Persuasive Essay – Elements, Structure and Basic Steps to Write

Persuasive Essay – Writers persuade the readers to accept his/her opinion or position regarding the main argument.

Modes of Persuasion or three elements of a persuasive essay

• Ethos – the Greek word for ‘character’ or ‘spirit’ refers to how the authors present themselves. Writers show their credibility to the readers through their skills and goodwill to persuade a reader.
• Logos – the Greek word for ‘logic’ or ‘rationale’ refers to the use of data, facts, and evidence by writers to persuade readers.
• Pathos – the Greek word for ‘suffering’ or ‘experience’ refers to evoking emotions in readers to persuade them.

Structure (format) of a persuasive essay:

Heading or Title – Catchy to draw the attention of readers

– Not more than five to six words

Tips To Write Catchy Titles:

• Use numbers
• Appealing adjectives to connect emotionally with readers.
• A clear indication to what readers will gain.
• Use trigger words – Why, How, When
• Example –If the topic is ‘bathing cats at home’- ‘Why I love Bathing Cats’/ ‘10 Unbelievable Ways of Bathing Cats’

Introduction

• Hook – The first sentence should capture readers’ interest with context-based anecdotes, quotations, or statistical data.
• Background – Familiarize readers with the subject or the main argument.
• Thesis statement – A simple, clear, and concise statement about the writer’s opinion/position on the argument. It defines a path that the writer will follow going ahead.
• Example of thesis statement – Indonesians should add exercise to their morning routine not only to keep a check on their weight but also to reduce the risk of hypertension.

Body Paragraphs:

• Three body paragraphs. One point per paragraph that supports the argument. It brings the readers closer to accepting the writer’s position.
• Topic sentence – It is the first sentence of a body paragraph. Reflects the main idea or the central point. It links back to support the thesis statement.
• Evidence – Information from credible sources/experts in the form of examples (testimony), facts, and statistical data. Evidence helps to build the position of the argument stronger.
• Analysis and Interpretation – Personal analysis and interpretation based on the evidence links the essay coherently.

Conclusion:

Sum up the main points of the writer’s argument briefly in a different way. It shouldn’t be a summary of the introduction.

• The writer could conclude with a thought-provoking question for readers or could use imperative language to call for action.

Basic steps to writing a persuasive essay:

• Select the topic wisely – Keep in mind the appealing factor of it – emotionally or logically. Easy access to information for research.
• Know your readers
• Who are you trying to persuade? – Age group, personality traits. Example – Conservative and middle-aged
• How will the chosen topic be relevant to them?
• Generally, what views or opinions do they hold about the topic?
• Choose a clear position on the argument or side of the argument
• Research both sides of the argument – It helps to develop strong supporting evidence. Also, to counter the opposing side of the argument.
• Outline the complete essay:

• Write the title and introduction
• Write the body paragraphs
• End the essay with an impactful conclusion
• Proofread and edit wherever needed