Expository writing aims to explain, describe, or inform about a topic using facts and logical reasoning. Key features include a clear thesis, logical structure, supporting evidence, an objective tone, and the use of transition words. Types of expository writing include definition essays, process essays, compare and contrast essays, and cause and effect essays.

1. Expository Writing Handout
What is Expository Writing?
Expository writing is a type of writing that seeks to explain, describe, or inform the
reader about a topic. Unlike narrative or descriptive writing, expository writing
focuses on facts and logical reasoning rather than opinions or emotions. It is
commonly used in essays, articles, reports, and textbooks.
Key Features of Expository Writing
1. Clear Thesis Statement
The thesis is the central idea of your writing.
It should clearly express what the essay or text will explain or describe.
2. Logical Structure

2. Organize your writing in a clear, logical order.
Common structures include cause and effect, compare and contrast, and
chronological order.
3. Supporting Evidence
Use facts, statistics, examples, or quotes to support your ideas.
No personal opinions or arguments.
4. Objective Tone
Write in a neutral, unbiased tone.
Avoid using “I” or “you” unless necessary.
5. Transition Words

3. Use transition words to connect ideas and guide the reader.
Examples: “firstly,” “in addition,” “next,” “however,” “finally.”
Types of Expository Writing
1. Definition Essay
Explains the meaning of a term or concept. Example: “What is leadership?”
2. Process Essay
Describes how something works or how to do something. Example: “How to bake a
cake.”
3. Compare and Contrast Essay
Discusses similarities and differences between two or more things. Example:
“Compare traditional schooling to online schooling.”

4. 4. Cause and Effect Essay
Explains why something happens (cause) and what happens as a result (effect).
Example: “What are the causes and effects of climate change?”
How to Write an Expository Essay
1. Choose a Topic
Select a topic that you can explain in detail. For example: “The process of
photosynthesis.”
2. Research and Gather Information
Look for reliable sources that provide facts, statistics, or examples. Take notes on
key points.
3. Create an Outline
Organize your information into a logical structure:
Introduction: Introduce your topic and state your thesis.

5. Body Paragraphs: Each paragraph should focus on a single idea supported by
evidence.
Conclusion: Summarize the main points and restate the thesis.
4. Write Your Essay
Follow your outline and make sure to explain each point clearly. Use transition
words to ensure the flow of the essay is smooth.
5. Revise and Edit
Review your essay for clarity, coherence, and accuracy. Correct any grammar or
spelling errors.
Example of an Expository Paragraph
Topic: The Water Cycle

6. The water cycle is the continuous process by which water moves from the Earth’s
surface to the atmosphere and back again. This process is driven by the sun’s
energy. Water evaporates from oceans, lakes, and rivers, turning into water vapor.
As it rises into the atmosphere, it cools and condenses into clouds. Eventually, the
water falls back to the Earth as precipitation, such as rain or snow. The water then
flows back into bodies of water or is absorbed into the ground, restarting the cycle.
This natural cycle is essential for maintaining life on Earth.
Activity: Writing an Expository Paragraph
Choose one of the following topics and write an expository paragraph (5-6
sentences) explaining it:
How to prepare for a test.
The benefits of regular exercise.
The impact of social media on teenagers.
Practice Prompts for Expository Essays

7. 1. Explain how technology has changed communication in the last 10 years.
2. Describe the process of recycling and its importance for the environment.
3. Compare and contrast living in the city and living in the countryside.
4. Discuss the causes and effects of water pollution.
5. Define what it means to be a good leader.
Additional Activities
1. Definition Essay:
Write a short essay defining one of the following:
Friendship

8. Success
Responsibility
2. Compare and Contrast:
Write a two-paragraph comparison of two similar items or ideas (e.g., two sports,
two types of music, two holidays).
3. Process Writing:
Write a paragraph explaining how to complete a specific task (e.g., how to plant a
tree, how to create a budget).
4. Cause and Effect Essay:
Write about the causes and effects of one of the following:
Climate change
Deforestation
Lack of sleep on health

9. Helpful Transition Words for Expository Writing
For adding ideas: Additionally, Furthermore, Moreover
For explaining causes: Because, Due to, As a result of
For comparing: Similarly, Likewise, In the same way
For contrasting: However, On the other hand, Conversely
For concluding: In conclusion, To sum up, Finally