Students use reasons to demonstrate a real validity of controversial ideas when writing a persuasive essay. Basically, argumentative compositions encourage readers to accept a specific stand on a current issue. Convincing papers persuade persons who read to change their thoughts and ideas. In writing, students rely on brainstorming, researching, structuring an entire work in different sections, and proofreading. Moreover, 10 steps on how to write a persuasive essay improve an overall quality, credibility, and applicability of papers. Firstly, preparing several drafts aligns arguments with discussed ideas. Then, meeting rubrics improves overall outcomes during rewriting. However, peer review remains an essential step toward writing better papers. In turn, additional tips cover a persuasive introduction, unbiased opinions, and adequate details, as well as recomendations on what to include and what to avoid in organizing documents. Besides, conclusions show that such compositions must provide sufficient support for debatable topics.
General Aspects
Nowadays, essay writing is a typical task for all students, and learners at various levels of education commonly organize persuasive essays. Basically, they master their skills as a means of providing an opinion on different topics. As such, students develop their arguments to persuade their intended audiences. In this case, an in-depth discussion concerning persuasive writing focuses on its definition, type, and format, as wells as supporting evidence and rebuttal sections. Further on, such compositions must express one’s opinion clearly, while proper knowledge of how to write a persuasive essay can help learners to encourage readers to accept a specific viewpoint. Moreover, such writing skills demonstrate one’s creativity and ability to communicate strong emotions, covering brainstorming, researching, structuring, and proofreading methods. Besides, compelling compositions include a personal connection to a chosen topic. In turn, convincing introductions should contain a summary of main points, opposing ideas, and rebuttals. Successful students include a strong thesis statement to express main arguments provided in their essays. As a result, this article on how to write a persuasive essay still helps to organize persuasive papers correctly.
What Is a Persuasive Essay and Its Purpose
According to its definition, a persuasive essay is a type and form of writing that aims to convince a reader to accept a particular point of view or take a specific action. For example, the main purpose of writing a persuasive essay is not merely to inform or explain but to influence reader’s thoughts or behaviors by presenting a compelling case (Guillain, 2021). In writing, this format of paper is built on strong arguments, evidence, and emotional appeals to persuade an intended audience of an author’s position. Further on, authors achieve this objective by clearly stating their thesis, supporting a central claim with facts, logical reasoning, and examples, and addressing counterarguments to strengthen their stances (Hackett, 2021). Basically, such a composition seeks to sway a target audience’s opinion or motivate them to act in favor of an author’s argument, making it a powerful tool in discussions, debates, and any context where convincing others is essential. Moreover, through careful argumentation and strategic use of language, these papers change people’s minds and drive action (Hackett, 2021). In terms of pages and words, the length of a persuasive essay depends on academic levels, assignment instructions, and fields of study, while general writing guidelines are:
High School
- Length: 1-2 pages
- Word Count: 250-500 words
College (Undergraduate)
- Length: 2-5 pages
- Word Count: 500-1,250 words
University (Advanced Undergraduate)
- Length: 3-8 pages
- Word Count: 750-2,000 words
Master’s Level
- Length: 4-10 pages
- Word Count: 1,000-2,500 words
Ph.D. Level
- Length: 5-12+ pages
- Word Count: 1,250-3,000+ words
Types
Type | Purpose |
---|---|
Editorial | To express opinions on current issues and persuade readers to adopt a particular stance. |
Op-Ed (Opinion Editorial) | To present a strong personal opinion on a topical issue and persuade readers of its validity. |
Speech | To influence an audience’s thoughts, beliefs, or actions through spoken words. |
Advertisement | To persuade potential customers to purchase a product or service by highlighting its benefits. |
Political Campaign | To convince voters to support a candidate, party, or policy during an election. |
Essay | To argue a specific point of view on a topic using logic, evidence, and reasoning. |
Review (Book, Movie, Product) | To evaluate and persuade an intended audience to agree with a writer’s assessment or recommendation. |
Proposal | To convince a reader or audience to accept a plan, project, or course of action. |
Petition | To gather support by persuading people to sign and advocate for a particular cause or change. |
Letter | To influence a prompt action by expressing a strong opinion on an issue. |

Defining Features
Persuasive essays mean a specific type of academic paper. For example, the main aim of writing a this type of composition is to convince readers that a particular opinion is correct, and students should support their topics using valid arguments and making a claim, striving to show their audiences that it is reasonable (Guillain, 2021). Moreover, persuasive writing requires learners to explain their positions in an organized manner. It not only addresses all relevant perspectives but also demonstrates a superiority of an author’s point of view. In turn, an entire development of a persuasive argument requires an unbiased approach to a particular topic (Hackett, 2021). It is because authors provide not only a complete argument but also a comprehensive discussion. Therefore, a persuasive essay can be defined as a piece of writing that works to coerce an intended audience to accept a given position concerning a controversial topic.
