Writing to explain, instruct and advise

Not every writing task is an argument. The specification also asks you to write to explain, instruct and respond to information, for example a section of a guide or a leaflet that uses facts you are given. Each purpose has its own tools.

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Purposes and tools

PurposeKey featuresExample
ExplainCauses and effects, clear logical links'This happens because... As a result...'
InstructImperatives, steps in order, numbered or signposted'First, switch off the power. Next, remove the cover.'
AdviseModal verbs, second person, reassuring tone'You could try... You should avoid...'
Respond to informationUse given facts in your own form and wordsTurning bullet points into a paragraph for a guide

Using information you are given

Some tasks give you notes or bullet points. Use them, but do not copy them as a list.
Select the most useful points for your audience.
Organise them into a logical order with sub-headings if the form allows.
Develop each one: say why it matters to the reader.
Keep a consistent point of view: if you write as a Year 11 student, stay that person to the end.

Explaining clearly

Use causal connectives: because, therefore, as a result, this means that, consequently.
Define any technical word the first time you use it.
Move from simple to complex.
A quick example makes an explanation stick: 'For example, a 10-minute walk...'
Worked example

Turn these notes into one paragraph for a guide for new Year 7 students: 'canteen opens 12.20; queue gets long; card top-up at machine by door'.

  1. Audience: nervous 11-year-olds, so friendly and clear.
  2. Order: when it opens, the problem, the solution.
  3. Add a reason and advice using 'you'.

Answer: Lunch: the canteen opens at 12.20, and the queue grows quickly, so it is worth heading there as soon as the bell goes. Before you join the queue, top up your card at the machine by the door. That way, you will not reach the front only to find you cannot pay.

Key idea

Explain with causes and effects; instruct with imperatives in order; advise with modal verbs and 'you'. When given information, select, organise and develop it in your own words, and keep one consistent viewpoint.

Key words
Purpose
What a text sets out to do, such as to argue, persuade, inform, advise, describe or entertain.
Viewpoint
The opinion a writer holds and wants the reader to share.
Audience
The people a text is written for. You adapt your register and content to suit them.
Form
The type of text, such as an article, letter, speech, review, guide, leaflet or story, each with its own conventions.

All GCSE and International GCSE English Language key terms and definitions →

Quick check

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Extra practice

2 more questions

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  1. Which sentence is typical of instructions?

    1. Have you ever pressed a button?
    2. The button was green.
    3. Buttons are useful.
    4. Press the green button to start.
    Show the answer

    Answer: Press the green button to start.

    Instructions use imperatives.

  2. Which sentence gives an order rather than advice?

    1. You might want to lock the door.
    2. Lock the door.
    3. It could help to lock the door.
    4. Perhaps lock the door.
    Show the answer

    Answer: Lock the door.

    A bare imperative is an order.

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Practise this lesson free (6 questions)All GCSE and International GCSE English Language lessons

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Sources and references

Checked by the GCSE-ready editorial team, 17 October 2026. Last updated 2 October 2026. Spotted a mistake? Tell us and we will fix it.

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