features of an expository essay

Quick and Easy Guide on How to Write an Expository Essay

features of an expository essay

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

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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! 

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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.

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Expository Essays

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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

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  • The four main types of essay | Quick guide with examples

The Four Main Types of Essay | Quick Guide with Examples

Published on September 4, 2020 by Jack Caulfield . Revised on July 23, 2023.

An essay is a focused piece of writing designed to inform or persuade. There are many different types of essay, but they are often defined in four categories: argumentative, expository, narrative, and descriptive essays.

Argumentative and expository essays are focused on conveying information and making clear points, while narrative and descriptive essays are about exercising creativity and writing in an interesting way. At university level, argumentative essays are the most common type. 

In high school and college, you will also often have to write textual analysis essays, which test your skills in close reading and interpretation.

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Table of contents

Argumentative essays, expository essays, narrative essays, descriptive essays, textual analysis essays, other interesting articles, frequently asked questions about types of essays.

An argumentative essay presents an extended, evidence-based argument. It requires a strong thesis statement —a clearly defined stance on your topic. Your aim is to convince the reader of your thesis using evidence (such as quotations ) and analysis.

Argumentative essays test your ability to research and present your own position on a topic. This is the most common type of essay at college level—most papers you write will involve some kind of argumentation.

The essay is divided into an introduction, body, and conclusion:

  • The introduction provides your topic and thesis statement
  • The body presents your evidence and arguments
  • The conclusion summarizes your argument and emphasizes its importance

The example below is a paragraph from the body of an argumentative essay about the effects of the internet on education. Mouse over it to learn more.

A common frustration for teachers is students’ use of Wikipedia as a source in their writing. Its prevalence among students is not exaggerated; a survey found that the vast majority of the students surveyed used Wikipedia (Head & Eisenberg, 2010). An article in The Guardian stresses a common objection to its use: “a reliance on Wikipedia can discourage students from engaging with genuine academic writing” (Coomer, 2013). Teachers are clearly not mistaken in viewing Wikipedia usage as ubiquitous among their students; but the claim that it discourages engagement with academic sources requires further investigation. This point is treated as self-evident by many teachers, but Wikipedia itself explicitly encourages students to look into other sources. Its articles often provide references to academic publications and include warning notes where citations are missing; the site’s own guidelines for research make clear that it should be used as a starting point, emphasizing that users should always “read the references and check whether they really do support what the article says” (“Wikipedia:Researching with Wikipedia,” 2020). Indeed, for many students, Wikipedia is their first encounter with the concepts of citation and referencing. The use of Wikipedia therefore has a positive side that merits deeper consideration than it often receives.

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features of an expository essay

An expository essay provides a clear, focused explanation of a topic. It doesn’t require an original argument, just a balanced and well-organized view of the topic.

Expository essays test your familiarity with a topic and your ability to organize and convey information. They are commonly assigned at high school or in exam questions at college level.

The introduction of an expository essay states your topic and provides some general background, the body presents the details, and the conclusion summarizes the information presented.

A typical body paragraph from an expository essay about the invention of the printing press is shown below. Mouse over it to learn more.

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.

A narrative essay is one that tells a story. This is usually a story about a personal experience you had, but it may also be an imaginative exploration of something you have not experienced.

Narrative essays test your ability to build up a narrative in an engaging, well-structured way. They are much more personal and creative than other kinds of academic writing . Writing a personal statement for an application requires the same skills as a narrative essay.

A narrative essay isn’t strictly divided into introduction, body, and conclusion, but it should still begin by setting up the narrative and finish by expressing the point of the story—what you learned from your experience, or why it made an impression on you.

Mouse over the example below, a short narrative essay responding to the prompt “Write about an experience where you learned something about yourself,” to explore its structure.

Since elementary school, I have always favored subjects like science and math over the humanities. My instinct was always to think of these subjects as more solid and serious than classes like English. If there was no right answer, I thought, why bother? But recently I had an experience that taught me my academic interests are more flexible than I had thought: I took my first philosophy class.

Before I entered the classroom, I was skeptical. I waited outside with the other students and wondered what exactly philosophy would involve—I really had no idea. I imagined something pretty abstract: long, stilted conversations pondering the meaning of life. But what I got was something quite different.

A young man in jeans, Mr. Jones—“but you can call me Rob”—was far from the white-haired, buttoned-up old man I had half-expected. And rather than pulling us into pedantic arguments about obscure philosophical points, Rob engaged us on our level. To talk free will, we looked at our own choices. To talk ethics, we looked at dilemmas we had faced ourselves. By the end of class, I’d discovered that questions with no right answer can turn out to be the most interesting ones.

The experience has taught me to look at things a little more “philosophically”—and not just because it was a philosophy class! I learned that if I let go of my preconceptions, I can actually get a lot out of subjects I was previously dismissive of. The class taught me—in more ways than one—to look at things with an open mind.

A descriptive essay provides a detailed sensory description of something. Like narrative essays, they allow you to be more creative than most academic writing, but they are more tightly focused than narrative essays. You might describe a specific place or object, rather than telling a whole story.

Descriptive essays test your ability to use language creatively, making striking word choices to convey a memorable picture of what you’re describing.

A descriptive essay can be quite loosely structured, though it should usually begin by introducing the object of your description and end by drawing an overall picture of it. The important thing is to use careful word choices and figurative language to create an original description of your object.

Mouse over the example below, a response to the prompt “Describe a place you love to spend time in,” to learn more about descriptive essays.

On Sunday afternoons I like to spend my time in the garden behind my house. The garden is narrow but long, a corridor of green extending from the back of the house, and I sit on a lawn chair at the far end to read and relax. I am in my small peaceful paradise: the shade of the tree, the feel of the grass on my feet, the gentle activity of the fish in the pond beside me.

My cat crosses the garden nimbly and leaps onto the fence to survey it from above. From his perch he can watch over his little kingdom and keep an eye on the neighbours. He does this until the barking of next door’s dog scares him from his post and he bolts for the cat flap to govern from the safety of the kitchen.

With that, I am left alone with the fish, whose whole world is the pond by my feet. The fish explore the pond every day as if for the first time, prodding and inspecting every stone. I sometimes feel the same about sitting here in the garden; I know the place better than anyone, but whenever I return I still feel compelled to pay attention to all its details and novelties—a new bird perched in the tree, the growth of the grass, and the movement of the insects it shelters…

Sitting out in the garden, I feel serene. I feel at home. And yet I always feel there is more to discover. The bounds of my garden may be small, but there is a whole world contained within it, and it is one I will never get tired of inhabiting.

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Though every essay type tests your writing skills, some essays also test your ability to read carefully and critically. In a textual analysis essay, you don’t just present information on a topic, but closely analyze a text to explain how it achieves certain effects.

Rhetorical analysis

A rhetorical analysis looks at a persuasive text (e.g. a speech, an essay, a political cartoon) in terms of the rhetorical devices it uses, and evaluates their effectiveness.

The goal is not to state whether you agree with the author’s argument but to look at how they have constructed it.

The introduction of a rhetorical analysis presents the text, some background information, and your thesis statement; the body comprises the analysis itself; and the conclusion wraps up your analysis of the text, emphasizing its relevance to broader concerns.

The example below is from a rhetorical analysis of Martin Luther King Jr.’s “I Have a Dream” speech . Mouse over it to learn more.

King’s speech is infused with prophetic language throughout. Even before the famous “dream” part of the speech, King’s language consistently strikes a prophetic tone. He refers to the Lincoln Memorial as a “hallowed spot” and speaks of rising “from the dark and desolate valley of segregation” to “make justice a reality for all of God’s children.” The assumption of this prophetic voice constitutes the text’s strongest ethical appeal; after linking himself with political figures like Lincoln and the Founding Fathers, King’s ethos adopts a distinctly religious tone, recalling Biblical prophets and preachers of change from across history. This adds significant force to his words; standing before an audience of hundreds of thousands, he states not just what the future should be, but what it will be: “The whirlwinds of revolt will continue to shake the foundations of our nation until the bright day of justice emerges.” This warning is almost apocalyptic in tone, though it concludes with the positive image of the “bright day of justice.” The power of King’s rhetoric thus stems not only from the pathos of his vision of a brighter future, but from the ethos of the prophetic voice he adopts in expressing this vision.

Literary analysis

A literary analysis essay presents a close reading of a work of literature—e.g. a poem or novel—to explore the choices made by the author and how they help to convey the text’s theme. It is not simply a book report or a review, but an in-depth interpretation of the text.

Literary analysis looks at things like setting, characters, themes, and figurative language. The goal is to closely analyze what the author conveys and how.

The introduction of a literary analysis essay presents the text and background, and provides your thesis statement; the body consists of close readings of the text with quotations and analysis in support of your argument; and the conclusion emphasizes what your approach tells us about the text.

