middle school informative essay outline

My Speech Class

Public Speaking Tips & Speech Topics

Informative Essay Outline – Ultimate Guide & Examples

Amanda Green was born in a small town in the west of Scotland, where everyone knows everyone. I joined the Toastmasters 15 years ago, and I served in nearly every office in the club since then. I love helping others gain confidence and skills they can apply in every day life.

Writing an informative essay requires excellent research skills to educate your audience; I know this from first-hand experience. But creating an outline for your paper is easier said than done. I promise!

I created this guide to show you the correct outline for writing an informative essay with examples. Follow my tips so you can organize your thoughts and ideas.

What Is an Informative Essay?

An informative essay’s purpose is to inform and educate readers on a specific topic. Some reports seek to define a term, while others compare and contrast different objects. Some informative essays analyze data or provide procedures for doing something.

It’s the type of essay that should present something other than an opinion. That means you should omit personal pronouns “I” and “me” on the paper. You should also not persuade your reader in an informative essay.

Informational Essay Outline

Most essays and speeches follow four parts: an introduction, thesis, body, and conclusion. The main purpose is to help the writer connect all the information and support their thesis statement. Below is an outline for an informative essay structure with examples.

• Introduction

The essay introduction is where you introduce the topic of your choice. It should be shorter than the body paragraphs because it merely provides a background of your informative essay topic. Give the readers an overview of the body paragraph.

This part also includes the relevance of your topic. Ask yourself why you are writing about this subject. What makes it timely?

Can We Write Your Speech?

Get your audience blown away with help from a professional speechwriter. Free proofreading and copy-editing included.

Here’s an example:

“Tobacco, a plant that contains an addictive drug called nicotine, kills over 8 million people worldwide annually. It occurs as individuals inhale and exhale the burning plant material’s fumes.”

The thesis statement is often part of the introduction. It’s a complete sentence at the end of the first paragraph discussing what the informative essay will inform its readers. The thesis should be brief, concise, and written in simple terms.

For example:

“Smoking is the major cause of respiratory and cardiovascular diseases, such as cancer, diabetes, and stroke.”

• Body paragraphs

The main body of the essay includes a paragraph for every supporting detail. Teachers usually require students to have three points in this section. For every target point, the writer should support it with facts.

The target point is also known as the topic sentence. This statement will serve as the basis of the paragraph for cohesion. After that, support the sentence with facts and studies. Don’t forget to cite your sources to avoid plagiarism.

Don’t forget to summarize each point after every body paragraph to tie everything together.

Below is an example of a body paragraph about one target point.

“Smoking can cause cancer because it weakens the body’s immune system or damages a cell’s DNA. According to the US Department of Health and Human Services (2014), nearly 9 out of 10 deaths caused by lung cancer are caused by smoking cigarettes or exposure to second-hand smoke. Although treatments are advancing, it continues killing more people than other types of cancer.”

The informative essay conclusion summarizes the entire essay, highlighting the key points. Here, you should restate your thesis statement and the paper’s purpose. Do not introduce any new ideas or recommendations.

Here is a quick sample informative essay conclusion.

“Smoking is responsible for a majority of cardiovascular and respiratory diseases. It increases the risk of cancer, stroke, and diabetes. Nevertheless, people consume it because of the adrenaline rush that creates short-term energy and pleasure. With an effective action plan, anyone can quit this bad habit for good.”

How to Write an Informative Essay: The Writing Process

Now that you know the correct structure of an informative essay, here are some tips for writing one.

Review the Instructions

If you’re writing an informative essay for school, the teacher might have specific instructions for the activity or topic. Find out what you should write about and what they want to read from your paper.

Then, learn the required word and paragraph count. Some professors also have instructions for the writing style guide you should follow.

Formatting guidelines are also common among high school and college professors. Make sure to follow the font style, spacing, and size instructions.

A good essay is about more than just content. Teachers also grade these aspects to help you practice formality in writing. Don’t hesitate to ask questions if you’re unclear about the instructions.

Choose a Narrow Topic

Broad themes like love, weather, music, and technology are not recommended when writing an informative essay. Pick a topic that does not include general knowledge.

Consider smoking, for example. This topic is too broad for a 500-word essay. Try focusing on a subtopic, such as the diseases it causes or why people smoke. Perhaps you can also write about the correlation between smoking and poverty.

Create a Logical Thesis Before Writing the Body

You can only create subtopics for your informative essay if you already have a solid topic and thesis statement. Consider what you want your reader to know and why you choose this subject.

Start with a question in mind and write an initial answer. Research the topic, then formulate a tentative response. Make sure it’s based on facts with credible sources and summarizes your overall exposition. A logical thesis statement for this essay type also doesn’t include an opinion.

Create Several Drafts

Whether you’re asked to submit drafts or not, making several versions of your paper is crucial to ensure its quality. After every draft, you should create a more improved version of it with a better structure and fewer errors.

If you have to submit every draft, the lecturer may write their comments and return the paper for revision. Revising is the process of adding or removing information, fixing sentences, rearranging, or changing your evidence. It helps make your writing more understandable.

Here are some guide questions when revising your informative essay.

• Are some parts of your informative essay in proportion with others?
• Do you spend too much time on general knowledge and less on evidence?
• Does the paper follow the thesis statement?
• Is the formality appropriate?
• Does the essay follow a logical pattern?
• Are all the facts accurate?
• Have you cited all information appropriately?

Write a Successful Conclusion

Your outline for an informative essay should include a successful conclusion. It wraps up what you have been informing your readers. You can take from general to specific information while focusing on restating your topic.

Do not add extra information to your conclusion unless it’s a call to action for possible future research. In general, this part of the essay should restate your thesis statement, explain why the topic is essential, and address your main points.

One tip for writing a successful conclusion is to use your introductory paragraph as a guide. It also contains the thesis statement and main points. So, you can reword it and add a closing sentence. Provide closure to the reader, leaving them with a significant impression.

Proofread Your Paper

Proofreading is the final stage in the essay writing process before submitting your informative paper or persuasive essay. This step is crucial because professors also grade your essay or academic paper based on a technicality in informative writing. Check for grammar, punctuation, formatting, and spelling errors to make your writing more precise and accurate.

Review from the larger aspects of your text to the narrow ones. Check your complex sentence constructions, variety, vocabulary, and repetitive phrases. You also want to review your list of references. Are you using the correct style guide?

Learn More Writing Tips for Essay Writers

Writing an informative essay takes more than just research skills. You also need to ensure clarity, organization, and coherence in your work. Take a moment and read some informative essay examples you can find online. 

The best method to write an informative essay is to have a specific thesis statement which you can expand in the body paragraphs. Revise, edit, and proofread your work before submitting the final draft. I hope my guide and tips helped you on your way!

How to Write a Best Man Speech – Ideas, Tips & Examples

How to Write a High School Graduation Speech (+ Examples)

Leave a Comment

I accept the Privacy Policy

Reach out to us for sponsorship opportunities

Vivamus integer non suscipit taciti mus etiam at primis tempor sagittis euismod libero facilisi.

© 2024 My Speech Class

How to Write an Informative Essay

Table of contents

• 1 What is an Informative Essay?
• 2.1 1. Expository Essay
• 2.2 2. Narrative Essay
• 2.3 3. Cause-and-Effect Essay
• 2.4 4. Process Essay
• 2.5 5. Compare and Contrast Essay
• 2.6 6. Descriptive Essay
• 2.7 7. Problem-Solution Essay
• 3.1 Where to Get Informative Essay Ideas?
• 3.2 Good Informative Essay Topics
• 4 Informative Essay Topics on Education
• 5 Informative Essay Topics on Society
• 6 Informative Essay Topics on Persons
• 7 Informative Essay Topics on History
• 8 Informative Essay Topics on Business
• 9 Informative Essay Topics on Government
• 10 Informative Essay Topics on Politics
• 11 Informative Essay Topics on Culture
• 12 Informative Essay Topics for High-School and College Students
• 13 Informative and Surprising Essay Topics
• 14 Easy Informative Ideas For Essay
• 15 How to Start Conducting Research
• 16.1 1. Thesis statement
• 16.2 2. Introduction
• 16.3 3. Body paragraphs
• 16.4 4. Conclusion
• 17 Tips for Writing an Informative Essay
• 18 What I Need to Avoid While Writing an Informative Essay

As a student, having informative essay writing skills will come in handy in school and working environments. This writing process requires an author to provide readers with information on an occurrence, subject, idea, company, or thing. But using an approach to express an opinion or convince a reader in such an essay is not a good idea.

Although it is similar to  narrative essay writing , composing an informative essay demands critical thinking and credible research. And we will show you briefly how to write an informative essay successfully in this article. But first, let’s determine what an informative essay signifies.

What is an Informative Essay?

When dealing with an informative essay, you should know its main features. The purpose of an essay is not to persuade an audience by adding interesting information. Instead, its focus is on educating a reader on a specific topic by offering a how-to, analyzing data, and comparing controversial viewpoints about a particular topic.

In addition, other types of essays can be very similar to informative ones. And it is crucial to differentiate them and point out their specific features.

Variations of an Informative Essay

In academic practice, many essays can also be classified as informative. It happens because they have the same goal: to communicate information with audiences. They include the following:

• Expository Essay
• Narrative Essay
• Cause-and-Effect Essay
• Process Essay
• Compare-and-Contrast Essay
• Descriptive Essay
• Problem-Solution Essay

1. Expository Essay

This essay type is almost identical to informative essays. Their similarity lies in their purpose—to provide readers with information. However, while writing an expository essay , you must add supporting evidence to explain specific points, which goes beyond providing readers with information.

2. Narrative Essay

A narrative essay aims to inform readers about a specific topic comprehensively. Typically, such an essay is used to uncover a single theme. A narrative essay is informative, as it is not focused on convincing the audience about a point.

