Have a language expert improve your writing

Run a free plagiarism check in 10 minutes, generate accurate citations for free.

  • Knowledge Base
  • How to write an expository essay

How to Write an Expository Essay | Structure, Tips & Examples

Published on July 14, 2020 by Jack Caulfield . Revised on July 23, 2023.

“Expository” means “intended to explain or describe something.” An expository essay provides a clear, focused explanation of a particular topic, process, or set of ideas. It doesn’t set out to prove a point, just to give a balanced view of its subject matter.

Expository essays are usually short assignments intended to test your composition skills or your understanding of a subject. They tend to involve less research and original arguments than argumentative essays .

Instantly correct all language mistakes in your text

Upload your document to correct all your mistakes in minutes

upload-your-document-ai-proofreader

Table of contents

When should you write an expository essay, how to approach an expository essay, introducing your essay, writing the body paragraphs, concluding your essay, other interesting articles, frequently asked questions about expository essays.

In school and university, you might have to write expository essays as in-class exercises, exam questions, or coursework assignments.

Sometimes it won’t be directly stated that the assignment is an expository essay, but there are certain keywords that imply expository writing is required. Consider the prompts below.

The word “explain” here is the clue: An essay responding to this prompt should provide an explanation of this historical process—not necessarily an original argument about it.

Sometimes you’ll be asked to define a particular term or concept. This means more than just copying down the dictionary definition; you’ll be expected to explore different ideas surrounding the term, as this prompt emphasizes.

Here's why students love Scribbr's proofreading services

Discover proofreading & editing

An expository essay should take an objective approach: It isn’t about your personal opinions or experiences. Instead, your goal is to provide an informative and balanced explanation of your topic. Avoid using the first or second person (“I” or “you”).

The structure of your expository essay will vary according to the scope of your assignment and the demands of your topic. It’s worthwhile to plan out your structure before you start, using an essay outline .

A common structure for a short expository essay consists of five paragraphs: An introduction, three body paragraphs, and a conclusion.

Like all essays, an expository essay begins with an introduction . This serves to hook the reader’s interest, briefly introduce your topic, and provide a thesis statement summarizing what you’re going to say about it.

Hover over different parts of the example below to see how a typical introduction works.

In many ways, the invention of the printing press marked the end of the Middle Ages. The medieval period in Europe is often remembered as a time of intellectual and political stagnation. Prior to the Renaissance, the average person had very limited access to books and was unlikely to be literate. The invention of the printing press in the 15th century allowed for much less restricted circulation of information in Europe, paving the way for the Reformation.

The body of your essay is where you cover your topic in depth. It often consists of three paragraphs, but may be more for a longer essay. This is where you present the details of the process, idea or topic you’re explaining.

It’s important to make sure each paragraph covers its own clearly defined topic, introduced with a topic sentence . Different topics (all related to the overall subject matter of the essay) should be presented in a logical order, with clear transitions between paragraphs.

Hover over different parts of the example paragraph below to see how a body paragraph is constructed.

The invention of the printing press in 1440 changed this situation dramatically. Johannes Gutenberg, who had worked as a goldsmith, used his knowledge of metals in the design of the press. He made his type from an alloy of lead, tin, and antimony, whose durability allowed for the reliable production of high-quality books. This new technology allowed texts to be reproduced and disseminated on a much larger scale than was previously possible. The Gutenberg Bible appeared in the 1450s, and a large number of printing presses sprang up across the continent in the following decades. Gutenberg’s invention rapidly transformed cultural production in Europe; among other things, it would lead to the Protestant Reformation.

Prevent plagiarism. Run a free check.

The conclusion of an expository essay serves to summarize the topic under discussion. It should not present any new information or evidence, but should instead focus on reinforcing the points made so far. Essentially, your conclusion is there to round off the essay in an engaging way.

Hover over different parts of the example below to see how a conclusion works.

The invention of the printing press was important not only in terms of its immediate cultural and economic effects, but also in terms of its major impact on politics and religion across Europe. In the century following the invention of the printing press, the relatively stationary intellectual atmosphere of the Middle Ages gave way to the social upheavals of the Reformation and the Renaissance. A single technological innovation had contributed to the total reshaping of the continent.

If you want to know more about AI tools , college essays , or fallacies make sure to check out some of our other articles with explanations and examples or go directly to our tools!

  • Ad hominem fallacy
  • Post hoc fallacy
  • Appeal to authority fallacy
  • False cause fallacy
  • Sunk cost fallacy

College essays

  • Choosing Essay Topic
  • Write a College Essay
  • Write a Diversity Essay
  • College Essay Format & Structure
  • Comparing and Contrasting in an Essay

 (AI) Tools

  • Grammar Checker
  • Paraphrasing Tool
  • Text Summarizer
  • AI Detector
  • Plagiarism Checker
  • Citation Generator

An expository essay is a broad form that varies in length according to the scope of the assignment.

Expository essays are often assigned as a writing exercise or as part of an exam, in which case a five-paragraph essay of around 800 words may be appropriate.

You’ll usually be given guidelines regarding length; if you’re not sure, ask.

An expository essay is a common assignment in high-school and university composition classes. It might be assigned as coursework, in class, or as part of an exam.

Sometimes you might not be told explicitly to write an expository essay. Look out for prompts containing keywords like “explain” and “define.” An expository essay is usually the right response to these prompts.

An argumentative essay tends to be a longer essay involving independent research, and aims to make an original argument about a topic. Its thesis statement makes a contentious claim that must be supported in an objective, evidence-based way.

An expository essay also aims to be objective, but it doesn’t have to make an original argument. Rather, it aims to explain something (e.g., a process or idea) in a clear, concise way. Expository essays are often shorter assignments and rely less on research.

Cite this Scribbr article

If you want to cite this source, you can copy and paste the citation or click the “Cite this Scribbr article” button to automatically add the citation to our free Citation Generator.

Caulfield, J. (2023, July 23). How to Write an Expository Essay | Structure, Tips & Examples. Scribbr. Retrieved February 21, 2024, from https://www.scribbr.com/academic-essay/expository-essay/

Is this article helpful?

Jack Caulfield

Jack Caulfield

Other students also liked, academic paragraph structure | step-by-step guide & examples, how to write topic sentences | 4 steps, examples & purpose, how to write an argumentative essay | examples & tips, what is your plagiarism score.

  • Features for Creative Writers
  • Features for Work
  • Features for Higher Education
  • Features for Teachers
  • Features for Non-Native Speakers
  • Learn Blog Grammar Guide Community Academy FAQ
  • Grammar Guide

Expository Writing: Definition and Examples

Hannah Yang headshot

Hannah Yang

expository writing

Table of Contents

What is expository writing, what is an expository paragraph, expository writing examples, how prowritingaid can help you with expository composition.

One of the most common types of writing is expository writing. Whether you’re a student taking an English class or a professional trying to communicate to others in your field, you’ll need to use expository writing in your day-to-day work.

So, what exactly does this term mean?

The short answer is that expository writing refers to any writing designed primarily to explain or instruct.

Read on to learn the definition of expository writing as well as some examples of what this type of writing can look like.

Before we look at examples of expository writing, let’s start with a quick definition of what this term actually means.

Expository Writing Definition

The term expository writing refers to any writing that’s designed to explain something. We use the word expository to describe any passage of writing that’s supposed to present information and help you understand it in an objective way.

Some common examples of expository writing include academic essays, textbooks, instructional guides, and news reports. Good expository writing should be factual, objective, and clear.

expository writing definition

To better understand what this term means, think about the difference between a scientific article, a short story, and an advertisement.

The scientific article is considered expository writing because its primary purpose is to explain a particular topic in more detail. It presents data, analyzes what that data means, and focuses on the facts.  

On the other hand, the short story isn’t considered expository writing, because its core purpose isn’t to explain or inform—instead, it’s probably trying to entertain you or to take you on a journey. Short stories are narrative writing.

Similarly, an advertisement isn’t expository writing because its core purpose isn’t to explain or inform—instead, it’s trying to persuade you to buy what it’s selling. Advertisements are persuasive writing.   

Here’s a quick rundown of what expository essays should and shouldn’t do.

An expository essay should:

Teach the reader about a particular topic

Focus on the facts

Follow a clearly organized structure

Present information and details from credible sources

An expository essay should not:

Try to change the reader’s mind about something

Present the author’s personal opinions

Include made-up narratives or stories

Follow experimental or nonlinear structures

3 types of writing

An expository paragraph is exactly what it sounds like—a paragraph of expository writing.

A well-written expository paragraph should follow a specific format to make it as clear and easy to read as possible. Most expository paragraphs do the following things:

Start with a topic sentence, which explains what the paragraph will be about

Then, include 3 – 5 body sentences that provide supporting details for the topic sentence

Finally, wrap things up with a closing sentence that summarizes what the paragraph has said

Writing an expository paragraph is a great way to practice expository writing. That’s because the paragraph follows the same structure as a more complex expository essay, just on a smaller scale.

Most expository essays should follow this format:  

Start with an introductory paragraph that includes the thesis statement, which tells the reader the core statement of the essay

Then, include 3 – 5 body paragraphs that provide factual evidence to support the thesis statement

Finally, wrap things up with a concluding paragraph that summarizes what the body paragraphs and thesis statement said

You can see the similarities between the two formats. If you can write a fantastic expository paragraph, you’ll be well-prepared to move on to writing a full expository essay.

Example of Expository Paragraph

Here’s an example of an expository paragraph that follows the structure described above.

The leading cause of death in the United States is heart disease, which can be fatal if it leads to heart attack or cardiac arrest. Heart attacks occur when a blockage in the coronary artery prevents oxygenated blood from reaching the heart. Cardiac arrests occur when the heart stops pumping entirely, which prevents the patient from breathing normally. Both of these problems can be deadly, even in seemingly healthy people who don’t have noticeable risk factors. As a result, heart disease is an important problem that many doctors and scientists are researching.

definition of expository essay writing

Good writing = better grades

ProWritingAid will help you improve the style, strength, and clarity of all your assignments.

There are many ways you can present information in an expository essay. Here are four of the most popular ways, along with examples of each one.  

Problem and Solution Essay

A problem and solution essay presents the reader with a problem and then considers possible solutions to that problem. 

Here’s an example passage you might find in a problem and solution essay:

Among the many proposed solutions to rising carbon emissions, one promising possibility is carbon trapping. Scientists are figuring out how to pull carbon emissions out of the atmosphere and trap it in less harmful forms, such as by injecting carbon dioxide underground so it will turn to stone.

Compare and Contrast Essay

This type of essay takes two subjects and compares and contrasts them. It focuses on highlighting the differences and similarities between those two things.

Here’s an example passage of this type of expository writing:

Though country music and R&B music have very different sounds, they also share many similarities. For one thing, both types of music embody a specific cultural identity. For another, both genres trace their roots back to the 1920s, when the Victor Talking Machine Company signed singers from the American South.

Classification Essay

In a classification essay, you describe the categories within a certain group of things.  

Here’s an example passage you might find in a classification essay:

There are three ways in which artificial intelligence might become stronger than humans in the future: high speed, high collective intelligence, and high quality. A speed AI would be able to perform calculations and experience the world much faster than humans. A collective intelligence, like a hive mind, would be able to break down a complex task into several parts and pursue them simultaneously. Finally, a quality AI would simply be able to solve more complex problems than humans could.

Process Essay

In a process essay, you give the reader the steps for completing a specific process. This is similar to a how-to guide or an instruction manual.   

Here’s an example passage you might find in this type of expository writing:

Caramelize the chopped onions in a frying pan. When the onions have caramelized, mix in the bell peppers, mushrooms, and tomatoes and stir for 4 – 6 minutes or until all the ingredients have softened. If you want to add meat, you can add ground beef and cook for another 4 – 6 minutes. Season with salt and pepper to taste.  

Good expository writing should be easy to read. After all, the purpose of exposition is to explain things to your readers, and you won’t be able to accomplish that if they have trouble understanding your writing.

That’s why ProWritingAid can help you write an expository essay. The grammar checker can help you ensure your sentences flow well, you’re not missing any necessary punctuation, and all your words are precise and clear.

Good luck, and happy writing!

Hannah is a speculative fiction writer who loves all things strange and surreal. She holds a BA from Yale University and lives in Colorado. When she’s not busy writing, you can find her painting watercolors, playing her ukulele, or hiking in the Rockies. Follow her work on hannahyang.com or on Twitter at @hannahxyang.

Get started with ProWritingAid

Drop us a line or let's stay in touch via :

Expository Essay

Definition of expository essay.

Expose means to uncover or lay something bare, or to discover something in a way that others know what it is. Expository is derived from exposition , which is a noun of ‘expose.’ An expository essay is a genre of writing which tends to explain, illustrate, clarify, or explicate something in a way that it becomes clear for readers. Therefore, it could be an investigation, evaluation, or even argumentation about an idea for clarification.

Types of Expository Essay

Expository essay is further divided into five major categories .

  • Descriptive Essay : A descriptive essay describes something, some place, some experience, or some situation through sensory information.
  • Process Essay : A process essay explains or shows a process of making or doing something.
  • Comparison Essay : A comparison essay makes comparison and contrasts between two things.
  • Cause/Effect Essay : A cause and effect essay finds out the cause of something and then its effects on something else.
  • Problem/Solution Essay : A problem/solution essay presents a problem and its solution for readers.

Difference Between an Expository Essay and an Argumentative Essay

As is clear, an expository essay is an exposition, explanation, investigation, or illustration for the purpose of clarification, therefore, its tone is often kept neutral. However, in an argumentative essay , a clear position about something is taken before the argument is presented. There is no issue of objectivity or neutrality.

Examples of Expository Essay in Literature

Example #1: how chinese mothers are superior (by amy chua).