Mouse over the example below, the introduction to a literary analysis essay on Frankenstein , to learn more.

Mary Shelley’s Frankenstein is often read as a crude cautionary tale about the dangers of scientific advancement unrestrained by ethical considerations. In this reading, protagonist Victor Frankenstein is a stable representation of the callous ambition of modern science throughout the novel. This essay, however, argues that far from providing a stable image of the character, Shelley uses shifting narrative perspectives to portray Frankenstein in an increasingly negative light as the novel goes on. While he initially appears to be a naive but sympathetic idealist, after the creature’s narrative Frankenstein begins to resemble—even in his own telling—the thoughtlessly cruel figure the creature represents him as. This essay begins by exploring the positive portrayal of Frankenstein in the first volume, then moves on to the creature’s perception of him, and finally discusses the third volume’s narrative shift toward viewing Frankenstein as the creature views him.

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At high school and in composition classes at university, you’ll often be told to write a specific type of essay , but you might also just be given prompts.

Look for keywords in these prompts that suggest a certain approach: The word “explain” suggests you should write an expository essay , while the word “describe” implies a descriptive essay . An argumentative essay might be prompted with the word “assess” or “argue.”

The vast majority of essays written at university are some sort of argumentative essay . Almost all academic writing involves building up an argument, though other types of essay might be assigned in composition classes.

Essays can present arguments about all kinds of different topics. For example:

  • In a literary analysis essay, you might make an argument for a specific interpretation of a text
  • In a history essay, you might present an argument for the importance of a particular event
  • In a politics essay, you might argue for the validity of a certain political theory

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.

The key difference is that a narrative essay is designed to tell a complete story, while a descriptive essay is meant to convey an intense description of a particular place, object, or concept.

Narrative and descriptive essays both allow you to write more personally and creatively than other kinds of essays , and similar writing skills can apply to both.

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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.

features of an expository essay

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.

features of an expository essay

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.

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Home / Guides / Writing Guides / Paper Types / How to Write an Expository Essay

How to Write an Expository Essay

Every student has to write an expository essay at least once in their educational career. These are actually fairly simple essays to write, but they do require some serious research skills. Like most academic essays, the expository essay requires formal writing with an introduction, body, and conclusion.

Guide Overview

  • Focus on the thesis
  • Listen to the assignment
  • Explain, don’t argue
  • Revise and edit, revise and edit
  • Choosing the right topic

Tips for Writing a Kick-Butt Essay

Want to really impress your professor? Here are a few ways you can turn an ordinary essay into something that will blow their socks off.

Focus on the Thesis

Your thesis is the central point of the entire essay, so if it’s amazing, you’re off to a great start. Begin with this and make sure you decide on something that is impressive to kick off the essay.

Listen to the Assignment

Your professor may give you hints on what they’re looking for. If you just write down the basics of the assignment, you could miss out on some key points. For example, your professor may hint at a preferred topic or give tips that could result in a higher score. Write it all down and then analyze what is wanted before you write.

Long before you actually put pen to paper or fingers to keyboard to write the essay, you need to complete the pre-writing phase. This is where you do research and outline your essay. You’ll be amazed at how much better your writing is when you have these basic elements in place first. If you need help with these basic elements consider using an Expository Essay Template.

Explain, Don’t Argue

If you’re not careful, an expository essay can turn into a persuasive or argumentative essay. Focus on explaining the topic, rather than convincing people of something about it.

Revise and Edit, Revise and Edit

Going over the essay once to edit and polish isn’t really enough. If you’re tight on time, such as when writing an essay for an exam, just once will do. However, if you have time, it’s a good idea to edit immediately, then let the essay sit overnight or even longer. When you come back, you won’t be as close to the writing and can look at it more objectively.

Choosing the Right Topic

Topics for an expository essay vary widely, but ideally, you should select something you’re interested in writing about. Topics can answer a question such as “How can we prevent bullying in school?” or they can describe something like a historical building in your area. Other interesting topics to inspire you include:

  • How does technology affect our relationships?
  • How to treat a burn
  • What are the must-haves for a freshman in college?
  • How to handle anxiety attacks naturally
  • How to train your dog to stop barking on command
  • Research the history of a monument in your area
  • Why roller skating is a great exercise

As you can see, there’s no limit to the types of topics you can choose for your essay and it really comes down to what the professor assigns you and what you enjoy writing about. How narrow your topic is will also depend on how much you plan to write. An entire history of the Civil War won’t fit into two page, for example, so you’ll need to narrow it down to a specific battle or element of the Civil War.

Writing an expository essay can actually be a fun experience if you approach it the right way. When you enjoy the topic and are interested in it, your essay will show that and will stand out from those written out of boredom.

Finally, if you’re ever facing writer’s block for your college paper, consider WriteWell Essay Templates to help you get started.

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Expository Writing: Definition and Examples

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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.

features of an expository essay

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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.

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  • 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.

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What Is Expository Writing?

How to Write an Expository Essay

  • Ph.D., Rhetoric and English, University of Georgia
  • M.A., Modern English and American Literature, University of Leicester
  • B.A., English, State University of New York

Expository writing is used to convey factual information (as opposed to creative writing, such as fiction). It is the language of learning and understanding the world around us. If you've ever read an encyclopedia entry, a how-to article on a website, or a chapter in a textbook, then you've encountered examples of expository writing.

Key Takeaways: Expository Writing

  • Just the facts, M'am: Expository writing is informational, not creative writing.
  • Anytime you write to describe or explain, you use expository writing.
  • Use a logical flow when planning an expository essay, report, or article: introduction, body text, and conclusion.
  • It's often easier to write the body of your article first, before composing the introduction or conclusion.

Expository writing is everywhere in everyday life, not just academic settings, as it's present anytime there's information to be conveyed. It can take form in an academic paper, an article for a newspaper, a report for a business, or even book-length nonfiction. It explains, informs, and describes.

Types of 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 . Unlike creative or  persuasive writing , which can appeal to emotions and use anecdotes, expository writing's primary  purpose  is to deliver information about an issue, subject, method, or idea using facts.

Exposition may take one of several forms:

  • Descriptive/definition:  In this style of writing, topics are defined by characteristics, traits, and examples. An encyclopedia entry is a kind of descriptive essay. 
  • Process/sequential:  This essay outlines a series of steps needed in order to complete a task or produce something. A recipe at the end of an article in a food magazine is one example.
  • Comparative/contrast:  This kind of exposition is used to demonstrate how two or more subjects are the same and different. An article that explains the difference between owning and renting a home and the benefits and drawbacks of each is one such an example.
  • Cause/effect:  This kind of essay describes how one step leads to a result. An example is a personal blog chronicling a workout regimen and documenting the results over time.
  • Problem/solution: This type of essay presents a problem and possible solutions, backed by data and facts, not just opinion.
  • Classification: A classification essay breaks down a broad topic into categories or groupings.

Tips for Expository Writing

As you write, keep in mind some of these tips for creating an effective expository essay:

Start where you know the information best. You don't have to write your introduction first. In fact, it might be easier to wait until the end for that. If you don't like the look of a blank page, move over the slugs from your outline for the main body paragraphs and write the topic sentences for each. Then start putting in your information according to each paragraph's topic.

Be clear and concise.  Readers have a limited attention span. Make your case succinctly in language that the average reader can understand. 

Stick to the facts.  Although an exposition can be persuasive, it should not be based on opinion only. Support your case with facts, data, and reputable sources that can be documented and verified.

Consider voice and tone.  How you address the reader depends on the kind of essay you're writing. An essay written in the first person is fine for a personal travel essay but is inappropriate if you're a business reporter describing a patent lawsuit. Think about your audience before you begin writing.

Planning Your Essay

  • Brainstorm: Jot down ideas on a blank piece of paper. Connect them with arrows and lines, or just make lists. Rigor doesn't matter at this stage. Bad ideas don't matter at this stage. Just write down ideas, and the engine in your head will lead you to a good one. When you've got that idea, then repeat the brainstorming exercise with ideas that you want to pursue on that topic and information you could put in. From this list, you'll start to see a path emerge for your research or narrative to follow.
  • Compose your thesis: When your ideas coalesce into a sentence in which you can summarize the topic you're writing about, you're ready to compose your thesis sentence. Write down in one sentence the main idea that you'll explore in your paper.
  • Examine your thesis: Is it clear? Does it contain opinion? If so, revise that out. For this type of essay, you stick to the facts and evidence. This isn't an editorial. Is the thesis' scope manageable? You don't want your topic too narrow or too broad to be covered in the amount of space you have for your paper. If it's not a manageable topic, refine it. Don't be dismayed if you have to come back and tweak it if your research finds that your initial idea was off-kilter. It's all just part of the process of focusing the material.
  • Outline: It may seem inconsequential, but making even a quick outline can save you time by organizing your areas of pursuit and narrowing them down. When you see your topics in an organized list, you may be able to discard off-topic threads before you research them—or as you're researching them and you find they just don't work.
  • Research: Find your data and sources to back up the areas you want to pursue to support your thesis statement. Look for sources written by experts, including organizations, and watch for bias. Possible sources include statistics, definitions, charts and graphs, and expert quotes and anecdotes. Compile descriptive details and comparisons to make your topic clear to your reader, when applicable.

