Persuasive essays, also called written arguments, are among the most common writing assignments and are used across the curriculum. Yet, despite their common use, many students struggle with the basics of creating a compelling, persuasive argument. Focusing on the four keys to persuasive writing, this booklet uses a step-by-step method to start with an assignment and end with a final draft. By following the clear examples and relying on the included templates, the writer will be able to generate a solid piece of persuasive writing on any topic. Table of Contents: How to Use This Booklet A Special Note about Rogerian Argument Step One: Understand the Assignment Step Two: The Working Outline Step Three: The Thesis Statement Checklist: Eight Things That Can Change Your Grade Step Four: The Introductory Paragraph Step Five: Body Paragraphs Checklist: How to Test Paragraph Organization and Development Step Six: Counter-Arguments Step Seven: Refutations Step Eight: The Conclusion Paragraph Step Nine: The Final Draft The First Layer: Revising Out Loud The Second Layer: Sentence Triage The Third Layer: "Find" Searches Fourth Layer: The Fine Points
