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Informative Essay: Student Guidelines for an A+ Paper

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Written by
Dr. Isabel Larsen
  • Icon Calendar 13 October 2024
  • Icon Page 7055 words
  • 32 min read

Writing an informative essay is a crucial academic exercise for students because it provides an opportunity to develop and perfect writing skills. Like any other paper, an informative essay has a format that comprises three main sections: introduction, body, and conclusion. Moreover, a significant difference between this essay and other types of papers is that its purpose is to educate an intended audience about a central topic or an issue. Ideally, an informative essay: defines a term, topic, or issue; compares and contrasts; analyzes data, a problem, or a phenomenon; or provides a how-to guide on a chosen subject. In turn, these four goals represent four categories of informative essays. As such, students need to learn how to write a perfect informative essay to master their writing skills and shape knowledge on delivering an intended message to readers.

General Aspects

Informative essays are standard academic texts, and students need to write them during their college years. Unlike research papers investigating a phenomenon to advance knowledge in specific fields, such compositions provide information or explain a subject, topic, or issue to readers. In this case, authors of this type of paper consider a target audience when providing information that corresponds to their understanding level. Moreover, they must never over-explain to experts if it is possible to make assumptions or under-explain to people who lack a basic understanding on a subject matter. Since the standard purpose of these informative essays is to educate readers by providing in-depth information and a clear explanation of a subject, topic, or issue, tailoring a central message to a reader’s level of understanding is crucial. In writing, the four elements of an informative essay are an introduction, thesis statement, body, and conclusion.

What Is an Informative Essay and Its Purpose

According to its definition, an informative essay is a type and form of structured writing that aims to educate people on a specific topic by providing factual, unbiased information. For example, the main purpose of writing an informative essay is to present a well-researched and clear explanation of a chosen subject, concept, or process, allowing people to gain a deeper understanding of a key theme (Sherman, 2020). Unlike persuasive or argumentative papers, an informative essay does not seek to convince readers of a particular viewpoint or opinion but rather to inform them in a straightforward and objective manner. Further on, such a composition usually begins with an introduction paragraph that introduces an assigned topic and presents a thesis statement, followed by body paragraphs that explore various facets of a subject in depth (Matthews, 2023). Moreover, each paragraph typically focuses on a single point or piece of information, ensuring people gain a thorough understanding of a given theme. In turn, a conclusion paragraph ties together the information presented, reinforcing key content points (Palmquist & Wallraff, 2020). Besides, the seven steps in writing an informative essay are choosing a unique topic, conducting some research, creating a well-structured outline, writing an introduction, developing body paragraphs, crafting a conclusion, and revising and editing a complete paper. Finally, informative writing is written in a clear, objective, and structured manner, presenting well-researched facts and information without personal opinions or bias (Ray et al., 2023). In terms of pages and words, the length of an informative essay depends on academic levels, complexities of topics, depth of research, and specific course or institution requirements, while general writing guidelines are:

High School


  • Length: 1-3 pages
  • Word Count: 250-750 words

College (Undergraduate)


  • Length: 2-4 pages
  • Word Count: 500-1,000 words

University (Upper-Level Undergraduate)


  • Length: 3-6 pages
  • Word Count: 750-1,500 words

Master’s


  • Length: 4-8 pages
  • Word Count: 1,000-2,000 words

Ph.D.


  • Length: 6-12+ pages
  • Word Count: 1,500-3,000+ words

Why and Where to Write

When it comes to why and when to write an informative essay, students should judge what a given prompt requires them to do. For example, to write an informative essay, people thoroughly research their topics, organize the information logically, and present an entire content clearly and objectively, ensuring each point is supported by evidence and free from personal bias (Palmquist & Wallraff, 2020). Basically, there are four main categories of informative essay prompts. Hence, these elements are:

  • Prompts requiring students to define a term, topic, or issue.
  • Assignments requiring students to compare and contrast.
  • Tasks requiring an entire analysis of data, an issue, or a phenomenon.
  • Instructions requiring students to provide a how-to guide on a subject.
How to write an informative essay

