In persuasive writing, the author is trying to convince the audience to agree with a point of view. Persuasive essay writing differs from an academic argument in that an academic argument uses reason and logic to persuade its readers while a persuasive paper may rely on other techniques such as emotion. Persuasive writing examples can be found in newspapers or magazines. An opinion piece about an election or articles on one side of controversial issues like the death penalty, animal rights, or abortion would all be examples of persuasive writing.
Thesis Statement
The thesis statement for a persuasive essay should be placed in the introduction. It’s often the last sentence of the introductory paragraph. A thesis tells the main idea of the paper and, in the case of a persuasive paper, must state the writer’s position. It may also include the reasons the writer will use to support that position. The reasons must be listed in the same order they’re discussed in the paper. This is because a thesis also serves as a map for the paper’s structure.
For example, a student writing a persuasive essay arguing that high school seniors should be allowed to leave campus for lunch might use this as a thesis statement: High school seniors should be allowed to leave campus for lunch because they have earned the privilege, it’s an opportunity for them to be more responsible, and the off-campus lunch options are more nutritious.
The Body
The body of a persuasive essay should consist of paragraphs developing the reasons that support the writer’s position. Each paragraph needs to focus on one main idea, although the writer may spend several paragraphs discussing each reason. In fact, college writers should begin moving away from the five-paragraph essay structure they may have learned in high school and work on writing longer, more complex papers. However, the basic paragraph structure remains unchanged. A topic sentence should indicate the main idea of the paragraph. Often this is the paragraph’s first sentence. The rest of the paragraph should stay focused on developing that idea.
A writer can use a variety of techniques to persuade the audience. This support might play on the readers’ emotions. For example, a paper arguing against testing cosmetics on animals might include descriptions of the suffering caused by such testing to sway the audience. Emotional appeals are powerful tools in persuasive writing because they connect with readers on a personal level, evoking feelings of empathy and compassion.
Logic and statistics are also effective. For example, a reader will be more convinced that high school seniors should leave the campus for lunches if the writer can produce solid studies demonstrating a wider availability of nutritional options off-campus. Using facts and studies increases a writer’s credibility because they demonstrate that other people have examined the issue and made conclusions based on evidence. Presenting clear, logical arguments supported by data helps build a strong, convincing case.
Persuasive writing techniques include the shrewd use of vocabulary. Words can be chosen carefully to persuade readers in subtle ways. For example, for a paper on animal rights, describing laboratory animals as being “slaughtered” at the end of an experiment will evoke a stronger reaction in the reader than saying that the animals are put down or euthanized. The choice of words can significantly influence the reader’s perception and response.
Transitions
It’s important that a writer show how the different parts of the paper are related to one another. This not only brings unity to a piece of writing but also makes the writing itself flow smoothly.
Transition words like “consequently” and “therefore” show causal connections between ideas. Using key words and concepts can also bridge paragraphs. For example, a writer who has just finished arguing that seniors who leave campus for lunch are more responsible and is preparing to argue that there are better nutritional options outside of the school might begin discussing the new reason with a sentence like this: In addition to giving seniors more responsibility, allowing them to leave campus permits them to make better nutritional choices.
Effective transitions guide the reader through the essay, helping them follow the argument and understand how each point connects to the next. They create a logical flow that enhances the overall coherence of the essay.
Conclusion
For the conclusion of a persuasive paper, the writer should reinforce the position taken. A conclusion needs to summarize the main points of the paper and wrap it up for the reader. A call to action is another way that a persuasive paper differs from an academic argument. Persuasive writing often exhorts the reader not only to agree with the writer but to do something. In the conclusion of the persuasive paper about seniors leaving campus, a writer might urge the reader to speak to school administrators about making this a new rule.
The conclusion is the final opportunity to convince the reader of the writer’s argument. It should be strong and compelling, leaving a lasting impression. The writer might reiterate the key points, emphasizing the importance of the issue and the need for action. A well-crafted conclusion can inspire readers to change their views or take specific steps, aligning with the writer’s persuasive goals.
Expanding on Persuasive Writing Techniques
To further elaborate, persuasive writing often employs rhetorical devices to enhance its effectiveness. These include ethos, pathos, and logos—three modes of persuasion defined by Aristotle.
Ethos refers to the credibility and character of the writer. Establishing ethos involves demonstrating knowledge of the subject, using credible sources, and presenting information in a fair and ethical manner. When readers trust the writer, they are more likely to be persuaded by the argument.
Pathos appeals to the audience’s emotions. By using vivid language, personal anecdotes, and evocative examples, writers can elicit emotional responses that support their argument. Pathos is particularly powerful in persuasive writing because it can connect with readers on a deeper level, making the argument more relatable and compelling.
Logos relies on logic and reason. This involves using facts, statistics, and logical reasoning to support the argument. Presenting a well-structured argument with clear evidence makes it more convincing. Logos appeals to the rational side of the reader, providing concrete reasons to support the writer’s position.
Combining these rhetorical devices can create a balanced and persuasive argument. For example, in a persuasive essay on animal rights, the writer might establish ethos by citing reputable sources, use pathos by describing the suffering of animals, and apply logos by presenting data on the benefits of alternative testing methods.
The Importance of Audience Awareness
Understanding the audience is crucial in persuasive writing. Different audiences require different approaches. A persuasive essay aimed at a general audience might use more accessible language and focus on widely accepted values and emotions. In contrast, an essay targeting a specialized audience, such as policymakers or experts in a field, might emphasize technical details and logical arguments.
Tailoring the message to the audience increases the likelihood of persuasion. Writers should consider the audience’s beliefs, values, and knowledge level when crafting their argument. This helps in selecting the most effective evidence and rhetorical strategies to resonate with the readers.
Developing a Strong Argument
A strong persuasive essay not only presents the writer’s viewpoint but also addresses counterarguments. Acknowledging opposing views shows that the writer has considered different perspectives and is prepared to respond to them. This can strengthen the writer’s position by demonstrating a thorough understanding of the issue.
For example, in an essay arguing for off-campus lunch privileges for high school seniors, the writer might acknowledge concerns about safety and accountability. By addressing these concerns and providing solutions, such as implementing a sign-out system or requiring parental permission, the writer can make a more convincing case.
Conclusion
Writing a persuasive essay involves convincing the audience to agree with a point of view using a combination of emotional appeals, logical arguments, and credible evidence. By crafting a clear thesis statement, developing a well-structured body, using effective transitions, and concluding with a strong call to action, writers can create compelling persuasive essays. Understanding the audience, employing rhetorical devices, and addressing counterarguments further enhance the essay’s persuasiveness. With practice and attention to these techniques, writers can master the art of persuasive writing and influence their readers effectively.