How to Write an Expository Essay

An expository essay presents information or explains something in depth without argument or deeply held opinions. Regardless of its purpose, an expository essay is simple to write if you follow these steps.

Instructions

Difficulty: Moderately Easy

1. Choose a topic to investigate. This can be a single word, the steps you need to complete a project or a thorough investigation of a concept. You can expound on the democratic process or the requirements and challenges of changing a tire on your car. It is import that you present the facts rather than opinion in your essay.
2. Start researching facts about your topic using books, the Internet, interviews and reference materials. Look for unique or little-known facts but make sure you are getting accurate information. Just because it appears on the Internet does not mean it is fact.
3. Write a lead for your essay, explaining what you will be discussing and presenting a thesis statement about your topic. You should have plenty of data to back up your thesis statement.
4. Compose the body of your essay, including supportive facts and data that upholds your thesis statement. Don't make emotional arguments or ostentatious claims. Be factual, objective and brief.
5. Transition your essay logically. Work off an outline or make sure the paragraphs flow from one logical point to another. Make sure each paragraph only makes one point and is fully documented.
6. Conclude by restating your thesis and summing up the data and information you've just given. Expository essays tend to be informational rather than reactionary.
7. Include charts, graphs, photos or data to help support your information. This is usually included in a sidebar and can help further explain your topic.
8. Proofread, run spell check and review your rough draft until you have polished it to perfection. Save it on your computer and print out a hard copy.

Tips & Warnings

• Keep a list of your references. Include a reference sheet with your paper or include it within the text as footnotes. Don't use data if you can't remember where you got it.
• Double check your data when gathering information from the Internet. Make sure it is from a reputable source and can be cited elsewhere.