What Is Expository Writing?

Expository writing is the foundation of journalism and news writing since its focus is to provide information to readers, assuming they have no prior familiarity with the subject. Each time a writer -- whether he is a student, a journalist, a business writer or anyone writing to inform an audience -- sits down to write an expository essay, article or post, it is important to focus on providing the basic facts while creating a clear picture for readers.

The key to successful expository writing -- for both author and reader -- results in the reader learning something new that spurs them to investigate further and learn more about the topic. The author might approach this type of writing through straightforward description, a sequential listing of items, a comparison of two or more items, a list of causes and effects or a set of problems and solutions related to the topic.

Expository writing is not relegated to non-fiction. Students in literature classes learn about exposition and background information in fictional works. This exposition delivers important facts and information for readers about the characters, setting and events that have led to the current developments in the story. The volume of expository information that the author offers readers in fiction is less important than its relevance to the story and actions of the characters in the story.