The Purpose Of An Expository Essay: 5 Basic Points

It's obviously important that you need to understand the nature of an expository essay. Its intention is to explain or analyse the topic using logic and reason. This is not an essay where you flaunt your academic knowledge and ability to carry out considerable research. This is a nuts and bolts, no nonsense exposition about a topic.

When you think about it an expository essay is a basic piece of writing. It is simple to understand and when read should be simple to follow. Perhaps there I should have said when it is well written it will be simple to follow. But don't be fooled by its definition. These types of essay are not necessarily easy. And to make sure you are successful here are five basic points.

• stick to the basic structure of five paragraphs
• expository writing is used in so many aspects of life
• use brainstorming to kick start your writing
• the topic sentence or thesis statement is the basis of your essay
• avoid bias and support your claims

The vast majority of expository essays consist of an introduction, three fact paragraphs and a conclusion. Unless your teacher or lecturer advises otherwise, this is a basic structural formula you should follow. You are not there is re-invent the wheel.

Expository essays and the skills used to create them can be applied to so many other aspects of life and academic study. Done well you can achieve success academically but the skills carry forward into later life. Remember this and apply all of your previous learning tips.

Brainstorming is an excellent way to approach the creation of an expository essay. Learn how to write every thought and then to carefully select those which are relevant and support your case in the essay.

The topic sentence will define whatever else you write on the subject. Get that right and the rest should follow logically. Be prepared to spend quite some time on this most important piece of writing. What follows will be so much easier.

Of course you are being asked to reveal information and to form an opinion on that information but you should always avoid bias. The best way to do that is to ensure that all the factual statements you make are able to be supported by solid evidence. Examiners are impressed by logic and solid evidence.