Expression in expository writing

[soccerboi]

In the ATAR notes English study guide it said to use expression such as "appears", "maybe", "at times" and "perhaps" etc to avoid sounding persuasive and committing to any one position.

I was just thinking, would examiners consider this as a sign that you are lacking confidence in what you say?

[BlueSky_3]

Absolutely not, since it shows that, if you pull it off correctly, a thorough exploration of the ideas...which is what an expository is.

[shinny]

Main reason for saying that is that it prevents you from outright contradicting yourself, which you will almost inevitably do if you perform a thorough exploration of the ideas at hand.

[meganrobyn]

If you feel uncomfortable with the lack of confidence suggested by 'maybe' and 'perhaps' ('at times' doesn't have the same ring to it), you can always substitute similar phrases such as 'suggests' or 'one interpretation' etc. I think the main idea to draw from it is producing writing that acknowledges the existence of multiple points of view, interpretations, etc.

[monkeywantsabanana]

Not to mention it makes you sound philosophical

[charmanderp]

I think the main idea to draw from it is producing writing that acknowledges the existence of multiple points of view, interpretations, etc.

Agree completely with this. If you're too heavy handed and absolute when raising your points for discussion, anytime where you seek to consolidate this with a slight exploration of an alternative/oppositional point will come across as a contradiction.