Importance
Persuasive essays use reasons to demonstrate a validity of ideas. For instance, a key importance of writing persuasive essays is to encourage readers to accept a particular viewpoint (Humble, 2024). In writing, these compositions must convince people who read to act in a specific way. Basically, a principal hypothesis in such papers relies on a value or a policy:
- approval of specific values or standards;
- disapproval of specific subjects;
- a call for an adoption of a change in beliefs or policies.
Students debate an issue that affects them, society, or country since they know how to write a persuasive essay. For example, outstanding compositions contain a definition of an item and show both sides of an argument (Guillain, 2021). Moreover, writing a good persuasive essay means taking a clear stand on a specific problem, considering a third person, and following formal language for discussion.
When to Use
A persuasive essay is used to advance an individual’s opinion to a target audience through evidence-based writing, which persuades readers of its objectivity. For example, the 5 basic steps in writing a persuasive essay are choosing a position, researching and gathering evidence, outlining a paper, organizing a draft, and revising for clarity and impact (Hackett, 2021). In particular, there are two main sections in a body of such a paper: supporting evidence and rebuttal. Each of these sections plays a vital role in convincing an intended audience of a validity of an argument. Thus, this type of essay is essential because it prepares young minds for a development of sophisticated objective arguments that contribute positively to academia.
Evidence Section
A segment of a body in a persuasive essay is designed to discuss evidence supporting an author’s main argument. For example, a significant portion of body paragraphs contains evidence from experts acquired during research on an issue (Corneille et al., 2023). In this case, a crucial aspect of a persuasive speech is a provision of facts that have been established through studies with irreproachable methodologies. Moreover, detailed explanations must support the evidence. In writing, these aspects demonstrate logical reasoning and a clear link to a thesis statement. Hence, a particular choice of evidence used to support an author’s central claim has a significant impact on an essay’s overall persuasion effect.
Rebuttal Part
Students include a rebuttal section within a body of a persuasive essay. In particular, this section is equally important because it allows authors to explain some flaws of other competing lines of thought. For example, a rebuttal portion of a persuasive essay contributes to a coercion effect (Humble, 2024). Moreover, it shows an audience that authors have considered alternative opinions and found them to be deficient. Hence, an effective essay must display a high level of objectivity in identifying potential shortcomings of opposing opinions.
Other Features
Persuasive essays are a stepping stone toward objective scientific arguments. For example, a consistent practice of skills in a persuasive essay develops an ability to argue objectively by integrating reasons, evidence, and logic (Guillain, 2021). In this case, objective arguments are a valid foundation of a scientific language of disagreement, which is independent of personal biases. Consequently, such works prepare learners for participation in an academic sphere through an entire contribution of new arguments or refuting existing arguments.
