It is the purpose of this essay to
Academic essay writing expression
Use this phrase to professionally announce your main argument in formal essays or reports.
In 15 Seconds
- A formal way to state your writing's main objective.
- Used primarily in the introduction of academic or professional papers.
- Acts as a clear roadmap for the reader's expectations.
Meaning
This phrase is a formal way to tell your reader exactly what your writing aims to achieve. Think of it as a mission statement for your paper.
Key Examples
3 of 6Writing a university history paper
It is the purpose of this essay to analyze the causes of the French Revolution.
The goal of this essay is to analyze the causes of the French Revolution.
Submitting a business proposal
It is the purpose of this report to outline our expansion strategy for 2024.
This report aims to explain our plan for growing the business in 2024.
A student joking with a friend about a long email
It is the purpose of this three-page email to ask if you want coffee.
I wrote this long email just to ask you for coffee.
Cultural Background
This phrase is a staple of the 'Anglo-American' academic writing style, which prioritizes clarity and a clear thesis statement early in the text. Unlike some cultures that value a slow, circular buildup to a point, English-speaking academia expects the 'purpose' to be stated explicitly in the introduction.
Use Strong Verbs
Always follow the phrase with a powerful verb like `analyze`, `examine`, or `critique` rather than simple words like `talk about`.
Don't Repeat Yourself
Only use this phrase once in your introduction. Using it multiple times makes your writing sound repetitive and robotic.
In 15 Seconds
- A formal way to state your writing's main objective.
- Used primarily in the introduction of academic or professional papers.
- Acts as a clear roadmap for the reader's expectations.
What It Means
Think of this phrase as your paper's mission statement. You are telling the reader exactly what to expect. It is like a signpost on a highway. It points the way forward. You are making a promise to the reader. You are saying, "I will talk about this specific thing."
How To Use It
You usually place this in your first paragraph. It follows your hook or general introduction. You must follow it with a strong verb. Use words like examine, critique, or demonstrate. For example, It is the purpose of this essay to examine climate change. It sets a professional tone immediately. It makes your writing feel organized and trustworthy.
When To Use It
Use this when you are writing for school. It works great for university applications too. Professional white papers also love this phrase. Use it in a formal report for your boss. It shows you are serious and focused. It is perfect for any situation where clarity is king. Even a serious cover letter could use a variation of this.
When NOT To Use It
Never use this in a text message. Your friends will think you have become a robot. Avoid it in casual blog posts or diaries. It feels too heavy for a light topic. Don't use it in a love letter! It would sound very cold and strange. Imagine saying, "It is the purpose of this text to ask for pizza." That is a bit much, right?
Cultural Background
English academic culture loves directness and transparency. We do not like to guess the author's point. This phrase provides that "bottom line" up front. It comes from centuries of formal logic and rhetoric. It reflects a Western preference for linear arguments. We want to know the destination before the journey starts.
Common Variations
You might see This essay intends to or The goal of this paper is. Some people prefer The following analysis seeks to. These all do the same job. They act as a roadmap for the reader. Choosing one depends on how formal you want to be. It is the purpose of... is often seen as the most traditional choice.
Usage Notes
This phrase is strictly for formal writing. It is highly effective in academic settings but should be avoided in conversational or creative writing contexts.
Use Strong Verbs
Always follow the phrase with a powerful verb like `analyze`, `examine`, or `critique` rather than simple words like `talk about`.
Don't Repeat Yourself
Only use this phrase once in your introduction. Using it multiple times makes your writing sound repetitive and robotic.
The 'I' Debate
In some modern English departments, saying `In this essay, I will argue` is okay, but `It is the purpose of this essay` is the 'safe' choice if you want to remain objective.
Examples
6It is the purpose of this essay to analyze the causes of the French Revolution.
The goal of this essay is to analyze the causes of the French Revolution.
Standard academic use to define the scope of the work.
It is the purpose of this report to outline our expansion strategy for 2024.
This report aims to explain our plan for growing the business in 2024.
Used to show professionalism and clear intent in a corporate setting.
It is the purpose of this three-page email to ask if you want coffee.
I wrote this long email just to ask you for coffee.
Using a very formal phrase for a trivial matter creates humor.
It is the purpose of this letter to express my deep dissatisfaction with the service.
I am writing this letter to tell you I am unhappy with the service.
Sets a serious, firm tone for a grievance.
It is the purpose of this essay to share how my upbringing shaped my values.
This essay will explain how my childhood influenced who I am today.
Adds a layer of structure to a personal narrative.
It is the purpose of this text to see if you are awake.
I'm texting to see if you're up.
This sounds unnaturally stiff for a text message.
Test Yourself
Complete the sentence for a formal research paper.
It is the ___ of this essay to evaluate the effectiveness of the new policy.
`Purpose` is the standard noun used in this specific academic formula.
Choose the best verb to follow the phrase in a formal context.
It is the purpose of this essay to ___ the relationship between sleep and memory.
`Investigate` is a high-level academic verb that matches the formality of the phrase.
🎉 Score: /2
Visual Learning Aids
Formality Levels of Stating Intent
Texting a friend
I'm writing because...
Work email
I want to talk about...
Business Report
This report aims to...
Academic Thesis
It is the purpose of this essay to...
Where to use 'It is the purpose of this essay to'
University Exam
Defining an argument
Grant Proposal
Explaining project goals
Legal Document
Stating the intent of a brief
Scientific Journal
Introducing a study
Frequently Asked Questions
11 questionsNot at all! It is actually a great way to show your teachers that you understand how to structure a formal argument.
It might be a bit too stiff. Instead, try The purpose of this letter is to express my interest in... for a slightly more natural feel.
No, you can swap it for paper, report, study, or thesis depending on what you are actually writing.
Usually, it is the last sentence of your first paragraph, acting as the 'thesis statement' or a lead-in to it.
Yes, if it is a very formal presentation, like at a conference. For a wedding toast, definitely avoid it!
Yes, The purpose of this essay is to is slightly more direct and just as acceptable in formal writing.
Verbs like elucidate, evaluate, compare, and contrast are excellent choices that impress readers.
It is a classic academic formula. While some modern writers prefer more direct styles, it remains a standard in universities worldwide.
Usually, no. In the conclusion, you would say As demonstrated, the purpose of this essay was to... using the past tense.
Academic writing often avoids the word I to stay objective. This phrase helps you stay 'invisible' as the author.
Yes, it is used across all major English-speaking academic systems, including the UK, USA, Canada, and Australia.
Related Phrases
This paper aims to
A slightly less formal way to state the goal of your writing.
The following analysis seeks to
A very sophisticated way to introduce a detailed investigation.
In this essay, I will argue that
A direct way to state a specific opinion or position.
The objective of this study is
Commonly used in scientific or social science research papers.
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