3. Cause-and-Effect Essay

This essay focuses on describing how the cause of a thing occurs and what effect it might result on another thing. Therefore, it is considered informative if it discloses the main idea of the similarities connecting two things. However, this essay must determine a cause or effect. It is also considered an argumentative essay.

4. Process Essay

The name of a process essay tells itself. It is used to uncover a detailed description of an operational mechanism of something. That’s why it is also considered informative. While writing this type of essay, you must clarify each step comprehensively.

5. Compare and Contrast Essay

Compare and contrast essay focuses on differentiating and highlighting the likenesses between multiple subjects. In other words, it could be either an argumentative or informative essay depending on the essay’s motive. For instance, “The similarities and differences between football and basketball” is an informative essay. On the other hand, “Why is football better than basketball?” is an argumentative essay.

6. Descriptive Essay

In a descriptive essay, you need to provide an accurate description of a topic’s object. It can be everything: a situation, a particular person, an occasion, and so on. While writing a descriptive essay , you must make it realistic enough to capture the reader’s imagination. This essay could either be written to give information or with an eventual objective.

7. Problem-Solution Essay

Such an essay aims to examine a suggested problem and offer several solutions. This essay is informative when you provide several solutions to a raised issue. However, you will need to apply specific writing tools to convince a reader that one solution is superior to the rest.

Thus, all the types of essays mentioned above are informative because of their nature to provide some information. Of course, what format of the message is used in each kind is another topic for discussion. But if you prefer writing a persuasive essay , you can approach our service and receive an excellent piece of writing.

Select your Topic

Writing an informative essay starts with defining a topic. It is challenging to select a topic, as this essay’s type must be original, impressive, and meaningful. With this in mind, you should pick a topic that can explain new aspects of known phenomena or innovative approaches used in various life spheres.

Where to Get Informative Essay Ideas?

To ensure you have enough to write about and your paper will be interesting, it’s important to farm out some ideas. Reading the news is a great place to start generating some perspectives for an informational topic. Newsworthy topics will be of current interest and can be in many subjects. This will help you apply what you see in the real world to the theoretical work you’re putting together. You may also browse some popular sites such as Quora or Reddit to see the burning questions. In our digital age, a wealth of information is available to anyone with an Internet connection.

Good Informative Essay Topics

So now that we’ve sourced some methods of digging up a good idea, we need to determine which one is best. First, you want to ensure enough information is available for research. If your topic is too narrow or outdated, you’ll have trouble finding credible sources to give weight to your position. On the other end, if your topic is too broad, you won’t be able to dive into specifics to present anything worthwhile.

I, Pencil: My Family Tree as Told to Leonard E. Read (L. Read, 1958). In this informational topic, the simple process of making a pencil significantly influenced the leading economists of the day. Analyzing the ways and means we do things, no matter how basic, can bring much value to the academic community.

If you feel a lack of fresh ideas and need essay help , we gathered some topic examples for you:

Informative Essay Topics on Education

• Educational Disparities among Black and Hispanics
• Federal Judge Struck Down a North Carolina School’s Policy
• Four Components of Developing Successful Reading Skills
• Funds For College Tuition
• Gender Discrimination Scandal at Tokyo Medical University
• Gender-Based Violence Between Students
• Hate Speech Debate and Discussion
• History and Effectiveness of Homeschooling
• Homeschooling in the United States of America
• Homeschooling Trend and Future Outlook
• How To Become a Chef After Growing Up Nowadays
• Industrial Facilities
• The Gig Economy
• The Impact of Inclusion and Equal Opportunity Policies
• The Rise of Remote Work

Informative Essay Topics on Society

• Racism Around the World
• Racism: Pipelines, Geography, and Geology
• Is Racism Still a Current Issue in America
• The Definition of Racism
• International and U.S Helping IIlegal Immigration
• Does Illegal Immigration Impact Texas?
• We’re Going to Build the Wall, We Have no Choice
• Illegal Immigration And Crime
• Cyberbullying Laws
• Cyberbullying: A Growing Problem
• Cyberbullying and 13 Reasons Why
• Reducing School Gun Violence in New Mexico
• Mental Health Screenings and the Effect on Gun Violence
• Why Gun Violence Increasing
• Police Brutality Against Black Communities

Informative Essay Topics on Persons

• Barack Obama: His Life and Career
• The most iconic rulers of Egypt
• President John F. Kennedy’s Assassination
• Nikola Tesla: Electrical Engineering
• Elon Musk’s Influence
• About Donatello Michelangelo
• The Leadership Style of Mahatma Gandhi
• The Impact of Martin Luther King Jr.’s “I Have a Dream” Speech
• Examining the Symbolism and Feminist Themes in Frida Kahlo’s Artwork
• Steve Jobs’s Innovative Vision and Contribution to the Technology Industry
• The Legacy of Marie Curie
• The Psychological Profile of Sigmund Freud
• Analyzing Oprah Winfrey’s Influence on Media, Philanthropy, and Empowerment
• Ernest Hemingway’s Writing Style
• The Philosophy of Aristotle

Informative Essay Topics on History

• A History of Slavery in the United States
• The Reformation Evangelicalism and the British Anti-Slavery Movement
• Why Did the Holocaust Happen?
• The U.S. Government’s Disregard of the Jewish Holocaust
• The Minie Ball Shaped
• Cases Of Unlawful Killings
• Role of Technology in The American Civil War
• Slavery Is An Established Social Institution
• Carlos Castillo Overthrew Democrat
• The Civil War Was The Deadliest
• The Syrian Civil War
• The Battle of Gettysburg Changed Everything
• The Industrial Era
• Industrial Revolution Evolved In Britain
• The Impact of the Industrial Revolution on Society

Informative Essay Topics on Business

• The Disney and Fox Merger
• The Ins and Outs of “The Happiest Place on Earth”
• Planning A Trip to Disney
• About The Walt Disney Company
• Starbucks Brewing Digital Transformation
• History Of Starbucks
• What Do We Know About Starbucks
• Netflix Converted Itself From a DVD
• Spotify Hulu Bundle vs. Netflix
• General Motors – Largest American Automobile Manufacturer
• Successful Business of Apple Company
• Board of Directors for Apple Company
• Apple is One of the Biggest Companies on the Planet
• Apple Inc. Company History
• General Overview Of Apple Company

Informative Essay Topics on Government

• The History of Brown vs. The Board of Education Topeka
• Homosexuality In Modern Day Society
• Same-Sex Marriage – Statistics
• In the 1950s-1960s, African Americans Have Been Striving and Struggling
• Acts After French and Indian War
• Child Labor in the US
• Equal Society in the United States
• The Significance and Legacy of Brown vs. Board of Education
• The Evolution of LGBTQ+ Rights
• The Legalization and Impact of Marriage Equality
• The Civil Rights Movement
• The Consequences of the French and Indian War
• The Impact of Disinformation in the Digital Age
• Towards an Equal Society
• The Role of Government in Climate Change Mitigation

Informative Essay Topics on Politics

• U.S Imperialism
• America’s Imperialism
• Immigration and Donald Trump’s Lies
• Donald Trump’s First Year in Office
• The Election of Barack Obama
• Border Wall: Good for the Country
• Gaining Independence
• Arawaks and Maroons
• The Rise of Populism
• The Impact of Social Media on Political Campaigns
• The Role of Lobbying and Interest Groups in Shaping Policy
• Electoral Systems and Democratic Governance
• The Power of Political Satire
• Globalization and Nationalism
• The Impact of Political Scandals on Public Trust

Informative Essay Topics on Culture

• Race and LGBTQ Discrimination
• Renaissance: Impact on Cultural Movements and Religious Reformations
• Freedom of Speech in The United States
• The LGBTQ+ Community
• Enslaved and Free Black Marriages
• Religion and the Renaissance
• Hispanic Youth with Alcohol Abuse
• Thai Culture and Society
• Teenage Pregnancy
• Feminism since “Ancient Rome”
• Pakistan and Gender Equality
• Gender Roles in Society
• Child Labor and Somalia
• Is Sexual Orientation Determined At Birth?
• Race Relations Have Improved in America

Informative Essay Topics for High-School and College Students

• Changing nature of the Indian party system
• Causes of the Scientific Revolution
• Become A Better Speed Reader
• Writing Essays For Money
• How To Have A Social Life As A Student
• Choosing The Best Fraternity/Sorority
• College Athletics And How To Get Accepted
• Applying For Scholarships
• How To Write A Research Paper
• Public Relations In The Dorm
• Getting The Most Out Of University
• Where To Find The Best Student Discounts
• The Importance of Time Management for College Success
• Effective Study Habits
• Navigating College Finances
• The Moral Teaching of Paul
• Winning arguments even when you’re wrong
• What to Expect on the SAT
• Grammar Tips For English Class
• How To Pass The Driving Test
• Implementing Ai In The Classroom
• Deciding Which Classes To Take
• How To Get Good Grades In Hard Subjects
• Career Choices After School
• How To Find The Best College
• How To Write A Resume
• The Benefits of Physical Exercise and Sports for Teenagers
• The Importance of Financial Literacy
• Exploring Different Career Paths
• The Role of Social Media in Teenagers’ Lives

Informative essay topics can help you write a college essay by informing you of the essential facts, ideas, and arguments. Furthermore, they provide an opportunity to think critically, organize a topic from multiple perspectives, and develop an argument that will help you write a compelling and convincing college essay. Moreover, an informative essay topic can allow you to learn about a range of topics, making it easier for you to connect new information to the topic and use it to formulate your essay.

