to a mosque
  • Changing a car tire

Descriptive Essay Topics for Class 10

  • Exploring the cultural mosaic of a vibrant city market
  • A day in the life of an urban street artist
  • Intricacies of technological evolution
  • Descriptive exploration of historical monuments in your city.
  • Sensory symphony of a night market
  • Unveiling the architecture of sustainable green buildings
  • Dynamic energy of a music festival
  • Day in the shoes of a social activist
  • Artistry of cinematic masterpieces
  • Describing the serenity of a coastal landscape

Descriptive Essay Topics For Grade 12

  • Philosophy and AI Intersection
  • Decoding quantum entanglement
  • Postmodern literature analysis
  • Bioethical dilemmas in medical tech evolution.
  • Socioeconomic impacts of global climate change.
  • Intricacies of International Diplomacy
  • Identity intersection in societal constructs.
  • Cybersecurity impact on global economies
  • Ethical quandaries in genetic engineering.
  • Architectural innovations in urban sustainability.

Common Descriptive Essay Topics

Here is a compilation of descriptive essay topics that have been categorized into different groups.

Descriptive Essay Topics about an Event

  • Describe the electric atmosphere of a music festival.
  • Describe a thrilling sporting event: the roar of the crowd.
  • Describe behind the scenes at a carnival: colors and chaos.
  • Describe the unveiling magic of a fireworks display.
  • Describe the enchanting glow of a night market.
  • Describe a vibrant parade: colors, costumes, and celebrations.
  • Describe exploring the buzz of a busy street fair.
  • Describe the serenity of a sunrise yoga event.
  • Describe a cultural festival: tastes, sounds, and traditions.
  • Describe the dynamic energy of a political rally.

Descriptive Essay Topics about Objects

  • Describe the elegance of a vintage pocket watch.
  • Describe the intricate details of an antique writing desk.
  • Describe the simplicity and charm of a well-worn teddy bear.
  • Describe the mesmerizing glow of a stained glass lamp.
  • Describe the rugged beauty of a weathered leather journal.
  • Describe the delicate craftsmanship of a porcelain teapot.
  • Describe the sleek design of a modern smartphone.
  • Describe the timeless allure of a classic wristwatch.
  • Describe the vibrant colors of a handwoven tapestry.
  • Describe the rustic charm of a vintage typewriter.

Descriptive Essay Topics on Places

  • Describe the tranquility of a hidden beach cove.
  • Describe the bustling energy of a busy city street.
  • Describe the serenity found in a mountain retreat.
  • Describe the historic charm of an old town square.
  • Describe the vibrant atmosphere of a local farmers' market.
  • Describe the awe-inspiring beauty of a dense forest.
  • Describe the eclectic charm of a neighborhood coffee shop.
  • Describe the grandeur of an ancient cathedral.
  • Describe the coziness of a quaint mountain cabin.
  • Describe the futuristic appeal of a modern art gallery.

Easy Descriptive Essay Topics

If you are seeking easy topics, we have a range of simple descriptive essay options that are perfect if you're new to this genre.

Narrative Descriptive Essay Topics

  • My favorite restaurant to check out
  • An Adventure in the Andes
  • A perfect companion for me
  • Describe your favorite celebrity.
  • The birth of a child
  • Describe something that made you laugh to death.
  • An encounter with an online criminal
  • What’s your favorite scene from a book?
  • Describe all heroics attributed to King Arthur
  • The wonders of Australia and New Zealand

Funny Descriptive Essay Topics

  • Describe the antics of your mischievous pet.
  • Describe a hilarious encounter at a comedy club.
  • Describe the chaotic scene of a family game night.
  • Describe the amusing sights at a quirky local fair.
  • Describe the funny mishaps during a camping trip.
  • Describe the comical chaos of a surprise birthday party.
  • Describe the eccentric characters at a neighborhood potluck.
  • Describe the laughter-filled moments at a comedy movie night.
  • Describe the humorous chaos of a kitchen cooking adventure.
  • Describe the amusing incidents at a lively karaoke party.

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How to Select a Descriptive Writing Topic? 

Crafting a compelling descriptive essay requires a suitable topic. It's crucial to consider the following points:

Factors for Selecting a Descriptive Essay Prompt

  • Interest Alignment: Choose a topic aligning with personal experiences or passions.
  • Vivid Imagery Potential: Opt for a subject allowing vibrant descriptions and sensory details to create a vivid description.
  • Audience Engagement: Consider topics relatable or intriguing to your intended readers.
  • Abundance of Details: Pick a subject providing ample material for rich descriptions.
  • Emotional Connection: Select prompts evoking strong emotions or personal connections.

Utilizing Descriptive Essay Samples

  • Understanding Structure: Review examples to grasp the descriptive essay outline and its components.
  • Techniques and Language: Analyze how vivid descriptions are crafted and sensory details are used.
  • Inspiration Source: Use examples to spark ideas and creativity for your chosen prompt. You can read and get inspiration from expertly crafted samples in our descriptive essay examples blog!

The Bottom Line!

We hope that these descriptive essay topics have inspired you and given you some ideas for your own essay. Writing a descriptive essay requires vivid descriptions and sensory details, and it's a chance to paint a picture with words. Remember choosing the right topic is essential for writing a good descriptive essay. And if you're struggling to choose one or feeling uncertain about your writing skills, seek professional help. 

Unlock the potential of your writing with our professional essay writing help , specializing in crafting vivid and engaging descriptive essays.

Our descriptive essay writing service is designed to bring your ideas to life, painting a picture with words that capture the reader's imagination. Whether you're struggling with structure, style, or just getting started, we're here to guide you every step of the way. And for those seeking an innovative edge, explore our AI essay generator . This tool is your key to effortless, high-quality writing. 

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12 Creative Descriptive Essay Prompts

by Suzanne Davis | Dec 12, 2019 | Writing Essays and Papers , Writing Prompts | 13 comments

“Description is what makes the reader a sensory participant in the story.”  –Stephen King

Stephen King wrote about description in stories. But the same advice is correct for descriptive essays.  Get your readers engaged by making them sense and connect with everything you’ve written in your essay.  How can you do that?  Begin with descriptive essay prompts that inspire you to write more.