Format
Section | Content |
---|---|
Title | Write a concise, unique, and compelling title that reflects a main position, argument, or focus of a persuasive essay. |
Introduction | Hook: Introduce a compelling statement, question, or quote to grab a reader’s attention. |
Background Information: Present a brief context on a chosen topic to set a stage for an argument. | |
Thesis Statement: Develop a clear, concise statement of a main argument or position. | |
Body Paragraph 1 | Topic Sentence: Introduce a first main idea of a first body paragraph, supporting a central thesis. |
Evidence: Provide facts, examples, statistics, or quotes that support a topic sentence. | |
Explanation: Make an analysis and interpretation of the evidence, showing its relevance. | |
Concluding Sentence: Summarize an entire paragraph and transition to a next point. | |
Body Paragraph 2 | Topic Sentence: Introduce a second main idea of a second body paragraph, supporting a central thesis. |
Evidence: Provide facts, examples, statistics, or quotes that support a topic sentence. | |
Explanation: Make an analysis and interpretation of the evidence, showing its relevance. | |
Concluding Sentence: Summarize an entire paragraph and transition to a next point. | |
Body Paragraph 3 | Topic Sentence: Introduce a third main idea of a third body paragraph, supporting a central thesis. |
Evidence: Provide facts, examples, statistics, or quotes that support a topic sentence. | |
Explanation: Make an analysis and interpretation of the evidence, showing its relevance. | |
Concluding Sentence: Summarize an entire paragraph and transition to a next point. | |
Body Paragraphs 4+ | Use and follow the structure presented above for writing any other body paragraph. |
Counterargument | Acknowledgment: Recognize a potential opposing viewpoint. |
Refutation: Provide evidence or reasoning to refute a counterargument. | |
Reinforcement: Reiterate a strength of an original thesis despite an opposition. | |
Refutation | Refute Counterarguments: Directly address and disprove opposing arguments with evidence and reasoning. |
Strengthen Original Argument: Reaffirm an original thesis by showing how counterarguments are flawed or less compelling. | |
Conclusion | Restatement of Thesis: Rephrase a central thesis statement to reinforce an argument. |
Summary of Points: Briefly review main arguments presented in a persuasive essay. | |
Call to Action: Encourage readers to adopt a paper’s position or take specific action. | |
Closing Statement: A final thought or statement that leaves a lasting impression. | |
List of References | Citations: Include a list of all sources cited in a persuasive essay, formatted according to a required style (e.g., APA, MLA, Harvard, or Chicago/Turabian). |
Note: Some writing sections of a persuasive essay can be added, deleted, or combined with each other, depending on specific courses, instructor requirements, and complexities of topics. For example, a standard persuasive essay format is a structured outline that organizes a paper into key sections — introduction, body paragraphs, counterarguments, refutations, and conclusion — ensuring a clear and logical presentation of a central claim (Humble, 2024). Basically, persuasive writing is a type and form of writing that aims to convince other people to accept a particular viewpoint or take a specific action through logical arguments, emotional appeals, and credible evidence. Further on, a persuasive definition form is a rhetorical strategy where a word or concept is redefined in a way that supports a person’s argument or viewpoint (Guillain, 2021). In this case, an example of persuasive writing is a newspaper editorial arguing for stricter environmental regulations to combat climate change. Moreover, different types of persuasive writing include advertisements, opinion editorials, political speeches, argumentative papers, and product reviews (Hackett, 2021). In turn, a rebuttal is a response that refutes or counters an opposing argument or claim in a debate or discussion. As such, writing persuasive essays is important because this activity develops critical thinking, effective communication skills, and an ability to influence other people through logical reasoning and evidence-based arguments (Crossley et al., 2022). Finally, to start a persuasive essay, people begin with a compelling hook that grabs a reader’s attention, followed by background information on a chosen topic and a clear thesis statement outlining a main argument.
Criteria
Knowledge
Persuasive essays express one’s opinion clearly. For example, the 5 principal tips for persuasive essays are to start with a strong thesis, use solid evidence, address counterarguments, employ persuasive language, and conclude with a compelling call to action (Hackett, 2021). Therefore, the following points are essential in preparing persuasive essays:
- stating a specific problem, opinion, and solution clearly;
- including sufficient evidence and details to support opinions;
- presenting and summarizing essential issues in introduction and conclusion parts.
