Guide on how to write rhetorical argument essays.
Logos, ethos, and pathos – these are the three modes of persuasion used in most argumentative papers, including the rhetorical argument essay. Its basics are pretty straightforward, and if you have previously encountered them, then let’s discuss some tips on how to write a rhetorical argument essay. Just keep in mind the modes of persuasion (logos, ethos, and pathos) and you’re all set.
Tip #1. Know your audience. To anticipate what mode of persuasion you will put more focus on, you’ll need to identify who your target readers are. For example, if your topic is about education of the youth, and if you need to convince parents who are emotionally invested in their children’s welfare, your arguments should focus more on “pathos”. In other words, your statements should generally appeal to the emotions of the parents who will read your rhetorical argument essay. For negative emotions, try to incite fear, apprehension, or doubt. For positive emotions, build up the sense of comfort, satisfaction, or safety.
Tip #2. But add a bit of the other modes as well. Even if you’ll focus your arguments more on, let’s say for example, “pathos,” try to add some “ethos” (appeal to character) and “logos” (appeal to logic) as well. This helps a degree of variety to your arguments while ensuring that other types of supporting statements are covered as well. However, don’t do this simply for the sake of variety. Make sure that the ethos and logos statements you are adding, for example, will contribute to the strength of your claim.
Tip #3. Nevertheless, avoid adding one mode with another. What we mean by this is that if you’re focusing on “logos” in your sequence of sentences, do not add “pathos” or “ethos” in between. Instead, just concentrate on your logical arguments throughout. This will prevent your essay from confusing your readers. The best way to do this is to devote each paragraph to only one mode of persuasion in your rhetorical argument essay. You can write as many paragraphs as needed, just allocate each paragraph to logos, pathos, or ethos to avoid losing the fluidity and focus of your arguments.
Tip #4. Remember that your goal is to convince your readers. Whatever mode of persuasion you are using in your rhetorical essay, bear in mind that your objective is to present your arguments with supporting data and analysis. Always refer back to your thesis statement to check if your ethos, pathos, or logos is still aligned with it. If your sentences are starting to lose track, rephrase them. Be direct to the point at the same time. This will help your readers develop the impression that you are serious with your topic.
In case you missed it, here is our article on how to write a rhetorical argument essay, and some essay examples that you can use. We’ve also discussed previously what a rhetorical argument is. Otherwise, you may hire our team to write one for you. Click the image below to find out more.
HIRE US and we'll write your papers for you!
Tip #1. Know your audience. To anticipate what mode of persuasion you will put more focus on, you’ll need to identify who your target readers are. For example, if your topic is about education of the youth, and if you need to convince parents who are emotionally invested in their children’s welfare, your arguments should focus more on “pathos”. In other words, your statements should generally appeal to the emotions of the parents who will read your rhetorical argument essay. For negative emotions, try to incite fear, apprehension, or doubt. For positive emotions, build up the sense of comfort, satisfaction, or safety.
Tip #2. But add a bit of the other modes as well. Even if you’ll focus your arguments more on, let’s say for example, “pathos,” try to add some “ethos” (appeal to character) and “logos” (appeal to logic) as well. This helps a degree of variety to your arguments while ensuring that other types of supporting statements are covered as well. However, don’t do this simply for the sake of variety. Make sure that the ethos and logos statements you are adding, for example, will contribute to the strength of your claim.
Tip #3. Nevertheless, avoid adding one mode with another. What we mean by this is that if you’re focusing on “logos” in your sequence of sentences, do not add “pathos” or “ethos” in between. Instead, just concentrate on your logical arguments throughout. This will prevent your essay from confusing your readers. The best way to do this is to devote each paragraph to only one mode of persuasion in your rhetorical argument essay. You can write as many paragraphs as needed, just allocate each paragraph to logos, pathos, or ethos to avoid losing the fluidity and focus of your arguments.
Tip #4. Remember that your goal is to convince your readers. Whatever mode of persuasion you are using in your rhetorical essay, bear in mind that your objective is to present your arguments with supporting data and analysis. Always refer back to your thesis statement to check if your ethos, pathos, or logos is still aligned with it. If your sentences are starting to lose track, rephrase them. Be direct to the point at the same time. This will help your readers develop the impression that you are serious with your topic.
In case you missed it, here is our article on how to write a rhetorical argument essay, and some essay examples that you can use. We’ve also discussed previously what a rhetorical argument is. Otherwise, you may hire our team to write one for you. Click the image below to find out more.
HIRE US and we'll write your papers for you!