[Writing Tips] Writing a Persuasive Essay

Persuasive or argumentative essay is meant to show an acceptance of your idea when, others don’t seem to agree with the ideas presented. The main goal of arguments is to get your viewpoint acknowledged taking the reader of the paper to get a closer look at the picture you want to present and at the same time, it allows them to reconsider your stand of opposition. In convincing others to reconsider your point, you must be able to have first, a topic that states an argument or disagreement that is backed up by facts, personal experience or examples that will support your claims or for further reference. In writing an argumentative paper, one must take note the standard parts of essay these are: the introduction, main body, and conclusion.

In addition, David Langlieb stated few points to remember in writing a persuasive essay these are: one must start with a clear thesis that utilizes unrelated events to manipulate the audience’s emotions and win them over to your side, use brackets to make it look like reputable scholars agree with your argument, In other cases you can just make these endorsements up (don’t overdo it and nobody will notice), pointless filler makes your essay longer, create a straw man you can tear apart really easily. Most professors will tell you to argue the opposing position (make this as easy as possible), propose absurd alternatives that make your thesis seem like the only logical position a reasonable person could take, more filler, but this time use literary references to make yourself seem sophisticated and well read, and tie the filler into the thesis of your paper. The connection can be loose because you’ve already established yourself as sophisticated and well read (2003). These are just the head start for persuasive essay writing. In the next few paragraphs are the intricate details of what must an argumentative essay must contain.

In writing an essay, it’s always to go back to the basics as in, the pre- writing phase that includes establishing a topic, organizing the ideas, write the first draft, revise the first draft and lastly, proofreading of the final draft. However, there are various factors that are needed in preparing what to write; the writer must have a concern in mind; probably a specific occurrence have stimulated you and given you a headstrong reason to write persuasively. For example, there’s a city ordinance against illegal loggers yet, the mayor of your city doesn’t seem to mind them. This would be the occasion to write an editorial expressing your opposition. Once the topic is chosen, the next step is to gather necessary details in defining and to support the topic chosen; this also, would help the writer in addressing well his / her audience. One must remember to keep the ideas flowing to get a simultaneous environment. How? By brainstorming of related issues this would at the same time, would serve as guidelines or outlines the persuasive paper.

In starting the essay, consider an attention grabber or a heading to make a lively introduction. Examples of attention grabber would include (1) opening with a fact or with an unusual detail: it is known that the Philippines, as one of the most visited places for a summer get away. But do they know that it’s the most frequently visited typhoon among Asian countries. For a year it is calculated to a minimum of 20 typhoons per year. (2) Opening with a question: birth control pills effective or not? (3) Opening with a quotation such as "A true soul need not hide his thoughts." (Hjalmar Söderberg, Gertrude). Direct quotes from leading experts that support your position are invaluable. One must make sure that the quotation cited must relate to the topic intended. (3) Presenting an illustration by using examples or anecdotes especially those that brief and points out what is intended. (4) Opening with a shocking statement: the advent of human cloning is at hand. In addition, the introduction should identify the focus of the essay; highlight major points and arguments by creating a situation statement. For example: I want to argue that there should be no tuition free increase in private schools. In here, you must consider the following: What is then that needs to be accomplished? State the relevance of the proposed situation statement as to its importance, significant individuals that will be affected, and outcome once this will be realized by the many. In return, the writer must be able to state the presence of the problems that are needed to be solved that made you write about the argument – also, arouses the reader’s curiosity so that he or she will wan to read on.

The body of the essay is where the argument is developed. It must provide evidences that shall refute the opposition’s claim that was offered in the introduction. One could site at least three evidence and these evidences must be elaborated further in three different paragraphs, in those three paragraphs consider one paragraph stating the opposing viewpoints and counter – argument. In the writing workshop by Holt, Rinehart and Winston; they suggested techniques to develop support for your position through increasing your appeal which usually consist of a combination of three types of appeals: (1) logical appeals speak to the reader’s ability to think by presenting reasons backed by evidence – facts, factual anecdotes, and expert testimony. Logical appeals should form the backbone of your persuasive essay avoiding logical fallacies, or errors in reasoning. (2) Emotional appeals stir’s reader’s feelings with descriptive details, connotative language, and anecdotes that evoke emotions. This is where analogies and rhetorical devices should be mentioned. Lastly, ethical appeals establish the writer is fair and knowledgeable or call upon the reader’s sense of right or wrong. Ethical appeals include discussion of the writer’s authority to speak on the subject, concessions to opposing points of view, reasonable language, and statements about values.

