Exploring Writing Styles: Meaning, Types, and Examples

• Apr 04, 2024
• 7 min read

• Tags: Book Writing, English as a Second Language / ESL, General, Novel Writing, Writers, Writing Tips

Have you ever wondered what makes Agatha Christie’s writing different from Dan Brown’s writing? Writing styles are what makes them unique! Even though their literary genres are the same, both these famous authors have different writing styles. 

Understanding what are writing styles and their different types will help you find your own. In this blog, we will understand the meaning of writing styles and types of writing styles with their examples. So get ready to find your style and improve your writing!

What is a writing style?

A writing style is simply the unique way a writer expresses their ideas and crafts their prose. It’s like their personal signature or fingerprint on the page. A writer’s style can be influenced by factors such as their personality, experiences, target audience, and the purpose of their writing.

Different writing styles can evoke various tones and feelings in the reader, making the piece more engaging, persuasive, or informative. Each style has its own characteristics and techniques that writers use to effectively communicate their message. Mastering different writing styles can make you capable of tackling any writing task that comes your way.

Here’s a list of the most common and important styles of writing:

• Expository writing style
• Descriptive writing style
• Persuasive writing style
• Narrative writing style
• Creative writing style
• Argumentative writing style

Let’s look at these different types of writing styles in depth!

Types of writing styles

We will explore the types and writing style examples to learn more about them. At the end of each writing style is a worksheet for your practice!

1. Expository writing style

Expository writing serves to inform, explain, or clarify ideas and concepts. Its primary goal is to deliver information clearly and concisely without the influence of the writer’s own opinions. This style of writing is foundational in academic and technical settings, where understanding and precision are paramount. 

It is used in writing expository essays, textbooks, business reports, manuals, and articles that aim to educate and inform the reader about a particular subject.

An example of expository writing style:

A journal article explaining the process of photosynthesis.

Photosynthesis is the remarkable biochemical process by which plants convert sunlight into chemical energy. It occurs in the chloroplasts, where sunlight and carbon dioxide are transformed into glucose and oxygen through a series of reactions. This process not only fuels the plant’s own growth but also sustains life on Earth by producing vital oxygen and forming the base of the food chain.

The article provides a straightforward explanation of how photosynthesis works without offering opinions or arguments.

Use this worksheet to practice expository writing style: 

Expository Writing Style Worksheet 

2. Descriptive writing style

The primary purpose of descriptive writing is to provide a detailed sensory experience for the reader. It uses rich and evocative language to describe the subject matter in a way that the reader can visualize or imagine vividly. Descriptive writing serves to immerse the reader in the scene or topic, allowing them to feel as if they are part of the setting or event being described. 

It is often used in fiction, poetry, journal entries, descriptive essays, and nature writing, as well as in certain types of journalistic and academic writing where detailed descriptions are necessary.

An example of a descriptive writing style: 

The description of a puppy.

The small puppy was fluffy, with fur as white as snow. Its bright blue eyes sparkled with curiosity as it playfully wagged its tiny tail. The soft jingle of its collar could be heard as it bounced around the sunny backyard, exploring every corner with excitement.

The description uses picturesque language to describe the puppy, making the reader imagine the experience of actually seeing the puppy.

Use this worksheet to practice descriptive writing style: 

Descriptive Writing Style Worksheet

3. Persuasive writing style

The purpose of persuasive writing is to convince or persuade the reader to agree with the writer’s point of view or to take a specific action. Persuasive writers use emotional appeals, logical arguments, and credible evidence to build their case. The effectiveness of persuasive writing lies in its ability to influence the reader’s beliefs or behaviors.

This style of writing is essential in law, advertising, political speeches, and opinion pieces.

An example of a persuasive writing style:

A speech advocating for climate change action.

Today, we stand at a crossroads. The evidence of climate change is undeniable, and its effects are devastating. We have the power to change this trajectory. By investing in renewable energy and reducing our carbon footprint, we can safeguard our planet for future generations. The time for debate has passed; now is the time for action.

The speech uses compelling language to convince the audience of the urgency of addressing climate change and suggests clear actions to be taken.

