How to Write an Informative Text for GCSE (Edexcel GCSE English Language)

One of the options that may be included in Section B is a task to write a section of a guide, textbook, leaflet or booklet. For the purposes of this revision note, we are calling this an “informative text”. If you are given this as one of the options in your exam, the purpose will likely be to advise, inform and entertain.

The following guide to writing an informative text in your Edexcel English Language GCSE exam includes:

• Key features of an informative text

• How to structure your informative text

Key features of an informative text

This type of text includes information, advice and often some elements of persuasion. It is important to note that, while you should use some stylistic conventions of an article, such as a heading or sub-headings, you should not include features of layout like pictures or columns. You are only being assessed on the text of the guide or leaflet, and your ability to organise and structure your ideas in a logical and coherent way.

While the Edexcel specification states that you may be asked to write a section for a textbook, leaflet or booklet, you are still being asked to write to inform or advise. Some key features of this style of writing include:

Some expectations of more specific tasks are as follows:

Because this type of text is intended for publication, it is important to use Standard English and to vary your sentence and paragraph lengths to keep your audience engaged.

How to structure your informative text

As with all of the other text types in Section B, you should spend no more than 10 minutes planning what you are going to write before you begin your response.

To plan a range of points, you can:

• Create a mind-map or write a list of points and techniques to use:

  • It can also be helpful to number your ideas to structure your answer in a specific order

  • It is important to use the bullet points given to you in the task to structure your response

• Your response should start with a brief introduction

• Your response should then be divided into 3 sub-headings:

  • Develop separate ideas or points in each paragraph under each sub-heading

  • Each sub-heading should have 1–2 separate points underneath it

  • Ensure you have developed each point or idea thoroughly before moving on

• Finish with a concluding paragraph:

  • This could indicate where your reader can find further information, advice or guidance, or could even include suggestions or recommendations

Below is an example of how you might structure a guide to exercising for young people:

To produce an effective response, you should aim to develop your points carefully in each paragraph, using language features and techniques to highlight ideas and emphasise your points. 

So remember, the basic features of an informative text that the examiner would expect to see are:

• Correct formatting:

  • A heading

  • Subheadings to structure your response

• A clear introduction:

  • This needs to be engaging and direct

  • It should introduce the “issue” you have been given and hook the reader

• A well structured argument:

  • Paragraphs begin with topic sentences and are effectively linked

  • Include facts, “research” and other evidence to support your response

  • Always remember who your audience is and tailor your writing to suit them

• A direct and engaging conclusion:

  • This should include recommendations or a call to action