Learning the basics is the key to becoming an effective writer and one of the writing fundamentals is learning about the different writing styles. Understanding the different writing styles and knowing when to use them is important in getting your message across to your readers.
Writing style refers to the manner in which a writer expresses themselves. It also has to do with a writer’s choice of words, structure, and tone.
There are four main writing styles, each with a particular purpose.
The 4 Main Writing Styles and When to Use Them
1. Expository Writing
Expository writing is the most common writing style used to explain a process and provide relevant facts to the readers.
Purpose: To explain or inform
Examples:
Textbooks
Instructional manuals
How-to articles
Cookbooks
News stories
Research papers
Academic journals
2. Descriptive Writing
In descriptive writing, the writer uses vivid details to describe an event, place or character in order to allow readers to pictures themselves in the scene.
Purpose: To describe
Examples:
Poems
Journal writing
Diaries
Travel books
3. Persuasive Writing
Persuasive writing, also known as argumentative writing, expresses the writer’s point of view to convince the readers to agree with it or to take action.
Purpose: To convince or influence
Examples:
Advertisements
Cover letters
Letters of recommendation
Editorial newspaper articles
Product reviews
4. Narrative Writing
Narrative writing, also referred to as storytelling, weaves together characters, plot points, conflict, and settings to create a story.
Purpose: To tell a story
Examples:
Novels
Biographies
Autobiographies
Short stories
Anecdotes
The writing style you use doesn't need to be restricted to one particular style; you can incorporate various styles into your writing. What's more important is to think about your goal and what message you want to communicate to your readers.
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Missed the past weeks' Wednesday Writing Tips? Check them out here.