No doubt, writing is a creative skill but there are some fixed writing rules that need to be followed to create compelling content. Everyone faces difficulties to become an expert in writing.
The writing procedure moves forward step by step like firstly you think of a word and then try to connect it with others to make a sentence. After structuring the sentence, you move to link sentences to create a paragraph.
Let's talk about a specific type of paragraph writing to make clear concepts. As you know, the common types of paragraphs may include descriptive, narrative, persuasive, expository and comparative paragraphs and many others. Each of them has different writing rules and objectives also.
Have a look on the importance of persuasive writing:
According to a study by the American Psychological Association, persuasive messages that appeal to people’s emotions and values are more likely to change attitudes and behaviors.
So, let’s explore together about writing a persuasive paragraph and discover just how impactful your words can be.
What makes the persuasive paragraphs more effective
Persuasive paragraphs are written to convince the readers by effective and compelling argumentations. This is the most convincing type of writing as compared to the other six types of paragraphs.
In this paragraph writing, you can satisfy the reader by using reasons, logic and also emotional arguments.
Let’s have a look at some key strategies to make the persuasive paragraphs more effective.
- You have to write the main idea of the topic in the introduction by using simple and easy words.
- The use of quotes, statistics, and references makes your argument more authentic and original.
- Make a good paragraph by maintaining the flow and consistency of the tone and mood in the text to make it more effective.
- You have to use simple sentence structure in the paragraphs to enhance its understanding that helps to make it more meaningful.
- Try to built-up emotional connection with logical reasoning to make your arguments valid.
- Make sure to prefer short paragraphs with easy words. Long paragraph creates complexity in the sentence structure and affects the readability of the narration.
5 steps to write an effective persuasive paragraph with examples
Now, we are going to know about the writing patterns, organizing structures and compelling conclusions that are helpful to create an effective paragraph.
Writing an effective persuasive paragraph requires some skill. But don't worry, with practice and by following these steps, you'll be convincing people left and right in no time.
1. Select the right and clear topic
The key is to choose a subject that you find interesting and have strong opinions on. Prefer to select the topic on which you have detailed knowledge with authentic logics and reasons. It will help you to convince the reader.
Let’s have an example like if you want to convince others on the point that descriptive writing style is different from narrative writing then, you definitely have to know about all the minimal things and writing rules about both writing types to state reasons and arguments.
2. Developing a clear thesis statement
The thesis statement is the one sentence in your paragraph that sums up the main point you want to make.
A good thesis is specific and straightforward, stating exactly what you plan to argue. It's a little bit tricky to write an authentic thesis statement to enhance clarity and authenticity.
You can take help from a paragraph generator to generate a clear, strong thesis statement for your ease. It's an online tool that provides various options to create your text accordingly. For example, if you want to create a persuasive paragraph in a professional tone, it can do that for you.
For example:
While technology offers educational benefits, excessive screen time negatively affects children's social skills and physical health.
3. Use of strong evidence to support arguments
Now you need to back up your thesis with solid proof. These could be facts, expert opinions, logical reasons, examples, or other evidence that supports your argument.
The more convincing your evidence, the harder it will be for someone to disagree. So, you have to use authentic quotes and statics with reference as supporting arguments.
4. Addressing counter arguments to clear point of view
When you include counter arguments in your writing it helps to indulge readers and increases their interest in reading. It's the easiest way to answer the issues with logical statements. This technique of using counter questions built-up emotional connection with the reader.
Sometimes it happens you need to justify what you are saying. You have to clarify the point of view of your writing accurately to enhance the effectiveness of the paragraph.
5. Strong conclusion for compelling end
Finally, finish with a strong conclusion. Restate your main idea in a new way. Encourage readers to agree with you. This is the last thing they'll remember, so make it convincing and memorable.
4 techniques for writing a persuasive paragraph more effective
Let’s talk about some technical writing techniques that remain helpful in writing persuasive paragraphs.
1. Pathos that must be appealing to emotions that touch your heart
Pathos is an artistic representation of the feelings to develop emotional connection with the reader. This technique of writing persuasive paragraphs is used to evoke the emotions or sentiments i.e joy, sympathy, hate, love, affection or fear etc.
Let’s make it more clear by having an example of a charity event. If you want to convenience the audience to participate in donating funds. You need to show them pictures of helpless children or a speech by a needy child to make them convinced.
In this way, you can use the technique of pathos to trigger the emotions of the audience and to support the augments.
2. Logos that must be explaining the logic and reason
Logos is about using logic and reason in your writing. It involves presenting clear facts, statistics, or logical arguments to support your point.