What Is an Expository Essay?

An expository essay has three basic parts: the introduction, the body, and the conclusion. Each is crucial to writing a clear article or effective argument.

The introduction: The first paragraph is where you'll lay the foundation for your essay and give the reader an overview of your thesis. Use your opening sentence to get the reader's attention, and then follow up with a few sentences that give your reader some context for the information you're about to cover.

The body:  At a minimum, include three to five paragraphs in the body of your expository essay. The body could be considerably longer, depending on your topic and audience. Each paragraph begins with a topic sentence where you state your case or objective. Each topic sentence supports your overall thesis statement. Then, each paragraph includes several sentences that expand on the information and/or support the topic sentence. Finally, a concluding sentence offers a transition to the following paragraph in the essay.

The conclusion:  The final section of your expository essay should give the reader a concise overview of your thesis. The intent is not merely to summarize your argument but to use it as a means of proposing further action, offering a solution, or posing new questions to explore. Don't cover new material related to your thesis, though. This is where you wrap it all up.

Expository Examples

An expository article or report about a lake, for example, could discuss its ecosystem: the plants and animals that depend on it along with its climate. It could describe physical details about its size, depth, amount of rainfall each year, and the number of tourists it receives annually. Information on when it was formed, its best fishing spots, or its water quality could be included, depending on the audience for the piece.

An expository piece could be in third person or second person. Second-person examples could include, for example, how to test lake water for pollutants or how to kill invasive species. Expository writing is useful and informative.

In contrast, someone writing a creative nonfiction article about a lake might relate the place to a defining moment in his or her life, penning the piece in first person. It could be filled with emotion, opinion, sensory details, and even include dialogue and flashbacks. It's a much more evocative, personal type of writing than an expository piece, even though they're both nonfiction styles.

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How to Write Excellent Expository Essays

Expository Essay Writing Guide for Students and Teachers

In this guide, we will take you through a complete understanding of an expository essay is how to structure an expository essay so you can write one like a pro. You can then explore some expository essay writing examples and writing prompts. Let’s get started.

WHAT IS EXPOSITORY ESSAY WRITING?

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A significant clue lies in the word itself. Expository writing ‘exposes’ something to the reader.

Though the term is sometimes used to include persuasive writing , a proper expository text does not allow the writer’s personal opinion to intrude into the text.

An expository text aims to explain, inform, or describe a topic logically and straightforwardly.

types of expository essay

There are many different types of expository texts (e.g. encyclopaedias, travel guides, information reports , etc.), but there are also various expository essays.

The most common types of these expository essays are:

  • Process Essays
  • Cause and Effect Essays
  • Problem and Solution Essays
  • Compare and Contrast Essays
  • Definition Essays
  • Classification Essays

Let’s take a quick look at each of these in turn. In the following section, you’ll find a brief description of each expository essay type. Some notable features have been listed, and a suggested expository essay title has been provided for each.

And remember, if you are looking for expository essay topics, check out our essay writing prompts page here .

THE PROCESS ESSAY

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This how-to essay often takes the form of a set of instructions. Also known as a procedural text , the process essay has some very specific features that aim to guide the reader on how to do or make something.

If you want to learn more about this type of writing, check out our information-packed article here .

Features of a process essay

Some of the main features of the process essay include:

  • ‘How to’ title
  • Numbered or bullet points
  • Time connectives
  • Imperatives (bossy words)
  • List of resources

Suggested Title: How to Create Your Own Website

THE ULTIMATE NONFICTION TEACHING RESOURCE

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  • 270  pages of the most effective teaching strategies
  • 50+   digital tools  ready right out of the box
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THE CAUSE AND EFFECT ESSAY

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The purpose of a cause-and-effect essay is to explore the causal relationships between things. Essays like this often bring the focus back to a single cause. These essays frequently have a historical focus.

As an expository essay, the text should focus on facts rather than assumptions. However, cause-and-effect essays sometimes explore hypothetical situations too.

There are two main ways to structure a cause-and-effect essay.

The Block Structure presents all the causes first. The writer then focuses on the effects of these causes in the second half of the essay.

The Chain Structure presents each cause and then immediately follows with the effects it created.

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THE PROBLEM AND SOLUTION ESSAY

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In this type of essay, the writer first identifies a problem and then explores the topic from various angles to ultimately propose a solution. It has many similarities with the cause-and-effect essay.

While the problem and solution essay can use the block and chain structures as outlined above – substitute cause with problem and effect with a solution – it will also usually work through the following elements:

  • Identifies a problem
  • Contains a clear thesis statement
  • Each paragraph has a topic sentence
  • Supports with facts, examples, evidence
  • The conclusion summarizes the main points

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THE COMPARE AND CONTRAST ESSAY

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In this type of essay, students evaluate the similarities and differences between two or more things, ideas, people, etc. Usually, the subjects will belong to the same category.

The compare-and-contrast expository essay can be organized in several different ways. Three of these are outlined below.

In the three structures outlined, it is assumed that two subjects are being compared and contrasted. Of course, the precise number of paragraphs required in the text will depend on the number of points the student wishes to make and the number of subjects being compared and contrasted.

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DEFINITION ESSAYS

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This type of essay provides a detailed description and definition of a word or phrase. This can be a concrete term such as car or glass or a more abstract concept such as love or fear .

A definition essay comprehensively explains a term’s purpose and meaning. It will frequently contain some or all of the following elements:

  • A definition of the term
  • An analysis of its meaning
  • The etymology of the term
  • A comparison to related terms
  • Examples to illustrate the meaning
  • A summary of the main points

Suggested Title: What Is Beauty?

CLASSIFICATION ESSAYS

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Similar to a definition essay, a classification essay sorts or organizes things into various groups or categories. This type of essay then explains each group or category in detail.

Classification essays focus on:

  • Sorting things into functional categories
  • Ensuring each category follows a common organizing principle
  • Provides examples that illustrate each category.

Suggested Title: Vacation Destinations

TYPES OF EXPOSITORY ESSAYS SORTING ACTIVITY

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To help students gain some experience identifying the features of the different expository essay types, gather together a selection of different essays and challenge students to work together in groups to classify each essay according to the criteria above.

EXPOSITORY ESSAY STRUCTURE

TEXT ORGANIZATION Organize your thoughts before writing.

CLARITY Use clear and concise wording. There is no room for banter.

THESIS STATEMENT State position in direct terms.

TOPIC SENTENCE Open each paragraph with a topic sentence.

SUPPORTING DETAIL Support the topic sentence with further explanation and evidence.

LINK End each body paragraph by linking to the next.

EXPOSITORY ESSAY TYPES

PROCESS Tell your audience how to achieve something, such as how to bake a cake.

CAUSE & EFFECT Explore relationships between subjects, such as climate change and its impact.

PROBLEM & SOLUTION Explain how to solve a problem, such as improve physical fitness.

COMPARE & CONTRAST Compare and contrast two or more items, such as life in China life vs life in the United States or Australia.

DEFINITION Provides a detailed definition of a word or phrase such as self-confidence.

CLASSIFICATION Organizes things into categories or groups such as types of music.

THE BASIC STRUCTURE OF AN EXPOSITORY ESSAY

While there are many types of expository essays, the basic underlying structure is the same. The Hamburger or 5-Paragraph Essay structure is an excellent scaffold for students to build their articles. To learn more about this essay format, check out our detailed article here .

But let’s take a quick look at the expository essay outline.

INTRODUCTION:

This is the top bun of the burger, and here the student introduces the topic of the exposition. This will usually consist of a general statement on the subject, providing an overview of the essay. It may also preview each significant section, indicating what aspects of the subject will be covered in the text. These sections will likely relate to the headings and subheadings identified at the planning stage.

If the introduction is the top bun of the burger, then each body paragraph is a beef patty. Self-contained in some regards, each patty forms an integral part of the whole.

EXPOSITORY PARAGRAPHS

Each of the body paragraphs deals with one idea or piece of information. For more complex topics, these may be grouped under a common heading, and the number of paragraphs will depend on the complexity of the topic. For example, an expository text on wolves may include a series of paragraphs under headings such as habitat, breeding habits, what they eat, etc.

Each paragraph should open with a topic sentence indicating to the reader what the paragraph is about. The following sentences should further illuminate this main idea through discussion and/or explanation. Encourage students to use evidence and examples here, whether statistical or anecdotal. Remind students to keep things factual – this is not an editorial piece for a newspaper!

