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Types of Writing
Handout 1b
TYPES OF WRITING
General Writing Modes
Expository Writing
Expository writing presents factual information about a subject. Its main purpose is to
inform. Because expository writing is concerned with presenting facts to the audience, it
should be objective and unbiased. Expository writing is often used in the sciences, and it is
the primary mode used by journalists. Within academic essays, we use expository writing
when we present factual information, such as background or research findings.
We use expository writing to
 report facts
 summarize ideas
 define terms
 explain a process
 give instructions
Descriptive Writing
Descriptive writing paints a picture of a subject through the use of vivid imagery and
specific detail. Descriptive writing tries to convey a particular impression of a person, place,
or thing. Because descriptive writing uses strong “word pictures”, it is a great way to convey
emotion and attitude. Vivid descriptions can be great tools for persuasion, and often add
interest to introductions or conclusions.
We use descriptive writing in many different writing tasks,
including
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Narratives or stories
Reports
Personal experiences
Character sketches
Advertising
Poetry
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Types of Writing
Handout 1b
Narrative Writing
Narrative writing is used to tell a story. Narration presents a series of events in order to
inform or entertain the audience. Narrative writing can be both fiction and non-fiction. The
primary goal of narration is to relate a series of events that occurred to particular characters.
However, narrative writing will often incorporate the descriptive mode (when describing
setting and characters) as well as the expository mode (when stating background or other
information directly to the reader). Within academic essays, narrative writing can be used to
relate an anecdote, particularly in an introduction or as part of an example.
We use narrative writing for
 anecdotes and illustrative examples
 personal writing
 creative writing
 fiction
Persuasive Writing
Persuasive writing is used to convince the audience to believe or agree with the writer’s
argument or interpretation. Most advanced academic writing is done in the persuasive mode.
Persuasive writing relies primarily on logic and specific supporting examples, but it often
incorporates expository, descriptive, and occasionally narrative modes as well.
Persuasive writing takes many forms, including
 literary analysis
 historical analysis
 debates
 research papers
 advertising
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