As I have mentioned above, the main section could use of three separate paragraphs, in the first paragraph one could use of the logical appeal. This can be done through elaboration of the suggested topic by using research on related issues, the experiences of the author itself or probably examples. As suggested by the Academy of Arts (2004), further elaboration can be done through: (1) general hypothetical instance: used particularly when creating an argument and you want the reader to see a different point of view. Use cues for the reader (e.g. suppose that and what if) (2) clarifying a position: this refers to the things that need further explanation and assumptions, (3) drawing comparisons by choosing related topics either of the two patterns that are opposing or alternating. An example of drawing out comparison is when one wants to convince the reader particularly the person who has the power to change the situation, you must be able to state how the said argument will affect the writer and possible reason that the reader won’t listen to the idea. To counteract, the writer must know how to defend the said argument by identifying the weak points that could probably be of use by the opposition; as well as, if the opposition’s thinking has weak links that might be of use for future discussion. This can be done by working out with the negative aspects of your argument, you will be able to draw out weak points that the opposition could use against you. In cases such as this, one can classify the advantages and disadvantage of the said argument, in order to make the idea broader and this would add significant details like the advantages of no tuition fee increase would include (1) students would be able to acquire quality education at a better price, (2) students does not need to transfer to public schools (3) there will be no more rallies regarding “no tuition fee increase” rather, the students will exert their effort to excel beyond expectation for their school’s name. In stating the disadvantages one could use the following: (1) there will be an increase demand of public teachers since, more students from private schools would transfer to public schools. (2) It would limit the aspiration of the young to study in a private school especially those who are less fortunate. (3) There will be less enrollee in the private school due to high tuition fee offered. By stating the pros and cons, it will open the mind of the opposition to the reality – one can justify by citing news or articles that shall support it. Consider their importance: prioritize, edit, sequence and discard the unnecessary details. You might also begin thinking about how to disprove the opposition’s arguments as a transitional statement for the next paragraph. This is also one way of testing own argument as debatable since, it mentioned of a two – sided track. In disapproving the opposing argument, it would be best to understand the opposing viewpoint of your position and then counter it by providing complementary or diverse evidence or by finding mistakes and inconsistencies in the logic of the opposing argument. Jot down any ideas that come to mind, thinking about the impact of the situation on people and society. This will help you write clear points on whatever side you do choose, and also to understand some of the arguments of the opposing side which you can then effectively counteract in your paper.

The second and third paragraph of the main section, you could use the emotional and ethical appeal respectively. This could be done by defining relevant details that would back your opinion. A persuasive writer would do thorough research of the said argument as a means to have a solid reason. The progression would start from a general idea to a particular by citing examples that are related to the focus in the first paragraph. In here one can draw an analogy (Academy of Arts, 2004): use an analogy to explain or elaborate an idea by identifying significant likeness between two objects when otherwise they are quite different. This is helpful when the comparison is made to something that is familiar to the reader. The following are different ways to support to your agreement: (1) facts – a powerful means of convincing, facts can come from your reading, observation, or personal experience. Take note that not to confuse facts with truths. A "truth" is an idea believed by many people, but it cannot be proven. (2) Statistics - These can provide excellent support and make sure that these are only from very good, reliable, and responsible sources. Always cite your sources to avoid a vindictive crime that is plagiarism. Lastly, (3) Examples - increase your meaning and make your thoughts solid and tangible. They serve as the proof either from personal experience or from another. Researching the topic is the main key that allows you to expand further the details. Thereby, one must note to make a list of essential points, and then elaborate on each one with the information you’ve learned. The argument must be logical and reasonable, containing proven facts about the issue. Using evidence is the best way to get your point across, and using statistics, specific cases and quotes backs up your argument. Don’t state something as a fact just because you think many people believe it – you must use sources. Remember that limit each paragraph to one main idea and prove your purpose continually by using specific examples. Always have a transitional sentence to keep the reader on track for the next part – the conclusion.