Format

SectionContent
TitleA concise, clear title reflecting a main topic of informative essay writing.
IntroductionA first paragraph outlining an entire content of a paper.
HookA compelling sentence or question to grab a reader’s attention.
Background InfoA brief context or background information to help readers to understand a central topic.
Thesis StatementA clear, concise statement that outlines a main point or purpose of an informative essay.
Body Paragraph 1A second paragraph talking about a first point.
Topic SentenceIntroduces a main idea of a first body paragraph, relating to a thesis.
Supporting DetailsFacts, statistics, examples, and explanations that elaborate on a topic sentence.
TransitionA sentence that smoothly connects a current paragraph to a next one.
Body Paragraph 2A third paragraph covering a main idea of a second body paragraph.
Topic SentenceIntroduces a main idea of a second body paragraph, relating to a thesis.
Supporting DetailsFacts, statistics, examples, and explanations that elaborate on a topic sentence.
TransitionA sentence that smoothly connects a current paragraph to a next one.
Body Paragraph 3A fourth paragraph including a main idea of a third body paragraph.
Topic SentenceIntroduces a main idea of a third body paragraph, relating to a thesis.
Supporting DetailsFacts, statistics, examples, and explanations that elaborate on a topic sentence.
TransitionA sentence that smoothly connects a current paragraph to a next one.
Body Paragraphs 4+Follow the same structure for any other body paragraph.
ConclusionA fifth or last paragraph of an entire paper summarizing key body points.
Restatement of a ThesisRephrases a thesis statement, reflecting on its significance.
Summary of PointsBriefly summarizes main points or arguments made in body paragraphs.
Final ThoughtA closing statement or question that leaves a lasting impression on a reader.
List of ReferencesA list of all sources cited in an informative essay, formatted according to a required citation style, such as APA, MLA, Harvard, and Chicago/Turabian.

Note: Some sections of an informative essay can be added, deleted, or combined with each other, depending on specific length or writing requirements. For example, a right informative essay format is structured with an introduction paragraph with a main thesis statement, body paragraphs that present well-organized information, and a conclusion paragraph that summarizes key paper’s points and reinforces a central claim (Palmquist & Wallraff, 2020). Basically, informative writing is a type and form of writing that aims to educate a reader by providing factual, clear, and objective information on a specific topic. Further on, an informative essay typically has 5 paragraphs: 1 introduction paragraph, 3 body paragraphs, and 1 conclusion paragraph, while these numbers can vary depending on a specific depth and length of an entire paper (Matthews, 2023). In writing, body paragraphs of an informative essay should each focus on a specific aspect of a chosen topic, providing detailed information, evidence, and examples to support a central thesis statement. Furthermore, the key difference between an informative essay and an expository essay is that the former solely presents factual information on a topic, while the latter explains or analyzes a topic, often exploring cause-and-effect relationships or comparing and contrasting ideas (Sherman, 2020). An example of informative writing is an essay explaining a unique process of photosynthesis, detailing how plants convert sunlight into energy, and without including person’s opinions or arguments. On the other hand, the principal difference between an informative essay and a persuasive essay is that the former aims to educate readers with facts and objective information, while the latter seeks to convince people to adopt a specific viewpoint or take a particular action (Davidson & Berninger, 2015). Finally, to start an informative essay, people begin with a compelling hook that grabs a reader’s attention, followed by a brief introduction to an assigned topic and a clear thesis statement sentence that outlines a paper’s main focus.

Prompts

Domestic Violence

Here, standard prompts may require students to analyze data related to domestic violence with a view of educating readers about a trend that a vice is taking. In this case, students need to inform cases of domestic violence that are rising or falling across communities and what dynamics are involved in either situation. After reading an informative essay, an audience must know what leads to domestic violence, including why it is on a rise or a decline in contemporary society.

Poverty

Here, typical assignments may require students to educate readers about specific circumstances that lead to or reflect poverty. In writing an informative essay, a student may mention some factors, like low levels of education, unemployment, a lack of basic amenities, substance abuse, policy failure, infrastructural barriers, and a lack of economic opportunities. Hence, people should provide essential details that help them to characterize a reality of poverty in society.

Plastic Surgery

Here, potential tasks may require students to give a detailed explanation of what the term “plastic surgery” means. In their response, they should educate readers by defining this term and outlining its various manifestations. Then, a critical detail relevant to an intended audience would be why celebrities prefer to have plastic surgeries more than ordinary citizens. More importantly, people should inform a target audience of some pros and cons of having plastic surgery.

Stress

Here, course instructions may require students to provide a how-to guide about stress management. Basically, the information readers may find insightful includes what leads to stress, some adverse health effects of stress, and how stress affects social functioning. However, a particular bulk of the information should be about typical mechanisms of stress management readers may follow if they are stressed or advise a stressed person to follow to avoid adverse effects.

