An essay and a paragraph are not the same.
A paragraph is a unit of writing that consists of one or more sentences that discuss a single topic or idea. A paragraph usually begins with a topic sentence that states the main idea, and then the sentences that follow provide details, examples, or explanations to support the topic sentence. A paragraph is usually a part of a larger piece of writing, such as an essay, a story, or an article.
An essay, on the other hand, is a piece of writing that presents an argument or a point of view on a specific topic. It is usually longer than a paragraph and is made up of multiple paragraphs that are organized in a logical order. An essay typically includes an introduction, body paragraphs, and a conclusion. An essay is usually written for academic or educational purposes, although it can also be written for other purposes such as for personal expression or for professional advancement.
In summary, a paragraph is a unit of writing that discusses one specific topic or idea, while an essay is a longer piece of writing that presents an argument or point of view on a specific topic, made up of multiple paragraphs organized in a logical order.