What is an essay, and what are the key components of a good essay?

An essay is a piece of writing that presents a writer’s perspective on a particular topic or issue. The key components of a good essay include: 

• A clear and concise thesis statement that presents the writer’s main argument or position 
• A well-organized structure that guides the reader through the writer’s argument or discussion 
• Relevant and reliable evidence that supports the writer’s claims or assertions 
• Effective analysis and interpretation of the evidence to demonstrate how it supports the writer’s argument or position 
• A conclusion that summarizes the writer’s main points and provides a final reflection on the topic or issue.