EXPOSITORY PARAGRAPH EXAMPLE

“I hate mosquitoes because they annoy me while I am outside. For example, whenever we have barbeques, they want to swarm all around the food. Also, when I go fishing with my Dad, we always have to wear bug spray. The bug spray always stinks to high heaven! Then, if you do not want to use bug spray, the only other way to get them to leave you alone is to wear long sleeves. Yet, who wants to wear long sleeves when it is hot outside? Nothing ruins your day like bloodsucking mosquitoes” – This paragraph uses a first-person perspective to identify a problem. (mosquitoes.)

EXPOSITORY CONCLUSION:

Generally, the conclusion of any essay should neatly close the circle by summarizing the information through restating the main ideas in a unique way. This bottom bun of the hamburger essay is no different. Remind students that a proper expository essay is objective in nature and to beware of injecting their opinion or bias into the piece. The purpose here is to inform rather than persuade.

FEATURES OF EXPOSITORY WRITING

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Expository writing is usually not the place for flowery flourishes of figurative imagery! Students should be encouraged to select a straightforward language that is easy for the reader to understand. After all, the aim here is to inform and explain, and this is best achieved with explicit language.

As we’ve seen, there are several variations of the expository essay, but the following are the most common features that students must include.

The title should be functional. It should instantly inform the reader what they will learn about in the text. This is not the place for opaque poetry!

A table of contents in long essays will help the reader locate helpful information quickly. Usually, the page numbers found here will be linked to headings and subheadings to be found in the text.

HEADINGS / SUBHEADINGS:

These assist the reader in finding information by summarizing the content in their wording.

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Usually listed in alphabetical order, the glossary defines unusual or topic-specific vocabulary and is sometimes accompanied by pictures, illustrations etc.

The index allows the reader to identify where to find specific information in longer texts. An index is much more detailed than a table of contents.

VISUAL FORMS OF INFORMATION

Expository essays sometimes support the text with visuals, such as:

  • Pictures / Illustrations / Photographs:

These can be used to present a central idea or concept within the text and are often accompanied by a caption explaining what the image shows. Photographs can offer a broad overview or a close-up of essential details.

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Diagrams are a great way to convey complex information quickly. They should be labelled clearly to ensure the reader knows what they are looking at.

  • Charts and Graphs:

These are extremely useful for showing data and statistics in an easy-to-read manner. They should be labelled clearly and correspond to the information in the nearby text.

Maps may be used to explain where something is, or was, located. 

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Teaching Resources

Use our resources and tools to improve your student’s writing skills through proven teaching strategies.

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EXPOSITORY ESSAY EXAMPLE

One of the best ways to understand the different features of expository essays is to see them in action. The sample essay below is a definition essay, but it shares many of its features with other expository essays.

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EXPOSITORY WRITING PROMPTS

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FINAL THOUGHTS

Your students will need a good understanding of the basic features of expository writing and a firm grasp of the hamburger essay structure itself. As with any writing genre , the prewriting stages are essential too. This is particularly true for expository writing. 

As this genre of writing is designed primarily to inform the reader, sound research and note-taking are essential for your students to produce a well-written text. Expository writing offers excellent opportunities for students to develop these critical skills, skills that will be very useful to them as they continue in their education. 

Likewise, the redrafting and editing of their texts are very important. Facts and statistics should be checked and rechecked, and the language is edited tightly to ensure that language is clear and concise throughout. 

The ability to produce a well-written expository essay is a highly beneficial skill for a student to possess as they move through life. It encourages good organizational skills and enriches students’ understanding of the world around them. 

And, while we grade their efforts, we might even learn a thing or two ourselves!

ESSAY WRITING CHECKLIST & RUBRIC BUNDLE

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EXPOSITORY ESSAY TUTORIAL VIDEO

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The content for this page has been written by Shane Mac Donnchaidh.  A former principal of an international school and English university lecturer with 15 years of teaching and administration experience. Shane’s latest Book, The Complete Guide to Nonfiction Writing , can be found here.  Editing and support for this article have been provided by the literacyideas team.

Expository Essay Writing

Cathy A.

Expository Essay Writing - Types, Format, Topics & Examples

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Published on: Apr 24, 2020

Last updated on: Jan 31, 2024

Expository essay writing

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Writing an expository essay can be a daunting task, leaving many students feeling overwhelmed and uncertain about where to begin. The lack of clear guidance and structured resources often leads to frustration and subpar results.

However, fear not! 

We understand the struggles you face when attempting to craft a compelling and informative expository essay. 

In this comprehensive guide, we will break down the entire process of writing an expository essay into manageable steps.

By following these tips and examples, you'll gain the confidence and skills needed to excel in your expository writing endeavors.

So let’s get started!

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What is an Expository Essay?

An expository essay can be defined as an essay that investigates and evaluates an idea or an event. This essay type requires a student to form an argument related to the concept and prove it using different techniques.

An expository essay is often assigned to high school students. They are used to explain a topic logically by presenting a balanced analysis using facts.

What is the Purpose of an Expository Essay?

When writing an expository essay, you should use facts and logic rather than subjective truths and personal opinions. 

The main purpose of writing the expository is to:

  • Educate and inform the reader
  • Define the concept in detail
  • Examine one or more arguments
  • Investigate the topic in detail

You can also check out this video guide for expository essay writing!

Types of an Expository Essay

Knowing the different types of expository essays can help you choose a topic as well as plan your essay structure. 

The following are the common types of expository essay:

  • Definition Essay - A definition essay defines a topic to give a more precise image to the readers. 
  • Process Essay - A process essay is defined as a type of essay explaining and discussing the making of something. 
  • Problem and Solution Essay - A problem and solution essay discusses a problem in detail by providing solutions.
  • Cause and Effect Essay - The cause and effect essay analyzes all the causes and effects of an action or an event. 
  • Compare and Contrast Essay - The compare and contrast essay highlights all the similarities and differences between the subjects.
  • Classification Essay - The classification essay thoroughly examines the topic by splitting it into different categories. 

Expository Essay Structure 

The five-paragraph essay is a common structure for expository writing. This means there will be an introduction, followed by three body paragraphs and a conclusion. 

Here is the expository essay structure that you can use for your help.

Expository Essay Format

Just like other formal pieces of writing, an expository essay also requires a proper format. However, there is no set of rules to format your essay, but there are general elements that your essay should have.

Below-given is an example of how you should format your expository essay correctly.

Sample Expository Essay Format

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Expository Essay Outline

Many people think making an outline isn't worth the time. However, it'll save more precious minutes in research and typing up materials later on.

The outline is a great way to break down each paragraph of your expository essay into different sections. It also helps you visualize how all the information will come together and make sense as well!

Now let's go over each section in more detail:

Expository Essay Introduction

The introduction of an essay is the first thing somebody reads. It's your chance to impress and explain what you're going to cover in more detail. Thus, it must be clear and engaging. 

The essay introduction is written to let the audience know what the essay is about. In this paragraph of the essay, the writer presents the following information:

  • Hook statement - An opening sentence of the introduction paragraph drafted to grab the reader’s attention.
  • Building sentences - Present the background information after the hook statement to give context to the topic to the readers. 
  • Thesis Statement - The last part of the introduction is the thesis statement . It is the main argument of the writer on the topic.

Expository Essay Body Paragraphs 

After the introduction, the body paragraphs of the expository essay serve as the foundation.   Here, we will explore the importance of topic sentences and thesis statements.

This section is based on the following elements:

  • Topic Sentence - It is the first sentence of a body paragraph that expresses the idea provided in that particular paragraph.
  • Supporting Sentences - They support the topic sentence and the thesis statement using examples, explanations, evidence, and logic. 
  • Concluding Sentence - It concludes a paragraph and links the next paragraph with the previous one.

Expository Essay Conclusion 

All the essay’s body paragraphs lead to the conclusion section, where the writer sums up his discussion. Include the following things in the expository essay conclusion :

  • Restated Thesis Statement - The conclusion paragraph is started with a restated thesis statement in different words.
  • Summary of the Main Points - Following the thesis comes a summary of the major points in the content. 
  • Final Verdict - Finally, the essay is concluded by providing some final thoughts on the topic. 

You can also check out this blog on expository essay outline to thoroughly understand how to create one!

How to Write an Expository Essay? 5 Easy Steps

Students often find it hard to write an expository essay. It requires a firm knowledge of the topic and a good analysis.

The following are the steps that you should follow to write an impressive expository essay.

1. Choose an Engaging Topic

The first step is to decide on an expository essay topic. This step might sound easier, but it can be challenging for the students. Thus, your essay topic should fulfill all the basic requirements.

Keep the following things in mind while selecting a good topic for your essay.

