exploratory essay intro

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: basic strategies for compelling papers

Updated 03 Sep 2024

In the realm of academic writing, exploratory essays play a particular role. In contrast to other essay forms, they don’t aim to argue for particular viewpoints or back up claims with proof. Rather, they offer a writer the freedom to delve into a topic and make potential conclusions about it. In this article, we’ll consider this genre's defining characteristics and methods for coherently organizing thoughts and discoveries. You’ll be provided with step-by-step guidelines on how to write an exploratory essay, make it stand out, and improve your writing skills.

What is an exploratory essay?

This is a type of academic text where the author analyzes a topic without necessarily arguing for a specific point of view or providing concrete evidence. Instead, the writer investigates different perspectives, analyzes various angles, and often ends with tentative conclusions or questions for further exploration. To better understand the exploratory essay definition, let’s consider its three main features:

Consideration of diverse perspectives: Exploratory essays meticulously consider various groups of readers interested in the issue, thoughtfully delving into their points of view.
Objective approach : This writing maintains an objective stance, presenting the topic impartially rather than proposing solutions. The authors aim to explain diverse positions comprehensively.
Multiple viewpoints : While some issues may seem binary, exploratory texts go beyond simple either/or perspectives. They analyze various aspects in detail, revealing where opinions are different or similar beyond the surface argument.

How does it differ from other essay types?

If you know how to write an argumentative essay , you may think these two assignment types are comparable. Still, they have some differences. Unlike an argumentative essay, which aims to persuade the reader to adopt a suggested position by presenting supporting arguments, an exploratory text focuses more on inquiry and discovery rather than reaching a definitive conclusion. It allows for open-ended exploration and encourages critical thinking without pressure to take a firm stance.

Where is it used?

You may encounter this genre when the topic is complex or not well-defined, and the writer wants to analyze various viewpoints and potential solutions. It is common in academic settings, especially in disciplines like Sociology, Psychology, and Political Science, where issues are multifaceted and require nuanced analysis.

Exploratory essay format and length requirements

This writing follows a basic structure with an introduction, body paragraphs, and a conclusion. Consider using APA, MLA, or Chicago styles for your document formatting. APA, commonly used in Psychology, Sciences, and Education, requires uniform margins on all sides of the page and includes an abstract. MLA, suitable for the Humanities, features one-inch margins and indented initial words in paragraphs. Chicago style, prevalent in Art and History, calls for double-spaced text and 0.5-inch paragraph indentation.

As for the essay length, these texts can vary widely, ranging from a few pages to longer, more thorough examinations, depending on the complexity of the exploratory essay topics and the depth of analysis required. However, they are typically shorter than argumentative writing since they focus more on exploration and less on making a persuasive argument.

What to include in an exploratory essay: a basic outline

Below is a comprehensive outline and exploratory essay examples to guide your text’s structure and content.

I. Introduction:

Hook: Start with a statistic, captivating anecdote, or quote to engage the reader.

“Imagine a world where artificial intelligence governs every aspect of our lives, from healthcare to transportation, raising profound questions about the future of humanity.”

Background information: Provide context and background information on the topic.

“Artificial intelligence (AI) has rapidly advanced in recent years, revolutionizing industries and challenging traditional notions of human intelligence and autonomy.”

Thesis statement: Pose the main question or issue you’ll study in the science homework .

“This essay seeks to examine the ethical implications of AI in healthcare and its impact on patient care and medical professionals.”

II. Body paragraphs:

Explanation of the issue: Provide a comprehensive topic overview, including its importance and relevance.

“AI in healthcare offers the potential for improved diagnosis, treatment, and patient outcomes, but it also raises concerns about privacy, bias, and job displacement.”

Presentation of various perspectives: Explore different viewpoints, arguments, or approaches related to the subject.

“Some experts argue that AI can enhance diagnostic accuracy and efficiency, while others worry about data privacy and the dehumanization of medicine.”

Analysis of each perspective: Examine each position's strengths, weaknesses, and underlying assumptions.

“While AI algorithms can analyze vast amounts of medical data and identify patterns that human doctors might miss, they may also perpetuate biases present in the data or lack the nuanced understanding of human emotions.”

Exploration of common ground: Identify any common themes or values shared among the different points of view. Our “pay for essay” service can recommend how to do it correctly.

“Both proponents and critics of AI in healthcare agree on the importance of ensuring patient privacy and maintaining the human-centric aspect of medicine.”

Discussion of unresolved questions: Highlight any unanswered questions or areas for further inquiry.

“Despite ongoing debates, many questions remain unanswered, such as how to regulate AI algorithms to ensure fairness and transparency.”

III. Conclusion:

Restatement of the central question or thesis: Summarize the main question or issue explored in the text.

“In conclusion, the ethical implications of AI in healthcare remain complex and multifaceted, requiring careful consideration of its benefits and risks.”

Summary of key points: Recap the key points and perspectives discussed in the body paragraphs.

“Throughout this essay, we’ve examined various perspectives on AI in healthcare, from its potential to revolutionize patient care to concerns about privacy and bias.”