Procrastination

Here, prompts may require students to define procrastination and state its advantages and disadvantages. In writing an informative essay, authors should educate readers about a topic with a view of shedding light on whether one can consider it as a vice. Moreover, it would be beneficial for a target audience to have all the facts about some benefits and drawbacks of procrastination in diverse settings, such as school and workplace environments.

Illegal Immigration

Here, subject assignments may require students to go into details about an issue of illegal immigration. Basically, important details should cover its history, recent trends, and political and social significance in today’s globalized world. Further on, students may identify countries that produce illegal immigrants and those that host them, giving specific reasons on why for each. In their conclusion, authors may provide suggestions as to what needs to happen to protect illegal immigrants’ human dignity in politically hostile environments.

Racism

Here, writing tasks may require students to define racism and give its various manifestations. Basically, students need to provide a brief background of a chosen issue in their response, identifying its victims and perpetrators. Moreover, they should choose a community or country as a case study and provide details that show whether a vice is historical or current and what sentiments prevail concerning it at community and national levels.

Tattoos

Here, class instructions may require students to explain a tattooing trend, including its historical roots. In writing an informative essay, students may provide details about this trend’s demographic distribution and its cultural significance. Identifying a link between pop culture and a tattoo trend is something readers might relate to themselves by considering that a majority of celebrities in a modern world have tattoos.

Teen Pregnancy

Here, some prompts may require students to provide a detailed explanation of teen pregnancy and why it is on a rise in urban centers compared to rural areas. In writing an informative essay, people may decide to compare and contrast teen pregnancy in urban and rural areas, giving specific details about some factors that lead to this trend in both cases. In their conclusion, they should inform readers about what makes either region lead in teen pregnancy cases. Finally, details about parental failures due to career commitments can explain why teens are becoming pregnant in cities.

Homelessness

Here, such assignments may require students to discuss a homelessness phenomenon, educating readers on why it is common in cities and not in rural areas. In writing an informative essay, authors should focus on diverse issues that lead to homelessness, such as population growth, failure of government policies, unemployment, substance use and misuse, and so on. Moreover, an informative essay should give readers insights about what leads to homelessness. As a case study, students can identify a city where official statistics show rising numbers of homeless people.

How to Know

Like with any essay, students write informative essays due to prompts given to them by their instructors. For example, students can write an informative essay after receiving direct instructions from their instructors or by judging that assignments suggest papers should be informative (Palmquist & Wallraff, 2020). In turn, an assigned prompt indicating an essay needs to be informative falls under one of the four categories:

  • define a term, topic, or issue;
  • compare and contrast something;
  • analyze data, an issue, or a phenomenon;
  • provide a how-to guide on a subject.

Steps on How to Write an Informative Essay

Writing an informative essay is an academic exercise, and this process requires students to observe specific protocols of effective writing. Basically, these protocols include preparation, idea generation, thesis development, creation of an outline, note-making, and actual writing. In this case, each of these activities is essential if students are to create documents that meet scholarly texts’ thresholds. For example, in idea generation and note-making, people need to rely on extensive research (Hughes et al., 2021). On its part, thesis development provides students with a guide on argument construction and defense throughout an informative paper. Finally, the five parts of an informative essay are an introduction, thesis statement sentence, body paragraphs, conclusion, and references.

Step 1: Preparation

A first step in writing an informative essay is preparation, which, basically, means ensuring everything is in order before an actual writing starts. For example, some components of this stage are choosing a topic, generating ideas, and identifying an intended audience and their needs (Matthews, 2023). In short, when starting an informative essay, students must prepare themselves adequately to avoid writing irrelevant content.

Choosing a Topic

In most cases, instructors provide some topics students should address in their writing. For example, a first step to creating an informative essay is selecting a clear and focused topic that is both interesting and manageable (Palmquist & Wallraff, 2020). As already mentioned, these topics indicate a specific category of an informative essay out of the four identified above. However, it is not always a case if instructors provide students with a list of topics that offer such direct guidance. In such cases, learners should use creativity to guide their writing, including coming up with a good topic. As such, some examples of informational topics are:

Idea Generation

College topics that instructors provide to their students or ones that learners come up with guidelines for a writing process mean those ideas that help writers on how to go about organizing an informative essay. As indicated in a section about possible informational topics, students can develop ideas on how to address an issue. Generally, a good approach should fall within one of the four categories identified. Moreover, college prompts may or may not direct students concerning a specific type of paper (Sherman, 2020). In either case, authors should generate ideas about writing their papers, including what content is significant and what is not.

