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Do you need to write a persuasive essay but aren’t sure what topic to focus on? Were you thrilled when your teacher said you could write about whatever you wanted but are now overwhelmed by the possibilities? We’re here to help!

Read on for a list of 113 top-notch persuasive essay topics, organized into ten categories. To help get you started, we also discuss what a persuasive essay is, how to choose a great topic, and what tips to keep in mind as you write your persuasive essay.

What Is a Persuasive Essay?

In a persuasive essay, you attempt to convince readers to agree with your point of view on an argument. For example, an essay analyzing changes in Italian art during the Renaissance wouldn’t be a persuasive essay, because there’s no argument, but an essay where you argue that Italian art reached its peak during the Renaissance would be a persuasive essay because you’re trying to get your audience to agree with your viewpoint.

Persuasive and argumentative essays both try to convince readers to agree with the author, but the two essay types have key differences. Argumentative essays show a more balanced view of the issue and discuss both sides. Persuasive essays focus more heavily on the side the author agrees with. They also often include more of the author’s opinion than argumentative essays, which tend to use only facts and data to support their argument.

All persuasive essays have the following:

  • Introduction: Introduces the topic, explains why it’s important, and ends with the thesis.
  • Thesis: A sentence that sums up what the essay be discussing and what your stance on the issue is.
  • Reasons you believe your side of the argument: Why do you support the side you do? Typically each main point will have its own body paragraph.
  • Evidence supporting your argument: Facts or examples to back up your main points. Even though your opinion is allowed in persuasive essays more than most other essays, having concrete examples will make a stronger argument than relying on your opinion alone.
  • Conclusion: Restatement of thesis, summary of main points, and a recap of why the issue is important.

What Makes a Good Persuasive Essay Topic?

Theoretically, you could write a persuasive essay about any subject under the sun, but that doesn’t necessarily mean you should. Certain topics are easier to write a strong persuasive essay on, and below are tips to follow when deciding what you should write about.

It’s a Topic You Care About

Obviously, it’s possible to write an essay about a topic you find completely boring. You’ve probably done it! However, if possible, it’s always better to choose a topic that you care about and are interested in. When this is the case, you’ll find doing the research more enjoyable, writing the essay easier, and your writing will likely be better because you’ll be more passionate about and informed on the topic.

You Have Enough Evidence to Support Your Argument

Just being passionate about a subject isn’t enough to make it a good persuasive essay topic, though. You need to make sure your argument is complex enough to have at least two potential sides to root for, and you need to be able to back up your side with evidence and examples. Even though persuasive essays allow your opinion to feature more than many other essays, you still need concrete evidence to back up your claims, or you’ll end up with a weak essay.

For example, you may passionately believe that mint chocolate chip ice cream is the best ice cream flavor (I agree!), but could you really write an entire essay on this? What would be your reasons for believing mint chocolate chip is the best (besides the fact that it’s delicious)? How would you support your belief? Have enough studies been done on preferred ice cream flavors to support an entire essay? When choosing a persuasive essay idea, you want to find the right balance between something you care about (so you can write well on it) and something the rest of the world cares about (so you can reference evidence to strengthen your position).

It’s a Manageable Topic

Bigger isn’t always better, especially with essay topics. While it may seem like a great idea to choose a huge, complex topic to write about, you’ll likely struggle to sift through all the information and different sides of the issue and winnow them down to one streamlined essay. For example, choosing to write an essay about how WWII impacted American life more than WWI wouldn’t be a great idea because you’d need to analyze all the impacts of both the wars in numerous areas of American life. It’d be a huge undertaking. A better idea would be to choose one impact on American life the wars had (such as changes in female employment) and focus on that. Doing so will make researching and writing your persuasive essay much more feasible.

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List of 113 Good Persuasive Essay Topics

Below are over 100 persuasive essay ideas, organized into ten categories. When you find an idea that piques your interest, you’ll choose one side of it to argue for in your essay. For example, if you choose the topic, “should fracking be legal?” you’d decide whether you believe fracking should be legal or illegal, then you’d write an essay arguing all the reasons why your audience should agree with you.

Arts/Culture

  • Should students be required to learn an instrument in school?
  • Did the end of Game of Thrones fit with the rest of the series?
  • Can music be an effective way to treat mental illness?
  • With e-readers so popular, have libraries become obsolete?
  • Are the Harry Potter books more popular than they deserve to be?
  • Should music with offensive language come with a warning label?
  • What’s the best way for museums to get more people to visit?
  • Should students be able to substitute an art or music class for a PE class in school?
  • Are the Kardashians good or bad role models for young people?
  • Should people in higher income brackets pay more taxes?
  • Should all high school students be required to take a class on financial literacy?
  • Is it possible to achieve the American dream, or is it only a myth?
  • Is it better to spend a summer as an unpaid intern at a prestigious company or as a paid worker at a local store/restaurant?
  • Should the United States impose more or fewer tariffs?
  • Should college graduates have their student loans forgiven?
  • Should restaurants eliminate tipping and raise staff wages instead?
  • Should students learn cursive writing in school?
  • Which is more important: PE class or music class?
  • Is it better to have year-round school with shorter breaks throughout the year?
  • Should class rank be abolished in schools?
  • Should students be taught sex education in school?
  • Should students be able to attend public universities for free?
  • What’s the most effective way to change the behavior of school bullies?
  • Are the SAT and ACT accurate ways to measure intelligence?
  • Should students be able to learn sign language instead of a foreign language?
  • Do the benefits of Greek life at colleges outweigh the negatives?
  • Does doing homework actually help students learn more?
  • Why do students in many other countries score higher than American students on math exams?
  • Should parents/teachers be able to ban certain books from schools?
  • What’s the best way to reduce cheating in school?
  • Should colleges take a student’s race into account when making admissions decisions?
  • Should there be limits to free speech?
  • Should students be required to perform community service to graduate high school?
  • Should convicted felons who have completed their sentence be allowed to vote?
  • Should gun ownership be more tightly regulated?
  • Should recycling be made mandatory?
  • Should employers be required to offer paid leave to new parents?
  • Are there any circumstances where torture should be allowed?
  • Should children under the age of 18 be able to get plastic surgery for cosmetic reasons?
  • Should white supremacy groups be allowed to hold rallies in public places?
  • Does making abortion illegal make women more or less safe?
  • Does foreign aid actually help developing countries?
  • Are there times a person’s freedom of speech should be curtailed?
  • Should people over a certain age not be allowed to adopt children?

Government/Politics

  • Should the minimum voting age be raised/lowered/kept the same?
  • Should Puerto Rico be granted statehood?
  • Should the United States build a border wall with Mexico?
  • Who should be the next person printed on American banknotes?
  • Should the United States’ military budget be reduced?
  • Did China’s one child policy have overall positive or negative impacts on the country?
  • Should DREAMers be granted US citizenship?
  • Is national security more important than individual privacy?
  • What responsibility does the government have to help homeless people?
  • Should the electoral college be abolished?
  • Should the US increase or decrease the number of refugees it allows in each year?
  • Should privately-run prisons be abolished?
  • Who was the most/least effective US president?
  • Will Brexit end up helping or harming the UK?

