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

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

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

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

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Table of contents

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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5 Expository Essay Examples (Full Text with Citations)

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An expository essay attempts to explain a topic in-depth, demonstrating expert knowledge and understanding.

This form of essay is structured around the clear, factual presentation of information, devoid of the writer’s personal opinions or arguments.

The primary goal is to inform or explain rather than persuade.

Unlike an argumentative essay, which is built around defending a particular point of view with evidence and persuasion, an expository essay maintains a neutral stance, focusing on delivering straightforward facts and explanations.

An example of expository writing could be an article explaining the process of photosynthesis.

The article would systematically describe each stage of how plants convert sunlight into energy, detailing the role of sunlight, water, and carbon dioxide.

It would explain the sequence of reactions – first, second, third, fourth, fifth – that occur and the importance of each step in supporting the life of the plant.

An expository essay generally follows this essay format:

• A) To persuade the reader to adopt a particular viewpoint
• B) To inform or explain a topic clearly
• C) To present the writer’s personal opinions and arguments
• D) To entertain the reader with creative writing
• A) An expository essay uses creative storytelling techniques
• B) An expository essay remains neutral and avoids personal opinions
• C) An expository essay focuses on persuading the reader with evidence
• D) An expository essay prioritizes the writer’s personal experiences

Expository Essay Examples

#1 impacts of technology on education.

955 words | 4 Pages | 15 References

Thesis Statement: “The integration of technology in education represents a complex and critical area of study crucial for understanding and shaping the future of educational practices.”

#2 Impacts of Globalization on Education

1450 words | 5 Pages | 9 References

Thesis Statement: “This essay examines the profound and multifaceted effects of globalization on education, exploring how technological advancements and policy reforms have transformed access to, delivery of, and perceptions of education.”

#3 The Role of Emotional Intelligence in Interpersonal Relationships

1211 Words | 5 Pages | 22 References

Thesis Statement: “The central thesis is that EI, defined as the ability to perceive, understand, and manage emotions, is a crucial determinant of success and well-being.”

#4 The Future of Renewable Energy Sources and Their Impact

870 words | 4 Pages | 20 References

Thesis Statement: “The essay posits that although renewable energy sources hold immense promise for a sustainable future, their full integration into the global energy grid presents significant challenges that must be addressed through technological innovation, economic investment, and policy initiatives.”

#5 The Psychology Behind Consumer Behavior

1053 words | 4 Pages | 17 References

Thesis Statement: “The thesis of this essay is that consumer behavior is not merely a product of rational decision-making; it is deeply rooted in psychological processes, both conscious and subconscious, that drive consumers’ choices and actions.”

How to Write an Expository Essay

Unlike argumentative or persuasive essays, expository essays do not aim to convince the reader of a particular point of view.

Instead, they focus on providing a balanced and thorough explanation of a subject.

Key characteristics of an expository essay include:

• Clarity and Conciseness
• Structured Organization (Introduction, Body, Conclusion)
• Objective Tone
• Evidence-Based (Cite academic sources in every body paragraph)
• Objective thesis statement (see below)
• Informative purpose (Not argumentative)

You can follow my expository essay templates with AI prompts to help guide you through the expository essay writing process:

How to write a Thesis Statement for an Expository Essay

An expository thesis statement doesn’t make an argument or try to persuade. It uses ‘is’ rather than ‘ought’ statements.

Take these comparisons  below. Note how the expository thesis statements don’t prosecute an argument or attempt to persuade, while the argumentative thesis statements clearly take a side on an issue:

💡 AI Prompt for Generating Sample Expository Thesis Statements An expository essay’s thesis statement should be objective rather than argumentative. Write me five broad expository thesis statement ideas on the topic “[TOPIC]”.

Go Deeper: 101 Thesis Statement Examples

Differences Between Expository and Argumentative Essays

Expository and argumentative essays are both common writing styles in academic and professional contexts, but they serve different purposes and follow different structures.

Here are the key differences between them:

• Expository Essay : The primary purpose is to explain, describe, or inform about a topic. It focuses on clarifying a subject or process, providing understanding and insight.
• Argumentative Essay : The goal is to persuade the reader to accept a particular point of view or to take a specific action. It’s about presenting a stance and supporting it with evidence and logic.
• Expository Essay : It maintains a neutral and objective tone. The writer presents information factually and impartially, without expressing personal opinions or biases.
• Argumentative Essay : It often adopts a more assertive, persuasive, and subjective tone. The writer takes a clear position and argues in favor of it, using persuasive language.
• Expository Essay : The reader is expected to gain knowledge, understand a process, or become informed about a topic. There’s no expectation for the reader to agree or disagree.
• Argumentative Essay : The reader is encouraged to consider the writer’s viewpoint, evaluate arguments, and possibly be persuaded to adopt a new perspective or take action.

