What does an anthology typically compile?

An anthology is a published collection of various works, often centered around a specific theme, genre, or author. The key characteristic of an anthology is that it brings together multiple pieces—such as poems, short stories, essays, or excerpts—from different writers in one volume. This allows readers to experience a variety of voices and styles within a single book, making it a valuable resource for both enjoyment and education. The intent behind creating an anthology is to showcase a curated selection of works that highlight a particular subject or to celebrate literary contributions of various authors.

In contrast, the other options represent different types of compilations. A series of critical essays focuses on analyzing an author's work rather than compiling their writings. Instructional documents are typically practical guides or manuals, and user reviews are subjective assessments of products or services, not a creative collection. Thus, the definition of an anthology aligns closely with the idea of a published collection of poems or writings.