How to write an expository essay

First, lets hear the brief definition abiut expository essay.

“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.

When should you write an expository essay?

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. 

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.

How to approach an expository essay

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.

Introducing your essay

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.
Writing the body paragraphs
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.

Concluding your essay

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.