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  • What’s the best way to reduce the spread of Ebola?
  • Is the Keto diet a safe and effective way to lose weight?
  • Should the FDA regulate vitamins and supplements more strictly?
  • Should public schools require all students who attend to be vaccinated?
  • Is eating genetically modified food safe?
  • What’s the best way to make health insurance more affordable?
  • What’s the best way to lower the teen pregnancy rate?
  • Should recreational marijuana be legalized nationwide?
  • Should birth control pills be available without a prescription?
  • Should pregnant women be forbidden from buying cigarettes and alcohol?
  • Why has anxiety increased in adolescents?
  • Are low-carb or low-fat diets more effective for weight loss?
  • What caused the destruction of the USS Maine?
  • Was King Arthur a mythical legend or actual Dark Ages king?
  • Was the US justified in dropping atomic bombs during WWII?
  • What was the primary cause of the Rwandan genocide?
  • What happened to the settlers of the Roanoke colony?
  • Was disagreement over slavery the primary cause of the US Civil War?
  • What has caused the numerous disappearances in the Bermuda triangle?
  • Should nuclear power be banned?
  • Is scientific testing on animals necessary?
  • Do zoos help or harm animals?
  • Should scientists be allowed to clone humans?
  • Should animals in circuses be banned?
  • Should fracking be legal?
  • Should people be allowed to keep exotic animals as pets?
  • What’s the best way to reduce illegal poaching in Africa?
  • What is the best way to reduce the impact of global warming?
  • Should euthanasia be legalized?
  • Is there legitimate evidence of extraterrestrial life?
  • Should people be banned from owning aggressive dog breeds?
  • Should the United States devote more money towards space exploration?
  • Should the government subsidize renewable forms of energy?
  • Is solar energy worth the cost?
  • Should stem cells be used in medicine?
  • Is it right for the US to leave the Paris Climate Agreement?
  • Should athletes who fail a drug test receive a lifetime ban from the sport?
  • Should college athletes receive a salary?
  • Should the NFL do more to prevent concussions in players?
  • Do PE classes help students stay in shape?
  • Should horse racing be banned?
  • Should cheerleading be considered a sport?
  • Should children younger than 18 be allowed to play tackle football?
  • Are the costs of hosting an Olympic Games worth it?
  • Can online schools be as effective as traditional schools?
  • Do violent video games encourage players to be violent in real life?
  • Should facial recognition technology be banned?
  • Does excessive social media use lead to depression/anxiety?
  • Has the rise of translation technology made knowing multiple languages obsolete?
  • Was Steve Jobs a visionary or just a great marketer?
  • Should social media be banned for children younger than a certain age?
  • Which 21st-century invention has had the largest impact on society?
  • Are ride-sharing companies like Uber and Lyft good or bad for society?
  • Should Facebook have done more to protect the privacy of its users?
  • Will technology end up increasing or decreasing inequality worldwide?

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Tips for Writing a Strong Persuasive Essay

After you’ve chosen the perfect topic for your persuasive essay, your work isn’t over. Follow the three tips below to create a top-notch essay.

Do Your Research

Your argument will fall apart if you don’t fully understand the issue you’re discussing or you overlook an important piece of it. Readers won’t be convinced by someone who doesn’t know the subject, and you likely won’t persuade any of them to begin supporting your viewpoint. Before you begin writing a single word of your essay, research your topic thoroughly. Study different sources, learn about the different sides of the argument, ask anyone who’s an expert on the topic what their opinion is, etc. You might be tempted to start writing right away, but by doing your research, you’ll make the writing process much easier when the time comes.

Make Your Thesis Perfect

Your thesis is the most important sentence in your persuasive essay. Just by reading that single sentence, your audience should know exactly what topic you’ll be discussing and where you stand on the issue. You want your thesis to be crystal clear and to accurately set up the rest of your essay. Asking classmates or your teacher to look it over before you begin writing the rest of your essay can be a big help if you’re not entirely confident in your thesis.

Consider the Other Side

You’ll spend most of your essay focusing on your side of the argument since that’s what you want readers to come away believing. However, don’t think that means you can ignore other sides of the issue. In your essay, be sure to discuss the other side’s argument, as well as why you believe this view is weak or untrue. Researching all the different viewpoints and including them in your essay will increase the quality of your writing by making your essay more complete and nuanced.

Summary: Persuasive Essay Ideas

Good persuasive essay topics can be difficult to come up with, but in this guide we’ve created a list of 113 excellent essay topics for you to browse. The best persuasive essay ideas will be those that you are interested in, have enough evidence to support your argument, and aren’t too complicated to be summarized in an essay.

After you’ve chosen your essay topic, keep these three tips in mind when you begin writing:

  • Do your research
  • Make your thesis perfect
  • Consider the other side

What's Next?

Need ideas for a research paper topic as well? Our guide to research paper topics has over 100 topics in ten categories so you can be sure to find the perfect topic for you.

Thinking about taking an AP English class? Read our guide on AP English classes to learn whether you should take AP English Language or AP English Literature (or both!)

Deciding between the SAT or ACT? Find out for sure which you will do the best on . Also read a detailed comparison between the two tests .

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Christine graduated from Michigan State University with degrees in Environmental Biology and Geography and received her Master's from Duke University. In high school she scored in the 99th percentile on the SAT and was named a National Merit Finalist. She has taught English and biology in several countries.

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persuasive essay research paper topic

Persuasive Essay Topics - Top Choices

persuasive essay research paper topic

Did you know that persuasive essays are exercises in rhetoric and powerful tools for shaping opinions and influencing behaviors? With approximately 70% of students in the United States tasked with writing such essays at some point during their academic careers, brainstorming a compelling theme becomes of vital importance. 

As a persuasive essay writer , you have to pick the right subject that makes the difference between sparking lively debate and eliciting yawns from your audience. In this article, we’ll share a collection of persuasive essay topics that easily captivate readers and inspire thoughtful discourse and potential change.

The List of Persuasive Essay Topics

Browsing persuasive essay ideas can really benefit students in several ways. First, it helps them think critically by examining issues from different angles. Second, it broadens their knowledge about important things happening in the world. 

Plus, when they pick topics they're passionate about, writing becomes more enjoyable and their arguments stronger. Let's not forget that sample topics from our paper writing service also sharpen their communication skills, helping them express their ideas clearly and persuasively. So, let’s get started, shall we?

Good Persuasive Essay Topics

Finding a strong persuasive essay topic takes time and precision. Also, you need an action plan on how to research a topic as well. 

  • Should the voting age be lowered to 16?
  • Is mandatory community service beneficial for high school students?
  • Should the use of plastic bags be banned?
  • Is social media beneficial or harmful to society?
  • Should college athletes be paid for playing sports?
  • Should standardized testing be abolished in schools?
  • Is it ethical to keep animals in zoos?
  • Should the death penalty be abolished worldwide?
  • Is online learning more effective than traditional classroom learning?
  • Should the government provide free healthcare for all citizens?
  • Is climate change primarily caused by human activity?
  • Should genetically modified organisms (GMOs) be labeled in food products?
  • Is it ethical to use animals for scientific experimentation?
  • Should the use of cell phones be banned while driving?
  • Is homeschooling a better option than traditional schooling?

Get Pro Help and Boost Your Grades!

Hopefully this guide will help you discover good topics for a persuasive speech or essay and write a top-notch paper. Looking for more advice or professional help?

Persuasive Essay Topics for College

Advanced students on the lookout for persuasive essay topics for college will find the following ideas most interesting. 

  • Should college tuition fees be free for all students?
  • Is the grading system an effective measure of students' abilities?
  • Should colleges implement stricter policies against plagiarism?
  • Is it beneficial for colleges to adopt a pass/fail grading system?
  • Should colleges prioritize mental health services for students?
  • Is it fair for colleges to consider race or ethnicity in admissions decisions?
  • Should college athletes be allowed to profit from their likeness?
  • Is it important for colleges to offer courses on financial literacy?
  • Should colleges provide free menstrual products on campus?
  • Is it ethical for colleges to invest in fossil fuel companies?
  • Should colleges require students to take courses on diversity and inclusion?
  • Is online education as effective as traditional classroom learning in college?
  • Should colleges implement stricter policies to combat sexual assault on campus?
  • Is it beneficial for colleges to offer courses on sustainable living practices?
  • Should colleges prioritize funding for STEM programs over humanities programs?

Persuasive Essay Topics High School

In high school, topics for persuasive writing have to always be on point. If you’re stuck in writer’s block, we’re here to help!

  • Should high school students be required to pass a financial literacy course before graduating?
  • Is it important for high schools to provide comprehensive sex education?
  • Should the school day start later to accommodate teenage sleep patterns?
  • Is it beneficial for high schools to implement mandatory community service requirements for graduation?
  • Should high school students be allowed to choose their own curriculum?
  • Is it ethical for high schools to use surveillance cameras in classrooms and hallways?
  • Should high school athletes be subject to random drug testing?
  • Is it beneficial for high schools to offer courses on mental health and well-being?
  • Should high schools ban the use of cell phones during school hours?
  • Is it fair for high schools to implement dress codes or uniform policies?
  • Should high school students be allowed to leave campus for lunch?
  • Is it important for high schools to teach comprehensive LGBTQ+ education?
  • Should high schools require students to complete a certain number of hours of volunteer work to graduate?
  • Is it beneficial for high schools to offer courses on environmental sustainability?
  • Should high schools prioritize funding for arts and music programs?