Reflection on the importance : Consider the broader implications of the exploration and any insights gained.

“This exploration underscores the need for ongoing dialogue and ethical oversight to ensure that AI technologies are deployed responsibly and in the best interest of patients and society.”

Suggestions for future research: Offer suggestions for further investigation.

“Moving forward, future research should focus on developing ethical guidelines and regulatory frameworks to guide the responsible development and deployment of AI in healthcare.”

This outline offers a structured framework for arranging an exploratory document, enabling thorough analysis of intricate topics. Adapt and extend the outline as necessary to fit your text’s requirements or the complexity of your chosen topic.

How to write an exploratory essay: basic steps

Preparing this writing differs from completing an exemplification essay or any other type of academic paper. Below, we outline five essential steps to guide you through the exploratory research process.

Step 1: Choose your topic.

How to start an exploratory essay? Start by selecting a topic that sparks curiosity. Opt for subjects with diverse perspectives and avoid binary arguments. For example, consider topics like “Gender Inequality in the Workplace: Exploring Root Causes” or “The Rise of Online Learning: Transforming Education in the Digital Age.”

Step 2: Identify viewpoints.

Dive into your topic by identifying at least three distinct positions to analyze. Conduct thorough research and learn the up-to-date literature to uncover various arguments and counterarguments.

Step 3: Understand your audience.

For better essay planning , consider your audience’s perspectives and biases. Explore how their beliefs shape their attitudes toward the topic.

Step 4: Address your research inquiries and concerns.

Respond thoughtfully to the questions raised throughout your study. Consider each inquiry the research body poses and determine the most effective approach to addressing them. Be proactive in identifying and tackling any concerns arising from your work.

Step 5: Create your final project.

Complete the writing process equipped with your newfound insights. Draw inspiration from other essay samples, ensuring coherence and fluidity in your writing.

Following these steps, you can create your research-based papers with confidence and finesse.

How to make your writing stand out: dos and don’ts

If you struggle with how to write exploratory essay, discover some dos and don’ts to create well-thought-out and compelling writing. These rules are also crucial for everyone learning how to write a scholarship essay of any type.

Choose an intriguing topic: Select one that sparks curiosity and offers room for exploration. Look for subjects with multiple perspectives or unresolved issues.
Thoroughly investigate the topic: Conduct extensive research to gather relevant information and data. Use credible sources to support your exploration and analysis.
Organize your thoughts: Structure your document clearly and logically. Use headings and subheadings to guide the reader through your research process. If your text's organization needs to be polished, you can contact the “ buy college essay ” service.
Be open-minded: Approach the topic with an open mind. Embrace ambiguity and be willing to reconsider your initial assumptions as you study different perspectives.
Consider several viewpoints : Explore various angles and aspects related to your topic. Show a comprehensive understanding of different opinions and arguments.
Provide insightful analysis: Offer thoughtful analysis and interpretation of the information gathered. Highlight connections between different viewpoints and draw meaningful conclusions.

Don’ts:

Avoid delaying your task: Start early to manage your time effectively. Procrastination can hinder your progress. With a limited timeframe to complete each step, begin your work promptly to allow ample time for crafting a well-developed paper.
Don’t forget to take notes throughout your research process: Record key points and insights as you gather information. Reviewing your notes at the end of your research allows you to reorganize your ideas logically and ensure seamless transitions between them.
Don’t neglect a structured outline: Designing an exploratory essay outline is a roadmap for your study. It ensures you cover all necessary information in your writing and provides a clear framework for your ideas.
Avoid oversimplification: Don’t simplistically explain the exploratory essay topics . Avoid reducing complex issues to binary choices or oversimplifying nuanced perspectives.
Refrain from ignoring counterarguments: Acknowledge and address counterarguments to your viewpoint. Failing to consider opposing opinions can weaken the credibility of your exploratory essay example.
Steer clear of bias: Guard against bias and partiality in your study. Present information objectively and refrain from imposing your own beliefs onto the analysis.
Avoid rushing the process: Take your time to analyze the topic and conduct research thoroughly. Rushing through the process can result in shallow analysis and missed opportunities for insight.
Don’t neglect proofreading and editing: Mistakes are inevitable, so allocate sufficient time to review and refine your paper. Verify its coherence and accuracy, and have confidence in your ability to produce a polished final product.

Final thoughts

Becoming proficient in academic writing opens doors to intellectual exploration and discovery. By being curious, thinking about different viewpoints, and feeling sure even when things are unclear, you can discover new ideas and better understand complicated topics.

However, there is a great solution for those grappling with this challenge. EduBirdie is the premier ally for students in need, offering expert guidance and support to understand the particularities of exploratory writing with ease and proficiency. With EduBirdie by your side, your writing journey becomes manageable and truly enriching.

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Written by Elizabeth Miller

Seasoned academic writer, nurturing students' writing skills. Expert in citation and plagiarism. Contributing to EduBirdie since 2019. Aspiring author and dedicated volunteer. You will never have to worry about plagiarism as I write essays 100% from scratch. Vast experience in English, History, Ethics, and more.

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