“I’m using the term ‘Chinese mother’ loosely. I know some Korean, Indian, Jamaican, Irish and Ghanaian parents who qualify too. Conversely, I know some mothers of Chinese heritage, almost always born in the West, who are not Chinese mothers, by choice or otherwise. I’m also using the term ‘Western parents’ loosely. Western parents come in all varieties. All the same, even when Western parents think they’re being strict, they usually don’t come close to being Chinese mothers. For example, my Western friends who consider themselves strict make their children practice their instruments 30 minutes every day. An hour at most. For a Chinese mother, the first hour is the easy part. It’s hours two and three that get tough.”

This is an excerpt from a comparison/ contrast essay by Amy Chua, which explains how mothers are different in different cultures. This paragraph compares mothers from Chinese, Iranian, Jamaican, and Irish contexts .

Example #2: Learning to Read (by Malcolm X)

“It was because of my letters that I happened to stumble upon starting to acquire some kind of a homemade education. I became increasingly frustrated at not being able to express what I wanted to convey in letters that I wrote, especially those to Mr. Elijah Muhammad. In the street, I had been the most articulate hustler out there. I had commanded attention when I said something. But now , trying to write simple English, I not only wasn’t articulate, I wasn’t even functional. How would I sound writing in slang , the way I would say it, something such as, ‘Look, daddy , let me pull your coat about a cat, Elijah Muhammad — ‘ Many who today hear me somewhere in person, or on television, or those who read something I’ve said, will think I went to school far beyond the eighth grade. This impression is due entirely to my prison studies.”

This passage has been taken from a process essay. In this essay, Malcolm X tells the process of his learning. In this paragraph, he gives full detail how he learns letters.

Example #3: Summer Ritual (by Ray Bradbury)

“About seven o’clock you could hear the chairs scraping from the tables, someone experimenting with a yellow-toothed piano , if you stood outside the dining-room window and listened. Matches being struck, the first dishes bubbling in the suds and tinkling on the wall racks, somewhere, faintly, a phonograph playing. And then as the evening changed the hour, at house after house on the twilight streets, under the immense oaks and elms , on shady porches, people would begin to appear, like those figures who tell good or bad weather in rain -or-shine clocks. Uncle Bert, perhaps Grandfather, then Father, and some of the cousins; the men all coming out first into the syrupy evening, blowing smoke, leaving the wSWomen’s voices behind in the cooling-warm kitchen to set their universe aright. Then the first male voices under the porch brim, the feet up, the boys fringed on the worn steps or wooden rails where sometime during the evening something, a boy or a geranium pot, would fall off.”

This is an example of a passage from a descriptive essay. It has full description which tells us about sounds and colors; a type of sensory information.

Functions of an Expository Essay

The function of an expository essay is to clarify and expose things, ideas, persons, and places through description, process, comparison/contrast, or through problem solution. The objective of this type of essay is to make readers aware of things given in the essay. It proves full and detailed information in a way that readers become knowledgeable about the topic.

Related posts:

  • Elements of an Essay
  • Narrative Essay
  • Definition Essay
  • Descriptive Essay
  • Types of Essay
  • Analytical Essay
  • Argumentative Essay
  • Cause and Effect Essay
  • Critical Essay
  • Persuasive Essay
  • Process Essay
  • Explicatory Essay
  • An Essay on Man: Epistle I
  • Comparison and Contrast Essay

Post navigation

Purdue Online Writing Lab Purdue OWL® College of Liberal Arts

Expository Essays

OWL logo

Welcome to the Purdue OWL

This page is brought to you by the OWL at Purdue University. When printing this page, you must include the entire legal notice.

Copyright ©1995-2018 by The Writing Lab & The OWL at Purdue and Purdue University. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, reproduced, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed without permission. Use of this site constitutes acceptance of our terms and conditions of fair use.

The Modes of Discourse—Exposition, Description, Narration, Argumentation (EDNA)—are common paper assignments you may encounter in your writing classes. Although these genres have been criticized by some composition scholars, the Purdue OWL recognizes the wide spread use of these approaches and students’ need to understand and produce them.

What is an expository essay?

The expository essay is a genre of essay that requires the student to investigate an idea, evaluate evidence, expound on the idea, and set forth an argument concerning that idea in a clear and concise manner. This can be accomplished through comparison and contrast, definition, example, the analysis of cause and effect, etc.

Please note : This genre is commonly assigned as a tool for classroom evaluation and is often found in various exam formats.

The structure of the expository essay is held together by the following.

  • A clear, concise, and defined thesis statement that occurs in the first paragraph of the essay.

It is essential that this thesis statement be appropriately narrowed to follow the guidelines set forth in the assignment. If the student does not master this portion of the essay, it will be quite difficult to compose an effective or persuasive essay.

  • Clear and logical transitions between the introduction, body, and conclusion.

Transitions are the mortar that holds the foundation of the essay together. Without logical progression of thought, the reader is unable to follow the essay’s argument, and the structure will collapse.

  • Body paragraphs that include evidential support.

Each paragraph should be limited to the exposition of one general idea. This will allow for clarity and direction throughout the essay. What is more, such conciseness creates an ease of readability for one’s audience. It is important to note that each paragraph in the body of the essay must have some logical connection to the thesis statement in the opening paragraph.

  • Evidential support (whether factual, logical, statistical, or anecdotal).

Often times, students are required to write expository essays with little or no preparation; therefore, such essays do not typically allow for a great deal of statistical or factual evidence.

  • A bit of creativity!

Though creativity and artfulness are not always associated with essay writing, it is an art form nonetheless. Try not to get stuck on the formulaic nature of expository writing at the expense of writing something interesting. Remember, though you may not be crafting the next great novel, you are attempting to leave a lasting impression on the people evaluating your essay.

  • A conclusion that does not simply restate the thesis, but readdresses it in light of the evidence provided.

It is at this point of the essay that students will inevitably begin to struggle. This is the portion of the essay that will leave the most immediate impression on the mind of the reader. Therefore, it must be effective and logical. Do not introduce any new information into the conclusion; rather, synthesize and come to a conclusion concerning the information presented in the body of the essay.

A complete argument

Perhaps it is helpful to think of an essay in terms of a conversation or debate with a classmate. If I were to discuss the cause of the Great Depression and its current effect on those who lived through the tumultuous time, there would be a beginning, middle, and end to the conversation. In fact, if I were to end the exposition in the middle of my second point, questions would arise concerning the current effects on those who lived through the Depression. Therefore, the expository essay must be complete, and logically so, leaving no doubt as to its intent or argument.

The five-paragraph Essay

A common method for writing an expository essay is the five-paragraph approach. This is, however, by no means the only formula for writing such essays. If it sounds straightforward, that is because it is; in fact, the method consists of:

  • an introductory paragraph
  • three evidentiary body paragraphs
  • a conclusion

definition of expository essay writing

Quick and Easy Guide on How to Write an Expository Essay

definition of expository essay writing

Understanding What Is an Expository Essay

If you clicked on this article, then you must have recently been assigned an expository essay homework. There is also a possibility that you are here because you enjoy exploring different ideas and concepts rather than solely scratching the surface. Well, that explains why you decided to research more about expository essay writing. We won't leave you hanging, so let's delve right into the expository essay definition.

It's only reasonable to first give you a clear explanation of what is an expository essay and what this kind of paper tries to accomplish. Simply put, an expository essay presents information on a topic. It explains something about a situation, person, idea, or occurrence and communicates knowledge about it to the reader. It does not attempt to persuade the reader of a certain point of view or present a convincing case. An expository essay depends on facts rather than personal opinion since it aims to inform the reader about a subject.

Expository writing involves anything from sharing your day to outlining a job assignment. Therefore it wouldn't be unfair to say that it is the most popular type of writing in the world.

expository essay types

Expository Essay Topics

Speaking of the above, there must be plenty of options to write your expository paper on, right? You're correct! But one needs a properly worded title that would make great expository essay topics. That's why our research paper service covered some interesting areas below. You can browse myriads of choices and find one that is just right for your endeavor!

Expository Essay Topics About Education

  • School Dress Codes: A Physical And Mental Stress
  • The Idea Of Free Higher Education
  • The Issue With High School Massacres
  • The Importance of College Success
  • STEM versus STEAM educational approaches
  • How literate people differ from uneducated ones
  • The advantages of studying foreign languages.
  • What changes should be made to the educational system in your nation?
  • Does 'educated' have the same connotation as 'smart'?
  • Can someone receive a top-notch education at home?

Expository Essay Topics About Mental Health

  • Is it true that music impacts our mental and physical health?
  • Are acts of heroism and patriotic acts typical in terms of mental health?
  • Is there a need to increase mental health benefits under health insurance?
  • Comparatively speaking, does the American mental health system lag behind other nations?
  • Effects of mental health law
  • The connection between antisocial personality disorder and parenting methods
  • Learning-disabled kids can benefit greatly from school programs.
  • How social anxiety is influenced by digital communication
  • Patients with mental illness receiving physical care
  • Issues with mental health and grief therapy

Expository Essay Topics About Society

  • Advertisements seen via the lens of social science.
  • Prejudices towards African Americans.
  • The social implications of feminism.
  • Global refugee crisis.
  • Constructing a wall to separate Mexico and the US.
  • The psychology of implicit racial prejudice and discrimination
  • The effects of racism at work on the economy and mind.
  • Gender roles in society: shifting perspectives and effects on families.
  • Who was responsible for the cost of the War on Terror?
  • Is peace education receiving enough attention from society?

Expository Essay Topics About Politics

  • The connection between politics and religion
  • What are the pros and drawbacks of democracy?
  • How powerful are NGOs?
  • What are the UN's primary responsibilities?
  • What are the disadvantages of not having a state?
  • Has the US soured relations with its European allies?
  • What does the Human Development Index mean?
  • Celebrity Influence in political campaigning
  • What objectives does the anti-globalization movement seek to achieve?

How to Write an Expository Essay with an Expository Essay Outline

Outlining is one of the most vital steps for knowing how to write an expository essay. Many believe that creating an outline is a waste of time, but in reality, the more complete your expository essay plan is, the fewer hours you will have to devote to research and writing. An expository essay outline divides each paragraph of the essay into various components. By doing so, you may divide a more complex activity into more manageable components and better understand how various pieces of information will work together. Let's go through each section of the expository essay format prepared by our writer.

expository essay outline

I. Introduction

So, how to start expository essay on a strong note? Consider opening with a bold claim that is related to your topic. After that, go on to briefly describe your subject's significance. Finally, make a statement about your essay's core thesis or objective.

  • Background information
  • Thesis statement

II. Body Paragraphs

In your first body paragraph. introduce the first major point that backs up your primary statement. Then, support your claim with instances or facts, and then explain how these examples or evidence link to your thesis and support your core notion. Remember to include a transitional sentence that relates to the following paragraph.

If you follow a five paragraph essay format, then feel free to develop three body paragraphs with the similar order.

  • Topic sentence

III. Conclusion

In your concluding paragraph, try restating your thesis statement in a different way to successfully conclude your work. Then put your essay's essential ideas in a brief summary before concluding with a powerful remark that will stay with your readers.

  • Restate thesis
  • Closing sentence

Need some help with your homework? 

Get help from professional writers! Leave us a notice and we'll make your tasks asap.

How to Write an Expository Essay

Even though you now know a lot about the expository essay format, there are other things to keep in mind as well. In this section, we'll go over the specific steps you should take when figuring out how to write an expository essay.

Brainstorming Ideas

The absolute first thing you should do when given an expository essay assignment is to carefully go over the guidelines. Make sure you completely understand what is required of you. If it is for class, you may be limited to certain topics and word counts, there may be restrictions on the quality of sources you can use, etc. You might write an incredible essay but get a low grade because you missed out on some small restriction or guideline.

Once you know exactly what you are supposed to do, it's time to think about different concepts you would like to explain. Make sure you are aware of the different types of expository essays so that when you brainstorm topics you have a tentative idea of what type of expository essay would be best suited for that topic.

Think about what has been covered in class, what the teacher might expect, and what you find interesting to try and come up with a list of topics. Do a little bit of research on each topic to figure out whether you can easily find reputable sources and to gain a further understanding of the topic. After keeping all these things in mind, you should end up with an expository essay topic that is appropriate, engaging, and high-scoring.

Fill Up an Outline

Once you have zeroed in on a topic it's time to do research. One of the best ways to plan your writing is to use an expository essay outline to organize interesting information. While conducting research focus on the body paragraphs rather than on the introduction or conclusion. Think about three main ways you can explain the topic and put information that fits into those subtopics under the appropriate body paragraphs.

While conducting research and filling out an outline, think about potential thesis statements. Coming up with a thesis statement too early will restrict your research, so it is better to develop a thesis statement as you find out more and more information. That being said, by the end of the planning stage you should have a finalized thesis statement

Planning out your essay beforehand will give direction to your research, cut down on the amount of time you spend on the assignment, improve the overall flow of the final essay, and make the actual writing process much easier.

Write the First Draft

Now is the time to translate your outline into full sentences. It is often useful to leave the writing of the introduction till the end because after writing the body paragraphs you will have a better idea of what to say in an introduction, but make sure that you write down your thesis statement.

Use the information you have found to create a cohesive analysis of the topic in each body paragraph. Make sure that the information you present is on topic and connects to the other facts around it. Think about what the purpose of each body paragraph is and question whether the information you are presenting fits that purpose or not. Make sure to use transition words within the paragraph and use transition sentences between paragraphs to improve overall comprehensibility and flow.

Finalize Your Draft

Go over the first draft of the essay and focus on whether the different paragraphs make sense or not. Don't be afraid to reorganize sections or completely get rid of some pieces of information. As you write your draft, new ways of expressing the information can come to mind that will make the overall essay more powerful.

Make sure that you are not trying to make a persuasive argument and that you are using facts rather than opinions as evidence.

Go over each sentence to make sure that it is clear and that it fits the purpose of the paragraph it is in. Look at the information you have included and make sure that it is useful and enhances understanding of the topic. It is better to have less information than more if the information is distracting or does not add anything to the essay.

