Persuasive Writing Techniques

Persuasion isn't just about being right; it's about how you make people feel. This technique is called Pathos, or an emotional appeal. Advertisers use Pathos to make you feel happy, sad, or even excited so you'll buy their product. Think of a commercial with a lonely puppy—that's an emotional appeal designed to make you want to help. When you use Pathos, you connect with your audience's heart. However, relying only on feelings can sometimes make an argument seem weak if there is no proof to back it up.

While feelings are strong, smart audiences need evidence. This is Logos, or the use of logic and facts. If you say, 'We should have more recess because it's fun,' that is an opinion. But if you say, 'Research shows that $20$ minutes of exercise improves student focus by $15\%$,' you are using Logos. Facts are like the foundation of a house; they keep your argument from falling over. A strong argument usually balances both Pathos and Logos to be truly convincing.

To make your argument 'pop,' you need persuasive adjectives. These are descriptive words that add weight to your claims. Instead of saying a plan is 'good,' call it revolutionary or essential. Instead of saying a problem is 'bad,' call it disastrous or urgent. These words act like a highlighter, drawing the reader's attention to the most important parts of your message and making your voice sound more confident.