Go Deeper: Expository vs Argumentative Essays

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Expository Essays

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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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How to Write an Expository Essay

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• 29th March 2020

An expository essay explains something. This means investigating an idea, looking at evidence, coming to a conclusion, and explaining your thinking. But how do you write a strong expository essay? Our top tips include:

• Read the essay prompt carefully and using it to guide your research.
• Come up with a thesis statement (i.e., a position that you’ll explain).
• Plan the structure of your essay before you start writing.
• Once you have a first draft, revise and proofread to make sure it is perfect.

For more advice on how this works, check out the guide below.

1. Read Your Essay Prompt

Most expository essay prompts will ask you to do one of the following:

• Define and explain a concept or theory.
• Compare and contrast two ideas.
• Examine a problem and propose a solution.
• Describe a cause and effect relationship.
• Explain a step-by-step process.
• Analyze a broad subject and classify examples into groups.

When you’ve been set an expository assignment, then, check the prompt or question carefully. You can use the phrasing to guide your research. You may also need to select a topic to write about. If so, try to think of something:

• You already know at least something about.
• You find interesting enough to research.
• That fits with the instructions in the essay prompt (e.g., if you’ve been asked to contrast two things, you’ll need a topic that allows for a comparison).
• That is narrow enough to discuss in one essay.

Start by brainstorming topics, then narrow it down to one or two ideas.

2. Come Up with a Thesis Statement

Once you have a topic, you’ll need to do some research and develop a thesis statement. This is the proposition or position that you’ll explain in your essay.

Your thesis statement should be something you can back up with evidence and facts, as well as something that answers the question in your essay prompt. Keep in mind, too, that an expository essay should present a balanced account of the facts available, not personal opinions. For instance, we’ve come up with thesis statements for a few example essay prompts:

When you’ve selected a thesis, make sure you’ve got evidence to back it up! This may mean doing a little more research before you start writing.

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3. Structuring an Expository Essay

The exact length and content of your essay will depend on the topic and prompt. However, most expository essays follow a similar basic structure:

• Introduction – A paragraph where you introduce the essay topic and your thesis statement (i.e., the issue or idea you will explain in the essay).
• Main Body – A series of short paragraphs in which you explain your thesis statement, providing evidence and arguments to support each point.
• Conclusion – A final paragraph where you restate your thesis and how your evidence supports this. Try not to introduce any new information here (if it’s important, it should go in the main body).
• References – If required, include a bibliography of sources you’ve used.

Before you start writing, then, create an essay outline with the structure above in mind and plan what each paragraph will say.

4. Editing and Proofreading

When you have a first draft, take a break and re-read it. Now comes the redrafting ! This is where you go back over your essay and look for areas to improve. Do you provide enough evidence? Is your argument clear? Even a few tweaks may increase your mark, so make sure to redraft at least once!

Finally, make sure to have your essay proofread before you submit it for marking. This will ensure your writing is error free and easy to read, giving you an even better chance of getting the grades you deserve.

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A comprehensive guide to crafting a well-written expository essay.

Expository essays are a common assignment in academic settings, requiring students to investigate an idea, evaluate evidence, and present a coherent argument. Crafting a stellar expository essay involves careful planning, research, and clear writing. Here are some essential tips to help you excel in your expository writing:

1. Choose a compelling topic: Select a topic that interests you and has enough relevant information to support your argument. Avoid broad topics and narrow down your focus to a specific aspect of the subject.

2. Conduct thorough research: Gather credible sources and evidence to back up your claims. Take notes, highlight key points, and organize your research to ensure a logical flow in your essay.

3. Develop a strong thesis statement: Your thesis should clearly state the main argument of your essay and provide a roadmap for the reader. Make sure it is specific, debatable, and supported by evidence.

Effective Strategies for Writing

Writing an expository essay requires careful planning and organization. Here are some effective strategies to help you craft a stellar essay:

• Start by brainstorming ideas and creating an outline. This will help you structure your essay and ensure that you cover all the necessary points.
• Use clear and concise language. Avoid using overly complex words or phrases that may confuse your readers.
• Provide ample evidence to support your arguments. Use reliable sources and cite them properly to back up your claims.
• Make sure to follow the proper essay format, including an introduction, body paragraphs, and a conclusion.
• Edit and proofread your essay carefully to eliminate any errors in grammar, punctuation, or spelling.

By following these strategies, you can create a compelling and well-structured expository essay that will impress your readers.

Analyze the Prompt Thoroughly

Before diving into writing your expository essay, it’s crucial to thoroughly analyze the prompt given. Take the time to understand the requirements and expectations outlined in the prompt. Pay attention to key words and phrases that indicate the specific focus of the essay, such as “explain,” “analyze,” “compare,” or “contrast.”

Make sure to identify any guidelines regarding the structure, length, and formatting of the essay. Understanding the prompt will help you tailor your writing to meet the specific criteria and ensure that your essay addresses the topic effectively.

Create an outline or plan based on the prompt to organize your thoughts and approach. This will guide you through the writing process and help you stay on track while developing a well-structured and coherent essay.