Then add important details and characteristics or features about the person, place, object, or experience in your essay.  The more detail and elements you add to a descriptive essay, the better it will be.

So, check out these descriptive writing topics and find the one that will work best for you.

How to Select a Descriptive Essay Prompt

Before you select a descriptive essay topic, see if you can show and not tell your readers about the characteristics, actions, and emotions in that essay.

Maybe you’ve heard writers say, “ Show Don’t Tell .”   This motto is an approach some writers use to make their writing more descriptive.  The word “show” means to portray or illustrate feelings and actions.  And “tell” is when a writer says what the emotions and actions are.

For example, “ The black poodle snarled and growled.” (showing) vs. “The black poodle was angry and fierce.” (telling)

In the example above, the first sentence shows that the black poodle was angry because it snarled and growled.  The second sentence says or tells us that the dog was angry and fierce.

Use the “ Show Don’t Tell”  approach in your descriptive essay by asking these questions about the 5 senses:

  • What did you see?
  • What did you hear?
  • What did you touch?
  • What did you smell?
  • What did you taste?

You probably won’t have answers to all these questions.   (Or at least if you write about a mountain, I hope you can’t describe how tastes.) But write “Show Don’t Tell ” content wherever you can in your essay.

The 12 descriptive essay prompts here, give you the freedom to develop your content in different ways, and with a lot of sensory details. They are divided into 4 categories: person, place, object, and experience.  Each type has 3 descriptive essay writing ideas.   For each writing prompt, brainstorm how you can develop that essay.

Descriptive WritingTopics About a Person

# 1 describe the strangest person you ever met.

Strange people are easy to remember, and if you remember a different, odd, or unique person, you’ll have a lot of information you can write on.  Before you choose this topic, brainstorm a few ideas about this person.

Questions to develop this essay topic : What seemed strange about this person?  What characteristics did he/she possess? How did you feel about this person?

# 2 Describe a person you envied .

Envy or jealousy is a powerful emotion.  When you focus on a person you were jealous of, there are reasons and characteristics for why you felt that way.

Questions to develop this essay topic: What traits or characteristics did this person have?  How did that person look? How did this person act?  What made you envy him/her?

# 3 Describe an inspiring friend or family member.

We remember people who inspire us.  And people love to read about inspiring individuals.  If you describe an inspiring person, think about the impact that a person made on you.

Questions to develop this essay topic:   What did this person do that was inspiring?   How did that person act toward others?

Descriptive Writing Topics About a Place

# 4 describe a spooky or haunted place ..

If you describe a scary place, include a lot of sensory details.  Spooky and haunted places are memorable.

Questions to develop this essay topic:   What did this place look like?  Where was it located?  What did you see, hear, smell, or feel at this place?  Did you find someone or something that scared you?  Why is this place, spooky?

# 5 Describe a place you loved as a child.

People love to know things about another person’s childhood. A great way to show who you are is to describe a place that was important to you.  If you select this writing topic, make sure you remember this place well.

Questions to develop this essay topic : How did this place look? What did you do at this place?  Was anyone else at this there?  How did you feel about the area?

# 6 Describe a beautiful location in nature.

You could describe a mountain, body of water, campground, desert, etc.  Or any other place that is outdoors and part of nature.

Questions to develop this essay topic:   What did this place look like?  How did you feel when you were there? Did you hear, smell, taste, or touch anything at the location? Was there anyone else with you?  What did you do at this place?

Descriptive WritingTopics About an Object

12 Terrific Descriptive Essay Prompts

# 7 Describe a lucky object.

It can be any lucky object, a good luck charm, an heirloom object, etc.  Select something you believe brings you good luck.

Q uestions to develop this essay topic:   What are the characteristics of this object? How is it used?  What makes this a lucky object?

# 8 Describe a piece of art.

It can be a photograph, painting, sculpture, etc.  There are a lot of sensory details you can include in a descriptive essay about a piece of art.

Questions to develop this essay topic:  What does this work of art look?  Can you touch it?  If so, how does it feel?   What are the emotions you have when you see this sculpture, painting, photograph, etc.?

# 9 Describe an object used in your favorite sport or hobby.

If you have a favorite sport or hobby, describe an object that is relevant to that sport.  For example, if you play tennis, describe a tennis racket.  Or, if you collect coins, describe a unique coin from your collection.

Questions to develop this essay topic:   What are the characteristics or features of this object?  How is it used?  What is significant about this object?  What are some sensory details you can add?

Descriptive Essay Topics About an Experience

# 10 describe the first time you drove a car or rode a bicycle..

First-time experiences are emotional and significant to people.  If you haven’t driven a car or ridden a bicycle, write about another first-time experience.

Questions to develop this essay topic:   What did you see, hear, touch, smell, or taste during this experience?  What did you do?  Were others involved?  If so, what did they do? How did you feel during this experience?  How do you feel about it now?

# 11 Describe a hike or special walk you took .

Do you recall a hike you took or a walk on a trail, path, or street? If so, describe that memory.

Questions to develop this essay topic:   What was the place you were at like? What did you hear, see, smell, taste, or touch during this experience?  What did you do?  What did anyone else do?

# 12   Describe a happy memory.

Write about a happy experience you can remember clearly.    This topic involves remembering what occurred and how you felt during that experience.

Questions to develop this essay topic:   What made this experience happy? What happened?  Who else was there?  Can you describe them?

Writing a Descriptive Essay

The key to writing a descriptive essay is to show or portray to a reader the significant elements of a person, place, object, or experience.  So, select an essay topic that you connect with, and develop it with sensory details.  If you do this, you’ll achieve what Stephen King does in his writing and “make the reader a sensory participant.”  When you do that, your readers will want to keep reading until the end.

Make them wish your essay continued so that they could read even more!

So which descriptive essay prompt inspires you?  And if you want more creative writing prompts, check out my blog post, “13 Thought-Provoking Personal Narrative Prompts” https://www.academicwritingsuccess.com/13-thought-provoking-personal-narrative-prompts/.

