Persuasive writing is a skill everyone should have, because it teaches the finer points of being able to express oneself in a way that shows respect for not only the process and preparation of an argument, but also for the opponent and the opposing point of view. The concept of writing persuasively is present in everyday life, from advertising and Op/Eds, to speeches given by politicians seeking re-election. Persuasive essays are just that: essays written to persuade the reader to agree with an idea or belief. Since this is an essay, stay away from screaming and yelling, because your reader won’t be able to hear you. Channel that audible energy into what matters most-winning.
An effective persuasive essay won’t just convince your reader how right you are; it will also prove how wrong the opposing argument is. The information below details the process to create a winning argument.
Research
- This is the foundation of your argument, so it needs to be strong. Do not depend on only one or two sources. A small focus will lead to big problems later on in the process.
- Effective research benefits you in more ways than one. It provides you with the information you need to support your point and allows you to get into the mind of the opposition and how it plans to attack your argument. By doing your research you are also conducting reconnaissance.
After you have performed your due diligence through effective and efficient research, it’s time to start writing.
Introduction
- This is your one and only opportunity to capture your reader’s attention, so suck them in with a disturbing or shocking fact.
- Provide a brief summary.
- State where you stand on the topic.
Body
- Use a few paragraphs to provide your reader with the information you culled during the research phase.
- Do not present multiple points in a single paragraph. Roll out your points one at a time in separate paragraphs in order to present your evidence in an even and efficient manner.
Opponent’s Stance
- Provide your rebuttal to the opposing view.
- Acknowledge and respect the opposition’s point of view. Exploit the weaknesses and counter their arguments with the evidence you have presented.
Conclusion
- Refresh your reader’s memory by reviewing the points you have made.
- Take care to emphasize and exploit any weaknesses in the opposing side’s argument.