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The 4 Main Types of Writing Styles in English

Sachin

Updated: Mar 14, 2024

Writing style plays a crucial role in effective communication. Hence, to get a good audience base, you need to adhere to 4 Types of Writing Styles in English.

The 4 Types of Writing Styles
4 Types of Writing Styles

If you are aiming to become a writer, then you should follow one of the 4 Main Types of Writing Styles in English.


The reason to follow a writing style is to simply make your Writing consistent, coherent, readable, and effective. While reading your content, the readers must find it easy on their eyes, else no matter how great your content is, it will not be able to serve the purpose it was intended for.



The 4 Main Types of writing styles in English are: Expository, Descriptive, Persuasive, and Narrative. Let's explore them one-by-one.


1. Expository Writing


Expository writing aims to explain and inform. It presents facts and logical information without the author's personal opinions.


Examples of expository writing include:


  • Textbooks

  • Journalism (except for opinion and editorial articles)

  • Business writing

  • Technical writing

  • Essays


For instance, consider this expository paragraph about the construction of bike trails in Happyville, "The municipal government of Happyville unanimously approved the construction of sixty-two miles of bike trails in 2017. Made possible by a new tax levy, the bike trails are expected to help the city reach its sustainability and clean air goals while reducing traffic and congestion. Eighteen trailheads with restrooms and picnic areas have been planned at a variety of access points. The city expects construction to be complete in April 2021."



2. Descriptive Writing


Descriptive writing aims to vividly depict characters, events, places, or sensory experiences. Writers use artistic freedom to engage readers' senses.


Examples of descriptive writing include:


  • Fiction

  • Poetry

  • Advertising

  • Journal and diary writing


Imagine this scene from the Happyville Bike Trail, "The children pedaled leisurely down the Happyville Bike Trail, their giggles and whoops reverberating through the warm spring air. Sweet-scented wildflowers brought an array of color to the gently undulating landscape, tempting the children to dismount now and then so they could lay down in the springy, soft grass."



3. Persuasive Writing


Persuasive writing aims to convince or influence the reader. It presents arguments, opinions, and calls to action.


Examples of persuasive writing include:


  • Opinion pieces

  • Advertisements

  • Speeches

  • Editorials



4. Narrative Writing


Narrative writing tells a story. It can be fictional or based on real experiences.


Examples of narrative writing include:


  • Short stories

  • Novels

  • Biographies

  • Autobiographies



Remember, each type of writing serves a specific purpose, and mastering them allows writers to effectively communicate and engage their audience.


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