Ever read a piece of content and thought, “Wow, this sounds so different!” That’s because writers don’t just write they choose a style of writing. And the style changes everything: tone, structure, intention, and even the emotional impact.
When I started writing, I thought it was all about grammar and vocabulary. But soon, I realised that understanding writing styles is what makes the difference between okay content and powerful storytelling.
So, if you’re a student, blogger, content writer, or even a business owner this guide is for you.
Let’s dive into the 10 major styles of writing and break them down in the simplest way possible.
1. Expository Writing
“Just the facts, no timepass.”
What is it?
Expository writing is all about explaining something. It’s straightforward, neutral, and doesn’t include opinions. The goal is to inform the reader.
Where it’s used:
- Textbooks
- How-to guides
- News articles (non-editorial)
- User manuals
Example:
“Water boils at 100°C at sea level. This temperature decreases at higher altitudes.”
Tip:
Stick to clear facts and avoid emotional or persuasive words.
2. Descriptive Writing
“Paint a picture with words.”
What is it?
Descriptive writing is used when you want the reader to visualise something a scene, person, object, or feeling. It’s filled with sensory details: sight, sound, smell, touch, and taste.
Where it’s used:
- Fiction
- Poetry
- Travel blogs
- Character sketches
Example:
“The sunset spilled gold across the sky, fading into a blush of pink behind the silhouette of coconut trees.”
Tip:
Use metaphors, similes, and vivid language, but don’t overdo it.
3. Narrative Writing
“Tell me a story.”
What is it?
This style tells a story with characters, a setting, conflict, and resolution. It often follows a structure: beginning, middle, and end.
Where it’s used:
- Short stories
- Novels
- Biographies
- Personal essays
Example:
“I still remember the day I failed my first driving test. My hands were shaking on the wheel, and the instructor had that poker face that made it worse…”
Tip:
Make your reader care about what happens next.
4. Persuasive Writing
“Change my mind.”
What is it?
Persuasive writing aims to convince the reader to agree with your opinion or take action. It uses arguments, facts, and sometimes emotional appeals.
Where it’s used:
- Advertisements
- Opinion columns
- Speeches
- Social media captions (yes, really!)
Example:
“Switching to reusable bags can save our oceans. Every plastic bag you skip makes a difference.”
Tip:
Support your opinions with logic, examples, or data. Don’t be preachy be convincing.
5. Creative Writing
“Let your imagination run wild.”
What is it?
Creative writing is a broad style where you can break traditional rules and experiment. It focuses on expressing ideas in unique, engaging ways.
Where it’s used:
- Poetry
- Fiction
- Screenplays
- Blog storytelling
Example:
“The stars whispered secrets into the ears of those brave enough to listen.”
Tip:
There are no fixed rules, but every creative piece should still have structure and clarity.
6. Technical Writing
“Explain it like I need to use it.”
What is it?
Technical writing explains complex topics in a precise and practical way. The goal is to make sure the reader understands how to use or operate something.
Where it’s used:
- Software documentation
- Instruction manuals
- Whitepapers
- API documentation
Example:
“To install the software, double-click the setup file, follow the prompts, and restart your device after completion.”
Tip:
Clarity is everything. Assume your reader knows nothing.
7. Academic Writing
“Show your research.”
What is it?
This style is formal, structured, and evidence-based. Academic writing aims to inform and argue based on research and analysis.
Where it’s used:
- Research papers
- Essays
- Dissertations
- Scholarly journals
Example:
“According to a 2022 study by WHO, the average attention span of adults has decreased by 25% in the last two decades.”
Tip:
Use references and citations. Avoid casual or emotional language.
8. Journalistic Writing
“What happened? Tell me quickly.”
What is it?
Journalistic writing is used in reporting current events. It must be clear, timely, and factual. It answers: Who, What, Where, When, Why, and How.
Where it’s used:
- News reports
- Online articles
- Interviews
- Magazines
Example:
“A 6.2 magnitude earthquake struck western Nepal on Monday evening, injuring dozens and damaging several homes.”
Tip:
Keep your sentences short and to the point. Be accurate and avoid bias (unless it’s editorial content).
9. Business Writing
“Get to the point. Professionally.”
What is it?
Business writing is all about clear communication in a professional setting. It’s meant to inform, instruct, or persuade in a corporate environment.
Where it’s used:
- Emails
- Memos
- Reports
- Proposals
Example:
“Please find the Q2 performance metrics attached. Let me know if you have any questions by Friday.”
Tip:
Be polite, brief, and formal. Structure matters.
10. Copywriting
“Sell it without sounding salesy.”
What is it?
Copywriting is persuasive writing used in marketing to encourage people to take action buy, click, subscribe, sign up, etc.
Where it’s used:
- Website landing pages
- Product descriptions
- Ads
- Email marketing
Example:
“Struggling to stay organised? Our new planner helps you track habits, goals, and tasks all in one place.”
Tip:
Focus on benefits, not just features. Speak your audience’s language.
Conclusion
If you ever wondered why some pieces feel like a conversation, while others feel like a lecture it’s because each writing style has a purpose.
And guess what?
As a writer, you can blend styles. A blog post can have narrative storytelling with persuasive elements. A business email can include a touch of conversational tone. The more you write, the better you get at recognising and mixing them.
So next time you write something, ask yourself:
“What’s my purpose and which writing style fits it best?”
Want engaging content in the right writing style?
Whether it’s blogs, website copy, or product descriptions I’ve got you covered.Message me now and let’s bring your ideas to life with the right words.