Audience Identification

One of the secrets to effective writing is understanding an intended audience and thier needs. When writing an informative essay, students should first seek to understand who would read their texts and tailor the information to their understanding level (Matthews, 2023). As mentioned earlier, people should not over-explain for experts since they can make assumptions and should not under-explain for those who lack a basic understanding.

Step 2: Setting Up a Stage

After preparation, a second stage in organizing an informative essay involves setting up a stage for a paper’s actual writing. Here, students identify credible sources they would use to strengthen their writing, make notes during research, create an outline for their papers, and create an annotated bibliography (Sherman, 2020). In turn, this stage’s essence is that it boosts students’ confidence levels, an essential factor in effective writing.

Identification of Sources

During this initial stage of preparation, students should use a topic as a research subject. Basically, this aspect would help to identify reliable sources, such as books, peer-reviewed journal articles, and official documents, like government reports, essential for critical information. For example, official documents provide data and statistics about initial information, being useful in informative essays, and college prompts require students to analyze data (Palmquist & Wallraff, 2020). In short, researching a good topic gives access to documents that aid in generating ideas about a chosen issue.

Note-Making

As students go through various sources, they should make notes. Ideally, this process involves writing down data, statistics, arguments, findings, and any other information they determine useful in writing an informative essay (Matthews, 2023). Although authors may have generated ideas during a preparation stage, note-making serves to strengthen those ideas by providing evidence, such as statistics and research findings. Therefore, when making notes, students should have their topics in mind and ideas they have generated on how to go about writing an informative essay. In turn, identifying a specific category of a paper out of the four mentioned above is critical when making notes.

Creating an Outline

Essay writing requires students to follow a particular structure, which becomes a paper’s outline. For example, a standard outline means an introduction-body-conclusion structure, and students should observe it when writing an informative essay (Matthews, 2023). In writing, the main purpose of an outline for an informative essay is to organize paper’s main points and supporting details logically, ensuring a clear and coherent structure for writing. Moreover, creating an outline is essential because it enables people to separate information that should go to each part of an informative paper. Depending on a paper’s length, they use their outlines to determine some essay’s sections, headings, and subheadings. 

Creating an Annotated Bibliography

By definition, an annotated bibliography summarizes scholarly sources a student decides to use to get critical information, such as statistics and arguments. Unless there is a direct requirement for an annotated bibliography, people may not need to provide one when writing an informative essay (Palmquist & Wallraff, 2020). However, they can create an annotated bibliography during an identification process of sources they find relevant to their topics. Thus, an annotated bibliography helps students to link the information to source documents with easy citations.

Step 3: Actual Writing

A third stage in organizing an informative essay is an actual writing of a paper. For example, a well-structured outline for an informative essay should include an introduction section with a thesis statement, a body section with paragraphs covering main points and supporting details, and a conclusion section that summarizes the key information (Sherman, 2020). Here, students start by writing a draft document, organizing their ideas, and developing a central thesis. Moreover, a first draft document is vital, as it allows authors to make mistakes they can later correct before writing a final paper (Matthews, 2023). In turn, writing a first draft enables students to organize their thoughts to make an informative paper have a natural flow of ideas. Besides, developing a thesis allows people to determine what arguments should be in a main text. In turn, some examples of sentence starters for beginning an informative essay are:

  • From ancient civilizations to modern societies, a direct impact of [topic] has been profound, influencing various aspects of human lives and shaping a course of history in ways still felt today.
  • As people study key complexities of the 21st century, an actual significance of [topic] becomes increasingly apparent, touching on issues that affect not only individuals but also communities and global systems as a whole.
  • To understand a current state of [topic], it is essential to learn its origins, trace its development through various stages, and examine key factors that have contributed to its evolution.
  • In a fast-changing landscape of [field/industry], [topic] stands out as a critical element, providing insights into potential challenges and opportunities that are crucial for future advancements.
  • A current discussion around [topic] became popular in recent years, driven by a growing awareness of its implications for a modern society, environment, and economy.
  • A comprehensive exploration of [topic] reveals complex factors, each element playing an essential role in a broader context of [related field or issue].
  • Given rapid advancements in [related field], it is more important than ever before to explore corresponding intricacies of [topic], as this theme holds a real potential to influence a direction of future innovations.
  • By examining a whole history and current trends associated with [topic], people can gain valuable insights about crucial challenges and opportunities that lie ahead in [related area].
  • A current study of [topic] provides a unique perspective on [related issue], offering a deeper understanding of how it impacts various aspects of people’s lives and a broader world in general.
  • As people continue to grapple with [related challenge or issue], it is crucial to explore [topic] in depth, understanding its roots and its potential to shape future outcomes.

