Text Types:
1. Introduction
Text types refer to different categories of writing, each serving a specific purpose.
Understanding these types is essential for effective communication in academics,
professional settings, and everyday life. Each text type has distinct features, structures, and
language conventions.
This guide covers major text types, their purposes, structures, key features, and examples.
2. Major Types of Texts
1. Narrative Text
Definition:
A narrative text tells a story, real or fictional. It includes characters, a setting, and a plot with
a beginning, middle, and end.
Purpose:
• To entertain, engage, or inform readers through storytelling.
• To describe experiences, events, or imaginary worlds.
Structure:
1. Orientation (Introduction) – Introduces characters, setting, and context.
2. Complication (Rising Action & Conflict) – Introduces a problem or conflict.
3. Climax (Turning Point) – The most intense part of the story.
4. Resolution (Ending) – Concludes the story by solving the conflict.
5. (Optional) Coda (Moral Lesson) – Provides a lesson or reflection.
Features:
• Use of past tense (e.g., "She walked to the market.")
• Descriptive language for imagery and emotions
• Use of dialogue and characters
Examples:
• Novels (e.g., Pride and Prejudice by Jane Austen)
• Short stories
• Biographies/autobiographies
• Folktales and fairy tales (e.g., Cinderella)
2. Descriptive Text
Definition:
A descriptive text provides detailed information about a person, place, object, or event,
appealing to the five senses.
Purpose:
• To create a vivid picture in the reader’s mind.
• To enhance sensory engagement through detailed descriptions.
Structure:
1. Introduction – Briefly introduces the subject.
2. Description – Provides details about appearance, features, and characteristics.
3. Conclusion (optional) – Summarizes the main impression.
Features:
• Adjectives and adverbs (e.g., "The sun set behind the golden hills.")
• Figurative language (similes, metaphors, personification)
• Present or past tense, depending on context
Examples:
• Travel blogs (describing places)
• Character descriptions in novels
• Poetry (e.g., Daffodils by William Wordsworth)
• Museum guides and brochures
3. Expository Text
Definition:
An expository text provides factual and logical explanations about a topic without personal
opinions.
Purpose:
• To inform, explain, or clarify concepts.
• To provide facts, definitions, and explanations.
Structure:
1. Introduction – Presents the topic clearly.
2. Body paragraphs – Explain key ideas with supporting details.
3. Conclusion – Summarizes the main points.
Features:
• Objective tone (no emotions or personal opinions)
• Logical organization with headings and subheadings
• Use of statistics, facts, and examples
Examples:
• Textbooks (e.g., science and history books)
• Encyclopedias and Wikipedia entries
• How-to guides and manuals
• Research papers
4. Persuasive Text
Definition:
A persuasive text attempts to convince readers to adopt a viewpoint or take action.
Purpose:
• To persuade, influence, or argue a point of view.
Structure:
1. Introduction – States the opinion and topic.
2. Body paragraphs – Provide arguments, supporting evidence, and
counterarguments.
3. Conclusion – Reinforces the argument and calls for action.
Features:
• Persuasive language (e.g., "You must try this amazing product!")
• Use of rhetorical questions (e.g., "Would you rather live in a polluted city?")
• Facts, statistics, and expert opinions
Examples:
• Opinion essays (e.g., "Why Climate Change is a Global Crisis")
• Advertisements (e.g., "Buy one, get one free!")
• Political speeches (e.g., Martin Luther King Jr.'s I Have a Dream)
• Editorials in newspapers
5. Argumentative Text
Definition:
An argumentative text presents opposing viewpoints and defends a position with logic and
evidence.
Purpose:
• To analyze issues and support a particular stance using strong reasoning.
Structure:
1. Introduction – Introduces the issue and thesis statement.
2. Arguments (Pros & Cons) – Presents arguments for and against, with evidence.
3. Rebuttal – Disproves counterarguments.
4. Conclusion – Reinforces the main argument.
Features:
• Use of logic and critical thinking
• Formal tone and academic language
• Fact-based arguments with citations
Examples:
• Research-based essays
• Debates and position papers
• Legal arguments and court cases
6. Procedural (Instructional) Text
Definition:
A procedural text gives step-by-step instructions on how to do something.
Purpose:
• To guide readers in performing a task correctly.
Structure:
1. Title/Goal – Defines what will be achieved.
2. Materials/Ingredients – Lists items required.
3. Steps – Provides numbered or bullet-point instructions.
4. Conclusion – Offers additional tips or warnings.
Features:
• Imperative verbs (commands) (e.g., "Mix the flour with water.")
• Logical sequencing (Step 1, Step 2, etc.)
• Use of diagrams or images (optional)
Examples:
• Recipes (e.g., "How to Bake a Chocolate Cake")
• User manuals (e.g., "Setting Up a Smartphone")
• Scientific experiments (e.g., "Steps to Conduct a Chemistry Test")
7. Recount Text
Definition:
A recount text retells past events in chronological order.
Purpose:
• To narrate personal experiences or historical events.
Structure:
1. Orientation – Provides background information (who, what, when, where).
2. Events – Describes events in sequence.
3. Conclusion – Reflects on the experience.
Features:
• Past tense (e.g., "We visited the museum last week.")
• Use of time connectors (e.g., "Then, next, after that.")
• Personal or factual tone
Examples:
• Personal diaries and journals
• Newspaper reports (e.g., "The Earthquake That Shook Japan")
• Travel experiences
3. Conclusion
Each text type serves a unique purpose and follows specific structures and conventions.
Understanding these types enhances reading comprehension, writing skills, and effective
communication. Whether writing a story, report, essay, or instruction manual, selecting
the right text type ensures clarity and impact.
Mastering different text types helps in academic success, professional growth, and creative
expression.
Prepared by Mohammad Kashif.
English lecturer
UOS and NCN Charbagh
03420959376