Suzanne,I enjoy reading your articles. Loved your sense of humour ‘(Or at least if you write about a mountain, I hope you can’t describe how tastes.)’. I tried to share this article in my Pinterest account, but somehow something went wrong and it did not allow me to do it.

I’m glad you enjoyed the article. I do try to be funny whenever I can. I’m having a problem right now with my article pinning. I’m working on it.

Loved the “show, not tell” explanation. It really made sense. I’m a visual learner, so I really liked the visual for the 12 descriptive essay prompts in both written form and as a image. You gave me a lot of good ideas for starting a descriptive essay!

Terri, I’m glad you liked my infographic for the post. I love designing visual images for articles. Let me know if you use one of the descriptive essay prompts. I’d love to know how it worked for you.

Excellent. I like the sensory detail questions. It brings the writing to a new level.

Raven, thank you. Sensory details are great for developing writing. They really help writers of all ages.

Nice article, Suzanne. I love using prompts with my students. I might be nervous of the prompt “Describe the strangest person you ever met.” For many of my students I would have the starring role in that one! 🙂 Using the basic five senses to help students expand upon their writing is also very good. So many students write one sentence and then get stuck. Prompting questions can really help them broaden their thoughts.

Ron, thank you. I might be nervous about the “strangest person you ever met” prompt too. But, I’m hoping there are other strange people students could write about too!

Love these! In this generation of “just getting the point across”, it is so difficult to get some students to be descriptive in their writing.It would be hard for any student to not be descriptive using these prompts. When working on writing with students, I always use the five senses to show them how their writing will be more interesting to any reader when it is descriptive. Thanks for sharing!

Thank you,Randy. Descriptive writing is a challenge, but finding a good descriptive writing prompt and using the 5 senses makes a huge difference.

Also, that is a great quote by Stephen King!

Hi Suzanne! Excellent post! I love the creative prompts. They’re helpful, whether one is writing fiction or non-fiction.

You have a great site. Will stop by again. I know I’ll learn lots here.

P.S. Thanks for stopping by my site. I appreciate your feedback.

Hi Nadine, Thanks so much. I am glad you stopped by and checked out my post on descriptive writing prompts. I love prompts because they can make you think about writing in different ways. And sometimes I just need help getting started. I enjoyed your post on writing spaces. I’ll be visiting your site again.

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Are you going to write a descriptive essay and are looking for appropriate ideas? Look no further! Here are 220+ top-notch descriptive essay topics recommended by essay writers . For sure, you will find one that interests you and sparks your creativity. We have topics about various places: from rural farmlands to bustling cities. We have topics about people: from friends and family to strangers. We have descriptive writing topics about both concrete objects and abstract ideas. Whatever your writing project is, we have the perfect descriptive essay ideas to help you create a masterpiece. So, what are you waiting for? Start exploring our long list of descriptive topic ideas and find your inspiration!

What Are Descriptive Essay Topics?

Descriptive essay topics focus on describing an object, person, place, experience, emotion, or situation. They can also be used to give a recount of something that happened or that someone has seen or heard. When writing this type of essay, you should aim to provide a vivid and detailed description of the subject so that the reader can fully understand, imagine, or visualize it. When it comes to writing a descriptive essay , there are many descriptive essay topics to select from. Depending on topics for descriptive writing you choose, you may be required to rely on your memory, your observation skills, or your historical knowledge to complete the essay. You can also focus on an object or event that has significantly impacted your life. Other topics for a descriptive essay can include describing a favorite hobby or activity, a memorable trip, or a special moment.

Things we can describe in a descriptive essay

Characteristics of Good Descriptive Essay Topics

Good topics for a descriptive essay are interesting to write about. The primary objective of descriptive essays is to relate the unique qualities of objects, persons, or events vividly and comprehensively to readers. Good descriptive essay topics can evoke strong emotions and feelings in people. Here are some characteristics of good descriptive essay prompts:

  • Creative Consider creativity and originality when selecting your essay topic.
  • Clear The topic should be clear and concise.
  • Interesting Select a topic that you will not only enjoy writing about, but that will also be compelling to your readers.
  • Researchable The topic should be easy to research.

How to Choose a Descriptive Essay Topic?

Choosing a good descriptive essay topic can be difficult. The writing style used for descriptive essays is very expressive. Thus, it may be rather challenging to complete your paper if you do not select topics for descriptive essays that suit your preference, knowledge, or experience. Here are a few steps to help you select an interesting title that will make your essay stand out. Follow the tips in provided order.

  • Think of a title that interests you. Consider a subject that you are passionate about. You should never select a topic blindly.
  • Brainstorm ideas. When thinking about your topic, don’t hesitate to write down words or phrases that come to mind.
  • Research potential topics. You can look for the right content online or visit a library and skim specialized books.
  • Narrow down your topic for descriptive essays. As a result, choose the best idea that you feel will make an interesting and engaging essay.

Top List of Descriptive Essay Topics

This section provides you with some of the top descriptive writing topics. Writers enjoy working on depictive papers because they give them unrestricted freedom of selecting their means of expression. Besides, these top topics can come from totally different categories. Below is a descriptive essay topics list to help you with your brainstorming:

  • The Pearl Harbor attack.
  • My scariest dream.
  • The political journey of Barack Obama.
  • Remembering my graduation ceremony.
  • My first childhood memory.
  • The most difficult decision you have ever made.
  • Life with a pet monkey.
  • Your childhood hero.
  • A perfect journey.
  • The best book I have read recently.
  • My all-time favorite movie.
  • Great migration of wildebeests across the Mara River .
  • My Coachella music festival experience.
  • Effect of cyberbullying on today’s society.
  • The Mona Lisa: components of the legendary piece of art.

Best Descriptive Essay Topics

The art of describing an event, a place, or a character through vivid writing allows you to take readers to another world. Choosing the right topic is the key to success and it makes a lot of difference in preparing an essay or a speech. Discover the best topics for a descriptive essay listed below to help unleash your creative writing skills.