Try and read the paper as if it is the first time you are coming across the topic to see if it makes sense or not. Congratulations, you are just one step away from being able to submit an expository essay!

Editing and Proofreading

Go over the final draft of your essay and check for formatting errors, grammatical errors, spelling mistakes, etc and make sure that it complies with all the guidelines of the assignment. Finally, ask a friend or relative to go over the paper to do the last check. If you feel like you still need to make a lot of changes, don't be disheartened, spend the extra time to make the changes or reach out to expository essay writing service .

Expository Essay Examples

One of the best ways to learn how to write an expository essay is to look at an expository essay example. Looking at expository essay examples can give you a deeper understanding of what is expected as well as how to write an essay that flows well. Make sure that you use any examples you find as inspiration rather than a place to directly source information or text!

Expository Essay Example

The shift from traditional to current methods in treating diseases has improved the quality of many services, products, and processes. However, many regions worldwide are still applying traditional medicines (Stefanov et al., 2020). Therefore, conventional western medicine and alternative Eastern medicine are two recognized approaches to treating multiple diseases. Researchers have developed the foundational differences between these two approaches that have helped establish the pros and cons of each. Each approach has advantages and drawbacks. There have been debates on which approach is cheaper in terms of time and cost of treatment. Also, there is ongoing concern on which approach is safer than the other.
As of 2019, there were over 3.5 billion social media users globally, and this figure still increases by 9% each year. It is impossible to deny that social media has become an important part of many people’s lives. There are various positive effects linked with the platforms, including better connectivity. However, addiction to social media platforms, the increased comparisons between individuals, and the fear of missing out have increased depression and sadness. Social media addiction has become rampant, which has negatively influenced the lives of many individuals in society. Checking and scrolling through the different social media platforms has become increasingly popular over time, leading to excessive and compulsive use.

Now that you know whats an expository essay, you must agree that writing an expository essay is a great method to learn how to effectively communicate information while also pursuing an interest of yours. Therefore, there are many ways in which knowing how to convey ideas and explain things will help you both professionally and individually.

And if you ever feel like you need an extra push towards pursuing your dream academic life, consider us your go-to college life partner. We won't criticize you no matter how many times you need essay writing help . The EssayPro team is loyal, always reliable, and never judgmental! 

Want to Ace Your Expository Writing? 

Your wish is our command - order now and experience the excellence of our expert writers!

FAQs on Expository Essay Writing

If the information was not quite enough for you to create an outstanding paper, our college essay writer has yet to supply you with further details about expository essays. Below you'll find the most frequently asked questions on this matter, so you won't have to spend extra time and effort researching any unanswered questions.

What are the Different Types of Expository Essays?

What is the most important part of the expository essay structure, what is the main idea in expository writing, related articles.

Satire Essay

What is an Expository Essay and How to Write It

What is an expository essay and how to write it

You’ve been asked to write an expository essay on a particular topic. You know that an essay is generally a written composition that is usually limited in length and reflects the author’s perspective. However, the “expository” part is a little less clear. Keep reading, and you’ll get enough information to understand what an expository essay is and how to create an effective expository essay that meets the assignment requirements.

Table of Contents

What is an expository essay, what is the purpose of expository writing, when should you write an expository essay, 5 types of expository essays, how to structure an expository essay, how to write an expository essay, key takeaways, frequently asked questions about expository essays.

The expository essay is the appropriate type of essay to write if you need to inform your audience. If your intent is to critically compare, argue, or persuade, you will want to consider a different essay format. To explain it in more detail:

  • An expository essay is a type of academic writing that aims to present a balanced and objective analysis of a specific topic.
  • Expository essays often employ various techniques to enhance clarity and understanding. These techniques may include definition, comparison and contrast, cause and effect analysis, problem and solution exploration, or descriptive explanations. The writer should also ensure that the essay maintains a neutral and objective tone, avoiding personal biases or emotional language.
  • In an expository essay, the writer typically starts with an introduction that presents the topic and provides an overview of what will be discussed in the essay. The body paragraphs then delve into the details, presenting evidence, examples, and relevant information to support the main points. Each paragraph should focus on a specific aspect or subtopic, and the information should be organized logically and coherently.
  • Expository essays are commonly assigned in academic settings as they encourage critical thinking, research skills, and the ability to present information in a clear and concise manner.
  • The ability to write an expository essay is an essential skill for students and professionals. It promotes critical thinking, objectivity, and clear and concise communication.

definition of expository essay writing

The primary goal of expository writing is to explain or clarify a concept, process, or phenomenon using evidence, examples, and logical reasoning. Unlike persuasive or argumentative essays, the purpose of an expository essay is not to convince the reader of a particular viewpoint or opinion, but rather to provide clear and concise information.

The main objectives of expository writing are:

  • Informing: Expository writing aims to educate and provide readers with new or valuable information. It seeks to convey facts, details, concepts, or ideas about a topic in a straightforward and concise manner.
  • Explaining: Expository writing helps readers grasp complex subjects by breaking them down into simpler terms. It aims to clarify abstract concepts, processes, or phenomena, making them more accessible and understandable.
  • Instructing: Expository writing provides step-by-step instructions or guidelines on how to perform a task, accomplish a goal, or understand a process. It offers a clear sequence of actions or explanations to ensure readers can follow and replicate the instructions.
  • Presenting an analysis: Expository writing often involves analyzing and evaluating information, data, or evidence related to a particular subject. It may include comparing and contrasting different viewpoints, examining cause-and-effect relationships, or offering an objective evaluation of a situation.

Overall, the purpose of expository writing is to provide readers with accurate, unbiased, and well-organized information about a specific topic. It aims to enhance understanding, broaden knowledge, and facilitate learning by presenting information in a clear, coherent, and logical manner.

An expository essay is a good choice when the goal is to inform, explain, describe, or instruct. You may be assigned an expository essay as part of an in-class exam or coursework assignment. Here are some common situations in which writing an expository essay would be appropriate:

  • Academic Assignments: Expository essays are frequently assigned in educational settings. Teachers often use this type of essay to assess students’ understanding of a particular subject or to teach them how to research and present information effectively. They are common in subjects such as English, history, science, social studies, or any discipline that requires a clear explanation or analysis of a topic.
  • Instructional or How-to Writing: When you want to provide step-by-step instructions or guidance on how to perform a task, solve a problem, or achieve a specific outcome, an expository essay can be an appropriate format. This type of writing is commonly used in manuals, guidebooks, tutorials, or any instructional material.
  • Journalism or News Writing: Expository writing is prevalent in journalism, where the goal is to inform readers about current events, news stories, or investigative reports. Journalists strive to present objective information, provide background details, and explain complex issues clearly to their audience.
  • Professional or Technical Writing: In various professional fields, such as business, healthcare, engineering, or law, expository writing is utilized to convey information to colleagues, clients, or the general public. This includes writing reports, memos, manuals, research papers, or any form of communication that requires clear and factual presentation of information.

definition of expository essay writing

Expository essays can serve different purposes and present information in various ways. Here are five common types of expository essays:

  • Descriptive essay: This type of expository essay focuses on describing a person, place, object, event, or any subject in detail. It aims to create a vivid and sensory-rich portrayal of the topic, using language that appeals to the reader’s senses and emotions.
  • Process essay: Also known as a “how-to” essay, a process essay explains a sequence of steps or procedures to accomplish a task or achieve a particular outcome. It provides clear instructions and guidance, breaking down complex processes into manageable and easy-to-follow stages.
  • Compare-and-contrast essay: This type of expository essay explores the similarities and differences between two or more subjects. It involves examining various aspects, characteristics, or elements of the subjects and highlighting their similarities, differences, or both.
  • Cause-and-effect essay: A cause-and-effect essay explores the reasons (causes) behind an event, situation, or phenomenon, as well as the consequences (effects) that result from it. It aims to analyze and explain the relationship between causes and effects, demonstrating how one factor leads to another.
  • Problem-and-solution essay: In this type of expository essay, a specific problem or issue is identified and analyzed, followed by the presentation of potential solutions or strategies to address it. The essay outlines the problem, examines its causes and effects, and proposes practical solutions or recommendations.

It’s important to note that these are not the only types of expository essays, and there can be variations or combinations of these types. Additionally, within each type, the specific approach and structure can vary depending on the requirements of the assignment or the writer’s purpose.

Structuring an expository essay involves organizing your thoughts, ideas, and information in a clear and logical manner. Here is a commonly used structure for an expository essay:

  • Begin with an attention-grabbing hook to engage the reader.
  • Provide some background information on the topic to set the context.
  • Present a clear and concise thesis statement that states the main idea or purpose of the essay.
  • Start each paragraph with a clear topic sentence that introduces the main point of the paragraph.
  • Support your topic sentence with evidence, facts, examples, or expert opinions that relate to the main point.
  • Provide detailed explanations, analysis, or descriptions to clarify and develop your ideas.
  • Use transitional words and phrases to ensure smooth flow and coherence between paragraphs and ideas.
  • Each paragraph should focus on a specific aspect or subtopic related to the main idea.
  • Restate the thesis statement but rephrase it in a way that reinforces the main idea.
  • Summarize the main points discussed in the body paragraphs.
  • Avoid introducing new information or ideas in the conclusion.
  • End with a closing statement that leaves a lasting impression.

Writing an expository essay involves a systematic approach to presenting information in a clear and objective manner. Here is a step-by-step guide on how to write an expository essay:

  • Understand the purpose and requirements: Familiarize yourself with the purpose of the essay and any specific guidelines or requirements. Then, determine the topic or subject of your expository essay and gather relevant information and resources.
  • Conduct research and gather information: Conduct thorough research on your topic to gather factual information, examples, evidence, or expert opinions.
  • Plan and outline: Develop a clear and coherent outline that includes an introduction, body paragraphs, and conclusion. Decide on the main points or subtopics you will cover in each paragraph of your expository essay and arrange your ideas in a logical order that flows well.
  • Write the introduction: Be sure to include a clear and concise thesis statement that states the main idea or purpose of your expository essay.
  • Write the body paragraphs: Write one paragraph for each main idea, using transitions to ensure a smooth flow throughout.
  • Write the conclusion: Restate your thesis statement and summarize the evidence.
  • Revise and edit: Review your expository essay for clarity, coherence, and logical flow, and check for grammar, spelling, and punctuation errors. Remember to always maintain an objective tone and focus on presenting information rather than expressing personal opinions.

As you can see, effective expository essays vary widely based on their topic and ultimate purpose. However, they have several important characteristics in common. When you’re writing an expository essay, keep the following tips in mind:

  • Use clear, concise, and formal language, avoiding unnecessary jargon or complex terms.
  • The thesis statement needs to be clear, concise, and appropriately focused.
  • Provide sufficient evidence and examples to support your claims and make your writing more credible.
  • Consider the logical flow of your ideas and make sure they are presented in a coherent manner.
  • Use appropriate transitions to connect your sentences, paragraphs, and ideas.
  • Remember that the specific structure of your expository essay may vary depending on the requirements of your assignment or the complexity of your topic. Adapt the structure as needed while ensuring that your essay is organized and focused on conveying information effectively.

You should consider writing an expository essay when you need to explain, inform, or describe a particular topic or subject to your readers. Expository essays are usually assigned in academic settings, but they can also be used in other contexts, such as writing articles or blog posts. For example, an expository essay would be appropriate for purposes such as explaining the benefits of a healthy lifestyle, describing the process of a scientific experiment, or discussing the impact of technology on society.

Expository essay: The main purpose of an expository essay is to explain, describe, or inform the reader about a particular topic or subject. It should be written in a neutral manner, focusing on presenting facts, explaining concepts, and offering a clear understanding of the topic. Argumentative essay: The primary purpose of an argumentative essay is to present a well-structured argument or position on a specific issue. The writer takes a clear stance on a topic and provides strong arguments, counterarguments, and evidence to support their position. The language used may be more passionate and persuasive to convince the reader.

The length of an expository essay can vary depending on the specific requirements or guidelines provided by your instructor or the purpose of your writing. Expository essays can range from a few hundred words for shorter essays to several thousand words for more in-depth or research-based essays. The number of body paragraphs typically range from three to five, but it can vary based on the complexity of the topic and the amount of information you need to convey.

Paperpal is an AI writing assistant that help academics write better, faster with real-time suggestions for in-depth language and grammar correction. Trained on millions of research manuscripts enhanced by professional academic editors, Paperpal delivers human precision at machine speed.

Try it for free or upgrade to  Paperpal Prime , which unlocks unlimited access to premium features like academic translation, paraphrasing, contextual synonyms, consistency checks and more. It’s like always having a professional academic editor by your side! Go beyond limitations and experience the future of academic writing.  Get Paperpal Prime now at just US$19 a month!

Related Reads:

  • Scientific Writing Style Guides Explained
  • Research Manuscript Structure: Understanding Different Parts of a Manuscript
  • How to Choose and Use Keywords in Research Papers
  • Research Paper Writing: A 15-Point Academic Writing Checklist

Organization vs. Organisation: Is there a Difference?

Paperpal now supports research paper pdfs: a game-changer for latex users, you may also like, self-plagiarism in research: what it is and how..., 6 tips for post-doc researchers to take their..., presenting research data effectively through tables and figures, 8 most effective ways to increase motivation for..., how to make your thesis supervision work for..., publish or perish – understanding the importance of..., how to write a conclusion for research papers..., ethical research practices for research with human subjects, 5 reasons for rejection after peer review, what is peer review: importance and types of....

TCK Publishing

How to Write an Expository Essay: Types, Tips, and Topics

by Yen Cabag | 6 comments

expository blog post image

Writing essays is an important skill for students of all ages, from third graders to degree-seekers. The more adept you become at writing an essay, the better your chances of getting a higher grade or getting into the best schools.

