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How to write an exploratory essay [Updated 2023]
Unlike other types of essays, the exploratory essay does not present a specific argument or support a claim with evidence. Instead, an exploratory essay allows a writer to "explore" a topic and consider tentative conclusions about it. This article covers what you need to know to write a successful exploratory essay.
What is an exploratory essay?
An exploratory essay considers a topic or problem and explores possible solutions. This type of paper also sometimes includes background about how you have approached the topic, as well as information about your research process.
Whereas other types of essays take a concrete stance on an issue and offer extensive support for that stance, the exploratory essay covers how you arrived at an idea and what research materials and methods you used to explore it.
For example, an argumentative essay on expanding public transportation might argue that increasing public transit options improves citizens' quality of life. However, an exploratory essay would provide context for the issue and discuss what data and research you gathered to consider the problem.
What to include in an exploratory essay
Importantly, an exploratory essay does not reach a specific conclusion about a topic. Rather, it explores multiple conclusions and possibilities. So, for the above example, your exploratory essay might include several viewpoints about public transit, including research from urban planners, transportation advocates, and other experts.
Finally, an exploratory essay will include some reflection on your own research and writing process. You might be asked to draw some conclusions about how you could tackle your topic in an argumentative essay or you might reflect on what sources or pieces of evidence were most helpful as you were exploring the topic.
Ultimately, the primary goal of an exploratory essay is to make an inquiry about a topic or problem, investigate the context, and address possible solutions.
What to expect in an exploratory essay assignment
This section discusses what you can expect in an exploratory essay assignment, in terms of length, style, and sources. Instructors may also provide you with an exploratory essay example or an assignment rubric to help you determine if your essay meets the appropriate guidelines .
The expected length of an exploratory essay varies depending on the topic, course subject, and course level. For instance, an exploratory essay assigned in an upper-level sociology course will likely be longer than a similar assignment in an introductory course.
Like other essay types, exploratory essays typically include at least five paragraphs, but most range from a few pages to the length of a full research paper .
While exploratory essays will generally follow academic style guidelines, they differ from other essays because they tend to utilize a more reflective, personal tone. This doesn't mean that you can cast off academic style rules, however.
Rather, think of an exploratory essay as a venue for presenting your topic and methods to a sympathetic and intelligent audience of fellow researchers. Most importantly, make sure that your writing is clear, correct, and concise.
As an exploration of your approach to a topic, an exploratory essay will necessarily incorporate research material. As a result, you should expect to include a bibliography or references page with your essay. This page will list both the sources that you cite in your essay, as well as any sources that you may have consulted during your research process.
The citation style of your essay's bibliography will vary based on the subject of the course. For example, an exploratory essay for a sociology class will probably adhere to APA style , while an essay in a history class might use Chicago style .
Exploratory essay outline and format
An exploratory essay utilizes the same basic structure that you'll find in other essays. It includes an introduction, body paragraphs, and a conclusion. The introduction sets up the context for your topic, addresses why that topic is worthy of study, and states your primary research question(s).
The body paragraphs cover the research that you've conducted and often include overviews of the sources that you've consulted. The conclusion returns to your research question and considers possible solutions.
- Introduction
The introduction of an exploratory essay functions as an overview. In this section, you should provide context for your topic, explain why the topic is important, and state your research question:
- Context includes general information about the topic. This part of the introduction may also outline, or signpost, what the rest of the paper will cover.
- Topic importance helps readers "buy in" to your research. A few sentences that address the question, "so what?" will enable you to situate your research within an ongoing debate.
- The last part of of your introduction should clearly state your research question. It's okay to have more than one, depending on the assignment.
If you were writing an exploratory essay on public transportation, you might start by briefly introducing the recent history of public transit debates. Next, you could explain that public transportation research is important because it has a concrete impact on our daily lives. Finally, you might end your introduction by articulating your primary research questions.
While some individuals may choose not to utilize public transportation, decisions to expand or alter public transit systems affect the lives of all. As a result of my preliminary research, I became interested in exploring whether public transportation systems improve citizens' quality of life. In particular, does public transit only improve conditions for those who regularly use these systems? Or, do improvements in public transportation positively impact the quality of life for all individuals within a given city or region? The remainder of this essay explores the research around these questions and considers some possible conclusions.
Body paragraphs
The body paragraphs of an exploratory essay discuss the research process that you used to explore your topic. This section highlights the sources that you found most useful and explains why they are important to the debate.
You might also use the body paragraphs to address how individual resources changed your thinking about your topic. Most exploratory essays will have several body paragraphs.