  • The topic should be interesting for the audience as well as for yourself.
  • It should be informative enough.
  • It should be broad as well to be explained in detail.

If you have not assigned a topic for the essay, you can be creative and choose a topic you like.

2. Gather Information

The purpose of drafting an expository essay is to inform the audience about the topic in-depth. For this reason, the essay content should be informative and well-written.

Note the points you know about the topic to start the research. Conduct comprehensive research by going through multiple sources of information. Analyze every aspect and investigate the topic from every angle.

3. Create an Expository Essay Outline

The gathered information needs to be arranged in proper order to give your content logic. For this purpose, an outline is created to divide the essay’s content into different sections.

According to the traditional outline, there are three parts into which your essay is divided:

  • Introduction

4. Start Writing

The actual writing is the easiest part of any essay. Just put your thoughts down on paper that you need to add. This is a great way to get started with writing. You can use the outline that you have created before your writing step. 

5. Revise Your Essa y

After completing the essay, the next essential step is to revise what you have written. Without proofreading the content, you will probably submit unstructured and imperfect content. It can affect your grades.

Thus, proofread your essay a couple of times and do the editing. Ensure that the essay should be free from punctuation, grammar, and vocabulary mistakes.

Expository Essay Examples

It is always suggested by professionals to first go through examples when writing something important. If you are confused about the assignment, search for already existing samples related to your topic. With this, you will understand how professionals have approached the essay writing process.

Below are some useful examples of expository essays to help you understand the expository essay structure.

Expository Essay Outline Template

Sample Expository Essay

Expository Essay Rubric

Expository Essay Example for High School

Expository Essay on Importance of Planting Trees

Expository Essay on the Importance of Sports

Expository Essay on Acquiring a New Skill

Good Sample Expository Essay PDF

Explore more expository essay examples to learn how to craft an engaging essay!

Expository Essay Topics

Finding a good topic for an expository essay is important because it will help in your research and writing phase. When you choose the essay topic, make sure you follow these tips. 

  • Pick something you are passionate about; it will make your entire process enjoyable.  
  • The topic you choose should not be too broad or narrow. Broad topics are easier to write about, but they don’t allow you to do in-depth research. 
  • Choose a topic that is too specific. 
  • Always select a topic that you have enough information about.    
  • Brainstorm several ideas and then pick the best one. 

Expository Essay Topics About Education 

  • Explain the consequences of not getting a degree in professional life.
  • Describe what you would like to change about your school and why? 
  • What is the history of your college?
  • Why is tuition so high in the US?
  • The Impact of culture on education
  • Dealing with the college bully
  • Ways to avoid becoming a study’s slave.
  • Criticism of the British education system
  • What are the most effective ways of studying?
  • Benefits of online education 

Expository Essay Topics About Mental Health

  • How does physical activity affect mental health?
  • Explain why the majority of teenagers are in depression?
  • Describe some material things that make people happy.
  • Describe the damages of consuming drugs to mental health.
  • Difference between anxiety disorders
  • What causes anorexia?
  • Society’s stigma towards mental illness
  • Mental health counseling
  • What is a mental health crisis? 
  • Effective mental health 

Expository Essay Topics About Society 

  • Explain why strict parents raise disturbing children?
  • Explain how music influences a student’s life?
  • Explain who a true leader is?
  • Explain the reasons behind the rise in the suicide rate in America?
  • Describe the effects of marijuana.
  • Describe the importance of physical activities in college
  • Describe what interests you to be in your choice of field?
  • Describe photosynthesis.
  • Explain why people should live in a house and not in an apartment? 
  • Describe some productive activities that students can do in their leisure time. 

Expository Essay Topics About Politics 

  • Democracy: pros and cons.
  • Discuss the role that politics play in the country
  • The importance of international relations 
  • Is our national security really secure?
  • Philosophy of politics
  • Election tampering
  • What are the traits of a leader?
  • The role of women in politics
  • Define the term ‘politics’? 

If you want to explore more expository essay topics , check out our blog!

Expository Essay Writing Tips

Students always require extra support and assistance when it comes to essay writing. Follow the tips below to write your expository essay easily.

  • Choose an interesting topic to make your essay attractive to the readers.
  • Choose clear and concise wording for the text.
  • Avoid using vague and lengthy terms and descriptions.
  • Always draft your expository essay from the third-person perspective if not asked otherwise.
  • Write a strong thesis statement and argument to make the essay powerful.
  • Each body paragraph should present a single idea. Avoid stating multiple ideas and concepts in one paragraph.
  • Arguments should be provided in proper order. Use a pyramid approach to arrange the order of the arguments.
  • Use transition words to connect and link ideas and paragraphs.
  • Always cite your sources in the content to avoid plagiarism.
  • Draft a compelling conclusion to leave your audience with something to remember.

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Frequently Asked Questions

What are the three main parts of an expository essay.

The three main parts of an expository essay are: 

  • Introduction 
  • Body paragraphs 
  • Conclusion 

What are the features of an expository essay?

The main features of an expository essay are: 

  • Informative 
  • Clarity 
  • Unbiased 

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features of an expository essay

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Expository writing, table of contents, introduction.

  • What is exposition?
  • Features of expository writing

Types Expository Writing

Expository essay structure.

  • Preparation: Reading a Sample Expository Essay
  • Topic Selection and Understanding
  • Revising and Editing
  • Tips for Writing an Exposition

Expository Essay Sample

Expository writing is a genre of discourse that aims to inform, explain, or describe a subject by presenting facts, evidence, and analysis in a clear, organized, and objective manner. In this article, we will explore this genre of writing and provide step-by-step tips for writing a good expository essay .

Let’s get started with understanding what expository writing means!

What Is Exposition?

Expository writing , also known as exposition , is a form of communication that conveys information, explores ideas, or provides analysis in a clear, concise, and objective manner, relying on evidence, facts, and examples to inform and enlighten the audience.

The purpose of exposition (or expository writing) is not primarily to amuse, but to enlighten and instruct. The objective is to explain and analyze information by presenting an idea, relevant evidence, and appropriate discussion. Its essential quality is clarity.

Most of the writing that you are required to do at school is expository (reports, tests, essays, etc..) Similarly, most of the writing you will do after school will be of this sort.

Examples of expository writing include:

  • Scientific reports
  • Term papers
  • Encyclopedia articles

Features Of Expository Writing

Expository writing serves the primary purpose of conveying information, emphasizing clarity through precise language that elucidates the author’s message. Well-organized expositions maintain focus on their subject, presenting events in chronological order.

It is essential for such writing to adopt an impersonal tone by avoiding second-person instructions and refraining from the use of first-person pronouns.

Furthermore, expository essays adhere to impartiality, deliberately avoiding the overt expression of the writer’s opinions.

The main features include:

  • Expository text is designed to impart information effectively.
  • Employing precise language that distinctly conveys the author’s intended meaning.
  • A proficient exposition maintains focus on its subject and arranges events in a chronological sequence.
  • Avoiding the use of second-person instructions with “you,” while refraining from incorporating first-person pronouns.
  • Expository essays refrain from overtly expressing the writer’s personal opinions.

Expository writing encompasses various types, each serving distinct purposes. Some common types include:

  • Descriptive Writing: Portrays details and characteristics to create a vivid picture, appealing to the reader’s senses.
  • Process/Sequential Writing: Explains a step-by-step process or sequence of events to guide the reader through understanding a procedure.
  • Compare and Contrast Writing: Highlights similarities and differences between two or more subjects to provide insights or make a point.
  • Cause and Effect Writing: Explores the relationships between actions and their consequences, illustrating how one event leads to another.
  • Problem-Solution Writing: Identifies a problem, discusses its implications, and proposes viable solutions.
  • Definition Writing: Clarifies the meaning of a term or concept, often providing additional information to enhance understanding.
  • Classification Writing: Groups items, ideas, or concepts into categories based on shared characteristics.
  • Analysis Writing: Examines the components of a subject and delves into its intricacies to offer a deeper understanding.
  • Informative Writing: Presents factual information on a topic, often in a straightforward and objective manner.
  • Persuasive Writing (to some extent): While primarily aimed at convincing the reader, persuasive writing may contain elements of expository writing by presenting facts and evidence to support the argument.

The structure of an expository essay typically follows a standard format, which includes:

  • Hook: Engage the reader with a compelling statement, question, or anecdote.
  • Thesis Statement: Clearly state the main idea or purpose of the essay.
  • Topic Sentence: Introduce the main point of the paragraph.
  • Supporting Details: Provide facts, evidence, examples, or anecdotes that support the topic sentence.
  • Transition Sentences: Connect paragraphs and maintain the flow of ideas.
  • Restate Thesis: Summarize the main idea without introducing new information.
  • Summary of Key Points: Recap the main points discussed in the body paragraphs.
  • Closing Statement: Leave the reader with a thought-provoking idea, a call to action, or a conclusion.