Informative and Surprising Essay Topics

• LGBTQ Judaism
• Medical Benefits Of Marijuana
• Why Are Elephants Afraid Of Bees
• The Highest Mountains Are Below Sea Level
• Why Do People Believe The World Is Flat
• Why Do We Have Different Color Eyes
• Abiotic Oil Theory And An Unlimited Supply Of Fuel
• The Subconscious And Why We Dream
• Microbes And The Benefits They Provide
• Advanced Technology In The Ancient World
• How Computer Technology Derived From Music
• The Science Behind Laughter
• The Surprising History of Chocolate
• The Incredible World of Microorganisms
• The Fascinating Life of Honeybees

Easy Informative Ideas For Essay

• Choosing The Best Birthday Gift
• The Best Ways To Tie A Knot
• Throwing A Great Party
• Best Ideas For Date Night
• Current And Emerging Fashion Trends
• Game Of Thrones Explained In 1,000 Words
• Process Of Buying A Car
• Taking Care Of A Pet
• What To Look For With Opening A Bank Account
• Growing A Home Garden
• The Benefits of Regular Exercise
• Tips for Effective Time Management
• The Importance of a Balanced Diet
• The Basics of Internet Safety
• The Importance of Recycling
• Facts of Gender Roles
• Platonic Dualism in ‘Allegory of the Cave’
• How Bees Build Their Nests
• Sustaining Life On Neighboring Planets
• The Process Of Converting Seawater To Drinking Water
• Building A Net Positive With Solar Panels
• Deciphering The Laws Of Thermodynamics
• Why Does Lightning Exist?
• The Best Hand Sanitizer And Why
• How Things Are Made
• Alternative History, what if England won the Revolution
• How to Live as a Survivalist
• The Rise of Cryptocurrencies
• Sustainable Fashion
• Artificial Intelligence in Healthcare

How to Start Conducting Research

Like any other essay, you must gather the required information for your work through research. Creating a concept map with words and phrases connected with your central topic is a good idea. This will help you stay focused on the main aspects of your paper. Ensure you only use reliable websites, books, and articles to impart accurate information. Also, it is useful to note valuable citations and research details, not to overlook important facts. As soon as you have all the material wrapped up, it is time to structure it and bring it into the presentable form.

Steps to Writing a Successful Informative Essay

This section discloses the key stages of writing a successful, informative essay. The precondition for this step is that the topic title is defined and extensive research has been done. Now, you have a package of information you need to order and provide a smooth transition between sections in your paper.

An informative essay must have an introductory part that leads the reader to the key point of the composition. And you should know how to write an informative essay introduction to entice the reader’s interest from the very beginning. If you don’t have enough time for writing, you can always reach out to our support team and say, “ write my essay please ,” and we will get it done. Our writers are always ready to help.

There are many benefits to creating an informative essay outline:

• It helps to organize your thoughts and ideas before you begin writing.
• It gives others insight into what your research is about by including background information, sources, and conclusions.
• It provides an opportunity to share your work with others in a way that they can understand.

1. Thesis statement

Many students question how to write a thesis statement for an informative essay. And we will help you understand it in a brief explanation. A thesis plays an important role. It helps focus a reader’s attention on the essay’s purpose. It should comprise the key facts. Make sure to provide not a too-long thesis statement but a short and accurate one.

If you can create a proper thesis statement, it would serve as a guideline for your analysis. Aside from that, an informative essay thesis must not be persuasive but highlight what will come to the reader.

2. Introduction

An introduction represents a summary of what you will reveal in your essay. The question of how to write an introduction for an informative essay is among those challenges bothering students. To solve it, you should consider how to make it engaging and captivating. Also, include your informative essay thesis statement in an introduction. Thus, your reader will be curious and eager to continue reading your essay.

3. Body paragraphs

In this part of your essay, you must reveal the main message. To make it more organized, divide the general information into a few paragraphs, for example, three. Each paragraph must be easy-to-read and contain details you aim to share on the topic. In academic writing, using only reliable sources to make your essay unique is crucial. So it would be best if you took proper time while researching.

4. Conclusion

The summarizing part of an essay is a conclusion, and you should know how to write a conclusion for an informative essay. It might be the content of the 5th paragraph of a paper. It leads an essay to summarize the hot points mentioned in the body. In this section, you should revise the essay’s purpose again but from another angle.

Tips for Writing an Informative Essay

Provide your plan well, select an appropriate topic, and know the informative essay structure – all these steps will make your essay writing process more manageable. If you know how to write a 500 word essay , composing a proper informative essay will be easy. However, we listed some tips that might help you in writing a proper informative essay:

• Dive into the instructions for your assignment
• Think of the unique essay title
• Make sure you do an extensive research
• Create an impressive thesis statement
• Create an outline
• Make your introduction catchy
• Write each body paragraph with contents from trusted sources
• Do not include any information in the conclusion previously not stated in the body

An informative essay can be a great way to educate readers on a particular topic. The key to writing a successful essay is to provide clear and concise information without overwhelming the reader. PapersOwl can provide you with the necessary guidance to ensure that your informative essay is of the highest standard and contains only accurate and up-to-date information.

What I Need to Avoid While Writing an Informative Essay

Writing a standard informative essay also involves a range of points better to avoid. Among them are:

• Avoid including supporting evidence. This makes your work poorly informative and less argumentative.
• Be cautious about using persuasive words and phrases.
• Don’t allow repetition of your thoughts and information at large to happen. Unless it is necessary to connect the dots, there is no need to mention any point more than once.

Knowing how to write an informative essay will be useful to you academically and professionally. Even though it appears difficult, learning the appropriate tips for writing it and utilizing the skills of experts will help you get through it.

Knowing how to write an informative essay will be helpful to you academically and professionally. Even though it is difficult, learning the appropriate tips for writing it and benefiting from experts’ skills will enable you to get through it.

Writing this type of essay requires you to pass information through the reader without persuasion. However, it would help if you learned how to catch readers’ interest using appropriate thesis statements. By following simple insights, you will get a successful, informative essay.

Readers also enjoyed

WHY WAIT? PLACE AN ORDER RIGHT NOW!

Just fill out the form, press the button, and have no worries!

We use cookies to give you the best experience possible. By continuing we’ll assume you board with our cookie policy.

Informative Essay

Informative Essay Outline

Informative Essay Outline - Steps, Template. & Samples

People also read

Informative Essay - Writing Tips, Examples and Topics

The Ultimate Handbook for Informative Essay Topics

Informative writing is one of the most common writing assignments for students. These essays aim to educate and inform the readers about any topic.

Similar to other forms of writing, good informative essays are well-structured and well-organized. They should present facts and information in a coherent way, connecting the dots and explaining the topic along the way.

To ensure that, you need to make an outline. In this blog, you will get a step-by-step guide and tips on outlining an informative essay. Plus, there will be examples to demonstrate and make it easier for you.

So read on!

• 1. How to Make an Informative Essay Outline?
• 2. Informative Essay Outline Template
• 3. Informative Essay Outline Examples

How to Make an Informative Essay Outline?

An outline serves as a roadmap for your writing journey. It aims to organize your ideas and information in a logically sound structure, making your essay coherent, connected, and engaging.

The outline should lay out all the points you want to include in your essay and present the connection between your paragraphs.

Here is how you could do it step by step:

Step 1: Choosing a Topic 

Before you can make an outline, you need a clear and narrow topic that you want to write about. Remember, informative essays are meant to be factual and educational. 

Unlike persuasive essays or argumentative essays , you don’t need to provide your point of view or arguments. So select a topic that you can present factually while being engaging and driving meaningful conversation.

Not sure about the topic? Head to our informative essay topics blog to find 100+ interesting ideas to choose from.

Step 2: Do Some Research & Note Down Key Points

Once you have a clear and well-defined topic, dive into the research. Gather facts and information about your topic from credible sources, such as journals, reputable websites, and books. 

As you research, jot down key concepts, facts, and statistics relevant to your topic. Don’t worry about organizing or arranging them yet. This step is for free exploration, so you can have all the material and tools you need for a great essay.

Step 3: Introduction Outline

Now, it's time to craft an introduction that sets the stage for your informative essay. Here's how to outline this crucial opening section:

• Hook Your Audience: Begin with a compelling hook that grabs your reader's attention. This could be a surprising fact, a thought-provoking question, or a relevant quote. Make them curious from the start.
• Provide Context: Add some points about the background and context of your topic. This would help your readers understand the significance of the subject matter without diving into the details just yet. Set the scene for what's to come.
• Thesis Statement: Clearly state your thesis statement – the main point or argument of your essay. This should encapsulate the essence of your chosen topic and give readers a roadmap for what to expect in the following sections.

Here’s what the outline for your informative paper introduction would look like:

Step 4: Outlining Body Paragraphs

With your introduction paving the way, let's delve into structuring the body paragraphs of your informative essay. This is where the depth of your research comes into playlife.

Here's what to include in body paragraphs outline:

• Topic Sentences: Begin each body paragraph with a clear and concise topic sentence . This sentence should introduce the main point of the paragraph
• Supporting Points/Evidence: Follow your topic sentence with supporting evidence, such as facts, examples, or statistics. This is where you arrange and organize the information you gathered during research. 
• Maintain a Logical Order: Arrange your body paragraphs in a logical order that enhances the overall coherence of your essay. Whether it's chronological, order of importance, or any other logical sequence, ensure a natural progression of ideas.

You could include as many body paragraphs as you need according to your topic. However, having 3-6 body paragraphs is usually enough. This template shows the outline for body paragraphs:

Step 5: Conclusion Outline

The conclusion serves as the closing act, leaving a lasting impression on your readers. Craft an impactful conclusion with the following outline:

• Summarize Key Points: Begin by summarizing the main points discussed in your essay. This reinforces the key takeaways for your readers, reminding them of the valuable information you've presented.
• Restate Thesis: Revisit your thesis statement, but avoid simple copy-pasting. Rephrase it to underscore the central theme of your essay, reminding readers of the purpose and significance of your chosen topic.
• End with an Impact: If your essay is geared towards a specific call to action, whether it's further research, advocacy, or a change in perspective, clearly articulate this in your conclusion.

Informative Essay Outline Template

An informative essay outline includes introduction, body paragraphs, and conclusion. Here are some complete outline templates to help you organize your ideas properly. 

5 Paragraph Informative Essay Outline

Here is an outline template in pdf form. Download and use it to make an effective outline.

