How to write a persuasive essay

How to write a persuasive essay

A persuasive essay is meant to convince readers into changing their opinion. When writing a persuasive essay you are supposed to use a more convincing language to be able to win your readers over. A persuasive essay should show the reader which side you are on. The most important thing is the evidence, opinion and facts you use to present your points.

Steps to follow when writing a persuasive essay

• Determine the purpose of your essay and which side you are on. Your topic will help you choose the side you want to stand on. After knowing the side you are able to define your purpose appropriately.
• Analyze your audience. Are they against or for the issue or neutral?
• Do a comprehensive research on your topic. Go through what you have already learnt in class and find out if there is something useful you can use. Visit your library and check online for more information. Having a full knowledge of what you will be presenting will make your writing much simpler.
• An essay must have a structure. The way you structure it will help you gain more grades. Therefore ensure you present your points in an orderly manner, evidence and sentences in the right place.

What do you need to produce an effective argument within your essay?

• Understand your topic well. Besides the normal knowledge research more to gain confidence in the essay you write.
• Your argument must take two sides. In your persuasive essay choose one side to debate on.
• You have to attack the opposing side. do this by providing contrasting evidence and finding mistakes to pin them down
• Use solid evidence to prove your points.

How do you write a persuasive essay?

Introduction

Begin your introduction with a catchy statement to get the attention of your readers. This should be the readers who are against the issue you are discussing. Open with an exaggerated statement, question quotation among others but should be related to the topic. A thesis statement is another part that should be in your introduction. Pick a thesis that will tell the reader about your topic.

The body

In this part you are required to explain your points in details and provide the evidence that supports it. It should be structured such that you present a point followed by the evidence. Use statistics and quotes to prove your arguments. A debate becomes more interesting when you dig into the other side’s viewpoints. Provide evidence to prove them wrong. At least you will have presented points from two sides and have evidence to prove them both.

How to write successful body paragraphs

• Begin with concessions
• Clarify your position
• Use transitions between paragraphs

The conclusion

Summarize your points and remind the readers your thesis statement. Finish with recommendations or a personal comment. You can as well leave the audience with a question to ponder over.

A Persuasive essay outline

Introduction

1. A hook
2. Background information about your topic
3. Thesis statement

1. First argument

1. Topic sentence explaining your point and reason
2. Possible concession towards opposing argument
3. Elaboration to back your point
4. Clincher

2. Second argument

1. Topic sentence explaining your point and reason
2. Possible concession towards opposing argument
3. Elaboration to back your point
4. Clincher

3. Third argument

1. topic sentence explaining your point and reason
2. Possible concession towards opposing argument
3. Elaboration to back your point
4. Clincher

4. Opposing viewpoint

1. Rebuttal to the opposing point
2. Elaboration to back your rebuttal

5. Conclusion

1. Summary of points
2. Thesis statement
3. Recommendation or comment