The term “memoir essay” is used to describe something akin to a personal essay. Definitions bleed every direction, but I tend to think of a memoir essay as decidedly NOT like an op-ed, and definitely not a reported personal essay. It’s a pure narrative from the author’s life.

These online personal essay classes allow you to learn the technical tools and skills for sharing your life’s experiences and stories with a wider audience. I love teaching personal essay classes, and I’m always surprised that there aren’t more essay classes out there—so many people have wonderful stories that deserve publication.

n preparation for my first self-guided class (Writing Your Modern Love), I read scores of Modern Love essays. For those who haven’t heard of it, Modern Love is the popular NYT weekly column, which has spawned countless books since its inception in 2004. For the class, I didn’t only read all of the essays from this year, and essays about the essays, but a lot of attempts at the Modern Love by clients and students.

My favorite personal essays showcase a vivid personality and clear mind or perception of the world. I find these qualities more engaging than really amazing material. There are good essays focusing on horrifying or remarkable stories—a hitchhiker who survives an encounter with a serial killer targeting hitchhikers, for example.

Insider tips and advice on what editors are really looking for when seeking out essays, including best essay topics, revision techniques, and more.