argument persuasive essay examples

Persuasive Essay Guide

Persuasive Essay Examples

30+ Free Persuasive Essay Examples To Get You Started

Published on: Jul 25, 2018

Last updated on: Oct 16, 2023

Persuasive Essay Examples For Students

A persuasive essay aims to convince the reader of the author’s point of view.

To find the right path for your essay, it's helpful to go through some examples. Similarly, good essay examples also help to avoid any potential pitfalls and offer clear information to the readers to adopt.

Here are some persuasive essay examples pdf:

3rd-grade Persuasive Essay Example

4th-grade Persuasive Essay Example

Persuasive Essay Example 5th-grade pdf

Persuasive Essay Examples for 6th Grade pdf

7th-grade Persuasive Essay Example

8th-grade Persuasive Essay Example

Persuasive Essay Examples Grade 10

11th-grade Persuasive Essay Example

Persuasive Writing Example For Kids

Persuasive Essay Examples High School

The following are good persuasive essay examples for high school. Having a look at them will help you understand better.

High-school Persuasive Essay Example

Examples of Persuasive Essay in Everyday Life

Persuasive Essay Examples for Middle School

Check out these persuasive essay examples for middle school to get a comprehensive idea of the format structure.

Persuasive Essay Examples Middle School

Short Persuasive Essay Example

Persuasive Essay Examples for College Students

Essay writing at the college level becomes more difficult and complicated. We have provided you with top-notch college persuasive and argumentative essay examples here.

Read them to understand the essay writing process easily.

Persuasive Essay Examples College

Higher English Persuasive Essay Example

Persuasive Essay About Smoking

Argumentative and Persuasive Examples

Persuasive Essay Examples For University

It becomes even more challenging to draft a perfect essay at the university level. Have a look at the below examples of a persuasive essay to get an idea of writing one.

University Persuasive Essay Example

5 Paragraph Persuasive Essay Example

Persuasive Essay Examples for Different Formats

A persuasive essay can be written in several formats. For instance, you can write the usual 5-paragraph essay, or even something longer or shorter.

Below are a few sample essays in various common formats.

Persuasive Essay Examples 5 Paragraph

Persuasive Essay Examples 3 Paragraph

Short Persuasive Essay Examples

These examples tell you how to remain convincing and persuasive regardless of the essay format you use.

Persuasive Essay Outline Examples

Creating an impressive outline is the most important step for writing a persuasive essay. It helps to organize thoughts and make the writing process easier.

A standard outline consists of the following sections.

Introduction
Body Paragraphs

Have a look at the following persuasive essay outline template examples.

Persuasive Essay Outline

Persuasive Essay Template

Persuasive Essay Format Example

A persuasive essay outline is bound to follow a specific format and structure. The main elements of a persuasive essay format are as follows.

Font: Times New Roman, Georgia, or Arial
Font Size: 16pt for the headlines and 12pt for the rest of the text
Alignment: Justified
Spacing: Double spacing
Word Count: It usually contains 500 to 2000 words

How to Write A Persuasive Essay With Examples

Planning an essay before starting writing is essential to produce an organized and structured writing piece. So, it is better to understand the concept beforehand to impress your instructor.

The below example will show a good starting to an essay.

A Good Start for a Persuasive Essay - Short Example

How to Start a Persuasive Essay Examples

The introduction is the first part of an essay and your first chance to grab the reader's attention. It should clearly state the essay's purpose and give the reader a clear idea of what to expect.

A compelling persuasive essay introduction must have the following elements.

Hook statement + topic
A strong thesis statement
Your arguments

Here are some examples of persuasive essay introductions to help you make a compelling start:

Introduction Persuasive Essay Example

Persuasive Essay Thesis Statement Examples

Persuasive Essay Hook Examples

How to End a Persuasive Essay Examples

Just like the introduction, the conclusion of the persuasive essay is equally important. It is considered as the last impression of your writing piece to the audience.

A good conclusion paragraph must include the following aspects.

Restate the thesis statement or hypothesis
Summarize the key arguments
Avoid being obvious
Include a call to action

Have a look at the document to explore the sample conclusions of a persuasive essay.

Conclusion Persuasive Essay Examples

Catchy Persuasive Essay Topics

Now that you have read some good examples, it's time to write your own persuasive essay.

But what should you write about? You can write persuasive essays about any topic, from business and online education to controversial topics like abortion , gun control , and more.

Here is a list of ten persuasive essay topics that you can use to grab your reader's attention and make them think:

Should the government increase taxes to fund public health initiatives?
Is the current education system effective in preparing students for college and the workplace?
Should there be tighter gun control laws?
Should schools have uniforms or a dress code?
Are standardized tests an accurate measure of student performance?
Should students be required to take physical education courses?
Is undocumented immigration a legitimate cause for concern in the United States?
Is affirmative action still necessary in today’s society?
How much, if any, regulation should there be on technology companies?
Is the death penalty an appropriate form of punishment for serious crimes?

Check out two examples on similar topics:

Political Persuasive Essay Examples

Persuasive Essay Examples About Life

Need more topic ideas? Check out our extensive list of unique persuasive essay topics and get started!

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Purdue Online Writing Lab Purdue OWL® College of Liberal Arts

Argumentative Essays

Welcome to the Purdue OWL

This page is brought to you by the OWL at Purdue University. When printing this page, you must include the entire legal notice.

Copyright ©1995-2018 by The Writing Lab & The OWL at Purdue and Purdue University. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, reproduced, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed without permission. Use of this site constitutes acceptance of our terms and conditions of fair use.

The Modes of Discourse—Exposition, Description, Narration, Argumentation (EDNA)—are common paper assignments you may encounter in your writing classes. Although these genres have been criticized by some composition scholars, the Purdue OWL recognizes the wide spread use of these approaches and students’ need to understand and produce them.

What is an argumentative essay?

The argumentative essay is a genre of writing that requires the student to investigate a topic; collect, generate, and evaluate evidence; and establish a position on the topic in a concise manner.

Please note : Some confusion may occur between the argumentative essay and the expository essay. These two genres are similar, but the argumentative essay differs from the expository essay in the amount of pre-writing (invention) and research involved. The argumentative essay is commonly assigned as a capstone or final project in first year writing or advanced composition courses and involves lengthy, detailed research. Expository essays involve less research and are shorter in length. Expository essays are often used for in-class writing exercises or tests, such as the GED or GRE.

Argumentative essay assignments generally call for extensive research of literature or previously published material. Argumentative assignments may also require empirical research where the student collects data through interviews, surveys, observations, or experiments. Detailed research allows the student to learn about the topic and to understand different points of view regarding the topic so that she/he may choose a position and support it with the evidence collected during research. Regardless of the amount or type of research involved, argumentative essays must establish a clear thesis and follow sound reasoning.

The structure of the argumentative essay is held together by the following.

A clear, concise, and defined thesis statement that occurs in the first paragraph of the essay.

In the first paragraph of an argument essay, students should set the context by reviewing the topic in a general way. Next the author should explain why the topic is important ( exigence ) or why readers should care about the issue. Lastly, students should present the thesis statement. It is essential that this thesis statement be appropriately narrowed to follow the guidelines set forth in the assignment. If the student does not master this portion of the essay, it will be quite difficult to compose an effective or persuasive essay.

Clear and logical transitions between the introduction, body, and conclusion.

Transitions are the mortar that holds the foundation of the essay together. Without logical progression of thought, the reader is unable to follow the essay’s argument, and the structure will collapse. Transitions should wrap up the idea from the previous section and introduce the idea that is to follow in the next section.

Body paragraphs that include evidential support.

Each paragraph should be limited to the discussion of one general idea. This will allow for clarity and direction throughout the essay. In addition, such conciseness creates an ease of readability for one’s audience. It is important to note that each paragraph in the body of the essay must have some logical connection to the thesis statement in the opening paragraph. Some paragraphs will directly support the thesis statement with evidence collected during research. It is also important to explain how and why the evidence supports the thesis ( warrant ).

However, argumentative essays should also consider and explain differing points of view regarding the topic. Depending on the length of the assignment, students should dedicate one or two paragraphs of an argumentative essay to discussing conflicting opinions on the topic. Rather than explaining how these differing opinions are wrong outright, students should note how opinions that do not align with their thesis might not be well informed or how they might be out of date.

Evidential support (whether factual, logical, statistical, or anecdotal).

The argumentative essay requires well-researched, accurate, detailed, and current information to support the thesis statement and consider other points of view. Some factual, logical, statistical, or anecdotal evidence should support the thesis. However, students must consider multiple points of view when collecting evidence. As noted in the paragraph above, a successful and well-rounded argumentative essay will also discuss opinions not aligning with the thesis. It is unethical to exclude evidence that may not support the thesis. It is not the student’s job to point out how other positions are wrong outright, but rather to explain how other positions may not be well informed or up to date on the topic.

A conclusion that does not simply restate the thesis, but readdresses it in light of the evidence provided.

It is at this point of the essay that students may begin to struggle. This is the portion of the essay that will leave the most immediate impression on the mind of the reader. Therefore, it must be effective and logical. Do not introduce any new information into the conclusion; rather, synthesize the information presented in the body of the essay. Restate why the topic is important, review the main points, and review your thesis. You may also want to include a short discussion of more research that should be completed in light of your work.

A complete argument

Perhaps it is helpful to think of an essay in terms of a conversation or debate with a classmate. If I were to discuss the cause of World War II and its current effect on those who lived through the tumultuous time, there would be a beginning, middle, and end to the conversation. In fact, if I were to end the argument in the middle of my second point, questions would arise concerning the current effects on those who lived through the conflict. Therefore, the argumentative essay must be complete, and logically so, leaving no doubt as to its intent or argument.

The five-paragraph essay

A common method for writing an argumentative essay is the five-paragraph approach. This is, however, by no means the only formula for writing such essays. If it sounds straightforward, that is because it is; in fact, the method consists of (a) an introductory paragraph (b) three evidentiary body paragraphs that may include discussion of opposing views and (c) a conclusion.

Longer argumentative essays

Complex issues and detailed research call for complex and detailed essays. Argumentative essays discussing a number of research sources or empirical research will most certainly be longer than five paragraphs. Authors may have to discuss the context surrounding the topic, sources of information and their credibility, as well as a number of different opinions on the issue before concluding the essay. Many of these factors will be determined by the assignment.

How to Write a Persuasive Essay

The ancient art of rhetoric dates back to the Classical period of ancient Greece, when rhetoricians used this persuasive form of public speaking to address their fellow citizens in the Greek republics. As time went on, rhetoric remained at the center of education in the western world for nearly 2,000 years. In our modern world, rhetoric is still an integral part of human discourse, utilized by world leaders and students alike to argue their points of view.

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The definition of rhetoric is the “art of effective or persuasive speaking or writing,” where language is used to have a convincing or impressive effect on the audience being addressed.

At some point in every student’s academic career, instructors will deliver the assignment to write a persuasive essay that argues for or against a certain topic. Whether or not you’ve taken a course in rhetoric, students can apply the principles of rhetoric to write an effective persuasive essay that convinces the audience to accept a certain viewpoint.

To be as convincing as Aristotle on the stand, your persuasive essay must be based on sound logic and factual evidence that support the overall argument. As you begin to think about writing a persuasive essay, here are several tips that will help you argue your topic like a true rhetorician.

Choose a position you’re passionate about

The first step in writing a persuasive essay is choosing a topic and picking a side. If the topic is something you believe in, it will make the entire experience of researching, writing, and arguing your perspective more personal. Choosing a topic that appeals to you on an emotional or sentimental level will make its defense easier. Plus, chances are you’ll already know a good deal of information about the topic, so you won’t be left scrambling when it’s time to start your research.

Thoroughly research both sides

Every argument has a counterargument—this is one of the staples of rhetoric. To convince your reader to agree with you, you must be knowledgeable of the opposing side. As important as it is to thoroughly research your topic, identifying and studying both sides of the argument will help you develop the strongest supporting evidence possible. During the research process, gather as much information as you can about the topic at hand. Use your school’s resources like the library, academic journals, and reference materials. With a full understanding of your topic, you’ll be able to readily counter the opposition and assuage any follow-up questions that might cast doubt on your claims.

>>READ MORE: 7 Essay Writing Tips

Draft your thesis statement

One of the most important elements of your persuasive essay is your thesis statement , which should tell readers exactly what your stance encompasses. Without a forceful thesis, you won’t be able to deliver an effective argument. The construction of your thesis statement should include the “what” and the “how” of your argument—what is the argument you are trying to convince your readers to accept? And how will I convince my readers that the argument is sound? While the “how” may become clearer as your essay progresses, your thesis statement should set up the organizational pattern of your essay while presenting your position.

Create a working structure or outline

Outlining your paper will give you a clear view of your argument and the way it develops. Think critically about the strengths and weaknesses of your argument—where would it be most effective for you to introduce your strongest supporting evidence? For rhetoric’s sake, it’s probably not wise to save the best for last. Instead, use your outline to get organized from the outset, anchoring each point in evidence, analysis, and counterargument. List out all of your major claims and the research that supports each point. Creating a working structure will allow you to break down your argument in a logical and concise order, which will make the writing process more straightforward.