This technique is helpful to improve the authenticity and originality of your writing. You have to explain your arguments in detail and justify them by using valid reasons.
For example:
If you’re arguing that exercise is beneficial, you might provide data showing how regular exercise improves health and reduces the risk of disease.
You can say that logos are about convincing the audience by providing well-organized, correct and useful information.
3. Ethos for maintaining the credibility and trustworthiness
The most useful technique in writing is using ethos, it's about to built-up a trust that you are providing authentic and correct knowledge to them.
For example:
If a doctor talks about the benefits of a healthy diet, their expertise and experience lend credibility to their advice.
Ethos is about making your audience believe in your reliability and authority on the subject.
4. Use of rhetorical questions to make paragraphs effective
Certain rhetorical techniques can make your paragraphs extra persuasive and impactful. Repeating important phrases makes your point clear.
You have to use clear descriptions with comparisons to make your argument stick in people's minds and keep them interested.
For example:
A rhetorical question like "Don't all kids deserve recess?" gets the reader thinking along your lines.
Samples of persuasive writing
Here are examples of persuasive paragraphs:
Example 1: How technology impact on children
While technology offers some educational benefits, excessive screen time negatively impacts children's physical health, social skills, and overall well-being [Thesis statement].
Numerous studies have linked excessive technology use in childhood to obesity, poor sleep, behavioral issues, and struggles with face-to-face interaction. The American Academy of Pediatrics warns that children who spend more than 2 hours per day on recreational screen time show increased psychological difficulties [Supporting evidence].
Some may argue that technology is vital for education today, but even when used for learning, extended screen time remains problematic. Moderation and balance are key - technology should supplement traditional learning activities, not replace them entirely [Counter Arguments].
Research from UCLA found that 6-year-olds who went just 5 days without screen exposure were better able to recognize emotions and engage with others compared to their technology-consuming peers [Supporting evidence].
While judicious technology use has its place, parents must set firm limits on children's recreational screen time to support their health, mental well-being, and ability to thrive in interpersonal relationships. Excessive technology undermines too many crucial areas of childhood development [Conclusion].
Example 2: We need mandatory outdoor recess
All elementary schools must implement a mandatory daily outdoor recess period because it provides critical physical activity, boosts classroom focus, and teaches invaluable social skills [Thesis].
Experts agree that at least 60 minutes of daily exercise benefits kids' health. However, most youth fail to meet this due to inactivity. Recess ensures this exercise is achieved in a fun way. Studies also show recess helps kids expend restless energy and then concentrate better in class. Playing and talking with friends during recess helps us learn how to solve problems, work together, and get along with others. These skills are really important to learn better [Supporting evidence].
Some people say recess takes away from teaching time. However many schools found smart ways to schedule recess without losing teaching time. The good things about recess are much more than the bad [Counter Arguments].
Making recess mandatory is a smart idea to solve the problem of kids not moving enough. It also helps kids learn better and develop important skills for life. For all these reasons, it is an absolute necessity to support our children's growth and health [Conclusion].
Additional tips for writing an effective persuasive paragraph
Here are some additional tips for writing an effective persuasive paragraph:
- Start with an interesting fact or question that makes the reader really curious about your topic.
- Add some interesting facts in an entertaining way. This makes your writing more fun to read.
- Keep in notice to maintain the consistency and readability of the narratives by using simple and easy words or sentences.
- Use fancy words that really show your opinion. Like "awesome" for things you agree with, and "terrible" for things you don't.
- Think about the reader’s objections. Then give your reasons for why those objections aren't good ones.
- End with a strong conclusion that reminds the reader why your opinion is right. Leave them feeling convinced.
Final thoughts
Persuasive paragraphs help you in many areas of life. With this skill, you can convince others about your ideas in an engaging way. Persuasive writing is a powerful tool for argumentation by logical reasoning.
A good paragraph, with strong evidence and emotions, can change the mind of the reader and indulge them to read till the end.
Whether it's for school, work, or personal reasons, being good at persuasion is a big advantage. It helps you stand out and make your voice heard.
So, start practicing now. You'll see how much your influence grows as you get better at it.
Frequently asked questions
Is persuasive writing only about argumentation?
Persuasive is a writing type that is used to convince the audience through compelling argumentations with logical reasoning.
What are the main techniques used in persuasive writing?
The technical techniques include pathos, logos and ethos. It enhances the credibility and authenticity of your writing.
Name some important steps to follow while writing a persuasive paragraph?
You have to select a topic and write a clear and concise introduction. Then use strong evidence to support the arguments along counter questions. Don’t forget to write a compelling and strong conclusion.