In comparison to other essay types, an exploratory essay doesn’t aim to present a specific argument or support a claim with evidence. Rather, it provides an opportunity for the writer to scrutinize a topic, explore the subject matter, and consider tentative conclusions. Instead of persuading an audience to accept a particular thesis, the purpose of this essay is to investigate a problem and possibly develop initial insights into potential solutions. In this guide, our essay writers will explain how to write an exploratory essay. They also support students in crafting all types of essays including persuasive supplemental essays that will make a lasting impression.
What Is an Exploratory Essay?
An exploratory essay explores a topic or issue and investigates potential solutions. It also contains details about your approach to the subject and insights into your research process. In comparison with other essay types that firmly emphasize a position on an issue and provide substantial evidence to reinforce that stand, the exploratory essay focuses on the process of arriving at an idea and the research materials and methods employed to investigate it. For example, an argumentative essay supporting the expansion of public transportation might state that improving transit options enhances the quality of life for citizens. On the other hand, an exploratory essay would offer a background on the topic and detail the research and data collected.
What to Include in an Exploratory Essay
An exploratory essay does not arrive at a final conclusion regarding a topic. Instead, it investigates various conclusions and potential outcomes. In the case of the earlier example, your exploratory essay could include various views on public transit, incorporating insights from urban planners and transport experts.
In an exploratory essay, there is an element of reflection on your research and writing process. You might reflect on which sources or evidence were mainly valuable while exploring the topic. Alternatively, you might be asked to draw conclusions regarding how you could approach your topic in an argumentative essay. The main objective of an exploratory essay is to make a review of a topic or issue, examine its context, and consider possible solutions.
Organizing an Exploratory Essay
Knowing how to write an exploratory essay starts with understanding how to create an outline. Exploratory essays follow the same structure as other essay types, comprising an introduction, body paragraphs, and a conclusion. The introduction establishes the structure for your chosen topic, explains the significance of the examination, and expresses the main research questions. The body paragraphs cover the research you have taken, providing summaries of the sources you have referenced. In the conclusion, you revisit your research question and give possible solutions.
In a very general outline, your exploratory essay may adhere to a structure like this:
Introduction
The introduction should provide an overview of the issue you are exploring and its significance. Additionally, it should briefly touch upon:
- Potential causes of the problem.
- The individuals and organizations connected to the problem.
- Potential solutions to the problem.
- A brief summary of the types of sources you consulted during your investigation.
If writing an exploratory essay on public transportation, you might begin by briefly introducing the recent history of public transit discussions. Following this, you could highlight the significance of research in public transportation, emphasizing its tangible influence on our daily routines. Concluding the introduction, you might pose your primary research questions related to the topic.
Body paragraphs
The body paragraphs in an exploratory essay focus on detailing the research process employed to investigate the chosen topic. This section emphasizes the sources deemed most valuable and explains their significance in contributing to the ongoing debate or discussion. In the body paragraphs, you can also elaborate on how specific resources have influenced and altered your viewpoint on the topic. It’s common for exploratory essays to include multiple body paragraphs to thoroughly address various aspects of the subject and the impact of different sources on your understanding.
Conclusion
In the conclusion, you should revisit the problem you explored, briefly summarize its potential causes, recap the institutions and individuals involved, and reiterate possible solutions. If there are lingering questions about the problem, it’s acceptable to address them in this section. Discuss why you still have unresolved questions and suggest possible avenues for further research to answer these questions. Mention other forms of research you would need to undertake to gain a more comprehensive understanding of the issue.
Need Help on How to Write an Exploratory Essay?
An exploratory essay fundamentally serves as a reflection on your writing and thinking process as you navigate a complex problem. It documents the when, how, and why of your research activities. This type of writing centers around the way you approach challenges demanding both writing and research. It requires contemplation and a deep consideration of your thinking process to produce a well-crafted essay. Students may find it beneficial to seek assistance from experienced writers proficient in writing exploratory essays. Don’t hesitate to reach out to us for an estimate.
