research-backed statements of opinion on arguable topics

Written work based on their courses to be presented to their tutors.

A piece of written work, submitted by students as part of an assessment, which often has a word limit.

a document written by the respondent/defendant after researching a specific topic related to the offense committed, such as the economic impact of shoplifting on the community or the consequences of drinking and driving

'Essays' arepieces of written work, which are submitted by students to the university and is one form of assessment. Essays usually have a set number of words (depending on the subject or tutor, but often around 2000 words) and students are expected to answer a given question, showing that they have done some research and are able to discuss the issues clearly and logically. Essays are more commonly set in Arts/Humanities disciplines

Essays is the title of a book written by Michel de Montaigne that was first published in 1580. Montaigne essentially invented the literary form of essay, a short subjective treatment of a given topic, of which the book contains a large number. Essai is French for "trial" or "attempt".