Which word best describes the aim of a text that focuses on informing the reader?

The term that best describes a text aimed at informing the reader is "explanatory." This type of writing is focused on providing clear, detailed information about a specific topic, often explaining processes, concepts, or facts to enhance the reader's understanding. Explanatory texts are characterized by their objective nature and the aim to clarify rather than persuade, entertain, or simply describe.

In contrast, persuasive writing seeks to convince the reader to adopt a particular viewpoint or take action, while descriptive writing focuses on painting a vivid picture of a scene or object through detailed sensory language. Entertaining writing aims to amuse or engage the reader, often through storytelling or humor. Therefore, "explanatory" accurately captures the primary focus on information dissemination in the context of this question.