What Is an Expository Essay and How to Do It Well?

Expository essays are designed to convey a meaning of a certain topic in a logical and straightforward manner. Unlike descriptive essays which rely greatly on an emotional aspect of perception, this project is all about analyzing facts and presenting logically coherent information about a particular object.

When trying to figure out expository essay prompts and outline basics, keep in mind that this type of composition aims to explain and define an object or event using strong evidence base, quotes and careful analysis of available facts.

According to a definition, this paper type is of paramount importance for people engaged in all types of professional careers from IT experts to doctors, from writers to accountants, and from journalists to police detectives. Analytical and critical thinking are crucial for adults because otherwise you’ll be unable to understand the world around us and events which take place. Cutting to the chase of something using analytical skills is always a great plus in a portfolio of any professional. Therefore, treat expository essay writing with some great attention it rightfully deserves.

Expository essay definition of quality writing

Just like any other essay, an expository one consists of five complex paragraphs. The first paragraph is your Introduction having a Hook, which grabs reader’s attention by the horns, and the Thesis statement, which outlines the main topic, purpose and objectives of your paper.

The next three paragraphs are the Main body. Each of the three paragraphs contains a focal sentence – an argument or claim supporting your point of view, as well as logical pieces of evidence which show readers your arguments are valid.

And finally, the fifth paragraph is your Conclusion drawing up the bottom line of your entire analysis. If you have any ace argument up your sleeve, Conclusion is the place to reveal it. Apart from an expository essay outline structure, you also have to keep in mind the following notions:

  • Write in the third person singular
  • Avoid emotions, focusing on logics and facts
  • Stylistic devices must be used with caution
  • Provide proven details and information
  • Cut out any milk-and-water phrases, bogus arguments and unchecked conclusions
  • Analysis and topic research come first, and then comes gathering proper data, and only then comes writing
  • When stuck, get a reference paper to consult and move on with your own work

Picking proper expository essay topics

You’ve already learnt what is a quality expository essay, so now it’s time to get to know how solid expository topics look like. As a matter of fact, there’s nothing hard about them. Most topics start with such words as ‘Describe’ and ‘Explain’. Plus, sometimes you will see such word as ‘Prove’ at the beginning of each topic. Now, let’s take a look at some of the examples:

  • Describe how kids from broken families become bullies
  • Explain why global warming is a matter of such great concern
  • Explain why the Bold Eagle is one of the symbols of the United States
  • Describe the things which make you happy/sad
  • Prove why getting a part-time job is important
  • Prove the United States is the strongest world’s economy
  • Explain how vehicles cause to air pollution

Download free expository essay examples

Preparing for writing, you might normally find yourself in a writer’s block. But there’s nothing strange about it, critical and analytical thinking is much more difficult to master than descriptive and narrative, especially if you’re a student in Humanities.

With this in mind, you might want to download a free writing sample at our site to consult, pick up some hints and ideas related to how you should move on with your paper. Since you’ll be using such paper for reference needs only, such move is in no way considered cheating that’s why you can rely on it freely.