Basics
What is inform or explain?
Unlike narrative writing, which tells a story, the primary goal of informational writing is to do this.
What are transitions?
These are used at the beginning of paragraphs to help the reader move smoothly from one idea to the next (e.g., "Furthermore," "In addition").
What is plagiarism?
This is the act of using someone else’s words or ideas without giving them credit.
What is brainstorming
This is the very first step of writing, where you gather ideas and choose a topic.
What is a fact?
A statement that can be proven true with evidence.
What is a thesis statement?
This is the most important sentence in your introduction; it states the main point or focus of your entire piece
What is the introduction?
This is the first paragraph of your essay, designed to grab attention and introduce the topic.
What is .edu?
A website ending in this three-letter suffix is usually run by a college or university.
What is a draft?
A "rough" version of your paper that you write before you start worrying about perfect spelling.
What is third person?
Informational writing should always be written in this 'person'—avoiding the use of 'I' or 'me
What is third-person
Informational writing should be written from this "point of view" to remain professional and unbiased.
What is the conclusion?
This part of the essay summarizes the main points and leaves the reader with a final thought.
What is a bibliography?
This is a list of all the books, websites, and articles you used, found at the very end of your paper.
What is revising?
The stage where you look for "big picture" changes, like moving paragraphs or adding more detail.
What is an opinion?
This is a personal belief or feeling that cannot be proven.
Who is the audience?
This term refers to the specific people you expect to read your work.
What are subheadings?
These are the "mini-titles" used to organize different sections of an informational text.
What is paraphrasing?
To put a source's idea into your own words while still giving them credit
What is an outline?
This visual map or list helps you organize your points in order before you start drafting.
What is bias?
When a writer shows a preference for one side over another, rather than remaining neutral.
What is False?
True or False: Informational writing should include the author’s personal opinions and feelings about the topic
What is a thesis statement?
A single sentence that summarizes the main point or claim of the entire informational piece.
What is a primary source?
This type of source is a first-hand account or an original document from the time period being studied.
What is editing?
The final stage where you check for "CUPS" (Capitalization, Usage, Punctuation, Spelling).
What is evidence?
These specific pieces of information (like numbers, dates, or quotes) are used to prove a writer's point.