9 Types of Writing Structure for Improving as a Writer

Do you write content without understanding writing structures? 

It’s common among many writers to start without knowing about writing styles, structures, and tones. 

I’ll discuss writing styles and tones later! While this piece will focus on the most common and helpful types of writing structures.

When I began writing, I would simply open a document and start typing; no plan, no structure! 

Eventually, I discovered structures of writing that significantly improved my writing. 

In fact, about 70% of readers prefer well-structured content for better engagement.

So, what are writing structures? 

They are organized plans that help you arrange your ideas clearly. 

When you know the right structure to use, you’ll definitely make your writing more engaging and easier to follow.

Well! By the end of this article, you’ll learn about basic writing structures that will enhance your overall writing skills.

How does writing structure improve your writing?

Writing structure is essential for improving your writing. It organizes your thoughts clearly. 

Your ideas flow smoothly from one point to the next. 

Readers can easily follow and understand your main ideas. 

For example, if you're writing a blog post titled “The steps to create a synopsis.” 

Do you organize the steps? If not, it will lead to confusion. When you're unclear, your readers will likely be as well. 

Now imagine writing a 1,500 word article without headings or sequence, just plain text. Do you think it would be effective? Probably not. 

It is always better to present your information in an engaging manner. Ideally go with a clear structure because it will help you enhance the meaning of your message.

As you are doing this, do not leave the spelling or grammar mistakes. 

Instead your goal should be to find such mistakes and fix them in the first place. This way your information will be more clearer and meaningful.

Our grammar checker is specifically built to assist you in such cases. It finds such problems or mistakes and helps you fix them instantly.

A good structure keeps your writing focused and prevents it from going off-topic. Moreover it also ensures that every paragraph supports your overall message.

9 writing structures every writer should know 

While exploring writing structures, I found many options. Here, I've chosen the most commonly used and effective ones. 

If you're looking to improve your writing, it's essential to learn these structures. However, below are nine writing structures that can help you become a better writer:

1. Spatial writing structure

Have you heard this term before? Probably not!

Spatial writing structure is basically organizing your information on the basis of physical location and arrangement in place. 

This writing structure is often used in descriptive writing. It helps readers visualize a scene that is moving from one detail to another based on presence. 

Now, let’s see how you can write a story using spatial writing structure. For example, the topic is, “A festival scene.” 

You might start writing from the entrance, where colorful banners and flags greet visitors. 

Then you move to the left where food stalls are lined up with various international dishes. 

Next, you’d describe the center of the festival grounds, where musicians play on a lively stage. 

Finally, move to the right where artists display handmade crafts. 

This way you can easily write your story following this structure of writing. 

2. Narrative writing structure

What do you understand from narrative writing? A complete story? 

Yes! Using this structure, you can tell a story with a clear sequence of events. 

It typically includes a beginning, middle, and end. This guides the reader through a plot with characters, a setting, conflict, and decision. 

When you choose this structure, make sure you’re telling a story, writing essays, and novels. However, narrative writing structures mostly use third-person perspective to narrate a story.

And if I talk about key elements, they are like descriptive details, dialogue, and emotional shifts bring the narrative to life. 

Let me explain this narrative writing structure with an example of a famous novel. You'd better understand it with this. 

Novel: Pride and Prejudice by Jane Austen

Start: Mr. Bingley, who is a wealthy bachelor. He moves to town to excite the Bennet family. At a ball, Jane attracts Bingley, while Elizabeth clashes with the rude Mr. Darcy.

Middle: As Jane and Bingley grow closer, misunderstandings arise due to Darcy's ego. Elizabeth learns from Mr. Wickham about Darcy’s past, deepening her dislike. After visiting Darcy's home, Elizabeth sees a different side of him and receives a letter that changes her view.

End: Darcy proposes to Elizabeth again. She realizes and accepts that she loves him. The story ends with their marriage and Jane's union with Bingley. This shows that love can overcome misunderstandings.

Here you can see a start, middle, and an end. This shows the narrative writing structure.

3. Comparison and contrast writing structure

We see and read numerous content that shows comparisons between some subjects. 

Do you know any?

Ok! If not then now you can differentiate which writing structure it is after reading it.

Comparison and contrast writing structure highlight similarities and differences of two or more subjects. 

This helps readers understand the connections between these subjects and also help make decisions.

