The type of essay on the 2026 Mid-Year Exam in the United States is likely to be a persuasive essay. This is due to the increasing emphasis on critical thinking and argumentation skills in American education systems. According to the National Assessment of Educational Progress (NAEP), persuasive writing has been a staple in the exam format for years, reflecting its importance in preparing students for real-world communication and decision-making scenarios. The NAEP reports that persuasive writing is a key indicator of student readiness for college and career, as it requires students to construct logical arguments, support their claims with evidence, and address counterarguments. This focus on persuasive writing aligns with the Common Core State Standards, which emphasize the development of these skills across all grades.