  • The most beautiful place you have ever visited.
  • The appalling state of Guantanamo Bay.
  • Ancient pyramids and settlements in the Bolivian Amazon.
  • An embarrassing moment in your life.
  • Walking the Great Wall of China: the ultimate experience.
  • My strange “addiction” to jogging.
  • Canadian night festivals.
  • Voyages of Christopher Columbus.
  • The best gift ever received from my parents.
  • Weekend living at the cabin.
  • The ultimate daring thing you will always remember.
  • How I discovered my personal hobby.
  • My most challenging moment in school.
  • Women’s suffrage movement.
  • My biggest superstition and its impact on my lifestyle.

The best topic for a descriptive essay can often come from your experience. Thus, it should be easy to write about, since you already have necessary information and do not need to do any serious research. Using the above list, if you fail to find a topic that connects with previous incidents in your life, just choose a similar subject matter but such that is somehow related your to your own experience or is easy to explore.

Interesting Descriptive Essay Topics

There are descriptive ideas that are relatively more interesting compared to others. Essays about such ideas can help readers better understand an interesting experience or event, imagine and see a vivid picture, or observe and analyze a person from a more intriguing perspective. Here are 15 interesting ideas for a descriptive essay to consider:

  • The feeling of being in love.
  • A holiday on a secluded island.
  • Traits of people you really admire.
  • A woman’s life in the Middle East.
  • Your biggest life-changing moment.
  • My first sleepover.
  • Best FIFA World Cup final ever.
  • Recounting the joyous moment of your day.
  • My biggest fear or terror.
  • Earth’s appearance from out of space.
  • My imaginary best friend from childhood.
  • The TV series you enjoyed the most.
  • Apollo 11: the 1969 NASA moon landing.
  • Surviving the cold Arctic conditions.
  • My backpack adventure in Australian rainforest.

Good Topics for Descriptive Essays

If you are wondering what are some good topics for a descriptive essay, you’ll probably find a suitable answer in this segment. The section outlines topic examples you can use for your essay. A good descriptive essay topic should capture your reader’s attention. You can write about multiple ideas, including a person you admire, a special place or object, a favorite childhood memory, or a beautiful landscape. Good descriptive essay titles should be creative, engaging, and thought-provoking. Below are some examples:

  • My first time on a cruise ship.
  • This year’s Thanksgiving dinner with my family.
  • Your first experience with a foreign culture.
  • Your most treasured childhood toy.
  • How New York looks from Empire State’s 86th floor observatory.
  • My sweet 16 birthday party.
  • Picturing a clear night sky in the countryside.
  • The first time seeing the northern lights in Iceland.
  • My best friend’s wedding reception.
  • One day in the army.
  • A walk through the Central Park.
  • Challenges of living with food allergy.
  • The prom night experience.
  • Main features of Twitter.
  • Most beautiful beaches around the world.

Easy Descriptive Essay Topics

Easy ideas for descriptive essays require you to use just your five senses, your imagination, or memory to create a vivid image of the subject in the reader's mind. It also should take you a relatively shorter period to work on such uncomplicated descriptive ideas. You can choose descriptive paper topics from some of the examples provided below:

  • Special days spent with your grandparents.
  • Best places to explore in my hometown.
  • A perfect summer day.
  • The house of my dream.
  • The most beautiful sunset you’ve ever seen.
  • Your ideal picnic spots.
  • Your favorite moment in “ Avengers: Endgame ”.
  • Describing my family members.
  • Walking tour through Times Square in New York City.
  • How does freshly-baked bread smell?
  • My sense of humor.
  • Perfect gifts for your partner.
  • My first public speech: a recount of how I felt inside.
  • World’s greatest conspiracy theory.
  • My favorite school teacher.

Funny Descriptive Essay Topics

Allowing the imagination to run wild can lead to interesting ideas, particularly when looking for funny descriptive essay topics. Here we have compiled fifteen funny descriptive essay topic ideas for you to write about. The topics will help you produce a unique and humorous essay. From describing some weird costume to documenting habits of a quirky pet, these topics for descriptive writing are sure to inspire your creativity and provide you with a fun writing experience.

  • An outlandish Halloween outfit to fit my body.
  • People’s attempts to break odd world records.
  • Charlie Chaplin: the funniest silent play character.
  • How I fell for an April Fool’s Day prank.
  • Most hilarious Super Bowl commercials ever.
  • Funny moments during Donald Trump’s presidency.
  • Funny experience in an eating competition.
  • Diving into the mysterious world of wild street cats.
  • The “No Sweets for Adults” law in Chesapeake City, Virginia.
  • Funny life of Peter Griffin in the “Family Guy” TV show.
  • Amusing ghost stories as presented in Hollywood movies.
  • Funniest punishment ever experienced for losing a bet.
  • An encounter with a celebrity lookalike.
  • My queer self-made alternatives to online entertainments.
  • Explaining the behavior of an eccentric pet.

If you are searching for other paper ideas such as division and classification essay topics or informative essay topics , you will find them on our platform.

Descriptive Essay Ideas for Students

Students often struggle with finding the right ideas for their descriptive essays. While some topics may seem easier than others, there are plenty of creative and unique directions that can be explored. This section compiles descriptive writing ideas for various learning levels. From descriptive research topics in education to discussing the effects of climate change on nature, these ideas enable students to grow their knowledge and develop their researching skills.

Descriptive Writing Topics for Middle School

Descriptive writing topics for middle school can range from describing a favorite vacation spot to giving a detailed characterization of a person or place. Working on descriptive essays can help students to hone their writing skills, enabling them to better observe and detail their surroundings. Below are fifteen descriptive paper ideas for middle school students to explore:

  • My dream smartphone.
  • My favorite activities in the gymnasium.
  • Fishing and camping with my father.
  • Most important and cherished tradition in my family.
  • Recounting the visit to Jurassic Park.
  • Your most enjoyable activities outside school.
  • An unforgettable moment of wisdom with my teacher.
  • My best outfit.
  • My first time in a live sports event.
  • Game night experiences with my family.
  • A rollercoaster ride with friends.
  • Most beautiful success story in my life.
  • A summer vacation memory.
  • Why my best friend is my security blanket.
  • My lucky charm.

