Used and loved by millions
Since I tried Ludwig back in 2017, I have been constantly using it in both editing and translation. Ever since, I suggest it to my translators at ProSciEditing.

Justyna Jupowicz-Kozak
CEO of Professional Science Editing for Scientists @ prosciediting.com
this essay discusses
Grammar usage guide and real-world examplesUSAGE SUMMARY
The sentence 'This essay discusses...' is correct and usable in written English.
It is often used as an introductory sentence to precede the main topic of an essay or paper. For example, "This essay discusses the various challenges faced by small businesses during the pandemic."
✓ Grammatically correct
Academia
Science
News & Media
Table of contents
Usage summary
Human-verified examples
Expert writing tips
Linguistic context
Ludwig's wrap-up
Alternative expressions
FAQs
Human-verified examples from authoritative sources
Exact Expressions
30 human-written examples
This essay discusses various aspects of this policy debate.
Academia
This essay discusses issues related to establishing causal relationships in empirical survey research.
This essay discusses the strength and weaknesses of the so-called linear model (LM) of innovation.
Science
This essay discusses artspeak about music, with particular reference to pop music.
Science
This essay discusses some of the trends in opioid pharmacotherapy over the past 25 years.
Science
This essay discusses several aspects of the Harvard experience with Legislation and Regulation.
Academia
Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources
Similar Expressions
30 human-written examples
Second, the essay discusses the course's strategy for fitting novel and somewhat different techniques, materials, and concepts into a 1L course.
Academia
Next, the essay discusses two advanced reactor designs, the integrated fast reactor (IFR) and the deep-burn modular helium reactor (DB-MHR), which could augment the current fleet or possibly even replace it, making nuclear power more viable in the long term by providing a more comprehensive waste solution.
Then, the essay discusses several of the policy reforms advanced by the Administration to reduce the risks of future catastrophic oil spills, including the value of an industry consortium to provide deepwater well containment resources and the need to remove the arbitrary limit on liability for economic damages from offshore drilling.
Academia
To elaborate on these premises, the essay discusses four fundamental and interpenetrating domains of feminist theory: representation, the body, identity, and activism, suggesting some critical inquiries that considering disability can generate within these theoretical arenas.
Academia
Be sure that you give the exact topic or problem that the essay discusses.
Wiki
Expert writing Tips
Best practice
Follow "this essay discusses" with a concise summary of the key points or arguments that will be covered.
Common error
Avoid using "this essay discusses" without clearly stating the specific topic or problem. Instead of saying "This essay discusses many things", be specific, such as "This essay discusses the impact of social media on political campaigns."
Source & Trust
91%
Authority and reliability
4.5/5
Expert rating
Real-world application tested
Linguistic Context
The phrase "this essay discusses" serves as an introductory statement, primarily functioning to signal the topic or theme that the essay will address. It's a common way to set the stage for the reader. Ludwig AI indicates this is correct and usable in written English.
Frequent in
Academia
53%
Science
30%
News & Media
17%
Less common in
Encyclopedias
0%
Wiki
0%
Formal & Business
0%
Ludwig's WRAP-UP
In summary, "this essay discusses" is a grammatically sound and frequently used phrase for introducing the central topic of an essay. As Ludwig AI confirms, it’s a clear and direct way to inform readers about the essay's focus. It's particularly common in academic writing, scientific publications, and news media, offering a neutral to formal tone. While it effectively sets the stage, writers should ensure the topic is specific and well-defined. Alternatives like "this essay examines" or "this essay analyzes" can add nuance depending on the desired emphasis.
More alternative expressions(10)
Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:
this essay examines
Replaces 'discusses' with 'examines', suggesting a more detailed and analytical approach.
this essay explores
Uses 'explores' instead of 'discusses', implying a broader, less defined investigation.
this essay analyzes
Employs 'analyzes', indicating a focus on breaking down and interpreting components.
this essay considers
Substitutes 'discusses' with 'considers', conveying a more thoughtful and reflective tone.
this essay investigates
Replaces 'discusses' with 'investigates', highlighting a more methodical and in-depth inquiry.
in this essay, I will discuss
Adds a personal element ('I') and shifts the focus slightly to the author's intention.
the purpose of this essay is to discuss
More formal and explicitly states the essay's objective.
this paper addresses
Uses 'paper' instead of 'essay' and 'addresses' instead of 'discusses', suitable for academic or formal contexts.
this essay presents
Replaces 'discusses' with 'presents', emphasizing the offering of information or arguments.
the following essay will discuss
Adds 'the following', creating a slightly more formal and anticipatory tone.
FAQs
How can I use "this essay discusses" in a sentence?
You can use "this essay discusses" to introduce the main topic or argument of your essay. For example, "This essay discusses the effects of climate change on coastal communities." You can also use alternatives like "this essay examines" or "this essay explores".
What is a more formal way to say "this essay discusses"?
More formal alternatives include "the purpose of this essay is to discuss", or "this paper addresses". These options provide a more explicit and professional tone, suitable for academic or business contexts.
What can I say instead of "this essay discusses"?
You can use phrases like "this essay analyzes", "this essay considers", or "this essay investigates" to provide variety and emphasize different aspects of your essay's content. The best choice will depend on the particular focus and tone you want to convey.
Is it acceptable to use "this essay discusses" in academic writing?
Yes, "this essay discusses" is a perfectly acceptable and common phrase to use in academic writing to introduce the essay's main topic or argument. However, make sure to follow it with a clear and concise statement of what the essay will cover. You can also use "this paper addresses".
Editing plus AI, all in one place.
Stop switching between tools. Your AI writing partner for everything—polishing proposals, crafting emails, finding the right tone.
Table of contents
Usage summary
Human-verified examples
Expert writing tips
Linguistic context
Ludwig's wrap-up
Alternative expressions
FAQs
Source & Trust
91%
Authority and reliability
4.5/5
Expert rating
Real-world application tested