I’ve found two main ways to write using this structure: 

• In the point-by-point method, you discuss each point of comparison or contrast one at a time. 
• In the block method, you talk about all the points for one subject first and then do the same for the second subject.

Here you’ve understood what is compare and contrast writing structure. 

Now! Let's explore how you can write using this writing structure. So, you should follow this format:

1. Introduction: Introduce the two subjects.
2. Body paragraph: Choose one method from a point-by-point method or a block method. And explain your message according to it.
3. Conclusion: Summarize main points.

Well! Let’s assume you’re writing about two books using comparison and contrast writing structure. 

What will you do?

Surely, you’ll start by discussing one book in detail. Then, move on to the other book, highlighting its key points. 

After that, you can compare both books by discussing their similarities and differences. 

Finally, summarize your thoughts to conclude which book you find more interesting or appealing. 

You can follow any method discussed above to structure your comparison and contrast writing effectively.

4. Logical writing structure

Imagine you’re reading an article, no clarity and no logic! Or even it doesn’t follow any structure of writing. Will it captivate you? 

In my opinion, it will not! 

So, if you use Logical structures, it will help you to organize information clearly and effectively. 

The key elements of logical writing include:

• Clear language
• Strong arguments
• Solid evidence

When these elements work together, they create convincing arguments that are easy for readers to follow and understand.

Logical writing structure is especially helpful in explanatory essays, reports, and academic writing. Because in these writings, clear arguments and explanations are essential.

Well! Let’s see how you can write using logical writing structure:

1. Introduction: Introduce the main topic. Then state your thesis that explains what you will discuss.
2. Body paragraphs: Initially, present the first main idea. Provide evidence, examples, or data to support it. Afterward, introduce the second idea. And then explain how it connects to the first point. Also provide additional evidence to back it up.
3. Conclusion: Summarize the main points you discussed.

When your logic is more clear and stronger, your writing will be more effective and impactful. 

When I read Mark Manson's article, “The Complete Guide to Goal Setting (Backed by Science).” This guide uses logical writing structure which highlights the need to set meaningful goals that match your personal values. It also encourages creating systems that help you make steady progress and grow.

5. Argumentative writing structure

Have you read any argumentative piece of content before? 

If not, I’ve shared a great example at the end of this heading. So, after reading that your concept about this writing structure will be more clear.

However, argumentative writing structure supports a specific opinion on a topic. It starts with a clear statement of the writer's view. 

After that, the writer gives reasons and evidence to back up that view. 

Finally, the writer talks about other opinions to show why their own argument is stronger. 

This type of writing aims to convince readers to agree with the writer's perspective.

Ok! Now, let’s see how to write text following an argumentative writing structure. Here are the pattern:

1. Introduction: Introduce your topic. Also include a clear thesis statement that shows your main argument.
2. Body paragraphs: Each paragraph should focus on one supporting point. Use facts and evidence to back up your argument. You can also include counter arguments. Also explain why they are not as strong as your argument.
3. Conclusion: Summarize your main points and restate your thesis. Explain why your argument matters. Moreover, suggest what the reader should think or do next.

As I stated in the beginning, here is an example of a book that shows argumentative writing structure. 

In the book “The Second Machine Age,” Erik Brynjolfsson and Andrew McAfee discuss technology. 

They focus on how artificial intelligence is changing the workforce. The authors argue that we need to adapt education and job training. This is essential to meet the changes brought by technology.

6. Classification writing structure

You can understand this structure of writing from the name! Right?

Well! Classification writing structure includes grouping things into categories based on characteristics. 

This structure helps readers understand complex topics by breaking them down into simpler and more manageable parts. 

Now! Let's explore how you can write using classification writing structure. So, if you follow this structure, your writing should contain:

1. Introduction: State the main subject and explain why the classification matters.
2. Body paragraph: Classify all categories. Name and describe them with examples.
3. Conclusion: Recap the main points.

For your better understanding, I’ve cited a popular book that clearly describes classification writing structure. 

If you’re interested in reading and understanding this writing structure. You can read this book by Dr. Gary Chapman's "The Five Love Languages." 

It classifies how people show love in five ways: words of affirmation, acts of service, receiving gifts, quality time, and physical touch.

7. Problem and solution writing structure

For example, you’re writing a blog for students. In which you’re discussing different ways of writing in assignments to avoid all types of plagiarism. 