Thinking
Persuasive essays demonstrate one’s creativity and express strong emotions. For example, these compositions contain logical and reasonable ideas organized in a specific sequence (Humble, 2024). Besides, students must connect ideas with covered opinions. In turn, the following points are essential for demonstrating higher thinking abilities:
- supporting ideas with details and reasons;
- presenting personal reasons for supporting arguments;
- demonstrating a high level of understanding of essential concepts from secondary sources.
Communication
Persuasive essays rely on explicit expressions and logical organization of ideas. For example, a good persuasive essay effectively combines a clear and compelling thesis, strong evidence, logical reasoning, and argumentative language to convincingly argue a specific point of view (Guillain, 2021). As such, one must:
- present opinions clearly;
- demonstrate formal voice, style, and tone;
- use correct spelling, grammar, and punctuation;
- implement fluent sentences and paragraphs when organizing arguments or ideas.
Application
If students understand how to write a persuasive essay, they include personal connections to their topics. Basically, examples of persuasive essays include argumentative papers on climate change, opinion pieces advocating for policy reform, and speeches encouraging community action (Hackett, 2021). Moreover, students must:
- use information from external sources to support opinions;
- demonstrate an understanding of an actual importance of a presented topic.
Steps on How to Write a Good Persuasive Essay
Step 1: Brainstorming
Students brainstorm to generate ideas that support assigned themes. For example, a persuasive essay is a type and form of writing that aims to convince a reader to accept a particular viewpoint or take action, using examples, such as argumentative papers on social issues, opinion editorials, and speeches advocating for change (Humble, 2024). In this case, students can use several ways of creating necessary concepts for supporting their topics:
- Free writing – One writes quickly without stopping, editing, and self-correcting. An entire process makes students aware of what they already know, think, and feel about essay topics.
- Subject Tree – Scholars must note down related ideas and connect them with a main topic. For example, students use a tree structure to organize thoughts that support main ideas presented.
- List – This process involves listing ideas that support a topic.
- Clustering – Such a step involves drawing a circle that contains a main topic. Basically, people list other ideas related to a concept on the ring’s sides.
- Outline – Learners create a composition framework, which includes main points. In turn, this process consists of breaking down a main topic into sub-points.
Examples of prompts:
- Reimagining the Role of Technology in Enhancing Sports Performance
- Childhood Vaccinations and Their Importance in Society
- Exploring the Impact of Climate Change on Global Health
- Revolutionizing Patient Care Through Telemedicine
- Addressing Gender Inequality in Sports: The Path Forward
- Digital Learning Platforms Versus Traditional Classroom Teaching
- Overcoming Gender Stereotypes in Sports
- Increasing Renewable Energy Usage Can Combat Climate Change
- School Cafeterias Should Serve Healthier Options
- Social Media Platforms Must Enforce Anti-Bullying Policies
- Television Advertising Targeted at Children Should Be Restricted
- Higher Education Should Be Affordable for All
- Public Transportation Systems Need Major Upgrades
- Remote Work Benefits Both Employees and Employers
- Community Service Should Be Integrated into High School Curriculums
- Exercise Should Be a Daily Requirement in Schools
- Technology in Classrooms Enhances Learning Experiences
- Arts Funding is Crucial for Cultural Development
- Organic Farming Should Be Encouraged Over Conventional Methods
- Governments Must Act Swiftly on Cybersecurity Threats
- Animal Adoption Should Be Promoted Over Buying Pets
- Reducing Plastic Use Can Save Marine Life
- Mental Health Resources Need More Funding
- Space Exploration Advances Scientific Knowledge
- Public Speaking Skills Should Be Taught Early
- Food Waste Needs to Be Minimized in Households
- Tax Incentives for Green Buildings Benefit Communities
Step 2: Researching
Researching involves gathering information from libraries or other credible sources. For example, students may use the Internet as a suitable source of credible information (Guillain, 2021). In turn, acceptable sources include reference works, books, and scholarly articles. However, people should observe the following points:
- assessing a site for timeliness and reputability;
- considering a website’s purpose;
- evaluating a website’s reliability and an author’s credibility;
- gathering all the source information and covering credentials during citing;
- avoiding all forms of plagiarism during writing.
