Writing the Persuasive Essay: Step by Step to a 5 Keena P. Day, M.A.

Purpose of Persuasive Writing In persuasive writing, a writer takes a position FOR or AGAINST an issue and writes to convince the reader to believe or do something Persuasive writing, also known as the argument essay, utilizes logic and reason to show that one idea is more legitimate than another idea. It attempts to persuade a reader to adopt a certain point of view or to take a particular action. The argument must always use sound reasoning and solid evidence by stating facts, giving logical reasons, using examples, and quoting experts.

Step #1: Read the Prompt Read the prompt sheet you will have thoroughly. Understand what the prompt is asking you to consider. Watch for prompts that ask you to agree with one or the other side and not both.

Step #2: Planning to Write Choose your position. Which side of the issue or problem are you going to write about? Structure your essay. Figure out what evidence you will include and in what order you will present the evidence. This can take UP TO 5 minutes!!!! Do not exceed 5 minutes on planning.

Step 3: The Introduction Paragraph Lead Thesis (Your position on the topic) 3 Main points you will make to prove your thesis (position) Concluding statement

Step #3: Introduction Paragraph Begin with a lead statement to “hook” your audience into reading your essay Lead statements are: A strong statement Open with an Anecdote (a personal story) Open with a Fact Open with a Question

Step #3: Introduction Paragraph You can give some background information into the topic after the lead. Thesis statement is when you state your position on the topic. A rule of thumb is to attempt to state the position WITHOUT saying “I”, but if you cant do this, go with the “I”. You must give 3 points that prove your position. These 3 points serve as the body of your essay. YOU MUST give a concluding sentence

Step 4: Body Paragraphs You must provide evidence to support the opinion offered in the thesis paragraph. The body should consist of at least three paragraphs. Each paragraph is based on a solid reason to back your thesis statement.

Step #4: Body Paragraphs Ways to BE SPECIFIC Facts - A powerful means of convincing, facts can come from your reading observation, or personal experience. Note: Do not confuse facts with truths. A "truth" is an idea believed by many people, but it cannot be proven. Examples - Examples enhance your meaning and make your ideas concrete. They are the proof.

What goes in the Body paragraphs? Transition Statement, Restate point from thesis Give background if needed Illustrate your point by giving a specific fact or example to make it clearer for your audience CONCLUDE your paragraph by relating your example back to the point you are making and your thesis statement

Step #5: Conclusion A piece of persuasive writing usually ends by summarizing the most important details of the argument and stating once again what the reader is to believe or do. Restate your thesis or focus statement. Summarize the main points: The conclusion enables your reader to recall the main points of your position. In order to do this you can paraphrase the main points of your argument.

Step #5: Conclusion The last sentence should be a call to action: With a Prediction: The conclusion may suggest or predict what the results may or may not be in the situation discussed or in similar situations. With a Question: Closing with a question lets your readers make their own predictions, draw their own conclusions. With Recommendations: A recommendations closing is one that stresses the actions or remedies that should be taken. With a Quotation: Since a quotation may summarize, predict, question, or call for action, you may use a quotation within a conclusion for nearly any kind of paper.