How to write a persuasive/argumentative essay?

Persuasive or argumentative essay has an aim to lead reader into accepting your way of thinking with the help of sound arguments, supporting facts and examples.

Some students find it difficult to write argumentative essays, because they realize that there is a counterargument for any argument. In fact, you must not be afraid to argue for thoughts that you don’t even share. The trick here is that in a persuasive essay, unlike in an open discussion, there is no opponent who will try to catch you in a trap. In an argumentative essay you can use any sound argument you want, and choose the counterarguments that you want to discredit. Do not try to write about all possible facts that support your opinion. Choose most convincing ones. Do not forget to use emotional appeal, add personal touch to your writing. Making reader cry over abandoned orphan children of an executed serial murdered can be the most convincing step in your persuasion about doubtful ethics of a death penalty. Remember though, that this approach is good for literature and composition courses, yet you might want to avoid personal examples and use more authoritative sources is you prepare an essay for specialized courses where your tutor would want to see more research and facts rather than emotions.

Do not forget to keep in mind the golden rule of introduction, body and conclusion. State your opinion clearly in the beginning. Present arguments in the body. Never present counterarguments without discrediting them in your essay. Summarize your findings in the end and stress the conclusion in the last sentence of your argumentative essay.