Develop a Clear Thesis Statement

A strong expository essay starts with a clear and concise thesis statement. Your thesis statement should clearly state the main argument or point you will be discussing throughout the essay. It acts as a roadmap for your readers, guiding them on what to expect and informing them about the main focus of your essay.

When developing your thesis statement, make sure it is specific, debatable, and focused. Avoid broad statements that lack clarity or detail. Instead, choose a narrow topic and make a claim that can be supported with evidence and analysis. Your thesis statement should be the foundation of your essay, so take the time to craft a well-structured and compelling statement that sets the tone for the rest of your writing.

Organize Your Ideas logically

When crafting an expository essay, it is crucial to organize your ideas in a logical and structured manner. Start by outlining your main points and subpoints to create a clear roadmap for your readers. Use transitions to smoothly guide your audience from one idea to the next, ensuring a coherent flow of information.

Consider using a traditional structure such as the five-paragraph essay format, with an introduction, body paragraphs, and a conclusion. This format helps you maintain a clear and organized presentation of your ideas, making it easier for readers to follow your argument and understand your points.

Use Proper Evidence and Examples

One of the key elements of a stellar expository essay is the use of proper evidence and examples to support your ideas. Ensure that the evidence you choose is relevant, reliable, and directly connects to the topic you are discussing. This will help strengthen your arguments and provide credibility to your essay.

When including examples in your essay, make sure they are clear, concise, and effectively illustrate your point. Avoid using vague or generic examples that do not add value to your argument. Instead, opt for specific examples that are insightful and help the reader understand the concepts you are presenting.

Remember to cite your sources properly when including evidence in your essay. This adds credibility to your work and shows that you have conducted thorough research to support your claims. By using proper evidence and examples, you can craft a compelling and well-supported expository essay that engages your audience and effectively conveys your message.

Revise and Edit Your Essay

Once you have completed your expository essay, it’s crucial to go back and revise it to ensure clarity and coherence. Here are some tips for effectively revising and editing your work:

• Read through your essay slowly and carefully to catch any grammatical or spelling errors.
• Check the flow of your ideas and make sure they are logically organized.
• Look for any repetitive or redundant sentences and remove them to improve conciseness.
• Ensure that your thesis statement is clear and is well-supported throughout your essay.
• Consider the overall structure of your essay and make sure each paragraph flows smoothly into the next.

After revising, it’s also important to edit your essay for style, tone, and word choice. Make sure your writing is clear, concise, and engaging for your readers. Consider seeking feedback from a peer or instructor to get a fresh perspective on your work. By thoroughly revising and editing your expository essay, you can ensure that it is polished and ready for submission.

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The term “expository” refers to expounding on, or elaborating on a topic. Hence, the main goal of an expository essay is to provide factual information on a particular subject. Although writing an engaging essay is definitely a plus, it is secondary. The main goal of writing an expository essay is to educate. 

An expository essay is a relatively unbiased piece of writing that explores a topic from all angles. In this article, we will explore the meaning of an expository essay and how to write one with the help of a few expository essay examples. Let’s take a look.

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What is an expository essay?

An expository essay is an unbiased, factual piece of writing that provides an in-depth explanation of a topic or set of ideas. It aims to explain a topic from all angles and takes no decisive stance on it.

Expository essays make no new arguments on a topic but rather explain preexisting information in a structured format. They are mainly used in assignments or exams to test the student’s knowledge of a subject. 

However, the expository essay definition remains incomplete without understanding the different types of expository essays. An “expository essay” is an umbrella term used to describe different types of essays. These essays include classification essays, definition essays, process essays, compare and contrast essays, and cause-and-effect essays.

Now that we’ve understood what is an expository essay, let’s look at its types.

1. Classification essay

A classification essay aims to group objects into distinct categories. It also involves comparing objects within the same group and highlighting their similarities and differences. For example, if the essay topic is evergreen trees, it would explore different types like pine and fir and discuss the similarities and differences between them.

2. Definition essay

A definition essay aims to provide a comprehensive explanation of a particular topic. As the name implies, the main goal is to define the subject matter in detail. So if you were writing a definition essay on the Victorian era, you would begin by defining the historical period. Then, you would move on to describe the cultural aspects such as fashion styles, notable figures, and societal norms that characterized that period.

3. Process essay

A process essay is a step-by-step guide to performing a particular task. It follows a logical, chronological order of detailed steps on how to achieve a desired outcome. For instance, if you want to write a process essay on “how to make a paper airplane” you will provide a step-by-step chronological guide on how to fold the paper in different ways to create the airplane. 

4. Compare and contrast essay

A compare and contrast essay aims to point out the subtle differences or unexpected similarities between two or more subjects. For instance, a compare and contrast essay about the types of ramen served in different parts of Japan may include the differences and similarities in the broth, ingredients used, types of noodles, and flavor profiles in each of them. 

5. Cause and effect essay

A cause-and-effect essay seeks to explore the aftermath of a specific incident. So a cause-and-effect essay on the Himalayan mountain range may analyze the movement of the tectonic plates that led to the formation of the Himalayas.

