Be persuasive using rhetoric, logic and language, not aggression.
Persuasive writing, when done well, has the power to change the world. Some of the greatest speeches given by great men and women throughout history could be considered argumentative or persuasive writing. When writing a persuasive essay, one of the most important components is conviction. It's difficult to persuade someone of an idea or opinion you are not sure of yourself. Whatever your opinions may be, argue them effectively by using persuasive vocabulary, accurate facts and a creative style to make your words unforgettable.
Instructions
1. Create an outline or prewriting to organize your ideas. When considering your approach, consider your audience and the preconceived notions they might have. For example, when writing a persuasive essay on marriage and why it is becoming obsolete for many, keep in mind that there are many people who still consider marriage an essential part of mature human relationships. Your main ideas might be reasons why marriage is becoming obsolete. Beneath each main idea, a subheading should address the other point of view and why it's not as valid as yours.
2. Research your issue. Make sure you are familiar with all sides of the issue before you begin writing so that you can effectively counter any argument from the opposing side. It's also important to find common ground between your opinion and the opposing opinion. You may want to create a Venn diagram graphic organizer that identifies the similarities and differences between your argument and the opposition.
3. Begin writing the essay by appealing to reason. Give accurate facts and background to support your argument. You may even wish here to bring in an allusion to other situations similar to the one you discuss. Martin Luther King Jr. effectively wove biblical allusions and metaphors into his speeches to appeal to the audience's sense of compassion. Though he wrote a speech, not an essay, the tactic was the same. Bring in facts, data and outside examples that will strengthen your argument.
4. Cite outside sources with established credibility. Throughout the body paragraphs of your essay, you should bring in an occasional quote from a credible source encountered during your research. For example, in a persuasive essay on stem-cell research, you may want to cite sources from noted scientists or medical professionals who have worked in the field.
5. Conclude your essay with by reiterating the common ground shared between your point of view and those opposing it. Appeal to reason so that your readers can logically come to the same conclusion you have. For example, in a persuasive essay promoting the abolition of child labor you might conclude with, "After all, doesn't every child deserves a carefree existence?" Repeat your position and the reasons why it is the most valid position to hold. Invalidate counterarguments and reassure your readers by briefly referring to facts previously mentioned in the essay that support your argument as the correct one.
Tags: persuasive essay, your argument, between your, accurate facts, becoming obsolete, common ground
