Writing to Persuade: Form, Tone, Register

Writing to Persuade: Form

When planning the form of your persuasive writing, begin with a solid standpoint on the issue at hand. This position should be stated clearly in the introduction and consistently backed up throughout your piece.
Organization and structure are crucial. Divide your points into manageable sections, each with its own paragraph. Every paragraph should contain a new argument or piece of evidence that supports your position.
Use the introduction to engage your readers with the topic and provide a clear statement of your argument. Use rhetorical questions or intriguing statements to hook the reader.
Your body paragraphs should each contain a clear point related to your argument, explained and supported with evidence. A range of persuasive techniques should be used throughout.
The conclusion should summarise all points made, reaffirm your stance and provide a strong, memorable ending that leaves the reader thinking about your argument.

The tone of a persuasive text should be passionate, confident, and assertive. It should leave no room for doubt in the minds of your readers.
Although passion and emotion can strengthen your argument, it’s important to maintain balanced and rational arguments. Never let your tone become too emotional or aggressive.
Strive for a tone that is engaging and invites your reader into a conversation rather than dictating at them.
Use language that invites the reader to agree with you. This can include inclusive language such as ‘we’ and ‘us’, and the use of direct address.
Employ techniques such as rhetorical questions to challenge readers and provoke thought.

Persuasive writing generally uses a formal register, with standard English and proper grammar. However, depending on your audience, sometimes a semi-formal or even informal register can be used effectively.
Always use a consistent register throughout your piece. If you start formally, keep the entire document formal.
Be mindful of your audience when choosing your register. If you’re writing for a younger audience, for example, an informal or semi-formal register may be more effective.
Decorative or emotive language may be used to build a powerful picture in the reader’s mind. This can be particularly effective in persuasive appeals.
The use of first-person pronouns (‘I’ and ‘we’) is common in persuasive writing to build a connection with the reader.