The main aim of writing a persuasive essay is to convince and persuade the reader into believing something. Writers can do this by use of emotional appeal and logical arguments. While there is no correct way of writing these essays, below are some points to learn as you write a persuasive essay.
Introductory Paragraphs
An opening paragraph comes first in a persuasive essay. An introductory paragraph should have three main parts. That is an attention catcher, thesis, and the preview. An introductory paragraph is the most important in an essay because it has a big impact on a reader. Every first section needs to start with an attention catcher.
Attention Catchers
An attention catcher is supposed to be the first sentence in a persuasive essay. It is the first opportunity for a writer to make an impression on a reader. Good attention catchers are angled in a position that pushes the reader immediately towards the writer’s position.
Here are some points worth noting when it comes to attention catching techniques in persuasive essays. They will be useful to you as you start writing:
- Asking questions. This is a very good technique since you can use it at any time on any topic. Moreover, it has strong rhetorical effects on readers since people always think about questions asked because there are expected answers. If you ask questions in your paper, readers often consider your ideas. Therefore, you should take your time to make a good attention catcher that begins persuading the audience immediately.
- Quotation. While you may not have time to get quotes for a standardized test or a timed essay, starting off your article with an appropriate quote is classy. However, you have to make sure that the quote you are using is connected to the topic in an identifiable way.
- Using an anecdote. This is a short story. Beginning an essay with an anecdote that is related to the topic is a great way to get the attention of a reader. It demonstrates your ability to do descriptive writing.
- Startling statistic or fact. Using a startling statistic or fact is a good way of catching the attention of a reader. However, avoid fabricating statistics or facts when some sources are not available.
- Imaginative scenario. Immerse your readers completely by using descriptive writing and develop creative scenes.
- Combination. You can find yourself using two or more of these points, and it is okay. You can start with an imaginative scenario and end by using a question or vice-versa. When you are writing, your limitations come from your imagination, so it is wise to stretch it to the limits.
Persuasive writing will end by summarizing important details in the argument and state again and again what the reader should believe. No matter the approach you choose to use, always keep in mind your parting words are very important to a reader as these will have a great impact on them. Make sure that you also dedicate enough time for closing your essay.