But even in the workforce, having advanced research and reporting skills can be a significant advantage, since your supervisor may ask you to write up reports or present your research on a given topic.

Different kinds of essays require different kinds of content. To review, the most common types of essays include: 

  • Descriptive
  • Expository 
  • Argumentative 

In this article, we will be taking a close look at expository essays. (To learn about establishing background information in a story, check out our post on narrative exposition .)

What Is an Expository Essay? 

An expository essay is a type of essay wherein the writer investigates and expounds on an idea, evaluates evidence, and presents an argument about that idea in a clear and concise manner.

The word expository comes from exposition , the noun form of “expose,” which means to uncover something to let others know what it is. 

6 Types of Expository Essays

Expository essays can come in many different forms, depending on the goal of the writer: do you intend to explain something, or to show how one thing is better than another? Are you tasked with explaining how something works or how to make something? 

Here are the most common types of expository essays: 

Descriptive or Definition Essays

This type of expository essay is meant to describe a place, an experience, or a concept by appealing to the senses. The topic might be anything from a concrete object like an animal, city, or tree, or it can also be an abstract idea, such as relationships, love, or freedom. 

This type of essay can include a discussion of the literal definition of the topic, as well as what it connotes or the ideas that the word might bring to a person’s mind. 

Procedure or “How-To” Essays

This type of essay explains the process of doing or making something. An effective way of doing this is to include the steps that the reader can take. 

This can include the following topics: 

  • scientific processes, like a laboratory experiment
  • life skills, such as cooking, baking, repairing, or creating something
  • natural processes, like the metamorphosis of animals and insects
  • mechanical or technological processes, like how a piano or a computer works 

Comparison Essays

This essay compares and contrasts at least two different things, places, people, or ideas. This includes highlighting their similarities, as well as illustrating their differences. 

A good way of writing this type of essay is to pick themes around which to make your comparisons. For example, in comparing two cities for livability, you may want to compare populations, the quality of available schools, accessibility and convenience, or pollution and stress levels, among other factors. 

Cause-and-Effect Essays

This essay attempts to uncover the relationship between two objects, with the goal of determining whether one thing causes another.

You may need to provide supporting evidence to demonstrate the cause and effect relationship between the two ideas.

Problem/Solution Essays

This type of essay presents a problem and offers a possible solution. 

The best way to write this type of essay is by offering several potential solutions. Then, highlight the pros and cons of each.

Based on those pros and cons, present your personal recommendations for the reader, while still leaving room for the reader to decide for themselves. 

Alternatively, a problem/solution essay may also have only one solution, and in this case, the reader does not need to make a choice.  

How to Write an Expository Essay

You can write an expository essay using the following steps. 

1. Define your thesis statement. 

Because an expository essay generally goes in-depth on a given subject, it’s important that you specify your thesis statement from the get-go. State it in a clear and concise manner in the first paragraph of your essay. 

If you are given free rein to choose your topic, use this time to brainstorm possible ideas and choose one that you are genuinely interested in. This will make the process of researching and writing more engaging for you. 

Defining your thesis statement will also let you decide on the type of expository essay you will write. 

2. Research on your topic and take notes. 

Remember that your expository essay needs relevant facts and support to get your point across to your audience. Research as much as possible, collecting the relevant details in bullet points that you take while reading. 

3. Outline your essay. 

From your bullet point notes, organize your findings. Form a logical sequence of headings that you can later expand. 

A good outline will include the following: 

  • Introduction
  • Body paragraphs
  • Conclusion 

The body of your essay can be anywhere from 2-3 paragraphs to several paragraphs long. As you compose your outline, write down the different headings for your paragraphs so you can see exactly how each one transitions into the next. 

4. Write your first draft. 

Start with an introduction, where you include your thesis statement. Then, write a sentence that transitions logically into your body paragraphs.

Important: For the body of your essay, remember to include evidential support. 

Because an expository essay expounds on your thesis statement, it’s crucial that you include evidence to prove your point. Undeniable facts will back up whatever point you’re making in the essay, rather than a flimsy argument that can easily be dismantled. Your evidential support can come in different ways:

  • Factual: Actual facts and can help prove your point. Citing academic sources for those facts will help establish your credibility.
  • Logical: Arguments based on logic are formed when you deduce something from given information. 
  • Statistical: Statistical evidence supports your claim based on research conducted by others, or by a survey that you yourself perform. 
  • Anecdotal: A qualitative real-life story may also help to support your claim. 

Include as much evidence as you can to support your thesis statement. But remember to keep your writing clear and well-directed by focusing on one key idea per paragraph.

Finally, state your conclusion, and restate your thesis to remind your readers of your essay’s purpose.

5. Refine your work. 

After you write your first draft, carefully review and proofread your work . Check that your points make sense, and ask yourself whether the current layout is the best, most logical way to present your information.

If you find any paragraphs that do not connect well, either rewrite more effective transitional sentences or find a more suitable place for the paragraph. 

Writing Expository Essays 

Writing expository essays is a great practice in critical thinking. Not only will you learn important research skills, but you will also be able to gather evidence in support of your claims.

For more writing tips, check out our guides on how to write an essay and how to write a research paper to refine your expository and persuasive writing skills.

Did you find post essay helpful? Let us know in the comments below!

If you enjoyed this post, then you might also like:

  • How to Write an Essay: 7 Steps for Clear, Effective Writing
  • How to Write a Thesis Statement
  • How to Write a Hook: 10 Ways to Capture Your Readers’ Attention
  • How to Write a Research Paper: The Complete Guide for Students

Yen Cabag

Yen Cabag is the Blog Writer of TCK Publishing. She is also a homeschooling mom, family coach, and speaker for the Charlotte Mason method, an educational philosophy that places great emphasis on classic literature and the masterpieces in art and music. She has also written several books, both fiction and nonfiction. Her passion is to see the next generation of children become lovers of reading and learning in the midst of short attention spans.

Nicholas kunda

This is good to learn how to outline, therm, main point and Minor points. Thanks very much

Kaelyn Barron

You’re very welcome, Nicholas! We’re glad you found the post helpful :)

Morenikeji

Thanks it really help me

Anna H. Smith

A comprehensive and useful guide to writing an expository essay. I appreciate what you have posted on the blog. It’s very insightful and helpful.

Thanks Anna, we’re glad you found it helpful! :)

Jessica Eka

This is very helpful to write an excellent expository essay with your guide.Thankyou for your good work, your highly appreciated.

Book Deals

Learn More About

  • Fiction (223)
  • Nonfiction (69)
  • Blogging (46)
  • Book Promotion (28)
  • How to Get Reviews (9)
  • Audiobooks (17)
  • Book Design (11)
  • Ebook Publishing (13)
  • Hybrid Publishing (8)
  • Print Publishing (9)
  • Self Publishing (70)
  • Traditional Publishing (53)
  • How to Find an Editor (11)
  • Fitness (4)
  • Mindfulness and Meditation (7)
  • Miscellaneous (113)
  • New Releases (17)
  • Career Development (73)
  • Online Courses (46)
  • Productivity (45)
  • Personal Finance (21)
  • Podcast (179)
  • Poetry Awards Contest (2)
  • Publishing News (8)
  • Readers Choice Awards (5)
  • Reading Tips (145)
  • Software (17)
  • Technology (13)
  • Contests (4)
  • Grammar (50)
  • Word Choice (63)
  • Writing a Book (62)
  • Writing Fiction (195)
  • Writing Nonfiction (63)

expository essay

What is expository essay definition, usage, and literary examples, expository essay definition.

An  expository essay  [ik-SPOZ-ih-tohr-ee ess-ay] is an essay in which the writer researches a topic and uses evidence to inform their readers or clarify the topic. They can take many forms, including a how-to essay, an essay that defines something, or an essay that studies a problem and offers a solution.

The Five-Paragraph Model

Most expository essays follow the five-paragraph essay model:

  • Introduction:  The introduction contains the thesis statement or main point of the essay. Here, the writer describes the subject and gives necessary  context .
  • Body:  This section is usually three or more paragraphs and offers supporting evidence for the thesis.
  • Conclusion:  The conclusion revisits the thesis and summarizes the writer’s main points.

Types of Expository Essays

There are several types of expository essays that can be written.

  • Cause and Effect:  These essays question why something happened and the outcome of that occurrence. For example, an essay of this type might question why there’s a large homeless population in Seattle and what effects it has on the city and its citizens.
  • Classification:  These break a broad subject down into several, in-depth subcategories. A classification essay might study the various kinds of movies, define genres, and break the most common genres down by subgenre (for example, action thriller and action adventure as subgenres of the action genre).
  • Compare and Contrast:  These essays lay out the similarities and differences of at least two subjects. One such essay might compare two different novels by the same author. These essays can explore the pros and cons of different choices as well, like living in the city versus living in the country.
  • Definition:  As indicated, a definition essay describes or defines something. For example, it might define the internet and provide a detailed explanation of how it works.
  • How-To:  Also called a process essay, a how-to essay gives the reader steps for creating or doing something. For example, a process essay might walk its reader through setting a table, step by step.
  • Problem and Solution:  This type of essay explores a problem and, using evidential support, offers potential solutions. For example, a writer might consider the example of Seattle’s homeless population, cite a solution that other cities have used successfully, and propose that same solution for Seattle.

Other Forms of Expository Writing

In addition to the aforementioned, there are other uses for expository writing. Most commonly:

  • Newspaper articles
  • Encyclopedic entries
  • Manuals/assembly instructions

Expository vs. Argumentative Essays

Expository essays are like argumentative essays in that they both require research. Unlike argumentative essays, expository essays are meant to inform their audience rather than persuade it.

Argumentative essays are often controversial and contain the writer’s personal opinions, whereas expository essays give factual information and explore a topic from many  perspectives . Educational spheres often use expository essays to test writing ability, reading comprehension, and/or the writer’s understanding of a topic.

Examples of Expository Essays

1. Susan Sontag, “Notes on ‘Camp’”

This is a definition essay that explores the meaning and usage of the slang word  camp . When she wrote the essay in 1964, people used the word to describe a person or thing as exaggerated, effeminate, or theatrical. Sontag suggests that camp isn’t a solid concept but rather a sensibility, and she acknowledges its connection to contemporary gay culture. Her definition of camp is given in the following passage:

[Camp] is not a natural mode of sensibility, if there be any such. Indeed the essence of Camp is its love of the unnatural: of artifice and exaggeration. And Camp is esoteric–something of a private code, a badge of identity even, among small urban cliques.

2. David Foster Wallace, “Consider the Lobster”

Herein, Wallace reviews the 2003 Main Lobster Festival and questions the morality of boiling lobsters alive. He examines the problem from all facets, including whether a lobster feels pain, without directly asserting his opinion. After descriptions of the festival, physical properties of lobsters, and the common use of the crustaceans, Wallace poses the main question of the essay:

So then here is a question that’s all but unavoidable at the World’s Largest Lobster Cooker, and may arise in the kitchens across the U.S. Is it all right to boil a sentient creature alive just for our gustatory pleasure? A related set of concerns: Is the previous question irksomely PC or sentimental? What does “all right” even mean in this context? Is it all just a matter of individual choice?

3. Rebecca Solnit, “The Longest War”

From Solnit’s 2014 book of essays,  Men Explain Things to Me , “The Longest War” explores issues of male violence against women. Solnit uses both statistical and  anecdotal  evidence to inform her audience of the issue, which supports some of her argumentative essays that appear later in the book:

[T]hough a rape is reported only every 6.2 minutes in this country, the estimated total is perhaps five times as high. Which means that there may be very nearly a rape a minute in the United States. It all adds up to tens of millions of rape victims. A significant portion of the women you know are survivors.

Further Resources on Expository Essays

You can find more examples of expository essays on  LiteraryDevices.net .

Bibme.org  offers guidance for writing expository essays.

Essaytigers.com  provides step-by-step writing instructions and an additional argumentative essay and expository essay comparison.

Related Terms

  • Argumentative Essay
  • Expository Writing

definition of expository essay writing

definition of expository essay writing

The Plagiarism Checker Online For Your Academic Work

Start Plagiarism Check

Editing & Proofreading for Your Research Paper

Get it proofread now

Online Printing & Binding with Free Express Delivery

Configure binding now

  • Academic essay overview
  • The writing process
  • Structuring academic essays
  • Types of academic essays
  • Academic writing overview
  • Sentence structure
  • Academic writing process
  • Improving your academic writing
  • Titles and headings
  • APA style overview
  • APA citation & referencing
  • APA structure & sections
  • Citation & referencing
  • Structure and sections
  • APA examples overview
  • Commonly used citations
  • Other examples
  • British English vs. American English
  • Chicago style overview
  • Chicago citation & referencing
  • Chicago structure & sections
  • Chicago style examples
  • Citing sources overview
  • Citation format
  • Citation examples
  • College essay overview
  • Application
  • How to write a college essay
  • Types of college essays
  • Commonly confused words
  • Definitions
  • Dissertation overview
  • Dissertation structure & sections
  • Dissertation writing process
  • Graduate school overview
  • Application & admission
  • Study abroad
  • Master degree
  • Harvard referencing overview
  • Language rules overview
  • Grammatical rules & structures
  • Parts of speech
  • Punctuation
  • Methodology overview
  • Analyzing data
  • Experiments
  • Observations
  • Inductive vs. Deductive
  • Qualitative vs. Quantitative
  • Types of validity
  • Types of reliability
  • Sampling methods
  • Theories & Concepts
  • Types of research studies
  • Types of variables
  • MLA style overview
  • MLA examples
  • MLA citation & referencing
  • MLA structure & sections
  • Plagiarism overview
  • Plagiarism checker
  • Types of plagiarism
  • Printing production overview
  • Research bias overview
  • Types of research bias
  • Example sections
  • Types of research papers
  • Research process overview
  • Problem statement
  • Research proposal
  • Research topic
  • Statistics overview
  • Levels of measurment
  • Frequency distribution
  • Measures of central tendency
  • Measures of variability
  • Hypothesis testing
  • Parameters & test statistics
  • Types of distributions
  • Correlation
  • Effect size
  • Hypothesis testing assumptions
  • Types of ANOVAs
  • Types of chi-square
  • Statistical data
  • Statistical models
  • Spelling mistakes
  • Tips overview
  • Academic writing tips
  • Dissertation tips
  • Sources tips
  • Working with sources overview
  • Evaluating sources
  • Finding sources
  • Including sources
  • Types of sources

Your Step to Success

Plagiarism Check within 10min

Printing & Binding with 3D Live Preview

Expository Essay – Definition, Types & Structure

How do you like this article cancel reply.