One source that was especially useful to my research was a 2016 study by Richard J. Lee and Ipek N. Sener that considers the intersections between transportation planning and quality of life . They argue that, while planners have consistently addressed physical health and well-being in transportation plans, they have not necessarily factored in how mental and social health contributes to quality of life. Put differently, transportation planning has traditionally utilized a limited definition of quality of life and this has necessarily impacted data on the relationship between public transit and quality of life. This resource helped me to broaden my conception of quality of life to include all aspects of human health. It also enabled me to better understand the stakeholders involved in transportation decisions.
Your conclusion should return to the research question stated in your introduction. What are some possible solutions to your questions, based on the sources that you highlighted in your essay? While you shouldn't include new information in your conclusion, you can discuss additional questions that arose as you were conducting your research.
In my introduction, I asked whether public transit improves quality of life for all, not simply for users of public transportation. My research demonstrates that there are strong connections between public transportation and quality of life, but that researchers differ as to how quality of life is defined. Many conclude that public transit improves citizens' lives, but it is still not clear how public transit decisions affect non-users, since few studies have focused on this distinct group. As a result, I believe that more research is needed to answer the research questions that I posed above.
Frequently Asked Questions about exploratory essays
You should begin an exploratory essay by introducing the context for your topic, explaining the topic's importance, and outlining your original research question.
Like other types of essays, the exploratory essay has three primary parts:
Although an exploratory essay does not make a specific argument, your research question technically serves as your thesis.
Yes, you can use "I" throughout your paper. An exploratory essay is meant to explore your own research process, so a first-person perspective is appropriate.
You should end your exploratory essay with a succinct conclusion that returns to your research question and considers possible answers. You can also end by highlighting further questions you may have about your research.
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Exploratory Essay: The A to Z Guide
01 November, 2020
14 minutes read
Author: Kate Smith
An exploratory essay, the most fun-filled essay writing, differs from every other essay. Here, there is no need for additional research; instead, you explore your ideas and the ideas of others. An exploratory essay entails speculation, digression, and rumination.
Unlike other forms of writing, this essay does not try to impose its thesis on its reader. To write an excellent exploratory essay, you would need to stick to its outline, thinking deeply about the topic. This article will help you understand an exploratory essay definition, and walk you through the building blocks to writing an outstanding exploratory essay.
What is an Exploratory Essay?
An exploratory essay, also called an investigative piece, is a speculatively written essay. Here, the writer peruses over the various overviews of people regarding an issue or a topic. Afterward, they walk through the problem, and air their view without refuting or drawing a biased conclusion.
This type of essay tables the different perspectives of people on a topic from a neutral angle, and at the same time, highlights their mutual understanding. To deliver a great essay, you need to think introspectively about the topic and not delve into idle speculation. An exploratory essay requires that you first reflect on the subject of discussion.
In real cases, sentiments may cloud your judgment, especially when you’re very passionate about the topic. You’re most likely to rush to a conclusion or try to influence others’ opinions without hearing their takes on the matter. An exploratory essay sets to beat this fashion.
It is advisable to consider the rationale of at least three persons on a topic, an event, or an issue as you can make a thorough presentation with detailed logical reasonings this way. Limiting your investigation to a few relevant sources may result in making only similar findings. Diversity creates spice in your presentation!
Exploratory Questions: Types
Having a clear understanding of the information you aim to get helps you stay on track while carrying out your investigation. Here are the types of exploratory questions you need to ask when writing this essay:
Fact questions
Convergent questions, divergent questions, evaluative questions.
A fact question usually has an exact answer. It is the “who…?” “what…? “where…?” and “when….?” question. This question aims to confirm the parties involved in the topic/event/issue, what incited the problem, if there is a case for a geographical problem, and answers if there was a similar case in the past to analyze the possibility of a future recurrence.
Example: Who invented the payphone?
Though similar to a fact question, a convergent question differs in that it calls for a lengthier explanation than those mentioned above. However, like a fact question, it has an exact answer. It often starts with words like: “according to,” “why,” and “how.”
Example: According to most health scientists, what factor is most responsible for the coronavirus’ fast spread?
A divergent question or an idea question aims to incite people’s reasoning to hear their ideas on a topic. It can have many acceptable answers. This question often starts with words like: “what if,” “how would,” “how could.”
Example: How would you brew your coffee fast if your espresso machine broke down?
Also known as the opinion question, this question aims to provoke more detailed opinions to rule out judgment on a topic/issue. It may start with words like: “how well,” “do you think,” and “why should.”
Example: Do you think the lack of social amenities in a state is a result of poorly generated revenue or mismanagement?
Exploratory Essay Outline
Essay outlines help you organize your thoughts and structure your paragraphs better to avoid leaving out any relevant information while writing.
An excellent exploratory essay should follow this pattern:
- Introduction,
- Body paragraphs,
- Conclusion.