Use this worksheet to practice persuasive writing style:

Persuasive Writing Style Worksheet

4. Narrative writing style

Narrative writing serves to tell a story or to relay events in an organized, chronological manner. It is used to engage the reader by presenting a compelling tale, often to entertain, educate, or convey a particular theme or moral.

In addition to entertainment, narratives can be used to preserve history, as in the case of memoirs or biographies. It can also be used in narrative essays to share personal experiences in a relatable way or to explore complex ideas through literary devices.

An example of a narrative writing style:

A personal anecdote in a college application essay.

Back when I was eleven, a run-down piano in the community hall called out to me, its keys worn from years of neglect. Despite its decrepit state, I saw potential. Day by day, I cleaned and tuned it, and soon, my fingers danced across the keys, bringing life to melodies that had long been silent. That piano wasn’t just an instrument; it was my first step toward a lifelong passion for music.

The essay provides a narrative of personal growth and discovery centered around the piano, offering insight into the writer’s character and history.

Use this worksheet to practice narrative writing style:

Narrative Writing Style Worksheet 

5. Creative writing style

Creative writing’s purpose is to entertain, provoke thought, express feelings, and stretch the imagination of the reader. It’s a way for writers to express themselves creatively by talking about all sorts of human experiences, like wild adventures, deep thoughts, or trying out new ideas. Creative writing can help us understand what it’s like to be human, share stories that touch our hearts, or just give us a break from everyday life.

It includes genres such as fiction, poetry, drama, and other creative forms where the writer’s voice and style are integral to the work’s impact and appeal.

An example of creative writing style:

A short story opening in a literary magazine.

When Luna opened the antique locket, she didn’t expect to find the ocean. But there it was, a drop of the sea, trapped behind glass, its tiny waves crashing against the metal shores. As she peered closer, the sound of distant gulls filled her ears, and the scent of saltwater wafted through the air. Luna blinked, and for a moment, she was no longer in her grandmother’s attic.

This piece uses imaginative elements and detailed imagery to engage the reader and tell a story.

Use this worksheet to practice creative writing style: 

Creative Writing Style Worksheet

6. Argumentative writing style

The purpose of argumentative writing is to present a reasoned argument in favor of a particular position or point of view. This style of writing is analytical and persuasive. It requires the writer to clearly articulate their stance on an issue and support it with evidence, logic, and reasoning. Argumentative writing uses facts and logic, not emotions, to persuade. It encourages critical thinking by presenting multiple viewpoints and debunking opposing arguments.

Argumentative writing is critical in areas such as academic research, opinion-editorial pieces, argumentative essays, legal cases, and public debates.

An example of argumentative writing style: 

An editorial arguing for the preservation of historical buildings.

The city council must act now to protect our historic buildings. These structures are not mere edifices of brick and mortar; they are the embodiment of our community’s rich heritage and cultural identity. Critics may argue that development is essential for economic growth, but must progress come at the cost of our past? Surely, we can find a balance that honors both our history and our future aspirations. Preserving these landmarks is not a blockade to modernization—it is an act of respect for the narrative that has shaped us.

The editorial presents a clear argument for the preservation of historic buildings, addressing potential counterarguments about economic development and proposing a balanced solution. 

Use this worksheet to practice argumentative writing style: 

Argumentative Writing Style Worksheet 

Tips for adapting your writing style

• Know your purpose:  Make sure you know what you want to accomplish with your writing.
• Understand your audience: Adjust your style to fit the people who will read your writing.
• Use appropriate language: Choose words that match your audience and purpose, whether that means using formal or informal language, technical terms, or simpler words.
• Maintain Flexibility: Be ready to adjust your writing based on feedback and how well it’s working.
• Practice Consistently: The more you write, the better you’ll get at adjusting your style naturally.

Adapting to a writing style will give an edge to your writing and make your work stand out. Remember, adapting your writing style is not about losing your voice; it’s about expressing your ideas most effectively for a particular context.

Whatever your writing style, always make sure to revise and edit your writing to keep it perfect. As experts in editing and proofreading services, PaperTrue can help you make your writing flawless and error-free!

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Tanvi

With a foundation in Life Sciences, Tanvi enjoys curating technical writing tips tailored for ESL students. When she's not translating complex concepts into bite-sized nuggets, she can be found playing with dogs or painting landscapes.