Sample Informative Essay Outline Template

Informative Essay Outline Examples

Below; you can find some interesting, informative essay outline examples that you can review to get started.

Informative Essay Outline 5th Grade

Sample Informative Essay Outline Middle School

Informative Essay Outline High School

Informative Essay Outline College

College Stress Informative Essay Outline

APA Informative Essay Outline

MLA Informative Essay Outline

To wrap up, 

To write an informative essay, you need more than just facts and information. You also need a coherent and logical outline to make your writing effective. 

With this guide, you are now able to create a good outline that makes your writing process smoother and more enjoyable. Remember, an outline is the basis of your essay, so making a strong outline will definitely help you craft a well-written essay.

However, we understand that sometimes informative writing is not easy. But don’t worry, you can get expert help easily! 

MyPerfectWords.com is an expert writing service that provides custom essays at affordable prices. We have a team of highly qualified and experienced writers who aim to help students struggling with their academic papers. 

Contact our  top essay writing service today!

Write Essay Within 60 Seconds!

Dr. Barbara is a highly experienced writer and author who holds a Ph.D. degree in public health from an Ivy League school. She has worked in the medical field for many years, conducting extensive research on various health topics. Her writing has been featured in several top-tier publications.

Paper Due? Why Suffer? That’s our Job!

Keep reading

• Try for free

How to Write an Essay Outline + Essay Outline Examples

Download for free, how to write an essay outline + essay outline examples .

Writing an essay can seem like a daunting task, but one of the best ways to tackle this challenge is to organize your ideas into a well-structured essay outline. This guide will walk you through the process of creating an essay outline, complete with essay outline examples, to ensure your next essay is a masterpiece.

We’ve compiled a variety of essay outline examples to help you understand how to structure your own essay. We'll cover persuasive essays, narrative essays, descriptive essays, expository essays, and even provide a sample research paper outline. Each example will provide you with an idea of how to lay out the structure and details for each type of essay.

Looking for a printable list of essay outline examples? Our printable PDF features essay outline examples and templates that your students can use as examples when writing research papers, or as a supplement for an essay-writing unit

Why write an essay outline? 

An outline serves as the skeleton of your essay, giving you a clear and organized path to articulate your thoughts. Not only does it make writing an essay significantly easier, but it also allows you to present your arguments coherently and effectively.

An essay outline will help you organize your main ideas and determine the order in which you are going to write about them.

Types of essay outlines

Several types of essay outlines can be used when writing an essay. The two most common types are the alphanumeric outline and the decimal outline.

An alphanumeric outline typically uses Roman numerals, capital letters, Arabic numerals, and lowercase letters, in that order. Each level provides a different level of specificity. This structure is a very effective way to think through how you will organize and present the information in your essay. It also helps you develop a strong argumentative essay.

Alternatively, a decimal outline uses only numbers, and each subsection is a decimal subdivision of the main section. This type of outline is often used in scientific papers.

Persuasive essay outline example 

In the following section, we'll explore a persuasive essay outline example on competitive swimming. The purpose of a persuasive essay is to convince the reader of a particular point of view or idea, using compelling arguments and evidence.

In this case, the argument is that competitive swimming is an ideal sport for kids. The essay will present a series of arguments to support this view, demonstrating the various benefits of competitive swimming for children.

Competitive Swimming, an Ideal Sport for Kids

Introduction

Start your argumentative essay outline by stating your point of view and/or presenting your persuasive argument.

Thesis: Competitive swimming is a great alternative to other youth sports.

Body Paragraph 1

Introduce your primary persuasive argument and provide supporting details in your argumentative essay outline.

Topic Sentence:   Competitive swimming provides the same benefits as other sports.

• Detail Sentence 1:   It is good exercise and builds muscular strength.
• Detail Sentence 2:   It promotes cooperation among team members, especially in relays.

Body Paragraph 2

Introduce a secondary argument and provide supporting details.

Topic Sentence:   Competitive swimming provides some unique additional benefits.

• Detail Sentence 1:   Swimming is an important skill that can be used forever.
• Detail Sentence 2:  Swimming poses a reduced risk of injury.
• Detail Sentence 3:   Each swimmer can easily chart his or her own progress.

Conclude your essay writing with a summary of the thesis and persuasive arguments. Brainstorming details that support your point-of-view is a great way to start before creating your outline and first draft.

Concluding Sentence:   There are many reasons why competitive swimming is a great alternative to other youth sports, including...

Narrative essay outline example

In the following section, we will examine a narrative essay outline example titled "How Losing a Swim Meet Made Me a Better Swimmer." Narrative essays aim to tell a story, often about a personal experience, to engage the reader and convey a particular point or lesson.

In this case, the narrative revolves around the author's personal journey of improvement and self-discovery through swimming. The essay will illustrate how an initial setback served as a catalyst for significant improvement and personal growth.

How Losing a Swim Meet Made Me a Better Swimmer

Introduce the subject of your narrative essay using a thesis statement and a plan of development (POD).

Thesis: The first time I participated in a competitive swim meet, I finished in last place. With more focused training and coaching, I was able to finish 2nd in the State Championship meet.

Plan of development:   I was very disappointed in my results from the first meet, so I improved my training and fitness. This helped me swim better and faster, which helped me to greatly improve my results.

Set the scene and provide supporting details. Again, start by brainstorming different ways to begin; then go ahead and craft an outline and a first draft.

Topic Sentence:   I was embarrassed at finishing last in my first competitive swim meet, so I began working on ways to improve my performance.

• Detail Sentence 1:   I spent extra time with my coach and the team captains learning how to improve my technique.
• Detail Sentence 2:   I started running and lifting weights to increase my overall fitness level.

Provide additional supporting details, descriptions, and experiences to develop your general idea in your essay writing.

Topic Sentence:   Over time, my results began to improve and I was able to qualify for the state championship meet.

• Detail Sentence 1:   My technique and fitness level made me faster and able to swim longer distances.
• Detail Sentence 2:  I steadily got better, and I began winning or placing in the top 3 at most of my meets.
• Detail Sentence 3:  My results improved to the point that I was able to qualify for the state championship meet.

Body Paragraph 3

The next step in the writing process is to provide additional supporting details, descriptions, and experiences. You can then divide them up under different headings.

Topic Sentence:   With my new confidence, techniques, and fitness level, I was able to finish 2nd at the state championship meet.

• Detail Sentence 1:   I was able to swim well against a higher level of competition due to my training and technique.
• Detail Sentence 2:  I was no longer embarrassed about my last-place finish, and was able to use it as motivation!

Conclude the narrative essay with a recap of the events described or a reflection on the lesson learned in the story. Briefly summarize the details you included under each heading.

Concluding Sentence:   I used my last-place finish in my first competitive swim meet as motivation to improve my performance.

Descriptive essay outline example

We will now delve into a descriptive essay outline example. Descriptive essays aim to create a vivid and detailed description of a person, place, object, or event to paint a picture for the reader. The intention is to immerse the reader in the subject matter fully.

In this case, the essay provides an in-depth description of a visit to the Hockey Hall of Fame in Toronto. The essay will use sensory and descriptive details to create a vivid and memorable experience for the reader.

Visiting the Hockey Hall of Fame

Introduce the subject of your descriptive essay with a thesis statement covering the person, place, object, etc. you are writing about.

Thesis: The Hockey Hall of Fame is full of sights, sounds, and experiences that will delight hockey fans of all ages.

Set the scene and provide factual details.

Topic Sentence:   The Hockey Hall of Fame is located in Toronto, Canada and features exhibits from amateur and professional hockey.

• Detail Sentence 1:   The Hall is located in downtown Toronto and is visited by 1 million people every year.
• Detail Sentence 2:   You can see exhibits ranging from the early beginnings of the sport to the modern NHL and Olympics.

Provide additional sensory details, descriptions, and experiences.

Topic Sentence:   There are many types of exhibits and shows, including activities you can participate in.

• Detail Sentence 1:  Player statues, plaques, and jerseys decorate the walls in every room of the Hall.
• Detail Sentence 2:  Many of the exhibits have movies and multimedia activities that make you feel like you're part of the game.
• Detail Sentence 3:  You can even practice shooting pucks on virtual versions of some of the game's greatest goalies!

Conclude the essay with a paragraph that restates the thesis and recaps the descriptive and sensory details.

Concluding Sentence:   The Hockey Hall of Fame is an experience that combines the best sights, sounds and history of the game in Toronto.

Expository essay outline example

In the following section, we will explore an example of an expository essay. An expository essay aims to explain or describe a topic using logic. It presents a balanced analysis of a topic based on facts—with no references to the writer’s opinions or emotions.

For this example, the topic is "Why The School Year Should be Shorter". This essay will use logic and reason to demonstrate that a shorter school year could provide various benefits for students, teachers, and school districts.

Why The School Year Should be Shorter

Introduce the primary argument or main point of an expository essay, or other types of academic writing, using a thesis statement and context.

Thesis: The school year is too long, and should be shortened to benefit students and teachers, save districts money, and improve test scores and academic results. Other countries have shorter school years, and achieve better results.

Describe the primary argument and provide supporting details and evidence.

Topic Sentence:   A shorter school year would benefit students and teachers by giving them more time off.

• Detail Sentence 1:   Students and teachers would be able to spend more time with their families.
• Detail Sentence 2:  Teachers would be refreshed and rejuvenated and able to teach more effectively.

Provide additional supporting details and evidence, as in this essay outline example.

Topic Sentence:  A shorter school year would save school districts millions of dollars per year.

• Detail Sentence 1:   Districts could save money on energy costs by keeping schools closed longer.
• Detail Sentence 2:  A shorter school year means much lower supply and transportation costs.
• Detail Sentence 3:  Well-rested and happy students would help improve test scores.

Provide additional or supplemental supporting details, evidence, and analysis, as in the essay outline example.

Topic Sentence:   Shortening the school year would also provide many benefits for parents and caregivers.