Now that we’ve fully understood what’s an expository essay let’s understand its structure.

Expository essay structure

An expository essay is written in the third person and the expository essay format, like any other essay format, consists of an introduction, body paragraphs, and a conclusion. There is no limit on the length of your essay unless instructed by your teacher or professor. 

The expository essay format typically consists of one paragraph for the introduction and conclusion and three paragraphs for the body. But you can add additional body paragraphs depending on the scope of your topic. Here’s the expository essay paragraph structure:

1. Introduction

The purpose of an introduction is to acquaint your reader with‌ your topic or thesis statement. It also involves using engaging information and a relevant context to captivate the reader.

The thesis statement for an expository essay should be unbiased and should aim to provide the reader with more information on a topic. Here’s an example of an introductory paragraph for an expository essay:

• Background information
• Thesis statement

The Victorian era, spanning from 1837 to 1901, left an indelible mark on English society. With its strict expectations governing everything from fashion to employment, it was known to be a conservative society. But amidst the rigidity, the period also saw remarkable progress in industry, technology, and science. It’s a time of paradox, where tradition and innovation coexisted. In this essay, we’ll delve into the fascinating complexities of the Victorian era and how they shaped English society for generations to come.

2. Body paragraph

After understanding how to start an expository essay the next step is to construct substantial body paragraphs. Each body paragraph in an expository essay consists of a topic sentence, its explanation, and a transition statement. A single idea should be introduced in each paragraph. 

These ideas can be arranged chronologically, in the order of importance, or even in a random manner, depending on the purpose and the message of your essay. For instance, a step-by-step guide will always be written chronologically, from the first to the final step.  Let’s take a look at an example of a body paragraph for an expository essay.

• Topic sentence
• Explanation
• Transition statement

During the Victorian era, the social hierarchy was rigid, with the aristocracy and landed gentry holding most of the power, wealth, and privilege . Shockingly, the upper class comprised only 0.7% of the population, yet dominated England’s resources and politics. Meanwhile, the working class, who made up the majority of society, faced harsh living and working conditions and had limited opportunities for upward mobility. Working-class men in industrial cities had an average life expectancy of just 16 years. Despite these challenges, the Victorian era also saw a growing movement towards social reform, such as the National Health Service and Factory Act, aimed at improving the working class’s quality of life. Although the oppressive social hierarchy was highly apparent, the Victorian era represented a time of progress and change in England for many.

3. Conclusion

The purpose of the conclusion is to tie up loose ends and to provide a short summary of your essay. End your essay with a strong, meaningful statement that leaves a lasting impression. This helps reinforce the significance of your thesis statement to the reader.

The conclusion should introduce no new information but rather focus on the broader impact and applications of your topic and central idea. Here’s an example of a concluding paragraph for an expository essay.

• Updated thesis statement
• Brief overview
• Concluding statement

The Victorian era brought about significant changes in society, culture, and technology, including the rise of the middle class, the expansion of the British Empire, the emergence of new literary and artistic movements, and the advancement of science and technology. Despite its flaws, it laid the foundation for modern society and continues to impact contemporary culture. This essay explored the Victorian era’s impact on literature, social norms, and technological advancements, providing a comprehensive overview of this era’s influence on society and culture. Overall, the Victorian era’s legacy continues to shape our world today.

Now that we’re familiar with the structure of an expository essay, let’s understand how to write it.

How to write an expository essay  

Although an essay is a highly versatile piece of writing, it follows the same basic steps. This involves choosing a relevant topic, crafting a clear thesis statement, creating a structured outline, and writing and revising your essay. Here are some simple steps to write an expository essay.

1. Choose an appropriate topic

An expository essay is based on accurate facts and information, so it makes sense to choose a topic you’re already familiar with. This will not only make the research process much easier but will also help you approach your topic in depth.

2. Craft the thesis statement

Create an interesting and succinct thesis statement that you can expound on. A thesis statement that is both intriguing and clear creates a strong foundation for your essay.

3. Create an essay outline

You can better understand how to structure your expository essay by constructing an outline.

An outline not only provides flow to your essay but also serves as a base to fall back on when in doubt. It is created by constructing relevant topic sentences that support your thesis statement and arranging them in a logical order. 

4. Write the first draft

Once you have created the outline, the next step is to flesh it out and start writing your essay. Make sure that you use reliable sources of information and accurately cite them during your writing process.

5. Revise and proofread 

After the first draft of your essay is complete, make sure to proofread it and revise any structural, grammatical, or factual inconsistencies. If you have the option, it always helps to hire essay editing services that can handle this crucial task for you.

Expository essay outline 

Before embarking on your essay writing journey, make sure that you have a solid base to fall back on. This can be done by creating a comprehensive expository essay outline with a detailed thesis statement, relevant topic sentences, and supporting bits of information. 