Persuasive Essay Topics on Education

This academic domain offers many peculiar topic ideas for research. We’ve gathered the best themes that you can easily explore stress-free. But first, find out how to write a persuasive essay up to the mark.

  • Should standardized testing be replaced with alternative forms of assessment?
  • Is the traditional grading system effective in accurately measuring students' knowledge and abilities?
  • Should schools implement comprehensive sex education programs from an early age?
  • Is it important for schools to prioritize teaching emotional intelligence and mental health awareness?
  • Should technology be integrated into classrooms as a primary tool for learning?
  • Is homeschooling a viable alternative to traditional schooling?
  • Should schools provide free breakfast and lunch for all students, regardless of socioeconomic status?
  • Is the current curriculum adequately preparing students for the demands of the modern workforce?
  • Should financial literacy be a mandatory part of the school curriculum?
  • Is it beneficial for schools to offer classes on mindfulness and stress management?
  • Should arts and music programs receive equal funding and recognition as other academic subjects?
  • Is there a need for stricter regulations regarding bullying and harassment in schools?
  • Should schools prioritize teaching critical thinking skills over rote memorization?
  • Is there a need for more emphasis on environmental education and sustainability in schools?
  • Should schools provide comprehensive support services for students with learning disabilities?

persuasive essay topics

Persuasive Essay Topics on Society

Modern society faces plenty of challenges, which are a great source of inspiration for topic ideas.

  • Should the government provide universal basic income to all citizens?
  • Is social media usage contributing to a decline in mental health among young people?
  • Should hate speech be protected under freedom of speech laws?
  • Is gun control necessary to reduce gun violence in society?
  • Should the minimum wage be raised to a living wage?
  • Is healthcare a fundamental human right that should be guaranteed by the government?
  • Should affirmative action policies be implemented to address systemic inequalities?
  • Is police brutality a widespread problem that requires urgent reform?
  • Should the prison system focus more on rehabilitation rather than punishment?
  • Is immigration beneficial or harmful to the economy and society?
  • Should there be stricter regulations on the use of fossil fuels to combat climate change?
  • Is access to affordable housing a basic human right?
  • Should there be stricter regulations on the advertising of unhealthy foods and beverages?
  • Is the death penalty an effective deterrent to crime?
  • Should there be stricter regulations on the use of technology to protect privacy rights?

Persuasive Essay Topics on History

History provides a wealth of diverse and impactful events, figures, and societal changes that offer rich material for exploring lessons, controversies, and parallels with contemporary issues, making it an excellent source of ideas.

  • Should reparations be paid to descendants of enslaved individuals?
  • Was colonization a beneficial or detrimental force for indigenous peoples?
  • Should Confederate monuments and symbols be removed from public spaces?
  • Was the dropping of atomic bombs on Hiroshima and Nagasaki justified?
  • Should Columbus Day be replaced with Indigenous Peoples' Day?
  • Was the Civil Rights Movement successful in achieving its goals?
  • Should historical figures with controversial legacies be reevaluated and reassessed?
  • Was the Treaty of Versailles fair to Germany after World War I?
  • Should Holocaust denial be considered a form of hate speech?
  • Was the internment of Japanese Americans during World War II justified?
  • Should the United States apologize for its role in the transatlantic slave trade?
  • Was the feminist movement of the 20th century successful in achieving gender equality?
  • Should historical monuments and landmarks be preserved even if they represent controversial figures or events?
  • Was the policy of Manifest Destiny morally justified?
  • Should history textbooks be revised to provide a more inclusive and diverse narrative?

Persuasive Essay Topics About Social Issues

Social issues are a compelling source of persuasive essay topics because they touch upon fundamental aspects of human experience, ignite passionate debates, and prompt critical examination of societal norms and values.

  • Is universal basic income an effective solution to poverty?
  • Should hate speech be criminalized to protect marginalized groups?
  • Should stricter gun control laws be implemented to reduce gun violence?
  • Is the criminal justice system biased against racial minorities?
  • Should LGBTQ+ individuals have equal rights and protections under the law?
  • Is access to quality education a fundamental human right?
  • Is climate change primarily caused by human activity, and what measures should be taken to address it?
  • Should abortion be legal and accessible to all women?
  • Is income inequality a growing problem that needs to be addressed?
  • Should there be greater investment in mental health services and support?

Crime and Legal Persuasive Essay Topics

Crime and legal topics offer rich ground for persuasive essays due to their inherent complexity, moral ambiguity, and profound impact on individual rights, justice, and societal order.

  • Should the death penalty be abolished?
  • Is solitary confinement a humane form of punishment?
  • Should juveniles be tried as adults for serious crimes?
  • Is mandatory sentencing effective in reducing crime rates?
  • Should marijuana be legalized for recreational use?
  • Is racial profiling a legitimate law enforcement tactic?
  • Should there be stricter penalties for white-collar crimes?
  • Is the current bail system fair to low-income individuals?
  • Should police officers be required to wear body cameras?
  • Is the War on Drugs effective in addressing drug-related crime?
  • Should there be stricter regulations on gun ownership?
  • Is the three-strikes law an effective deterrent to repeat offenders?
  • Should hate crimes be punished more severely than other crimes?
  • Is plea bargaining a just and fair practice in the criminal justice system?
  • Should non-violent drug offenders be given alternative sentences, such as rehabilitation instead of incarceration?

Health Persuasive Essay Topics

Health is our biggest asset, so exploring topics related to medical aid or illnesses is a great move. If you need more essay topics , we have them here.

  • Should vaccination be mandatory for all children?
  • Is universal healthcare a fundamental human right?
  • Should junk food be banned in schools to combat childhood obesity?
  • Is access to clean drinking water a basic human right?
  • Should there be stricter regulations on the marketing of sugary drinks and snacks?
  • Is mental health education as important as physical health education in schools?
  • Should the government regulate the portion sizes of fast food items?
  • Is the use of electronic cigarettes (vaping) a safer alternative to smoking?
  • Should there be a tax on sugary beverages to discourage consumption?
  • Is access to contraception and family planning services a fundamental right for women?
  • Is healthcare a privilege or a commodity?
  • Should there be stricter regulations on the advertising of prescription medications?
  • Is the use of medical marijuana beneficial for treating certain medical conditions?

Women's and Gender Persuasive Essay Topics

Women's and gender issues are an excellent source of persuasive essay topics because they encompass fundamental questions of equality, identity, and justice.

persuasive essay topics

  • Should gender equality be actively promoted in all areas of society?
  • Is feminism still relevant in the 21st century?
  • Should there be greater representation of women in leadership positions?
  • Is gender-based violence a widespread problem that requires urgent attention?
  • Should there be equal pay for equal work regardless of gender?
  • Is maternity leave sufficient for working mothers, and should paternity leave be offered to fathers?
  • Should gender-neutral language be used to promote inclusivity?
  • Is body positivity an important movement for promoting self-acceptance regardless of gender?
  • Should transgender individuals have equal rights and protections under the law?
  • Is the objectification of women in media harmful to society?
  • Should sex education include comprehensive information on consent and healthy relationships?
  • Is the gender binary outdated, and should society embrace a more fluid understanding of gender identity?
  • Should there be greater access to reproductive healthcare services for women?
  • Is the beauty industry promoting unrealistic standards of beauty for women?
  • Should gender quotas be implemented to ensure equal representation in politics and corporate boards?

Ethics Persuasive Essay Topics

Every online essay writer knows that ethics provides a fertile ground for persuasive essay topics, prompting critical reflection on moral dilemmas, societal values, and the ethical implications of various actions and policies.

  • Should animal testing be banned in all industries?
  • Is using animals for entertainment, such as in circuses and zoos, ethical?
  • Should euthanasia be legalized for terminally ill patients?
  • Is it ethical to clone animals for scientific research or conservation purposes?
  • Should genetic engineering be used to modify human embryos?
  • Is it ethical to use artificial intelligence in decision-making processes?
  • Should genetic testing be mandatory for certain medical conditions?
  • Is it ethical to use sweatshop labor to produce goods?
  • Should there be limits on the amount of wealth individuals can accumulate?
  • Is it ethical to engage in cultural appropriation?
  • Should the use of performance-enhancing drugs in sports be allowed?
  • Is consuming products that harm the environment ethical, such as palm oil?
  • Should businesses prioritize profit over social and environmental responsibility?
  • Is it ethical to use personal data for targeted advertising?
  • Is it ethical to use technology to monitor citizens for security purposes?

