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How to write an explanatory essay: Guide and Examples

How to write an explanatory essay: Guide and Examples

Writing an explanatory essay is a great way to get your voice heard and show off what you know. But it can seem difficult at first glance, so we’re here to help you with some pointers! In this blog post, we will discuss the intricacies of writing an explanatory essay. From understanding the requirements and audience to outlining your ideas and finally drafting a perfect piece.

What is an Explanatory Essay?

An Explanatory Essay or explanation essay is a type of academic writing that explains the causes and effects of an event or phenomenon. Explanatory essays are often written in response to questions such as “why do we have seasons?” or “how does climate change affect biodiversity?” Explanatory Thesis Papers can be researched, thought-provoking, and challenging for students who are learning how to write them.

This type of prose explains something and usually takes the form of either an opinion or argumentative essay, though it can also be written in narrative form. Explanation essays are often assigned to students as they provide explanation and analysis for some event, phenomenon, or topic. This blog post will talk about how to write an explanatory essay – the benefits of writing one and where you might find sources for your information on this subject.

Steps of writing an Explanatory Essay

  1. The first part is narrowing down what you need to know about your subject matter; this will help in formulating a good essay question – which should be simple enough that anyone can understand it but not so narrow such as “what are the benefits?”). Once you have narrowed down your focus area, think of possible questions someone might ask when reading this paper. That way, you’ll generate strong notes towards answering them later on without having any misconceptions or gaps in knowledge.
  2. The next step is developing a thesis statement for the explanatory essay based upon these queries like ‘What is Explanatory Thesis?’ or ‘What are the Steps of Writing an Explanatory Essay?’. This statement should be written in a sentence, and it will either answer one question or break down your subject matter into parts.
  3. The third step involves setting up an outline for the essay that includes all three sections – introduction, body, and conclusion. Before you get too far into writing this paper though, make sure to read through it at least once so there aren’t any typos!

Explanatory Essay structure, Format and Outline

There are two major types of explanatory essay formats: linear format and hierarchical format (source).

The linearly structured paper has three sections-introduction/thesis statement, analysis/evidence, and conclusion

The hierarchically structured paper has four sections: introduction/thesis statement, body paragraphs (supporting evidence), general comments or final thoughts.

Introduction

An Explanation essay should be organized in such a way that it starts by introducing the reader what they’re going to discuss followed by how this argument will be structured before proceeding onto presenting their thesis statement which then goes into supporting evidence from research/experience/opinion etc as well as counter arguments so you don’t just present an opinion but rather give reasons why your opinion is the best one.

Explanatory Essay Thesis Statement

An Explanatory Essay’s thesis statement should be a topic sentence that states your perspective on what will be discussed and provides an overview of how you’re going to discuss it as well as why this is important, relevant or even interesting to the reader. In other words, it introduces your argument while telling them where they stand in regards to their own beliefs which means they don’t have to guess what your stance might be if you haven’t done so already (though there are exceptions). You can start with “The N/A” for example but something like “I believe that N/A because…” would work just fine too. If you need help coming up with ideas then there are a few sources that you can use and I’ll list them below.

Body Paragraphs

For the body paragraphs of an explanatory academic paper, you’ll need to start with a paragraph that tells the reader what your position is on this topic and why. You may also want to include some examples or other sources so they can see where your thoughts are coming from, though it’s not necessary if you’re just trying to clarify an already well-known viewpoint – in which case you should move onto the next paragraphs of support for that viewpoint instead. Explanatory essays might be a bit difficult at first but don’t worry! I’ve got plenty of tips below to help get started.

Conclusion Paragraph

The conclusion paragraph of an explanation essay should be short and provide a summary of your argument. It should also include any final thoughts you have on the topic, whether it’s how to fix the problem or what we can do next if this issue isn’t solved soon.

This is the general outline of an explanatory essay paper:

Introduction

………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………….

Body Paragraphs (Thesis Statement, Explanation of Evidence)

Para 1

………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………….

Paragraph 2

………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………….

Paragraph 3

………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………….

Conclusion/Reflection paragraph(s) with Thesis Statement again at the end

………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………….

25+ Original Explanatory Essay Topics

  1. How Do We Know That Humans Have Been Using Surfboards For Thousands Of Years And Not Just The Past Few Decades?
  2. What Exactly Are We Doing With Oil Spills, And Why Is It A Problem That Needs To Be Addressed Now?
  3. How Do You Know If Your Dog’s Ear Infection is Serious Enough to Visit the Vet or Can Wait Until Tomorrow?
  4. Why Dogs Pull On Leashes – Explanations From Professional Trainers and Owners
  5. Explanation of how air conditioning works
  6. Explanation of why there is no sound in space
  7. Explanations for life on earth
  8. Explanations about the existence and nature of God, gods, or goddesses.
  9. How Your Brain Works
  10. Explanation on the impact of television’s effect on society.
  11. Explaining how to successfully reach a goal through planning and perseverance.
  12. Explanation for what can be considered an appropriate age for marriage in America today.
  13. The best way to practice guitar
  14. How I feel about the future
  15. Explanation of a Health Issue/disease. Why do we get it? How does it affect us? What treatments are available?
  16. Explanation about an ancient or long ago culture, history event, etc. with the goal to teach about this culture or event and how it relates to our lives today.
  17. Explanation about a piece of literature, including the author’s writing style and what lessons can be learned from the text
  18. Explanation on why an object is significant in history or culture
  19. Explanation of a scientific idea/concept that
  20. How to Be a Good Friend
  21. Why I Ride My Bike Everywhere
  22. What Happens When You Die: A Look at Life After Death
  23. Is College Worth It? Some Thoughts about the Value of Higher Education.
  24. Is There Really a Link Between Sugar Consumption and Cancer Rates in North America?
  25. The Astounding Effects of Climate Change on Mount Kilimanjaro/Mount Everest: Comparison of Photos from 1970s with 2013. What Has Changed Over 40 Years?
  26. Explain why we should not be afraid of our personal data and how it is being used in a positive way.

