Improve your Writing (Elements of Persuasion)

We find this type of writing everywhere. In newspapers, magazines, blogs and even advertising. A persuasive paper is generally focused on one side of a subject or topic and uses persuasive sentences to get you to agree.

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As usual, it starts with a thesis and the body of the paper has all the meaty evidence to support the thesis. The body also addresses opposing views. The conclusion will be a statement to address your thesis using what has been stated in the body of the paper.

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Thesis statements

The thesis statement, states what you believe in, or what side of the argument you will be taking. Your thesis statement will show the reader how much effort you have put into the paper, and if you are truly interested in the topic you chose. This reflects in your paper as a simple retelling of facts, instead of that persuasive connecting with your reader.

Generally you will want to put your thesis in the first or second paragraph, this all depends on your introduction.

Topic Sentences

These are quite straight forward, even the name tells you what they are. The tie directly back to your thesis statement and show exactly what will be in the next paragraph and how the whole paragraph relates to the topic.

These also help your reader to know exactly what they can expect in the next paragraph. These sentences should always be in the first or second sentence of the paragraph. If you do put is somewhere else make sure its not at, or near the end of the paragraph.

Opposing Arguments

When writing about your thesis and your side you have chosen, it is always a great idea to present and acknowledge that there are other opposing points. This will show your reader you really understand your topic and by presenting the fairly this will increase your credibility.

When using opposing arguments, make sure you can argue against them and persuade the reader that your argument is right. Don't us any opposing points that can destroy your thesis or that you can not argue against. Always remember that you are persuading them to believe your point.

Conclusion

This is usually our last few paragraphs and should never have any new information in them. Also don't always state "in conclusion", if it is clear to the reader that you are concluding then this doesn't have to be used. A great idea is to state why the topic is important and share your concluding thoughts.

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*Just on a little side note for self improvement. I will be doing pushups, situps and squats for the amount of $$$ I earn on this post and will give a short feedback every day at the end of each post. This will be split in equally between all 3. Any not done will carry onto the next day. *