Here’s an example of an expository essay outline on the impact of the wheel on modern-day technology: 

The Impact of the Wheel on Modern-Day Technology

I. Introduction

A. Hook: An interesting fact or a historical anecdote about the invention of the wheel

B. Context: The significance of the wheel in ancient times

C. Thesis statement: The wheel has been a crucial invention that has influenced modern-day technology in various fields.

II. History and Evolution of the Wheel

A. Origin and early uses of the wheel

B. Development of the wheel and axle

C. Role of the wheel in ancient civilizations, such as Mesopotamia, China, and Egypt

D. The role of the wheel in the Industrial Revolution

III. The Influence of the Wheel on Transportation Technology

A. The invention of the modern-day car and its components

B. The development of airplanes and trains

C. The influence of the wheel on space exploration

IV. The Influence of the Wheel on Manufacturing Technology

A. The role of wheels and conveyors in modern factories

B. The use of wheels in heavy machinery and equipment

C. The influence of the wheel in assembly line production

V. The Influence of the Wheel on Everyday Technology

A. The role of the wheel in household appliances and gadgets

B. The use of wheels in sporting equipment and toys

C. The influence of the wheel on modern-day robotics

VI. Conclusion

A. Restate thesis statement

B. Summarize the main points of the essay

C. Final thoughts: The significance of the wheel on modern-day technology

D. Call to action or recommendation for further research or action

Expository essay example

To help you in your writing process, we’ve provided a comprehensive expository essay example. It discusses the impact of Shakespeare’s work on modern-day literature. This expository essay sample deviates from the original five-paragraph structure and consists of an introductory paragraph, four body paragraphs, and a concluding paragraph.

Influence of Shakespeare on Modern-Day Literature

William Shakespeare is widely regarded as one of the greatest playwrights in the history of English literature. His works have had a significant influence on modern-day literature, and his plays continue to be performed and adapted into various forms, including films, television shows, and novels. In this essay, we will explore the influence of Shakespeare on modern-day literature.

Shakespeare’s influence on the English language cannot be overstated. He is credited with the invention of over 1,700 words and phrases, including “eyeball,” “fashionable,” “addiction,” and “bedazzled,” to name a few. His writing style, characterized by poetic language, rich imagery, and powerful themes, has inspired countless writers and poets over the centuries. Many writers have attempted to imitate his style or use his works as a reference for their writing.

Moreover, Shakespeare’s plays, which were written over 400 years ago, still resonate with audiences today. His exploration of universal themes such as love, jealousy, power, and ambition, continues to captivate readers and audiences worldwide. The characters in his plays, such as Romeo and Juliet , Hamlet , Macbeth , and Othello , are iconic and have become part of our cultural heritage.

As a result, today’s media and entertainment have been heavily influenced by Shakespeare’s works. Many writers have adapted his plays into modern settings, retelling the stories in contemporary contexts. For example, the musical West Side Story , which is based on Romeo and Juliet , is set in 1950s New York City, while the film 10 Things I Hate About You is a modern retelling of The Taming of the Shrew .

Shakespeare’s influence is not only evident in media but also in the language and themes used in modern literature. His exploration of human nature and the human condition has inspired many writers to delve deeper into the human psyche, exploring complex emotions and motivations. His use of metaphors, symbolism, and imagery has become a hallmark of literary writing, inspiring many writers to use similar techniques in their works.

In conclusion, William Shakespeare’s influence on modern-day literature cannot be overstated. His works continue to be read and performed, inspiring writers and artists around the world. His use of language, themes, and characters has become part of our cultural heritage and continues to shape how we view the world. Shakespeare’s impact on modern-day literature is a testament to his enduring legacy as one of the greatest writers of all time.

Now that you have clarity about expository essays, you can use this information to write expository essays. As providers of essay editing services , we realize that you may also have doubts about other types of essays like narrative essays, argumentative essays, and more.

Keep reading with more resources from your loyal editors and proofreaders:

• Narrative Essay | Step-by-Step Guide with Examples
• 8 Types of Essays | Quick Summary with Examples
• How to Write an Essay in 8 Simple Steps (Examples Included)
• What Is an Essay? Structure, Parts, and Types
• How to Write an Argumentative Essay with Examples

Frequently Asked Questions

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How to Write a Solid Thesis Statement

The important sentence expresses your central assertion or argument

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

A thesis statement provides the foundation for your entire research paper or essay. This statement is the central assertion that you want to express in your essay. A successful thesis statement is one that is made up of one or two sentences clearly laying out your central idea and expressing an informed, reasoned answer to your research question.

Usually, the thesis statement will appear at the end of the first paragraph of your paper. There are a few different types, and the content of your thesis statement will depend upon the type of paper you’re writing.