Save my name, email, and website in this browser for the next time I comment.

Expository-Essay-Definition-1

An expository essay is a type of writing where the author presents facts and evaluates a concept about a place, an object, a person, or an experience. The writer is expected to present information regarding the concept unbiased and accurately while ensuring it is written in the third person and delivered in chronological sequence. Writing an expository essay is a common task for high school and college students, and knowing what it entails sets a successful and an unsuccessful student apart.

Inhaltsverzeichnis

  • 1 Expository Essay – In a Nutshell
  • 2 Definition: Expository essay
  • 3 The purpose of an expository essay
  • 4 Types of expository essays
  • 5 Structuring an expository essay
  • 6 How to write an expository essay

Expository Essay – In a Nutshell

An expository essay aims to provide a solution or explanation of a subject or issue at hand. Techniques in writing this type of essay can come in handy when a fact-based analysis is required in any field. Learn everything you need to know about writing an expository essay in this article:

  • There are 4 types of expository essays: Descriptive essay, process essay , compare and contrast essay , and cause and effect essay .
  • An expository essay includes 3 main sections : Introduction, body, and conclusion.
  • Learn tips and tricks to consider when writing an expository essay

Definition: Expository essay

A style of academic writing known as an expository essay tries to clarify, observe, and describe a thought, problem, or notion. It entails looking into a theory, assessing the supporting data, outlining the theory, and then developing an argument based on the research.

Expository essays follow a format similar to other types of academic essays , such as persuasive essays or argumentative essays . The primary distinction is that the expository essay necessitates more investigation and factual information to substantiate the claim. Common examples of expository essays include a process, or how-to essay that provides instructions on how to accomplish a task, assembly instructions, and newspaper articles.

Ireland

The purpose of an expository essay

An expository essay is written when the researcher intents to provide a solution or an explanation about a specific topic or issue. The primary purpose of such an essay is to explain or analyze a complex topic and is often used to explore complex or controversial issues. Mostly, these essays investigate an idea or subject, evaluate the evidence available, develop the idea, and provide an argument regarding that idea clearly and concisely.

Types of expository essays

There are four main types of expository essays:

Descriptive essay

A descriptive essay gives details on a particular person, place, thing, or experience. The author describes the topic with sensory information describing an individual, place, thing, or experience while giving in-depth information about the subject. Providing an intricate description of something or an event is the primary objective of such an essay.

Process essay

A process essay describes how to carry out a task or how something is supposed to take place. The author must ensure that the steps in the process are described in chronological order. A process essay’s primary goal is to give comprehensive directions on carrying out a task with minimal mistakes.

A beach description essay can discuss the sound of the waves lapping against the shore, the salty air, and the sensation of sand between the toes. Additionally, a person’s physical attributes, psychological traits, and interests could all be discussed in a descriptive essay about that individual.

A process essay on how to bake a cake might describe the processes involved, from combining the ingredients to placing the cake in the oven. Also, planting crops must follow a specific process lest they fail in their tracks.

Compare and contrast essay

A compare and contrast essay explains the differences and similarities between two or more individuals, things, places, or experiences. In a comparison essay, two objects are compared, and their similarities and differences are discussed. This essay’s primary goal is to make the reader understand the subjects under comparison.

Cause and effect

A cause and effect essay explains the reasons for something or the effects of something. This essay will discuss the causes of a problem or situation and its consequences. The main purpose of a cause-and-effect essay is to help the reader understand the reason behind a problem or situation.

In a compare and contrast essay about two nations, you might talk about how the two nations’ cultures, languages, and religions differ. Further, a compare and contrast essay on two books can discuss how the themes are similar but the character development differs.

An essay on obesity’s causes and effects can go over the factors contributing to the country’s rising obesity rates. Also, a cause and effect essay about the Vietnam War can go into the conflict’s origins and how it affected the Vietnamese people

Structuring an expository essay

The structure of this essay is similar to that of other essays, such as the five-paragraph essay.

Expository-essay-structure-of-an-essay

The introduction:

Introduces the essay’s core idea while providing critical background information. Start your introduction with a catchy sentence to draw the reader in, such as rhetorical questions, quotations, anecdotes, concessions, intriguing facts, or questions that will be addressed in your body section. The thesis statement for a narrative essay has a slightly different function than an expository essay because the former can introduce the plot’s events.

A three-paragraph body is the standard format for such essays. The topic is introduced in the first paragraph, followed by complementary information in the second paragraph, and then the bottom-line section as the third body paragraph.

The conclusion:

An expository essay also has a conclusion, acting as the summary of the essay’s main points.

How to write an expository essay

The most efficient method to begin an essay is simply, to begin writing. Get your ideas down on paper first without worrying about grammar or spelling. Check it for grammatical and spelling issues when you’ve finished writing your essay.

Make sure your thoughts are concise, and your essay flows naturally while editing. Read your writing aloud as a means to verify this. If you become lost or confused while reading your work, this is a good indicator that you have probably not adequately ordered your work.

What is an expository essay?

This type of essay explores a specific subject or issue in detail and is often used to analyze a complex or controversial topic.

What are the different types of expository essays?

The most common types of such essays include cause and effect essays, compare and contrast essays, process essays, and descriptive essays.

What is the purpose of an expository essay?

This type of essay is usually used when the aim is to analyze complex and controversial topics.

We use cookies on our website. Some of them are essential, while others help us to improve this website and your experience.

  • External Media

Individual Privacy Preferences

Cookie Details Privacy Policy Imprint

Here you will find an overview of all cookies used. You can give your consent to whole categories or display further information and select certain cookies.

Accept all Save

Essential cookies enable basic functions and are necessary for the proper function of the website.

Show Cookie Information Hide Cookie Information

Statistics cookies collect information anonymously. This information helps us to understand how our visitors use our website.

Content from video platforms and social media platforms is blocked by default. If External Media cookies are accepted, access to those contents no longer requires manual consent.

Privacy Policy Imprint

  • How it works

How to Write an Expository Essay

Published by Grace Graffin at August 17th, 2021 , Revised On July 26, 2023

Expository means “to describe or explain something” . It is related to the words ‘exposition’, ‘expound’, and ‘expose’ – to explain or reveal the meaning, to lay open, speak one’s mind.

Whenever there is a need to gather research and describe an idea, a  topic , or a process clearly and logically, it is done in the form of an expository  essay .

An expository essay requires the writer to take a balanced approach to the subject matter rather than justifying a particular point of view.

Expository essays are assigned to students to evaluate their subject knowledge and composition skills. When compared with  argumentative essays , they involve a lot less research.

Definition of Expository Essay

“The expository essay is the  type of essay  that involves an investigation of an idea or topic, appraises relevant supporting evidence material, and presents an argument in a clear and concise manner. ”

When to Write an Expository Essay

Your school or university could assign an expository essay to you as coursework or as part of an online exam.

However, the guidelines may or may not clearly state that your assignment is an expository essay. If that is the case, then look for keywords like ‘explain’, ‘describe’, ‘define’, etc., to be sure that what has been asked for is an expository essay.

You might even be asked to explain and emphasise a particular concept or term. Writing a simple definition will not be enough because you will be expected to explore the ideas in detail.

Writing an Expository Essay

An expository essay should not be based on your  personal  experiences and opinions. It rather takes an objective approach. You will be expected to explain the topic in a balanced way without any personal bias.

Make sure to avoid the first and second person (“I” and “You”) when writing an expository essay.

How to Structure an Expository Essay

The  structure  and format of your expository essay assignment will depend on your school’s guidelines and the topic you are investigating. However, it is always a good idea to develop an outline for your  essay  before starting to work.

The Five-Paragraph Essay Writing Approach

An expository essay will require you to take the five-paragraph essay approach: an  introductory paragraph , a main body paragraph , and a concluding paragraph . This is often referred to as the hamburger style of the essay because, like a hamburger, it contains five main parts: the introduction and conclusion being the bun that encapsulates everything.

Rationale and Thesis Statement

Start your essay  with a rationale and thesis, also known as the  thesis statement , so your readers know what you set out to achieve in your expository essay assignment. Ensure the thesis statement is narrow enough to follow the guidelines in the assignment brief. If the thesis statement is weak and too broad, you will struggle to produce a flawless expository essay.

The Framework

Construct a framework, so you know what elements will constitute the basis of your essay.

Expository Essay Introduction

Like other  essay types , an expository essay begins with an  introduction , including a hook, background to the topic, and a thesis statement. Once you have grabbed the readers’ interest, it will be easier to get them to read the remaining essay.

Frequently Asked Questions

Will i need the skill of expository writing after i finish my studies.

It depends on what you are studying for. While you might or might not write any more expository essays after your formal education has ended, the skill will be very useful in certain careers, such as business reports, journalism, and in scientific and technical writing.

How does an expository essay differ from an argumentative essay?

An argumentative essay is usually longer and requires more research. It starts with a claim about something that will need supporting evidence. And both sides of the argument need to be discussed. In an expository essay, there is no requirement to make an original argument and defend/support it.

What is the purpose of expository essays?

This style of essay is necessary when you have to showcase your knowledge on a given subject, or your ability to gather research on one and present your findings.

How long is an expository essay?

There is no fixed length but an expository essay could be part of an exam, in which case it might only be 1,000 words or less. They are usually shorter than argumentative essays . It can depend on the subject under discussion. You will likely be given instructions on the required word count.

Are there different types of expository essay?

There are six different types of expository essay, each with a different purpose.

The six types are:

Process essay – describing a task, a method, how to complete something Cause and effect essay – why something happened and its effects Problem-solution essay – provide analysis of problems and their solutions Compare and contrast essay – describe the similarities and differences between two subjects Definition essay – define the topic in detail and explain the how, what, and why Classification essay – separate the topic’s categories and define them in detail

When you are assigned your essay, you should be able to distinguish which of these approaches you are required to take.

You May Also Like

Identifying the causes and reasons why so many students struggle with essay writing can help students avoid these mistakes and write a perfect essay.

Learn what is the difference between essays and reports so you can work out why and you should prefer one form of writing over the other.

Narrative essays let the authors provide an account of their personal experience in the form of a story. In a narrative essay, you can let your creativity and ideas flow freely.

USEFUL LINKS

LEARNING RESOURCES

DMCA.com Protection Status

COMPANY DETAILS

Research-Prospect-Writing-Service

  • How It Works

Understanding What an Expository Essay Is

David Schaffer/Caiaimage/Getty Images

  • Writing Essays
  • Writing Research Papers
  • English Grammar
  • M.Ed., Education Administration, University of Georgia
  • B.A., History, Armstrong State University

If you search the Internet for a definition of an expository essay , you might become confused. Some books and websites define them as "how to" essays, while others give a long and confusing definition that seems to include every possible essay type out there.

Expository essays are simply essays that explain something with facts, as opposed to using opinion to inform the reader. Sample styles for expository essays may include:

  • Papers that described how to do something ( how to essay ).
  • Papers that analyze events, ideas, objects, or written works.
  • Papers that describe a process ( step by step essay) .
  • Papers that explain/describe a historical event ( descriptive essay ).

Expository essays are often written in response to a prompt that asks the writer to expose or explain a specific topic. Essay questions on tests are normally written to prompt an essay in this very style, and may look like the following:

  • Explain the events leading up to the Revolutionary War.
  • Explain how to balance a checkbook.
  • Describe the composition and function of a chicken's egg.
  • Explain the process of changing a tire.

An expository essay should have the same basic structure as any typical essay , with an introductory paragraph , body paragraphs , and a summary or conclusion. The length of your essay can vary, according to context.

The introductory paragraph will contain the thesis sentence , and the topic of the thesis should be grounded in fact.

A concluding essay will provide a summary of your main points and re-statement of your goal or thesis.

  • Expository Essay Genre With Suggested Prompts
  • What Is Expository Writing?
  • Topical Organization Essay
  • How to Write a Solid Thesis Statement
  • How to Help Your 4th Grader Write a Biography
  • The Ultimate Guide to the 5-Paragraph Essay
  • Structure of a Descriptive Essay
  • How to Write a Response Paper
  • How to Write a Great Process Essay
  • 61 General Expository Essay Topic Ideas to Practice Academic Writing
  • How To Write an Essay
  • How to Write a Good Thesis Statement
  • How to Write and Format an MBA Essay
  • Beef Up Critical Thinking and Writing Skills: Comparison Essays
  • 6 Steps to Writing the Perfect Personal Essay
  • How to Write Your Graduate School Admissions Essay

definition of expository essay writing

Expository Writing – Examples, Meaning And Types Of Expository Writing Style

Have you ever paid attention to the infinite scrolling feature on the internet? Whether it’s a Buzzfeed article or Twitter…

Expository Writing – Examples, Meaning And Types Of Expository Writing Style

Have you ever paid attention to the infinite scrolling feature on the internet? Whether it’s a Buzzfeed article or Twitter updates, you can’t seem to stop scrolling, hungry for more news. If you’ve read a ‘how to do something’ article or a condensed version of a long news report, then you’ve encountered various examples of expository writing.

While expository writing dominates the content world today, businesses have been relying on this writing style for ages. Every professional should understand the dos and don’ts of expository writing for effective business communication and workplace success.