Write with integrity and empathy

The most successful rhetorical arguments draw on three main elements: ethos (ethical reasoning) , logos (logical reasoning) , and pathos (passionate reasoning). If amassed perfectly, these three components will make your argument so powerfully robust that nobody could disagree. However, this is easier said than done; even master rhetoricians struggle to find a balance of these three elements. Ethically, you’ll want to make sure you aren’t misleading or manipulating your argument. Logically, your points must be based in fact and progress in a way that makes sense. Passionately, you should emphasize your evidence and use strategic repetition to compel your audience. The key is to find a harmony or balance among these three elements, writing with integrity and empathy.

>>READ MORE: How to Write Better Essays

As Eben Pagan said, “You can’t convince anyone of anything. You can only give them the right information, so that they can convince themselves.” In the spirit of the ancient Greek rhetoricians, knowing how to write a persuasive essay is an essential function of human discourse—and a true art form when done correctly.

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Examples of Persuasive and Argumentative Essays

Posted by 11trees | Types of Writing , Argument

The following are decent examples of Persuasive / Argumentative Essays, designed to help you think about the form more deeply. They aren’t “slam dunk” essays that guarantee an “A”. In fact, we’ve given you some perspective on how writing instructors would view these examples. Notice how the grammar doesn’t really play into the analysis of the examples; the writing is competent. It’s the ideas and choices that need work.

Click on a title below to access the original work in another window.

First up, this essay reads like a professional writer’s work – and it is.
By posing a question the essay delivers on an original argument (“it isn’t smarter or dumber – it’s impact…”) but it’s an answer to a question that is too broad for a short paper. Indeed, the author is working on a book-length work to address the issues he raises.
As an expert this author can perhaps get away with making sweeping statements about the origins of cooking, but an undergraduate writer cannot. There would need to be many more citations if this were an academic paper.
The essay includes a counterargument. Check! Notice the, “I think you can argue…” paragraph. Also a nice example of using “you” in writing – which many students are told never to do. It works here.
11trees Grade: B+/F depending on fixing citations.
Great title! Right out of the gate this author is showing personality and a unique approach. Minor ding for Not Capitalizing Each Word in the Title Excepting Articles.
However, an active reader (a professor) is going to be wondering what the writer makes of the term “saintly.” Anyone who reads Cannery Row sees the drunks and layabouts that people its pages as the equivalent of “hookers with hearts of gold.” In fact, there are hookers with hearts of gold. The first paragraph does not raise our hopes…the author is telling us (so far) what we already know.
The author describes “Mack and the boys” as outcasts, but she doesn’t establish this with evidence from the text. Many readers will see them as readily accepted members of the little community – not outcasts.
No counterargument.
11trees Grade: C (notice the webpage itself is more generous in its evaluation).
Titles can help teachers quite a bit. This one walks into a buzz saw. Who would argue that diet and exercise AREN’T important? So from the title, and certainly the first paragraph, we know we have a summary paper masquerading as an argument. You might as well argue that the Earth is round.
There is a counterargument (“Despite all these factors…there are critics…”), but the author does not name the naysayers and conventional wisdom is that these people are whackos. So it’s a fake counterargument.
11trees Grade: C/C- (generous!).

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What Is an Expository Essay?

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The four main types of essay | Quick guide with examples

The Four Main Types of Essay | Quick Guide with Examples

Published on September 4, 2020 by Jack Caulfield . Revised on July 23, 2023.

An essay is a focused piece of writing designed to inform or persuade. There are many different types of essay, but they are often defined in four categories: argumentative, expository, narrative, and descriptive essays.

Argumentative and expository essays are focused on conveying information and making clear points, while narrative and descriptive essays are about exercising creativity and writing in an interesting way. At university level, argumentative essays are the most common type.

In high school and college, you will also often have to write textual analysis essays, which test your skills in close reading and interpretation.

Argumentative essays, expository essays, narrative essays, descriptive essays, textual analysis essays, other interesting articles, frequently asked questions about types of essays.

An argumentative essay presents an extended, evidence-based argument. It requires a strong thesis statement —a clearly defined stance on your topic. Your aim is to convince the reader of your thesis using evidence (such as quotations ) and analysis.

Argumentative essays test your ability to research and present your own position on a topic. This is the most common type of essay at college level—most papers you write will involve some kind of argumentation.

The essay is divided into an introduction, body, and conclusion:

The introduction provides your topic and thesis statement
The body presents your evidence and arguments
The conclusion summarizes your argument and emphasizes its importance

The example below is a paragraph from the body of an argumentative essay about the effects of the internet on education. Mouse over it to learn more.

A common frustration for teachers is students’ use of Wikipedia as a source in their writing. Its prevalence among students is not exaggerated; a survey found that the vast majority of the students surveyed used Wikipedia (Head & Eisenberg, 2010). An article in The Guardian stresses a common objection to its use: “a reliance on Wikipedia can discourage students from engaging with genuine academic writing” (Coomer, 2013). Teachers are clearly not mistaken in viewing Wikipedia usage as ubiquitous among their students; but the claim that it discourages engagement with academic sources requires further investigation. This point is treated as self-evident by many teachers, but Wikipedia itself explicitly encourages students to look into other sources. Its articles often provide references to academic publications and include warning notes where citations are missing; the site’s own guidelines for research make clear that it should be used as a starting point, emphasizing that users should always “read the references and check whether they really do support what the article says” (“Wikipedia:Researching with Wikipedia,” 2020). Indeed, for many students, Wikipedia is their first encounter with the concepts of citation and referencing. The use of Wikipedia therefore has a positive side that merits deeper consideration than it often receives.

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An expository essay provides a clear, focused explanation of a topic. It doesn’t require an original argument, just a balanced and well-organized view of the topic.

Expository essays test your familiarity with a topic and your ability to organize and convey information. They are commonly assigned at high school or in exam questions at college level.

The introduction of an expository essay states your topic and provides some general background, the body presents the details, and the conclusion summarizes the information presented.

A typical body paragraph from an expository essay about the invention of the printing press is shown below. Mouse over it to learn more.

The invention of the printing press in 1440 changed this situation dramatically. Johannes Gutenberg, who had worked as a goldsmith, used his knowledge of metals in the design of the press. He made his type from an alloy of lead, tin, and antimony, whose durability allowed for the reliable production of high-quality books. This new technology allowed texts to be reproduced and disseminated on a much larger scale than was previously possible. The Gutenberg Bible appeared in the 1450s, and a large number of printing presses sprang up across the continent in the following decades. Gutenberg’s invention rapidly transformed cultural production in Europe; among other things, it would lead to the Protestant Reformation.

A narrative essay is one that tells a story. This is usually a story about a personal experience you had, but it may also be an imaginative exploration of something you have not experienced.

Narrative essays test your ability to build up a narrative in an engaging, well-structured way. They are much more personal and creative than other kinds of academic writing . Writing a personal statement for an application requires the same skills as a narrative essay.

A narrative essay isn’t strictly divided into introduction, body, and conclusion, but it should still begin by setting up the narrative and finish by expressing the point of the story—what you learned from your experience, or why it made an impression on you.

Mouse over the example below, a short narrative essay responding to the prompt “Write about an experience where you learned something about yourself,” to explore its structure.

Since elementary school, I have always favored subjects like science and math over the humanities. My instinct was always to think of these subjects as more solid and serious than classes like English. If there was no right answer, I thought, why bother? But recently I had an experience that taught me my academic interests are more flexible than I had thought: I took my first philosophy class.

Before I entered the classroom, I was skeptical. I waited outside with the other students and wondered what exactly philosophy would involve—I really had no idea. I imagined something pretty abstract: long, stilted conversations pondering the meaning of life. But what I got was something quite different.

A young man in jeans, Mr. Jones—“but you can call me Rob”—was far from the white-haired, buttoned-up old man I had half-expected. And rather than pulling us into pedantic arguments about obscure philosophical points, Rob engaged us on our level. To talk free will, we looked at our own choices. To talk ethics, we looked at dilemmas we had faced ourselves. By the end of class, I’d discovered that questions with no right answer can turn out to be the most interesting ones.

The experience has taught me to look at things a little more “philosophically”—and not just because it was a philosophy class! I learned that if I let go of my preconceptions, I can actually get a lot out of subjects I was previously dismissive of. The class taught me—in more ways than one—to look at things with an open mind.

A descriptive essay provides a detailed sensory description of something. Like narrative essays, they allow you to be more creative than most academic writing, but they are more tightly focused than narrative essays. You might describe a specific place or object, rather than telling a whole story.

Descriptive essays test your ability to use language creatively, making striking word choices to convey a memorable picture of what you’re describing.

A descriptive essay can be quite loosely structured, though it should usually begin by introducing the object of your description and end by drawing an overall picture of it. The important thing is to use careful word choices and figurative language to create an original description of your object.

Mouse over the example below, a response to the prompt “Describe a place you love to spend time in,” to learn more about descriptive essays.

On Sunday afternoons I like to spend my time in the garden behind my house. The garden is narrow but long, a corridor of green extending from the back of the house, and I sit on a lawn chair at the far end to read and relax. I am in my small peaceful paradise: the shade of the tree, the feel of the grass on my feet, the gentle activity of the fish in the pond beside me.

My cat crosses the garden nimbly and leaps onto the fence to survey it from above. From his perch he can watch over his little kingdom and keep an eye on the neighbours. He does this until the barking of next door’s dog scares him from his post and he bolts for the cat flap to govern from the safety of the kitchen.

With that, I am left alone with the fish, whose whole world is the pond by my feet. The fish explore the pond every day as if for the first time, prodding and inspecting every stone. I sometimes feel the same about sitting here in the garden; I know the place better than anyone, but whenever I return I still feel compelled to pay attention to all its details and novelties—a new bird perched in the tree, the growth of the grass, and the movement of the insects it shelters…

Sitting out in the garden, I feel serene. I feel at home. And yet I always feel there is more to discover. The bounds of my garden may be small, but there is a whole world contained within it, and it is one I will never get tired of inhabiting.

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Though every essay type tests your writing skills, some essays also test your ability to read carefully and critically. In a textual analysis essay, you don’t just present information on a topic, but closely analyze a text to explain how it achieves certain effects.

Rhetorical analysis

A rhetorical analysis looks at a persuasive text (e.g. a speech, an essay, a political cartoon) in terms of the rhetorical devices it uses, and evaluates their effectiveness.

The goal is not to state whether you agree with the author’s argument but to look at how they have constructed it.

The introduction of a rhetorical analysis presents the text, some background information, and your thesis statement; the body comprises the analysis itself; and the conclusion wraps up your analysis of the text, emphasizing its relevance to broader concerns.

The example below is from a rhetorical analysis of Martin Luther King Jr.’s “I Have a Dream” speech . Mouse over it to learn more.

King’s speech is infused with prophetic language throughout. Even before the famous “dream” part of the speech, King’s language consistently strikes a prophetic tone. He refers to the Lincoln Memorial as a “hallowed spot” and speaks of rising “from the dark and desolate valley of segregation” to “make justice a reality for all of God’s children.” The assumption of this prophetic voice constitutes the text’s strongest ethical appeal; after linking himself with political figures like Lincoln and the Founding Fathers, King’s ethos adopts a distinctly religious tone, recalling Biblical prophets and preachers of change from across history. This adds significant force to his words; standing before an audience of hundreds of thousands, he states not just what the future should be, but what it will be: “The whirlwinds of revolt will continue to shake the foundations of our nation until the bright day of justice emerges.” This warning is almost apocalyptic in tone, though it concludes with the positive image of the “bright day of justice.” The power of King’s rhetoric thus stems not only from the pathos of his vision of a brighter future, but from the ethos of the prophetic voice he adopts in expressing this vision.

Literary analysis

A literary analysis essay presents a close reading of a work of literature—e.g. a poem or novel—to explore the choices made by the author and how they help to convey the text’s theme. It is not simply a book report or a review, but an in-depth interpretation of the text.

Literary analysis looks at things like setting, characters, themes, and figurative language. The goal is to closely analyze what the author conveys and how.

The introduction of a literary analysis essay presents the text and background, and provides your thesis statement; the body consists of close readings of the text with quotations and analysis in support of your argument; and the conclusion emphasizes what your approach tells us about the text.

Mouse over the example below, the introduction to a literary analysis essay on Frankenstein , to learn more.

Mary Shelley’s Frankenstein is often read as a crude cautionary tale about the dangers of scientific advancement unrestrained by ethical considerations. In this reading, protagonist Victor Frankenstein is a stable representation of the callous ambition of modern science throughout the novel. This essay, however, argues that far from providing a stable image of the character, Shelley uses shifting narrative perspectives to portray Frankenstein in an increasingly negative light as the novel goes on. While he initially appears to be a naive but sympathetic idealist, after the creature’s narrative Frankenstein begins to resemble—even in his own telling—the thoughtlessly cruel figure the creature represents him as. This essay begins by exploring the positive portrayal of Frankenstein in the first volume, then moves on to the creature’s perception of him, and finally discusses the third volume’s narrative shift toward viewing Frankenstein as the creature views him.

If you want to know more about AI tools , college essays , or fallacies make sure to check out some of our other articles with explanations and examples or go directly to our tools!

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At high school and in composition classes at university, you’ll often be told to write a specific type of essay , but you might also just be given prompts.

Look for keywords in these prompts that suggest a certain approach: The word “explain” suggests you should write an expository essay , while the word “describe” implies a descriptive essay . An argumentative essay might be prompted with the word “assess” or “argue.”