Step 3. Developing a Thesis Statement
A thesis statement links ideas presented in an entire composition. For example, to write a persuasive essay, people clearly state their position in a thesis, support this stance with logical arguments and evidence, address counterarguments, refute them, and conclude with a strong summary and call to action (Hackett, 2021). In writing, a strong thesis statement contains a claim and supporting details. As such, effective thesis statements:
- make an assertion and take a stance;
- generalize information;
- do not include facts;
- contain debatable information;
- appear as a last sentence in an introduction paragraph.
Supporting details reinforce and sustain a main argument. In particular, different organizational methods for writing a persuasive essay make academic papers compelling. For example, scholars use problem-solution, cause-effect, and statement-of-reason organization writing techniques (Humble, 2024). Moreover, strong thesis statements combine claims and supporting details in one sentence. In turn, one may change a composition’s direction based on a chosen pattern for organizing the evidence. In turn, some examples of sentence starters for beginning a persuasive essay are:
- As a modern world continues to develop and change, a controversial issue of [topic] has emerged as a significant challenge that cannot be overlooked, demanding both attention and action.
- In recent years, [topic] has sparked widespread debate, and it has become increasingly clear that addressing this critical issue is important for a well-being of society.
- In a future where [negative scenario related to a topic], this world will be not only a hypothetical situation but also a reality if people fail to confront [topic] today.
- Throughout history, [topic] has played a pivotal role in shaping a human world, and, now, it is imperative that people recognize its impact and take decisive action.
- A growing concern surrounding [topic] can result in adverse consequences due to inaction that can have long-lasting implications for [specific group or society as a whole].
- While some individuals may dismiss a real importance of [topic], the evidence suggests otherwise, revealing that this issue is directly connected to a future of [related field or issue].
- In a world where [related issue] dominates headlines, it is easy to overlook [topic], yet doing so would be a grave mistake.
- Although there are differing opinions on [topic], a closer examination reveals that key benefits of addressing this issue far outweigh any potential drawbacks.
- As people continue to face unprecedented challenges in [related field], a principal role of [topic] has become increasingly critical, making it essential for them to take a stand.
- It is often said that [common saying related to a topic], and, when it comes to [topic], this passage rings especially true, highlighting an urgent need for a thoughtful and deliberate response.
Step 4: Writing a Good Introduction
An introduction section contains a composition’s most general information. For example, to write a strong introduction in a persuasive essay, people begin with a hook to grab attention, provide background on a chosen topic, and end with a clear thesis statement that outlines their main argument (Guillain, 2021). Basically, they set a paper’s road map in an opening paragraph. In turn, important points include:
- Definition – An introduction paragraph identifies, defines, and describes presented topics. In writing, students describe main ideas of their papers.
- Relevance – A first section shows an importance, concept, and theme of a composition. Compelling opening paragraphs explain how a given theme impacts society.
- Thesis Statement – Students put athesis statement as a last sentence in a composition.
Step 5. Writing Body Paragraphs
A body section contains adequate details that support main arguments. For example, compelling papers address each supporting aspect in a separate and fully developed section (Hackett, 2021). Moreover, including necessary evidence leads to compelling papers. In this case, argumentative works include:
- topic sentence in every paragraph;
- topic sentence that summarizes supporting details;
- every paragraph supports a single idea.
Step 6: Writing Opposing Arguments
Persuasive essays provide opposing views. For example, students state and explain different concepts in their texts (Humble, 2024). As a result, specific approaches show how a person with conflicting thoughts may clash with main arguments.
Step 7: Writing Rebuttal Claims
People must provide an application that opposes counterclaims. For example, to write a rebuttal paragraph, people acknowledge an opposing argument, refute it with evidence, reasoning, and explanation, and reinforce a strength of their original position (Guillain, 2021). In writing, effective rebuttals show some weaknesses in contrasting arguments. Sometimes, one may agree with some concepts in refutations. Moreover, compelling compositions indicate student’s thoughts on potential contradictions.