• Detail Sentence 1:   A shorter school year would mean less stress and running around for parents.
• Detail Sentence 2:  Caregivers would have more balance in their lives with fewer days in the school year.

Conclude the essay with an overview of the main argument, and highlight the importance of your evidence and conclusion.

Concluding Sentence:   Shortening the school year would be a great way to improve the quality of life for students, teachers, and parents while saving money for districts and improving academic results.

Sample research paper outline

Now let’s dive into a research paper outline. Unlike a typical essay, a research paper presents a thorough and detailed study on a specific topic. However, it shares the same foundation with an essay in terms of structuring the ideas logically and coherently. The outline for a research paper includes an introduction, a series of topic points that cover various aspects of the main topic, and a conclusion.

This research paper will explore the background of Mt. Everest, the major explorers who attempted its summit, and the impact of these expeditions on Mt. Everest and the local community.

The Conquest of Mt. Everest

• Location of Mt. Everest
• Geography of the Surrounding Area
• Height of the mountain
• Jomolungma (Tibetan name)
• Sagarmatha (Nepalese name)
• The number of people who have climbed Everest to date
• First to reach the summit (1953)
• Led a team of experienced mountain climbers who worked together
• Norgay was an experienced climber and guide who accompanied Hillary
• Sherpas still used to guide expeditions
• Leader of the failed 1996 expedition
• Led group of (mainly) tourists with little mountain climbing experience
• Loss of trees due to high demand for wood for cooking and heating for tourists.
• Piles of trash left by climbing expeditions
• Expedition fees provide income for the country
• Expeditions provide work for the Sherpas, contributing to the local economy.
• Introduction of motor vehicles
• Introduction of electricity

The Everest essay outline template is based on a research paper submitted by Alexandra Ferber, 9th grade.

Happy writing!

Writing an essay outline is a crucial step in crafting a well-structured and coherent essay. Regardless of the type of essay - be it persuasive, narrative, descriptive, expository, or a research paper - an outline serves as a roadmap that organizes your thoughts and guides your writing process. The various essay outline examples provided above serve as a guide to help you structure your own essay. Remember, the key to a great essay lies not just in the content but in its organization and flow. Happy writing!

Featured High School Resources

Related Resources

Informative Essay

An Informative Essay stands out in the academic world as a tool for students to elaborate on specific topics with depth and clarity. By incorporating factual details and supporting evidence, these essays educate and enlighten the reader. This guide, enriched with practical essay examples , is tailored to assist students in mastering the art of crafting compelling and informative essays. Whether for school assignments or personal exploration, these examples provide valuable insights into effective informative essay writing.

What is an Informative Essay?

An informative essay is a genre of writing aimed at educating the audience on a particular topic or subject. This type of essay doesn’t just offer facts but also provides insights and explanations to help readers understand the subject matter more deeply. Unlike persuasive essays, which aim to convince readers of a particular viewpoint, informative essays are neutral; they do not express the writer’s personal opinions or arguments.

Download Informative Essay Bundle

You may have already been flooded with all these load of essays that your teacher asked you to write. You are probably thinking of a clever way on how to get away from the situation where you probably have not ever dreamed of. However, it is a task that we should all be thankful for.  Essay writing actually brings more benefits than browsing through those social media platforms that you have already memorized. It does not only sharpen your minds and makes you more creative than putting likes and hitting shares of your friends’ post. The ability to share something from your mind is definitely a plausible act.

Informative Essay Format

Crafting an informative essay requires a structured approach to organize the wealth of information in a way that’s easily understandable to the reader. The format of an informative essay typically consists of three main parts: the introduction, the body, and the conclusion. Following this format helps in developing a coherent and logically flowing essay that effectively informs the reader.

Introduction

The introduction sets the stage for the entire essay. It should start with a hook that grabs the reader’s attention, such as a surprising fact, a question, or a vivid description of the topic. Following the hook, provide some background information to help readers understand the context of the essay. Finally, the introduction should end with a clear and concise thesis statement that outlines the main points or aspects of the topic that will be discussed. This statement acts as a roadmap for the essay, guiding the reader through the information presented.

Components of the Introduction: Hook : Engages the reader’s interest. Background Information : Provides context for the topic. Thesis Statement : Outlines the main points to be discussed.

Body Paragraphs

The body of an informative essay is where the main information is presented. It should be divided into paragraphs, with each paragraph focusing on a specific point or aspect of the topic. Start each paragraph with a topic sentence that introduces the point to be discussed. Follow this with supporting details, such as facts, examples, statistics, and quotes from credible sources. Each paragraph should be coherent and focused, contributing to the overall argument or presentation of the topic.

Structure of Body Paragraphs: Topic Sentence : Introduces the main idea of the paragraph. Supporting Details : Facts, examples, and evidence supporting the topic sentence. Transition : Smoothly connects to the next paragraph or point.

The conclusion of an informative essay wraps up the essay by summarizing the main points discussed. It should restate the thesis statement in a new way, reflecting the information presented in the essay. The conclusion can also highlight the importance or relevance of the topic, offering final insights or thoughts for the reader to consider. This section should leave the reader with a clear understanding of the topic and its significance. Elements of the Conclusion: Restatement of Thesis : Reflects the main points made in the essay. Summary of Main Points : Briefly recaps the key information discussed. Final Insight : Offers closing thoughts or implications of the topic.

Formatting Tips:

Use clear and concise language throughout the essay. Ensure each paragraph flows logically to the next. Cite sources where necessary to back up facts and claims. Keep the essay focused on informing the reader, avoiding personal opinions.

Types of Informative Essay

Download This Image

• Descriptive Essay : Provides a detailed description of a person, place, object, or event, using sensory details to paint a vivid picture for the reader.
• Definition Essay : Explores the meaning, history, and implications of a complex concept or term, offering a deep and thorough understanding beyond basic definitions.
• Compare and Contrast Essay : Analyzes two or more subjects by comparing their similarities and contrasting their differences, highlighting the nuances between them.
• Cause and Effect Essay : Examines the reasons why something happened (cause) and the outcomes that followed (effect), aiming to establish a clear relationship between events.
• Process Analysis Essay : Explains how something is done, how something occurs, or how something works, in a step-by-step format, providing clear instructions or insights.
• Problem-Solution Essay : Identifies a specific problem and proposes one or more solutions, focusing on presenting viable and effective ways to address the issue at hand.
• Classification Essay : Organizes or sorts different subjects or objects into categories based on shared characteristics, providing a clear understanding of their relationships and differences.
• Expository Essay : Presents a balanced analysis of a topic, using facts, statistics, and examples, aiming to explain or clarify a subject in a straightforward, unbiased manner.

How is an Informative Essay Structured?

An informative essay is structured in a clear, organized manner to effectively convey information to the reader. This structure consists of three main parts: the introduction, the body paragraphs, and the conclusion. Here’s how each part is typically organized:

• Hook : Begins with a captivating opening to grab the reader’s attention. This could be an interesting fact, a question, or a startling statistic related to the topic.
• Background Information : Provides context for the topic being discussed. This section gives the reader any necessary background information to understand the essay.
• Thesis Statement : Concludes the introduction with a clear, concise statement that outlines the main points or focus of the essay. This statement guides the rest of the essay.
• Topic Sentence : Each body paragraph starts with a topic sentence that introduces the main idea of the paragraph, relating back to the thesis statement.
• Supporting Details : These are facts, examples, or explanations that provide evidence to support the topic sentence. This may include statistics, quotes from credible sources, or logical arguments.
• Analysis : This section interprets the supporting details, explaining how they relate to the topic and the thesis statement. It’s where the writer’s insight comes into play, providing depth to the information presented.
• Transition : Each paragraph ends with a sentence that provides a smooth transition to the next paragraph, maintaining the flow of the essay.
• Summary of Main Points : Begins by briefly summarizing the key points or information presented in the body paragraphs, reinforcing the essay’s main ideas.
• Restatement of the Thesis : Reiterates the thesis statement in light of the information and analysis provided, emphasizing the essay’s main argument or focus.
• Closing Statement : Concludes with a final thought or call to action, leaving the reader with something to ponder or suggesting steps for further exploration of the topic

7 steps for Writing an Informative Essay

• Choose Your Topic : Select a topic that interests you and meets the assignment’s criteria. Ensure it is broad enough to research but narrow enough to be covered in your essay.
• Conduct Research : Gather information from reliable sources to understand your topic thoroughly. Look for facts, statistics, and examples that will provide a solid foundation for your essay.
• Create an Outline : Organize your thoughts and research into an outline. This will help structure your essay logically, ensuring a clear flow of ideas from the introduction through the body paragraphs to the conclusion.
• Write the Introduction : Begin with a hook to capture the reader’s interest, followed by background information to set the context for your topic. Conclude the introduction with a thesis statement that presents the main focus or argument of your essay.
• Develop Body Paragraphs : Each paragraph should focus on a single main idea that supports your thesis. Start with a topic sentence, followed by evidence and examples. Include your analysis to explain how this evidence relates to your topic.
• Conclude Your Essay : Summarize the main points of your essay, restate your thesis in light of the information provided, and offer a final thought or call to action. This is your chance to reinforce the importance of your topic and the information you’ve presented.
• Revise and Edit : Review your essay for any errors or unclear parts. Check for grammar, punctuation, and spelling mistakes. Ensure your writing is clear, concise, and logically organized. It may help to get feedback from others or to step away from your essay for a while before reviewing it again.

Purpose of Informative Essays

Informative essays serve a foundational role in educational and communication contexts, aiming to enlighten the reader on a specific topic or subject matter. The core purpose of these essays is to inform, explain, and educate without presenting the author’s opinion or persuading the reader to adopt a particular viewpoint. Here’s a deeper look into the primary objectives of informative essays:

Educate the Reader

The most direct purpose of an informative essay is to educate its audience. By presenting facts, data, and detailed explanations, the essay seeks to expand the reader’s knowledge on a given subject. This is particularly valuable in academic settings, where understanding diverse topics is essential to a well-rounded education.