What Is Expository Writing?

The different types of expository writing, the importance of expository writing in business.

Before we explore the basic tenets of expository writing, let’s look at what exposition means. At its simplest, it means explaining something. The purpose of the expository writing style is to enlighten or instruct. In other words, it means to present an idea or relevant discussion that helps explain or analyze information. Some of the most common examples of expository writing include scientific reports, academic essays and magazine articles.

An expository writer can’t assume that potential readers have prior knowledge or understanding about the information that they present. It’s best to avoid beating around the bush and highlight things as they are. The main features of expository writing style include:

It needs to be informative and highlight relevant details for better understanding

There should be clarity and an expository writer should know what they’re talking about

Well-written expository pieces continue to focus on the main topic and list events in an organized manner

The use of the first-person narrative should be avoided; instead, second-person instruction is much more effective

It should steer clear of personal thoughts and opinions and present an unbiased version of the information

Most of us have written some form of expository writing whether it was in school, college or office. Here are the various types of expository writing that’ll help you deliver ideas clearly:

Problem And Solution

As the name suggests, you identify the problem, provide details about it to explain it and suggest a solution(s) to tackle it. You have to justify the solution with sufficient data and propose ways to implement those solutions.

Cause And Effect

It conveys why something happened and how will it impact something. The outcomes suggested can be either true or hypothetical but the author should validate them.

Compare And Contrast

In this type of expository writing, the writer compares the similarities and contrasts the differences between the two subjects. This is only possible when subjects belong to the same category. For example, a comparative study between indoor and outdoor stadiums.

Definition And Classification

It provides a complete description of a subject, elaborating on the meaning, types and examples. It includes terms that have concrete meaning (e.g., objects) as well as abstract meanings (e.g., emotions).

How-To/Process

This type of writing is instructive and tells the reader about a task and how to do it. The reader may also include step-by-step instruction for easier understanding. Cook-books and user manuals are ideal examples of expository writing.

Take any typical day at work and reflect on the kinds of tasks you’re involved with. Written communication will be a commonly recurring activity. Business communication is one of the cornerstones of professional success. It’s important that you become familiar with the meaning of expository writing and establish yourself as an effective communicator. People are bound to take notice at work. Here are some expository writing tips that you should consider.

Work with the information that you’re most familiar with. For example, if you don’t know how to begin your email, write the body and conclusion before the introduction. It’s easier to map your purpose, identify your thoughts and then put them into writing.

Case-studies and projects can’t be considered authentic unless you back your report with ample data. In order to be persuasive and convince your clients or customers, you need to provide them with substantial evidence.

Always come straight to the point as readers won’t always have the required attention span. It’s best to present your data succinctly and directly because the topics are likely to be dry or boring. However, steer clear from jargon and other technical words and make your writing accessible.

Always pay attention to the format. An effective way to organize your thoughts is to prewrite and outline. It’ll help you narrow down the topics or details you want to discuss. It’s best to have a concluding paragraph that reiterates your position.

Most of all, make sure that you edit and proofread your draft. You don’t want to give a wrong impression, affecting your professional relationship and reputation. Pay attention to detail and never leave room for confusion.

Harappa Education’s Writing Proficiently course will help you structure your thoughts, polish your writing style and teach you to write clearly, concisely and compellingly. The Pyramid Principle will guide you in presenting key points of messages upfront with supporting evidence. Make your business communication effective and leave lasting impressions with your expository writing style.

Explore topics such as Significance of  Writing Skills , Different Types of  Writing Styles ,  Descriptive Writing ,  Process of Writing  &  How to Write an Email  from Harappa Diaries and polish your writing skills.

Thriversitybannersidenav

Expository Essay

Types Of Expository Writing

Caleb S.

Types of Expository Writing - Definition and Examples

11 min read

Published on: Aug 10, 2018

Last updated on: Nov 15, 2023

types of expository writing

People also read

Complete Guide to Expository Essays: Writing Help and Topics

Interesting Expository Essay Topics For Your Next Paper

How to Write an Expository Essay Outline Like a Pro

Free Expository Essay Examples For Students

Ultimate Guide to Writing an Expository Essay About a Person

Learn to Write an Expository Essay About Yourself

Learn the Basics of Crafting an Expository Essay about a Book

Learn to Write Expository Essay About Mental Health - Examples & Tips

How to Write an Expository Essay about Bullying: A Guide

Expository Essay About Dogs: Steps, Examples & Topics

A Guide to Writing an Expository Essay about Education

Expository Essay About Friendship: A Writing Guide

Discover How to Write Expository Essays About Music – A Step-by-Step Guide

Share this article

Writing an expository essay is quite more difficult than any other type of essay. Creating an impressive essay requires time, thorough research, skills, and knowledge. 

There are 10 main types of expository writing, each of which has a unique objective. They all are similar in nature but serve a different purpose. 

Read on to learn what are the different types of expository writing and what purpose they serve.

Order Essay

Tough Essay Due? Hire Tough Writers!

On This Page On This Page -->

Expository Writing Definition

Expository writing is a genre of writing that is used to explain, describe, inform, or clarify a particular expository essay topic to the reader. 

Unlike other forms of writing that may involve personal opinions or persuasion, the characteristics of expository writing include a focus on providing factual information in a clear and organized manner.

Expository essay writing is a very common form of writing; journals, newspaper articles, and essays usually demonstrate this type of writing.

While writing an expository essay, you need to explain everything in detail to make the idea clear for the reader. You can take help from  expository essay examples  to see what elements make a perfect expository essay.

What are the Types of Expository Writing?

There are 10 types of expository essay writing, including:

  • Compare and Contrast Essay 

Cause and Effect Essay

  • Problem and Solution Essay 

Process Essay

Definition essay.

  • Classification Essay 
  • Descriptive Writing
  • Exploratory Writing
  • Anecdotal Evidence
  • Sequential Writing

Let’s take a look at common types of expository writing one by one.

Compare and Contrast Essay

The  compare and contrast essay  is a type of essay in which the writer compares and contrasts two things. The writer compares the similarities between the two selected subjects and contrasts the differences in those subjects. The subjects should belong to the same category.

In the  cause and effect essay , the writer tries to find the cause of something; why did something happen? and what effects it might have. This type of essay has built around the reason that caused something to happen and its possible impacts.

There are two ways to structure a cause and effect essay:

  • Block structure:  All the causes are presented first, and then all of their effects.
  • Chain structure:  Each of the causes is followed by its effect straight away.

This essay could be based on assumptions or could be based on facts, but either way, they should be validated.

Problem and Solution Essay

In the  problem solution essay , the writer identifies a problem and then proposes its solution. The writer examines the particular subject from various aspects and perspectives prior to providing a solution. This essay is somewhat similar to the cause and effect essay.

The process essay refers to the process of something, i.e., how to make an apple pie. This type of writing includes a step-by-step process of making or doing something.

This is how you write a process essay; it provides the complete process of doing something. The goal is to provide the process in such a way that the reader can follow the sequence without any mistakes.

The  definition essay  is a type of expository essay that gives a complete description of the topic. It explains what the term or the topic of the essay exactly means. Some terms have concrete meanings like glass, book, etc. Whereas some have abstract meanings like love, respect, honor, etc.

The definition essay revolves around explaining the purpose, what, why, and how aspects of the topic of the essay. This essay could start with the dictionary definition and ultimately provide the extended definition.

Classification Essay

Classification essays are a type of expository writing that categorizes and organizes objects, people, ideas, or concepts into distinct groups based on shared characteristics, features, or criteria. The goal is to help readers better understand the relationships and differences between these categories. 

Descriptive Writing 

Descriptive writing is a type of expository writing that aims to paint a vivid picture of a person, place, object, event, or concept in the reader's mind. It uses sensory details and vivid language to create a sensory experience for the audience. 

Exploratory Writing 

Exploratory writing aims to investigate a topic or question from multiple angles, often without taking a definitive stance. It allows the writer and reader to explore various viewpoints and ideas. 

Anecdotal Evidence 

Anecdotal evidence refers to personal stories, individual accounts, or isolated examples that are used to support a claim or argument. While anecdotal evidence can be compelling and relatable, it is based on personal experiences and may not reflect broader trends or realities. 

Sequential Writing 

Sequential writing, also known as chronological writing, involves organising information or events in a clear, time-based order. This approach is often used when presenting a series of actions, or events in a logical sequence, making it easier for readers to understand a process.

Types of Expository Writing Examples

You can use these types of expository writing PDF examples as a guide when writing your own paper. These examples show you what types of information to include and how it all comes together in one cohesive piece.

Types of Expository Writing Middle School

Types of Expository Writing Structure

Expository Writing Examples Pdf

Paper Due? Why Suffer? That's our Job!

Tips for Expository Writing

The following are some easy types of expository writing strategies and tips. They will help you write an amazing essay.

  • Write your introduction in the most interesting way possible. Start with a hook, thesis statement, or exciting detail to make readers want more.
  • Make your essay clear and concise so that it doesn't confuse readers.
  • There are many ways to support your topic. You can use facts, data, and authentic sources.
  • It is important to consider the audience of your paper before you start writing.
  • Use authoritative sources to gather data for your paper.
  • To avoid any errors in the essay, proofread and edit it before submitting it.

As we've explored various types of expository writing, it's clear that each type serves a unique purpose. 

By choosing the right type, you can engage readers and make complex ideas accessible to a wide audience.

Still, if you need help with an expository essay or any other type of essay, you can hire a professional essay writer. 

My PerfectWords.com  is an online writing service that you can rely on for getting quality essay help. 

Our  expository essay writing service has a team of experts that can create a perfect essay in no time. They can cater to all of your expository essay writing needs. From choosing a topic to crafting an expository essay outline to essay writing, they do it all.

So request " write my essay for me online ' and get your essay in no time!

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the 4 characteristics of expository text.

The four main characteristics of expository text are;

  • Informative
  • Organization of the text

What are the five elements of expository writing?

The main five elements of expository writing are;

  • Topic sentence
  • Organization
  • Transitions
  • Evidence and examples 

How many types of expository writing are there?

There are generally eight common types of expository writing:

  • Process/How-To Writing
  • Cause and Effect Writing
  • Compare and Contrast Writing
  • Problem-Solution Writing
  • Definition Writing
  • Classification Writing

Caleb S. (Literature, Marketing)

Caleb S. has been providing writing services for over five years and has a Masters degree from Oxford University. He is an expert in his craft and takes great pride in helping students achieve their academic goals. Caleb is a dedicated professional who always puts his clients first.

Paper Due? Why Suffer? That’s our Job!

Get Help

Keep reading

types of expository writing

We value your privacy

We use cookies to improve your experience and give you personalized content. Do you agree to our cookie policy?

Website Data Collection

We use data collected by cookies and JavaScript libraries.

Are you sure you want to cancel?

Your preferences have not been saved.

AFS

AFS Programs

Expository Writing: Everything You Need to Know

Expository Writing: Everything You Need to Know

Welcome to our comprehensive guide to expository writing! Whether you’re a student exploring different writing styles or a creative mind who wants to learn how to express your ideas through words, this article is the place to be. We will explain what expository writing is all about, why it is important, and how you can master this form of nonfiction writing. So, sit back, relax, and get ready to dive deep into the world of expository writing!

First and foremost, let’s define expository writing. Unlike other types of writing, such as persuasive or descriptive writing, expository writing aims to inform and explain rather than persuade or evoke emotions. The objective is to provide readers with facts, details, and examples to help them understand a particular topic or concept. Essentially, it’s like being a honeybee exploring a vast mall of knowledge, buzzing from one piece of information to another.

Expository writing can take many forms, including essays, reports, articles, and even poems. The key is to always stay focused on the objective of informing and explaining. This means that you need to keep your writing clear, concise, and organized. Think of yourself as a tour guide, leading your readers through the intricate landmarks of your topic while providing them with all the necessary information they need.

#1 Bestselling Book for Essay Writers

101 Essays That Will Change The Way You Think

See Contents & Details

In order to achieve this, you’ll want to start by identifying your objective and the main ideas you want to convey. Consider the type of expository writing you’re doing – whether it’s a definition, classification, process, evaluation, or comparison/contrast. Each type has its own unique structure and purpose, so make sure to choose the one that best aligns with your objectives.

Once you’ve defined your objectives, it’s time to dive into the writing process. Start by gathering all the relevant information and examples that support your main ideas. This includes conducting research, analyzing data, and reading the latest news or scholarly articles on your topic. Remember, your goal is to present the reader with a comprehensive and well-rounded view of the subject matter.

Throughout your writing, always keep your reader in mind. Imagine you’re a student-learning the topic for the first time. What details would you want to know? How can you make the information engaging and relatable? Consider incorporating storytelling techniques and vivid descriptions to bring your writing to life.

Lastly, don’t forget to check your work for grammar, spelling, and punctuation errors. Even the most well-written piece can lose its impact if it’s riddled with mistakes. Take the time to revise and edit your work, ensuring that your writing is polished and professional.

So, whether you’re a student looking to improve your writing skills or a business professional looking to communicate your ideas effectively, mastering the art of expository writing is essential. By following the guidelines and tips outlined in this guide, you’ll be well on your way to becoming a proficient expository writer.

What is Expository Writing?

Unlike creative writing, which focuses on telling stories or expressing emotions, expository writing is more concerned with providing factual information and logical arguments. It is characterized by its clear and concise style, as well as its use of evidence and examples to support the writer’s ideas.

Expository writing can take many forms, including descriptive essays, how-to guides, process explanations, evaluations, and reviews. However, regardless of the specific format, the goal of expository writing is always to educate and engage the reader.

One example of expository writing is a movie review. In a movie review, the writer analyzes and evaluates the various components of a film, such as its plot, acting, cinematography, and special effects. The writer may also provide a brief summary of the plot to give the reader an idea of what the movie is about.