It’s important to note that the body paragraphs can vary in number based on the requirements of the assignment. Each paragraph should focus on a single aspect or idea related to the overall thesis. Additionally, the use of clear and concise language, as well as logical transitions between paragraphs, contributes to the effectiveness of the expository essay.

How To Write An Expository Essay?

The process of writing an expository essay involves a series of distinct steps, starting with preparatory measures and topic research, progressing through drafting, and culminating in the crucial phases of revising and editing before arriving at the final draft.

Preparation: Reading A Sample Expository Essay

  • Begin by reading a sample of expository writing to gain insights into its structure, language, and overall format. Analyze distinctive features, such as how the introduction engages the reader, the presentation of information in body paragraphs, and the summarization of key points in the conclusion.

Topic Selection And Understanding

  • Choose a Topic: Select a subject that is both familiar and interesting, ensuring it is specific enough to explore thoroughly.
  • Research the Topic: Gather relevant information from reliable sources, including books, articles, and reputable websites.
  • Create a Thesis Statement: Develop a clear and concise thesis statement that effectively conveys the main idea or purpose of the essay.
  • Outline the Essay: Organize thoughts by creating an outline, and planning the introduction, body paragraphs, and conclusion while specifying the main points for each section.
  • Write the Introduction: Begin with a hook that captivates the reader’s attention. Clearly state the thesis statement to provide a roadmap for the essay.
  • Develop Body Paragraphs: Dedicate each paragraph to a specific aspect or supporting detail related to the thesis. Start with a topic sentence, provide supporting evidence, and maintain a logical flow between paragraphs using transitions.
  • Write the Conclusion: Summarize key points discussed in the body paragraphs, restate the thesis without introducing new information, and end with a closing statement that leaves a lasting impression or suggests further exploration.

Revising And Editing

  • Review and Revise: Check the essay for clarity, coherence, and consistency. Ensure that the logical flow of ideas is maintained and that each paragraph contributes effectively to the overall argument.
  • Edit for Language and Style: Look for grammatical errors, punctuation issues, and sentence structure. Consider the use of language and style to enhance the overall quality of the writing.
  • Seek Feedback: Gather feedback from others to gain different perspectives on the effectiveness of the essay.
  • Finalize the Draft: Make necessary revisions based on feedback and proofread the final draft. Ensure the essay adheres to any specific formatting guidelines provided.

Following this organized approach helps streamline the essay-writing process, from initial preparation through drafting and final revisions.

Tips For Writing An Exposition

Here are some tips for writing a good expository essay:

  • Clearly define whether you aim to explain, inform, describe, or instruct, and tailor your writing accordingly.
  • Craft a focused thesis statement that clearly conveys the main idea or purpose of your essay.
  • Gather comprehensive information from reliable sources to provide a solid foundation for your exposition.
  • Develop a well-structured outline to organize your ideas logically, ensuring a smooth flow from the introduction to the conclusion.
  • Begin with a compelling hook to capture the reader’s attention. Clearly state your thesis to provide direction for the essay.
  • Dedicate each paragraph to a specific point or aspect related to the thesis. Use topic sentences and supporting details for clarity.
  • Incorporate transition words and phrases to guide the reader smoothly between ideas and paragraphs.
  • Keep the tone of your essay formal and objective. Avoid the use of first-person pronouns and maintain an impersonal perspective.
  • Support your points with concrete evidence, facts, and examples to enhance the credibility of your exposition.
  • Summarize key points in the conclusion, restate the thesis, and leave the reader with a thought-provoking statement or a call to action.
  • Review your essay for clarity, coherence, and consistency. Edit for grammar, punctuation, and sentence structure.
  • Get input from others to gain different perspectives and identify areas for improvement.
  • Cite your sources properly and ensure that your essay is original and free from plagiarism.
  • Adhere to any specific guidelines or requirements provided by your instructor, ensuring your essay meets the necessary criteria.
  • Take the time to thoroughly proofread your final draft before submission to catch any overlooked errors.

The above tips can enhance the quality and effectiveness of your expository essay. If you follow them, you will create a well-crafted piece of writing that effectively communicates your chosen topic.

Here is an expository essay example about online learning:

Title: The Evolution of Education: Exploring the Dynamics of Online Learning

In education, the advent of online learning has emerged as a transformative force, reshaping the way individuals access information and acquire knowledge. This essay delves into the key facets of online learning, examining its advantages, challenges, and broader implications for the future of education.

Online learning, often synonymous with e-learning or distance education, has dismantled geographical barriers, providing learners with unprecedented access to a diverse array of courses and programs. The flexibility inherent in online learning allows students to pursue education at their own pace, accommodating various learning styles and schedules. Whether balancing work commitments, family responsibilities, or personal pursuits, individuals now have the opportunity to tailor their learning experiences to align with their unique circumstances.

One of the distinct advantages of online learning lies in its accessibility. Through digital platforms and learning management systems, educational resources are available 24/7, fostering an environment where learners can engage with course materials, participate in discussions, and submit assignments at their convenience. This accessibility not only promotes inclusivity but also caters to a global audience, fostering a sense of cultural diversity within virtual classrooms.

Moreover, online learning has catalyzed the evolution of instructional methods. Interactive multimedia elements, virtual simulations, and collaborative online forums enrich the learning experience, transcending the limitations of traditional classroom settings. Asynchronous and synchronous communication tools facilitate meaningful interactions between students and instructors, creating a dynamic virtual learning community.

However, the transition to online learning is not without its challenges. Technological disparities and the digital divide can impede access for some learners, highlighting the need for concerted efforts to bridge these gaps. Additionally, maintaining self-discipline and motivation in the absence of a physical classroom environment poses a challenge that both educators and learners must address.

In conclusion, the rise of online learning marks a paradigm shift in the field of education, offering unprecedented opportunities for accessibility, flexibility, and interactive engagement. While challenges exist, the potential for democratizing education and fostering a global learning community is immense. As online learning continues to evolve, it stands as a testament to the adaptability of education in the face of technological advancements, shaping a future where learning knows no boundaries.

In summary, expository writing involves the presentation of information, ideas, or explanations in a clear and organized manner. It is mainly about conveying facts, exploring concepts, or providing a detailed analysis of a specific subject without expressing personal opinions or emotions.

When you are asked to write an expository essay, make sure to choose a well-defined topic, craft a concise thesis statement that outlines the main idea, and organize your content logically. Use evidence, examples, and relevant details to support your points, and maintain an objective tone throughout. Additionally, pay attention to clarity, coherence, and proper transitions between paragraphs to ensure your essay effectively informs and educates the reader.

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Expository Essay

Expository Essay Examples

Caleb S.

Free Expository Essay Examples For Students

Published on: Aug 14, 2018

Last updated on: Jan 16, 2024

expository essay examples

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Are you a student struggling to understand the intricacies of expository essay writing? 

Do you find yourself in need of clear guidance and practical examples to master this essential skill? Look no further! 

In this guide, we'll look into 10+ expository essay examples, providing you with the knowledge you need to start writing. From understanding the fundamentals to dissecting real examples, we've got you covered. 

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What is Expository Essay Writing?

An expository essay is a form of academic writing that aims to inform, explain, or describe a particular topic to the reader. 

The primary purpose of an expository essay is to provide a clear presentation of facts, ideas, or concepts, often without the writer's personal bias or opinion. The expository essay is a genre of essay that is similar to a descriptive essay .

There are several types of expository writing , including:

  • Definition essay
  • Classification essay
  • Process analysis essay
  • Cause and effect essay
  • Problem solution essay  
  • Compare and contrast essay  

Newspaper articles, journals, and essays that define and explain a particular topic demonstrate expository essay writing.

Read the examples and learn to write a good expository essay for your school or college assignment.

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Expository Essay Examples 

While writing an expository essay, you might face difficulties in formatting and logically connecting your information. Below we have presented some amazing examples to help you understand how to write and organize an expository essay.

Expository Essay Outline Examples

Whenever you write an expository essay, the first thing you should do is craft an outline. The expository essay outline gives shape to your essay and keeps you organized. 

Here are some good expository essay outline examples that you can follow to outline your essay.

Expository Essay Outline Example

Expository Essay Outline Template Sample

Expository Essay Format Example

While writing an essay, you need to follow a proper format to present your information in a logical sequence. 

The typical 5 paragraph essay consists of 1 introduction, 3 body, and 1 conclusion paragraph. 

Below we have given expository essay format examples in both APA and MLA format to help you understand the formatting. Check out: 

Expository Essay Examples APA Format

Expository Essay Examples MLA Format

Short Expository Essay Examples

As we have discussed above, expository essay writing requires you to describe and explain a particular subject in detail. Achieving this level of detail can be quite challenging when working with a limited word count. 

