4. Author's Purpose, Tone & Point of View

Every text is written for a reason. Author's purpose is usually one of three:

• To inform — explain facts (a news report, an instruction manual).
• To persuade — convince you of an opinion (an editorial, an ad).
• To entertain — tell a story or amuse (a novel, a funny essay).

Tone is the author's attitude, shown through word choice. Words like 'waste', 'regret', and 'the last thing we need' signal a critical, disapproving tone. Words like 'wonderful' and 'exciting' signal an enthusiastic one. Tone is how something is said, not what is said.

Point of view is the perspective: first person ('I', 'we') shares a personal view; third person ('he', 'she', 'they') describes from outside.

⚠️ Common mistake: treating a persuasive passage as if it were neutral information. If the author is taking a side, the purpose is to persuade — and the 'facts' may be chosen to support that side.

💡 Tip: loaded, emotional words are your biggest clue to both tone and purpose. Underline them as you read.