The essay Introduction
An introduction serves as a hook to gain the reader’s attention and keep them focused until the writing ends. This introduction must be informative, eye-catching, and promising. It should make the reader feel they would be missing out on vital information if they don’t remain engaged until the end.
This introduction should also outline the scope, describe the issue or topic being addressed, highlight its challenges, and include a brief overview of your approach to tackling the problem. This approach will have your reader yearning to know more.
A disorganized, vague, and error-filled introduction creates an overall wrong impression about your writing. Starting your essay on such a wrong foot can cause your reader’s interest level to drop! Achieving this might appear a bit difficult, and so, below are some hacks to writing a persuasive introduction:
- Start with a fascinating story related to the topic: Telling a story that connects with your readers’ emotions automatically buys their interest.
- Make the issue being tackled appear critical
- Describe the issue discussed as an unresolved puzzle: The problem-solving nature of humans would also leap to solve this riddle; that way, they will stay hooked to your essay.
- Cite a captivating quote
- Pose a thought-provoking question or series of questions: Provocative questions challenge accepted thesis and stir the reader to rethink.
- Use statistics: Quoting reputable sources, describing past events, and how long the issue has lingered also does the trick.
Body Paragraphs
After the introduction, next comes the body of the essay. The body paragraphs extensively explain the highlighted scope, context, background information, and purpose of the topic under investigation. This part of the essay is divided into two segments:
The body: Part one
The body: part two.
The first part of the body aims to answer and clarify the following:
- What the issue or problem is
- The level at which this issue has escalated
- The groups discussing the issue
- The persons that have made the topic to be of utmost importance to them
- Past opinions from many authors
- If the writer shares the same views with any of its readers
- If there is any force repressing the audience from expressing their beliefs
- What the issue has demanded overtime
- The evolution of its pitch of interest and the values it passes across
In complementing the first part of the body, this second part gives room to air people’s diverse views. It aims to explain why they understand the situation from the angle represented in the essay. In tabling their thoughts, you should take note of the following when writing:
- Elaborate their view on the issue
- Why they have such perspective
- State the cases that pitched their opinions to these
- Support their perspectives with facts
- Compare their diverse points of view
Tips on writing impressive body paragraphs:
- Start each paragraph with a topic sentence, usually the main point of interest in a paragraph, and stress this sentence.
- Back this main interest for each paragraph up with facts, quotes, or data. These act as supporting points to give more meaning to the main point and lead to a logical conclusion.
- Try to balance the number of sentences for each paragraph where possible and where not possible, achieve a closer number. Underwritten paragraphs may appear to the reader as having underdeveloped points and vice versa.
Essay conclusion
An exploratory essay conclusion does not imply a repetition of the summary of your findings. In drawing your conclusion in this essay, you should state your contribution to the issue being discussed while maintaining a neutral tone about others’ perspectives.
In the same manner, as you’ve done in the essay body, support your claims with arguments. In most cases, people tend to think that you summarise and support one argument/ opinion while concluding. This is far from the case.
While concluding, discuss your reflections and why you think there is a need for further research on the topic you just explored. Also, give your readers the impression that you are delighted to keep it going. It is excellent to end by calling your readers or audience to action.
When drawing your conclusion, you should avoid:
- Stuffing it with unnecessary information. You should be concise while stating your insights, evaluation, and analysis.
- Statements like, “There may be other better methods” or “Better approaches to this issue state that…” These phrases undermine confidence in your opinion.
- Derailing from the initial subject of discussion. Ensure your conclusion is in line with your introduction’s objectives.
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Exploratory Essay Examples
Do not be deterred. Writing an exploratory essay isn’t as tedious as it may sound. Below are some great examples of exploratory essays you can study to learn the narration style:
- https://www.thoughtco.com/battle-of-ants-henry-david-thoreau-1690218
- https://www.thoughtco.com/how-it-feels-to-be-colored-me-by-zora-neale-hurston-1688772
30 Exploratory Essay Topics
Another aspect you may need help with is finding topics for exploratory essays. While you may feel tempted to pick any topic for discussing randomly, a good exploratory essay question should tick the following boxes:
- Must be arguable
- Must be unresolved
- There should be resources and facts to back people’s opinion
- Choose a topic that lies within your strength
- Must touch an exciting topic
There is a wide range of categories to choose a topic from. Exploratory essay topics can be crafted on :
- Entertainment
- Music & Arts
- Religion, among others.
The following make for good exploratory essay topics:
- Children with distant parents tend to grow more independent than ones inhabiting with theirs.
- The chain of divorce extends to the children.
- Handling a mobile phone at an early age inhibits a child’s creativity.
- Smartphones result in poor communication through speech.
- How does technology curb job opportunities
- Social media increases the rate of depression and anxiety among teens.
- Shelving pints of milk extend the life span.
- Professional sports affect the player’s psychological well-being.
