A writer will consider several factors about the subject material when deciding to use the referential style. Is the purpose to educate the reader? Is there a a strong thesis that can be formulated about the subject? Can it be supported? The thesis is the "point" of the paper -- having a strong thesis keeps the paper on track. A good thesis will have an overall topic and a main point the author is trying to support.
If the writer's thesis can be supported by substantial facts and evidence, then use of the referential writing style is indicated. Otherwise, the piece should be written in a more anecdotal or opinionated style. The result of the research done on the subject may help determine the style needed. A referential article will contain information from accurate sources and be presented in a clear and logical way that supports the thesis.
Because the author wants the focus to be on the subject material when using the referential style, the tone is usually more neutral and objective. Referential writing is typically done in the third person and the style tends to be more formal. Informing the reader on a topic is the primary goal, so things such as personal experience, personal feelings, jokes, entertainment, persuasion or argument are generally avoided.
There are four general organizational patterns, and all will work in a referential article. "Classification" groups related elements into categories. This works best when there are multiple parts or steps to be presented. "Division" examines a single item or point but divides it into smaller parts. "Evaluation" makes a judgment on a topic and provides facts to support that viewpoint. It also includes comparison/contrast, advantage/disadvantage or cause and effect. "Timeline" presents the history of the topic.