Science Persuasive Essay Topics

Science offers a wealth of persuasive essay topics by exploring cutting-edge advancements, ethical dilemmas, and societal implications, fostering critical thinking and informed discourse on key issues shaping our world.

  • Should nuclear energy be promoted as a clean alternative to fossil fuels?
  • Is space exploration worth the investment of time and resources?
  • Should there be stricter regulations on the use of antibiotics in agriculture?
  • Is there a need for greater investment in renewable energy sources such as solar and wind power?
  • Should scientific research involving animals be subject to stricter ethical guidelines?
  • Is it ethical to use gene editing technologies such as CRISPR-Cas9 in humans?
  • Should there be stricter regulations on the use of pesticides in agriculture?
  • Is there a need for greater investment in stem cell research for medical purposes?
  • Should the use of plastic be banned to reduce pollution in the oceans?
  • Is there a need for greater investment in space exploration to protect Earth from potential asteroid impacts?
  • Should there be stricter regulations on using artificial intelligence to ensure ethical behavior?
  • Is there a need for greater investment in research on renewable energy storage technologies?
  • Should there be stricter regulations on the use of nanotechnology in consumer products?

Persuasive Essay Topics on AI Impact

Due to its transformative potential, ethical considerations, and societal implications, AI's impact provides a rich source of persuasive essay topics. Use our dissertation service if you require assistance with more complex papers rather than short compositions.

  • Should there be regulations on developing and using autonomous weapons powered by AI?
  • Is AI technology advancing faster than our understanding of potential risks and consequences?
  • Should there be guidelines for the ethical use of AI in the surveillance and monitoring of citizens?
  • Is AI exacerbating existing societal inequalities, such as access to employment and healthcare?
  • Should there be measures in place to prevent AI algorithms from perpetuating bias and discrimination?
  • Is AI technology contributing to job displacement and unemployment in certain industries?
  • Should there be transparency and accountability in the decision-making processes of AI systems?
  • Is AI technology enhancing or hindering privacy rights for individuals?
  • Should there be regulations on using AI in facial recognition technology by law enforcement agencies?
  • Is AI technology leading to the creation of safer autonomous vehicles than human-driven vehicles?
  • Should there be guidelines for the ethical use of AI in medical diagnosis and treatment?
  • Is AI technology posing risks to cybersecurity and data privacy?
  • Should there be regulations on the use of AI in predictive policing to prevent potential biases and abuses?
  • Is AI technology exacerbating misinformation and manipulation in online platforms and social media?
  • Should there be regulations on the use of AI in financial markets to prevent market manipulation and fraud?

Persuasive Essay Topics on Racism

Racism is an important and impactful source of persuasive essay topics because it addresses systemic injustices, societal inequalities, and ethical imperatives, fostering critical examination and advocacy for social change.

  • Should hate speech laws be strengthened to combat racism and discrimination?
  • Is affirmative action necessary to address systemic racism in education and employment?
  • Should there be greater representation of diverse voices in the media industry?
  • Is cultural appropriation harmful and perpetuates racism?
  • Should schools teach the contributions of marginalized communities?
  • Should there be reparations for descendants of enslaved individuals to address the legacy of slavery?
  • Is colorblindness an effective approach to addressing racism?
  • Should there be greater investment to build trust between law enforcement and communities of color?
  • Is there a need for anti-racism education and training in schools and workplaces?
  • Should there be stricter penalties for hate crimes motivated by racism?
  • Is there a need for greater diversity in leadership positions in the corporate and political spheres?
  • Should there be policies to address environmental racism?

Unique Persuasive Essay Ideas

Would you like to stand out from the rest of the classroom with a unique topic that sparks interest and fosters meaningful dialogue? Consider choosing one of these topics.

  • Should schools implement mandatory outdoor education to promote environmental awareness?
  • Is there a need for a universal basic income to address the rise of automation and job displacement?
  • Should there be a cap on the number of hours individuals can work per week to promote work-life balance?
  • Is it ethical to use virtual reality technology to enhance empathy and understanding?
  • Should there be regulations on using AI-generated content to prevent misinformation?
  • Is there a need for a global ban on single-use plastics to combat ocean pollution?
  • Should there be a tax on meat consumption to address environmental and public health concerns?
  • Is there a need for mandatory financial literacy education starting from elementary school?
  • Should there be incentives for companies to prioritize sustainability and environmental stewardship?
  • Is there a need for a standardized global curriculum to ensure equal access to quality education worldwide?
  • Should there be regulations on using facial recognition technology to protect privacy rights?
  • Is there a need for greater representation of Indigenous voices in mainstream media?
  • Should a universal declaration of digital rights protect individuals' privacy and autonomy online?
  • Should there be stricter regulations on advertising fast food and sugary beverages to children?
  • Should a ban on cosmetic animal testing to promote cruelty-free alternatives?

Final Thoughts

In conclusion, this article has presented a diverse array of persuasive essay topics, spanning from pressing social issues to the ethical implications of AI and beyond. It highlights the importance of engaging in critical discourse, fostering empathy, and advocating for positive change in our ever-evolving world.

At the same time, if you find yourself seeking assistance with your academic endeavors, remember that we can help you with your homework, ensuring you stay on top of your studies and coursework. Whether it's tackling complex essays or asking for support like ' do my homework ,' our resources are here to aid you on your academic journey.

What if Your Essay Could Change Minds and Transform Ideas?

Explore the endless possibilities of interesting persuasive essay topics that elevate your writing and inspire change.

How to Pick a Topic for a Persuasive Essay?

What are some topics for persuasive essay, what is a good persuasive essay.

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  • Added new topics.
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  • Morton. (2018, October 1). 101 Persuasive Essay and Speech Topics | Ereading Worksheets. Ereading Worksheets. https://www.ereadingworksheets.com/writing/persuasive-essay-topics/  
  • Education, J. S. B. S. E. (2023, September 27). 101 Interesting Persuasive Essay Topics for Kids and Teens. We Are Teachers. https://www.weareteachers.com/persuasive-essay-topics/
  • User, S. (n.d.-b). Persuasive Writing Topics - Ethos, Pathos, and Logos, the Modes of Persuasion ‒ Explanation and Examples. https://pathosethoslogos.com/9-persuasive-writing/7-persuasive-writing-topics  

Best Persuasive Speech Topics: 210 Engaging Ideas

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160 Good Argumentative Essay Topics for Students in 2024

April 3, 2024

The skill of writing an excellent argumentative essay is a crucial one for every high school or college student to master. In sum, argumentative essays teach students how to organize their thoughts logically and present them in a convincing way. This skill is helpful not only for those pursuing degrees in law , international relations , or public policy , but for any student who wishes to develop their critical thinking faculties. In this article, we’ll cover what makes a good argument essay and offer several argumentative essay topics for high school and college students. Let’s begin!

What is an Argumentative Essay?

An argumentative essay is an essay that uses research to present a reasoned argument on a particular subject . As with the persuasive essay , the purpose of an argumentative essay is to sway the reader to the writer’s position. However, a strong persuasive essay makes its point through diligent research and emotion while a strong argumentative essay should be based solely on facts, not feelings.

Moreover, each fact should be supported by clear evidence from credible sources . Furthermore, a good argumentative essay will have an easy-to-follow structure. When organizing your argumentative essay, use this format as a guide:

  • Introduction
  • Supporting body paragraphs
  • Paragraph(s) addressing common counterarguments

Argumentative Essay Format

In the introduction , the writer presents their position and thesis statement —a sentence that summarizes the paper’s main points. The body paragraphs then draw upon supporting evidence to back up this initial statement, with each paragraph focusing on its own point. The length of your paper will determine the amount of examples you need. In general, you’ll likely need at least two to three. Additionally, your examples should be as detailed as possible, citing specific research, case studies, statistics, or anecdotes.

In the counterargument paragraph , the writer acknowledges and refutes opposing viewpoints. Finally, in the conclusion , the writer restates the main argument made in the thesis statement and summarizes the points of the essay. Additionally, the conclusion may offer a final proposal to persuade the reader of the essay’s position.

