It is likely that before you found this article, you have perused through countless books, briefs, magazines, newspapers, and all kinds of publications. Chances are, you have read expository paragraphs. Whenever you sit an exam, it is expected that you present your answers in expository form. Perhaps that explains why connecting words such as first, second, then, and finally are common. Typically, the words are used for aiding your audience to keep tabs on arguments. Expository paragraphs are meant to provide information. This material includes descriptions of relevant themes, provision of instructions, or demonstration of how phenomena unfold.

A good expository paragraph is an essential component of serious written communication. As a result, it should entice the reader, hook them into the rest of the paper by use of thought-provoking, yet pertinent data, before recapitulating the information.  Your introductory sentence should focus on the topic, and the particular pieces of evidence to support the claim. It should also provide relevant examples to reinforce the main idea of the paragraph. If the paragraph is in the conclusion section, it should sign off with a stimulating call to action.  If you can hook the reader, and offer strong evidence, then you have a great chance of achieving a good readership. Yet, do not underestimate the power of good communication.

Structure of Expository Paragraph

As you ponder on whether you should write an expository paragraph, it is important to study the recommended outline. Similar to other paragraphs, it must have three parts that include a great topic sentence, a strong thesis statement if it appears in the introduction of an essay. You need to use consistent and logical transitions from one sentence to the other when the paragraph contains a thesis statement.

Exploratory paragraphs, just as other paragraphs, should be structured around three elements: topic sentence, supporting evidence, and concluding sentences. Every conceivable paragraph should have a topic sentence. A topic sentence is an opening statement and it helps the audience to comprehend the contents of your paragraph. To make a strong impression on your reader, ensure that your topic sentence presents the core idea of the paragraph as articulated. The topic sentence is critical to the reader as it lets him (or her) keep abreast with what to expect in subsequent parts of the paragraphs. It is necessary to outline reasons, why the arguments presented, are significant.

The theme (or main idea) of the paragraph is contained in the topic sentence. It should shift smoothly to body sentences, a collection of statements (before the closing statement) that constitute the supporting evidence which should be outlined sequentially and logically. The closing statement is the concluding sentence. It brings the paragraph to a close-by signing off powerfully with key highlights of the main points. This is a fine way to ensure that the outcome reinforces the topic.

As stated, an expository paragraph primarily aims to explain, describe, inform, or persuade.

The Body Paragraph

The body section is where the core content of the paragraph is placed. It is expected that by the time you come to the end of your opening sentence (or topic sentence), you have gathered sufficient information to back the claims you made. This piece of information should be carefully examined to ensure that it is credible, convincing, and logical. Never put unreliable evidence in this portion as it may discolor the opening sentence before giving way to a weak conclusion. It includes a meticulous analysis of the topic to make it stimulating and enlightening. Your reflection on what goes into the body of the expository paragraph should lead you to ponder how you can elucidate your themes effectively. A realistic structure is a must-have if you are to write a successful body section. It ensures that your analysis or argument is properly arranged, well-thought-out, and comprehensive enough to cover everything that you need to support your claims or topic.

While the paragraphs should be short, and typically not more than six sentences in length, they should provide evidence that is accurate, quantifiable, and rational. The paragraph should end with a strong closing statement or conclusion which does not necessarily have to reaffirm the thesis.

Analyzing or Assessing

It is a known fact that explanatory paragraphs explore underlying reasons that render a topic important. However, it is also true that expository paragraphs demand more analysis than explanations. The net import of this is that you should strive to produce effective statements that can relay your points to the reader.