The conclusion is the last paragraph of the paper. It must present strong points that summarize your view in a clear and memorable way that calls for action as to whom the paper is intended for. It also involves restating the main idea of the paper or what the reader intends to convince the reader. The Academy of Arts (2004) has outlined few criteria that might be of use in writing the conclusion, these are: (1) restate your thesis or focus statement – this can be done with the used of the techniques which have been drawn out in the introductory part. (2) Summarize the main points: paraphrasing the main points of argument considering the three logical appeals that was mentioned in paragraph 5. (3) Write a personal comment or call for action. This can be done by: (i) prediction – a cause and effect discussion. The conclusion may suggest or predict what the results may or may not be in the situation discussed or similar situations; (ii) with a question – closing with a question lets your readers make their own predictions and draw their won conclusion; (iii) with recommendations: a recommendations closing is one that stresses the actions or remedies that should be taken; (iv) with a quotation: since quotation may summarize, predict, question, or call for action, this can be use within a conclusion. In retrospect, you should be aware of the language choice as an important indication to influence the reader to understand and may adopt the writer’s point of view.

As a general rule in persuasive essay writing, the introduction must seize the reader’s attention or preferably the audience itself. Your readers might be reluctant to respond favorably to your argument; you have to establish a bond with them before stating your purpose. This bond should be established through the use of a core appeal, a theme to introduce in the opening paragraph and use as a key organizing principle. You can use the attention grabber, this will help in focusing their attention on the issue you have presented back with background information that they need to know about the said argument The main section of the essay or the body must contain two contradictory sides – remember the pros and cons on the particular issue. In here, you must have at least two or three evidences that shall support your claim. Be sure to remain firm on your opinion without name – calling because that will only show poor –reasoning that will defeat your argument and the writer itself, will lose its credibility. As a tip given by Holt, Rinehart and Winston, the tone of newspaper and magazine editorials is usually informal and conversational; the tone of persuasive essay written in academic setting is usually more formal. Remember, however, that formal does not mean a stuffy or stilted style. Taking an overly formal or pompous tone with readers is almost certain to alienate rather than persuade them. In developing and organizing your support for your claim consider the legal appeals. Lastly, conclude with a restatement of your argument as to which you want the reader to take action, if suitable.

Once done in the first draft, it is advisable to get a second opinion. On the first reading check the content and organization, one can use the assessment for persuasive essays by Kemper, D & Sebranek, M. (2001). The assessment for rubric for persuasive essay is as follows: (1) stimulating ideas – focuses on a statement of opinion about a timely subject; contains specific facts and details to support the opinion; maintains a clear, consistent stand from the start to finish. (2) Logical organization - includes a clear beginning, strong support, and a convincing conclusion; arranges ideas in an organized manner (perhaps offering point first or last); presents logical arguments. On the second reading check for style: the language use as elements of style in writing is important in persuading your readers or dismays them. That is to consider the (3) Engaging voice – speaks in a convincing way, using appropriate tone; shows that the writer feels strongly about his or her opinion. (4) Original word choice – explains or defines any unfamiliar terms; uses language that shows as understanding of the subject. In here, Holt, Rinehart and Winston suggested the use of repetition for a persuasive effect that is the repetition of words and phrases and a rhetorical device that can prove especially effective in the art of persuasion. The reason why repetition is used is because it is use to: emphasize ideas, unify ideas, establish rhythm, and make message memorable. Once, everything has met your standard during the revision process: consider the following questions – have you encourage a positive response from the readers by making the argument prominent and credible? Have you chosen the line of argument most probably to invite the readers? Are you sure that the argumentative essay is concise and interesting as possible? Are you sure that the action you want the readers to take is clearly described? And lastly, is your tone consistently courteous and professional? If all the answer to the questions is yes then, proof reading for the last time before it is to be published.

What can persuasive essay teach us? Well, this can help us to become effective writers as long as we follow the correct guidelines in writing a persuasive essay. It would be easier for us to write, teach and edit our own literary essays once we know how to focus on a particular topic, organize, support and elaborate, employ styles in writing and conventions which involves correctness in sentence formation and usage.

Reference:

Academy of Arts. 2004. persuasive writing. 18 July 2006 < http://www.orangeusd.k12.ca.us/yorba/persuasive_writing1.htm#conclusion>

Longlieb, D. The Bi – College News Online. 8 April 2006. How to write a persuasive essay. 18 July 18, 2006 < http://biconews.com/article/view/198>

Holt, Rinehart, & Winston. Writing workshop: writing a persuasive essay. No date available. 18 July 2006.

Sebranek, P., Kemper, D., & Meyer, V. 2001. Writers Inc: A student handbook for writing and learning. Wilmington, MA: Great Source Education Group, Inc.

Söderberg, H. 2005. Gertrude. 18 July 2006 < http://www.quotationreference.com/update_archive.php>