Key Takeaways: Writing a Thesis Statement

• A thesis statement gives your reader a preview of your paper's content by laying out your central idea and expressing an informed, reasoned answer to your research question.
• Thesis statements will vary depending on the type of paper you are writing, such as an expository essay, argument paper, or analytical essay.
• Before creating a thesis statement, determine whether you are defending a stance, giving an overview of an event, object, or process, or analyzing your subject

Expository Essay Thesis Statement Examples

An expository essay "exposes" the reader to a new topic; it informs the reader with details, descriptions, or explanations of a subject. If you are writing an expository essay , your thesis statement should explain to the reader what she will learn in your essay. For example:

• The United States spends more money on its military budget than all the industrialized nations combined.
• Gun-related homicides and suicides are increasing after years of decline.
• Hate crimes have increased three years in a row, according to the FBI.
• Post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) increases the risk of stroke and arterial fibrillation (irregular heartbeat).

These statements provide a statement of fact about the topic (not just opinion) but leave the door open for you to elaborate with plenty of details. In an expository essay, you don't need to develop an argument or prove anything; you only need to understand your topic and present it in a logical manner. A good thesis statement in an expository essay always leaves the reader wanting more details.

Types of Thesis Statements

Before creating a thesis statement, it's important to ask a few basic questions, which will help you determine the kind of essay or paper you plan to create:

• Are you defending a stance in a controversial essay ?
• Are you simply giving an overview or describing an event, object, or process?
• Are you conducting an analysis of an event, object, or process?

In every thesis statement , you will give the reader a preview of your paper's content, but the message will differ a little depending on the essay type .

Argument Thesis Statement Examples

If you have been instructed to take a stance on one side of a controversial issue, you will need to write an argument essay . Your thesis statement should express the stance you are taking and may give the reader a preview or a hint of your evidence. The thesis of an argument essay could look something like the following:

• Self-driving cars are too dangerous and should be banned from the roadways.
• The exploration of outer space is a waste of money; instead, funds should go toward solving issues on Earth, such as poverty, hunger, global warming, and traffic congestion.
• The U.S. must crack down on illegal immigration.
• Street cameras and street-view maps have led to a total loss of privacy in the United States and elsewhere.

These thesis statements are effective because they offer opinions that can be supported by evidence. If you are writing an argument essay, you can craft your own thesis around the structure of the statements above.

Analytical Essay Thesis Statement Examples

In an analytical essay assignment, you will be expected to break down a topic, process, or object in order to observe and analyze your subject piece by piece. Examples of a thesis statement for an analytical essay include:

• The criminal justice reform bill passed by the U.S. Senate in late 2018 (" The First Step Act ") aims to reduce prison sentences that disproportionately fall on nonwhite criminal defendants.
• The rise in populism and nationalism in the U.S. and European democracies has coincided with the decline of moderate and centrist parties that have dominated since WWII.
• Later-start school days increase student success for a variety of reasons.

Because the role of the thesis statement is to state the central message of your entire paper, it is important to revisit (and maybe rewrite) your thesis statement after the paper is written. In fact, it is quite normal for your message to change as you construct your paper.

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How to write an expository essay

Published September 27, 2020. Updated June 5, 2022.

Expository essay definition

An expository essay is a type of academic or research essay. An expository essay exposes information.

Overview of an expository essay

An expository essay is the traditional academic essay: you give information and analyze what it means. To write an effective expository essay, research needs to be conducted on the topic to find credible sources. Then, the findings should be presented along with their own analysis to explain the research and the connections between the sources. Every essay will have three parts: an introduction, a body, and a conclusion. The introduction part consists of a hook, background information, and a thesis statement. A typical expository essay should have at least three body paragraphs. The essay should be concluded by tying back to the thesis statement (in the introduction). Then, the main parts of the essay should be summarized. Since the body paragraphs of an expository essay need to include analysis as well as information, the MEAL plan is one way to organize them. MEAL stands for M ain idea, E vidence, A nalysis, and L ink/ L ead out.

This page will cover the following points:

Key takeaways

What is an expository essay, parts of an essay, the meal plan.

• Essay outline
• Expository essay templates and examples
• An expository essay is also known as an academic essay or a research essay.
• It will take time to write an expository essay because you need to do research, see how the evidence from various sources fits together, and analyze your evidence.
• Outlines are helpful for seeing quickly and easily if you have enough information, how your ideas relate to each other, if your argument is logical, and if there are any gaps or irrelevant ideas.
• Use the MEAL plan to write the body paragraphs.
• Cite your sources!

Look at the word “expository.” Doesn’t it look like the word “expose”? Expository essays expose information. An expository essay is the traditional academic essay: you give information and analyze what it means. You may be asked to write an expository essay for many different types of classes, not just writing classes, and it is a valuable skill for many careers as well. To write an effective expository essay, you will need to conduct research on your topic to find credible sources, and then present your findings along with your own analysis to explain the research and the connections between sources.

Worried about your writing? Submit your paper for a Chegg Writing essay check , or for an Expert Check proofreading . Both can help you find and fix potential writing issues.

Before you begin writing, make sure to conduct thorough research on your topic and identify a variety of credible sources. Since the goal of an expository essay is to present and analyze the information you found, the tone of your essay should be objective and you should avoid the use of humor or emotion. Every essay you write will have three parts: an introduction, a body, and a conclusion.