- Is Opera overrated?
- Actors pose to be the best role models.
- Is e-learning the solution to poor teaching techniques?
- Do graphic sex and scenes influence the high rate of rape?
- What is the possibility you have a doppelganger on earth?
- What don’t women buy into the surrogacy idea when conceiving proves difficult?
- Does diversity in a workplace increase productivity?
- The maximum amount of money that guarantees happiness
- Which is healthier for newborn babies: processed or breast milk?
- Who suffers during divorce the most: the husband, wife, children, or close relatives?
- Who always seeks divorce: men or women?
- Why don’t inter-tribal marriages work out?
- Do marathon races impair the body muscles?
- Does a high concentration of plastics increase the greenhouse effect in our environment?
- Is nuclear energy the future of energy resources?
- How important is it to cite heavy industries away from the residential areas?
- Will technology ease out the work stress or worsen the situation?
- Which makes for easy reading: hard copy or soft copies?
- What is the best online dating app?
- How does the chemistry between same-sex form?
- Who is the blame for the high rate of immigration? Friends? or The government?
- Who shows the most moral decadence: boys or girls?
Writing Tips for an Exploratory Essay
Without knowing the right mountaineering tricks, the summit will look unreachable. The same goes for this writing. Without adhering to these tips, you may never know how to write an exploratory essay.
Now note the following tips to land your five-star essay:
- Try to hear as many diverse perspectives as possible.
- Note your findings
- Reflect deeply on the topic
- Stick to the outline as mentioned earlier when writing
- Include pictorial representations to back up claims, if there are any
- Write from the third-person perspective, except when told not to
- Take time to proofread and also have a second eye go over the essay for you.
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exploratory essay
Glossary of Grammatical and Rhetorical Terms
- An Introduction to Punctuation
- Ph.D., Rhetoric and English, University of Georgia
- M.A., Modern English and American Literature, University of Leicester
- B.A., English, State University of New York
An exploratory essay is a short work of nonfiction in which a writer works through a problem or examines an idea or experience, without necessarily attempting to back up a claim or support a thesis . In the tradition of the Essays of Montaigne (1533-1592), an exploratory essay tends to be speculative, ruminative, and digressive.
William Zeiger has characterized the exploratory essay as open : "[I]t is easy to see that expository composition —writing whose great virtue is to confine the reader to a single, unambiguous line of thought—is closed , in the sense of permitting, ideally, only one valid interpretation. An 'exploratory' essay, on the other hand, is an open work of nonfiction prose . It cultivates ambiguity and complexity to allow more than one reading or response to the work." ("The Exploratory Essay: Enfranchising the Spririt of Enquiry in College Composition." College English , 1985)
Examples of Exploratory Essays
Here are some exploratory essays by famous authors:
- "The Battle of the Ants," by Henry David Thoreau
- "How It Feels to Be Colored Me," by Zora Neale Hurston
- " Naturalization," by Charles Dudley Warner
- "New Year's Eve," by Charles Lamb
- "Street Haunting: A London Adventure," by Virginia Woolf
Examples and Observations:
- "The expository essay tries to prove all of its contentions, while the exploratory essay prefers to probe connections. Exploring links between personal life, cultural patterns, and the natural world, this essay leaves space for readers to reflect on their own experience, and invites them into a conversation..." (James J. Farrell, The Nature of College . Milkweed, 2010)
- "I have in mind a student writing whose model is Montaigne or Byron or DeQuincey or Kenneth Burke or Tom Wolfe...The writing is informed by associational thinking, a repertory of harlequin changes, by the resolution that resolution itself is anathema. This writer writes to see what happens." (William A. Covino, The Art of Wondering: A Revisionist Return to the History of Rhetoric . Boynton/Cook, 1988)
Montaigne on the Origin of the Essays
"Recently I retired to my estates, determined to devote myself as far as I could to spending what little life I have left quietly and privately; it seemed to me then that the greatest favour I could do for my mind was to leave it in total idleness, caring for itself, concerned only with itself, calmly thinking of itself. I hoped it could do that more easily from then on since with the passage of time it had grown mature and put on weight. "But I find—
Variam semper dant otia mentis [Idleness always produces fickle changes of mind]*
—that, on the contrary, it bolted off like a runaway horse, taking far more trouble over itself than it ever did over anyone else; it gives birth to so many chimeras and fantastic monstrosities, one after another, without order or fitness, that, so as to contemplate at my ease their oddness and their strangeness, I began to keep a record of them, hoping in time to make my mind ashamed of itself." (Michel de Montaigne, "On Idleness." The Complete Essays , trans. by M.A. Screech. Penguin, 1991)
*Note: Montaigne's terms are the technical ones of melancholy madness.