Provide Clarity and Insight

Informative essays often tackle complex subjects that may be difficult to understand at first glance. Through clear writing and structured explanation, these essays break down intricate concepts into digestible parts, offering insight and clarity. They help the reader grasp the nuances of topics ranging from scientific theories to historical events and beyond.

Enhance Critical Thinking

By presenting information from various angles and including detailed analyses, informative essays encourage readers to engage in critical thinking. Readers are prompted to consider the hows and whys of the subject matter, analyze the information presented, and connect it to broader contexts or their personal knowledge.

Stimulate Interest

Although the primary aim is to inform, a well-crafted informative essay can also spark interest in the topic. By uncovering intriguing facts or presenting the subject in a compelling manner, the essay can motivate readers to explore the topic further on their own, fostering a culture of learning and curiosity.

Support Academic and Professional Success

In academic settings, informative essays are a tool for students to demonstrate their understanding of a topic, their ability to conduct thorough research, and their proficiency in communicating complex ideas. Professionally, these essays contribute to knowledge sharing within industries, helping individuals stay informed about current trends, innovations, and foundational concepts.

Build Foundation for Further Exploration

Informative essays lay the groundwork for deeper research and exploration. By providing a comprehensive overview of a topic, they equip readers with the basic knowledge necessary to delve into more specialized studies or related subjects, serving as a stepping stone for academic and personal growth.

10+Informative Essay Samples

15+ informative essay examples.

Free Download

Informative Essay Outline

School Informative Essay

Informative Essay Example

Expository Informative Example

Student Informative Sample

Short Informative Essay

What Is an Informative Essay?

Informative essay is a written as literary essay piece with the purpose of educating a target audience or readers regarding a certain topic or subject.

It is intended to present or expose something while at the same time avoiding to present arguments or personal opinion from the writer. An informative essay is also sometimes called an expository essay in the sense that it also aims to expose or display an information which will be beneficial for the reader.

It does not present bias judgments nor favorable ideas. It does not also dwell in the concept of convincing readers to do things that are contrary to their will.

How to Write an Informative Essay

Writing an informative essay is like telling a blind person what is the color of the sky or telling a kid what are ice creams made of. You simply just have to present a topic and expand.

• Think of a topic. The first thing that you have to do is think of a topic that you want to right about. It would be good if it is something that you are most passionate about so you can write in great details.
• Create a format. The most effective format is using the essential parts of an essay .
• Present your ideas. After choosing the topic, start writing your ideas. Try to present it in a way that you are educating the readers.

College Informative Essay

Middle School Informative

Narrative Informative Example

Informative Essay Example

Sample Informative Essay

Informative Organizer Essay

Informative Assignment Essay

Uses of Informative Essay

1. educational tools.

• Learning and Teaching : Informative essays are widely used in educational settings to teach students about specific topics. They serve as a means for students to research, organize, and present information, enhancing their learning process. For educators, these essays are a tool to assess students’ understanding and ability to communicate knowledge effectively.

2. Enhancing Understanding

• Complex Concept Clarification : These essays break down complex concepts into more understandable parts, making it easier for readers to grasp difficult subjects. They can demystify scientific principles, historical events, or technological advancements, providing clarity and insight.

3. Communication of Ideas

• Knowledge Sharing : In professional and academic communities, informative essays facilitate the sharing of knowledge and ideas. They allow experts to communicate findings, theories, and analyses, contributing to the collective understanding of a field.

4. Awareness and Information Dissemination

• Public Awareness : Informative essays play a crucial role in raising awareness about important issues, such as health, environmental concerns, and social justice. By presenting facts and information, they help inform public opinion and encourage informed decision-making.

5. Basis for Further Research

• Foundation for Exploration : These essays provide a foundation for further research. By offering a comprehensive overview of a topic, they can inspire readers to explore subjects in greater depth, paving the way for advanced studies and discoveries.

6. Professional Development

• Skill Enhancement : Writing informative essays helps individuals develop valuable skills, including research, critical thinking, organization, and writing. These skills are essential in many professional contexts, enhancing career prospects and professional competence.

7. Decision Making and Problem Solving

• Informed Decisions : In the business world and personal life, informative essays can provide the necessary background to make informed decisions. Understanding all aspects of a situation or topic can lead to better problem-solving strategies and outcomes.

8. Cultural and Social Engagement

• Cultural Insight : Essays about cultural practices, societal trends, and historical backgrounds offer readers insights into different ways of life and perspectives, promoting cultural understanding and empathy.

9. Personal Growth

• Intellectual Stimulation : Reading and writing informative essays can be intellectually stimulating, encouraging curiosity and a love for learning. They can broaden one’s horizons and foster a more informed and thoughtful perspective on the world.

Importance of Informative Essay

• Facilitates Learning and Education : They are essential tools in educational settings, helping students learn and understand various topics across different subjects.
• Promotes Critical Thinking : Writing and reading informative essays encourage critical thinking by requiring analysis and synthesis of information.
• Enhances Research Skills : The process of writing an informative essay improves research skills, teaching individuals how to gather, evaluate, and organize information effectively.
• Improves Writing and Communication Skills : Informative essays help in honing writing skills, including structuring arguments, maintaining clarity, and engaging the audience with informative content.
• Encourages Intellectual Curiosity : They stimulate curiosity about the world, encouraging readers and writers to explore topics deeply and broadly.
• Supports Informed Decision Making : By presenting facts and data, informative essays enable readers to make decisions based on knowledge and insights rather than assumptions or misinformation.
• Builds a Foundation for Further Study : They lay the groundwork for more in-depth research and analysis, serving as a stepping stone to more specialized studies.
• Spreads Awareness on Important Issues : Informative essays are a powerful medium for raising awareness about social, environmental, and health-related issues, contributing to public education and action.
• Promotes Cultural Understanding and Empathy : Essays on cultural and societal topics promote understanding and empathy towards different communities and ways of life.
• Contributes to Professional Development : The skills gained from researching and writing informative essays are valuable in professional settings, enhancing abilities in documentation, presentation, and critical analysis.
• Serves as a Source of Inspiration : Reading informative essays can inspire new ideas, hobbies, or even career paths by introducing readers to previously unknown subjects or deeper aspects of familiar topics.
• Facilitates Clear and Effective Information Dissemination : In both academic and professional contexts, the ability to clearly and effectively disseminate information is critical, and informative essays are an excellent medium for this purpose.

How Do You Start an Informative Essay Sentence?

Start an informative essay sentence with a hook such as a surprising fact, a question, or a quote to grab the reader’s attention and draw them into the topic.

How Do You Structure an Informative Essay?

Structure an informative essay with an introduction that includes a hook and thesis statement, body paragraphs that explore the topic in detail, and a conclusion that summarizes the main points.

What Should Each Body Paragraph Begin With?

Each body paragraph should begin with a topic sentence that introduces the main idea of the paragraph, directly supporting the thesis statement.

What Are the Informative Writing Techniques?

Informative writing techniques include using clear and concise language, organizing information logically, employing facts and data for support, and incorporating visuals like charts or graphs to enhance understanding.

How Do You Start an Informative Letter?

Start an informative letter with a polite greeting, followed by a clear introduction of the purpose of the letter. Provide the necessary information in a concise and organized manner.

What Are the Parts of an Informative Essay?

The parts of an informative essay include the introduction with a hook and thesis statement, body paragraphs with topic sentences and supporting details, and a conclusion that summarizes the essay’s main points.

The basic parts or elements of an essay are the introduction, the body, and the conclusion. These are all important parts which of course constitutes the wholeness of your essay.

So each part has to be given with special importance. The conclusion of essay , which is the last part, should be your chance to make your readers understand the whole point of your topic.

This is the chance for you to clarify some important things that you want to highlight. It is advisable that you write at least three to five sentences for your conclusion in order for it not to become too explanatory which you have already done on the previous part.

Informative Essay Generator

Text prompt

• Instructive
• Professional

Crafting the Perfect Thesis for Your Informative Essay

How to Research Effectively for an Informative Essay

Structuring Your Informative Essay: A Step-by-Step Guide

Selecting the Best Topic for Your Informative Essay

The Importance of Editing Your Informative Essay

Incorporating Visuals into Your Informative Essay

Tips for Writing an Engaging Informative Essay Introduction

Developing Strong Arguments in Your Informative Essay

Informative Essay Conclusion: Leaving a Lasting Impression

Avoiding Plagiarism in Your Informative Essay

• How to Write an Informative Essay?
• How to Write an Informative Essay: Outline, Topics, and Examples

What is an Informative Essay?

• How to Write an Informative Essay: General Tips

Informative Essay Outline Example: 3 Main Elements

How to write an informative essay introduction, informative thesis statement, what to include in the main body paragraphs, concluding an essay, works cited page, 40 stunning informative essay topics, middle school, high school, easy topics, informative essay examples, final thoughts.

Informative essay writing is not as simple as it might seem. You should inform the readers about the peculiarities of the topic. However, it should be done in a bias and opinion free manner . To master the art of informative essay writing, read the article. In it you will find writing tips, see a well-structured outline, and get a list of great informative essay topics. You will also receive several great essay examples. So, read on or request assistance from our  essay writers that we are truly proud of! 

An informative essay is an academic writing assignment the purpose of which is to educate or inform a reader on a chosen topic . Most students tend to believe it is the simplest essay type. By contrast, teachers emphasize it might be the most challenging task.

It is not enough just to describe a specific topic in this assignment. A student should become an expert in the chosen field in the process of essay writing. Research the topic, find detailed and useful information, and provide relevant examples to make the audience aware of the given issue . In contrast to an informative essay, a synthesis essay , for example, requires analysis of given data to develop a single writing piece.

The essay should be informative and encouraging at the same time. However, do not try to take a stand on the topic or persuade readers. It is neither persuasive nor argumentative paper. To objectively present information might be the most challenging part for students. However, we will share with you all the details of informative essay writing. Step by step, you will manage to create an outstanding paper .

