An advantages and disadvantages essay is a type of essay where you discuss the pros and cons of a specific topic or issue, while a discussion essay requires you to discuss different viewpoints and give your own opinion on a particular topic or issue.

While some advantages and disadvantages essays ask for your opinion, in others, you are expected to present both the advantages and disadvantages of the topic in a balanced way, without taking a stance. In this type of essay, you may give examples and provide evidence to support your points, but you should not argue for or against the topic.

In a discussion essay, you are required to discuss different perspectives on a topic and give your own opinion. You need to present the arguments for and against the topic and weigh them up. Then, you should provide your own view and justify it with evidence and examples.

While both essay types require you to present different viewpoints, the main difference lies in the purpose and focus of the essay. An advantages and disadvantages essay is more focused on presenting a balanced view of the topic, while a discussion essay requires you to analyze different perspectives and provide your own opinion.