Once you have completed your outline and are satisfied with it, you’re ready to write a first draft of your persuasive argument. This is where you “connect the dots” and write out your ideas as full sentences and paragraphs.

The following are suggestions when you write your first draft:

Write one paragraph for each of your main ideas. Each paragraph should clearly support your position. You should have at least 3 paragraphs.

  • Try to use facts wherever you can, rather than just opinions. Facts are powerful persuaders.

  • Introduce the counterarguments then show why your arguments are better. You should have at least one counterargument.

  • Save your best argument for your final paragraph.

  • Connect your arguments with transition words like however, furthermore, and in addition. Or you could number your points, e.g., firstly, secondly, etc. Here’s a list of commonly used transitional words and phrases:

and

unlike

in contrast

in other words

sometimes

but

however

furthermore

to sum up

in addition

or

yet

on the other hand

consequently

besides

while

unless

similarly

first

likewise

although

therefore

because

next

for instance

Begin writing your first draft now! Once you have done so, upload your draft to the Persuasive Easy Dropbox.