The vast majority of essays written at university are some sort of argumentative essay . Almost all academic writing involves building up an argument, though other types of essay might be assigned in composition classes.

Essays can present arguments about all kinds of different topics. For example:

In a literary analysis essay, you might make an argument for a specific interpretation of a text
In a history essay, you might present an argument for the importance of a particular event
In a politics essay, you might argue for the validity of a certain political theory

An argumentative essay tends to be a longer essay involving independent research, and aims to make an original argument about a topic. Its thesis statement makes a contentious claim that must be supported in an objective, evidence-based way.

An expository essay also aims to be objective, but it doesn’t have to make an original argument. Rather, it aims to explain something (e.g., a process or idea) in a clear, concise way. Expository essays are often shorter assignments and rely less on research.

The key difference is that a narrative essay is designed to tell a complete story, while a descriptive essay is meant to convey an intense description of a particular place, object, or concept.

Narrative and descriptive essays both allow you to write more personally and creatively than other kinds of essays , and similar writing skills can apply to both.

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Caulfield, J. (2023, July 23). The Four Main Types of Essay | Quick Guide with Examples. Scribbr. Retrieved November 14, 2023, from https://www.scribbr.com/academic-essay/essay-types/

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How to Write a Persuasive Essay: Detailed Guide

A persuasive essay aims to cultivate students' capacity for convincing, arguing, and championing their points of view.

Writing a persuasive essay, alternatively called argumentative, employs logic and reasoning to demonstrate the superiority of one idea over another. Its primary objective is to convince a reader to embrace a specific perspective or to engage in a particular course of action.

In this article, you will find out about the definition of a persuasive essay, the difference between argumentative and persuasive essays, its core elements, and essential writing tips, as well as a couple of great examples.

What Is a Persuasive Essay

According to a persuasive essay definition, it is a type of academic writing assignment frequently given to students in schools, colleges, and universities. The purpose of persuasion in writing is to sway, motivate, or guide readers toward a specific viewpoint or opinion. The very act of attempting to persuade inherently acknowledges that multiple opinions on the subject can be presented.

The notion of an argument may often bring to mind images of two individuals engaged in heated, angry exchanges. However, in writing, an argument takes on a distinct form. It represents a well-reasoned viewpoint bolstered by supporting evidence and explanations. To argue in writing is to contribute to the advancement of knowledge and ideas in a constructive manner. Written arguments tend to falter when they resort to emotional outbursts rather than logical reasoning. While your readers may not always align with your argument, the objective is to encourage them to respect and contemplate your thesis or opinion as a valid one.

High school students are likely to write persuasive essays more frequently, particularly in English or composition classes. The frequency may vary but could be several times per semester. In higher education, the frequency of persuasive essays can depend on the major and specific courses. Students in disciplines like English, history, political science, or philosophy may encounter persuasive essays multiple times during a semester.

Why Writing Persuasive Essays Is Important for You

Persuasive writing is a fundamental skill taught to students at an early stage in their academic journey. It's an engaging and enjoyable form of writing that aims to initiate a discussion on a chosen subject. This writing approach challenges students to adopt a clear position on a particular topic or cause and employ compelling arguments to convince readers of the author's viewpoint.

When crafting a persuasive essay, students must diligently investigate the designated topic, analyze it thoroughly, and take a firm and argumentative stance. Subsequently, using logical arguments and persuasive language, students are tasked with dispelling biases and assuring readers that the author's viewpoint is the most valid. If at any point you find this task too challenging or time-consuming, our is exactly what you need to ace the assignment.

Argumentative vs Persuasive Essay

When students Google ' write my paper ,' they are usually confused by the difference between persuasive and argumentative essays. Although they are both types of academic writing that aim to convince the reader to adopt a particular point of view or take a specific action, there are also some key differences between the two:

Similarities

Persuasive Purpose: Both persuasive and argumentative essays have the primary goal of persuading the reader. They seek to influence the audience's beliefs, attitudes, or actions.
Clear Position: In both essays, the writer takes a clear and distinct position on a specific issue or topic. They present a thesis statement or a central claim that they support throughout the essay.
Use of Evidence: Both essays use evidence, reasoning, and logical arguments to support the author's viewpoint. They rely on facts, examples, statistics, and expert opinions to strengthen their case.
Counterarguments: Effective persuasive and argumentative essays acknowledge opposing viewpoints (counterarguments) and address them to strengthen their own position. This demonstrates a fair and thorough analysis of the topic.
Organizational Structure: Both essays generally follow a similar structure, including an introduction, body paragraphs that present evidence and arguments, and a conclusion that summarizes the key points and restates the thesis.

Differences

Audience and Tone:

Persuasive Essays: These essays often target a broader audience and may use a more emotional or persuasive tone to appeal to the reader's emotions and values.
Argumentative Essays: The audience for argumentative essays is typically more academic or formal, and the tone is more objective and relies on logical reasoning.

Emphasis on Emotion:

Persuasive Essays: They may use emotional appeals, storytelling, and rhetorical devices to connect with the reader's emotions and values.
Argumentative Essays: These essays prioritize logical reasoning and factual evidence over emotional appeals.

Use of Personal Experience:

Persuasive Essays: Writers might draw on personal anecdotes and experiences to make their case.
Argumentative Essays: Personal experiences are generally avoided in argumentative essays, as the focus is on empirical evidence and objective reasoning.

Purpose Beyond Convincing:

Persuasive Essays: While their primary purpose is persuasion, persuasive essays can also aim to motivate or call the reader to action.
Argumentative Essays: The primary goal of argumentative essays is to prove the validity of a point of view through logical and reasoned arguments.

While persuasive and argumentative essays share the goal of persuading the reader, they differ in their approaches, tone, and the extent to which they use emotional appeals. The choice between the two depends on the intended audience and the specific purpose of the essay. We also have a guide on how to write an argumentative essay in case you need assistance with this type of task.

Persuasive Essay Key Elements and Outline

If you've been wondering how to start a persuasive essay, you should incorporate one of the three fundamental elements known as the modes of persuasion. These concepts, first introduced by the philosopher Aristotle, synergize to form a convincing and impactful argument aimed at influencing the viewpoints of others.

Ethos: Represents a component of argument and persuasion where the writer establishes their credibility, expertise, and moral integrity. Readers tend to place greater trust in individuals with genuine knowledge, personal experience, or a respected position within a community. Including ethos, or ethical appeal, in your persuasive writing can effectively advocate for your perspective.
Pathos: Involves appealing to the emotions of the audience with the intent of eliciting feelings. Eliciting specific emotions within your readers can foster a connection between them and your narrative. This not only piques the readers' interest but also makes your writing more engaging and memorable.
Logos: Encompasses the rhetorical or persuasive appeal to the audience's logic and reason. A well-structured persuasive essay presents a series of logical arguments that persuade the reader to embrace the writer's position.

A gripping persuasive essay seamlessly integrates these three modes of persuasion to construct a persuasive and impactful argument. These modes, rooted in credibility, emotion, and logic, enhance the effectiveness of persuasive writing and its ability to sway the opinions of the audience. By the way, we have a strong guide on how to write a synthesis essay , which is another type of written task commonly assigned to students of all levels.

Font: Utilize Times New Roman or a legible font such as Georgia or Arial.
Font Size: Set the headline(s) to 16pt and the remaining text to 12pt.
Alignment: Justified.
Spacing: Use double spacing, though 1.5 spacing may be acceptable in certain cases.
Word Count: Typically, aim for a word count ranging from 500 to 2000 words. However, it's advisable to refer to your teacher's instructions to determine the specific word count requirement for your assignment.

To provide you with a clearer understanding of how to create an outline for a persuasive essay, here's a template for a persuasive essay on the topic 'Are Women Weaker Than Men Today':

1. Introduction

Hook: 'In the 21st century, women have transcended traditional roles.'
Background Information: 'The age-old debate on women's relative strength persists.'
Thesis Statement: 'The era of male dominance has given way to a new reality. Today, women can excel in virtually any field or role just as men can.'

2. Main Body

Argument #1: Strength in Family Dynamics + Supporting Facts, Stats, and Evidence
Argument #2: Strength in the Workplace + Supporting Facts, Stats, and Evidence
Argument #3: Strength in Society + Supporting Facts, Stats, and Evidence

3. Conclusion

Summary of Key Arguments
Restate Thesis: 'For centuries, women were unjustly labeled as the weaker sex. However, examining the accomplishments of contemporary women dispels this notion.'
Thought-Provoking Conclusion: 'In recent decades, women worldwide have demonstrated their capability to excel in diverse roles traditionally dominated by men. Their accomplishments are a testament to their strength. Yet, women continue to strive for greater participation in modern society, a testament to their enduring resilience and determination.'

How to Shape a Powerful Persuasive Argument

The notion of how to write a good persuasive essay is tightly related to how you can make compelling arguments. Here are some fundamental tips to assist you in crafting irresistible arguments for your paper:

Thorough Research: It's essential to be well-versed in your chosen topic to develop strong and persuasive points. Conduct comprehensive research using reputable sources, gather expert opinions, and uncover relevant facts.
Ensure Controversy: Your thesis should encompass two opposing sides – the one you support and the one you intend to counter. Without a debatable topic, creating a persuasive argument is challenging.
Comprehend Contrary Views: Another crucial aspect of building robust arguments is the ability to grasp the opposing standpoint and find solid counterarguments to refute it effectively.
Utilize Supporting Evidence: Lastly, remember that a persuasive argument may appear incomplete and unconvincing without ample, cogent evidence to back it up. Incorporate relevant and reliable evidence to reinforce your claims.

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How to Shape a Powerful Persuasive Argument

How to Support Your Argument

When writing a persuasive essay that resonates with readers thanks to an enthralling argument, it would be a great idea to use various methods to reinforce it:

Statistics: An excellent way to bolster your ideas is by incorporating a variety of statistics. Statistics often carry significant weight within the broader context. However, it's crucial to use only valid statistics from reputable sources. Example: Presently, women constitute 18% of the officer corps and approximately 16% of the enlisted military forces in the United States, reinforcing the notion that women are equally capable as men.
Facts: Established facts are potent tools of persuasion that you can rely on in your paper. Example: Research indicates that in terms of longevity, women are more likely to survive illness and cope with trauma.
Examples: Incorporating real-life examples (including personal experiences), references to literature, or historical instances can enhance the impact of your persuasive paper and provide substantial support for your arguments. Example: Angela Merkel, the Chancellor of Germany, serves as a compelling real-life illustration of women's strength. Merkel displayed the fortitude to enter the realm of politics and compete against men. Her success has demonstrated that a woman can excel in politics. It's no coincidence that she held the top spot on Forbes' list of the world's most powerful women for nine consecutive years.
Quotes: Another effective method to reinforce your ideas is to include direct quotes that reflect the opinions of respected and credible figures. Example: Mahatma Gandhi once stated, 'To call woman the weaker sex is a libel; it is man's injustice to woman. If by strength, brute strength is meant, then indeed, a woman is less brute than a man. If moral power is meant by strength, then the woman is immeasurably man's superior. Has she not greater intuition, is she not more self-sacrificing, has she not greater powers of endurance, has she not greater courage? Without her, man could not be. If nonviolence is the law of our being, the future is with a woman. Who can make a more effective appeal to the heart than woman?

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How to Write a Persuasive Essay: Step-by-Step

When tasked with composing a persuasive paper, a common error among students is diving straight into essay writing, often overlooking essential preparatory steps.

To address this, we offer a comprehensive, step-by-step guide to navigate you through the entire process:

Choose a Topic That Ignites Your Passion

Your persuasive abilities shine when you advocate for something you genuinely believe in. One of the most important steps to writing a persuasive essay is to select your topic, opting for one that resonates with your own convictions. While research is still vital, having a strong opinion about the subject will bolster your argument.

Engage in Thorough Research

Learning how to write a persuasive essay, you should convince readers to embrace your viewpoint. You must also understand the opposing perspective. Your audience may be firmly entrenched in their own views, so familiarizing yourself with both sides of the argument and knowing how to effectively counter opposing arguments will address potential doubts.

Understand Your Audience

Prior to persuading your readers, get to know them. Tailor your approach to match your target demographic. For example, if you're crafting a persuasive letter advocating for the removal of standardized testing from school systems, your primary audience is likely parents. Keep this in mind when addressing your specific audience. Does getting into the minds of readers sounds a bit too difficult? Consider custom essay writing services from pro writers who know how to appeal to various types of audiences.

Create a Detailed Outline

Before commencing the writing process, create a persuasive essay outline. This aids in structuring your thoughts, organizing your research, and establishing your essay's framework. Elaborate on all your main points and pair them with the relevant supporting evidence from your cited sources.

Craft a Captivating Introduction

An intriguing article kicks off with an effective persuasive essay introduction, typically the first paragraph. Its primary purpose is to introduce the paper's central premise, furnish necessary background information, appeal to the reader's sensibilities, and capture their attention. You can achieve this through personal anecdotes or information derived from your research. The introductory paragraph should also feature your essay's thesis statement, functioning as a roadmap for the ensuing content. It succinctly articulates the main point of the paper, with the rest of the essay serving to bolster this point.