Descriptive Essay Topics for High School

Ideas for descriptive writing at high school level are relatively more demanding in terms of the effort needed to develop them comprehensively. You may be required to provide more descriptive details compared to the lower learning levels or even conduct additional research. In certain instances, suitable topics may only be derived from the high school curriculum. Here are some of the examples of descriptive essay topics for high school students:

  • Importance of summer school.
  • How I trained my dog.
  • How the solar system works.
  • Kobe Bryant: the mamba mentality.
  • A unique family heirloom.
  • Effect of domestic violence on students’ performance.
  • Qualities of a good roommate.
  • Abraham Lincoln: the greatest American president.
  • My journey as an artist: the development of skills.
  • America’s Independence Day: the Fourth of July celebration party.
  • Thomas Edison’s light bulb invention.
  • Greatest moment of personal growth.
  • The Pleiades star cluster.
  • Dream career: my aspiration to be an engineer.
  • Assassination of J.F. Kennedy .

Descriptive Essay Topics for College Students

Descriptive essay topics for university students are even more in-depth compared to the two previous academic levels. Learners tend to focus on topics within their area of specialization. College students are expected to think big and be more creative. Students in high learning institution can be additionally asked to provide educated opinion on the subject matter. Learn some of the descriptive essay topics for college students to get your creative juices flowing:

  • My online virtual learning experience in college.
  • Yuri Gagarin’s journey to space.
  • The role of your mentor in shaping your life.
  • How did you get your first tattoo?
  • Causes of college dropout: my personal experience.
  • The Holocaust: its history and consequences.
  • Greta Thunberg’s inspirational story.
  • Experiencing the pilgrimage to Mecca.
  • Preparing for a date: things to do.
  • Inside an anthill: a view from a tiny camera inside the colony.
  • How do you prepare for exams.
  • Muhammad Ali: his life and achievements.
  • Components of Martin Luther’s greatest speech.
  • Most beautiful locations in Europe.
  • Fastest travel route from Alaska to Ushuaia.

Topics for Descriptive Writing by Categories

A descriptive writing topic can come from many different categories. To help you select an essay idea based on your preference, we have compiled multiple topics and arranged them into various groups. We have focused on six primary categories in this section: objects, family and people, events, traveling, experience, and hobbies. You are free to either pick descriptive writing ideas from the lists provided, or use them as foundation for developing your own ones.

Descriptive Essay Topics About an Object

Do you want to write impressive descriptive topics about an object? In this section, you can explore the list of proper descriptive essay ideas revolved around specific entities. When analyzing objects, your sharp observation skills and basic knowledge about these items are important. Here are examples of topic ideas for descriptive essays:

  • My most valued object.
  • Toys I own as an adult.
  • The rarest metal on Earth.
  • World’s most powerful supercomputer.
  • Components of my living room.
  • Things you will find in my wallet.
  • World’s oldest tree: its physical appearance and history.
  • Items in my bank safety deposit box.
  • A detailed description of the most comfortable bed in USA.
  • Burj Khalifa : world’s tallest building.
  • Historical significance of Eiffel Tower.
  • Features of iPhone 13.
  • Inside a Tesla Cybertruck.
  • The largest flower in the world.
  • Japanese katana: appearance, types, materials.

Family and People Descriptive Essay Topics

You can base your depictive essay on matters pertaining to family and people. Relationships with friends and relatives constitute an integral part of every person’s life, so you will definitely have enough matter and stories to address. In this section, we have outlined sample descriptive essays topics that draw their talking points from the subject of family bonds and friendship. You can deliver a narrative involving memories of time spend together, or expressively discuss some outstanding features of your loved ones. Below are some of the descriptive paragraph topics for papers to get you started:

  • My favorite family member.
  • The best part of my Christmas holiday with my family.
  • Effect of divorce on childhood development.
  • Pillars of a strong family.
  • Financial benefit of a marriage institution.
  • Challenges of being a last-born in a family.
  • Things I miss the most about my childhood friend.
  • The relationship between my step-family and me.
  • The day I met my best friend.
  • Our secret family recipe.
  • The best Valentine’s Day experience with my partner.
  • Growing up in a multi-cultural family.
  • Biblical definition of marriage.
  • Components of our family portrait.
  • Impact of extended family on my personal growth.

Look through our definition essay topics to find more ideas on family. 

Descriptive Essay Topics About Events

Over the course of our lives, we witness multiple events ranging from personal parties to ceremonies of national magnitude. Generally, rather than giving personal opinions or using rhetoric approach, you should prioritize providing objective information and key facts when working on topics for descriptive essay writing about events. Below is a list of essay topics for descriptive papers to help you in brainstorming.

  • Saint Patrick’s Day celebration in America.
  • Assassination of Abraham Lincoln.
  • Chronological events leading to start of World War I.
  • End of Cold War.
  • September 11 terrorist attacks.
  • My first job interview: how I performed.
  • The birth of my first born and how it affected me.
  • Relevance of the Ramadan celebration in the Islam religion.
  • Effect of “Tomorrowland Music Festival” on today’s morality.
  • 2026 FIFA World Cup: the next tournament in Canada, Mexico, and USA.
  • The incident between Will Smith and Chris Rock at the 2022 Grammy Award.
  • How I proposed to my partner.
  • The best sports event I ever attended.
  • The Winner of the 2022 Formula 1 Series.
  • How I survived an extreme weather condition: a close call.

Once you have selected your preferred essay topics for descriptive papers, you should strive to expound particulars related to the occurrence in a chronological manner. This ensures that the reader is able to seamlessly follow the directions of your thoughts.

Traveling Descriptive Essay Topics

Writing a descriptive paragraph idea about traveling can be a great way to capture the moments and memories of your journey. These topics for descriptive writing can help you create a vivid and interesting essay about your travels.