Characteristics of the Exploratory Essay
"In the quotation from Montaigne [above], we have several of the characteristics of the exploratory essay : First, it is personal in subject matter , finding its topic in a subject that is of deep interest to the writer. Second, it is personal in approach , revealing aspects of the writer as the subject at hand illuminates them. The justification for this personal approach rests in part on the assumption that all people are similar; Montaigne implies that, if we look honestly and deeply into any person, we will find truths appropriate to all people. Each of us is humankind in miniature. Third, notice the extended use of figurative language (in this case the simile comparing his mind to a runaway horse). Such language is also characteristic of the exploratory essay." (Steven M. Strang, Writing Exploratory Essays: From Personal to Persuasive . McGraw-Hill, 1995)
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How to Write an Exploratory Essay
Table of Contents
Introduction to Exploratory Essays
Definition and purpose.
An exploratory essay is a unique type of writing that explores a topic by probing into its various aspects, often without a definitive stance. The main purpose is to examine an idea or issue from multiple angles, rather than persuading or arguing for a single point of view.
Differences from Other Academic Writing
Unlike argumentative or persuasive essays, exploratory essays:
- Aim for a broader understanding rather than a narrow argument.
- Pose questions and explore them in depth.
- Present a neutral stance initially, often becoming more focused as the essay progresses.
Choosing a Topic
Selecting an engaging and manageable topic.
To choose a topic for your exploratory essay:
- Consider your interests : Pick a subject you are curious about.
- Ensure relevance : Ensure the topic is relevant to your assignment or field of study.
- Seek originality : Look for angles that haven’t been over-explored.
Strategies for Narrowing Down a Broad Subject
- Break it down : Divide the subject into smaller segments.
- Focus on a question : Formulate a central question to guide your exploration.
- Consider the scope : Make sure the topic is neither too broad nor too narrow.
Research Methods
Overview of primary and secondary research.
- Primary Research : Involves collecting data firsthand, e.g., interviews, surveys, experiments.
- Secondary Research : Consists of gathering information from existing sources, e.g., books, articles, journals.
Tips for Gathering Information and Keeping Track of Sources
- Start broadly : Begin with a general search to familiarize yourself with the topic.
- Use credible sources : Look for academic or peer-reviewed articles.
- Keep a research log : Document your sources, including authors, titles, and page numbers for citations.
- Be organized : Use digital tools or index cards to sort your findings by theme or category.
Structure and Outline
The importance of an outline.
Creating an outline is a crucial step in essay writing. It:
- Serves as a roadmap : Helps guide your writing process.
- Ensures coherence : Keeps your essay organized and focused.
- Saves time : Reduces the need for extensive revisions.
Components of an Exploratory Essay
- Introduction : Introduces the topic, sets the tone, and presents the central question.
- Body : Explores different aspects of the topic through sections and paragraphs.
- Conclusion : Summarizes the exploration and may hint at a personal stance or further questions.
Organizing the Body of an Essay
- Context : Provide background information to set the stage for your exploration.
- Positions : Discuss various viewpoints or findings related to the topic.
- Personal Interpretation : Reflect on the presented information and provide your own insights.
Writing Process
Drafting tips for exploratory writing.
- Be open-minded : Allow your findings to guide your writing direction.
- Maintain structure : Follow your outline to stay on track.
- Use signposting : Clearly indicate the transition from one idea to another.
Balancing Exploration with Coherence
- Stay focused : Keep the central question in mind.
- Connect the dots : Ensure each paragraph contributes to the overall exploration.
- Be concise : Avoid lengthy digressions.
Revision and Editing
Techniques for revising content for clarity and flow.
- Read aloud : Helps identify awkward phrasing and inconsistencies.
- Seek feedback : Others can provide valuable insights on the essay’s clarity.
- Restructure : Don’t be afraid to rearrange sections for better logical flow.
Proofreading Strategies to Eliminate Errors
- Take breaks : Fresh eyes catch errors more effectively.
- Check format : Ensure consistency in headings, citations, and references.
- Use tools : Grammar checkers can be helpful, but don’t rely on them exclusively.
Remember, exploratory essays are about the journey of discovery, so embrace the process as you write, revise, and edit your work.
Citation and Ethics
Properly citing sources.
To properly cite sources:
- Follow a specific citation style (APA, MLA, Chicago, etc.), as required by your field or assignment.
- Include in-text citations whenever you reference someone else’s work.
- Provide a bibliography or works cited page at the end of your essay.
Avoiding Plagiarism
To avoid plagiarism:
- Paraphrase information with your own words and cite the source.
- Quote directly when the exact wording is necessary and use quotation marks.
- Give credit for all ideas, data, or research that are not your own.
Wrapping Up Effectively
To wrap up an exploratory essay:
- Summarize key points : Briefly recap the various perspectives and your findings.