Think of the organization of an essay like this:

• Intro – Tell your reader what you’re going to write about.
• Body – Write about it (using the MEAL plan).
• Conclusion – Tell them what you wrote about.

Let’s go through each of those parts for an expository essay. Each part will include a sample. The complete sample essay is available here .

Note: All sources for the evidence were linked in the sample essay. This is how online articles cite sources. However, this is not a proper academic citation method. When you write your own expository essay, make sure you know which citation method you are required to use.

Introduction

You want to begin your essay with a hook. A hook is an interesting opening that “catches” your reader’s attention and makes them want to read more. Your hook is usually the first sentence (or the first few sentences). You will begin your introduction with a general idea that is connected to your topic.

After you’ve hooked the reader, you want to give some context or background information. Your background information can include information from other sources. Make sure you cite them!

Think of each sentence in your intro as a stepping point. Each sentence brings you closer to your thesis statement.

Once you’ve given some context, write a thesis statement, which in an expository essay is called a claim.

Your claim must be arguable. In order to be arguable, your claim should not be a statement of fact, since you cannot argue with facts. It should also not just be your personal bias since everyone is entitled to their opinion. Rather, it should be an idea you came to after researching your topic.

Your claim tells the reader exactly what they’re going to read about. Think of it like a map to the rest of your essay.

Sample introduction

• In this sample, look at how the hook is written. Did the first several sentences get your attention?
• In which sentence is the main topic of the essay introduced?
• Are there sources in the introduction paragraph? How do you know?
• Can you see how each sentence in the introduction brings you closer to the thesis statement?
• Can you identify the thesis statement? What is the claim?

Do you believe you’re creative? Do you consider yourself athletic? What about musically inclined?  If not, do you think you could become those things? What if you worked really hard at them? Carol Dweck , an American psychologist who studied motivation in children, came up with the theory of fixed versus growth mindset. As this article explains, the concept is rather simple: there are children who believe that their abilities are innate. They are either smart or not, athletic or not, creative or not. That is fixed mindset. Then, there are children that believe that their abilities can be developed through hard work. That is growth mindset. In this article , Dweck states that children with a growth mindset tend to be more successful since they believe that hard work leads to mastery. Furthermore, Dweck claims that growth mindset can be taught, which leads to academic improvement. As logical and intuitive as this theory is, it is not without controversy. There are several criticisms directed at the theory and the studies that led to it, and this paper will examine some of them.

A typical expository essay should have at least three body paragraphs—fewer than three wouldn’t give you the space needed to put forth evidence for your claim and analyze it.  However, you can write as many paragraphs as you need (or as many as your teacher assigns you). Regardless of how many body paragraphs you have, they will all be organized in a similar manner. Make sure to cite any evidence you use from your sources, and either paraphrase information in your own words or include direct quotations to avoid plagiarizing. Once you have presented your evidence and appropriately cited it, it is important that you then explain your analysis of the evidence and connect it to the claim of your essay.

For more information on body paragraphs in expository essays, go to the MEAL plan section.

Sample body paragraph

Note: Due to length, only one sample body paragraph is included. The complete sample essay is available here.

• Can you identify the main idea (topic sentence)? Does it link to the claim? Is it in the writer’s own words?
• Can you identify which sentences are evidence and which are analysis?
• Can you identify a link or lead out?

The main criticism of Dweck’s research with mindset is that her findings are not replicable. According to this article and this article , Dweck’s main study showed drastic results when students were praised in a way that encouraged growth mindset. These drastic results raised red flags since psychological experiments tend to show very small results. Clearly, when a study claims significant results, the scientific community tries to replicate those results to further validate the findings. So far, this has not happened. This article describes another experiment that was conducted on growth mindset with a group of students from a low socioeconomic status school. The results actually showed that teaching growth mindset only benefitted students who were already academically advanced. In fact, for one of the other groups, teaching about growth mindset disadvantaged the highest performing students. The results from this particular experiment seem to directly contradict the results claimed by Dweck. With inconsistent results like these, the findings from Dweck’s studies are put into question.

This is how your essay ends and is the last impression your reader takes away.

Conclude your essay by tying back to your thesis statement (in the introduction). Then, summarize main points from your essay.

Since you are re-stating your claim and summarizing your findings, you are not including any new evidence. You do not need any citations in your conclusion. However, if you do introduce new evidence or include a quote taken from a source already mentioned, make sure you cite it.

If you want, end with a closing statement: an idea that you want your reader to walk away with.

Sample conclusion

• Can you identify the sentence that ties back to the thesis statement?
• Can you identify the summary of the main points?
• Can you identify a closing statement?