Another example is a book review. A book review, like a movie review, provides an evaluation of a piece of literature. The writer may discuss the book’s themes, characters, and writing style, as well as share their overall opinion of the work.

Expository writing is not limited to just academic or professional contexts. It can also be used in personal writing, such as a student’s essay or a poem. Even in these more creative forms, expository writing needs to convey meaning effectively and engage the reader.

The importance of expository writing cannot be understated, as it allows writers to explore and analyze topics in a structured and organized manner. It provides readers with reliable and objective information, helping them to understand complex concepts and make informed decisions. Whether it’s a BuzzFeed article on the best places to eat in a city or a business report providing a solution to a problem, expository writing plays a crucial role in our daily lives.

#2 Bestselling Book for Essay Writers

College Essay Essentials A Step-By-Step Guide to Writing a Successful College Admission Essay

Understanding the Purpose and Definition

Before we dive into the details, let’s begin with the definition: Creative writing is the process of telling a story or conveying information in a creative and engaging manner. It is a form of writing that goes beyond the typical bounds of regular, everyday writing and seeks to captivate readers through its style, imagination, and unique perspective.

Creative writing includes a wide range of topics and themes. It can be a short story, a novel, a piece of poetry, or even a screenplay for a movie. The writer, in this case, needs to use their imagination to bring the reader or viewer into a different world or experience. Whether it’s a fictional tale set in a distant galaxy or a nonfiction book that explores the life of a historical figure, creative writing knows no bounds.

One key aspect of creative writing is its open-ended nature. Unlike other forms of writing that may be constrained by facts or a specific purpose, creative writing allows the writer to explore various ideas and possibilities. It is a space where writers can let their imagination run wild and create stories that may not exist otherwise.

In contrast to creative writing, there is what we call expository writing. Expository writing is more focused on presenting facts, explaining concepts, or providing a solution to a problem. It aims to inform and clarify, rather than entertain or transport the reader. While creative writing can include elements of expository writing, such as character analysis or historical evaluation, its main goal is to engage the reader’s emotions and immerse them in the story or topic.

#3 Bestselling Book for Essay Writers

How To Write A 5-Paragraph Essay

Another important distinction within creative writing is the classification of its various components. There are professional authors who work in the business of writing, often with licensed characters or specific guidelines to follow. On the other hand, there are student-learning pieces or personal works where the writer is free to explore their own creativity without any constraints. Both types have their own unique style and audience, but the underlying purpose remains the same – to create an engaging and compelling piece of work.

So, if you’re an aspiring writer or someone who simply loves the art of storytelling, understanding the purpose and definition of creative writing is essential. It allows you to analyze and appreciate the similarities or differences between various forms of writing, and to know what your needs and goals are as a writer. Whether you’re working on a novel, a book of poetry, or a screenplay for the latest blockbuster, having a solid grasp of creative writing will help you bring your ideas to life and captivate your readers or viewers.

Types of Expository Writing

1. descriptive essays.

A descriptive essay aims to paint a vivid picture by providing detailed descriptions and sensory impressions of a person, place, or thing. It allows the reader to visualize and experience the subject through words.

Example: In “The Mall,” the author uses descriptive language to transport the reader to a bustling shopping center, complete with sights, sounds, and smells.

2. Process Analysis

A process analysis essay explains how to do something or how something works. It provides a step-by-step guide to help the reader understand a specific process or procedure.

Example: “How to Make a Honeybee Costume” offers a detailed explanation of the materials, tools, and steps required to create a homemade costume.

3. Cause and Effect Essays

A cause and effect essay explores the relationship between events or phenomena, showing how one thing leads to another. It examines the reasons behind a specific outcome or the effects of a particular event.

Example: “The Impact of Social Media on Teenagers” analyzes the potential effects of excessive social media use on adolescent mental health and relationships.

4. Compare and Contrast Essays

A compare and contrast essay examines the similarities and differences between two or more subjects. It highlights the characteristics and attributes of each subject and explores their relationship.

Example: “Contrasting Poetic Styles: Robert Frost and Maya Angelou” analyzes the differences in style, themes, and imagery between the two famous poets.

5. Persuasive Essays

A persuasive essay aims to convince the reader to adopt a particular viewpoint or take a specific action. It presents arguments and supporting evidence to establish credibility and persuade the audience.

Example: “The Importance of Recycling” presents facts and statistics to persuade readers about the importance of recycling for environmental conservation.

These are just a few examples of the many types of expository writing. Each type serves a unique purpose, whether it is providing information, explaining a process, or persuading the audience. By understanding the different forms, authors can effectively convey their messages and engage readers in a meaningful way.

Explaining, Describing, and Informing

One of the most common styles of expository writing is classification. This involves organizing information into categories based on similarities and differences. For example, an essay on different types of landmarks might classify them into architectural, historical, and natural landmarks. By doing so, the writer can explain the unique characteristics of each type and provide a comprehensive overview.

Another style often used in expository writing is description. Descriptive writing seeks to paint a vivid picture or provide a detailed account of a person, place, object, or event. For instance, in an essay about the Titanic, the writer might describe the luxurious interior, the grand staircase, and the breathtaking exterior of the ship. These descriptions help readers visualize the subject and engage with the writing.

Informative writing aims to provide factual information in a clear and concise manner. It includes presenting details, explaining concepts, and offering explanations. For example, in an essay about the causes and effects of pollution, the writer might inform readers about the different sources of pollution and the impact it has on the environment. Informative writing is important as it can help readers gain knowledge and expand their understanding of a topic.

Supplementary Components

While expository writing can take many forms, there are a few components that are often included to enhance understanding and engagement. These components can be used to provide further information or to support the main ideas presented in the text.

One common component is the use of examples or anecdotes. Including specific examples can help illustrate a point and make it easier for readers to relate to the information being presented. For instance, if a writer is explaining the concept of cause and effect, they might include a real-life example to help readers better understand the relationship between two events.

Another important component is evaluation. This involves analyzing and assessing the information or arguments presented in the text. By evaluating the evidence and considering different perspectives, readers can gain a deeper understanding of the topic and make informed judgments.

Writing for Different Objectives

Depending on the objectives of the writing task, expository writing can take on different forms. One common objective is to persuade or convince readers of a certain viewpoint. Persuasive writing often includes arguments, evidence, and appeals to emotion to sway readers’ opinions.

Another objective is to analyze or critique a subject. Analytical writing involves breaking down the subject into its components and examining them in detail. This type of writing is often used in academic settings where students are required to critically analyze literature, films, or any other form of media.

Finally, expository writing can also aim to entertain or engage readers. Narrative writing, for example, involves telling stories or describing events in a way that captures the reader’s interest. This type of writing can be found in novels, short stories, or even in articles on websites like BuzzFeed where the goal is to captivate the audience and provide a fun reading experience.

Key Elements of Expository Writing

1. Clear and concise writing: Expository writing needs to be clear and concise, avoiding unnecessary details or flowery language. It should present information in a straightforward manner, without ambiguity or confusion.

3. Strong thesis statement: A strong thesis statement is essential in expository writing. It clearly presents the main idea or argument of the essay and provides a roadmap for the reader to follow.

4. Use of evidence and examples: To support the main ideas or arguments, expository writing often utilizes evidence and examples. These can be in the form of facts, statistics, anecdotes, or expert opinions, providing credibility and supporting the writer’s claims.

5. Analysis and interpretation: Expository writing goes beyond presenting facts; it also requires analyzing and interpreting them. Writers should explore the meaning and significance of the information presented, offering insights and explanations to the reader.

6. Objective tone: Expository writing should maintain an objective tone, staying neutral and unbiased. It should avoid personal opinions or emotional language, focusing on presenting information in a balanced and logical way.

7. Clarity and coherence: Expository writing needs to be clear and coherent, allowing the reader to easily follow the writer’s train of thought. Transitions and logical connections between ideas should be used to ensure a smooth flow of information.

8. Use of appropriate language: Expository writing should use language appropriate for the intended audience. It should avoid jargon or technical terms that may be unfamiliar to the reader, while also ensuring clarity and precision in the explanations provided.

In summary, expository writing is a type of nonfiction writing that presents factual information in a logical and structured manner. It requires clear and concise writing, organization and structure, the use of evidence and examples, analysis and interpretation of information, an objective tone, clarity and coherence, and the use of appropriate language. By understanding and implementing these key elements, students can enhance their expository writing skills and effectively communicate their ideas.

Clear Organization, Concise Language, and Supporting Evidence

One of the most important aspects of expository writing is clear organization. Without a well-organized structure, readers can easily get lost or confused. To avoid this, it is important to use logical transitions and headings to guide readers through your piece. This can be done through the use of bullet points, numbered lists, or subheadings. By organizing your information in a clear and systematic way, you make it easier for readers to follow along and comprehend the content.

In addition to clear organization, concise language is another key element of expository writing. Unlike descriptive or narrative pieces, expository writing requires a more straightforward and direct approach. It is important to get to the point and provide information without unnecessary embellishments or extra words. Using concise language helps to keep your writing concise, engaging, and easy to read.

To illustrate the importance of clear organization, concise language, and supporting evidence, let’s consider an example. Imagine you are writing an expository essay about Africanized honeybees. In your essay, you would start by providing a clear definition of what Africanized honeybees are and how they differ from regular honeybees. Then, you would organize the information in a logical manner, exploring the characteristics, behavior, and potential impact of these bees.

As you delve into each aspect, you would use concise language to present the information in a straightforward and accessible manner. For instance, instead of using complex terminology about genetics, you would explain the concept in simpler terms that a general audience can understand. This concise language helps to engage readers and keeps them interested in your topic.

Finally, you would support your essay with evidence such as scientific studies, reports, or real-life examples of Africanized honeybee incidents. This supporting evidence provides credibility to your claims and helps readers understand the potential danger of these bees.

The Process of Writing an Expository Essay

When starting the process, it is essential to know everything about the topic you will be writing about. This includes gathering relevant facts, statistics, and examples to support your points. Researching extensively will help you effectively present the information to your readers.

Next, you need to organize your thoughts and create an outline for your essay. This outline will act as a roadmap, helping you structure your ideas and maintain coherence throughout your piece. You can use a traditional outline format, such as the alphanumeric or decimal system, to organize your main points and supporting details.

In the body paragraphs, you will explain and discuss the main points of your essay. Each paragraph should focus on a single idea or aspect related to the topic. You can use different types of expository writing, such as compare and contrast, cause and effect, or problem and solution, to explore the subject from various angles. Make sure to provide supporting evidence and examples to strengthen your arguments.

When writing an expository essay, it is important to maintain a formal and objective style. Avoid using personal pronouns or expressing personal opinions unless specifically required. You should present the information in a clear and concise manner, using proper grammar and sentence structure.

After completing the first draft of your essay, remember to review the entire piece for any grammatical or spelling errors. Edit and revise as necessary to ensure clarity and coherence in your writing. Consider seeking feedback from others, such as friends, teachers, or writing tutors, to get different perspectives and improve your essay.

Writing an expository essay can be a fun and engaging process. It allows you to explore different topics, analyze various perspectives, and present factual information to your readers. By effectively telling your story through facts and evidence, you can create a meaningful and informative piece of writing.

What is expository writing?

Expository writing is a type of writing that aims to explain, inform, or describe a topic in a clear, concise, and logical manner.

Why is expository writing important in business?

Expository writing is important in business because it allows clear communication of ideas, facilitates understanding among employees and stakeholders, and contributes to the overall success of the organization.

What are the key elements of expository writing?

The key elements of expository writing include a clear thesis statement, logical organization, credible evidence, and a conclusion that summarizes the main points of the text.

How does expository writing differ from other types of writing?

Unlike persuasive or narrative writing, expository writing focuses on presenting facts and information in an objective manner without expressing personal opinions or including fictional elements.

How can I improve my expository writing skills?

To improve your expository writing skills, you can practice outlining your ideas before writing, use clear and concise language, provide evidence to support your claims, and revise and edit your work for clarity and coherence.

Alex Koliada, PhD

By Alex Koliada, PhD

Alex Koliada, PhD, is a well-known doctor. He is famous for studying aging, genetics, and other medical conditions. He works at the Institute of Food Biotechnology and Genomics. His scientific research has been published in the most reputable international magazines. Alex holds a BA in English and Comparative Literature from the University of Southern California , and a TEFL certification from The Boston Language Institute.

How to Write an Expository Essay?

27 April, 2020

12 minutes read

Author:  Tomas White

Mastering the art of writing a good expository essay is the backbone of writing A grade essays. This extensive guide written by the Handmade writing team will help define exactly what an expository paper is in fact. This is done by examining it in relation to other genres of essays as well as giving you a broad view on a range of different essays that fall into this category.

Expository Essay

What is an expository essay?

The definition of an expository essay is to expose an idea by explaining the evidence and facts surrounding the topic. Its purpose is to explain or clarify information on a subject. It is important to present the topic in an impartial and non-biased fashion without forming a conclusion.

All types of academic papers such as argumentative and persuasive essays include expository writing in some shape or form. Due to this, it can be hard to define where the expository paper ends, and the other papers begin. To get a clear understanding of how expository writing differs, it is best to compare it to different essay genres.

Is an argumentative essay an expository essay?

An expository essay is objective, neutral and focuses on explaining all sides of a situation, whereas an argumentative essay is about arguing for and supporting one side of the debate by contrasting it with different viewpoints. Below is an illustration of the conventions and structures of both essay genres.

is an argumentative essay an expository essay

How are a persuasive essay and an expository essay different?

A persuasive essay and an argumentative essay are extremely similar in format and will follow most of the rules outlined for argumentative essays. A persuasive writing is used to persuade. Expository writing is used to inform.

How to write an expository essay

The main points of what an expository essay should contain have been summarized in the graphic above. Good expository writing needs you to know how to present and write the information in the correct format. This guide will take you through the things you need to do to write a fantastic and detailed paper step by step. The first step is understanding what type of expository essay you are going to write.

