Persuasive Writing What is it?

Definition: Persuasive writing is a type of writing where an author tries to convince the reader to do something or think a certain way.

This sounds like great writing! How do I do it? There are techniques in persuasive writing to help you become convincing. You will learn six of them.

Glittering Generality This is information that is so general it sounds like a fact, but it isn’t. Example: Many people believe milk is good for your health. Just how many is many? How specifically is it good for your health?

Repetition People will often believe something if they hear it over and over again. It seems more believable the more times you hear it. Head on! Apply directly to the forehead! Head on! Apply directly to the forehead! Head on! Apply directly to the forehead!

Bandwagon Appeal This means relying on what others are doing before making your own decision. Example: All of the girls at school wear Ugg boots. Everybody’s buying them and you’ll be left out if you don’t.

Expert Testimony Famous people or someone you respect or like says the product is good and advertises the product. Example: The “Got Milk?” ads all have famous people drinking milk.

Citing Statistics Showing statistics or numbers makes a message look like it is based on fact. Statistics can be misleading. Example: 200 doctors recommend Tylenol. What if 2,000 doctors recommend Advil though?

Emotional Appeal Someone tries to scare you into buying the product. If you don’t buy it, something awful might happen to you. Example: A commercial advertising a home security system will show a burglar breaking in while kids are playing. Emotional appeal can also make you feel sad or guilty.