* Personal essays: These essays focus on your own experiences, thoughts, and feelings. While you may draw upon your own research or observations, the primary source is your own personal perspective.
* Creative writing: This includes fiction, poetry, and other forms of creative expression. While research may inform the setting, characters, or plot, the focus is on your own imagination and storytelling.
* Process essays: These essays explain how to do something, step-by-step. While you may need to research specific techniques, the focus is on providing clear instructions based on your own knowledge or expertise.
* Reflective essays: These essays explore your own thoughts and feelings on a particular topic. They can draw on personal experiences and observations, but they don't necessarily require secondary sources.
* Descriptive essays: These essays aim to paint a vivid picture using descriptive language. While you might use some research to enhance your description, the main focus is on your own observations and sensory details.
However, it's important to note that even in these types of essays, using secondary sources can often enhance your writing. They can provide support for your arguments, introduce new perspectives, and broaden your understanding of the topic.
Ultimately, the decision of whether or not to use secondary sources depends on the specific requirements of the essay and the overall purpose of your writing.