First Drafts

Writing a first draft is essential in producing a high-quality informative essay. Basically, this process allows students to make mistakes that can be costly if found in an actual document they submit. In this case, a first draft is mostly unorganized and has many instances of illogical arguments and conflicting ideas (Palmquist & Wallraff, 2020). Since a first draft is not a final document, students use this writing to perfect their paper. Then, another critical role of a first draft is to give authors a chance to develop a thesis and develop arguments in body paragraphs that align with a thesis statement’s central argument.

Step 4: Wrapping Up

A final stage in writing an informative essay is where students get to wrap up their papers. Basically, this aspect involves revising areas that seem off and editing grammatical and writing mistakes. Moreover, such a strategy involves ensuring each paragraph has topic and concluding sentences with transitions that create a natural flow of ideas. In turn, students take time to format their papers in line with academic writing conventions, subject an informative essay to peer reviews, and organize final drafts.

Revision and Editing

As stated, a first draft is usually full of writing mistakes and errors that undermine a natural flow of arguments and ideas. Basically, these mistakes and errors include inconsistent statements and grammatical errors, such as wrong or missing punctuation (Matthews, 2023). When wrapping up an informative essay, students should correct these mistakes by revising their papers. After writing first drafts, they should read their compositions through at least twice to identify mistakes and errors. Moreover, when revising an informative essay document, it is important to consider clarity, accuracy of information, logical flow, coherence between paragraphs, and proper grammar and citation. As such, when people identify grammatical errors, they should edit their papers as appropriate.

Topic Sentences

One of the standards of academic writing is that students should begin body paragraphs with topic sentences. Basically, if authors know how to write a topic sentence, they introduce an argument about a topic that strengthens a thesis statement (Palmquist & Wallraff, 2020). As an informative thesis guides an essay, a topic sentence represents what students write in their body paragraphs. In turn, a central idea people should focus on when writing a topic sentence is that a paragraph’s content should be congruent with a central thesis.

Concluding Sentences

As the name suggests, a concluding sentence ends each paragraph in a main text. Here, people rely on the evidence provided in a body section to make concluding remarks about a single idea introduced in a topic sentence (Sherman, 2020). When writing a concluding sentence, the most important thing for authors is to connect a topic sentence to a thesis statement. 

Transitions

One of the main factors that determine an overall quality of an informative essay is a specific flow of a paper. Basically, a natural flow indicates a high-quality paper, and an illogical organization suggests a low-quality composition (Matthews, 2023). In writing, such features that enhance a natural flow are transitions – words and terms that connect ideas between sentences and paragraphs throughout an informative essay. Moreover, examples of transitions include “additionally,” “hence,” “furthermore,” and “as a result.”

Formatting

When writing an informative essay, students should pay attention to several things, one of which is formatting. For example, a specific format students are required to use in their papers is critical (Matthews, 2023). In writing, there are different formatting standards for APA, MLA, Harvard, and Chicago/Turabian papers. When perfecting a first draft, students should confirm their documents satisfy applicable paper formatting standards.

Peer Review

A main aspect that makes an academic text to be of high quality is a lack of mistakes. For example, scholarly documents, such as journal articles, are academic documents of high quality simply because they meet the highest quality standards (Palmquist & Wallraff, 2020). Basically, these standards include an absence of grammatical mistakes, well-developed arguments, and a natural flow of ideas throughout a paper. To ensure that an informative essay meets these standards, authors need to subject them to a peer review (Palmquist & Wallraff, 2020). In turn, this writing exercise involves giving a written document to friends, a mentor, or an instructor to determine a paper’s quality. Finally, if they highlight mistakes and errors, it is an indication that students need to revise and edit their work accordingly.

Step 5: Writing a Final Draft

A last stage of organizing an informative essay is writing a final draft. Basically, it is a document students submit to relevant authorities for assessment (Matthews, 2023). In this case, final papers represent a culmination of a writing process. However, since mistakes are natural when writing any document, authors must read and reread a final draft to be sure it is perfect. Upon being satisfied with a paper’s quality, students submit their informative papers (Matthews, 2023). In article writing, this process culminates with a publication of a written piece in a journal or a website. As such, a last phase of writing an informative essay is revising and editing to ensure clarity, accuracy, and coherence before finalizing a draft.

