Author's Purpose Basics

Different reading passages are written for different purposes. Knowing the kind of passage you are reading helps you to identify the

author’s purpose.

An author’s purpose usually falls into one of three major categories.

Writing to Inform

The author provides factual information in a balanced manner.

• If there are two sides to an issue, the author presents both sides and

leaves it up to the reader to draw a conclusion.

• Informative writing usually contains facts.

• Examples: news articles, nonfiction, directions

Writing to Persuade

The author wants to influence or persuade the reader to think, believe, or act in a certain way.

• The author might encourage the reader to do something.

• Persuasive writing usually contains opinions or suggestions.

• Example: editorial, advertisement

Writing to Entertain

Some authors want to entertain their readers – to make them laugh,

cry, feel suspense, or otherwise enjoy their reading.

• Entertaining pieces of writing may tell personal stories or teach a

lesson.

• Example: stories, plays, poems