How to Write an Effective Argumentative Essay, Step by Step

  • Choose your topic. Use the list below to help you pick a topic. Ideally, a good argumentative essay topic will be meaningful to you—writing is always stronger when you are interested in the subject matter. In addition, the topic should be complex with plenty of “pro” and “con” arguments. Avoid choosing a topic that is either widely accepted as fact or too narrow. For example, “Is the earth round?” would not be a solid choice.
  • Research. Use the library, the web, and any other resources to gather information about your argumentative essay topic. Research widely but smartly. As you go, take organized notes, marking the source of every quote and where it may fit in the scheme of your larger essay. Moreover, remember to look for (and research) possible counterarguments.
  • Outline . Using the argument essay format above, create an outline for your essay. Then, brainstorm a thesis statement covering your argument’s main points, and begin to put your examples in order, focusing on logical flow. It’s often best to place your strongest example last.
  • Write . Draw on your research and outline to create a first draft. Remember, your first draft doesn’t need to be perfect. (As Voltaire says, “Perfect is the enemy of good.”) Accordingly, just focus on getting the words down on paper.
  • Does my thesis statement need to be adjusted?
  • Which examples feel strongest? Weakest?
  • Do the transitions flow smoothly?
  • Do I have a strong opening paragraph?
  • Does the conclusion reinforce my argument?

Tips for Revising an Argument Essay

Evaluating your own work can be difficult, so you might consider the following strategies:

  • Read your work aloud to yourself.
  • Record yourself reading your paper, and listen to the recording.
  • Reverse outline your paper. Firstly, next to each paragraph, write a short summary of that paragraph’s main points/idea. Then, read through your reverse outline. Does it have a logical flow? If not, where should you adjust?
  • Print out your paper and cut it into paragraphs. What happens when you rearrange the paragraphs?

Good Argumentative Essay Topics for Middle School, High School, and College Students

Family argumentative essay topics.

  • Should the government provide financial incentives for families to have children to address the declining birth rate?
  • Should we require parents to provide their children with a certain level of nutrition and physical activity to prevent childhood obesity?
  • Should parents implement limits on how much time their children spend playing video games?
  • Should cell phones be banned from family/holiday gatherings?
  • Should we hold parents legally responsible for their children’s actions?
  • Should children have the right to sue their parents for neglect?
  • Should parents have the right to choose their child’s religion?
  • Are spanking and other forms of physical punishment an effective method of discipline?
  • Should courts allow children to choose where they live in cases of divorce?
  • Should parents have the right to monitor teens’ activity on social media?
  • Should parents control their child’s medical treatment, even if it goes against the child’s wishes?
  • Should parents be allowed to post pictures of their children on social media without their consent?
  • Should fathers have a legal say in whether their partners do or do not receive an abortion?
  • Can television have positive developmental benefits on children?
  • Should the driving age be raised to prevent teen car accidents?
  • Should adult children be legally required to care for their aging parents?

Education Argument Essay Topics

  • Should schools ban the use of technology like ChatGPT?
  • Are zoos unethical, or necessary for conservation and education?
  • To what degree should we hold parents responsible in the event of a school shooting?
  • Should schools offer students a set number of mental health days?
  • Should school science curriculums offer a course on combating climate change?
  • Should public libraries be allowed to ban certain books? If so, what types?
  • What role, if any, should prayer play in public schools?
  • Should schools push to abolish homework?
  • Are gifted and talented programs in schools more harmful than beneficial due to their exclusionary nature?
  • Should universities do away with Greek life?
  • Should schools remove artwork, such as murals, that some perceive as offensive?
  • Should the government grant parents the right to choose alternative education options for their children and use taxpayer funds to support these options?
  • Is homeschooling better than traditional schooling for children’s academic and social development?
  • Should we require schools to teach sex education to reduce teen pregnancy rates?
  • Should we require schools to provide sex education that includes information about both homosexual and heterosexual relationships?
  • Should colleges use affirmative action and other race-conscious policies to address diversity on campus?
  • Should public schools remove the line “under God” from the Pledge of Allegiance?
  • Should college admissions officers be allowed to look at students’ social media accounts?
  • Should schools abolish their dress codes, many of which unfairly target girls, LGBTQ students, and students of color?
  • Should schools be required to stock free period products in bathrooms?
  • Should legacy students receive preferential treatment during the college admissions process?
  • Are school “voluntourism” trips ethical?

Government Argumentative Essay Topics

  • Should the U.S. decriminalize prostitution?
  • Should the U.S. issue migration visas to all eligible applicants?
  • Should the federal government cancel all student loan debt?
  • Should we lower the minimum voting age? If so, to what?
  • Should the federal government abolish all laws penalizing drug production and use?
  • Should the U.S. use its military power to deter a Chinese invasion of Taiwan?
  • Should the U.S. supply Ukraine with further military intelligence and supplies?
  • Should the North and South of the U.S. split up into two regions?
  • Should Americans hold up nationalism as a critical value?
  • Should we permit Supreme Court justices to hold their positions indefinitely?
  • Should Supreme Court justices be democratically elected?
  • Is the Electoral College still a productive approach to electing the U.S. president?
  • Should the U.S. implement a national firearm registry?
  • Is it ethical for countries like China and Israel to mandate compulsory military service for all citizens?
  • Should the U.S. government implement a ranked-choice voting system?
  • Should institutions that benefited from slavery be required to provide reparations?
  • Based on the 1619 project, should history classes change how they teach about the founding of the U.S.?
  • Should term limits be imposed on Senators and Representatives? If so, how long?
  • Should women be allowed into special forces units?
  • Should the federal government implement stronger, universal firearm licensing laws?
  • Do public sex offender registries help prevent future sex crimes?
  • Should the government be allowed to regulate family size?
  • Should all adults legally be considered mandated reporters?
  • Should the government fund public universities to make higher education more accessible to low-income students?
  • Should the government fund universal preschool to improve children’s readiness for kindergarten?

Health/Bioethics Argumentative Essay Topics

  • Should the U.S. government offer its own healthcare plan?
  • In the case of highly infectious pandemics, should we focus on individual freedoms or public safety when implementing policies to control the spread?
  • Should we legally require parents to vaccinate their children to protect public health?
  • Is it ethical for parents to use genetic engineering to create “designer babies” with specific physical and intellectual traits?
  • Should the government fund research on embryonic stem cells for medical treatments?
  • Should the government legalize assisted suicide for terminally ill patients?
  • Should organ donation be mandatory?
  • Is cloning animals ethical?
  • Should cancer screenings start earlier? If so, what age?
  • Is surrogacy ethical?
  • Should birth control require a prescription?
  • Should minors have access to emergency contraception?
  • Should hospitals be for-profit or nonprofit institutions?

Good Argumentative Essay Topics — Continued

Social media argumentative essay topics.

  • Should the federal government increase its efforts to minimize the negative impact of social media?
  • Do social media and smartphones strengthen one’s relationships?
  • Should antitrust regulators take action to limit the size of big tech companies?
  • Should social media platforms ban political advertisements?
  • Should the federal government hold social media companies accountable for instances of hate speech discovered on their platforms?
  • Do apps such as TikTok and Instagram ultimately worsen the mental well-being of teenagers?
  • Should governments oversee how social media platforms manage their users’ data?
  • Should social media platforms like Facebook enforce a minimum age requirement for users?
  • Should social media companies be held responsible for cases of cyberbullying?
  • Should the United States ban TikTok?
  • Is social media harmful to children?
  • Should employers screen applicants’ social media accounts during the hiring process?

Religion Argument Essay Topics

  • Should religious institutions be tax-exempt?
  • Should religious symbols such as the hijab or crucifix be allowed in public spaces?
  • Should religious freedoms be protected, even when they conflict with secular laws?
  • Should the government regulate religious practices?
  • Should we allow churches to engage in political activities?
  • Religion: a force for good or evil in the world?
  • Should the government provide funding for religious schools?
  • Is it ethical for healthcare providers to deny abortions based on religious beliefs?
  • Should religious organizations be allowed to discriminate in their hiring practices?
  • Should we allow people to opt out of medical treatments based on their religious beliefs?
  • Should the U.S. government hold religious organizations accountable for cases of sexual abuse within their community?
  • Should religious beliefs be exempt from anti-discrimination laws?
  • Should religious individuals be allowed to refuse services to others based on their beliefs or lifestyles? (As in this famous case .)
  • Should the US ban religion-based federal holidays?
  • Should public schools be allowed to teach children about religious holidays?

