The Persuasive Essay Steps to Better Writing

What is a persuasive/argument essay? Persuasive writing, also known as the argument essay. Uses logic and reason to show that one idea is more legitimate than another Attempts to persuade a reader to adopt a certain point of view In order to convince the reader, you need more than just opinion; you need facts and examples to back your opinion.

Essential (A MUST HAVE) Be well informed about your topic. Add to your knowledge, read about it, take notes. Test your thesis: It must have two sides. It must be debatable. If you can write a thesis directly opposing your own, then you’ve got it. ***Disprove the opposing argument. Understand the opposite viewpoint and counter it by providing contrasting evidence. *** Support your position with evidence. Remember it must appeal to reason.

Ways to support your argument Facts – A powerful means of convincing, facts can come from your reading, observation, or personal experience. Must be able to be proven. Statistics – These can provide excellent support. Be sure your statistics come from responsible sources. Always cite them. Quotes – Direct quotes from leading experts that support your position are invaluable. Examples – Make your ideas concrete. They are the proof.

Ways to write the Persuasive Essay 1. Identify your main idea or point of view Your purpose will be to persuade your audience to accept this idea or point of view 2. Identify your audience Try to understand your audience. For example; are the readers undecided about your issue or hostile toward your point of view? 3. Identify the strongest supporting points Considering your audience, choose these 4. Identify the most significant opposing view Explaining and then refuting the opposing view strengthens the credibility and scope of your essay.

Do not use “I” Format correctly

Topics to consider Why drinking age should or should not be lowered. Why students should or should not take a gap year Why flights should or should not be stopped from Africa Cell phones in school Gas prices Death penalty Food prices and obesity School lunches should be healthier or cheaper or both Children should not be allowed to drink diet soda Drug screens for the government assistant participants should be mandatory