Introduction to Persuasive Writing

Propaganda Authors sometimes use techniques to persuade you to act a certain way based on emotions.

Bandwagon Effect A technique that suggests that most people support or oppose an issue.

Peer Pressure When an author tries to convince you that “everybody” is thinking or doing what the author says, and if the reader does not agree he will lose respect.

Repetition When an author tries to make an idea memorable even if it is not supported by clear reasoning.

Transfer When an author stirs the reader’s feelings about one then and transfers those feelings to something else.

Loaded Words Writers use these words with highly emotional or controversial topics to “press our buttons”.

Name-calling When a writer makes accusations that are not supported by facts.

Stereotyping When a writer uses an unfair image of a group to make a point that isn’t true.

Snobbery A technique used by a writer to make people think they are better than others by acting a certain way.

“Ordinary Folks” A technique used by writers to connect itself with simple values and down-to-earth people.

Glittering Generalities When a writer uses patriotic, attractive, or catchy words that don’t really say anything.

Scientific Claim When the writer attempts to convince the reader that a product or idea is accurate or approved.

Testimonial A technique used by a writer that tells you to base your decision on what someone else thinks.

Scare Tactics A technique that communicates possible negative effects with strong and unsupported images that make people act out of fear.

Guilt by Association A technique that implies that if your friend did something bad, then you are probably guilty, too.

Appeal to Patriotism A technique that implies that a person may or may not be a truly dedicated citizen.