Author’s Purpose Worksheet

Why Did the Author Write It?

Authors write texts for different reasons. Understanding why an author wrote a text can help you better understand what you read.

An author may write to:

• Inform — to teach you facts or give you information.

• Entertain — to tell an interesting or enjoyable story.

• Share an opinion — to tell you what the author thinks or believes.

Your Practice Activity

Download and print the Author’s Purpose Worksheet below.

Read each passage carefully and think about what the author wants the reader to learn, think, or enjoy. Then choose the answer that best explains the author’s purpose.

Reading Tip: Look for clues! Facts often signal that the author wants to inform, story events may signal entertainment, and words such as I think, I believe, or best may signal an opinion.

When you finish, review your answers and reread any passage that was tricky.

Download the printable worksheet below to begin.