Science Argument Essay Topics

  • Would the world be safer if we eliminated nuclear weapons?
  • Should scientists bring back extinct animals? If so, which ones?
  • Should we hold companies fiscally responsible for their carbon footprint?
  • Should we ban pesticides in favor of organic farming methods?
  • Should the federal government ban all fossil fuels, despite the potential economic impact on specific industries and communities?
  • What renewable energy source should the U.S. invest more money in?
  • Should the FDA outlaw GMOs?
  • Should we worry about artificial intelligence surpassing human intelligence?
  • Should the alternative medicine industry be more stringently regulated?
  • Is colonizing Mars a viable option?
  • Is the animal testing worth the potential to save human lives?

Sports Argument Essay Topics

  • Should colleges compensate student-athletes?
  • How should sports teams and leagues address the gender pay gap?
  • Should youth sports teams do away with scorekeeping?
  • Should we ban aggressive contact sports like boxing and MMA?
  • Should professional sports associations mandate that athletes stand during the national anthem?
  • Should high schools require their student-athletes to maintain a certain GPA?
  • Should transgender athletes compete in sports according to their gender identity?
  • Should schools ban football due to the inherent danger it poses to players?
  • Should performance-enhancing drugs be allowed in sports?
  • Do participation trophies foster entitlement and unrealistic expectations?
  • Should sports teams be divided by gender?
  • Should professional athletes be allowed to compete in the Olympics?
  • Should women be allowed on NFL teams?

Technology Argumentative Essay Topics

  • Should sites like DALL-E compensate the artists whose work it was trained on?
  • Should the federal government make human exploration of space a more significant priority?
  • Is it ethical for the government to use surveillance technology to monitor citizens?
  • Should websites require proof of age from their users? If so, what age?
  • Should we consider A.I.-generated images and text pieces of art?
  • Does the use of facial recognition technology violate individuals’ privacy?
  • Is online learning as effective as in-person learning?
  • Does computing harm the environment?
  • Should buying, sharing, and selling collected personal data be illegal?
  • Are electric cars really better for the environment?
  • Should car companies be held responsible for self-driving car accidents?
  • Should private jets be banned?
  • Do violent video games contribute to real-life violence?

Business Argument Essay Topics

  • Should the U.S. government phase out the use of paper money in favor of a fully digital currency system?
  • Should the federal government abolish its patent and copyright laws?
  • Should we replace the Federal Reserve with free-market institutions?
  • Is free-market ideology responsible for the U.S. economy’s poor performance over the past decade?
  • Will cryptocurrencies overtake natural resources like gold and silver?
  • Is capitalism the best economic system? What system would be better?
  • Should the U.S. government enact a universal basic income?
  • Should we require companies to provide paid parental leave to their employees?
  • Should the government raise the minimum wage? If so, to what?
  • Should antitrust regulators break up large companies to promote competition?
  • Is it ethical for companies to prioritize profits over social responsibility?
  • Should gig-economy workers like Uber and Lyft drivers be considered employees or independent contractors?
  • Should the federal government regulate the gig economy to ensure fair treatment of workers?
  • Should the government require companies to disclose the environmental impact of their products?
  • Should companies be allowed to fire employees based on political views or activities?
  • Should tipping practices be phased out?
  • Should employees who choose not to have children be given the same amount of paid leave as parents?
  • Should MLMs (multi-level marketing companies) be illegal?
  • Should employers be allowed to factor tattoos and personal appearance into hiring decisions?

In Conclusion – Argument Essay Topics

Using the tips above, you can effectively structure and pen a compelling argumentative essay that will wow your instructor and classmates. Remember to craft a thesis statement that offers readers a roadmap through your essay, draw on your sources wisely to back up any claims, and read through your paper several times before it’s due to catch any last-minute proofreading errors. With time, diligence, and patience, your essay will be the most outstanding assignment you’ve ever turned in…until the next one rolls around.

Looking for more fresh and engaging topics for use in the classroom? You might consider checking out the following:

  • 125 Good Debate Topics for High School Students
  • 150 Good Persuasive Speech Topics
  • 7 Best Places to Study
  • Guide to the IB Extended Essay
  • How to Write the AP Lang Rhetorical Analysis Essay
  • AP Lit Reading List
  • How to Write the AP Lang Synthesis Essay
  • 49 Most Interesting Biology Research Topics
  • High School Success

Lauren Green

With a Bachelor of Arts in Creative Writing from Columbia University and an MFA in Fiction from the Michener Center for Writers at the University of Texas at Austin, Lauren has been a professional writer for over a decade. She is the author of the chapbook  A Great Dark House  (Poetry Society of America, 2023) and a forthcoming novel (Viking/Penguin).

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271 Strong Argumentative Research Paper Topics You Must Know

argumentative research paper topics

Writing good argumentative research paper topics can always place you in a rock and a hard place. Writing from scratch can be daunting, but writing to a deadline is worse. Creating a terrific academic argumentative research paper takes a few tweaks. Through them, you will eventually craft a standardized paper that would earn you all points and, if not all, perhaps better grades.

This article will discuss the various angles you could take flawlessly to finish an argumentative research paper. Consequently, do not let terror take over you when writing a research paper.

Instead, it will be your forte after reading through this article’s steps.

What Is An Argumentative Research Paper?

An argumentative research paper is a paper that is structured in a way that allows you to present and defend your ideas about the topic, and that’s what definitional argument paper topics involve. The main purpose of an argumentative research paper is to make it possible for you to demonstrate your arguments. They may be based on either scientific knowledge or personal experience.

College argumentative research paper topics can be a single paper or a collection of several papers that you have written. Alternatively, it can be a series of papers in which you have analyzed different aspects of the topic. It will take you a while of introspection to understand this.

An award-winning research paper or one that could earn you better grades must be deeply rooted in facts. Generally, you must employ extensive evidence to defend your opinion or point.

What Are The Different Types Of Argumentative Research Paper Topics?

The are many different types of argumentative research paper topics. Here we explore the classic classification of the topics and their characteristics

  • Classical Western Argument These types of classical argument paper topics have always been footed on two bases: to convince the audience that they are right and give well-reasoned answers to questionsThey are easy argument paper topics. Topics for argumentative research paper tasks do not necessarily have to be complicated. An introduction is imperative for a classical western argument since it welcomes the audience and builds goodwill and a connection with the readers. It also announces the overall theme or thesis of the argument.It must have a narration that portrays necessary background facts. It is intended to inform the listener about the setting and occurrences that produced the argument.A classic western argument must have confirmation, refutation, and summation. Remember, the summary must be concrete, echoing the gravity of the argument and equally reflecting the best solution to the readers.
  • Toulon Argument The primary goal of a Toulmin argument is frequently to gather the most compelling proof in favor of the presented statements. For example, if you take “Philosophy argument paper topics”, you have to work through this topic well and understand it.The goal of a Toulmin argument is precise, unlike the previous types. It is made up of six parts, namely: introduction, data, warrants, qualifiers, rebuttal, and backing. It has a conclusion intended to trigger evocative thought among the readers.
  • Rogerian Argument The Rogerian argument seeks the greatest plausible solution based on the wants and preferences of everyone concerned, or, in other words, some form of unanimity. The essay structure of this type of argument does not bear innate disparities to the different types. It has a structure that aims at reaching a consensus amidst the contest.The Rogerian argument topics for a paper focus on expanding comprehension between conflicting viewpoints by noting that an issue can be viewed from various perspectives. Its building blocks are; an introduction, an acknowledgement of the opposition, a thesis statement, support for the thesis, and a conclusion.Notably, the summary has to highlight the imperatives of a classical argument paper topic, even if it cannot resolve the problem wholly. Also, it has to acknowledge that more work needs to be done in the future to find lasting remedies.

How To Write A Strong Thesis Statement

A thesis statement outlines the topic of your assignments, that is, argumentative research essay topics, and provides a summary of the article’s content, particularly your position on the subject. It is helpful to pose a concern before making your assertion in a thesis, so that your thesis can provide a resolution.