Develop Your Body Paragraphs

This section serves as the substantive core of your persuasive essay, employing data and evidence to support your thesis while addressing opposing viewpoints. Each body paragraph comprises three key components: a topic sentence (or primary sentence), pertinent supporting sentences, and a closing (or transition) sentence. This structure maintains the paragraph's focus on the central idea, delivering clear and concise information. The body also provides an opportunity to discuss opposing opinions and justify their dismissal, so ensure that the claims you make are substantiated with credible and pertinent information. Did you know that one of the reasons students choose an essay service is because they find body paragraph writing too exhausting?

Conclude Powerfully

A persuasive essay conclusion represents the final segment of your essay, encapsulating the entire work. It should recap your thesis, summarize the key supporting ideas explored in the essay, and convey your final perspective on the central concept. This is also where you present your call-to-action if you are urging readers to take prompt action on a particular issue.

Proofread Diligently

Always subject your writing to thorough proofreading before submission or presentation. Overlooked words, grammatical errors, or sentence structure issues can undermine your credibility in the reader's eyes.

Writing a Persuasive Essay: Essential Tips

Taking into account the abovementioned information, here are some concluding tips to enhance the quality of your persuasive essay:

Simplicity Over Complexity: While it's acceptable to incorporate vocabulary variety, don't expect a higher grade solely from using fancy synonyms. Find your writing style and strive for clarity.
Smooth Transitions: Ensure your essay flows seamlessly by employing logical transitions between different sections, making it easy and enjoyable to read.
Exploring Diverse Techniques: Experiment with a range of persuasive writing methods. While we've covered fundamental elements in this article, numerous other techniques can be discovered in various sources and mediums.
Thorough Proofreading: Triple-check your work! Regular practice and diligent proofreading improve the quality of your writing. Review your essay for readability, logical consistency, style, tone, and alignment with the thesis. Seek a second opinion by having a friend read your essay.
Ask the Right Questions. After writing and proofreading, take a moment to address the following inquiries:
Did I adhere to the teacher's instructions?
Have I addressed the primary question presented in the assignment (if applicable)?
Is my essay well-structured?
Is the text coherent and clear?
Is my word choice throughout the paper appropriate?
Have I provided sufficient supporting evidence for my ideas?
Is my paper free of errors?
Can I enhance the overall quality further?
Does it present a convincing argument?

So, knowing all the crucial elements of persuasive writing, have you already thought of persuasive essay topics ? Check out our collection to get your creative juices flowing!

Persuasive Essay Examples

Explore the persuasive essay examples provided below to gain a deeper comprehension of crafting this type of document.

Persuasive Essay Example: Are Women Weaker Than Men Today?

This well-structured persuasive essay challenges the presumption that women are weaker than men and presents supporting evidence.

The question of whether women are weaker than men has often elicited raging debates, with conservationists arguing that women are certainly weaker than men. The converse is, however, true, and if the 21st-century woman is to be taken as an example, women are certainly as strong as men, if not stronger, across all comparable platforms. The era of male dominance came to an end with the rise of feminine power, and gone are the days when men were the more dominant of the human species. As the saying goes, "what men can do, women can do better," the women of today can do almost everything men can do and as just as good.

Persuasive Essay Example: Should People Who Download Music and Movies Illegally Be Punished?

This persuasive essay example adeptly employs source material and addresses a contemporary concern. The author questions the concept of online piracy and argues that media sharing has become a societal norm.

The United States government came up with the Copyright Act of 1976 to protect the works of art by different artists. The act outlines the punishable felonies concerning authenticity; for instance, illegally downloading music from the internet is a punishable offense. In addition, it sets specific fines for committing such crimes; for example, it says that one could pay a fine of up to $ 30,000 per piece of work (Burrell & Coleman, n.d.). Therefore, though downloading songs freely from the internet could sound normal, it is a felony. However, some questions exist on whether this act is worth the penalties. For this reason, a critical analysis of the transgression will determine whether or not it merits the charges.

Concluding Words

In this guide, we covered all the fundamentals of how to write a persuasive essay. We outlined the essential steps, from selecting a topic to developing strong arguments, and provided tips for creating impactful introductions and conclusions. By following this guide, you could be able to persuade and effectively communicate your viewpoints to captivate the audience and eventually score an excellent grade.

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40 Strong Persuasive Writing Examples (Essays, Speeches, Ads, and More)

Learn from the experts.

The American Crisis historical article, as an instance of persuasive essay examples

The more we read, the better writers we become. Teaching students to write strong persuasive essays should always start with reading some top-notch models. This round-up of persuasive writing examples includes famous speeches, influential ad campaigns, contemporary reviews of famous books, and more. Use them to inspire your students to write their own essays. (Need persuasive essay topics? Check out our list of interesting persuasive essay ideas here! )

Persuasive Essays
Persuasive Speeches
Advertising Campaigns

Persuasive Essay Writing Examples

First paragraph of Thomas Paine's The American Crisis

From the earliest days of print, authors have used persuasive essays to try to sway others to their own point of view. Check out these top persuasive essay writing examples.

Professions for Women by Virginia Woolf

Sample lines: “Outwardly, what is simpler than to write books? Outwardly, what obstacles are there for a woman rather than for a man? Inwardly, I think, the case is very different; she has still many ghosts to fight, many prejudices to overcome. Indeed it will be a long time still, I think, before a woman can sit down to write a book without finding a phantom to be slain, a rock to be dashed against. And if this is so in literature, the freest of all professions for women, how is it in the new professions which you are now for the first time entering?

The American Crisis by Thomas Paine

Sample lines: “These are the times that try men’s souls. The summer soldier and the sunshine patriot will, in this crisis, shrink from the service of their country; but he that stands by it now, deserves the love and thanks of man and woman. Tyranny, like hell, is not easily conquered; yet we have this consolation with us, that the harder the conflict, the more glorious the triumph. What we obtain too cheap, we esteem too lightly: it is dearness only that gives every thing its value.”

Politics and the English Language by George Orwell

Sample lines: “As I have tried to show, modern writing at its worst does not consist in picking out words for the sake of their meaning and inventing images in order to make the meaning clearer. It consists in gumming together long strips of words which have already been set in order by someone else, and making the results presentable by sheer humbug.”

Letter From a Birmingham Jail by Dr. Martin Luther King Jr.

Sample lines: “We know through painful experience that freedom is never voluntarily given by the oppressor; it must be demanded by the oppressed. Frankly, I have yet to engage in a direct action campaign that was ‘well timed’ in the view of those who have not suffered unduly from the disease of segregation. For years now I have heard the word ‘Wait!’ It rings in the ear of every Negro with piercing familiarity. This ‘Wait’ has almost always meant ‘Never.’ We must come to see, with one of our distinguished jurists, that ‘justice too long delayed is justice denied.'”

Civil Disobedience by Henry David Thoreau

Sample lines: “Even voting for the right is doing nothing for it. It is only expressing to men feebly your desire that it should prevail. A wise man will not leave the right to the mercy of chance, nor wish it to prevail through the power of the majority. There is but little virtue in the action of masses of men.”

Go Gentle Into That Good Night by Roger Ebert

Sample lines: “‘Kindness’ covers all of my political beliefs. No need to spell them out. I believe that if, at the end of it all, according to our abilities, we have done something to make others a little happier, and something to make ourselves a little happier, that is about the best we can do. To make others less happy is a crime.”

The Way to Wealth by Benjamin Franklin

Sample lines: “Methinks I hear some of you say, must a man afford himself no leisure? I will tell thee, my friend, what Poor Richard says, employ thy time well if thou meanest to gain leisure; and, since thou art not sure of a minute, throw not away an hour. Leisure is time for doing something useful; this leisure the diligent man will obtain, but the lazy man never; so that, as Poor Richard says, a life of leisure and a life of laziness are two things.”

The Crack-Up by F. Scott Fitzgerald

Sample lines: “Of course all life is a process of breaking down, but the blows that do the dramatic side of the work – the big sudden blows that come, or seem to come, from outside – the ones you remember and blame things on and, in moments of weakness, tell your friends about, don’t show their effect all at once.”

Open Letter to the Kansas School Board by Bobby Henderson

Sample lines: “I am writing you with much concern after having read of your hearing to decide whether the alternative theory of Intelligent Design should be taught along with the theory of Evolution … Let us remember that there are multiple theories of Intelligent Design. I and many others around the world are of the strong belief that the universe was created by a Flying Spaghetti Monster … We feel strongly that the overwhelming scientific evidence pointing towards evolutionary processes is nothing but a coincidence, put in place by Him. It is for this reason that I’m writing you today, to formally request that this alternative theory be taught in your schools, along with the other two theories.”

Open Letter to the United Nations by Niels Bohr

Sample lines: “Humanity will, therefore, be confronted with dangers of unprecedented character unless, in due time, measures can be taken to forestall a disastrous competition in such formidable armaments and to establish an international control of the manufacture and use of the powerful materials.”

Persuasive Speech Writing Examples

Many persuasive speeches are political in nature, often addressing subjects like human rights. Here are some of history’s most well-known persuasive writing examples in the form of speeches.

I Have a Dream by Dr. Martin Luther King Jr.

Sample lines: “And so even though we face the difficulties of today and tomorrow, I still have a dream. It is a dream deeply rooted in the American dream. I have a dream that one day this nation will rise up and live out the true meaning of its creed: We hold these truths to be self-evident, that all men are created equal.”

Woodrow Wilson’s War Message to Congress, 1917

Sample lines: “There are, it may be, many months of fiery trial and sacrifice ahead of us. It is a fearful thing to lead this great peaceful people into war, into the most terrible and disastrous of all wars, civilization itself seeming to be in the balance. But the right is more precious than peace, and we shall fight for the things which we have always carried nearest our hearts—for democracy, for the right of those who submit to authority to have a voice in their own governments, for the rights and liberties of small nations, for a universal dominion of right by such a concert of free peoples as shall bring peace and safety to all nations and make the world itself at last free.”

Chief Seattle’s 1854 Oration

Sample lines: “I here and now make this condition that we will not be denied the privilege without molestation of visiting at any time the tombs of our ancestors, friends, and children. Every part of this soil is sacred in the estimation of my people. Every hillside, every valley, every plain and grove, has been hallowed by some sad or happy event in days long vanished. Even the rocks, which seem to be dumb and dead as they swelter in the sun along the silent shore, thrill with memories of stirring events connected with the lives of my people, and the very dust upon which you now stand responds more lovingly to their footsteps than yours, because it is rich with the blood of our ancestors, and our bare feet are conscious of the sympathetic touch.”

Women’s Rights Are Human Rights, Hillary Rodham Clinton

Sample lines: “What we are learning around the world is that if women are healthy and educated, their families will flourish. If women are free from violence, their families will flourish. If women have a chance to work and earn as full and equal partners in society, their families will flourish. And when families flourish, communities and nations do as well. … If there is one message that echoes forth from this conference, let it be that human rights are women’s rights and women’s rights are human rights once and for all.”

I Am Prepared to Die, Nelson Mandela

Sample lines: “Above all, My Lord, we want equal political rights, because without them our disabilities will be permanent. I know this sounds revolutionary to the whites in this country, because the majority of voters will be Africans. This makes the white man fear democracy. But this fear cannot be allowed to stand in the way of the only solution which will guarantee racial harmony and freedom for all. It is not true that the enfranchisement of all will result in racial domination. Political division, based on color, is entirely artificial and, when it disappears, so will the domination of one color group by another. … This then is what the ANC is fighting. Our struggle is a truly national one. It is a struggle of the African people, inspired by our own suffering and our own experience. It is a struggle for the right to live.”

The Struggle for Human Rights by Eleanor Roosevelt

Sample lines: “It is my belief, and I am sure it is also yours, that the struggle for democracy and freedom is a critical struggle, for their preservation is essential to the great objective of the United Nations to maintain international peace and security. Among free men the end cannot justify the means. We know the patterns of totalitarianism—the single political party, the control of schools, press, radio, the arts, the sciences, and the church to support autocratic authority; these are the age-old patterns against which men have struggled for 3,000 years. These are the signs of reaction, retreat, and retrogression. The United Nations must hold fast to the heritage of freedom won by the struggle of its people; it must help us to pass it on to generations to come.”

Freedom From Fear by Aung San Suu Kyi

Sample lines: “Saints, it has been said, are the sinners who go on trying. So free men are the oppressed who go on trying and who in the process make themselves fit to bear the responsibilities and to uphold the disciplines which will maintain a free society. Among the basic freedoms to which men aspire that their lives might be full and uncramped, freedom from fear stands out as both a means and an end. A people who would build a nation in which strong, democratic institutions are firmly established as a guarantee against state-induced power must first learn to liberate their own minds from apathy and fear.”

Harvey Milk’s “The Hope” Speech

Sample lines: “Some people are satisfied. And some people are not. You see there is a major difference—and it remains a vital difference—between a friend and a gay person, a friend in office and a gay person in office. Gay people have been slandered nationwide. We’ve been tarred and we’ve been brushed with the picture of pornography. In Dade County, we were accused of child molestation. It is not enough anymore just to have friends represent us, no matter how good that friend may be.”

The Strike and the Union, Cesar Chavez

Sample lines: “We are showing our unity in our strike. Our strike is stopping the work in the fields; our strike is stopping ships that would carry grapes; our strike is stopping the trucks that would carry the grapes. Our strike will stop every way the grower makes money until we have a union contract that guarantees us a fair share of the money he makes from our work! We are a union and we are strong and we are striking to force the growers to respect our strength!”

