Rhetorical modes (also known as modes of discourse) describe the variety, conventions, and purposes of the major kinds of writing. Four of the most common rhetorical modes and their purpose are exposition, argumentation, description, and narration.

    The purpose of exposition (or expository writing) is to explain and analyze information by presenting an idea, relevant evidence, and appropriate discussion. Examples include:

    Business letters

    How-to essays, such as recipes and other instructions

    News stories

    Personal letters

    Press releases

    Reports

    Scientific reports

    Term papers

    Textbooks

    Wills

    Encyclopedia articles

    The purpose of argumentation (also called persuasive writing) is to prove the validity of an idea, or point of view, by presenting sound reasoning, discussion, and argument that thoroughly convince the reader. Persuasive writing is a type of argumentation with the additional aim to urge the reader to take some form of action. Examples include:

    Advertising Copy

    Critical review

    Editorials

    Job evaluation

    Job application letter

    Letter of recommendation

    Letters to the editor

    Résumés

    The purpose of description is to re-create, invent, or visually present a person, place, event, or action so that the reader can picture that which is being described. Descriptive writing can be found in the other rhetorical modes. Examples include:

    Journal writing

    Poetry

    The purpose of narration is to tell a story or narrate an event or series of events. This writing mode frequently uses the tools of descriptive writing. Narration is an especially useful tool for sequencing or putting details and information into some kind of logical order, usually chronological. Working with narration helps us see clear sequences separate from all other mental functions. Examples include:

    Anecdotes

    Autobiography

    Biography

    Novels

    Oral history

    Short story