What are the main types of expository essays?

Good writers understand the purpose of their essays. Identify the type of paper that you need to write and focus on answering the question in a suitable format. Here are five main types of expository papers:

Main types of expository essays

A Descriptive Essay

The purpose of a description is to describe something in detail. It could be a person you know, a place that you have visited or even describing the steps in a natural process such as photosynthesis. You should explain the subject matter in detail but not necessarily include any conclusion or analysis.

A Process Essay

The purpose of a process essay is to recount the steps taken. Good examples are scientific reports of experiments or a guide on how to create something. The essay explains the process that was taken and the results that were gained without judgment.

A Comparison Essay (Compare and Contrast Essay)

A comparison essay’s purpose is to compare and contrast two subjects. Examples of this can be how a theme is present in two books, two perspectives on social theory or even a flowers appearance. The essay should just list the differences without any kind of analysis or argument attached.

A Cause and Effect Essay

A cause and effect essay identify the reason why a phenomenon occurs and what happens as a consequence. These essays lend themselves to social research in topics like “ What causes dyslexia and what effects will it have on learning? ” Or history topics that discuss the cause of policies and their effects on society. An expository essay should detail the causes and effects without any further analysis.

A Problem and Solution Essay

A problem and solution essay will identify problems in a system and offer solutions that could fix or lessen the burden of those problems. As an expository paper there shouldn’t be an argument for one solution but an outline of all possible solutions.

Read the question you have been set or the criteria of your assignment and measure it against these expository essay formats to choose the best question for you. For more in-depth advice on how to write the styles of essays detailed above please follow the embedded links!

How to choose a title for an expository essay?

When you are given free reign, it can be hard to decide what to write an essay on. The easiest method of how to start an expository writing is to decide on the topic and title. A simple way of coming up with a basic title for an essay is to insert its type into the title.

  • A description of Stephen King/Harlem/Photosynthesis
  • The process of baking a cake/testing Boyle’s law/of camping.
  • A comparison of Byron’s poetry / international social policy / political stances on taxation.
  • The cause and/or effects of potato blight/obesity/voter apathy
  • The problems and/or solutions to gun regulation / gendered language/stigmatization of mental issues.

Creating a basic title will give your essay direction, and a subject to focus on. It can act as a primary thesis statement as research and can be narrowed and to a more meaningful title later. News channels&papers and websites are sources of current and ongoing issues to discuss.

Formulating a clear title will help clarify the purpose of your paper by giving the reader your topic and the context in which you are reporting on it. When choosing a title and essay type always consider whether they are appropriate to the guidelines and subject matter. The most important thing is to choose a subject you enjoy.

where to look for topic for an expository essay

Feel free to buy essay online with our top-level essay writers .

Expository essay topics for high school and college

Being given the freedom to choose an essay topic in high-school or college is a hard assignment. Here are some general expository essay topics for high school and college students to help you brainstorm and decide on a subject.

Keep in mind that learning to write good essays has benefits that go beyond your academic life. Good writing skills are essential for your future career as well. As many as 80 percent of corporations with employment growth potential evaluate the writing skills of their applicants during the hiring process.

Here are some colorful examples of topic titles that we suggest looking into.

Process titles

  • The perfect recipe for an amazing summer vacation
  • How to test the resistance of an electrical current

Comparison titles

  • A comparison of positivism and communist perspectives on social education
  • Compare and contrast the use of technology in Harry Potter and Frankenstein

Cause and effect titles

  • Explain how the Treaty of Versailles contributed to Hitler’s rise to power.
  • What are the causes and consequences of climate change?

Problems and solution titles 

  • What problems arise from the depiction of violence on in the media?
  • What can you do to help someone with a hearing impairment adapt to mainstream education?
  • How is the representation of women a problem in video-gaming and what can game developers do to stop it?

Expository essay Outline

The structure of this essay type usually consists of five paragraphs. These include the introduction, three supporting paragraphs that comprise the body of your essay, and a conclusion that sums up your points.

Start your introduction with a strong sentence that pulls the readers in. The introduction of your expository essay is the first thing that readers will see, so it directly influences how they receive your essay. You should take your time to make it effective. Keep in mind that the purpose of your introduction is to hook your readers and provide a guideline for your topic and main argument, known as the thesis statement. This hook should tell your readers something they didn’t know before, for example, an interesting fact, a surprising statistic, or a quote from a well-known person.

Related Posts: How to write an Essay outline | Essay format guide  | How to write an Essay introduction  

Next, the best expository writing format is to choose three items about the topic that you will discuss in the body of your essay. These are the points that you introduced in your introduction and should discuss in more detail in the body.

No matter the style or the type of essay  – choose three points about the subject that you can elaborate on and explain in detail.

Finally, your conclusion should restate your thesis statement and give details about the end goal. You can also make a prediction based on the discussion of your essay and provide closure for your readers.

What should I include in the introduction?

The introduction of an expository essay should  have a thesis statement . The thesis statement here is simply to introduce the subject you are explaining and in what context.

How should I write the body paragraphs?

Each paragraph of the body paragraph should discuss a single idea on the subject. The first sentence of each paragraph should introduce the topic that you will discuss. The following sentence should elaborate and describe the subject in detail. Use facts, evidence, and quotations to support the statement and elaborate. The final sentence should be conclusive to signal the topic has ended. Writing in this formula will sign-post your work and make it easier to read.

All information should be objective and written in the third person.

An expository writing purpose is to describe subjects in detail to explain and clarify. As such the focus should be on simple, clear sentences with concentrate messages. It is important to stay focused on the topic at hand and not go off on tangents.

How to write a conclusion?

The conclusion of an expository paper should recap all the points made previously and avoid coming to a conclusion about which side of the argument is right or adding new ideas to the essay. You can signal the end of the paper with a final general point, for example:  “Only by evaluating all aspects of homelessness we can come to an understanding of what causes it and how to implement better solutions.”

Expository essay example

Do’s and don’ts of expository essays.

A life lesson in Romeo and Juliet taught by death

A life lesson in Romeo and Juliet taught by death

Due to human nature, we draw conclusions only when life gives us a lesson since the experience of others is not so effective and powerful. Therefore, when analyzing and sorting out common problems we face, we may trace a parallel with well-known book characters or real historical figures. Moreover, we often compare our situations with […]

Ethical Research Paper Topics

Ethical Research Paper Topics

Writing a research paper on ethics is not an easy task, especially if you do not possess excellent writing skills and do not like to contemplate controversial questions. But an ethics course is obligatory in all higher education institutions, and students have to look for a way out and be creative. When you find an […]

Art Research Paper Topics

Art Research Paper Topics

Students obtaining degrees in fine art and art & design programs most commonly need to write a paper on art topics. However, this subject is becoming more popular in educational institutions for expanding students’ horizons. Thus, both groups of receivers of education: those who are into arts and those who only get acquainted with art […]

IMAGES

  1. Expository Essay: Examples and Tips of a Proper Writing That Will Be

    definition of expository essay writing

  2. How To Write An Expository Essay in 6 Steps

    definition of expository essay writing

  3. How To Write An Expository Essay (7 Best Tips)

    definition of expository essay writing

  4. Expository Writing: Everything You Need to Know

    definition of expository essay writing

  5. How to Write an Expository Essay: Examples and 25 Topic Ideas

    definition of expository essay writing

  6. What Is an Expository Essay? Examples and Guide

    definition of expository essay writing

VIDEO

  1. Essay 18: THE EXPOSITORY ESSAY

  2. expository essay| Nzee Academy #shorts #youtube

  3. Expository Essay Writing

  4. Writing an Expository Essay

  5. How to write expository writing essay. briefly explain in urdu / Hindi. #education #pakistan #india

  6. GEEC 1052 ‘What makes a good teacher?’ (Expository Essay Writing)

COMMENTS

  1. Expository Writing: Definition and Examples

    Expository writing, as its name implies, is writing that exposes facts. In other words, it's writing that explains and educates its readers, rather than entertaining or attempting to persuade them. When you read a scholarly article, a textbook page, a news report, or an instructional guide, you're reading expository writing. Strike the right tone

  2. Expository Essay Guide With Definition & Examples

    An expository essay is an essay that communicates factual information. Broadly, this type of writing is known as expository writing. Expository essays rely on different structures to communicate their positions, like compare and contrast, process essays, and analyzing cause and effect. Expository writing is one of the four main types of writing.

  3. How to Write an Expository Essay

    "Expository" means "intended to explain or describe something." An expository essay provides a clear, focused explanation of a particular topic, process, or set of ideas. It doesn't set out to prove a point, just to give a balanced view of its subject matter.

  4. Expository Writing: Definition and Examples

    The short answer is that expository writing refers to any writing designed primarily to explain or instruct. Read on to learn the definition of expository writing as well as some examples of what this type of writing can look like. What Is Expository Writing?

  5. Expository Writing

    Expository writing is a type of writing that is used to explain, describe, and give information and uses evidence, details, and facts to support the topic. An example of expository...

  6. Expository Essay

    An expository essay is a genre of writing which tends to explain, illustrate, clarify, or explicate something in a way that it becomes clear for readers. Therefore, it could be an investigation, evaluation, or even argumentation about an idea for clarification. Types of Expository Essay

  7. Expository Essays

    The expository essay is a genre of essay that requires the student to investigate an idea, evaluate evidence, expound on the idea, and set forth an argument concerning that idea in a clear and concise manner. This can be accomplished through comparison and contrast, definition, example, the analysis of cause and effect, etc.

  8. What Is Expository Writing?

    In composition studies, expository writing (also called exposition) is one of the four traditional modes of discourse. It may include elements of narration , description, and argumentation.

  9. How to Write an Expository Essay: Topics, Outline, Examples

    In your first body paragraph. introduce the first major point that backs up your primary statement. Then, support your claim with instances or facts, and then explain how these examples or evidence link to your thesis and support your core notion. Remember to include a transitional sentence that relates to the following paragraph.

  10. What Is an Expository Essay and How to Write It

    An expository essay is a type of academic writing that aims to present a balanced and objective analysis of a specific topic. Expository essays often employ various techniques to enhance clarity and understanding.

  11. How to Write an Expository Essay: Types, Tips, and Topics

    An expository essay is a type of essay wherein the writer investigates and expounds on an idea, evaluates evidence, and presents an argument about that idea in a clear and concise manner. The word expository comes from exposition, the noun form of "expose," which means to uncover something to let others know what it is. 6 Types of Expository Essays

  12. Expository Essay Definition and Structure (Outline)

    An expository essay is a properly structured written piece that revolves around verified information and explains or describes something to the reader. It requires the writer to distance their own views from the topic and provide only verified and factual information in an objective manner.

  13. Expository Essay in Literature: Definition & Examples

    Expository Essay Definition. An expository essay [ik-SPOZ-ih-tohr-ee ess-ay] is an essay in which the writer researches a topic and uses evidence to inform their readers or clarify the topic.They can take many forms, including a how-to essay, an essay that defines something, or an essay that studies a problem and offers a solution.

  14. Expository Essay ~ Definition, Types & Structure

    An expository essay is a type of writing where the author presents facts and evaluates a concept about a place, an object, a person, or an experience. The writer is expected to present information regarding the concept unbiased and accurately while ensuring it is written in the third person and delivered in chronological sequence.

  15. How to Write an Expository Essay

    "The expository essay is the type of essay that involves an investigation of an idea or topic, appraises relevant supporting evidence material, and presents an argument in a clear and concise manner. " When to Write an Expository Essay Your school or university could assign an expository essay to you as coursework or as part of an online exam.

  16. PDF Writing an Expository Essay

    Writing an Expository Essay Part 1 Essay structure and the introductory paragraph Part 2 Body paragraphs, concluding paragraphs, and outlining ... An essay is a piece of writing made up of a number of paragraphs. Each paragraph has a specifi c role in an essay. In a fi ve-paragraph essay, the fi rst

  17. How to Write an Expository Essay

    Expository essay definition. An expository essay is a type of academic or research essay. An expository essay exposes information. Overview of an expository essay. An expository essay is the traditional academic essay: you give information and analyze what it means. To write an effective expository essay, research needs to be conducted on the ...

  18. Expository Essay: Definition, Outline, Topics & Examples of ...

    An expository essay is one which is used to explain something, in the most simple terms. The word expository comes from the word expose, and this means to uncover something so that other people are able to understand it for what it is. This type of essay is therefore used as a way of explaining or clarifying the subject for the reader.

  19. Understanding What an Expository Essay Is

    Expository essays are simply essays that explain something with facts, as opposed to using opinion to inform the reader. Sample styles for expository essays may include: Papers that described how to do something ( how to essay ). Papers that analyze events, ideas, objects, or written works. Papers that describe a process ( step by step essay).

  20. Expository Writing

    Compare And Contrast In this type of expository writing, the writer compares the similarities and contrasts the differences between the two subjects. This is only possible when subjects belong to the same category. For example, a comparative study between indoor and outdoor stadiums. Definition And Classification

  21. Types of Expository Writing

    Expository writing is a genre of writing that is used to explain, describe, inform, or clarify a particular expository essay topic to the reader. Unlike other forms of writing that may involve personal opinions or persuasion, the characteristics of expository writing include a focus on providing factual information in a clear and organized manner.

  22. Expository Writing: Everything You Need to Know

    Contents First and foremost, let's define expository writing. Unlike other types of writing, such as persuasive or descriptive writing, expository writing aims to inform and explain rather than persuade or evoke emotions. The objective is to provide readers with facts, details, and examples to help them understand a particular topic or concept.

  23. Tips on Writing an Excellent Expository Essay

    Writing an expository essay is easy with our step-by-step guide. First, read the article and find the outline and best topics for your paper. US. 19292010148 . ... The definition of an expository essay is to expose an idea by explaining the evidence and facts surrounding the topic. Its purpose is to explain or clarify information on a subject.