College Composition
Essay Practice Prompts and Sample Responses

Overview

Practice makes progress. In this section, you’ll find a collection of realistic prompts and example responses to help you apply the writing skills you've developed. Use these to test your planning, thesis construction, argumentation, and synthesis techniques under exam-like conditions.

Essay Prompt Types

Practice Prompts

1. Argument Prompt

“Should employers allow remote work as a permanent option?” Defend your position with evidence and examples.

2. Synthesis Prompt

Two articles are provided: one highlights increased productivity from remote work; the other warns of isolation and poor team cohesion. Write a synthesis essay that forms your own position and uses both articles to support it.

3. Analytical Prompt

Read a speech by Greta Thunberg. Analyze how she uses rhetorical devices to persuade her audience.

4. Reflective Prompt

“Describe a time when you had to change your mind about a major issue.” What led to your change, and what did you learn?

Sample Response (Argument)

Prompt: Should college education be free for all students?

Sample Thesis: College should be free because it increases access, boosts the economy, and reduces student debt burdens.

Sample Topic Sentence: First, making college tuition-free would open doors for underserved communities.
Support: Evidence shows that countries with free education have higher rates of upward mobility.
Counterpoint: While some argue this would raise taxes, the long-term benefits outweigh the costs.

Tip: Set a timer and write a full response to one of the prompts above. Then review it for thesis clarity, organization, and use of evidence.