Informative Essay Outline and Template

A correct outline of an informative essay consists of three major parts: introduction, body, and conclusion. Firstly, an introduction section must conclude with a thesis statement, which becomes a main guide for an entire informative essay (Sherman, 2020). Then, body paragraphs represent ideas that support a central thesis, while a conclusion section captures a person’s concluding thoughts about an informative essay. Generally, a body section, which is a main text, is longer than introduction and conclusion parts in writing. Hence, a simple outline of an informative essay should look like a next template:

Title: Unique Topic

I. Introduction

  • Hook: A compelling opening sentence to grab a reader’s attention.
  • Background Information: Brief context or overview of a chosen topic.
  • Thesis Statement: A clear and concise statement outlining paper’s main points or purpose of an informative essay.

II. Body Paragraph 1

  • Topic Sentence: Introduce a first main point related to a thesis.
  • Supporting Details: Provide facts, examples, or evidence to elaborate on a first topic sentence.
  • Explanation: Clarify how supporting details connect to a first main point.
  • Transition: Smoothly link to a next paragraph.

III. Body Paragraph 2

  • Topic Sentence: Introduce a second main point related to a thesis.
  • Supporting Details: Provide facts, examples, or evidence to elaborate on a second topic sentence.
  • Explanation: Clarify how supporting details connect to a second main point.
  • Transition: Smoothly link to a next paragraph.

IV. Body Paragraph 3

  • Topic Sentence: Introduce a third main point related to a thesis.
  • Supporting Details: Provide facts, examples, or evidence to elaborate on a third topic sentence.
  • Explanation: Clarify how supporting details connect to a third main point.
  • Transition: Smoothly link to a conclusion.

V. Conclusion

  • Restatement of a Thesis: Rephrase a thesis statement in light of the information presented.
  • Summary of Main Points: Briefly recap all key points discussed in body paragraphs.
  • Final Thought: Provide a concluding sentence or insight that leaves a lasting impression on readers.

VI. References

  • List of Sources: Include a properly formatted list of all sources cited in an informative essay, following a required citation style (e.g., APA, MLA, Harvard, Chicago/Turabian, etc.).

Defining Features

Several features define a right outline of an informative essay. Basically, these elements include: an introduction that concludes with a thesis; a body that consists of several paragraphs; and a conclusion that restates a thesis, summarizes main points, and captures writer’s concluding thoughts. For example, to start an informative essay introduction, people begin with a hook that captures a reader’s interest, provide some background on a chosen topic, and end with a clear thesis statement that outlines a paper’s main focus (Palmquist & Wallraff, 2020). In turn, body paragraphs should have topic and concluding sentences.

How to Determine If an Essay Is Informative

When students write an informative essay as per their tutor’s instructions, they should check they have, indeed, presented a good paper. Basically, a standard way in which authors can tell that an essay they have written is informative is by confirming it falls within one of the four main categories (Sherman, 2020). In turn, an informative essay should: define a term, topic, or issue; compare and contrast; analyze data, a problem, or a phenomenon; or provide a how-to guide on a subject.

How an Informative Essay Differs From Other Papers

Generally, there are different types of papers, and an informative essay is one type. Basically, a main feature that differentiates this essay from other types is that its mission is to educate readers (Sherman, 2020). Then, authors focus on providing information that advances an audience’s understanding concerning a topic or an issue. In contrast, an argumentative essay, for example, focuses on defending a position and convincing an audience to adopt a person’s perspective about a topic or an issue.

Structure

As indicated, the main components of an informative essay’s outline are introduction, body, and conclusion sections. About an introduction part, students should introduce a specific topic and a paper’s main agenda (Matthews, 2023). After providing a brief background on a chosen topic, they should develop a thesis statement, which is an introduction’s key defining feature. For example, to write a strong thesis statement for an informative essay, people clearly and concisely state a main topic and specific aspects that an entire paper will cover without expressing an opinion or taking a stance (Sherman, 2020). When it comes to a main body part, key elements are body paragraphs that begin with a topic sentence and a concluding sentence. Consequently, other features that make a body well-developed are transitions and a sandwich rule. Then, transitions are specific words, and they must enhance a natural and logical flow of main ideas (Matthews, 2023). Moreover, a sandwich rule enables authors to offer content between topic and concluding sentences. In turn, this evidence serves to support a central claim authors make in a topic sentence, which should align with a paper’s thesis.

