Writing Essays, Articles & Reviews – Structure, Style & Skills

What Are Essays, Articles, and Reviews?

These are three types of informative and persuasive writing used in newspapers, magazines, books, and exams. Each has a different purpose, audience, and style.

1. Essays

• Definition: A short piece of writing that explores a topic in detail, often presenting an argument or analysis.
• Purpose: To inform, persuade, or analyze a subject.
• Audience: Readers who want deep understanding (e.g., students, professionals).
• Types in NEB exams:
  • Argumentative essay (takes a stance)
  • Expository essay (explains facts)
  • Descriptive essay (paints a picture with words)

2. Articles

• Definition: A news-based or feature piece published in newspapers/magazines.
• Purpose: To inform, entertain, or discuss current issues.
• Audience: General readers (not just students).
• Types in NEB exams:
  • News article (reports facts)
  • Feature article (deeper storytelling)

3. Reviews

• Definition: A critical evaluation of a book, movie, product, or event.
• Purpose: To analyze strengths/weaknesses and give an opinion.
• Audience: People deciding whether to buy, watch, or read something.

---

How to Structure Each Type

A. Essay Structure (5-Paragraph Format)

Most NEB essays follow this clear, logical structure:

Key Tips for Essays: ✔ Thesis statement = Your main argument (1 sentence). ✔ Each body paragraph = 1 idea + evidence + explanation. ✔ Formal language: Avoid contractions ("don’t" → "do not"). ✔ No "I" or "you": Use passive voice ("It is argued that...").

---

B. Article Structure (Inverted Pyramid Style)

Articles start with the most important info and add details later.

Key Tips for Articles: ✔ Active voice ("The government banned plastics" vs. "Plastics were banned by the government"). ✔ Short sentences (easy to read). ✔ Quotes from experts add credibility.

---

C. Review Structure (Balanced Critique)

Reviews analyze + evaluate (not just summary).

Key Tips for Reviews: ✔ Be honest (don’t just praise—mention flaws). ✔ Use examples ("The desert scenes are stunning because..."). ✔ End with a clear recommendation.

---

Grammar & Style Rules for All Three

---

Common Mistakes to Avoid

1. Weak Thesis: ❌ "Social media is bad." ✅ "Social media harms teenagers by reducing real interactions and increasing anxiety."
2. No Evidence: ❌ "Social media causes depression." ✅ "A 2023 study by WHO found that teens with high social media use have 40% higher depression rates."
3. Repetition: ❌ "Social media is bad. It’s also harmful." ✅ "Social media harms mental health in two ways:..."
4. Informal Language: ❌ "This movie was lit!" ✅ "The film’s visual effects were stunning and immersive."
5. Plagiarism: Always paraphrase and cite sources.

---

NEB-Style Model Answers

1. Essay (Argumentative)

Topic: "Mobile phones have more advantages than disadvantages."

Model Answer:

The Impact of Mobile Phones: A Double-Edged Sword In today’s digital age, mobile phones have become essential tools, revolutionizing communication, education, and business. While critics argue that excessive phone use leads to addiction and health problems, the advantages—such as instant connectivity, educational access, and economic growth—far outweigh the disadvantages.

First, mobile phones bridge communication gaps. In Nepal, where rural areas lack landlines, smartphones allow villagers to connect with doctors, banks, and relatives instantly. For example, during the 2015 earthquake, mobile networks helped rescue teams locate survivors. Without phones, emergency responses would have been slower.

Second, phones enhance education. Apps like Khan Academy and Byju’s provide free lessons, helping students in remote areas learn science and math. A 2022 study found that Nepali students using educational apps scored 20% higher in exams. Thus, phones are not just distractions but learning tools.

Finally, mobile technology boosts the economy. Small businesses use phones for online payments (e.g., Khalti, eSewa), reducing cash dependency. In 2023, Nepal’s digital transaction volume grew by 35%, thanks to mobile banking. This growth creates jobs and reduces poverty.

While mobile phones can cause eye strain or social isolation if overused, their benefits are undeniable. Governments and families should promote responsible use—setting screen-time limits and encouraging outdoor activities. In conclusion, mobile phones are transformative tools that improve lives when used wisely.

Why This Works: ✔ Strong thesis (advantages > disadvantages). ✔ Clear structure (3 body paragraphs with evidence). ✔ Formal language (no slang). ✔ Balanced view (acknowledges downsides but focuses on upsides).

