Author's purpose

English

Definition

The main reason an author writes a text, which generally falls into categories like to persuade, inform, entertain, or express feelings. Identifying the author's purpose helps readers better understand the choices the author makes in structure, tone, and language.

Examples

  • A news article is written to inform readers about current events
  • An editorial arguing for recycling is written to persuade
  • A novel like Harry Potter is primarily written to entertain

Related Terms

Rhetorical strategies Tone analysis Persuasive techniques Text structure

Study This Concept

Practice author's purpose with free review games in these units:

AP English Language Unit 4: Reading Comprehension English 9 Unit 3: Informational Text