How to Write an Expository Essay

An expository essay is the type of essay that involves an investigation of a topic or idea and presents an explanation in a clear, concise, and logical manner. It aims to provide a balanced and objective explanation. As expository means “to describe or explain something”, it also means to reveal the meaning, to lay open, speak one’s mind. 

Unlike persuasive or argumentative essays, expository essays don’t include personal statements or opinions but instead rely on facts, evidence, and examples. 

When to Write an Expository Essay? 

Expository essays are usually assigned to you by your school, college, or university as an assignment task. They are used to assess students’ subject knowledge and composition skills. When compared with argumentative essays, they involve a lot less research.

However, the guidelines may or may not clearly state that your assignment is an expository essay. If that is the case, then look for keywords like ‘explain’, ‘describe’, ‘define’, etc., to be sure that what has been asked for is an expository essay.

Types of an Expository Essay

Each type of expository essay serves a different purpose. Here are the six types of an expository essay: 

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How to Structure an Expository Essay?

An expository essay will require you to take the five-paragraph essay approach: an introductory paragraph, main body paragraphs, and a concluding paragraph. However, here is how you can structure your expository essay:

Steps to Write an Expository Essay

Take these given steps to write a high-quality expository essay: 

Step 1: Understand the essay requirements

The first step in writing an essay is to understand the essay requirements. Check the essay prompt that your instructor has given you. Look for word count, formatting, and topic restrictions requirements. 

When you have assessed all the requirements, also ensure to determine which type of expository essay is needed, whether it’s a definition, process, or compare and contrast. 

Step 2: Choose a strong topic 

The next step is to choose a suitable topic. It can be done by picking a subject of your interest. Then, think of a topic that is specific, researchable, and interesting. The topic shouldn’t be too broad, should have enough credible sources available, and should be engaging for readers. Here is an example: 

Created with Sketch Beta. Too Broad: “Technoology”

Better: “How AI is transforming healthcare diagnostics?”

Step 3: Conduct thorough research

When writing an expository essay, also conduct in-depth research to find relevant data and information. 

Use reliable sources, such as academic journals like Google Scholar and JSTOR, government reports, and reputable news outlets like BBC, CNN, and the New York Times. Take organised notes and bookmark key evidence. 

Step 4: Develop a clear thesis statement

When you conduct research, you come across a variety of facts, figures, and information, but you can’t add all of them to your essay. So, you need to organise your essay and narrow down your research into a clear thesis statement. 

A strong thesis statement should state the main idea of the essay, be concise (1-2 sentences), and guide the direction of the essay. Here is an example:

Weak Thesis: “Exercise is good for health”. 

Strong Thesis: “Regular exercise improves cardiovascular health, reduces stress, and enhances cognitive function”. 

Step 5: Create a detailed outline

After developing a thesis statement, the next step is to create a detailed essay outline. It will significantly help you keep on track while writing your essay, avoiding sidetracking. 

Like other essay types, an expository essay begins with an introduction, main body paragraphs, and a conclusion. An outline is essential to ensure logical flow and to grab readers’ interest. Once you have caught the readers’ interest, it will be easier to get them to read the remaining essay.

Step 6: Write the first draft

As the essay outline is ready, now it’s time to write it. Some experts suggest starting the main body first and writing the introduction at the end. However, you can also write the introduction first, but always begin it with a compelling hook. 

When writing main body paragraphs, follow the PEEL paragraph structure. 

• P (Point): The topic sentence introduces the main idea. 

• E (Evidence): Then, evidence, such as facts, quotes, or statistics, is added. 

• E (Explanation): Analyse how the evidence supports the point. 

• L (Link): Link the explanation back to the thesis or transition to the next paragraph. 

Moreover, when concluding your expository essay, reinforce the thesis without introducing new data and information. 

Step 7: Revise, proofread, and edit

When you have completed the first draft, it’s time to revise and proofread it. Determine whether the thesis is clear or if the arguments are well-supported. Maintain the clarity of text by removing unnecessary words and ensuring smooth transitions. However, editing and proofreading services can make your essay error-free and flawless. 

They will detect all major and minor errors, such as grammar, spelling, or punctuation, and rectify them soon. Also, maintain formatting consistency, whether you cite sources with APA, MLA, Chicago, or Harvard styles. 

Expository Essay Example

Here is an example of an expository essay: 

“The Impact of Sleep Deprivation on Academic Performance”

Imagine studying for hours but retaining nothing; this is the reality for many sleep-deprived students. Sleep deprivation, defined as getting less than 7-9 hours of sleep per night, negatively affects memory, concentration, and academic success. This essay explores how insufficient sleep impairs learning and offers solutions for students. 

Sleep is essential for memory consolidation. According to Harvard Medical School, students who sleep less than 6 hours perform 20% worse on exams than well-rested peers. Without adequate REM sleep, the brain struggles to process and store new information. 

Chronic sleep deprivation increases stress hormones like cortisol, leading to anxiety and irritability. A 2022 NIH study found that sleep-deprived students reported higher burnout rates. Additionally, fatigue weakens the immune system, increasing sick days. 

To combat sleep deprivation, schools should start later, as recommended by the American Academy of Paediatrics. Students can adopt better sleep hygiene, such as limiting screen time before bed and maintaining a consistent sleep schedule. 

Sleep deprivation severely hinders academic performance by impairing memory, increasing stress, and lowering immunity. By prioritising sleep, students can enhance learning efficiency and overall well-being. 

Expository Essay Checklist

• I have written my essay in the appropriate expository style.
• My thesis statement is clear and concise.
• My essay has a logical flow from one part to the next.
• I have not deviated from the subject.
• I have included only relevant examples and evidence.
• Each paragraph focuses on just one point.
• The structure is the one I was instructed to use.
• I have paid attention to the appropriate use of academic language.
• I have proofread it for errors and mistakes of any kind.

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