An Overview of a Persuasive Essay
Persuasive essays are some of the most common assignments in different learning institutions. They are sometimes referred to as argument essays. Ordinarily, such essays require the writer to assume a certain position in favor of or against a certain topic or idea. Writing these essays demands effective communication skills and the proper use of persuasive language. Examiners are equally interested in seeing how well ideas in the essay are articulated. This is not always an easy task for the scholars. For this reason, it is important to understand the basic defining attributes of a persuasive essay as well as the right approach. This is as expounded on here below.
Features of a Good Persuasive Essay
A good persuasive essay if defined by some features. Such features although not particularly quite explicit, they should in one form or another present themselves in the essay. These features include:
a) It should represent a specific position. In this, the essay should express the writer’s position regarding a specific issue. This is in tandem with the purpose of the essay and the solution the essay provides for the problem at hand.
b) It should be founded on solid evidence. The persuasive essay should indicate an extensive research on the topic issue under study. This demands an illustration of knowledge that goes beyond an individual’s experience. It requires a library research or conducting interviews.
c) When writing the essay, the writer must illustrate an understanding of the right target audience. Persuasive essays must target specific audience and seek to effectively communicate the intended message. This extends to the use of appropriate language and vocabularies.
d) The persuasive essay should assume the appropriate structure. The structure for such essays encompasses such considerations as the purpose, necessary evidence, target audience, and the topic under study.
The Process of Writing a Persuasive Essay
Approach in writing a persuasive essay is key in the realization of essay objectives. This approach could entail several steps that may include:
a) The first step entails an evaluation of the essay topic. This entails brainstorming on the essay topic to determine the various perspectives the essay could assume. This is important in determining the position the writer should adopt.
b) Generating a thesis statement should the next important step. This is important in giving the essay a direction and premise. It shapes the argument of the essay as it reflects the opinion of the writer.
c) Coming up with the essay’s hook is another important step. The hook entails the first sentence of the essay. It usually takes the form of a quotation, an anecdote, a fact, a question, a funny statement, or a definition.
d) Structuring the essay follows as the successive step. This involves developing the essay into an introduction, body, and conclusion.
