There are three common types of persuasive essays: opinion, problem-solution and pro-con. An opinion essay gives the writer's outlook and personal beliefs on a topic. The information can't be verified as fact. In a problem-solution essay the writer tells readers of a serious problem and convinces them that he has a viable solution. A pro-con essay also employs a persuasive writing style. The writer presents arguments for and against a situation and strongly proposes his opinion.
The subject of a persuasive paper should be one that interests and rouses emotion in the writer. It must be a serious, debatable matter, not just a personal opinion. The beginning paragraph of the essay presents the topic to readers. The author provides background information on the issue or controversy. He determines the strongest arguments to support his opinion and focuses readers on the three main points that he will develop. The introduction includes a strong, clear statement of the writer's viewpoint.
The body of the essay typically contains three paragraphs that outline key points. The main reasons for the writer's opinion make up the topic sentences for these paragraphs. The reasons are prioritized, building toward the strongest argument. Each paragraph must contain well-researched facts, statistics and examples as supporting details for the main ideas. Quotes from expert sources are effective in persuading readers. The writer should stay focused on his viewpoint throughout the body of the essay.
Effective persuasive writing generally includes one paragraph devoted to points of view that differ from the author's. The writer refutes the most significant opposing opinions and raises legitimate objections to them. He relies on facts to clarify his objections to readers. The writer gains the readers' confidence by convincing them that these conflicting ideas are not based on sound reasoning.
The last paragraph of a persuasive essay uses commanding verbs and active voice to summarize the main idea and supporting details. It reflects on the importance of the topic and tells readers of consequences that might result if they don't follow the writer's advice. The ending paragraph is a call to action, convincing readers to think or act in a certain way. Readers should feel connected to the topic and persuaded by the content. At best, they will completely agree with the writer--or at least believe that his opinions have value.