How to Write a Better Introduction

To write an introduction paragraph of an informative essay, people should grab a reader’s attention, provide background information on a specific topic, and present a clear thesis statement outlining a paper’s main focus. Hence, key points to consider are:

  • Narrow an informative essay’s scope.
  • Contextualize a chosen topic by providing background information.
  • Develop a persuasive thesis that captures an audience’s attention.
  • Ensure there is cohesion between a background information and a thesis.
  • Focus on content that aligns with an audience’s level of understanding.
  • Avoid cliché wording.

How to Write Better Body Paragraphs

When it comes to informative essay’s body paragraphs, students should develop three main arguments, each in a separate section. For example, to write an informative paragraph, people start with a clear topic sentence, provide detailed information and evidence to support this claim, and conclude with a sentence that reinforces a main idea (Sherman, 2020). Further on, they must consider two points when writing this part of an informative essay: a target point (thesis) and evidence (supporting facts). As indicated previously, each paragraph should open with a topic sentence that introduces a single idea and informs a paragraph’s content. In turn, such a statement must blend with a target point. What follows is the evidence, which must be credible. Moreover, students must cite academic sources from where they have taken supporting facts.

How to Write a Better Conclusion

When writing a conclusion part of an informative essay, students should restate a central thesis and explain each of their central arguments. Basically, a primary goal should be to advance a unique agenda of their work, and students should avoid introducing new information in this section (Palmquist & Wallraff, 2020). Further on, they should only summarise informative essay’s main points. As a result, authors close with a personal statement that captures their thoughts about a discussed topic, such as suggestions or recommendations. Therefore, to write a correct conclusion for an informative essay, people summarize paper’s main points, restate a central thesis in light of the evidence presented, and provide a final thought or insight to leave a lasting impression on readers.

Informative Essay Example

Informative Topic: The Great Gatsby and the Great War

Introduction

The Great War was a significant moment of disruption of order in different parts of the world. In the United States, the government conscripted young, energetic citizens to military service and sent them to Europe, the War’s battleground. In his masterpiece, The Great Gatsby, F. Scott Fitzgerald makes a case of the devastating effects of the Great War on Americans’ lives, noting how Gatsby, the novel’s main character, lost his lover Daisy and sunk into depression upon returning home.

Body

Background Information on the Great War

The Great War made many American youths leave everything they held dear, including their families and loved ones, to fight a battle in an unfamiliar battleground. By considering the fact that a majority were conscripted into military service, a whole experience altered their lives inexplicably. In this case, the European terrain was terrible, with many soldiers being forced to launch offensive and defensive strategies in conditions that defied human dignity. Moreover, Fitzgerald blames this experience for driving many Americans insane after returning home (Bloom, 2010). What is more shocking or annoying is that the government took no initiative to help veterans to live a dignified life. The novel states how many ended up living in deplorable conditions, even unable to afford basic amenities. Hence, Gatsby’s unique story is heartbreaking.

Gatsby

When Gatsby went to fight in Europe, he was unexpectedly separated from his lover Daisy. Although they corresponded regularly via letters, Daisy eventually got tired of waiting and married Tom Buchanan. In this respect, the Great War cost Gatsby the love of his life. Even more heartbreaking is that after returning home, Gatsby, who was supposed to be an American hero, could not afford to buy civilian clothes. Then, the novel talks of how he struggled to survive from day to day, still dressed in his military attire. On one occasion, Meyer Wolfshiem offered him lunch, and it is said that Gatsby “ate more than four dollars’ worth of food in half an hour” (Bloom, 2010, p. 179). In turn, this description paints a picture of an individual whose dignity has been taken away from him. Therefore, whether it is by the government or circumstances is a matter of personal opinion.

Results of War

Nonetheless, what is clear from this sad story is that the Great War destroyed Gatsby’s life. Basically, with no money or decent living, he could not attract Daisy, even if she was still single (Bloom, 2010). In turn, Gatsby’s story is the story of many Americans whose youth was forcefully taken away, and their adulthood spent in want.

Conclusion

Despite the necessity of the Great War, Fitzgerald paints it as a period in world history that brings back many bad memories for many Americans. In particular, Americans that the government forcefully sent to the battleground lost not only their youth but also many things they held dear. For Gatsby, his service to the nation cost him his relationship with Daisy and took away his pride. Moreover, spending months with his military attire, because he could not afford civilian clothes, was a low moment for him. In turn, by reading Fitzgerald’s masterpiece, one can only conclude that fighting in the Great War was a great price to pay for many young Americans.