  • Tourist destinations that left me with a lasting impression.
  • Exploring unfamiliar culture of Amazon tribes.
  • The most stunning natural landscape you’ve seen.
  • Best cheap meal you have ever had while traveling.
  • Most memorable people you met on your trip.
  • The most thrilling journey to the Maldives.
  • Unique souvenirs you brought back from Africa.
  • Exploring local customs and traditions of Native American communities.
  • The Swiss Alps train: The Glacier Express.
  • Magical views of Niagara waterfalls in Canada.
  • A journey to the Himalayas : the city of immortal beings.
  • Challenges you faced while traveling through a non-English speaking country.
  • Exploring the local cuisine of Istanbul.
  • The most interesting thing you learned on your recent trip
  • How I met my travel companion.

Descriptive Essay Topics About an Experience

Writing topics for a descriptive essay about an experience can be a great way to explore and share recollections of your life. Although not everyone is ready or comfortable to share their past, there are people who enjoy talking about the affairs that touched them to their friends, families, and even strangers. Find 15 topics for descriptive papers about an experience to get you started listed below:

  • An experience that changed your outlook on life.
  • A summer night that was particularly memorable.
  • Witnessing Argentina’s 2022 World Cup victory.
  • An experience that made you feel scared and develop a phobia for height.
  • Places that fill you with joy and nostalgia.
  • A moment of relief.
  • My experience learning abroad.
  • The biggest public humiliation that I will never forget.
  • A dream that stayed with you.
  • A time when you felt overwhelmed.
  • A special experience with a family member.
  • Self-realization in my time of adversity.
  • The story of my first heartbreak.
  • How I coped with being hospitalized for weeks.
  • Recounting my visit to a home for the elderly.

Ideas for a Descriptive Essay About Hobbies

Writing descriptive essay topics about hobbies can be a great way to express yourself and explore your passions. Whether it's a hobby you've been doing for years or something new that you've recently taken up, there are countless topics to pick from when it comes to creating a descriptive essay. Below are ideas for descriptive essays to get you started:

  • My inspiration for taking up a new hobby.
  • Athletics as hobbies: their conversion to professions.
  • How my parents helped me pick my hobby.
  • Impact of hobbies on my relationship with family and friends.
  • Effect of sedentary hobby on your health.
  • Recounting the event that made me fall out of love with my traveling hobby.
  • How physical hobbies improved my physiological health.
  • My favorite childhood hobby.
  • Financial implication of having a hobby.
  • My best friend’s unusual hobby.
  • Extreme and dangerous hobbies taken up by my friends.
  • How sharing hobbies with my neighbor developed our friendship.
  • Pressures resulting from doing ballet dancing as a hobby.
  • My hobby’s contribution to my career development.
  • Biggest lessons learned from my childhood hobbies.

If you need more essay ideas, don’t forget that we have an extensive blog that offers different titles, including narrative essay topics and ideas for expository essays .

Bottom Line on Descriptive Essay Topics

Descriptive writing essay topics can range from narrating a personal experience to describing a place, person, or thing. It is important to include enough details in your essay so the reader can form a vivid picture. When choosing topics to write a descriptive essay on, you should consider the age and other specifics of the target audience and know your primary intentions in delivering information. It is also vital to be creative and use unique language to make the essay stand out. With the right topic and approach, a descriptive essay can be an engaging and enjoyable writing experience. Do not forget to adhere to grammar rules and employ appropriate lexis when working on topics for descriptive essays!

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How To Write A Descriptive Essay?

26 April, 2020

11 minutes read

Author:  Tomas White

Descriptive essay is one of the hardest forms of writing. To master descriptive writing, you must be creative and craft a scene that all readers can picture with words alone. This freedom and creativity can make it one of the most rewarding and fun essays to write. It is the backbone of all artful writing like poetry, novels, and even television scripts. We prepared this guide for You to learn all you need to know about descriptive writing. Let's start!

Descriptive Essay

What is a Descriptive Essay?

The goal of a descriptive essay is simple, choose a subject and describe it. The subject could be anything:

The subject of the essay

A descriptive essay is all about describing the subject in great detail. Being a type of expository writing , it gives you great freedom to paint a picture with your words, shares a once in a lifetime event with the reader or makes them feel something.  It is better to choose a descriptive essay topic that has lots of qualities to discuss for example a person might have a more interesting feature to describe than a paper towel. Choose a subject you connect with emotionally or have a personal history with. The best descriptions come from retelling an experience.

The Difference Between Descriptive and Narrative Essays

The main difference between descriptive and narrative essays lies in the structure and purpose of the essay. A descriptive essay is used to describe a subject to present a clear picture of it. As such, it only requires you to describe the item in a logic fashion. A narrative essay’s purpose is to tell a story. As such, it requires a plot and logical progression to an outcome. A person’s face can be the subject of a descriptive essay. But it would be hard to write a narrative piece that follows the person’s face as the central plot of a story.

Showing VS Telling

Show details while describing

A descriptive essay values details over facts. This is also known as showing vs. telling. To  show  something is to describe using the five senses, how it looks, how it smells, how it tastes, how it feels and how it sounds. Imagine the reader as an alien, who has never experienced the subject for themselves. How would you describe it then?

To give you an understanding of how to differentiate between showing and telling I’ll write an example of a descriptive paper that describes my favorite place.

Description sample

The above example tells you, as it doesn’t evoke any of your senses. It is a senseless description . It’s vague and hard to imagine.

Good example of a Descriptive Essay

This description is more detail and easier to imagine because of the following changes:

  • The choice of words like ‘haven’ instead of ‘like’ add a showing element as it is showing in what way I like the library.
  • Putting describers before items like ‘brightly colored’ books makes it easier to see.
  • And choosing words with more like ‘towering’ instead of ‘tall’ makes the description less full.
  • The description of the books shows what they do, not what they are. These are important points to consider when writing a descriptive essay.

A good exercise for descriptive writing and is to read descriptive essay examples and pick out the words that do the four points outlined above. Analyzing other’s descriptive writing will make your own descriptive work stronger. Can you pick out another place in the descriptive essay example above where those four changes occur and what it lends to the description?

Still having problems with your descriptive paper? All you need is to request help from our top-notch essay writing service and our essay writer make it for you !

How to Choose a Descriptive Essay Topic?