Explanatory Essay Example

Sample 1

A common misconception about surfing’s history is that Polynesia was its birthplace; however there are many sources which say otherwise (such as Captain Cook’s journal). To establish some background knowledge on the matter, there are three points that need to be made.

The first point is in regards to the waves themselves and how they were documented by Captain Cook with no mention of surfing. Secondly, while ancient Hawaiian texts do not mention surfing either (rather it was a “blessed path”), there isn’t much information on this topic as well because the natives did not ever come into contact with Europeans before 1778-1879 according to Hawaii’s history timeline from 18th century till now.

Lastly, many sources say Polynesia doesn’t hold any evidence for surfboards or other technology related to them like we have today; however Tahiti does contain significant archeological sites which provide proof of early maritime journeys where some people may have used a surfboard or other watercraft to get around.”

Sample 2

Topic: An Essay on the Electoral College

I believe that we should keep the Electoral College because its purpose is twofold; first, it encourages voter turnout as opposed to discouraging participation by making it harder than ever to actually cast a vote for your chosen candidate. Secondly, it allows candidates from smaller states or areas who might not otherwise be heard an opportunity to reach out and connect with their communities in ways that they may have never had the chance to do before.

The Electoral College ensures all voices are heard despite geographical location as well as demographic makeup by favoring those in rural areas over densely populated urban centers; this is especially true when considering how many people living in large cities often don’t even know about events happening just miles away from them! The electoral college also assists challengers of a popular incumbent because it gives minority interests more say than ever before due to its unique power structure where you need at least 270 votes (50% + one) instead of simply a plurality.

In essence, the electoral college achieves what we all want to see in a political system: both local and national interests are taken into account when determining who will be our nation’s leader for the next four years – instead of one or the other!

Sample 3

Essay Topic: “Explanation of the educational system in Canada

The goal of education is to provide students with skills that they will use throughout their lifetime, such as reading and writing. In this essay I am going to talk about the Canadian Educational System which encompasses elementary (kindergarten-grade nine), secondary (grades nine to twelve), and post-secondary (college or university).

The Canadian educational system is based on its values, which are similar to other countries. They include equity, creativity, citizenship and lifelong learning. The goal of the Canadian education system is for students not only get a good start in life but also have access to all opportunities that Canada has offered people.

Elementary school: Kindergarten through grade six

Students will learn everything they need to know about reading, writing and math skills during these years so they can continue their education with confidence when it comes time for high school. Students should be taught how different languages work as well as develop an understanding of important cultures from around the world such as French Immersion programs were students are immersed in a different culture and language.

Middle school: grades seven to nine

This is the time when students need to make some life decisions based on what they like, who they want be with and how much responsibility they’re willing to take on. Students will also develop their skills of critical thinking as well as understanding themselves more deeply.

High School: Grades ten through twelve

The goal during these years for high school can vary greatly depending on the student’s goals or interests but should one work hard enough it can lead them into a completely new direction such as college or university where they may learn about things that interest them even more! For example, if someone were interested in business then there would be plenty of opportunities for them to learn about it in high school.

College: Grades thirteen through sixteen

As a student progresses from high school to college, the biggest difference is that they will be learning in an environment where many of their peers are also studying. This means it is easier for them to find people with interests similar to theirs and get help if needed. They can really focus on what they want during these years which could lead into any number of different careers or fields! For example, someone who may have already been interested in business would then more easily learn about all sorts of opportunities related to this field such as entrepreneurship. College is often considered one’s most “career-building” time because it gives you so much exposure outside your major and allows you the chance to explore before settling down.”

Key Takeaways

  • The Explanatory Essay should be between 500 – 1000 words long (excluding title).
  • There are four sections of the explanatory essay: Introduction with thesis statement; Body paragraphs which provide reasons and evidence for points made in the introduction; Conclusion.
  • Explanation essays use cause/effect reasoning, comparison/contrast reasoning, argumentation, persuasion strategies etc., but always try to stay focused on expounding upon your original idea through these different methods without veering off into other areas not related to your point.
  • It’s important to break the text up into short paragraphs, and include bullet points where appropriate for readers who are skimming or on mobile devices. You can also use headings with keywords in order make it easier for search engines to find your content.

Looking for Academic Homework Help Service?

After reading this article and understanding the steps of how to write an explanatory essay, you should be more confident in your ability. You know what type of format to use for writing a good explanatory essay outline and some possible topics. If you want help with any “write my paper” request, we are here for you! Our assignment writers can provide homework assistance that will make it easier for you than ever before. We hope you’ve found this resource helpful as well as entertaining – now go ahead and try out one of these explanations on your own! It won’t take long until you’re ready to submit an A+ paper from our Professional online essay writing service without having spent hours studying or researching necessary information yourself.

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