Step 8: Writing a Conclusion
A conclusion section closes a persuasive essay. For example, scholars rewrite a thesis statement and reword it differently (Hackett, 2021). Basically, closing paragraphs reiterate and summarize main points of compositions. In writing, students should observe the following points:
- Relevance – Conclusions repeat an importance of a topic;
- Review – Closing elements reiterates key points discussed in a body part;
- Summary – A last item in a persuasive essay recaps main points.
Step 9: Rewriting
Students should rewrite first drafts and effect necessary changes that make final papers readable. For example, a standard structure of a persuasive essay includes an introduction paragraph with a thesis statement sentence, body paragraphs presenting arguments and evidence, a section addressing counterarguments, and a conclusion paragraph that reinforces a central claim and calls to action (Humble, 2024). Basically, scholars follow the following points:
- Learners rewrite first drafts and incorporate appropriate modifications. In this case, an entire process makes papers suitable for a target audience.
- Rewriting papers several times ensures compositions meet a required standard on how to write a persuasive essay correctly.
- Rubrics play an essential role in determining an overall effectiveness of achieving significant concepts in essays.
- Second and subsequent drafts ensure papers meet required academic and writing standards.
Step 10: Proofreading and Editing
Proofreading papers comes as a last step on how to write a persuasive essay, determining an overall quality. In particular, students read essays several times and identifies significant ideas. For example, primary goals include identifying common grammatical mistakes and other syntax errors (Guillain, 2021). In this case, identifying spelling mistakes that lower a paper’s quality leads to better outcomes from readers. Other important concepts include a removal of grammatical errors that may affect an overall readability of a persuasive essay.
Asking for a Peer Review
Peers play a significant role when proofreading written works. Basically, authors of documents should ask scholars to read written essays for identifying hidden mistakes. For example, an analysis of essays improves an overall outcomes of a target audience (Ciullo et al., 2019). Furthermore, peer evaluation enhances a logical flow of information in a whole composition. In turn, embracing peers for proofreading or editing written works improves an overall quality.
Complete Persuasive Essay Example
What to Include
Element | Description |
---|---|
Statistics | Numerical data that provides concrete evidence to support a central argument, making it more credible. |
Expert Opinions | Quotes or insights from recognized authorities or professionals that lend credibility to writing. |
Historical Examples | Past events or situations that illustrate and reinforce an argument, showing its relevance over time. |
Case Studies | Detailed, real-life examples that provide in-depth evidence and illustrate an argument effectively. |
Personal Experience | Short, personal stories or examples that make writing more relatable and engaging for readers. |
Analogies | Comparisons that help explain or clarify an argument by relating it to something familiar. |
Rhetorical Questions | Questions posed to provoke thought rather than elicit an answer, emphasizing an argument’s point. |
Repetition | Deliberate repetition of key phrases or words to reinforce a message and make it more memorable. |
Parallelism | A particular use of similar grammatical structures in writing to create a sense of rhythm and reinforce a key idea. |
Ethos | Establishing an author’s credibility or ethical appeal to persuade an intended audience. |
Pathos | Appealing to audience’s emotions to evoke sympathy, anger, or motivation, strengthening an overall writing. |
Logos | Using logical reasoning and evidence to build a rational argument that appeals to a target audience’s intellect. |
Comparative Data | Information comparing different scenarios or cases to highlight some benefits or drawbacks of each. |
Hypothetical Scenarios | Imagined situations that demonstrate possible outcomes or consequences, helping to persuade readers. |
Surveys or Polls | Data reflecting public opinion on a specific topic, adding weight to writing by showing widespread support. |
Recommendations
Introduction
Persuasive essays contain compelling opening paragraphs, leading to a good relevance and readability of papers. For example, to make a persuasive essay, people start with a clear thesis, support a central claim with strong evidence and logical arguments, address counterarguments, and conclude with a compelling summary and call to action (Hackett, 2021). Basically, if scholars are familiar with basic rules for writing a correct persuasive essay, they provide a summary of main points, opposing ideas, and rebuttals. In turn, successful authors include a strong thesis statement to express their main arguments. Besides, a debatable thesis statement works best for persuasive essays.