This essay explored some of the criticisms of a theory that caused quite a sensation when it was first published. Like any scientific discovery, experiments need to be replicated with similar results in order to confirm their validity. The more the study is replicated, the more the results are trusted. However, that has not happened with Dweck’s research. In addition, the techniques for developing growth mindset in students have been found to be problematic, with some teachers misunderstanding the steps needed. In some cases, this has resulted in unintended, negative consequences. Some students have performed worse when taught about growth mindset. This might be caused by students feeling less “special” by realizing that what made them successful was hard work. Regardless of how clear and apparent a theory seems to be, due diligence must be done in order to confirm its validity.

Since the body paragraphs of an expository essay need to include analysis as well as information, the MEAL plan is one way to organize them. MEAL stands for:

• L ink/ L ead out

The Main idea of each body paragraph will be the topic sentence. This sentence is written in your own words (that is, it’s not information that comes from other sources). It should have a connection to the thesis statement (your claim) and give the reader a general idea of what the paragraph is about.

The Evidence is the information you gather from other sources to support your claim. Since it comes from other sources, evidence must be cited.

The Analysis is where you interpret the evidence and give it meaning, supporting your claim. Analysis should be in your own words and not from other sources. You don’t cite analysis.

Note: Your body paragraph should have several sentences of evidence followed by analysis. How you organize that is up to you. For example, you could have:

E, E, A, E, E, A.

Or: E, A, A, E, A, E, A, A.

Or: E, A, E, A, E, A, E, A.

That is up to you and will depend on what information you find.

However, you should NOT have: E, E, E, E, A, A, A, A. Every piece of evidence should be followed by its analysis.

The Link , or Lead out , will either link back to the main claim (the thesis statement) or summarize and lead out to the next paragraph. Whether you link back or lead out, your paragraph should have a feeling of conclusion.

Complete expository essay outline example

I. There are several criticisms directed at Dweck’s Growth Mindset theory and the studies that led to it

II. Findings are not replicable

A. Dweck’s studies showed drastic results https://www.spectator.co.uk/article/a-myth-that-keeps-growing-and-growing https://www.buzzfeed.com/tomchivers/what-is-your-mindset

• Red flags – psych studies tend to show small results
• Significant results, try to replicate results to validate

B. Low socioeconomic students https://www.psychologytoday.com/us/blog/ulterior-motives/201710/the-growth-mindset-works-not-everyone

C. Only benefitted academically advanced students

D. Other group: Disadvantaged highest performing students

• This experiment contradicts Dweck

With inconsistent results like these, the findings from  Dweck’s studies are put into question.

III. Difficulty in applying the principles in a classroom setting

A. “Educators have applied principles with tremendously gratifying results” https://www.edweek.org/leadership/opinion-caorl-dweck-revisits-the-growth-mindset/2015/00

B. However: “Teachers misunderstand how to develop mindset”

C. Teachers need to be taught principles and steps

• Dweck seems to try to justify herself and her results

D. “If scientists trying to replicate have a hard time teaching, how can we expect teachers to do it right?” https://www.spectator.co.uk/article/a-myth-that-keeps-growing-and-growing

• Teaching initiative should come with training, or could backfire

IV. Learning about growth mindset might negatively impact high-performing students

A. High-performing students feel special = feedback loop https://www.psychologytoday.com/us/blog/ulterior-motives/201710/the-growth-mindset-works-not-everyone

B. Perhaps learning they performed well because they worked hard = demotivating https://www.happyasannie.com/adopt-growth-mindset/

• Being “gifted” more important than being “hardworking”

C. Society glorifies geniuses & natural talents – we’ve adopted “collective fixed mindset”

D. “Anyone can try hard and succeed. Nothing special. But try and fail? Pathetic”

• Society rewarding “special” not hardworking.
• Geniuses: How often do we see them on social media working hard?
• We usually see end result, not process.

V. Regardless of how clear and apparent a theory seems to be, due diligence must be done in order to confirm its validity

Templates and examples

Expository essay template in mla, expository essay template in apa, example expository essay.

Before you turn in that paper, don’t forget to cite your sources in APA format , MLA format , or a style of your choice.

By Halina Stolar. Halina has a master’s degree in teaching and taught English as a Second Language and writing for almost 15 years overseas. She now works as a freelance writer and geeks out over grammar for fun.

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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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How to Write an Expository Essay?

27 April, 2020

12 minutes read

Author:  Tomas White

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

What is an expository essay?

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

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

Is an argumentative essay an expository essay?

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

How are a persuasive essay and an expository essay different?

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

How to write an expository essay

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

What are the main types of expository essays?

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

A Descriptive Essay

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

A Process Essay

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

A Comparison Essay (Compare and Contrast Essay)

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

A Cause and Effect Essay

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

A Problem and Solution Essay

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

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

How to choose a title for an expository essay?

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

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

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

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

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Expository essay topics for high school and college

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

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

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

Process titles

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

Comparison titles

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

Cause and effect titles

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

Problems and solution titles 

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

Expository essay Outline

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

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

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

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

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

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

What should I include in the introduction?

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

How should I write the body paragraphs?

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

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

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

How to write a conclusion?

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

Expository essay example

Do’s and don’ts of expository essays.

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