To illustrate how to effectively convey information within limited words, we have provided a short expository essay example.

Short Expository Essay Example

Expository Essay Examples for Middle School

Here are some informative expository essay examples for middle school students to help you grasp the basics of expository essay writing.

Expository Essay Example For Middle School

Expository Essay Example Grade 7

Expository Essay Examples 5th Grade

Expository Essay Examples 4th Grade

Expository Essay Examples for High School

Here are some helpful expository essay examples PDFs for high school students. Check out:

Expository Essay Examples For High School

Expository Essay Examples for College

Looking for a college-level expository essay example? Check out the pdf below:

Expository Essay Examples For College

Expository Essay Examples for University 

Here are some good sample expository essay pdf examples for university students. 

Expository Essay Example About Life

Expository Essay Examples About Covid 19

Informative Expository Essay Example

How to Write an Expository Essay - Example

While writing an expository essay, you need to follow a proper structure. So that you can easily present your information and evidence in a logical sequence.

Here is a step-by-step process of how to write an expository essay:

Step 1. Choose an Appropriate Topic

  • Brainstorm different ideas to select a compelling expository essay topic. Check out our expository essay topics blog for inspiring ideas.
  • Ensure it has the potential to turn into an informative essay by being able to explain and inform effectively.

Step 2. Craft an Engaging Introduction

  • Begin with a captivating hook statement to grab the reader's attention.
  • Provide a brief background on the chosen topic to clarify its relevance.
  • Formulate an informative thesis statement that encapsulates the core idea of your essay.

Step 3. Develop the Body Paragraphs

  • Start each body paragraph with a clear topic sentence , representing the main idea of that particular paragraph.
  • Support the topic sentence with credible evidence, facts, or examples that bolster your thesis statement.
  • Ensure a smooth transition between paragraphs for a logical flow of ideas.

Step 4. Conclude Effectively

  • Start the essay conclusion paragraph by reasserting your thesis statement.
  • Summarize the key points and main arguments presented in the essay.
  • Encourage the reader with a call to action, prompting them to contemplate or engage further with the topic.

Step 5. Proofread and Edit 

  • Proofread your essay for grammatical and spelling mistakes and check if the information is presented in a proper sequence. 
  • Write multiple drafts and edit as needed to ensure your essay is free of errors.

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In conclusion, these expository essay examples offer a valuable resource for students. They serve as effective learning tools, providing insight into the art of expository writing. By studying these examples, students can improve their writing skills, and gain a deeper understanding of essay structure.

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Frequently Asked Questions

What are 3 examples of expository.

The three main examples of expository are; 

  • Scientific reports 
  • Magazine articles 
  • Academic essays 

What are the 4 characteristics of expository text?

The main characteristics of expository text are; 

  • Informative 
  • Clarity 
  • Unbiased 
  • Impersonal 
  • Organization of the text 

What is the first important step in writing an expository essay?

To write an expository essay, you must first decide how to structure your work. An expository essay generally contains an introduction, followed by three body paragraphs and a conclusion. 

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Features of writing an expository essay – a guide for students

Features of writing an expository essay

An expository essay is a description of a topic without presenting personal opinions. In this case, the author, who is a student, enumerates the obtained information, indicates its sources, and draws conclusions. The primary tone of the writing is informative and neutral. The author does not defend their point of view, as in an argumentative essay, but conveys information obtained from processing other scholarly materials. On the contrary, an argumentative essay aims to demonstrate the writer’s thoughts. Here, you are not just a researcher but a thinker with a developed opinion based on an in-depth analysis of the issue.

Students encounter the task of writing an expository essay throughout their entire educational journey. They write it in college and repeatedly encounter this assignment in higher schools and institutes. Thanks to this task, students learn to conduct research, draw conclusions, and express them in written form.

The goal is not only to gather information about the researched subject but also to analyze the information. The result is the deepening of the student’s theoretical and sometimes practical skills that will be useful in their future professional activities or, at the very least, broaden their horizons and understanding of the topic.

It is essential to collect and process information and present it correctly according to established rules, which students often find challenging. Therefore, below, we suggest familiarizing yourself with the primary stages of writing this academic work. 

If you want to find out how quickly and easily you can order a ready-made essay, you can do it here ibuyessay.com . Here you can receive professional help from those who appreciate quality. 

Structure of expository essay

Before starting, it is recommended to create a plan to outline the future flow of thoughts logically. Only after its composition can you proceed to formulate the beginning. The plan is based on gathering the main themes you intend to highlight and includes both main headings and subheadings. They can be presented as brief descriptions of the topic or in the form of posed questions. An ideal heading should be informative and concise. Under no circumstances should long sentences and judgments be used that will not be used in the text beneath them.

However, before creating a plan, attention should be paid to the rules of its writing . Here, determining the structure of the entire essay is essential. Coping with this task much faster will be facilitated by professionals at ibuyessay.com/expository.html , but you can also make use of the recommendations below.

The structure of the essay consists of 3 main elements:

  • Introduction – here, it is vital to formulate the work’s title, reflecting its main essence. A good choice would be to use a quote, ask a question, or emphasize a fact. At this stage, capturing the target audience’s attention and motivating them to study the work further is crucial.
  • Context and justification – at this stage, it is necessary to disclose the topic and justify its relevance. Quoting the thoughts of scholars, proving theorems, and other ways to reveal the features of the study, such as theses and explanations, are appropriate here.
  • Conclusion – conclude the work, repeating the central thesis and briefly reflecting on critical points. Ultimately, the target audience should not feel they missed something and forgot what was being discussed all this time.

The main snag of the plan is that each previous part should logically flow into the next one. For this, it is recommended to use smooth transitions between topics and summarize them with your conclusions. It is also appropriate to consider the opposite point of view without expressing your attitude towards it.

Once you have determined the layout of the future work, you can proceed to write its beginning .

How to write an expository essay introduction

Introduction – the first thing a teacher looks at. It should both attract attention and describe the background of your essay. Here, you can raise an issue or start with a thesis statement to prepare the ground for the central part of the work.

The tasks of the introduction are:

  • prepare for discussion;
  • highlight the relevance of the topic;
  • intrigue with the content.

Professionals recommend starting with a quote from famous scientists or writers or posing a rhetorical question. Ideally, the student can make a provocative statement capable of further discussion. If the essay’s task is to solve a current problem, you can use these. In 50% of the works, students prepare the reader for a discussion by indicating key aspects that will be considered in the course of the work.

With the introduction, we intrigue the target audience: the teacher and possibly another student who will use our essay as a reference to understand the topic. Once written, you can start writing the essay’s body, presenting theses, evidence, and explanations.

In the opening, each paragraph should present one idea, maintaining a logical connection with the essay’s first paragraph. Sometimes, providing statistical data with explanations and comparisons based on professional analysis is appropriate. Try to present the information not literally but by extracting critical points from processed materials and expressing them in your own words.

The final stage will be a logical conclusion to the text. Specific requirements are also imposed on it, which we will outline below.

Expository essay conclusion

This is the summary of the work. Here, you can mention the problem raised initially and then use quotes and excerpts to add a logical conclusion. We conclude and bring the results of the work back to its primary goal. It’s important not to copy everything literally but to rephrase the judgment in simple words, emphasizing the importance of the problem and possibly finding ways to solve it based on the works of scientists and specialists. Be sure to summarize the essay’s main points and refute commonly accepted judgments if any scientists, for example, presented opposing facts. Recalling some quotes or key expressions from your work at the final stage is good. It would be interesting if you end where you started, remembering the main question raised at the beginning.

Remember the logic. Do not use new information, but provide the result of your work so that the reader has no questions after studying the essay.

Also, distinguish the expository essay from other types of work. There should be no personal thoughts here – you are just studying the material and presenting it, always indicating references to the primary source in the text.

Interestingly, 65% of teachers report that they need to read the students’ work thoroughly but only look at the beginning, middle, and end. But even if this is not the case, it is recommended that more attention be paid to these parts of the essay. 

Now, you know how to write an essay correctly. Our recommendations will help you get a positive grade and make learning more manageable.

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Expository essay characteristics types with examples

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Expository essay

The  expository essay  is a type of text whose purpose is to explain, in a simple and brief way, a specific topic. Thanks to these qualities, they are widely used to expose subjects difficult to understand by the general public. Expository essay characteristics types

Fundamentally, expository essays are based on the presentation of data to explain a specific topic. For this reason, they must present verifiable information, from sources such as encyclopedias, scientific articles , and books. The use of these types of sources should give the essay greater credibility.

Since they are aimed at a wide audience, they must be totally clear and written in colloquial language . In addition, they must be structured in such a way that the reader feels an interest in the topic as it progresses through the text.