How to Write an Informative Essay: General Tips 

If you want to learn how to write an informative essay, follow these simple steps. It is crucial to discuss the whole process step-by-step to make it clear.

• Brainstorm to come up with the list of great topics .  First of all, think of your own interests. What informative essay topics would you like to discuss? That is one of the main criteria for writing an outstanding informative essay. Conduct research to find the most relevant, credible, and up-to-date materials on each topic before making a final decision. Also, consider the audience. Which of the potential informative essay topics would be the most interesting for the reader? For example, eating disorders are a relevant topic today (it could be a perfect informative essay title).
• Create a sound, tentative thesis statement before writing. A thesis statement is the main idea of an essay. It should be strong and original. Think about the information you want to share with the reader, reasons why the specific problem is important, and how to convey to the audience the significance of the issue. For instance, The progressing eating disorders caused 13% of the deaths in the United States last year. If a student writes something like that, they should specify a source of the statistics.
• Write down a short outline . An informative essay outline should contain all the key ideas you want to write in the main body. It will help you out in the process of essay writing by saving your time. You will follow the plan and will not have to distract to think of what to write next.
• Write a rough draft . In the initial draft, list the questions related to the chosen topic along with the facts you know based on personal knowledge and experience. Provide specific examples from real life to prove that you are well versed in or have faced the issue. You may specify how many eating disorders and their consequences you observed. Compare the number of females and males suffering from this problem. You may also recall the number of young and older adults who experience various eating disorders to provide a larger context for your informative essay.
• Research the selected topic online and in the library . It is important to choose credible, relevant, and up-to-date sources meaning they should not be older than 5 years (start from textbooks and end up with journals and scholarly articles). Interviewing people is another great way to collect information if you are writing about eating disorders.
• Write your essay . After you have collected all the necessary details and created an essay outline , go ahead with writing an informative essay. Ensure you do not miss any essay part and properly cite all the borrowed ideas to avoid plagiarism.
• Review the final draft before submitting it . It is an essential part when writing. Proofread the paper to correct any mistakes and make your paper flawless. You can do it by yourself, try different free services and paid writing apps , or hire professional editors to ensure the text corresponds to the highest quality standards.

An informative essay outline is an action plan, similar to the table of contents, which helps a writer not to get lost while working on the essay . Writing an outline is not obligatory. However, writing experts recommend creating it to avoid facing writer’s block in the middle of the process.

An outline for informative essays has a common five paragraph essay outline structure. The first paragraph is an introduction, which is followed by main body paragraphs, and ends with a conclusion part. Have a look at the informative essay example below.

The samples of an outline will help to understand how to write an informative essay. The paper topic is The influence of smoking on health .

Introduction

• Define the topic. What is smoking?
• Provide short background information on smoking. For example, the way people obtain this bad habit, reasons for becoming addicted, and what happens if the person decides to quit smoking.
• Create a thesis statement. It could be a correlation between smoking and the increased risk of various dangerous lung diseases. Identify the scope of the informative essay.
• Develop each of the ideas presented below in a separate paragraph.
• Smoking and different dangerous lung diseases.
• Describe the way smoking can impact human organism in other harmful ways. For example: heart attack, decreased brain activity, etc.
• The ways to quit smoking/release form this harmful addiction.
• Restate the thesis. Recall the correlation between different types of lung and heart diseases and a bad habit such as smoking.
• Reiterate the significance of the research on the outcomes of smoking.
• Sum up the key points from each body paragraph.
• Offer some forecasts for the future. For example,example: If the American nation does not quit smoking in the closest future, it might result in… .

The first part of an essay in an introduction. And the first sentence is usually a catchy hook . Good hooks for essays make the reader interested in a topic. After a hook, present your topic and provide some general info about it (do not get into details). Finish your informative essay introduction with a strong thesis .

“Among all hooks, try to focus on using jokes, statistics, facts, famous quotes, anecdotes, similes, and metaphors. Example: “Eating disorders are among the leading killers of young girls.” Introduce the topic with its background in a couple of sentences. End up with a powerful thesis statement, which points to the necessity of topic research. Do everything possible to lure the audience's interest in the initial paragraph.” Catherine Doyle, The University of Michigan professor and editor at Pro-Essay-Writer

Thesis is a sentence at the end of the introduction that presents the main idea of your paper . It should be clear, succinct, and paper-specific . Often, it should express the writer’s opinion. However, an informative essay thesis statement should not express your view point, like you would do in an opinion essay . It should be bias-free. Thus, creating a thesis is another challenging stage of writing an informative essay. Ensure it is devoid of your personal opinion. Also, keep in mind that a strong thesis statement should not be:

• Common knowledge

Use the main body part to inform the target audience about the peculiarities of the topic. Include one main idea into each body paragraph . Share some interesting facts, go into the possibly unknown details, or present a common knowledge in a new light to make readers intrigued. The three integral elements of each body paragraph are the claim, supporting evidence, and explanation . Make sure all the paragraphs are balanced, meaning:

• Each topic has a topic sentence and supporting ideas
• All the body paragraphs resonate with thesis
• There is only one main idea per each paragraphs
• Transitional words are used for smooth transition between ideas.

Finish your paper by providing a brief summary of the information given in the body of your informative essay. Bring a sense of closure to the paper while maintaining the interest of the audience in the offered topic or research problem. An informative essay conclusion should include:

• Restated thesis
• Summary of the main ideas
• General conclusion

Name every source you have used to write your informative essay. All the ideas you have borrowed, especially statistics, should be cited both in text and in the reference list. If you fail to do it, you might be accused of plagiarism. The consequences might be different. You may receive an F or even get expelled from college. Do not forget that all the sources from the works cited list should be used in text and vice versa. Provide each entry on the References page according to the required academic format (MLA, APA, Harvard, ASA paper format etc.). Check the formatting style requirements in the essay guidelines.

If you run out of ideas, we have you covered! Look through the list of good informative essay topics and select the one that fits you the most.

• Childhood obesity: Causes and outcomes
• The ways homeless people survive
• Why does TV censorship exist?
• Tell about your favorite book
• The cost of education
• The use of smartphones in education
• Useless school laws
• The way gravity works
• The life cycle of any insect of choice
• Things that make bloggers popular.
• Reveal the nature of domestic violence
• The basic trends of alternative medicine
• The history and development of social networks
• Prostitution: Definition, background, and pros & cons
• The process of winning a lottery
• The problem of illegal immigration
• Racism in modern American society
• Is the Internet the most revolutionary invention ever?
• Is it possible that marijuana can be helpful for human health?
• What causes violence on college campuses?
• The most devastating natural disasters
• The consequences of consuming fast food
• Current ecological issues  
• Plastic surgery: its role in the modern world
• Effective, time-tested methods to overcome stressful situations
• Measures people can take to defend nature
• What is slow food ?
• How smoking harms mental activity?
• What does a healthy lifestyle mean?
• The history of alcoholic beverage industry
• The essence of cybersecurity
• Advantages of MacBooks
• A presentation on artificial intelligence
• Doing a diploma coursework in French
• The effect of global lockdown on education
• Typical horror film scenarios
• The percentage of female leaders compared to males
• What measures should the school board take to prevent bullying?
• Is it obligatory to wear a hijab on campus?
• How can we differentiate a fever from a typical cold/flu?

Where can a student get free informative essay examples? Having a good example in front of you is the best warranty of successful work. We offer you several essay samples to get a better understanding of how to write an interesting essay.

An informative essay is a common academic assignment. Thus, you should be well versed with all its peculiarities. The main requirements are keeping it interesting, avoiding expressing your opinion, and having all the structural body parts. For sure, the informative essay topics should also be engaging enough. We hope our guide and examples have clarified the nuances of this essay type. If not, you can ask for help from professional writers. They can give you good advice on how to write an informative essay and offer assistance with other paper types, like observation essay .

This enlightening text containing tips from the best essay writers on the market will provide you with advantageous information on how to write a descriptive essay like William Faulkner. Descriptive type of paper supposes creating a lucid picture of a specific subject, place, person, or anything els...

An effective rhetorical text should pull strings. When composing a rhetorical analysis essay, an essay writer should recognize these strings and explore what makes the text convincing. While most students care about the reader's involvement, none of that works if textual analysis lacks critical aspe...

Most students get excited when given a chance to choose a compare and contrast essay topic they are most passionate about. However, the first time you face this task, you can't help but feel a bit puzzled. Believe you are not alone since coming up with a brilliant topic idea may take some time. Besi...

Informative Essay Outline for Beginners

• Word Document File

Description

Questions & answers, ela middle school wizard.

• We're hiring
• Help & FAQ
• Privacy policy
• Student privacy
• Terms of service
• Tell us what you think

Home — Essay Samples — Geography & Travel — Travel and Tourism Industry — The History of Moscow City

The History of Moscow City

• Categories: Russia Travel and Tourism Industry

About this sample

Words: 614 |

Published: Feb 12, 2019

Words: 614 | Page: 1 | 4 min read

Cite this Essay

Let us write you an essay from scratch

• 450+ experts on 30 subjects ready to help
• Custom essay delivered in as few as 3 hours

Get high-quality help

Dr. Heisenberg

Verified writer

• Expert in: Geography & Travel

+ 120 experts online

By clicking “Check Writers’ Offers”, you agree to our terms of service and privacy policy . We’ll occasionally send you promo and account related email

No need to pay just yet!

Related Essays

13 pages / 6011 words

1 pages / 657 words

4 pages / 2143 words

6 pages / 3010 words

Remember! This is just a sample.

You can get your custom paper by one of our expert writers.

121 writers online

Still can’t find what you need?

Browse our vast selection of original essay samples, each expertly formatted and styled

Related Essays on Travel and Tourism Industry

The ethics in the hospitality industry play a pivotal role in shaping the reputation and success of businesses within this sector. Ethics encompass the principles and values that guide behavior, decision-making, and interactions [...]