- Reflect on the process : Share what you’ve learned and how your understanding has evolved.
- Pose further questions : Suggest areas for additional research or questions that have emerged.
Reflecting on the Exploration Process and Findings
- Discuss the journey : Acknowledge how the exploration has affected your perspective.
- Be honest : It’s okay to admit if certain questions remain unresolved.
FAQs or Common Pitfalls
Addressing common questions or issues.
- How many sources should I include? There’s no set number, but ensure you have a diverse range to thoroughly explore the topic.
- Can I express my opinion? Yes, but ensure that you present it as part of the exploration, not as a definitive argument.
How to Avoid Typical Mistakes
- Not defining the scope : Be clear about the extent of your exploration to avoid a scattered essay.
- Over-reliance on sources : Balance the information from sources with your own analysis and reflection.
- Ignoring counterarguments : Acknowledge and consider opposing viewpoints to enrich the exploration.
By paying attention to these aspects of writing, you’ll enhance the quality and integrity of your exploratory essay, and provide a comprehensive discussion on the topic at hand.
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Introductions, Body Paragraphs, and Conclusions for Exploratory Papers
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Many paper assignments call for you to establish a position and defend that position with an effective argument. However, some assignments are not argumentative, but rather, they are exploratory. Exploratory essays ask questions and gather information that may answer these questions. However, the main point of the exploratory or inquiry essay is not to find definite answers. The main point is to conduct inquiry into a topic, gather information, and share that information with readers.
Introductions for Exploratory Essays
The introduction is the broad beginning of the paper that answers three important questions:
- What is this?
- Why am I reading it?
- What do you want me to do?
You should answer these questions in an exploratory essay by doing the following:
- Set the context – provide general information about the main idea, explaining the situation so the reader can make sense of the topic and the questions you will ask
- State why the main idea is important – tell the reader why they should care and keep reading. Your goal is to create a compelling, clear, and educational essay people will want to read and act upon
- State your research question – compose a question or two that clearly communicate what you want to discover and why you are interested in the topic. An overview of the types of sources you explored might follow your research question.
If your inquiry paper is long, you may want to forecast how you explored your topic by outlining the structure of your paper, the sources you considered, and the information you found in these sources. Your forecast could read something like this:
In order to explore my topic and try to answer my research question, I began with news sources. I then conducted research in scholarly sources, such as peer-reviewed journals. Lastly, I conducted an interview with a primary source. All these sources gave me a better understanding of my topic, and even though I was not able to fully answer my research questions, I learned a lot and narrowed my subject for the next paper assignment, the problem-solution report.
For this OWL resource, the example exploratory process investigates a local problem to gather more information so that eventually a solution may be suggested.
Identify a problem facing your University (institution, students, faculty, staff) or the local area and conduct exploratory research to find out as much as you can on the following:
- Causes of the problem and other contributing factors
- People/institutions involved in the situation: decision makers and stakeholders
- Possible solutions to the problem.
You do not have to argue for a solution to the problem at this point. The point of the exploratory essay is to ask an inquiry question and find out as much as you can to try to answer your question. Then write about your inquiry and findings.
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How to write a Exploratory Essays
Carla johnson.
- June 13, 2023
- How to Guides
Exploratory essays are a type of academic writing that lets the writer look at a subject or topic from many different points of view. Exploratory essays are different from other types of essays because they don’t try to prove a certain point of view or have a thesis statement. On the other hand, exploratory essays look into a topic, find different points of view, and give a full analysis. The goal of an exploratory essay is to learn a lot about a topic and show how it fits into the world as a whole. It gives the writer a chance to look into a subject, compare different points of view, and come up with results that can lead to more research and discussion. Exploratory essays are important because they teach students how to think critically, be open-minded, and improve their writing and research skills . This article will show you how to write exploratory essays by giving you tips, examples, and ideas for what to write about. We’ll talk about how to choose a topic, how to do research and analyze different points of view, and how to structure and write an effective exploratory essay. By the end of this article, you’ll know how to write a good exploratory essay that looks at a topic from different points of view. We’ll talk about what an exploratory essay is, what it’s for, and why it’s important to look at things from different points of view in the sections that follow.
What You'll Learn
Definition of an Exploratory Essay
An exploratory essay is a type of academic writing that looks at a topic from different points of view and doesn’t have a thesis statement. The goal of an exploratory essay is to look into a topic, compare different points of view, and present findings that can lead to more research and discussion. This kind of essay is often given in school to help students think more critically and be more open-minded. Argumentative essays are about arguing for a certain point of view, but exploratory essays are not about that. Instead, they are about learning more about a subject and seeing how different people see it. The point of an exploratory essay is not to get the reader to agree with a certain point of view. They are instead meant to give a complete look at a subject.