This is achieved by separating the paragraphs so that their intensity increases, reaching a conclusion that leaves the reader wanting to know more about the subject .

Characteristics of the expository essay

The main characteristics of an expository essay are:

The language used in descriptive essays should be colloquial.

Thanks to the wide variety of essays that exist, any subject can be dealt with in the text.

These types of texts are usually short, although there is no regulation on their length. Normally, the length of the text depends on the preferences of its author.

4-Text distribution and structure

An essay must be distributed, regardless of its length, in three parts: an introduction , a body or development and a conclusion .

5-They don’t give an opinion

Expository essays are used to present verifiable information, generally obtained from studies. They should not be confused with argumentative essays, the purpose of which is to express the author’s position on a topic.

6-For a wide audience

They are intended to be read by a wide audience and not necessarily an expert in the subject matter. For this reason, they are usually used for the dissemination of complicated topics, such as technological or scientific research , among others.

7-Voice and tone

They must maintain an objective and impersonal tone. It is recommended to avoid the use of the first person in the writing .

Structure of the expository essay

Although the expository essays are not internally divided with subtitles, they must have three well-defined parts, which are: Expository essay characteristics types

1-Introduction

As in all introductions, the main function of this part of the expository essay is to state the topic to be discussed in the body of the text. In addition, it has the specific task of presenting the essay to the reader.

Generally, it does not occupy more than one paragraph, which is why you should use a striking phrase at the beginning, in order to capture the attention of the reader and motivate him to continue reading the full text.

2-Body or development

It is the longest section of the text. Here, the subject treated in depth is exposed. Its length must have at least three paragraphs , although the number of these depends on the complexity of the topic to be developed.

Each paragraph should ideally contain a concept. That is why the use of connectors is essential to maintain a fluid reading . Also, the paragraphs should be organized in such a way that they increase in intensity and arouse greater interest in the reader, to achieve a transition to the conclusion of the essay.

3-Conclusion

It is the last section of the expository essay . Here the reader should be given a general perspective of the subject , allowing a subsequent analysis of it, and introducing insights, statements and concerns that prompt future questions on the subject. Usually it does not take up more than one paragraph .

Expository essay types

Within the expository essays you can find different types, such as:

1-Contrast and comparison test

This type of essay consists of the description of similarities or differences between what you want to compare or contrast. They are generally based on places, people or objects.

2-Definition test

Definition essays are used to explain or describe the meaning of some concept, word, or term. In this way, they can define abstract themes, such as beauty or anger; or specific topics, such as the characteristics of a mammal or a plant. Expository essay characteristics types

3-Problem and Solution Essay

This type of text is responsible for posing a problem, to later explore what the solutions could be for it. These solutions must be backed by data and verifiable facts.

4-Process test

As its name suggests, process tests fulfill the function of guiding the reader through the explanation of a procedure or a step by step, for the production of a product or the execution of a task.

5-Classification test

This type of expository essay seeks to divide an idea or extensive topic into groups or categories, in such a way as to facilitate the reading of the topic from the understanding of each category independently and interrelated with the others.

6-Cause and effect test

Commonly, a cause and effect essay is used to show how two events affect each other, that is, how one depends on the other, and vice versa. To achieve this, the relationship between the two events must be identified, describing why they happen and what the result is.

Expository essay example

This is followed by a short expository essay on technology. To explain the structure more precisely, the introduction, development and conclusion will be specified.

Effects of technology on man.

The changes introduced by technology in the way of life of people around the planet have both positive and negative impacts, which are shaping people’s lives. (  Introduction  ).

The fact of buying articles in a virtual way, communicating in real time with people who are in another continent, or advances in the field of medicine, have undoubtedly provided a better quality of life to people.

However, there are a large number of studies that show that the excessive use of technology generates diseases such as sedentary lifestyle, stress or anxiety , among others.

Added to this, the theft of personal data or identity forgery are some of the causes that put people’s safety at risk. (  Development  ).

In conclusion , technology is an important part of human life today and exists in almost all areas that it occupies. For this reason, the use made of it will determine what kind of effects it may have on the individual. (  Conclusion ). Expository essay characteristics types

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

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  3. What Is an Expository Essay? Examples and Guide

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  4. An Expert Guide to Create an Expository Essay Outline

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  1. Essay 18: THE EXPOSITORY ESSAY

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COMMENTS

  1. How to Write an Expository Essay

    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.

  2. Expository Essay Guide With Definition & Examples

    Write with Grammarly What is an expository essay? 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.

  3. Expository Writing: Definition and Examples

    Write with Grammarly What is expository writing? Expository writing is writing that aims to inform its reader. As we mentioned above, this includes all types of factual writing, like textbooks, news stories, technical guides, and pieces of business writing.

  4. 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.

  5. How To Write An Expository Essay

    An expository essay is a type of essay that seeks to inform, describe, or explain a particular subject or topic. It's distinct in its approach as it emphasizes presenting facts, analyzing information, and providing a comprehensive understanding without incorporating personal opinions or biases.

  6. 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.

  7. PDF Writing an Expository Essay

    1 Writing an Expository Essay Part 1 Essay structure and the introductory paragraph Part 2 Body paragraphs, concluding paragraphs, and outlining Part 3 Improving your work P a r t 1 Essay structure and the introductory paragraph Section 1 Essay structure An essay is a piece of writing made up of a number of paragraphs.

  8. The Four Main Types of Essay

    Argumentative and expository essays are focused on conveying information and making clear points, while narrative and descriptive essays are about exercising creativity and writing in an interesting way. At university level, argumentative essays are the most common type.

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

    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 ...

  10. How to Write an Expository Essay

    ( 17) Every student has to write an expository essay at least once in their educational career. These are actually fairly simple essays to write, but they do require some serious research skills. Like most academic essays, the expository essay requires formal writing with an introduction, body, and conclusion. Guide Overview

  11. Expository Writing: Definition and Examples

    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 ...

  12. How to Write an Expository Essay

    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 ...

  13. How To Write an Excellent Expository Essay: Expert Tips and Examples

    An expository essay asks for a critical explanation of a specific idea, theory, or topic. Our expert tips can help you write a well-structured and informative piece.

  14. What Is Expository Writing?

    It explains, informs, and describes. Types of 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.

  15. Expository Essays

    An expository essay has three parts: an introduction (with a thesis statement or argument), body paragraphs, and a conclusion that ties the main ideas of what has been said in the essay...

  16. How to write Excellent Expository Essays

    INTRODUCTION: MAIN BODY: EXPOSITORY PARAGRAPHS EXPOSITORY PARAGRAPH EXAMPLE EXPOSITORY CONCLUSION: FEATURES OF EXPOSITORY WRITING TITLE: CONTENTS: HEADINGS / SUBHEADINGS: GLOSSARY: INDEX: VISUAL FORMS OF INFORMATION EXPOSITORY ESSAY EXAMPLE EXPOSITORY WRITING PROMPTS FINAL THOUGHTS ESSAY WRITING CHECKLIST & RUBRIC BUNDLE

  17. A Comprehensive Guide to Writing Expository Essay

    The following are the steps that you should follow to write an impressive expository essay. 1. Choose an Engaging Topic. The first step is to decide on an expository essay topic. This step might sound easier, but it can be challenging for the students. Thus, your essay topic should fulfill all the basic requirements.

  18. Expository Text

    Activities What are the features of an expository text? There are a few key features that expository texts have. Some of these features are that an expository text has an educational...

  19. Mastering the Art of Expository Writing: A Comprehensive Guide to

    Introduction. Expository writing is a genre of discourse that aims to inform, explain, or describe a subject by presenting facts, evidence, and analysis in a clear, organized, and objective manner. In this article, we will explore this genre of writing and provide step-by-step tips for writing a good expository essay.. Let's get started with understanding what expository writing means!

  20. Expository Essay Examples For All Academic Levels

    Step 1. Choose an Appropriate Topic. Brainstorm different ideas to select a compelling expository essay topic. Check out our expository essay topics blog for inspiring ideas. Ensure it has the potential to turn into an informative essay by being able to explain and inform effectively.

  21. Features of writing an expository essay

    By Dyka Smith Share An expository essay is a description of a topic without presenting personal opinions. In this case, the author, who is a student, enumerates the obtained information, indicates its sources, and draws conclusions. The primary tone of the writing is informative and neutral.

  22. Expository essay characteristics types with examples

    Expository essay. The expository essay is a type of text whose purpose is to explain, in a simple and brief way, a specific topic. Thanks to these qualities, they are widely used to expose subjects difficult to understand by the general public. Expository essay characteristics types. Fundamentally, expository essays are based on the presentation of data to explain a specific topic.

  23. Characteristics of Expository Writing

    Characteristics of Expository Writing: • Descriptive: It is one of the main features of this essay. Science related writing needs a background description. However, description should be written ...