Traveling is an enriching experience that allows individuals to explore new cultures, meet people from different backgrounds, and broaden their perspectives. In the summer of 2019, I had the opportunity to embark on an amazing [...]

Travelling is a topic that has been debated for centuries, with some arguing that it is a waste of time and money, while others believe that it is an essential part of life. In this essay, I will argue that travelling is not [...]

Traveling has always been a significant part of my life. From a young age, I have been fortunate enough to explore different cultures, experience new traditions, and immerse myself in the beauty of our world. My passion for [...]

When planning a business trip all aspects and decisions rely heavily on the budget set by the company for the trip. Once Sandfords have confirmed the location careful consideration should be used to choose the travel method and [...]

Tourism is an action of worldwide imperativeness and importance as it is a major force in the economy (Cooper et al. 2008). Tourism has undeniably developed as one of the most significant economic and social phenomena of the [...]

Related Topics

By clicking “Send”, you agree to our Terms of service and Privacy statement . We will occasionally send you account related emails.

Where do you want us to send this sample?

By clicking “Continue”, you agree to our terms of service and privacy policy.

Be careful. This essay is not unique

This essay was donated by a student and is likely to have been used and submitted before

Download this Sample

Free samples may contain mistakes and not unique parts

Sorry, we could not paraphrase this essay. Our professional writers can rewrite it and get you a unique paper.

Please check your inbox.

We can write you a custom essay that will follow your exact instructions and meet the deadlines. Let's fix your grades together!

Get Your Personalized Essay in 3 Hours or Less!

We use cookies to personalyze your web-site experience. By continuing we’ll assume you board with our cookie policy .

• Instructions Followed To The Letter
• Deadlines Met At Every Stage
• Unique And Plagiarism Free

9 Things to See in Moscow's Red Square

 Sir Francis Canker/Getty Images

In most cases, you'll be entering Red Square from the north, passing landmarks such as the Bolshoi Theatre and Duma parliament building as you make your way southward. Although you don't necessarily have to pass through the Voskresensky (or Resurrection in English) Gates in order to gain access to the square these days, they definitely provide a sense of arrival, to say nothing of the way their left arch frame's St. Basil's Cathedral if you look from just the right angle.

An interesting fact is that while a gate of some kind has stood here since the mid-16th century, the one you currently see wasn't built until 1994, having been destroyed in 1931 so that tanks could enter and exit Red Square during military parades.

St. Basil's Cathedral

TripSavvy / Christopher Larson 

Few sights are as iconic not only of Moscow and Red Square but indeed of Russia than St. Basil's Cathedral, whose colorful, onion-shaped domes are a symbol of the country around the world. Officially known as the Cathedral of Vasily the Blessed, this church has stood since 1561, which is quite miraculous when you consider all the turbulent history that has transpired since then.

Among other things, religion was severely prohibited during the Soviet period , which led some to believe that this emblem of the Russian Orthodox church might not withstand the tenure of the USSR. 

An interesting fact is that St. Basil's is the so-called "Kilometer Zero" of Russia; all of Moscow's main roads (which can take you anywhere in Russia) begin at the exits to Red Square. In this way, St. Basil's iconic status also has an extremely tangible element.

The Kremlin

TripSavvy / Christopher Larson

When you think of The Kremlin, it's unlikely that positive images enter your mind. The fact that simply saying the word "Kremlin" is too vague a descriptor (most Russian cities have their own Kremlin complexes; you should say "Moscow Kremlin") notwithstanding, this misunderstood place is incredibly beautiful, even if you don't like the policy that comes out of it.

Senate Square

In spite of its name, which refers to the role the building that rises above the square played during Imperial Russia, Senate Square is actually home to Russia's presidential administration, currently helmed by Vladimir Putin. In order to see where Russia's legislature operates from, walk just outside Red Square to the Duma parliament building.

Dormition Cathedral

Dating back to the year 1479, the gold-domed Dormition Cathedral pays homage to an Orthodox religious feast that commemorates the death of the Virgin Mary . As is the case with St. Basil's, it is curious that such a conspicuously religious structure was able to survive through the Soviet period.

Armoury Chamber

Though it takes its name from the fact that it housed Russia's royal arsenal when it was built in the 16th century, the most notable resident of the Kremlin's Armoury Chamber today is the Russian Diamond Fund.

Notable Kremlin Towers

Robert Schrader

The interior of the Moscow Kremlin is more beautiful and inviting than you'd expect, but the walls and towers that rise around it better live up to the intimidation with which the complex is associated. 

Borovitskaya Tower

Named to commemorate the dense forest that once stood atop the mount where it's built, this tower is extremely picturesque. Built in the late 15th century, it's visible from most places in the square, and also as you walk along the Moskva River.

Nikolskaya Tower

Also built in the year 1491, this tower currently suffered destruction at the hands of Napoleon's army in the 19th century. What you see now is the result of an 1816 re-design and renovation, though artillery fire during the Russian Revolution also caused superficial damage to the tower, named to honor St. Nikolas of Mozhaysk , so it's difficult to know which elements of it are original.

Spasskaya Tower

Known in English as the "Savior's Tower," this iconic, star-topped tower is perhaps the best-known of all the Kremlin's towers. Built in 1491 like the other two towers on this list, it's certainly the most photographed. As a result of its proximity to St. Basil's, it often makes its way into tourists' pictures.

Mausoleum of Lenin

Just as it's strange to learn how many religious monuments survived through the Soviet period, it's a bit odd to think that Lenin's preserved body still sits in a mausoleum just beneath the walls of the Kremlin on Red Square, given the lack of consensus about the ultimate impact of his Revolution, even in Russia.

It's not guaranteed that you'll be able to see the body (which, believe it or not, seems to be improving with age ) when you go, and if you do you will likely have to wait in line, but even strolling past the outside of the Lenin Mausoleum, flanked by stone-faced guards that almost look like statues, illuminates the gravity of his body still being here.

GUM Shopping Center

You might cringe, at least initially, when you realize that one of the most iconic stops on a tour of Red Square is a department store—until you see said department store, that is. Built in 1893 and known during Soviet times as the State Department Store, GUM  ( Glávnyj Universáľnyj Magazín​ or Main Universal Store in English) hearkens back to the grandeur of the late 19th century, both seen from the outside (especially, when lit up at night) and the interior, which might have you feeling like you're further west in Europe.

A trip inside GUM is a particularly good idea during winter, when frigid temperatures outside will have you savoring the heat, the quality of souvenirs, confections and other goods sold inside notwithstanding. Also, make sure not to confuse GUM with CDM, which sits near the Bolshoi Theatre, even though both are stunning and iconic in their own right.

State Historical Museum

The Russian State Historical Museum is located near Voskresensky Gates, though you should wait until after you've seen the first few attractions of Red Square and the Kremlin to head back there and go inside. To be sure, as you pass by its facade (whose late-19th century grandeur somewhat obscures that fact that it's currently a museum accessible to the public) you might not even think to try and gain entry.

Once inside the museum, you can plan to spend at least a couple of hours, given that artifacts here date back to the very beginning of the Russian state in the ninth century. As is the case with GUM, this will be a particularly alluring prospect if you visit in winter, when Moscow is arguably at its most beautiful, but certainly at its least tolerable. 

Minin-Pozharsky Monument

It's somewhat easy to disregard this monument, which pays homage to the two Russian princes who ended the so-called "Time of Troubles" in the mid-16th century, during which Polish-Lithuanian forces occupied Russia, among other awful things including a famine. That's because the statue currently sits just at the base of St. Basil's Cathedral, which makes it very difficult to photograph or even see without being overwhelmed by that much more famous edifice.

Though the statue originally sat at the very center of Red Square, it came to be an obstacle to the movement of tanks during the Soviet period, much like the Voskresensky Gates. As a result, authorities moved it during that time, and it's stayed where you currently find it ever since.

Kazan Cathedral

Taken by itself, the smokey-pink Kazan Cathedral is an architectural marvel; originally built in the 17th century, the church you find here today, located just north of the GUM department store, dates back only to 1993.

Unfortunately, since it sits not only in the shadow of GUM, but also in the shadow St. Basil's and the Towers of the Kremlin, it's easy to miss entirely if you aren't looking. As a result, you might wait until you've seen just about everything else in Red Square before coming here to take photos, and to appreciate the understated beauty of this oft-overlooked cathedral.

Moskva River

As you head south from St. Basil's Cathedral to exit Red Square, make sure to walk onto Bolshoy Moskvoretskiy Bridge, which crosses the Moskva River. If you look due north, you can get an excellent shot of the church framed, on the left, by the towers of the Kremlin. Directing your gaze a bit to the west allows you to see the skyscrapers of Moscow City as they rise above the Kremlin's walls.

Walking westward along the riverbank is also a worthwhile excursion, for the views it provides of Red Square and the Kremlin, as well as the fact that doing so takes you to other iconic Moscow attractions, including Gorky Park and the Pushkin Museum. The views you enjoy from the river and the bridge are particularly stunning at night, though you should make sure you bring a tripod if you want to get a clear picture, given how strong winds over and near the river can be.

Moscow - Russian Rivers and Waterways Port of Call

Moscow Metro: The Complete Guide

25 Best Things to Do in Moscow

The Impressive Castles of Eastern Europe

St. Basil’s Cathedral in Moscow: Planning Your Visit

St. Petersburg, Russia

10 Must-Visit Palaces and Castles in Russia

Top 12 Things to Do in Kazan, Russia

The Top 12 Things to Do in Nizhny Novgorod, Russia

The Top 12 Things to Do in Novgorod, Russia

Soviet Sights in Moscow – Moscow USSR Sites

The Top 12 Things to Do in Astrakhan

The Top 15 Places to Visit in Russia

A Guide to Moscow: Capital of Russia, City of Domes

The Top 15 Things to Do in Bordeaux, France

A Guide to the 4th Arrondissement in Paris