How to Show Balanced Arguments in Expository Writing

In diverse writing styles, expository writing plays a crucial role in conveying complex ideas, explaining concepts and putting forward well-reasoned arguments.

The effectiveness of this form of writing depends on clarity, organization and, most importantly, balance. This next tip will focus on how to present balanced arguments in expository writing.

What Is Expository Writing?

It’s a style of writing that seeks to explain and illustrate, clarify, or even explicate a subject for the reader. It’s all about laying out facts, ideas and arguments clearly and logically. Examples of expository writing are things like textbooks, news articles, scientific papers and instruction manuals.

What Is a Balanced Argument?

A balanced argument considers different viewpoints or perspectives on an issue. It doesn’t favor one side over the other but presents evidence and reasoning for each viewpoint. The aim is to provide a comprehensive, unbiased perspective so readers can make informed decisions or opinions.

Why Balanced Arguments Are Important

They give readers a comprehensive understanding of the topic. Plus, they reveal the strengths and weaknesses of different positions and encourage independent critical thinking. It also shows that the author took the time and did their research on the topic unbiasedly.

How to Create Balanced Arguments

1. Classify different viewpoints: Start by narrowing down the different viewpoints on the issue you’re writing about.
2. Do your research: Read and study each viewpoint thoroughly. Look for strong evidence and logical reasoning to fully support each perspective.
3. Be fair when presenting each viewpoint: Be sure to present each viewpoint fairly and respectfully to all sides. Avoid using loaded language or biased phrases that could skew the reader’s perception.
4. Analyze and compare: Look at each viewpoint’s strengths and weaknesses and compare them. This’ll provide a deeper insight into the issue for the reader to consider.

Examples of Balanced Arguments in Expository Writing

Here are three topics that anyone in the world can relate to and understand. But you have to approach each of these carefully and, most importantly, unbiasedly. 

1. Climate Change: An expository essay on climate change may discuss the scientific consensus that it is largely caused by human activity but also present arguments from those who claim natural variations play a significant role. The essay should provide evidence for each viewpoint.
2. Education Reform: Content about education reform might explore both the proponents’ arguments for standardized testing as a measure of accountability and the critics’ perspectives on how it can limit creative and critical thinking.
3. Healthcare System: An examination of the healthcare system could present arguments for a single-payer system (universal healthcare), a private healthcare system, and a hybrid model, evaluating the pros and cons of each.

Test Your Expository Writing Skills

Balanced arguments are the backbone of effective expository writing. They give a comprehensive, unbiased perspective that helps readers form informed opinions all on their own. While you continue to hone your expository writing skills, always remember to keep balance and fairness in your arguments.

Exercise: Balanced Argument Identification

Read the following passage and identify the different viewpoints presented. Is the argument balanced?

“The debate over the use of technology in classrooms is intense. Some educators argue that technology, such as laptops and tablets, enriches the learning experience and prepares students for the digital age. But others think it can be a distraction and promotes shallow learning.”