When deciding what to highlight about your topic, take a step back and look at what draws you to it. A campfire has bright, flickering colors, a satisfying crackling sound, and a sort of flow as it moves from the bottom to the tip of the flame. Place yourself in proximity to the subject and describe the parts that stimulate your senses the most.

Title Examples of Descriptive Essays

Here are some examples of descriptive essay topics that are fun to write:

Topics for a Descriptive Essay

Pick something you can see right now and think about how you’d describe that.

Related Posts: Argumentative essay topics | Compare&Contrast essay topics

How to Set Up a Proper Description?

Slow down and think about what you want to invoke. Don’t rush into a description or you’ll likely end up with something weaker than you could have. Take your topic aside and write some sentences describing how it charms each sense – the five senses being:

Keep a thesaurus on hand to switch some of the more basic words out. If you can read your paragraph back and vividly imagine the item you’ve described, you’ve done it.

How to write a Descriptive Essay Outline

The plan of writing

Starting your descriptive essay without a plan can lead to a messy and sprawling description.  Learning to outline your ideas is just as important as knowing how to write them.

Related Posts: How to write an Essay outline  | How to write an Essay introduction  

 Creating an Introduction for a Descriptive Writing

Once you have chosen the subject to write you need to plan the introduction for your descriptive paper. An introduction needs to include a thesis statement and three features of the thing you are describing.   The introduction should start with a thesis statement that states how you feel about your topic. This should then be supported with three qualities defining those feelings.

Examples of a thesis statement

These thesis statements aren’t meant to be complex. All they’re meant to do is to set up your reader for your descriptions. It is important to include three reasons that you can expand on describe in great detail as they will form the paragraphs of your descriptive paper.

Planning and Writing the Body of a Descriptive Essay

Looking at your thesis statement, take those three reasons and break them down into their own paragraphs. Describe hanging out with your friends at the beach, talk about the food you’d eat, the activities you’d participate in. Detail what huskies do when they’re energetic, what shows that they get along with other dogs?

It helps to write about each way you can describe an item on a separate sheet of paper. Use that sheet as your descriptive essay outline. Take each item and write what sense you can use to describe the item in each paragraph.

For example, if you want to talk about eating a popsicle on the beach you could include how cold against your tongue for touch, that it smelt and tasted like raspberries, it was a bright red, and shaped like a rocket for sight, and the sound you made it as you bit on it, or the sound you made as it rocketed into your mouth. Expand this into a paragraph keeping the most vivid description.

Force your reader to imagine objects

Force your reader to imagine these objects in their head. Help them visualize it, pour your vision into the paper and focus on both the small and the big details. Just don’t go overboard. It’s important to have a few great descriptors rather than a ton of average ones.

When describing an object, go about it in a practical sense. Don’t just throw details on the page, talk about them in order. Describe a mountain from its peak to it’s middle all the way down to its base. You wouldn’t go from the middle to the base to the peak, would you? This way, you’re keeping your reader engaged with the topic.

Concluding a Descriptive Essay

Concluding descriptive writing is easy. All you have to show why the subject you described is important to you. All you have to do is show the reader what you implied. Show why it has meaning, and why they should care.

Descriptive Essay Example

Drafting your essay.

Make sure that your essay responds to these questions

Where the organization comes to fruition. When writing your essay, keep the reader in your head at all times. Constantly as yourself: “Is this vivid enough?” Don’t focus much on grammar, get the content onto the paper.

Questions to Ask Yourself

Once you’ve finished writing your essay, read it back and make sure it responds positively to each of these questions:

  • Are these descriptions making my writing visual? Could I make them more vivid?
  • Have I used these descriptions to detail my emotions to the reader?
  • Do these descriptions convey each of the five senses?
  • Have I gone into enough details in each paragraph?
  • Are my descriptions in an orderly fashion?

If you believe your essay fits these criteria, then you’re good to go on the content side.

Perfecting the Essay

Double check your essay

Read it through a couple more times. Take some time away from it and then come back with a fresh mindset.  Correct any grammar issues you see, and double check that it answers all of the questions mentioned above. Once that’s done, you’ll have an essay worthy of an A+ grade.

From Our Writers: Tips on How to Write a Good Descriptive Essay

  • Be sensitive. Some writers are scared to show their true selves, but the point of a descriptive essay is to talk about how an object affects your senses and emotions. Keep this in mind during all stages of the essay.
  • Put effort into unique descriptions. Don’t settle for standard words, spend some time searching out alternatives to common descriptive words. It will only help the reader envision your thoughts.
  • Write about something that you care about. If you choose something you don’t have much personal experience with, you can’t truly write from the heart.

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Descriptive Essay

Descriptive Essay Topics

Last updated on: Nov 20, 2023

Interesting Descriptive Essay Topics Recommended by Experts

By: Cathy A.

Reviewed By: Jacklyn H.

Published on: Dec 24, 2019

Descriptive Essay Topics

Memories, imaginative situations, feelings, and impressions, writing a descriptive essay is absolutely fun for many college or university students. They get a chance to play with their creativity, which makes this type of essay so much fun.

Descriptive essays do not require a lot of research. They are based on the writer’s personal description and explanation of the selected, or given, topic. This essay type is ideal for school/college students because they are not very much into research.

However, one of the most common problems students face while writing an essay is choosing and picking the essay topic. The process of finding a good essay topic could be difficult, confusing, and time-consuming.

The descriptive essay format is the same; introduction, body paragraphs, and conclusion. However, the topics for a descriptive essay are different and require a high level of descriptive capability.

Descriptive Essay Topics

On this Page

Descriptive Essay Topics for Students

Here is a list of some good descriptive essay topic ideas. These are just topics and ideas, and you can customize them according to your requirements.

Descriptive Essay Topics for College Students

  • One week of a newly wedded couple.
  • A crazy jump with bungee.
  • Importance of college education.
  • The day when everything went wrong.
  • Education before anything.
  • How can one make the world a better place?
  • The magnificence of this universe.
  • The demand for love In everyone’s life.
  • Future of cloning on planet Earth.
  • Describe your day as a new college student.