This is a powerful strategy for getting the reader interested in your subject and the viewpoint you advocate. The basic custom of any argument should be briefly covered in a thesis. By accomplishing this-getting thesis writing help, you can assist the reader in becoming ready for the essay’s main body.

When writing a thesis statement, you must include: A question A provocative statement A well-laid description An anecdote that compels the readers to find out more about the essay

Whenever you start writing, make an effort to define your aim explicitly. This is what argumentative research paper topics college institutions demand. Constantly write on your subject if you cannot express your purpose effectively.

How To Select A Topic For An Argumentative Essay

You might occasionally find yourself debating points you do not particularly agree with. That is just good – making a convincing argument does not need you to believe what you are saying fervently.

However, picking a subject you are passionate about is a fantastic option when you have complete freedom over it. A strong perspective and various supporting arguments are the two essential elements of a high quality successful argumentative essay.

It will be simpler for a student to obtain proof to back up an argument if they are fascinated and enthusiastic about the issue that they chose. The evidence itself is what matters most.

Decide on a topic by considering issues that are important to you, irrespective of whether they are good or bad. Create a list of concepts, and then pick a couple to focus on. You will then elaborate upon such concepts by addressing a few compensatory picks.

Making these lists may lead you to discover that a few are more powerful than others. The greater the issue, the more proof you have and the more compelling you believe that proved to be.

Again, choosing a different argument research topic is acceptable if you think one issue would have more verifiable data, but you would prefer not to pen about it. If you are enthusiastic about our topic, it might be much simpler to uncover solid arguments and evidence to support your claims than if you are not.

Well, here is a list of sample argumentative research paper topics you could decide to choose from and develop a terrific essay.

Good Argument Paper Topics On Education

Here are some ingenious argumentative essay sample topics touching on matters of education:

  • Can parents be able to alter their unborn children’s characteristics?
  • Should pupils need to be immunized to attend a public school?
  • Should global governments take action to combat climate change?
  • Should physical education classes have an impact on a student’s grades?
  • Is free college a good idea?
  • Should Greek life be banned from academic institutions?
  • Should comprehensive sex education be given to scholars?
  • It should be possible for pupils to choose the high school curriculum.
  • The importance of physical education in education.
  • Schools should not permit the use of cell phones.
  • Like scholars, teachers need to pass a professional exam.
  • Less work should be assigned to pupils in schools.
  • High schools should be required to include sex education.
  • The Best Alternative to Regular School is Home Schooling
  • Scholars should only spend three months studying and nine months vacationing.
  • Sporting Activities Can Help You Change Your Life.
  • Lies Are a Vital Component of a Healthy Relationship
  • There Are Aliens
  • Keeping a Journal Is a Fun Stress Reduction Technique
  • Colleges need medical facilities to aid scholars in overcoming stress and depression.
  • You Can Learn Important Life Skills from Video Games
  • Having a pet is a way to improve your happiness.
  • Better Off Renting Than Buying a Home
  • Is the American educational system ideal for the modern world?

Interesting Argument Paper Topics On Ethics

When faced with an argumentative essay touching on ethics, here are samples to jog your mind:

  • Do GMOs benefit or hurt humans?
  • Should Facebook be permitted to gather user data?
  • Should autonomous vehicles be made legal?
  • Is it moral to use automation to replace human labor?
  • Should use a cell phone while driving is prohibited by law?
  • Has the Internet had a good or bad impact on society?
  • Should college athletes receive compensation for playing on teams?
  • Must fracking be permitted?
  • Same-sex couples ought to be permitted to wed.
  • Death Penalties: Are They Still Valid in the Twenty-First Century?
  • Benefits of Medical Marijuana Legalization
  • Without organized religion, the world might be a better place.
  • More harm than good is caused by technology.
  • What would life be like if animals ruled the world?
  • What if scholars and teachers switched places?
  • How will having flying automobiles affect our daily lives?
  • The most prosperous people are school dropouts.
  • Why drinking is advisable before a test
  • What if humans were to view the world as dogs do?
  • The causes behind Starbucks’ delicious flavor
  • How defying your parents can help you succeed?
  • Why passing the driving test is crucial
  • The top pupils are those who do not attend class.
  • The best visitors are those who arrived already stuffed.
  • Why I enjoy junk mail
  • Why setting your school on fire is not an option
  • Clowns are not as terrifying as you would imagine.
  • The reason why your washing won’t do itself
  • Why you should continue to wear a mask even after COVID-19
  • Which film has ever been the worst?
  • How playing video games can benefit your career search
  • Why I don’t like country music
  • Why films are superior to books
  • Is it wrong to show sex scenes on television?
  • Should learning institutions condone cheating?
  • Should young people have access to birth control?
  • Is religion a valid justification for terrorism?
  • Does bullying make one stronger?
  • Do you think young kids should have access to cell phones and tablets?
  • Should minors be allowed to obtain contraception without their parent’s permission?
  • Is it time for single-payer healthcare in the US?
  • Should assisted suicide be allowed to exist?
  • Should nutritional supplements and products for weight loss, such as teas, be allowed to use influencer marketing?
  • Should physicians be permitted to promote medications?
  • Is the electoral college still a useful mechanism in contemporary America?
  • Should Puerto Rico gain statehood?
  • Is automatic voter registration a good idea?
  • Should prisoners have the right to vote?
  • Should justices of the Supreme Court be voted into power?
  • Children should not be served soda at restaurants.
  • Should sexual labor be made legal?
  • Should Indigenous Peoples’ Day take the place of Columbus Day?
  • Should executions be permitted?
  • Are uniforms for schools a good idea?
  • Should using animals for clinical tests be permitted?
  • Should the crime of drug possession be dropped?
  • Must unpaid internships be permitted?
  • Must abortion be outlawed?
  • Do individuals misuse their freedom to carry weapons?
  • Is there a racial component to police violence?
  • It is time to raise the legal drinking age.
  • A child’s sexual orientation is established when they are young.
  • All around the world, same-sex unions should be permitted.
  • Inmates should not be kept as illegal immigrants.
  • Should all women have access to reproductive health care and birth control?
  • Would anyone benefit equally from our tax system?
  • Is vaping just as dangerous as cigarette smoking?
  • Is global consumption a serious problem?
  • Is social media a privacy infringement?
  • Does everyone need to get vaccinated?
  • Do food firms have a say in what we eat?
  • Does our system of education fit our culture?
  • Why should certain languages be recognized as official in the US?
  • Is the death penalty ever justified?
  • Victims of rape ought to abort their unborn children.
  • Equal paternity leave should be granted to fathers.
  • Do trouble-making behaviors among teenagers stem from boredom?
  • Parents who have failed their children should be disciplined.
  • Animal testing ought to be prohibited.
  • Gaming that is violent needs to be prohibited.
  • Adopting parents with mental impairments should not be permitted.
  • Islamist nations should allow alcohol usage.
  • Everyone should receive the COVID-19 vaccine.
  • School dress codes ought to be abolished
  • Assignments should not be required
  • Pets ought to be allowed in learning institutions
  • Cellphone use should be permitted in class for scholars.
  • The daily schooling hours ought to be cut shorter
  • Why longer school breaks are necessary
  • Every classroom needs a TV.
  • We must extend our summer vacation.
  • Schools ought to have recess in between class sessions.
  • A pet belongs in every classroom.
  • Is a College Education Still Required?
  • Should High School Graduates Have a Gap Year?
  • Cyberbullying in High School Is a Serious Problem
  • Scholars ought to be permitted to dress however they like.
  • The Existing Grading System Does Not Reflect Scholars’ Knowledge in the Contemporary World
  • Is a Lower Voting Age Needed?
  • The Benefits of Offering Free Condoms to Scholars
  • Partners expecting a child ought to take parenting classes
  • Sex education ought to be taught in schools.
  • Should the legal drinking age be lowered?
  • Standardized Tests Need to Be Banned
  • Scholar loans: Are They Favorable or Bad?
  • Is drug use on campuses a test or a genuine issue?
  • Do College Relationships Last a Long Time?
  • Children should not be permitted to attend college classes by scholars.
  • Fraternities’ detrimental effects on scholars’ behavior and performance
  • When Is a Gap Year a Welcomed Idea?
  • There should be more benefits for college athletes when schooling.
  • Most college units are already obsolete and unfit for the contemporary world.
  • The cost of lodging in universities ought to be zero.
  • Celebs ought not to serve as teenage girls’ role models.
  • Diet obsession can result in a variety of eating conditions and health complications.
  • School uniforms ought to be required.
  • Males and females can have friendships that are limited to just that.
  • The vegetarian lifestyle is not practical
  • Democracy is currently the sanest form of government.
  • GMO diets aren’t as risky as we once thought
  • Horror films may harm one’s mental health.
  • Junk food ought not to be offered in school lunches.