---

2. Article (Feature Piece)

Topic: "How Nepali Students Are Using Social Media for Learning"

#StudyTok: How Nepali Students Are Turning Social Media into Classrooms By Anil KC, Kathmandu, May 15, 2024

KATHMANDU – When 17-year-old Sita from Pokhara struggled with chemistry, she didn’t open a textbook—she scrolled to #StudyTok. Today, platforms like TikTok, YouTube, and Instagram are becoming unexpected classrooms for Nepali students, offering free, engaging lessons in subjects from coding to history.

The trend began during COVID-19 lockdowns, when schools closed and students turned to short-form videos for explanations. "A 10-minute TikTok video on photosynthesis is easier than reading a 20-page chapter," says Sita, who aced her SEE exam last year thanks to #NEBStudyTips playlists. Teachers like Mr. Bhandari (a popular YouTuber) break down complex topics into bite-sized lessons, complete with memes and quizzes.

But not all educators approve. Dr. Pradhan, a psychology professor at TU, warns that passive learning (watching videos without practice) can be ineffective. "Students remember only 10% of what they watch unless they apply it," he says. To fix this, creators like @NepalLearn now include interactive quizzes and downloadable notes.

The government is catching on. In 2023, the Education Ministry launched "Digital Gurukul," a platform curating verified study content from teachers. "We’re not replacing classrooms but supplementing them," says Minister Gautam Thapa. Meanwhile, students are using Instagram Reels to teach each other—from Nepali grammar to programming in Python.

For now, #StudyTok remains a double-edged sword: a tool for self-learning but also a distraction. As Sita puts it, "The key is balance—use social media to learn, not just to scroll." With 8 million Nepali students online, the digital classroom is here to stay.

Why This Works: ✔ Engaging lead (hook + key stats). ✔ Quotes from experts (adds credibility). ✔ Solutions (how to use social media effectively). ✔ Short paragraphs (easy to read).

---

3. Review (Book Review)

Topic: Review The Kite Runner by Khaled Hosseini.

The Kite Runner: A Heartbreaking Tale of Redemption By Sarita Adhikari

Khaled Hosseini’s The Kite Runner (2003) is a powerful novel set against the backdrop of Afghanistan’s war and exile. The story follows Amir, a wealthy boy in Kabul, who betrays his childhood friend Hassan to win a kite-flying tournament. Decades later, guilt drives Amir to seek redemption. While the book’s emotional depth and historical context make it a masterpiece, its slow pacing and predictable plot may frustrate some readers.

The novel excels in character development. Amir’s journey from cowardice to courage is compelling, and Hassan’s loyalty—despite his lower social status—adds moral complexity. The symbolism of the kite (freedom, guilt) is brilliantly woven throughout. Hosseini’s vivid descriptions of Kabul’s beauty and the horrors of war create a cinematic experience. The subplot of Sohrab, a traumatized orphan, adds another layer of human suffering.

However, the book has weaknesses. The ending feels rushed, with Amir’s redemption coming too easily. Some readers may also find the dialogue stiff (e.g., long philosophical speeches). Additionally, the lack of female perspectives (only minor characters like Amir’s mother) limits the story’s scope.

Final Verdict: 4.5/5 stars – The Kite Runner is a must-read for anyone interested in war, friendship, and forgiveness. Best for adults and older teens who enjoy emotional, thought-provoking fiction. While not perfect, its universal themes ensure its place as a modern classic.

Why This Works: ✔ Balanced critique (praises + criticizes fairly). ✔ Specific examples ("The kite symbolizes..."). ✔ Clear recommendation (who should read it?).

---

NEB Exam Practice Questions

1. Essay (10 Marks)

Topic: "Is democracy the best form of government? Discuss with examples from Nepal and another country."

