Being very similar to a persuasive essay, a position essay allows you to address both sides of an issue and then defend one of the positions. Often times a position essay is written in response to an article or a real-life event. One of the things that set a position essay apart from other essays is that it blends well-researched facts with the well-defended position of you. The main goal of writing a position essay is to convince the reader that your point of view is more valid and better supported than other positions. This will be done through detail-oriented research and fluid writing. Keep subjectivity out of the essay and ensure that each point in a position essay is supported by evidence.

How to Write a Position Essay

The first step in writing a position essay is to select a topic that has clearly defined differing opinions. If this essay is for a class, often the topic will be given to you. Steer away from vague topics, however, as these topics will not interest the reader. After the topic is picked, you (even if he or her position is already known) must research both sides of the issue. When representing the opposite opinion, make sure that it is the basic common opinion that is being represented. Once the research is done, you need to come up with a strong thesis and outline the rest of the essay. Make sure that points and arguments are clearly laid out and have a logical progression. You are encouraged to both take a side and argue it through writing. Another element of a position essay that needs attention in the writing is how to present the opposing argument. Avoid undercutting the opposing argument in its presentation. The point is to argue for your position. Do not destroy your credibility by being unnecessarily negative about the opposing view.

Outline Template

Introduction

• Provide background on the topic
• Present a strong thesis that supports one side of the issue

Body

• Argue the points that support position and thesis
• Fairly present opposing viewpoints

Conclusion

• Recap thesis
• Focus on key points

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