How to Write a Point of View Essay
A point of view essay, also known as a persuasive essay, is written to convince others to share the author's point of view. It follows the typical essay format of introductory paragraph, body paragraphs and closing paragraph. A point of view essay can be written about almost anything, as long as it's possible to have an opinion on it. Many editorials in newspapers, for example, are really just versions of the persuasive essay.
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Instructions
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Write the Essay
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1
Research your topic. Knowing your opinion is fine, but knowing facts to back up your opinion is even better. If your opinion is about a book, write down some relevant quotes and page numbers. If it's about a current event, read some newspapers.
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2
Write the introduction. Discuss background information on your essay's topic, then clearly state your point of view.
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3
Write the body of the essay. Write a paragraph for each main point of your argument. Usually three of these are sufficient. The final body paragraph should explain the main argument of the opposing viewpoint and why it is wrong.
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4
Write the conclusion. This final paragraph should creatively restate your point of view and its supporting points.
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5
Edit your essay. Print your point of view essay and use a colored pencil to edit mistakes. While this is possible to do on the computer, sometimes the change allows us to see mistakes that we missed on the screen.
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Fix your mistakes. Fix any problems with the essay on the computer, using your printed and edited copy as a guide.
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Tips & Warnings
Keep your audience in mind as you write. A point of view essay for an English literature class should have a different tone than one written for the school newspaper.
Don't forget the research. Even if you feel very sure about your topic, it never hurts to have facts and figures to back it up.
