Types of Persuasive Essays

Types of Persuasive Essays

Here are the different types of persuasive essays: 
 

1. Argumentative Essays

Argumentative essays give authors and scholars the chance to convince their readers that there is something new in their research area that needs to be considered. This is likely to be a result of the collection of data by the author. 

Argumentative essays are the most popular type of essay at the college and university level. A well-written argumentative essay improves the scholar’s credibility and authority in the respective field of research.

The Purpose of an Argumentative Essay

• An argumentative essay’s primary purpose is to add value to the existing literature in any given area of study.
• It involves in-depth research and consideration of the opinions of others.
• Arguments are backed by evidence.
• Argumentative essays are generally longer than other types of essays.
• The author should have implications and recommendations for other academicians in the future; they should be original and clearly positioned in existing debates surrounding the essay topic.

What is the Role of the Author in an Argumentative Essay?
The role of the author in an argumentative essay is significant. Based on a given thesis statement, the writer is required to demonstrate that their own opinions and viewpoints should be considered a new approach, and focus on how this new approach will add value to the existing literature.
This type of essay should be based on rational thinking, with an objective approach from the author. Logic and evidence should take precedence.

2. Expository Essays

Expository essays are a type of persuasive essay that helps to persuade the readers to believe the conclusions of the author through a critical evaluation of the literature material. It should present a balanced and objective argument using readily available material on the topic. 

The word ‘expository’ is from the word ‘expose’, meaning to lay bare and reveal something. A likely part of your coursework, an expository essay reveals and discusses the evidence around the topic in question.

The Purpose of an Expository Essay

• All expository essays intend to grab the attention of the readers by presenting a unique discussion about a topic.
• You will be required to back your reasoning with solid evidence.
• As an author of an expository essay, you must demonstrate your ability to create an argumentative view and provide the necessary framework.
• You will be expected to showcase the ability to critically evaluate information.
• An expository essay must include the reasoning for the readers to accept your view as convincing and conclusive.

What is the Role of the Author in an Expository Essay?
The role of the author in an expository essay is substantial because they are expected to convince the readers that their findings on the topic are the most formidable. This can be achieved through a thoroughly critical and independent analysis.
The evidence the author presents for the argument should not be their own opinions, and the essay should not show research bias.
As the essay progresses, it should become clear that one viewpoint or set of evidence is the more convincing; it should not be achieved through the subjective view of the author. Therefore, you should not use the pronouns ‘I’ or ‘you’.

3. Discursive Essays

Discursive essays are a less common type of academic persuasive essay. They aim to convince the readers that there is another approach to a topic and that it is important to consider all sides of the debate before coming to any conclusion. It does not necessarily look at polarising for-and-against arguments, and there may be several competing, nuanced viewpoints.

If your tutor does not specifically state, “Write a discursive essay”, you can deduce the type of essay you are being asked to write from the thesis statement: It should not take any stance on the argument or ask you to do so. 

The Purpose of a Discursive Essay

• Discursive essays aim to discuss different viewpoints surrounding any given topic. 
• The views presented in discursive essays can be either taken from recognised arguments in existing studies or be the writer’s own.
• It should present both sides of an argument and then the author’s stance.
• It should be based on correct logic and interpretation.
• The author needs to showcase the ability to consider all views fairly and without any bias.

What is the Role of the Author in a Discursive Essay?
Discursive essays do not require the authors to play a significant role in terms of presenting their own views, except that they should clearly differentiate between the arguments of other scholars and act as a guide to opposing interpretations. The tone should be formal and balanced without the use of the personal pronouns ‘I’ and ‘you’.
The author should be impartial to the various viewpoints. The essay body should develop all sides of the argument equally, providing the same quantity of evidence in support of each. The conclusion should not deliver a definitive answer; it should leave the reader in the position of being able to weigh up the evidence.

4. Exegetical Essay

Exegetical essays help writers persuade their readers to understand a certain concept in a new light, allowing them to demonstrate their abilities to understand and interpret challenging topics. This type of essay is frequently used in the examination of religious writings, as many ancient religious texts are interpreted in different ways.

The structure of an exegetical essay is similar to that of other persuasive essays. It has an introduction, a main body, and a conclusion.

The Purpose of an Exegetical Essay

• Exegetical essays aim to provide an exegesis (correct interpretation) of the theories and viewpoints of other authors who have explored a particular topic in the past.
• Appraisal of arguments and theories on the topic is beyond the scope of this particular type of persuasive essay.
• The essay should provide reasoning, evidence, and logic concerning viewpoints and theories.

What is the Role of the Author in an Exegetical Essay?
The writer plays little to no role in exegetical essays because the aim is to present other authors’ views. The meaning of exegesis is to explain to the readers what the original writer said – to make it clearer and more accessible. It is not to argue, change, or add anything to that original view.

How to Choose the Right Type of Persuasive Essay?

Here is how you can choose the most suitable persuasive essay type: 

• Consider your topic: Deciding on your topic helps to choose an essay type. Is your topic straightforward or controversial? Topic selection is the best way to choose the correct essay approach. 
• Determine your audience: You must also think about the audience when choosing a persuasive essay topic. Determine whether they are neutral, opposed, or already supporting. 
• Think about your purpose: To choose a persuasive essay topic, you must also consider your purpose. Do you want to write an essay to win a debate, to analyse an issue deeply, to solve a problem, or just to find common ground?
• Assignment requirements: In case of a classroom assignment, check out your requirements. They will clearly and precisely point out what essay type you should be choosing. 

Struggling to Write Your Persuasive Essays?

Once you have chosen the right persuasive essay type, the next step is to write it. However, not every student is equipped with the skills, methods, and techniques to write a persuasive essay. In such a case, take persuasive essay help and get well-written essays, so you can perform well to influence others.
 

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