Here the problem is plagiarism. 

Solution? The ways!

Ways can be numerous. But initially the great way is using our plagiarism checker to find copied content in the assignment. This tool will show the percentage of plagiarized and original text. 

Well! What is the problem and solution writing structure?

This writing structure focuses on a specific issue and suggests one or more solutions. It is often used in essays, reports, and articles to clearly explain challenges and how to fix them.

Here is the problem and solution writing structure:

1. Introduction: Clearly state the problem and its solution. 
2. Body paragraph 1: Explain the problem, its cause and effects.
3. Body paragraph 2: Suggest solutions and their benefits.
4. Conclusion: Summing up the problem and the solution.

For example, I’m writing an article titled “How to Spot AI-Generated Content.” 

In the introduction, I describe AI-generated content as content created using AI tools. I then explain that AI-generated content is often not well-received because it tends to lack quality and emotional depth. This presents a significant problem.

After discussing its other drawbacks, I will offer solutions to address these issues. 

One solution is to use AI-generated content while adding a human touch. Another suggestion is to utilize an AI detector. This tool differentiates between AI-created and human-written content and provides a score in percentage form. It helps to ensure the quality and authenticity of the text.

After discussing these solutions, I will conclude the article by summarizing the problem, presenting the solutions, and sharing my own opinion on the matter.

8. Chronological writing structure

At school level, you had studied too many dates in your History books. Right? 

Which mostly students don’t like to learn. Especially me!

This kind of writing follows chronological writing structure.

It’s based on the order of events in time. It presents details in a sequence from the beginning to the end. 

Using this writing structure, it becomes easier for readers to understand the timeline of events. 

This structure is commonly used in storytelling, historical accounts, and any writing that involves a progression of time.

Let’s understand this writing structure with an example. Let’s assume you are writing a story about your day on hiking. What will you include?

You will likely begin by explaining what happened from the start: when you woke up, your journey to the mountains, the activities you did while hiking, and finally, your return home.

Ok! Now, let’s look for another example, maybe your favorite one! 

Cristiano Ronaldo!

He was born on February 5, 1985, in Madeira, Portugal. At age 12, he moved to Lisbon to join Sporting CP, showing immense talent. In 2003, he signed with Manchester United, where he won his first Premier League title. 

By 2009, he transferred to Real Madrid for a record fee, scoring 450 goals in 438 games. In 2018, Ronaldo moved to Juventus, winning multiple titles and furthering his legacy. In 2021, he returned to Manchester United, continuing to break records. 

Known for his incredible work ethic and skill, Ronaldo has become one of the greatest footballers in history, inspiring millions worldwide.

9. Cause and effect writing structure

Have you been aware of this writing structure before? 

Well! Cause and effect writing structure shows the relationship between events or actions. 

In this structure, you explain what caused something to happen (the cause) and what happened as a result (the effect). 

This type of writing helps readers understand why things occur and the consequences that follow.

Now, let’s understand this structure of writing with this example.

For instance, the decision of Greta Thunberg to skip school and protest for climate action (cause) has inspired millions of young people worldwide (effect). 

This movement has led to increased awareness about climate change and has pressured governments to take more action on environmental issues.

Before starting your essay or article, it's important to understand the background of your topic and its implications. 

Once you have this information, you can organize your thoughts clearly and begin writing. 

You should also consider using an AI paragraph generator to help you create your text. Simply provide the topic and other suggestions, and this tool will generate effective paragraphs that follow a cause and effect writing structure.

Final remarks

However, understanding different writing structures can greatly enhance your skills as a writer. 

Each structure helps organize your ideas and makes your writing clearer and more engaging for readers. 

By using the right structure for your content, you can effectively communicate your thoughts and connect with your audience. 

As you practice these structures, you’ll become a more confident and effective writer. Remember, a well-structured piece is key to good writing!

Frequently asked questions

How do I choose the right writing structure? 

Consider the purpose of your writing and the type of content you’re presenting. Choose a structure that best fits your ideas and helps convey your message effectively.

Can I mix different writing structures?

Yes! Mixing different writing structures can enhance your writing by providing variety and better supporting complex ideas. Just ensure the transitions between structures are smooth.

How can I make my writing more engaging? 

Use clear structures, incorporate descriptive details, and ensure your writing is free of errors. Engaging content is organized and connects with readers emotionally.