Answer Outline:

1. Introduction:
   • Define democracy ("government by the people").
   • Thesis: "While democracy has strengths like freedom and accountability, its slow decision-making and corruption in countries like Nepal and India show that it may not be ‘perfect’ but remains the best system compared to authoritarianism."
2. Body Paragraph 1 (Advantages):
   • Freedom of speech/press (e.g., Nepal’s 2015 constitution guarantees press freedom).
   • Peaceful transfers of power (e.g., India’s 2014 election).
3. Body Paragraph 2 (Disadvantages):
   • Slow decisions (e.g., Nepal’s 2015 constitution took 10 years).
   • Corruption (e.g., India’s 2023 Transparency International ranking: 81st).
4. Body Paragraph 3 (Better than alternatives):
   • Compare to dictatorships (e.g., North Korea’s lack of rights).
   • Hybrid systems (e.g., Singapore’s "illiberal democracy") show democracy is still superior for long-term stability.
5. Conclusion:
   • Restate thesis + call for stronger democratic institutions in Nepal.

---

2. Article (8 Marks)

Topic: "Write a news article on ‘The Rise of Electric Vehicles in Nepal.’"

Answer Outline:

1. Headline: "Nepal’s Electric Revolution: From Scooters to E-Cars, the Future is Here"
2. Byline: By Ramesh Gurung, Kathmandu, April 20, 2024
3. Lead: "KATHMANDU – Nepal’s roads are changing. With 10,000 electric two-wheelers sold in 2023 and the first electric buses launched in Kathmandu, the Himalayan nation is embracing green transport faster than expected. Experts credit government subsidies and rising fuel prices for the shift, but challenges like charging infrastructure remain."
4. Body:
   • Why it’s growing: Government’s 50% subsidy on EVs, Rs. 500,000 tax cut for electric cars.
   • Examples: Hero Electric (India) scooters now outsell petrol bikes in Pokhara. Nepal Electric Vehicle Association predicts 1 million EVs by 2030.
   • Challenges: Only 50 charging stations in Kathmandu; battery costs are high.
   • Expert quote: "If Nepal invests in solar-powered charging, we can leapfrog fossil fuels," says Dr. Sharma, an energy expert.
5. Conclusion: "With global pressure to cut emissions, Nepal’s EV boom is a step forward. But success depends on better charging networks and public awareness. The future of Nepal’s roads is electric—if the government keeps pushing."

---

3. Review (6 Marks)

Topic: "Review a Nepali movie you’ve watched (e.g., Loot, Bhooter Bhai, or Muna Madan)."

Answer Outline:

1. Introduction:
   • Movie name, director, year, brief plot (e.g., "Loot (2018) directed by Nitesh Tiwari is a crime thriller about a man who steals a mysterious box. While the twist ending is satisfying, the slow first half may frustrate some viewers.").
2. Summary:
   • Main events (without spoilers): "The story follows Rahul (played by Pawan Chandra Kalyan) who, after a failed robbery, stumbles upon a box containing a child’s diary with clues to a long-lost treasure."
3. Analysis:
   • ✅ Strengths:
     • Strong performances (especially Rahul’s emotional arc).
     • Cinematography (dark, moody visuals).
   • ❌ Weaknesses:
     • Predictable plot (viewers guess the twist early).
     • Dialogue feels forced in some scenes.
4. Conclusion:
   • Rating: 3.5/5 – "Loot is a gripping watch for fans of mystery thrillers, but its pacing issues hold it back. Best for adults who enjoy slow-burn suspense."

---

Exam Tip: How to Score Full Marks

1. Follow the Structure:

   • Essays: 5 paragraphs (intro + 3 body + conclusion).
   • Articles: Inverted pyramid (most important first).
   • Reviews: Summary + Analysis + Verdict.

2. Use Evidence:

   • NEB loves stats, quotes, and examples. Always cite sources (e.g., "A 2023 study by WHO found...").

3. Formal Language:

   • Avoid:
     • Contractions ("don’t" → "do not").
     • Slang ("cool" → "excellent").
     • Informal words ("stuff" → "items").

4. Answer the Question Fully:

   • If asked "Discuss advantages and disadvantages," give both—don’t just list pros.

5. Proofread:

   • Check for:
     • Spelling ("seperate" → "separate").
     • Grammar ("She go to school" → "She goes to school").
     • Punctuation (commas after introductory phrases).

6. Time Management:

   • Essay (10 marks): ~15 mins planning, 30 mins writing.
   • Article/Review (6-8 marks): ~10 mins planning, 20 mins writing.

---

Final Checklist Before Submitting

---

Remember: NEB exams test clarity, structure, and critical thinking. Practice writing daily—even short paragraphs—to improve your skills. Good luck! 🚀