Purpose of an Exploratory Essay
The goal of an exploratory essay is to learn a lot about a topic and show how it fits into the world as a whole. The goal of the essay is to look into a topic , compare different points of view, and show results that can lead to more research and discussion. Exploratory essays are often assigned in school to help students learn to think critically and keep an open mind. You can also use exploratory essays to look into hard problems or topics that don’t have a clear answer. Exploratory essays can shed light on a topic by looking at it from different angles and analyzing different points of view. This could lead to more study or talk.
Importance of Exploring Different Perspectives
It’s important for writers to look at things from different points of view because it helps them understand a subject or topic better. By looking at things from different points of view, writers can learn new things and get a better understanding of the topic they are writing about. Exploring different points of view also helps people be more open-minded and think more critically . It gets writers to think about different points of view and question their own biases and assumptions. This is especially important in academic writing, where the goal is to carefully analyze things to find the truth and learn more. Also, looking at things from different angles can help you find new things and come up with new ideas. It can lead to more research and discussion, and it can help people understand a topic in a more nuanced and complex way. Exploratory essays are a type of academic writing that lets the writer look at a subject or topic from many different points of view. The goal of an exploratory essay is to look into a topic, compare different points of view, and present results that can lead to more research and discussion. Exploring different points of view is important because it helps people be more open-minded and think more critically. It can also lead to new insights and discoveries. In the sections that follow, we’ll show you how to write exploratory essays by giving you tips, examples, and ideas for topics .
Elements of an Exploratory Essay
To write a good exploratory essay, you need to know what the most important parts of this type of essay are. Here are the most important parts of an exploratory essay::
Introduction: The introduction of an exploratory essay should provide some background information on the topic being explored and set the stage for the rest of the essay. It should also include a clear statement of the exploratory questions being investigated.
Background Information: This section of the essay provides context and background information on the topic being explored. It may include definitions, historical information, or relevant statistics .
Exploratory Questions : These are the central questions that the essay seeks to answer. These questions are often open-ended and designed to encourage critical thinking and exploration.
Exploratory Research: This section of the essay involves researching and analyzing different perspectives on the topic being explored. It may involve reading articles, conducting interviews, or analyzing data.
Body Paragraphs: The body paragraphs of an exploratory essay should present different perspectives on the topic being explored. Each paragraph should focus on a different perspective and provide evidence to support that perspective.
Conclusion: The conclusion of an exploratory essay should summarize the main findings and insights of the essay. It should also highlight any unanswered questions or areas that require further exploration .
How to Choose a Topic for an Exploratory Essay
Choosing a topic for an exploratory essay can be challenging, but there are several strategies that can help. The following are sometips on how to choose a topic for an exploratory essay:
Brainstorming Techniques: Start by brainstorming potential topics and ideas . This can be done by free-writing, mind mapping, or listing out potential topics.
Analyzing Different Perspectives: Consider a topic that has multiple perspectives or viewpoints. This can help you explore different perspectives and provide a comprehensive analysis.
Researching Potential Topics: Conduct research on potential topics to see if there is enough information available to explore the topic in depth. This can also help you identify different perspectives and potential exploratory questions.
Selecting a Topic that Interests You: Choose a topic that is important to you and that you are interested in. This can keep you interested and motivated while you do your research and write your paper. Once you have an idea for a topic , you should narrow it down and come up with a clear research question or set of exploratory questions. This will help you stay on track and make sure that your essay covers the topic in depth. It can be hard to choose a topic for an exploratory essay. But you can find a topic that is both interesting and informative by using brainstorming techniques, analyzing different points of view, researching possible topics, and choosing a topic that interests you. You can write a good exploratory essay that gives a thorough analysis of the topic by coming up with clear exploratory questions and doing thorough research.
Exploratory Essay Outline
An outline is a helpful tool for organizing your thoughts and ideas before you start writing your exploratory essay. The following is a basic outline for an exploratory essay:
Introduction:
– Introduce the topic
– Provide some background information
– Present the exploratory questions being investigated
– Thesis statement (optional)
Body Paragraphs:
– Present different perspectives on the topic being explored
– Provide evidence to support each perspective
– Analyze the strengths and weaknesses of each perspective
– Present any unanswered questions or areas that require further exploration
Conclusion:
– Summarize the main findings and insights of the essay
– Highlight any unanswered questions or areas that require further exploration
– Emphasize the importance of exploring different perspectives
Exploratory Essay Structure
The structure of an exploratory essay is similar to other types of essays, but with some key differences. The following is a basic structure for an exploratory essay:
Thesis statement (optional): In some cases, an exploratory essay may have a thesis statement, but it is not required.
