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Course Assignments

What is a Persuasive Essay?

A persuasive essay is one in which you attempt to get the reader to agree with your point of view. You are trying to present arguments, research, and ideas to sway the reader one way or the other.  

Parts of a Persuasive Essay

  • Thesis statement: The argument or the point you are trying to make is found in your introduction.
  • Introduction:  This paragraph describes the problem, why the audience should care, and the point you are trying to make (your thesis statement). 
  • Counterargument:  The counterargument or the argument opponents of your point of view will hold, should be included early in your essay.  It is important to present the argument fairly.  Be sure to refute the counterargument with your main objections to it.
  • Body paragraphs:  These paragraphs support your thesis with evidence from credible resources.
  • Conclusion:  This paragraph summarizes your essay's main points and restates the thesis.