Persuasive Writing
How do we develop a persuasive argument?
First, identify the issue. What are you writing about? What do you want your readers or listeners to know? What are you trying to convince them of?
Once you know your topic or issue, list reasons and examples that support each side. Try to think of at least three reasons for or against the idea in your essay. This will help you make your argument stronger in your essay. For example, if our topic is whether to buy new books for the library, think of three reasons why we should use the money to buy new books, and three reasons we should not. |
Then determine what side of the issue you are on. Are you for or against the issue? Should we get new books in the library, or should the school spend that money another way? Your opinions should be supported by examples that will convince your listener or reader to agree with you. Use the examples and reasons you thought of before you chose your side. The more support and evidence you have for your topic, the stronger your argument will be.
How can I organize my ideas?
How do I write a strong persuasive argument?
Think of it like an Oreo. O.R.E.O. In a persuasive paragraph, state your opinion, followed by a reason for that opinion. Support that with an example (or more than one). At the end of the paragraph, restate your opinion, to help your reader understand more clearly what it is you are trying to persuade.
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Use strong language that makes your argument clear. Make it clear what your reader should think, and WHY they should have that opinion. Give examples that will show how your argument is better than the counter-argument. In your writing, you should definitely mention what other people think. Recognize that there are different opinions, and present it in your writing. One way to do this is to say: "Some people think that..." or "Others might say..." When you present this counterargument, you are showing your reader / listener that you have thought carefully about the topic, and that you are still convinced of your side. You should follow the different opinion by giving a rebuttal: showing how that different opinion is still not correct, or a way to fix that problem. Here are some things to check:
The spirit, the believ-ability Are you a believable source? An expert? Have you done your research? The logic, the reason, the real-life examples Do your ideas make sense? Have you thought through this carefully? Do your examples and evidence support your thesis? The emotions, the feelings Are you connecting to your audience on an emotional level? Do you make them understand how they would be better off according to your argument? |
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