Nobel Lecture by Malala Yousafzai

Sample lines: “The world can no longer accept that basic education is enough. Why do leaders accept that for children in developing countries, only basic literacy is sufficient, when their own children do homework in algebra, mathematics, science, and physics? Leaders must seize this opportunity to guarantee a free, quality, primary and secondary education for every child. Some will say this is impractical, or too expensive, or too hard. Or maybe even impossible. But it is time the world thinks bigger.”

Persuasive Writing Examples in Advertising Campaigns

Ads are prime persuasive writing examples. You can flip open any magazine or watch TV for an hour or two to see sample after sample of persuasive language. Here are some of the most popular ad campaigns of all time, with links to articles explaining why they were so successful.

Nike: Just Do It

The iconic swoosh with the simple tagline has persuaded millions to buy their kicks from Nike and Nike alone. Teamed with pro sports star endorsements, this campaign is one for the ages. Blinkist offers an opinion on what made it work.

Dove: Real Beauty

Beauty brand Dove changed the game by choosing “real” women to tell their stories instead of models. They used relatable images and language to make connections, and inspired other brands to try the same concept. Learn why Global Brands considers this one a true success story.

Wendy’s: Where’s the Beef?

Today’s kids are too young to remember the cranky old woman demanding to know where the beef was on her fast-food hamburger. But in the 1980s, it was a catchphrase that sold millions of Wendy’s burgers. Learn from Better Marketing how this ad campaign even found its way into the 1984 presidential debate.

De Beers: A Diamond Is Forever

Diamond engagement ring on black velvet. Text reads "How do you make two months' salary last forever? The Diamond Engagement Ring."

A diamond engagement ring has become a standard these days, but the tradition isn’t as old as you might think. In fact, it was De Beers jewelry company’s 1948 campaign that created the modern engagement ring trend. The Drum has the whole story of this sparkling campaign.

Volkswagen: Think Small

Americans have always loved big cars. So in the 1960s, when Volkswagen wanted to introduce their small cars to a bigger market, they had a problem. The clever “Think Small” campaign gave buyers clever reasons to consider these models, like “If you run out of gas, it’s easy to push.” Learn how advertisers interested American buyers in little cars at Visual Rhetoric.

American Express: Don’t Leave Home Without It

AmEx was once better known for traveler’s checks than credit cards, and the original slogan was “Don’t leave home without them.” A simple word change convinced travelers that American Express was the credit card they needed when they headed out on adventures. Discover more about this persuasive campaign from Medium.

Skittles: Taste the Rainbow

Bag of Skittles candy against a blue background. Text reads

These candy ads are weird and intriguing and probably not for everyone. But they definitely get you thinking, and that often leads to buying. Learn more about why these wacky ads are successful from The Drum.

Maybelline: Maybe She’s Born With It

Smart wordplay made this ad campaign slogan an instant hit. The ads teased, “Maybe she’s born with it. Maybe it’s Maybelline.” (So many literary devices all in one phrase!) Fashionista has more on this beauty campaign.

Coca-Cola: Share a Coke

Seeing their own name on a bottle made teens more likely to want to buy a Coke. What can that teach us about persuasive writing in general? It’s an interesting question to consider. Learn more about the “Share a Coke” campaign from Digital Vidya.

Always: #LikeaGirl

Always ad showing a young girl holding a softball. Text reads

Talk about the power of words! This Always campaign turned the derogatory phrase “like a girl” on its head, and the world embraced it. Storytelling is an important part of persuasive writing, and these ads really do it well. Medium has more on this stereotype-bashing campaign.

Editorial Persuasive Writing Examples

Newspaper editors or publishers use editorials to share their personal opinions. Noted politicians, experts, or pundits may also offer their opinions on behalf of the editors or publishers. Here are a couple of older well-known editorials, along with a selection from current newspapers.

Yes, Virginia, There Is a Santa Claus (1897)

Sample lines: “Yes, Virginia, there is a Santa Claus. He exists as certainly as love and generosity and devotion exist, and you know that they abound and give to your life its highest beauty and joy. Alas! How dreary would be the world if there were no Santa Claus. It would be as dreary as if there were no Virginias.”

What’s the Matter With Kansas? (1896)

Sample lines: “Oh, this IS a state to be proud of! We are a people who can hold up our heads! What we need is not more money, but less capital, fewer white shirts and brains, fewer men with business judgment, and more of those fellows who boast that they are ‘just ordinary clodhoppers, but they know more in a minute about finance than John Sherman,’ we need more men … who hate prosperity, and who think, because a man believes in national honor, he is a tool of Wall Street.”

America Can Have Democracy or Political Violence. Not Both. (The New York Times)

Sample lines: “The nation is not powerless to stop a slide toward deadly chaos. If institutions and individuals do more to make it unacceptable in American public life, organized violence in the service of political objectives can still be pushed to the fringes. When a faction of one of the country’s two main political parties embraces extremism, that makes thwarting it both more difficult and more necessary. A well-functioning democracy demands it.”

The Booster Isn’t Perfect, But Still Can Help Against COVID (The Washington Post)

Sample lines: “The booster shots are still free, readily available and work better than the previous boosters even as the virus evolves. Much still needs to be done to build better vaccines that protect longer and against more variants, including those that might emerge in the future. But it is worth grabbing the booster that exists today, the jab being a small price for any measure that can help keep COVID at bay.”

If We Want Wildlife to Thrive in L.A., We Have To Share Our Neighborhoods With Them (Los Angeles Times)

Sample lines: “If there are no corridors for wildlife movement and if excessive excavation of dirt to build bigger, taller houses erodes the slope of a hillside, then we are slowly destroying wildlife habitat. For those people fretting about what this will do to their property values—isn’t open space, trees, and wildlife an amenity in these communities?”

Persuasive Review Writing Examples

Image of first published New York Times Book Review

Book or movie reviews are more great persuasive writing examples. Look for those written by professionals for the strongest arguments and writing styles. Here are reviews of some popular books and movies by well-known critics to use as samples.

The Great Gatsby (The Chicago Tribune, 1925)

Sample lines: “What ails it, fundamentally, is the plain fact that it is simply a story—that Fitzgerald seems to be far more interested in maintaining its suspense than in getting under the skins of its people. It is not that they are false: It is that they are taken too much for granted. Only Gatsby himself genuinely lives and breathes. The rest are mere marionettes—often astonishingly lifelike, but nevertheless not quite alive.”

Harry Potter and the Sorcerer’s Stone (Washington Post, 1999)

Sample lines: “Obviously, Harry Potter and the Sorcerer’s Stone should make any modern 11-year-old a very happy reader. The novel moves quickly, packs in everything from a boa constrictor that winks to a melancholy Zen-spouting centaur to an owl postal system, and ends with a scary surprise. Yet it is, essentially, a light-hearted thriller, interrupted by occasional seriousness (the implications of Harry’s miserable childhood, a moral about the power of love).”

Twilight (The Telegraph, 2009)

Sample lines: “No secret, of course, at whom this book is aimed, and no doubt, either, that it has hit its mark. The four Twilight novels are not so much enjoyed, as devoured, by legions of young female fans worldwide. That’s not to say boys can’t enjoy these books; it’s just that the pages of heart-searching dialogue between Edward and Bella may prove too long on chat and too short on action for the average male reader.”

To Kill a Mockingbird (Time, 1960)

Sample lines: “Author Lee, 34, an Alabaman, has written her first novel with all of the tactile brilliance and none of the preciosity generally supposed to be standard swamp-warfare issue for Southern writers. The novel is an account of an awakening to good and evil, and a faint catechistic flavor may have been inevitable. But it is faint indeed; novelist Lee’s prose has an edge that cuts through cant, and she teaches the reader an astonishing number of useful truths about little girls and about Southern life.”

The Diary of Anne Frank (The New York Times, 1952)

Sample lines: “And this quality brings it home to any family in the world today. Just as the Franks lived in momentary fear of the Gestapo’s knock on their hidden door, so every family today lives in fear of the knock of war. Anne’s diary is a great affirmative answer to the life-question of today, for she shows how ordinary people, within this ordeal, consistently hold to the greater human values.”

What are your favorite persuasive writing examples to use with students? Come share your ideas in the WeAreTeachers HELPLINE group on Facebook .

Plus, the big list of essay topics for high school (100+ ideas) ., you might also like.

Persuasive Essay Topics: Should we allow little kids to play competitive sports?

101 Interesting Persuasive Essay Topics for Kids and Teens

Use your words to sway the reader. Continue Reading

Choose Your Test

Sat / act prep online guides and tips, 113 perfect persuasive essay topics for any assignment.

General Education

Do you need to write a persuasive essay but aren’t sure what topic to focus on? Were you thrilled when your teacher said you could write about whatever you wanted but are now overwhelmed by the possibilities? We’re here to help!

Read on for a list of 113 top-notch persuasive essay topics, organized into ten categories. To help get you started, we also discuss what a persuasive essay is, how to choose a great topic, and what tips to keep in mind as you write your persuasive essay.

What Is a Persuasive Essay?

In a persuasive essay, you attempt to convince readers to agree with your point of view on an argument. For example, an essay analyzing changes in Italian art during the Renaissance wouldn’t be a persuasive essay, because there’s no argument, but an essay where you argue that Italian art reached its peak during the Renaissance would be a persuasive essay because you’re trying to get your audience to agree with your viewpoint.

Persuasive and argumentative essays both try to convince readers to agree with the author, but the two essay types have key differences. Argumentative essays show a more balanced view of the issue and discuss both sides. Persuasive essays focus more heavily on the side the author agrees with. They also often include more of the author’s opinion than argumentative essays, which tend to use only facts and data to support their argument.

All persuasive essays have the following:

Introduction: Introduces the topic, explains why it’s important, and ends with the thesis.
Thesis: A sentence that sums up what the essay be discussing and what your stance on the issue is.
Reasons you believe your side of the argument: Why do you support the side you do? Typically each main point will have its own body paragraph.
Evidence supporting your argument: Facts or examples to back up your main points. Even though your opinion is allowed in persuasive essays more than most other essays, having concrete examples will make a stronger argument than relying on your opinion alone.
Conclusion: Restatement of thesis, summary of main points, and a recap of why the issue is important.

What Makes a Good Persuasive Essay Topic?

Theoretically, you could write a persuasive essay about any subject under the sun, but that doesn’t necessarily mean you should. Certain topics are easier to write a strong persuasive essay on, and below are tips to follow when deciding what you should write about.

It’s a Topic You Care About

Obviously, it’s possible to write an essay about a topic you find completely boring. You’ve probably done it! However, if possible, it’s always better to choose a topic that you care about and are interested in. When this is the case, you’ll find doing the research more enjoyable, writing the essay easier, and your writing will likely be better because you’ll be more passionate about and informed on the topic.

You Have Enough Evidence to Support Your Argument

Just being passionate about a subject isn’t enough to make it a good persuasive essay topic, though. You need to make sure your argument is complex enough to have at least two potential sides to root for, and you need to be able to back up your side with evidence and examples. Even though persuasive essays allow your opinion to feature more than many other essays, you still need concrete evidence to back up your claims, or you’ll end up with a weak essay.

For example, you may passionately believe that mint chocolate chip ice cream is the best ice cream flavor (I agree!), but could you really write an entire essay on this? What would be your reasons for believing mint chocolate chip is the best (besides the fact that it’s delicious)? How would you support your belief? Have enough studies been done on preferred ice cream flavors to support an entire essay? When choosing a persuasive essay idea, you want to find the right balance between something you care about (so you can write well on it) and something the rest of the world cares about (so you can reference evidence to strengthen your position).

It’s a Manageable Topic

Bigger isn’t always better, especially with essay topics. While it may seem like a great idea to choose a huge, complex topic to write about, you’ll likely struggle to sift through all the information and different sides of the issue and winnow them down to one streamlined essay. For example, choosing to write an essay about how WWII impacted American life more than WWI wouldn’t be a great idea because you’d need to analyze all the impacts of both the wars in numerous areas of American life. It’d be a huge undertaking. A better idea would be to choose one impact on American life the wars had (such as changes in female employment) and focus on that. Doing so will make researching and writing your persuasive essay much more feasible.

List of 113 Good Persuasive Essay Topics

Below are over 100 persuasive essay ideas, organized into ten categories. When you find an idea that piques your interest, you’ll choose one side of it to argue for in your essay. For example, if you choose the topic, “should fracking be legal?” you’d decide whether you believe fracking should be legal or illegal, then you’d write an essay arguing all the reasons why your audience should agree with you.

