The Purpose of Non-Fiction Texts

When writers craft non-fiction texts, they always have a specific goal in mind – to leave an impact on their readers. To delve into the purpose of non-fiction texts, remember 'TAP':

Text Type

Audience

Purpose

Here's a breakdown of various purposes non-fiction texts can serve:

To Entertain: These texts aim to amuse or bring enjoyment to the reader.

Example: A humorous anecdote shared in a magazine article about travel mishaps.

To Persuade: Persuasive texts seek to influence the reader's viewpoint, although they may lean towards bias.

Example: An opinion piece advocating for stricter environmental regulations in a newspaper.

To Advise: Advisory texts help readers make decisions by offering ideas and options.

Example: A self-help book providing strategies for stress management.

To Analyse: Analytical texts break down complex subjects to aid better understanding.

Example: A scientific paper dissecting the effects of climate change on marine ecosystems.

To Argue: Argumentative texts present a case for or against a particular topic, often with a one-sided perspective.

Example: A blog post arguing for the benefits of adopting a vegan lifestyle.

To Describe: Descriptive texts provide precise details about people, places, objects, or experiences.

Example: A travel brochure vividly describing the sights and sounds of a tropical paradise.

To Explain: Explanatory texts clarify 'how' and 'why' something works or occurs in a certain manner.

Example: A website such as Revision World explaining the purpose of non fiction texts.

To Inform: Informative texts impart new knowledge or details to the reader.

Example: A news article reporting on the latest developments in renewable energy technology.

To Instruct: Instructional texts provide step-by-step guidance on how to perform a task.

Example: A recipe detailing the steps to bake a chocolate cake.

Non-fiction texts can encompass multiple purposes. For instance, a writer might aim to both entertain and inform or to inform and persuade the reader.

Certain types of non-fiction texts have specific purposes. For example, travel writing often aims to persuade readers to visit certain destinations. This purpose can be:

Explicit: Clearly stated directly within the text.

Example: "You simply must experience the breath taking views of the Grand Canyon!"

Implicit: Implied or suggested without being explicitly stated.

Example: "The tranquillity of the secluded beaches makes for an unforgettable getaway."

When analysing a non-fiction text, you can discern its purpose by examining:

Content: Who would find the information valuable?

Tone: Is the tone serious or light-hearted?

Structure: How are the events ordered? Are there headings, subheadings, or questions posed to the reader?

Language: Is the language formal or informal?

By considering these elements, readers can better understand the intentions behind non-fiction texts and evaluate their effectiveness in achieving their goals.