Descriptive Essay Topics for Middle School Students

Finding the best writing topics for a descriptive essay is an important task to accomplish. Also, keep in mind that you will easily create the thesis statement if your topic is good. Here are some of the great essay topics for different grades.

Descriptive Essay Topics for Grade 7

  • Favorite cartoon character.
  • My favorite song.A special photograph.
  • A special place.An important time in history.
  • Building a fort.Creepy things.
  • Do I want to be famous?
  • Doing homework.
  • Going for fishing.

Descriptive Essay Topics for Grade 8

  • Favorite hobby.
  • What is your favorite movie?
  • Do you like gaming, and which game is your favorite?
  • Do you enjoy playing a sport?
  • Do you have an unusual talent?
  • What is your favorite subject, and why?
  • How to stop hiccups?
  • Let's help the animals.
  • Looking at the globe.
  • My favorite clothes.

Descriptive Essay Topics for High School Students

For your help, we categorized the descriptive essay topics into different academic grades. Choose the best one that you find interesting.

Descriptive Essay Topics for Grade 9

  • Where do you like to vacation and why?
  • What is the greatest lesson you have learned?
  • Who is your hero, and why?
  • If you could have a superpower, what would it be?
  • Who is your favorite band?Where do you want to go to college?
  • Important reasons why kids should have chores.
  • The benefits of summer school.
  • Staying at a friend's house.
  • What I use a computer for.

Descriptive Essay Topics for Grade 10

  • A game close to my heart.
  • Mobile Phone: boon or a curse?
  • What is your most treasured item?
  • Your favorite restaurant.
  • Your dream house.
  • Five qualities of a good roommate.
  • A note on your closet.
  • Your favorite childhood memory.
  • The ride on a subway train.
  • The street from home to school.

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Good Descriptive Essay Topics

Descriptive essays are only difficult when you have to decide what to write about. Here are some good and easy descriptive essay topics that you can explore to create one of your own.

  • My first day at the job and how I feel about it.
  • Most suffocating day at the workplace and how I survived it.
  • How to avoid negativity in the workplace?
  • How to be more positive with troublesome employees?
  • The best way to resolve a conflict and to avoid it in the future.
  • Miracles of staying focused at the workplace.
  • Importance of maintaining a healthy routine even if you have a tough job.
  • Most embarrassing moment in my office.
  • How to deal with deadline pressure?
  • Top 10 tips to invoke creativity and move ahead in your work.

Descriptive Essay Topics About Person

  • Describe your mother.
  • Discuss my pet.
  • Meeting a famous person.
  • A particular family or family member.
  • I miss them.
  • Memorable person.
  • My dad is the most interesting person.
  • Describe a person you hate.
  • My favorite school teacher.
  • Describe your favorite celebrity.

Easy Descriptive Essay Topics

  • Describe your favorite scene from the most recent movie that you have watched.
  • Describe the physical setting of your favorite soft drink’s TVC.
  • Describe the emotions depicted in the famous Mona Lisa painting.
  • Describe the plot of your favorite movie.
  • Describe your favorite fictional character and discuss why you like it.
  • Choose one abstract painting and describe the emotions depicted in it.
  • How your religious book impacted your inner thoughts?
  • A writer with whom you can relate the most.
  • What is your favorite type of dance; describe your emotions while dancing.
  • Describe your favorite tv-series and why you like watching it.

Best Descriptive Essay Topics

  • Describe an important event that impacted your personality.
  • Describe the psychological events that influenced your personality for the worse.
  • Describe the psychological events that influenced your personality for the better.
  • Describe your first or last day at your college.
  • Why do you enjoy bike riding?
  • Why do you think writing will impact your personality at a deeper level?
  • What did you feel when you held a baby for the first time?
  • Describe the loss of a family member in 800 words.
  • Describe how you would look without hair on your scalp in 900 words.
  • Why are stars compared with human personalities in poems?

Interesting Descriptive Essay Topics

  • All-time favorite movie character.
  • Movie of the century.
  • House that I have always wanted.
  • Most heart-touching poem.
  • Meeting my best friend after a long time.
  • My favorite book.
  • The most amazing thing that I remember.
  • First time I fell in love.
  • My first date.
  • The first time I went shopping on my own.

Descriptive Essay Topics About Memory

  • Describe the oldest memory that you can recall and why it has stuck with you.
  • Describe a time you were the happiest; who were you with?
  • Describe when something completely unexpected caught you off-guard.
  • Describe a memory that you hold close to someone who has passed away.
  • Describe your most embarrassing day or moment.
  • Describe a cold winter evening.
  • Describe the time you went to the beach on a bright sunny day.
  • Describe your first day at preschool; what do you remember about it?
  • Describe the first concert you attended.
  • Describe the time that you felt the most scared.

Descriptive Essay Topics About Object

  • Select five objects from the kitchen and describe their appearance.
  • Describe your prized possession.
  • Describe a room in your house and its most valued objects.
  • Describe your favorite outfit that you can never get rid of.
  • How will you describe a smartphone to someone from ancient times?
  • What role does the computer play in your life?
  • Objects you come across on the way to your school.
  • Describe your favorite toy as a kid.
  • Describe your safety blanket.
  • What objects would you bury in a time capsule?

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Descriptive Essay Topics About a Place

  • A trip to the mountains.
  • Describe your ideal bedroom.
  • Describe your favorite coffee shop.
  • The place I don’t forget.
  • A garden in the gas station.
  • My favorite classroom.
  • Describe the loudest place you visit.
  • An amazing trip to a beautiful valley.
  • Describe your favorite restaurant.
  • Describe your favorite park.

These are the best ideas or topics for a descriptive essay. Make sure you choose a topic of your interest that you are passionate about.

Once you have decided on the essay topic, the next step is to write a descriptive essay. With us, you can learn how to write a descriptive essay with helpful tips and samples.

However, if you are still confused about picking a topic for a descriptive essay, worry not! Consult 5StarEssays.com.

You only have to request to write my essay and leave all the work on our writers. We offer high-quality paper writing services for high school, college, and university students at affordable rates.

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Cathy A.

Education, Scholarship Essay

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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