Reference

Bloom, H. (Ed.). (2010). F. Scott Fitzgerald’s The Great Gatsby. New York, NY: Infobase Publishing.

What to Include

ElementDescription
DefinitionsClear explanations of key terms and concepts to ensure a reader understands a subject matter.
Facts and StatisticsData and factual information that provide evidence and support for an assigned topic being discussed.
ExamplesSpecific instances or case studies that illustrate critical writing points being made in an informative essay.
ComparisonsComparisons of similar or related topics to highlight differences or similarities relevant to a composition.
Historical ContextBackground information about origins and developments of a chosen topic to provide a deeper understanding.
Expert OpinionsInsights or quotes from authorities or professionals in a chosen field that add credibility to a whole paper.
Processes and ProceduresDetailed descriptions of how something works or crucial steps involved in a particular process.
Causes and EffectsExplanation of some reasons behind certain events or phenomena and their subsequent impacts.
Graphs and ChartsVisual aids that represent data or trends, making complex information easier to comprehend and write about.
CounterargumentsAddressing potential opposing views or misconceptions to strengthen a paper’s objectivity.

Common Mistakes

  • Lack of a Thesis: Failing to include a precise thesis can lead to an unfocused informative essay that lacks direction.
  • Including Personal Opinions: An informative essay should be objective and fact-based, not influenced by personal bias or opinions.
  • Insufficient Research: Relying on limited or poor-quality sources can result in inaccurate or incomplete information.
  • Poor Organization: Without a clear structure, an entire paper can become confusing, making it difficult for readers to follow main points.
  • Overloading With Information: Including too many writing details can overwhelm readers and obscure paper’s main points.
  • Ignoring an Audience: Writing without considering an audience’s knowledge level can lead to either oversimplification or unnecessary complexity.
  • Weak Transitions: Lack of smooth transitions between paragraphs can disrupt an overall paper’s flow of ideas and confuse people.
  • Inadequate Conclusion: A weak conclusion fails to effectively summarize an entire composition and reinforce key points made.
  • Neglecting Proper Citations: Failing to properly cite sources can result in plagiarism and diminish an overall credibility of an informative essay.
  • Grammatical and Typographical Errors: Writing mistakes in grammar and spelling can distract from a whole content and make a paper appear unprofessional.

Summing Up

An informative essay is a type of academic text that provides students with an opportunity to develop and perfect their writing skills. In principle, to write an informational essay, people thoroughly research their chosen topics, organize their findings into a clear structure, and present any piece of information objectively with a strong introduction, well-developed body paragraphs, and a concise conclusion. Like any other essay, an informative paper’s outline has three main parts: introduction, body, and conclusion. When revising an informative essay draft, writers must ensure they have clear and accurate content, logical organization, smooth transitions, and correct grammar and citations. Hence, for writing an informative essay, students should remember:

  • Develop a clear thesis in an introduction paragraph that determines a specific purpose of an informative essay.
  • Open body paragraphs with topic sentences and close them with concluding sentences.
  • Use transitions effectively to foster a natural and logical flow of ideas and arguments.
  • Observe a sandwich rule.
  • Do not offer a personal opinion on a specific subject matter but researched facts.

References

Davidson, M., & Berninger, V. (2015). Informative, compare and contrast, and persuasive essay composing of fifth and seventh graders. Journal of Psychoeducational Assessment, 34(4), 311–321. https://doi.org/10.1177/0734282915604977

Hughes, T. G., Scales, R., & Scales, W. (2021). Writing for comprehension: How does writing influence informational reading comprehension in the elementary classroom? Literacy Practice and Research, 46(2), 1–31. https://doi.org/10.25148/lpr.009639

Matthews, J. (2023). How to write a 5-paragraph essay step-by-step: Step-by-step study skills. Independently Published.

Palmquist, M., & Wallraff, B. (2020). Joining the conversation: A guide for writers. Macmillan Higher Education.

Ray, A. B., Torres, C., & Cao, Y. (2023). Improving informative writing in inclusive and linguistically-diverse elementary classes through self-regulated strategy development. Exceptionality, 31(5), 319–343. https://doi.org/10.1080/09362835.2023.2174119

Sherman, C. K. (2020). The FIX strategy for informative essay writing. Write Turn.

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