Arts/Culture

Should students be required to learn an instrument in school?
Did the end of Game of Thrones fit with the rest of the series?
Can music be an effective way to treat mental illness?
With e-readers so popular, have libraries become obsolete?
Are the Harry Potter books more popular than they deserve to be?
Should music with offensive language come with a warning label?
What’s the best way for museums to get more people to visit?
Should students be able to substitute an art or music class for a PE class in school?
Are the Kardashians good or bad role models for young people?
Should people in higher income brackets pay more taxes?
Should all high school students be required to take a class on financial literacy?
Is it possible to achieve the American dream, or is it only a myth?
Is it better to spend a summer as an unpaid intern at a prestigious company or as a paid worker at a local store/restaurant?
Should the United States impose more or fewer tariffs?
Should college graduates have their student loans forgiven?
Should restaurants eliminate tipping and raise staff wages instead?
Should students learn cursive writing in school?
Which is more important: PE class or music class?
Is it better to have year-round school with shorter breaks throughout the year?
Should class rank be abolished in schools?
Should students be taught sex education in school?
Should students be able to attend public universities for free?
What’s the most effective way to change the behavior of school bullies?
Are the SAT and ACT accurate ways to measure intelligence?
Should students be able to learn sign language instead of a foreign language?
Do the benefits of Greek life at colleges outweigh the negatives?
Does doing homework actually help students learn more?
Why do students in many other countries score higher than American students on math exams?
Should parents/teachers be able to ban certain books from schools?
What’s the best way to reduce cheating in school?
Should colleges take a student’s race into account when making admissions decisions?
Should there be limits to free speech?
Should students be required to perform community service to graduate high school?
Should convicted felons who have completed their sentence be allowed to vote?
Should gun ownership be more tightly regulated?
Should recycling be made mandatory?
Should employers be required to offer paid leave to new parents?
Are there any circumstances where torture should be allowed?
Should children under the age of 18 be able to get plastic surgery for cosmetic reasons?
Should white supremacy groups be allowed to hold rallies in public places?
Does making abortion illegal make women more or less safe?
Does foreign aid actually help developing countries?
Are there times a person’s freedom of speech should be curtailed?
Should people over a certain age not be allowed to adopt children?

Government/Politics

Should the minimum voting age be raised/lowered/kept the same?
Should Puerto Rico be granted statehood?
Should the United States build a border wall with Mexico?
Who should be the next person printed on American banknotes?
Should the United States’ military budget be reduced?
Did China’s one child policy have overall positive or negative impacts on the country?
Should DREAMers be granted US citizenship?
Is national security more important than individual privacy?
What responsibility does the government have to help homeless people?
Should the electoral college be abolished?
Should the US increase or decrease the number of refugees it allows in each year?
Should privately-run prisons be abolished?
Who was the most/least effective US president?
Will Brexit end up helping or harming the UK?

What’s the best way to reduce the spread of Ebola?
Is the Keto diet a safe and effective way to lose weight?
Should the FDA regulate vitamins and supplements more strictly?
Should public schools require all students who attend to be vaccinated?
Is eating genetically modified food safe?
What’s the best way to make health insurance more affordable?
What’s the best way to lower the teen pregnancy rate?
Should recreational marijuana be legalized nationwide?
Should birth control pills be available without a prescription?
Should pregnant women be forbidden from buying cigarettes and alcohol?
Why has anxiety increased in adolescents?
Are low-carb or low-fat diets more effective for weight loss?
What caused the destruction of the USS Maine?
Was King Arthur a mythical legend or actual Dark Ages king?
Was the US justified in dropping atomic bombs during WWII?
What was the primary cause of the Rwandan genocide?
What happened to the settlers of the Roanoke colony?
Was disagreement over slavery the primary cause of the US Civil War?
What has caused the numerous disappearances in the Bermuda triangle?
Should nuclear power be banned?
Is scientific testing on animals necessary?
Do zoos help or harm animals?
Should scientists be allowed to clone humans?
Should animals in circuses be banned?
Should fracking be legal?
Should people be allowed to keep exotic animals as pets?
What’s the best way to reduce illegal poaching in Africa?
What is the best way to reduce the impact of global warming?
Should euthanasia be legalized?
Is there legitimate evidence of extraterrestrial life?
Should people be banned from owning aggressive dog breeds?
Should the United States devote more money towards space exploration?
Should the government subsidize renewable forms of energy?
Is solar energy worth the cost?
Should stem cells be used in medicine?
Is it right for the US to leave the Paris Climate Agreement?
Should athletes who fail a drug test receive a lifetime ban from the sport?
Should college athletes receive a salary?
Should the NFL do more to prevent concussions in players?
Do PE classes help students stay in shape?
Should horse racing be banned?
Should cheerleading be considered a sport?
Should children younger than 18 be allowed to play tackle football?
Are the costs of hosting an Olympic Games worth it?
Can online schools be as effective as traditional schools?
Do violent video games encourage players to be violent in real life?
Should facial recognition technology be banned?
Does excessive social media use lead to depression/anxiety?
Has the rise of translation technology made knowing multiple languages obsolete?
Was Steve Jobs a visionary or just a great marketer?
Should social media be banned for children younger than a certain age?
Which 21st-century invention has had the largest impact on society?
Are ride-sharing companies like Uber and Lyft good or bad for society?
Should Facebook have done more to protect the privacy of its users?
Will technology end up increasing or decreasing inequality worldwide?

Tips for Writing a Strong Persuasive Essay

After you’ve chosen the perfect topic for your persuasive essay, your work isn’t over. Follow the three tips below to create a top-notch essay.

Do Your Research

Your argument will fall apart if you don’t fully understand the issue you’re discussing or you overlook an important piece of it. Readers won’t be convinced by someone who doesn’t know the subject, and you likely won’t persuade any of them to begin supporting your viewpoint. Before you begin writing a single word of your essay, research your topic thoroughly. Study different sources, learn about the different sides of the argument, ask anyone who’s an expert on the topic what their opinion is, etc. You might be tempted to start writing right away, but by doing your research, you’ll make the writing process much easier when the time comes.

Make Your Thesis Perfect

Your thesis is the most important sentence in your persuasive essay. Just by reading that single sentence, your audience should know exactly what topic you’ll be discussing and where you stand on the issue. You want your thesis to be crystal clear and to accurately set up the rest of your essay. Asking classmates or your teacher to look it over before you begin writing the rest of your essay can be a big help if you’re not entirely confident in your thesis.

Consider the Other Side

You’ll spend most of your essay focusing on your side of the argument since that’s what you want readers to come away believing. However, don’t think that means you can ignore other sides of the issue. In your essay, be sure to discuss the other side’s argument, as well as why you believe this view is weak or untrue. Researching all the different viewpoints and including them in your essay will increase the quality of your writing by making your essay more complete and nuanced.

Summary: Persuasive Essay Ideas

Good persuasive essay topics can be difficult to come up with, but in this guide we’ve created a list of 113 excellent essay topics for you to browse. The best persuasive essay ideas will be those that you are interested in, have enough evidence to support your argument, and aren’t too complicated to be summarized in an essay.

After you’ve chosen your essay topic, keep these three tips in mind when you begin writing:

Do your research
Make your thesis perfect
Consider the other side

What's Next?

Need ideas for a research paper topic as well? Our guide to research paper topics has over 100 topics in ten categories so you can be sure to find the perfect topic for you.

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Need more help with this topic? Check out Tutorbase!

Our vetted tutor database includes a range of experienced educators who can help you polish an essay for English or explain how derivatives work for Calculus. You can use dozens of filters and search criteria to find the perfect person for your needs.

Christine graduated from Michigan State University with degrees in Environmental Biology and Geography and received her Master's from Duke University. In high school she scored in the 99th percentile on the SAT and was named a National Merit Finalist. She has taught English and biology in several countries.

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Persuasive Essays

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What is an opinion that you have? Why should a reader agree with your opinion? What is a course of action people should take? Why? Questions like these can lead to a persuasive essay. A persuasive essay is a type of opinion writing that not only gives your opinion and support but also tries to convince the reader to agree with you (WritingCity, n.d.). In this chapter, you will write a persuasive essay that uses research to support your ideas.

WritingCity. (n.d.). Differences between opinion, persuasive, and argument writing . www.writestepswriting.com. Retrieved December 17, 2022, from http://wjhlibrary.weebly.com/uploads/1/3/1/9/13197742/writing_chart.pdf

This content is provided to you freely by BYU Open Learning Network.

Access it online or download it at https://open.byu.edu/up_writing_fall/argumentative_essays .

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student opinion

130 New Prompts for Argumentative Writing

Questions on everything from mental health and sports to video games and dating. Which ones inspire you to take a stand?

Our list includes this question suggested by a student: <a href="https://www.nytimes.com/2018/03/02/learning/is-it-harder-to-grow-up-in-the-21st-century-than-it-was-in-the-past.html">Is it harder to grow up in the 21st century than it was in the past?</a>

By The Learning Network

Note: We have an updated version of this list, with 300 new argumentative writing prompts .

What issues do you care most about? What topics do you find yourself discussing passionately, whether online, at the dinner table, in the classroom or with your friends?

In Unit 5 of our free yearlong writing curriculum and related Student Editorial Contest , we invite students to research and write about the issues that matter to them, whether that’s Shakespeare , health care , standardized testing or being messy .

But with so many possibilities, where does one even begin? Try our student writing prompts.

In 2017, we compiled a list of 401 argumentative writing prompts , all drawn from our daily Student Opinion column . Now, we’re rounding up 130 more we’ve published since then ( available here as a PDF ). Each prompt links to a free Times article as well as additional subquestions that can help you think more deeply about it.

You might use this list to inspire your own writing and to find links to reliable resources about the issues that intrigue you. But even if you’re not participating in our contest, you can use these prompts to practice the kind of low-stakes writing that can help you hone your argumentation skills.

So scroll through the list below with questions on everything from sports and mental health to dating and video games and see which ones inspire you to take a stand.

Please note: Many of these prompts are still open to comment by students 13 and up.

Technology & Social Media

1. Do Memes Make the Internet a Better Place? 2. Does Online Public Shaming Prevent Us From Being Able to Grow and Change? 3. How Young Is Too Young to Use Social Media? 4. Should the Adults in Your Life Be Worried by How Much You Use Your Phone? 5. Is Your Phone Love Hurting Your Relationships? 6. Should Kids Be Social Media Influencers? 7. Does Grammar Still Matter in the Age of Twitter? 8. Should Texting While Driving Be Treated Like Drunken Driving? 9. How Do You Think Technology Affects Dating?

10. Are Straight A’s Always a Good Thing? 11. Should Schools Teach You How to Be Happy? 12. How Do You Think American Education Could Be Improved? 13. Should Schools Test Their Students for Nicotine and Drug Use? 14. Can Social Media Be a Tool for Learning and Growth in Schools? 15. Should Facial Recognition Technology Be Used in Schools? 16. Should Your School Day Start Later? 17. How Should Senior Year in High School Be Spent? 18. Should Teachers Be Armed With Guns? 19. Is School a Place for Self-Expression? 20. Should Students Be Punished for Not Having Lunch Money? 21. Is Live-Streaming Classrooms a Good Idea? 22. Should Gifted and Talented Education Be Eliminated? 23. What Are the Most Important Things Students Should Learn in School? 24. Should Schools Be Allowed to Censor Student Newspapers? 25. Do You Feel Your School and Teachers Welcome Both Conservative and Liberal Points of View? 26. Should Teachers and Professors Ban Student Use of Laptops in Class? 27. Should Schools Teach About Climate Change? 28. Should All Schools Offer Music Programs? 29. Does Your School Need More Money? 30. Should All Schools Teach Cursive? 31. What Role Should Textbooks Play in Education? 32. Do Kids Need Recess?

College & Career

33. What Is Your Reaction to the College Admissions Cheating Scandal? 34. Is the College Admissions Process Fair? 35. Should Everyone Go to College? 36. Should College Be Free? 37. Are Lavish Amenities on College Campuses Useful or Frivolous? 38. Should ‘Despised Dissenters’ Be Allowed to Speak on College Campuses? 39. How Should the Problem of Sexual Assault on Campuses Be Addressed? 40. Should Fraternities Be Abolished? 41. Is Student Debt Worth It?

Mental & Physical Health

42. Should Students Get Mental Health Days Off From School? 43. Is Struggle Essential to Happiness? 44. Does Every Country Need a ‘Loneliness Minister’? 45. Should Schools Teach Mindfulness? 46. Should All Children Be Vaccinated? 47. What Do You Think About Vegetarianism? 48. Do We Worry Too Much About Germs? 49. What Advice Should Parents and Counselors Give Teenagers About Sexting? 50. Do You Think Porn Influences the Way Teenagers Think About Sex?

Race & Gender

51. How Should Parents Teach Their Children About Race and Racism? 52. Is America ‘Backsliding’ on Race? 53. Should All Americans Receive Anti-Bias Education? 54. Should All Companies Require Anti-Bias Training for Employees? 55. Should Columbus Day Be Replaced With Indigenous Peoples Day? 56. Is Fear of ‘The Other’ Poisoning Public Life? 57. Should the Boy Scouts Be Coed? 58. What Is Hard About Being a Boy?

59. Can You Separate Art From the Artist? 60. Are There Subjects That Should Be Off-Limits to Artists, or to Certain Artists in Particular? 61. Should Art Come With Trigger Warnings? 62. Should Graffiti Be Protected? 63. Is the Digital Era Improving or Ruining the Experience of Art? 64. Are Museums Still Important in the Digital Age? 65. In the Age of Digital Streaming, Are Movie Theaters Still Relevant? 66. Is Hollywood Becoming More Diverse? 67. What Stereotypical Characters Make You Cringe? 68. Do We Need More Female Superheroes? 69. Do Video Games Deserve the Bad Rap They Often Get? 70. Should Musicians Be Allowed to Copy or Borrow From Other Artists? 71. Is Listening to a Book Just as Good as Reading It? 72. Is There Any Benefit to Reading Books You Hate?