– Explain the significance of exploring different perspectives
-Summarize the main findings and insights of the essay
– Conclude with a final thought or recommendation for further research or action
When writing an exploratory essay, it’s important to keep an open mind and not take sides. The goal is to show different points of view without taking a side or trying to get the reader to agree with one point of view. You can write a good exploratory essay that looks at a topic from different points of view by using clear and concise language, giving evidence to support each point of view, and analyzing the pros and cons of each point of view.
Exploratory Essay Examples
Exploratory essays can cover a wide range of topics and subjects. Here are some examples of exploratory essay topics:
Example 1: The Impact of Social Media on Mental Health
– Explores the effects of social media on mental health and well-being
– Investigates different perspectives on the issue, including the positive and negative effects of social media
– Analyzes the role of social media in shaping our behavior and attitudes
Example 2: The Pros and Cons of Online Learning
– Explores the benefits and drawbacks of online learning
– Investigates different perspectives on the issue, including the impact of online learning on student engagement , motivation, and learning outcomes
– Analyzes the role of technology in education and the potential implications of online learning on traditional classroom settings
Example 3: The Ethics of Genetic Engineering
– Explores the ethical implications of genetic engineering and genetic modification
– Investigates different perspectives on the issue, including the potential benefits and risks of genetic engineering
– Analyzes the role of science and technology in shaping our values and ethical principles
Example 4: The Effectiveness of Alternative Medicine
– Explores the effectiveness of alternative medicine in treating various health conditions
– Investigates different perspectives on the issue, including the scientific evidence supporting alternative medicine
– Analyzes the role of alternative medicine in shaping our views on health and wellness
Example 5: The Causes and Effects of Climate Change
– Explores the causes and effects of climate change on our planet and society
– Investigates different perspectives on the issue, including the role of human activity, natural factors, and policy decisions in causing climate change
– Analyzes the potential impacts of climate change on our environment , economy, and public health
Tips for Writing an Effective Exploratory Essay
Writing an effective exploratory essay requires careful analysis, research, and critical thinking . Here are some tips to help you write an effective exploratory essay:
Avoiding Bias: An exploratory essay should remain objective and neutral. Avoid using language that shows bias or takes a particular stance on the topic being explored .
Providing Evidence: Use evidence to support each perspective presented in your essay . This can include statistics, quotes, or other forms of evidence that support your analysis .
Acknowledging Different Perspectives: Acknowledge the different perspectives and viewpoints presented in your essay . Analyze the strengths and weaknesses of each perspective and present the information in a clear and concise manner.
Being Open-Minded: Approach the topic with an open mind and be willing to consider different perspectives and viewpoints. This can help you develop a more comprehensive understanding of the topic being explored.
Keeping a Neutral Tone: Keep a neutral and professional tone throughout the essay. Avoid using emotional language or making personal attacks on any particular perspective.
By using these tips and examples , you can write a good exploratory essay that looks at a topic from different points of view and gives a full analysis. Remember to stay neutral and open-minded, give evidence to support each point of view, and recognize the good and bad points of each. With practice, you can learn how to write exploratory essays and improve your ability to think critically and do research.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. what is an exploratory essay.
An exploratory essay is a type of academic writing that does not have a thesis statement, but rather explores a topic from different perspectives. The goal of an exploratory essay is to investigate a subject, analyze different viewpoints, and present findings that can lead to further research and discussion.
2. What are the elements of an exploratory essay?
The essential elements of an exploratory essay include an introduction, background information, exploratory questions, exploratory research, body paragraphs, and a conclusion.
3. How do I choose a topic for an exploratory essay ?
To choose a topic for an exploratory essay, you can use brainstorming techniques, analyze different perspectives, research potential topics , and select a topic that interests you.
4. What is the difference between an exploratory essay and a persuasive essay?
The main difference between an exploratory essay and a persuasive essay is their purpose. An exploratory essay is focused on exploring a topic and discovering different perspectives, while a persuasive essay is focused on arguing a particular point of view .
5. How do I structure an exploratory essay?
An exploratory essay typically includes an introduction, body paragraphs that present different perspectives on the topic being explored, and a conclusion that summarizes the main findings and insights of the essay .
Exploratory essays are an important type of academic writing because they teach students how to think critically, be open-minded, and improve their research and analysis skills. Students can learn more about complicated issues and add to ongoing discussions and debates by looking at a topic from different points of view. To be good at exploratory essays, you should avoid bias, back up each point of view with evidence, acknowledge different points of view, and keep a neutral tone. Students can write good exploratory essays that go into depth about a topic and give useful information for further research and discussion by using these tips and the parts and structure of an exploratory essay.
In conclusion, exploratory essays are a useful type of academic writing that can help students learn how to think critically, do research, and analyze. Students can learn more about complicated issues and add to ongoing discussions and debates if they keep an open mind and look at things from different points of view.
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