Explanatory Essay Outline : Explanatory Essay Structure

Explanatory Essay Outline

An explanatory essay is a type of essay that describes your views or opinions on a particular topic. You are required to offer explanations to your audience about the topic in question in an explanatory essay. You should not include any form of criticism or argument while offering explanations in the essay.

The following is an explanatory essay outline:

Explanatory Essay Outline

1. Introduction

The explanatory essay introduction is made up of three main components:

• A hook. Used to grab the readers’ attention. This can be an interesting fact, relevant quote, or anything that would captivate the readers’ attention.
• Background information.  Offer any necessary background information that may not seem like general knowledge. This will help paint a clear picture for the reader to follow.  
• A thesis statement. Used to fixate the focus of your essay. This should eliminate any confusion about what will be discussed in the body.

2. Body Paragraphs

The body should contain three paragraphs, each with their point of approach. However, the general style of each body paragraph is identical.

• Present a topic sentence that precisely explains what information you will be introducing.
• Ensure that there is a smooth transition from the previous point to the next when writing each sentence.
• Present a position or claim that directly supports the thesis. Ensure that the connection is evident, so that your readers can easily understand your explanation. 
•  Present the evidence found from the research you have carried out. This will validate your claims and enforce your position. 
• Present a concluding statement that summarizes the significance of the claim in regards to the thesis statement.

3. Conclusion

• Restate your thesis statement.
• Summarize your three supporting points presented in the body paragraphs accordingly.
• Offer an overall concluding statement.

Tips For Writing An Explanatory Essay Outline

You can follow the following tips to be able to write your explanatory essay effectively:

• Carry out proper research. You should ensure that you collect enough data and information to draft the explanatory essay. The information in this essay should be a blend of both personal views and ideas acquired from external sources. You should find external sources that will supplement your personal opinions.
• Develop a clear thesis. This will make it easier for your audience to understand the content of the topic from a summarized point of view.
• Understand the meaning of an explanatory essay. It is neither an argumentative nor a critical essay since it only develops points from a neutral perspective. You are not supposed to take any side as that causes a loss in the outlook of an explanatory essay.
• Choose a well-understandable topic. Assuming your professor has not given you a specific topic; ensure that you choose one that is in-line with your assignment.