73. Should Girls and Boys Sports Teams Compete in the Same League? 74. Should College Athletes Be Paid? 75. Are Youth Sports Too Competitive? 76. Is It Selfish to Pursue Risky Sports Like Extreme Mountain Climbing? 77. How Should We Punish Sports Cheaters? 78. Should Technology in Sports Be Limited? 79. Should Blowouts Be Allowed in Youth Sports? 80. Is It Offensive for Sports Teams and Their Fans to Use Native American Names, Imagery and Gestures?

81. Is It Wrong to Focus on Animal Welfare When Humans Are Suffering? 82. Should Extinct Animals Be Resurrected? If So, Which Ones? 83. Are Emotional-Support Animals a Scam? 84. Is Animal Testing Ever Justified? 85. Should We Be Concerned With Where We Get Our Pets? 86. Is This Exhibit Animal Cruelty or Art?

Parenting & Childhood

87. Who Should Decide Whether a Teenager Can Get a Tattoo or Piercing? 88. Is It Harder to Grow Up in the 21st Century Than It Was in the Past? 89. Should Parents Track Their Teenager’s Location? 90. Is Childhood Today Over-Supervised? 91. How Should Parents Talk to Their Children About Drugs? 92. What Should We Call Your Generation? 93. Do Other People Care Too Much About Your Post-High School Plans? 94. Do Parents Ever Cross a Line by Helping Too Much With Schoolwork? 95. What’s the Best Way to Discipline Children? 96. What Are Your Thoughts on ‘Snowplow Parents’? 97. Should Stay-at-Home Parents Be Paid? 98. When Do You Become an Adult?

Ethics & Morality

99. Why Do Bystanders Sometimes Fail to Help When They See Someone in Danger? 100. Is It Ethical to Create Genetically Edited Humans? 101. Should Reporters Ever Help the People They Are Covering? 102. Is It O.K. to Use Family Connections to Get a Job? 103. Is $1 Billion Too Much Money for Any One Person to Have? 104. Are We Being Bad Citizens If We Don’t Keep Up With the News? 105. Should Prisons Offer Incarcerated People Education Opportunities? 106. Should Law Enforcement Be Able to Use DNA Data From Genealogy Websites for Criminal Investigations? 107. Should We Treat Robots Like People?

Government & Politics

108. Does the United States Owe Reparations to the Descendants of Enslaved People? 109. Do You Think It Is Important for Teenagers to Participate in Political Activism? 110. Should the Voting Age Be Lowered to 16? 111. What Should Lawmakers Do About Guns and Gun Violence? 112. Should Confederate Statues Be Removed or Remain in Place? 113. Does the U.S. Constitution Need an Equal Rights Amendment? 114. Should National Monuments Be Protected by the Government? 115. Should Free Speech Protections Include Self Expression That Discriminates? 116. How Important Is Freedom of the Press? 117. Should Ex-Felons Have the Right to Vote? 118. Should Marijuana Be Legal? 119. Should the United States Abolish Daylight Saving Time? 120. Should We Abolish the Death Penalty? 121. Should the U.S. Ban Military-Style Semiautomatic Weapons? 122. Should the U.S. Get Rid of the Electoral College? 123. What Do You Think of President Trump’s Use of Twitter? 124. Should Celebrities Weigh In on Politics? 125. Why Is It Important for People With Different Political Beliefs to Talk to Each Other?

100 Persuasive Essay Topics

M.Ed., Education Administration, University of Georgia
B.A., History, Armstrong State University

Persuasive essays are a bit like argument essays and persuasive speeches , but they tend to be a little kinder and gentler. Argument essays require you to discuss and to attack an alternate view, while persuasive essays are attempts to convince the reader that you have a believable argument. In other words, you are an advocate, not an adversary.

A Persuasive Essay Has 3 Components

Introduction : This is the opening paragraph of your essay. It contains the hook, which is used to grab the reader's attention, and the thesis, or argument, which you'll explain in the next section.
Body : This is the heart of your essay, usually three to five paragraphs in length. Each paragraph examines one theme or issue used to support your thesis.
Conclusion : This is the final paragraph of your essay. In it, you'll sum up the main points of the body and connect them to your thesis. Persuasive essays often use the conclusion as a last appeal to the audience.

Learning how to write a persuasive essay is an essential skill that people use every day in fields from business to law to media and entertainment. English students can begin writing a persuasive essay at any skill level. You're sure to find a sample topic or two from the list of 100 persuasive essays below, sorted by degree of difficulty.

Watch Now: 12 Ideas for Great Persuasive Essay Topics

Kids should get paid for good grades.
Students should have less homework.
Snow days are great for family time.
Penmanship is important.
Short hair is better than long hair.
We should all grow our own vegetables.
We need more holidays.
Aliens probably exist.
Gym class is more important than music class.
Kids should be able to vote.
Kids should get paid for extra activities like sports.
School should take place in the evenings.
Country life is better than city life.
City life is better than country life.
We can change the world.
Skateboard helmets should be mandatory.
We should provide food for the poor.
Children should be paid for doing chores.
We should populate the moon .
Dogs make better pets than cats.

Intermediate

The government should impose household trash limits.
Nuclear weapons are an effective deterrent against foreign attack.
Teens should be required to take parenting classes.
We should teach etiquette in schools.
School uniform laws are unconstitutional.
All students should wear uniforms.
Too much money is a bad thing.
High schools should offer specialized degrees in arts or sciences.
Magazine advertisements send unhealthy signals to young women.
Robocalling should be outlawed.
Age 12 is too young to babysit.
Children should be required to read more.
All students should be given the opportunity to study abroad.
Yearly driving tests should be mandatory past age 65.
Cell phones should never be used while driving.
All schools should implement bullying awareness programs.
Bullies should be kicked out of school.
Parents of bullies should have to pay a fine.
The school year should be longer.
School days should start later.
Teens should be able to choose their bedtime.
There should be a mandatory entrance exam for high school.
Public transit should be privatized.
We should allow pets in school.
The voting age should be lowered to 16.
Beauty contests are bad for body image.
Every American should learn to speak Spanish.
Every immigrant should learn to speak English.
Video games can be educational.
College athletes should be paid for their services.
We need a military draft .
Professional sports should eliminate cheerleaders.
Teens should be able to start driving at 14 instead of 16.
Year-round school is a bad idea.
High school campuses should be guarded by police officers.
The legal drinking age should be lowered to 19.
Kids under 15 shouldn't have Facebook pages.
Standardized testing should be eliminated.
Teachers should be paid more.
There should be one world currency.
Domestic surveillance without a warrant should be legal.
Letter grades should be replaced with a pass or fail.
Every family should have a natural disaster survival plan.
Parents should talk to kids about drugs at a young age.
Racial slurs should be illegal.
Gun ownership should be tightly regulated.
Puerto Rico should be granted statehood.
People should go to jail when they abandon their pets.
Free speech should have limitations.
Members of Congress should be subject to term limits.
Recycling should be mandatory for everyone.
High-speed internet access should be regulated like a public utility.
Yearly driving tests should be mandatory for the first five years after getting a license.
Recreational marijuana should be made legal nationwide.
Legal marijuana should be taxed and regulated like tobacco or alcohol.
Child support dodgers should go to jail.
Students should be allowed to pray in school.
All Americans have a constitutional right to health care.
Internet access should be free for everyone.
Social Security should be privatized.
Pregnant couples should receive parenting lessons.
We shouldn't use products made from animals.
Celebrities should have more privacy rights.
Professional football is too violent and should be banned.
We need better sex education in schools.
School testing is not effective.
The United States should build a border wall with Mexico and with Canada.
Life is better than it was 50 years ago.
Eating meat is unethical.
A vegan diet is the only diet people should follow.
Medical testing on animals should be illegal.
The Electoral College is outdated.
Medical testing on animals is necessary.
Public safety is more important than an individual's right to privacy.
Single-sex colleges provide a better education.
Books should never be banned.
Violent video games can cause people to act violently in real life.
Freedom of religion has limitations.
Nuclear power should be illegal.
Climate change should be the president's primary political concern.
Arizona State University Writing Center staff. " Persuasive Essay Structure ." ASU.edu, June 2012.
Collins, Jen, and Polak, Adam. " Persuasive Essays ." Hamilton.edu.
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Essay Writing

200 Argumentative/Persuasive – Excellent Ideas for Free

So, you just wanted to write a great argumentative essay? Then you should start with choosing a truly interesting topic. It should be a question which can make you almost fight for your view point. Here’s a collection of interesting and thought-provoking topics. Browse the categories by subjects and topics. Anyway, you’ll find a topic to sink your teeth into in this list. Enjoy!

Argumentative/persuasive essay topics: Advertizing

Advertizing has become a significant part of pop culture.
Word of mouth will never be replaced with other forms of ads.
Humor is the best way for an ad to build a connection with the audience.
Marketing technologies get more and more complicated year after year.
Internet is the most effective channel for advertizing.
Social networks should be free of ads.
25th shot advertizing should be outlawed.
Advertizing of anything that is potentially harmful to health should be banned.
Temporary tattoo advertizing is stupid.
The marketing tricks with old price/new price aren’t effective anymore.

Argumentative/persuasive essay topics: Animal Testing

Companies which use animal testing should pay higher taxes, than companies which avoid tests on animals.
Products tested on animals should have corresponding labels on them.
Animal testing is ineffective because humans and animals may have different responses to the same ingredients.
Researchers should use cheaper alternatives instead of animal testing.
The Draize eye test is outrageous and should be banned.
Schools should raise students’ awareness on animal testing.
Testing drugs on humans is out of the question.
All forms of animal testing for beauty products should be banned.
Tests on Reconstructed Human Epidermis are more reliable than animal testing.
The progress in medicine would have been impossible without animal testing in the past.

Argumentative/persuasive essay topics: Art

Computer design isn’t art.
Graffiti isn’t an artwork unless it uses canvases.
Audiences sometimes see in artworks what artists didn’t intend to put in them.
Most geniuses are weird.
Artists don’t need much talent to create abstractionist pictures.
Portrait painters add their own features to portraits of other people.
Favorite music can heal.
The historical monuments should be closed from public.
Pregnant women should listen to classic music to increase their babies’ IQ.
Good movies can educate kids.

Argumentative/persuasive essay topics: Business Ethics

Is it ethical to copy the competitors’ best practices?
Is there a real link between sustainability and profits?
Should businesses spend less on advertizing?
Are fines more effective than bonuses for motivating employees?
Does corporate culture affect employee’s loyalty?
Is it possible to be good to customers but bad to employees?
Is it reasonable to cut the costs by dismissing the staff?
Is business leadership critical to the company’s success?
Is change management important to the company’s development?
Has business ethics changed over the previous decade?

Argumentative/persuasive essay topics: College

Students should be paid for good grades.
Modern students have too much homework, which can be bad for their health.
Internet with its distractions hinders the study process.
Teachers should use modern technologies in class.
Lecture recording is less effective than making notes.
All colleges should launch programs to raise students’ awareness on fraternity hazing.
Modern textbooks are too expensive.
A college degree doesn’t guarantee successful employment.
Internships improve students’ chances for further employment.
Classes should start after 11 p.m.

Argumentative/persuasive essay topics: Criminal Justice

Capital punishment should be banned to prevent the deaths of the innocent.
Capital punishment is inhuman and unnecessary.
Criminals need special rehabilitation programs.
War on drugs in America was cruel and ineffective.
Zero Tolerance Policy isn’t effective.
Public shaming of criminal suspects in China has lost its power.
Prosecutors have too much power.
Minors should bear the same responsibility as adults for serious offenses.
Plea bargaining doesn’t undermine the criminal justice system.
The criminal justice system should focus more on rehabilitation than retribution.

Argumentative/persuasive essay topics: Gender Roles

There’s no such an issue in modern society as a glass ceiling.
The politically correct language does nothing but complicates our lives.
The s/he problem in literature is a fruit of our imagination.
Fathers should take parenting leaves.
Women are better managers than men.
Appearance compliments at work are insulting.
Girls shouldn’t ask boys out.
Females prefer intuition to logical thinking.
Men shouldn’t yield their seats in buses to women.
Women are better drivers than men.

Argumentative/persuasive essay topics: Homosexuality

Homosexuality is genetic and absolutely natural.
Gay parades do nothing but advertise same-sex relations.
LGBT awareness should be included into college curriculum.
Parents of gay kids need special psychological counseling.
Transgender individuals need more visibility in mass media.
Same-sex marriages are happier and have lower divorce rates, than heterosexual couples.
Same-sex couples should have the right to marry.
Along with employing different ethnic groups, companies should hire people of different sexual orientations.
There are more gay people today than there were in the past.
Homosexuality should be accepted by society as a norm.

Argumentative/persuasive essay topics: HR

Should managers check employees’ Facebook profiles before hiring them?
Is it acceptable to use lie detectors at job interviews?
Should employees have the right for privacy if they access their personal accounts at work?
Should companies hire more entry level employees?
Is it better to invest in employees’ training or hire experts?
Is internal promotion always better than the external promotion?
Is the transition from colleague to boss possible?
Are professional skills more important than the employee’s ethics?
Is there place for friendship at work?
Should relatives be allowed to work together?

