1. Basic Features of a Concept Explanation

2. Basic Features: Explaining a Concept
A Focused Explanation
An effective explanation narrows a general concept to one aspect that is likely to be of interest
Which aspect to focus on, and how it is presented, will depend on the essay’s purpose and audience

3. An essay which has a readable plan:
Basic Features: Explaining a Concept
A Readable Plan
An essay which has a readable plan:
Divides the information into clearly distinguishable topics
Forecasts the topics
Presents the topics in logical order
Gives readers cues or road signs to guide them

4. Appropriate Explanatory Strategies
Basic Features: Explaining a Concept
Appropriate Explanatory Strategies
Explanatory essays depend on clear presentation of information. An essay might include:
Definitions of key terms
Classification or grouping of related material
Comparison and contrast
Narration of anecdotes or processes
Illustration, using examples, visuals, or lists of facts and details
Reports of established causes and effects

5. Basic Features: Explaining a Concept
Smooth Integration of Sources
Authors often draw upon their own experiences, but almost always do additional research to lend authority to their explanation
Use of sources depends on the writing situation
Students and scholars are expected to cite sources formally
More informal writing does not require citations, but writers still identify sources and their expertise