Opinion
Outstanding students provide compelling ideas for supporting core arguments. For example, the 7 tips for persuasive essays are to craft a strong thesis, research thoroughly, know a target audience, use argumentative language, address counterarguments, organize logically, and conclude with impact (Humble, 2024). In writing, unbiased views and judgments influence reader’s thoughts on a specific topic. Moreover, well-developed arguments enhance an overall quality of essays.
Details
Good authors present adequate information that supports their main arguments, counterarguments, and refutations. Basically, some examples of persuasive essays include a student’s paper arguing for school uniform policies, an editorial promoting renewable energy adoption, and an article advocating for animal rights legislation (Guillain, 2021). As such, real-life examples make a persuasive essay compelling and useful.
Common Mistakes
- Lack of a Clear Thesis Statement: Without writing a strong, specific thesis, a persuasive essay lacks direction and focus.
- Weak or Insufficient Evidence: Failing to provide strong supporting evidence undermines an overall credibility of a central argument.
- Ignoring Counterarguments: Not addressing opposing views weakens an argument by making writing appear one-sided.
- Over-Reliance on Emotional Appeals: Using too much emotion without factual support can make an argument less convincing.
- Vague or General Statements: Broad, unclear statements fail to persuade because they lack specificity and precision.
- Inconsistent Argumentation: Jumping between unrelated points can confuse readers and dilute an overall argument.
- Poor Organization and Structure: Disorganized writing makes it difficult for readers to follow and understand an argument.
- Using Weak or Passive Language: Passive or weak phrasing reduces a real impact and persuasiveness of an argument.
- Failing to Revise and Proofread: Errors in writing, grammar, spelling, and punctuation can distract from a message and reduce credibility.
- Overuse of Jargon or Complex Language: Using too much technical language or complicated terms can alienate readers and obscure an argument.
Summing Up
Persuasive essays use reasons when demonstrating an overall validity of controversial ideas. Basically, the 5 main parts of a persuasive essay are an introduction, thesis statement sentence, body paragraphs with supporting arguments, counterarguments with refutation, and conclusion. In writing, learners use these compositions to encourage readers to accept a specific viewpoint. Further on, compelling papers convince persons who read to act in a particular way. Moreover, students rely on brainstorming, researching, structuring an entire work in different sections, and proofreading a final document. In turn, basic 10 steps on how to write such an essay improve an overall quality, credibility, and applicability of an entire paper. Firstly, preparing several drafts aligns arguments with ideas. Secondly, rubrics improve overall outcomes during rewriting. Thirdly, peer reviewing remains an essential step toward writing better papers. Finally, additional tips include using a persuasive introduction, unbiased opinions, and adequate details.
References
Ciullo, S., Mason, L. H., & Judd, L. (2019). Persuasive quick-writing about text: Intervention for students with learning disabilities. Behavior Modification, 45(1), 122–146. https://doi.org/10.1177/0145445519882894
Corneille, O., Havemann, J., Henderson, E. L., IJzerman, H., Hussey, I., Orban de Xivry, J.-J., Jussim, L., Holmes, N. P., Pilacinski, A., Beffara, B., Carroll, H., Outa, N. O., Lush, P., & Lotter, L. D. (2023). Beware ‘persuasive communication devices’ when writing and reading scientific articles. eLife, 12, 1–6. https://doi.org/10.7554/elife.88654
Crossley, S. A., Baffour, P., Tian, Y., Picou, A., Benner, M., & Boser, U. (2022). The persuasive essays for rating, selecting, and understanding argumentative and discourse elements (persuade) corpus 1.0. Assessing Writing, 54, 1–6. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.asw.2022.100667
Guillain, C. (2021). What is persuasive writing. Heinemann Raintree.
Hackett, U. (2021). Brilliant essays. Red Globe Press.
Humble, R. K. (2024). The humble argument: A readable introduction to argument and the college essay. Chemeketa Press.