Genres of Writing

We use the term genres to describe categories of written texts that have recognizable patterns, syntax, techniques, and/or conventions. This list represents genres students can expect to encounter during their time at Duke. The list is not intended to be inclusive of all genres but rather representative of the most common ones. Click on each genre for detailed information (definition, questions to ask, actions to take, and helpful links).

  1. Abstract (UNC)
  2. Academic Email
  3. Annotated Bibliography
  4. Argument Essay
  5. Autobiographical Reflection
  6. Blogs (Introduction)
  7. Blogs (Academic)
  8. Book Review
  9. Business Letter (Purdue)
  10. Close Reading
  11. Compare/Contrast: see Relating Multiple Texts
  12. Concert Review
  13. Cover Letter
  14. Creative Non-fiction
  15. Creative Writing
  16. Curriculum Vitae
  17. Essay Exams (Purdue)
  18. Ethnography
  19. Film Review
  20. Grant Proposals (UNC)
  21. Group Essays
  22. Letters to the Editor
  23. Literature Review
  24. Mission Statement
  25. Op-ed
  26. Oral Presentations
  27. Performance Review
  28. Personal Statement: Humanities
  29. Personal Statement: Professional School/Scholarship
  30. Poetry Explication
  31. Policy Memo
  32. Presentation: Convert your Paper into a Talk
  33. Program II Duke Application Tips
  34. Relating Multiple Texts
  35. Research and Grant Proposals
  36. Response/Reaction Paper
  37. Resume, Non-academic (useful list of action verbs from Boston College)
  38. Science Writing:
    1. Scientific Article Review
    2. Scientific Writing for Scientists (quick tips)
    3. Scientific Writing for Scientists: Improving Clarity
    4. Scientific Writing for a Popular Audience
    5. Scientific Jargon
  39. Summary
  40. Timed Essays/Essay Exams
  41. Visual Analysis