Argumentative/persuasive essay topics: International Economics

Is the shift of textile industry to China bad for other countries?
Is globalization a good idea?
Should all countries stop using nuclear power?
Is the arms race over now?
Should the USA interfere into internal conflicts of other countries?
Is there likelihood of further enlargement of the European Union?
Should developed countries help poor African countries?
Is it true that international trade isn’t about competition because it’s about mutually beneficial exchange?
Does Fair Trade movement improve trading conditions for the developing countries?
Could the adoption of single European currency benefit British firms?

Argumentative/persuasive essay topics: Internet

Should kids be allowed to use social networks before the age of 16?
Are Facebook and Twitter good for communication skills?
Does Linkedin help build professional connections?
Are social media profiles necessary for finding a job?
Does Google spoil us making us stupid?
Is there such a problem as Internet addiction?
Can too much negative information from the web cause a depression?
Should parents have access to Facebook profiles of their teenager kids?
Can Twitter be an instrument of political manipulation?
Should Google share their users’ info with the government agencies?

Argumentative/persuasive essay topics: Language

Language environment is the only way to learn a foreign language on an advanced level.
English should remain a language of international communication.
Bilingual education brings better results.
Kids from bilingual families master both languages equally well.
Slang will gradually become a part of the dictionaries.
Jokes can tell a lot about a person’s mindset.
Politically correct language makes conversations confusing.
Non-verbal communication is worth a thousand of words.
It’s easier to learn a second or a third foreign language than properly master the first one.
Learning a language is impossible without understanding the culture.

Argumentative/persuasive essay topics: Myths

Black cats bring neither good nor bad luck.
Blondes can be smart.
Self-stereotyping is the result of depersonalization.
Idee fixe is a pathological mindset taking a form of obsession.
The main reason why obese people feel disadvantaged is the social stigma.
‘Irregardless’ is a true English word.
The Great Wall of China is not visible from the Moon.
Alcohol can only make you think that you feel warmer.
A vegetarian diet can provide enough protein for healthy nutrition.
There is no evidence supporting existence of photographic memory.

Argumentative/persuasive essay topics: Parenting

Young couples should take parenting courses and receive parenting licenses.
Stick and carrot motivation doesn’t work with kids.
Parents should become role models for their kids.
Upbringing starts before the baby is born.
Nurture is more important than nature.
Too much control causes phobias in kids.
Parents should respect their kids as independent personalities.
Families should consider homeschooling only if parents have enough time and proper skills.
Democratic parenting style brings the best results.
Adopted kids should learn the truth from their parents.

Argumentative/persuasive essay topics: Popular Culture

Can electronic music be compared to classic music?
Should beauty standards be changed to promote healthy lifestyle?
Can fast food be called a part of the national cuisine?
Do reality shows improve our understanding of psychology?
Do talk shows have negative effects on the audience’s views?
Is fashion a chance for self-expression or is it simply about going with the stream?
School uniform could solve many problems.
Should teachers wear uniforms, too?
Should fashion shows invite horizontally challenged models?
Can classic art help students improve their aesthetic taste?

Argumentative/persuasive essay topics: Professions

Prostitutes need their own labor unions.
Business leadership can’t be learnt.
Teachers should have higher salaries.
We should encourage youth to choose jobs involving physical labor.
Colleges should invite more males to become nurses and schoolteachers.
Babysitting requires appropriate training.
Freelance jobs have taken a big part of labor market.
Talent is necessary to become an actor.
Psychological tests don’t help to choose a profession.
Students should listen to their inner voice when choosing a major.

Argumentative/persuasive essay topics: Psychology

Listening to Mozart’s music doesn’t make anyone smarter.
Cheating at the exams can be addictive.
Men shouldn’t be present at the birth of their babies.
Barbie dolls are bad for the girls’ self-perception.
Smiles is the best answer in different situations.
Fairy tales should be adapted to the modern realities.
Violent video games should be banned.
Facebook can be good for socialization.
Student-teacher positive relations are the key to student’s success.
People should stop comparing themselves with others.

Argumentative/persuasive essay topics: Religion

Do people need one single religion?
Can religious feelings justify wars?
Is religion the real cause of the numerous conflicts?
Is islamophobia in the USA after 9/11 real?
Should people violating the religious feelings of others be imprisoned?
Does a theism make people crueler?
Do most people turn to religion only when something bad happens?
Should religion be included in school curriculum?
Can it be a coincidence that most of the world religions have stories about the miraculous immaculate conception of the God’s son?
Should kids have the right to choose a religion for them without their parents’ pressure?

Argumentative/persuasive essay topics: Sports

Physical training should be mandatory at schools and colleges.
Chess is a kind of sports.
Adrenalin is not worth the risks of extreme sport.
Computer games are not a sport.
College athletes can be smart.
To be honest, professional sport should be cheaper.
Football requires using intellect.
Power lifting is not appropriate for women.
Yoga supports body and soul.
Sport addiction can be bad for health.

Argumentative/persuasive essay topics: Technologies

Cell phones are bad for kids’ health.
People should not buy new TV sets if their old ones work well.
We should put more social ads on the web.
Kids under the age of 18 shouldn’t use Facebook, MySpace, etc.
Students don’t need to learn handwriting anymore.
Paper books will die in 10-20 years.
Technologies should work for your health (e.g. monitors controlling if you sit up straight or not).
Genetically modified foods should be banned worldwide.
Human employees should not be replaced with machines.
We should throw away our throw-away lifestyles.

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COMMENTS

How to Write an Argumentative Essay
Examples of argumentative essay prompts At a university level, all the prompts below imply an argumentative essay as the appropriate response. Your research should lead you to develop a specific position on the topic. The essay then argues for that position and aims to convince the reader by presenting your evidence, evaluation and analysis.
3 Strong Argumentative Essay Examples, Analyzed
Its purpose is to persuade the reader to agree with the argument being made. A good argumentative essay will use facts and evidence to support the argument, rather than just the author's thoughts and opinions. For example, say you wanted to write an argumentative essay stating that Charleston, SC is a great destination for families.
Persuasive Writing Strategies and Tips, with Examples
Matt Ellis Updated on June 2, 2022 Students Persuasive writing is any written work that tries to convince the reader of the writer's opinion. Aside from standard writing skills, a persuasive essay author can also draw on personal experience, logical arguments, an appeal to emotion, and compelling speech to influence readers.
30+ Persuasive Essay Examples
Persuasive Essay Examples For Students A persuasive essay aims to convince the reader of the author's point of view. To find the right path for your essay, it's helpful to go through some examples. Similarly, good essay examples also help to avoid any potential pitfalls and offer clear information to the readers to adopt.
Strong Thesis Statements
An argumentative or persuasive piece of writing must begin with a debatable thesis or claim. In other words, the thesis must be something that people could reasonably have differing opinions on. If your thesis is something that is generally agreed upon or accepted as fact then there is no reason to try to persuade people. ... Example of a non ...
PDF Developing an argument: being persuasive
This unit deals with how to develop your argument in an essay. So far in this module, we have looked at how to be analytical in the way you process information and ideas for an essay, how to ... words or phrases which you found most useful in showing that it was a persuasive argument. c) Of the two main forms of transport for people, buses are ...
Argumentative Essays
Argumentative Essays What is an argumentative essay? The argumentative essay is a genre of writing that requires the student to investigate a topic; collect, generate, and evaluate evidence; and establish a position on the topic in a concise manner. Please note: Some confusion may occur between the argumentative essay and the expository essay.
How to Write a Persuasive Essay: Tips and Tricks
Choose a position you're passionate about The first step in writing a persuasive essay is choosing a topic and picking a side. If the topic is something you believe in, it will make the entire experience of researching, writing, and arguing your perspective more personal.
Examples of Persuasive and Argumentative Essays
The following are decent examples of Persuasive / Argumentative Essays, designed to help you think about the form more deeply. They aren't "slam dunk" essays that guarantee an "A". In fact, we've given you some perspective on how writing instructors would view these examples.
The Four Main Types of Essay
Argumentative essays. An argumentative essay presents an extended, evidence-based argument. It requires a strong thesis statement—a clearly defined stance on your topic. Your aim is to convince the reader of your thesis using evidence (such as quotations) and analysis.. Argumentative essays test your ability to research and present your own position on a topic.
50 Free Persuasive Essay Examples (+BEST Topics)
What is a persuasive essay? A persuasive essay which is also called an argumentative essay is a type of written document that's academic in nature. Here, you use reason and logic to convince the reader of the legitimacy of your perspective. Therefore, you must use clear arguments and support these with logical reasons and compelling facts.
How to Write a Persuasive Essay: Expert Tips & Hints
17 min read A persuasive essay aims to cultivate students' capacity for convincing, arguing, and championing their points of view. Writing a persuasive essay, alternatively called argumentative, employs logic and reasoning to demonstrate the superiority of one idea over another.
35 Persuasive Writing Examples (Speeches, Essays, and More)
35 Strong Persuasive Writing Examples (Speeches, Essays, Ads, and More) Learn from the experts. The more we read, the better writers we become. Teaching students to write strong persuasive essays should always start with reading some top-notch models. This round-up of persuasive writing examples includes famous speeches, influential ad ...
30 Best Persuasive Essay Examples
A Persuasive Essay or an Argumentative Essay is an essay in which you use logic and arguments to convince or persuade your readers to agree with a specific opinion or idea. Great persuasive essay examples employ excellent research and choice of words to strongly present the writer's opinion and convince the readers to agree with it.
113 Perfect Persuasive Essay Topics for Any Assignment
For example, you may passionately believe that mint chocolate chip ice cream is the best ice cream flavor (I agree!), but could you really write an entire essay on this? What would be your reasons for believing mint chocolate chip is the best (besides the fact that it's delicious)? How would you support your belief?
Persuasive Essays
Why? Questions like these can lead to a persuasive essay. A persuasive essay is a type of opinion writing that not only gives your opinion and support but also tries to convince the reader to agree with you (WritingCity, n.d.). In this chapter, you will write a persuasive essay that uses research to support your ideas. Reference: WritingCity ...
Sample Argumentative and Persuasive Writing Prompts
40 Topic Suggestions: Argument and Persuasion Dieting makes people fat. Romantic love is a poor basis for marriage. The war on terror has contributed to the growing abuse of human rights. High school graduates should take a year off before entering college. All citizens should be required by law to vote.
Persuasive Essay Examples (With Counterarguments!)
An example of a persuasive essay and its subsequent counterargument could look like this: Thesis statement: The Government should allow refugees to live in our country if they risked their lives trying to get here and have nowhere else to go. Your Argument: It is a humane and ethical thing to do.
130 New Prompts for Argumentative Writing
What topics do you find yourself discussing passionately, whether online, at the dinner table, in the classroom or with your friends?
100 Persuasive Essay Topics
Beginner Kids should get paid for good grades. Students should have less homework. Snow days are great for family time. Penmanship is important. Short hair is better than long hair. We should all grow our own vegetables. We need more holidays. Aliens probably exist. Gym class is more important than music class. Kids should be able to vote.
Argumentative and Persuasive Essay Examples
Stuck on your essay? Browse Argumentative and Persuasive Essay examples and find inspiration. Learn by example and become a better writer with Kibin's suite of essay help services.
Persuasive Essay Examples
Persuasive Essay Examples. 257 samples in this category. Persuasive essays hold the remarkable ability to sway minds and ignite change through the power of conviction. With their clear arguments and compelling evidence, these essays aim to influence readers to adopt a particular viewpoint or take action.
Lord of the Flies': Persuasive Essay
Argument 2 - Power must be in the right hands. Power in the right hands is a crucial lesson taught in lord of the Flies because it teaches the audience how if it is wrongly used, violence, abuse and the destruction of civilization will occur. When Jack possesses power, we see the most destruction. He uses the power to cause fear and deception ...
Argumentative Essay Writing
Argumentative essays are persuasive essays that use facts and evidence to support their side of the argument. Most argumentative essays follow either the Toulmin model or the Rogerian model. By reading good argumentative essay examples, you can learn how to develop your essay and provide enough support to make readers agree with your opinion.
Argumentative/Persuasive Essays Topics: 200 Fresh Ideas
Looking for persuasive and argumentative essay topics? 200 great ideas for your persuasive and argumentative essays at your disposal. Check out this great list of freshest topics!

30+ Free Persuasive Essay Examples To Get You Started

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Argumentative Essays

Welcome to the Purdue OWL

What is an argumentative essay?

A complete argument

The five-paragraph essay

Longer argumentative essays

How to Write a Persuasive Essay

Choose a position you’re passionate about

Thoroughly research both sides

Draft your thesis statement

Create a working structure or outline

Write with integrity and empathy

Examples of Persuasive and Argumentative Essays

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Define the KEY WORDS that are Crucial to Your Argument

Analyzing Your Audience – the First Rule of Effective Writing

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How to Write a Persuasive Essay: Detailed Guide

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Argumentative vs Persuasive Essay

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How to Shape a Powerful Persuasive Argument

How to Support Your Argument

Take Your Persuasive Writing to the Next Level!

How to Write a Persuasive Essay: Step-by-Step

Choose a Topic That Ignites Your Passion

Engage in Thorough Research

Understand Your Audience

Create a Detailed Outline

Craft a Captivating Introduction

Develop Your Body Paragraphs

Conclude Powerfully

Proofread Diligently

Writing a Persuasive Essay: Essential Tips

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Professions for Women by Virginia Woolf

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Persuasive Speech Writing Examples

I Have a Dream by Dr. Martin Luther King Jr.