In chapter six of the text, Karl Terryberry (2001) discusses expository writing. Expository writing is defined as writing that provides information using patterns of organization to create well-reasoned text (Terryberry, 2001). This means that the information presented in context should meet the expectations of the intended audience. In approaching this style of writing, one needs to use narration to tell their story. By doing this, the writer is able to organize their paper in a chronological, comprehensive order that can be easily followed by the readers.

            I can understand how this style of writing may be misconstrued as unprofessional. I agree with the text in that this is not the case. Narrative writing simply enhances one’s information and portrays it in a manner that can be well understood. By relaying the information in a manner that follows a particular order, and that includes all pertinent details in such order, the writer is able to guide their readers towards the ultimate purpose of the paper. Before beginning any form of writing, it is imperative to understand the expectations that need to be met. These expectations pertain to the audience and not just the writer.

            Such expectations include details such as: who was involved, what happened, where it happened, and how it happened (Terryberry, 2001). This list is does not involve all that should be included, however it is a great start when thinking about how to craft one’s paper. By using these events, the writer is able to start chronicling their information and from there they can add further detail and explanation. Alongside this, it is important to determine the ultimate purpose of the paper before beginning. It is difficult to write any length of information if one is unsure of their purpose or where they would like their story to go. The best way to go about discovering this purpose is to create a thesis. Creating a thesis will serve as a reminder and as a guide to the main intention of the paper.

            Another important aspect of expository writing is determining the point of view. As with any writing, it is important to stick to the same point of view throughout the document. I have read several papers that have struggled with this concept. When the author alternates between different points of view, it is extremely difficult for the reader to follow and remain engaged. I, too, have had struggles with this due to not fully understanding the proper occasions for the different points of view. There are times I feel a paper should be expressed in first person, but then other parts of the paper feel as though they should be expressed differently. Thus, it is important to choose the point of view prior to beginning writing.

            Also included in this chapter is the importance of description. Description is what paints the picture for the audience. Writers are able to express feelings, sights, sounds, etc. through their choice of words and their way of expressing detail. No story can be told without describing the events that take place. The text informs us that there are two different types of descriptions. Objective description is what reports the information without interpretation. This means that the events are presented straight-forward, as they are. Subjective description presents the information through what is referred to as an interpretive lens. This means the writer includes their feelings and/or impressions on what is being described.

            These are a few of the main concepts I gathered from this chapter. This information is relevant to my field of study as I need to develop the writing skills that will be interpreted as both professional and conclusive. I understand that regardless of how many times we work on a document; there is always room for further improvement and modification. Thus, by incorporating the main aspects of expository writing, I will have more success in portraying my purpose and inspiring my audience.

References

Terryberry, K. (2005). Writing for the health professions. Clifton Park, NY: Delmar, Cengage