An expository essay is a type of academic essay that follows a specific structure, designed to present factual information in a clear and logical way.^1,2 This type of essay is often used in business writing, scientific writing and journalism.¹

 

The purpose of expository essays

An expository essay is meant to present the reader with a clear, balanced view of a certain subject. The writing should be objective or neutral – it is not intended to give the writer’s personal opinion or feelings about the subject.^1-3

 

Research is an important part of expository essay writing, as you will need to understand your topic thoroughly and use facts and figures to back up the information you’re presenting.^1-3

 

Rather than trying to prove a point or express your opinion, your goal when writing an expository essay is to present complex information in clearly and logically.^1-3

 

Did You Know? The word “expository” is defined as “intended to explain or describe something”.³

 

 

Types of expository essays

Just as there are different ways of conveying information effectively, there are ways you can present your information in your expository essay. The essay sub-type you use will depend on the writing prompt (the topic/s you are asked to discuss).

 

Here are the most common types of expository essays you might come across in your line of work or study:^1-3

 

• Cause and effect: A cause and effect essay type requires you to explain why something occurred and what happened because of it.

 

• Compare and contrast: For a compare and contrast essay (also called a comparison essay), you will be asked to compare 2 ideas or subjects and explain their differences and similarities to the reader.

 

• Process: A process essay (also called a how-to essay) guides the reader through a step-by-step process or procedure. The goal of this essay is to teach the reader how to do something.

 

• Descriptive: A descriptive essay type requires you to write up a detailed description or explanation of a subject, such as a place, event, person or object. (Not to be confused with creative descriptive essay writing).

 

• Problem and solution: A problem and solution essay is one where you describe a specific problem and provide a thorough explanation of potential solutions to the problem.

 

Structuring an expository essay

Expository essays follow the same overall structure as most other essay types. You need to start off with an introductory paragraph, followed by several body paragraphs (usually 3 to 5), and finish with a conclusion paragraph.^1-3

 

• Introduction: This paragraph presents your main idea, or thesis. Start with a sentence that makes a strong statement to catch the reader’s attention (this is known as a “hook”). Then add 1-2 sentences of relevant background information.

 

• Body: The body of your essay should justify the statement you made in your introduction. Start each body paragraph with a “topic sentence” that tells the reader what you’ll be discussing in that paragraph. Then provide detailed facts and information about the topic. Then, write a “transition” sentence that takes your reader smoothly on to the next paragraph (i.e., the next topic).

 

• Conclusion: To close off your essay, you need to summarise the topic you’ve discussed above. You cannot introduce any new information in your conclusion paragraph. You need to reinforce the thesis you’ve presented and round off the essay so that it feels complete.

Important to remember: There are 5 key components to remember when writing an expository essay.⁴

 

1. Organisation: Your essay must follow a logical sequence.
2. Evidence: Throughout your essay, you need to support your thesis with evidence and examples.
3. Thesis and subtopics: Start your essay by stating your thesis and start each paragraph with a subtopic that supports it.
4. Transitions: Use transition sentences to shift from one paragraph to the next.
5. Conclusion: Reinforce your thesis at the end of your essay.

 

Always proofread and edit your essay before you submit it. This will allow you to correct any spelling or grammar errors and confirm that your evidence is accurate.

 

You can find examples of expository writing online.

 

Read more about the different types of essay here.

 

References

1. How to write an expository essay in 5 steps. 2020. https://www.masterclass.com/articles/how-to-write-an-expository-essay#how-to-write-an-expository-essay
2. Expository essays: A complete guide. https://www.grammarly.com/blog/expository-essay/
3. Scribbr – Knowledge Base. How to write an expository essay | structure, tips & examples. 2020. https://www.scribbr.com/academic-essay/descriptive-essay/
4. Melina Glaros. 5 Elements of an expository essay. 2012. https://www.slideserve.com/melina/5-elements-of-an-expository-essay