Easy Argument Paper Topics On Sports

Sports argumentative essay topics can prove hard to formulate. Here are samples:

  • Should there be a gender divide in sports?
  • Should baseball’s designated hitter system be eliminated?
  • Should American sports treat soccer with more respect?
  • Should players and coaches receive the same compensation?
  • Girls should be urged to participate in sports and put just as much effort into their studies as boys do.
  • College Sports Players Must Be Paid
  • Sports should allow women to compete against men.
  • Countries benefit economically and socially by hosting the Olympic Games.
  • Media coverage of female athletes is still sexist.
  • Certain sports can encourage violent behavior.
  • Injury Has a Significant Impact on an Athlete’s Mental Health
  • Among Athletes, Eating Disorders Are a Common Issue
  • Schools and Colleges should emphasize physical education more
  • Taking part in sports can have calming, resonant effects on the body and mind.
  • Motivating girls to participate in sports is important.

Argument Paper Topics On Religion

Argumentative essay topics on religion could prove contentious. Below are samples:

  • Should religious institutions be subject to taxation?
  • Should schools allow religious clubs?
  • Should the pledge of allegiance include “one nation under God”?
  • Should religion be covered in the classroom?
  • Should clerics be permitted to wed?

Professional Argument  Paper Topics On Economics

Argumentative topics in economics essays are easy. Here are some examples:

  • Is raising the minimum wage necessary?
  • Do monopolies deserve to exist?
  • Is the concept of universal basic income wisely?
  • Should the tax rate on companies be higher or cheap?

Argument Paper Topics On Society And Culture

Formulating argumentative essay topics on culture and society, in general, should not bother you that much. Here are samples. But if you have problems with your writing you can order a dissertation online .

  • Is graffiti considered destruction or art?
  • Should books with offensive language be prohibited?
  • Should YouTube content be more strictly regulated?
  • Is the study of art important?
  • Should people be able to share their art and music online?
  • Current assessments do not match the scholar’s ability.
  • Breastfeeding in public should be permitted for women.
  • To bring about change, the Internet was developed.
  • When it comes to giving their kids a nutritious diet, parents should be accountable.
  • Churches ought to be taxed as well.
  • The Contribution of Art to the Evolution of Our World
  • Using Art Therapy to Treat Mental Illness
  • Scholars that participate in the arts excel academically.
  • Unlike traditional art, digital art lacks soul.
  • Everybody ought to enrol in art classes in school
  • Is Art Actually Required?
  • What Inner Fears Do Children Express in Their Art?
  • What Is Art For?
  • How Has the Representation of Women in Art Changed Over the Centuries?
  • Most art forms were created in ancient Greece, which is where they originated.
  • A potent treatment for psychological issues is music.
  • Hard Rock Harmfully influences teenage Behavior
  • If You Pay Attention, You Can Hear Music in the Natural World
  • Billie Eilish Is Not Your Average Teen Pop Star-Star
  • The Human Brain is Positively affected by Music
  • The Calming Power of Celtic Music
  • Modern music is largely commercial rather than artistic.
  • Rap music encourages aggression.
  • A better pregnancy can be ensured by classical music.
  • College scholars’ academic performance is improved through music

Technology Argument Paper Topics

Many learners avoid technology-related argumentative topics due to their technicality. Below are samples:

  • Owners of social media platforms should keep an eye on and delete comments that use offensive language.
  • Does technology contribute to individuals feeling more alone?
  • Will there ever be a moment when no new technological developments take place?
  • Vlogging is not a legitimate career.
  • Is LinkedIn useful in terms of job search?
  • The number of business opportunities has significantly increased thanks to social media.
  • Is Java going out of style?
  • Are social media profiles of candidates something employers should look through?
  • Social media cause teenage despair.

Science Argument Paper Topics

Below are argumentative topics touching on the science field:

  • The Morality of Cloning the Benefits of Genetic Engineering and How They Can Change the World the Potential Benefits of Investing in Space Exploration
  • Universities should spend more money on scientific programs.
  • How Do New Scientific Discoveries Affect Our Everyday Lives?
  • Do New Technologies Pose Health Risks?
  • The use of animals in scientific research should be prohibited
  • The Science of Medical Marijuana’s Healing Effect
  • Food that has been genetically modified: Is it healthy for us or not?
  • Why Science Should Be Taught to Everyone.

Argument Paper Topics On The Environment

Argumentative topics on the environment tend to be broad. Here are useful samples:

  • Existing environmental statutes do not avert human encroachment and habitat obliteration
  • Human encroachment endangers the lives of plants and animals
  • Climate change is real
  • Developed nations primarily cause global warming
  • A change in farming practices is required to cease environmental obliteration.
  • Environment-friendly effects of vegetarianism
  • The worst polluters of air and water are industrial by-products and farming additives
  • Overpopulation is the root cause of city pollution
  • We must protect the world’s resources.
  • Hunting is a sinful activity.
  • Is using animals in a circus acceptable?
  • Evil dogs ought to be put to sleep.
  • Recycling ought to be required.
  • Should recycling be made required?
  • Is competition advantageous?
  • Does blogging as a profession have a future?
  • Is it possible for people to ever exist without the Internet?
  • Should everyone volunteer and donate to charities?
  • Does the media infringe on famous people’s privacy?

Argument Paper Topics On Government

Politics is not everyone. Below are argumentative topics on governance you could exploit:

  • In wealthy nations, unlawful immigration is a serious problem.
  • Citizenship should always be granted to persons sired within a particular country’s borders. Stricter immigration laws should be enforced against illegal immigration
  • Border restrictions should be tightened to stop illegal immigration.
  • The main driver of unlawful immigration is poverty.
  • Deporting illegal immigrants to their nations of origin is usually pointless.
  • High Illegal Immigration Rates May Encourage Prostitution
  • High levels of unlawful immigration are one of the main causes of terrorism.
  • Lowering immigration costs may help avert illegal immigration
  • Refugee applicants ought not to be viewed as unauthorized immigrants.
  • Is Racial Profiling Still Appropriate in Today’s World?
  • Euthanasia for terminally ill patients should be made legal.
  • All should have access to free higher education.
  • Is Donald Trump’s presidency detrimental to the US and the rest of the world, or beneficial?
  • In colleges and schools, energy drinks have to be prohibited.
  • In the US, gambling ought to be outlawed.
  • Should abortion be outlawed globally?
  • Should the death penalty be carried out universally?
  • Certain kinds of animal experimentation and other forms of study ought to be prohibited.
  • Should the government take additional steps to provide accessibility for the physically challenged?
  • Are people born with the skill to be a politician, or do they learn it?

High Quality Argument Paper Topics On Health

There are numerous argumentative topics on health to choose from. Below are samples:

  • Everyone should have access to free health care.
  • It is possible to discover a working cure for AIDs
  • Art therapy can be effective for a wide range of health issues
  • Healthy alternatives: benefits and drawbacks
  • The negative consequences of a head injury
  • Does the media accurately represent the risk of coronavirus?
  • Are electronic cigarettes more harmless than smoke?
  • Could 3D printing help the medical field?
  • Nanotechnology can aid in cancer treatment
  • How would stem cells reduce cardiac arrest patients’ mortality rates?
  • Pro-life vs. Pro-choice views on abortion
  • Alcoholism harms all aspects of life, not just health
  • The production and sale of tobacco should be prohibited
  • Vaping is safer than cigarette smoking.
  • The risks of the COVID-19 vaccine outweigh the benefits.

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Working students can consider our consulting and thesis writing services when faced with tough argumentative research paper assignments. Our writers are some of the best experts and can provide a fast turnaround with your argumentative research essays to help you beat the deadlines. Even so, writing essays and coming up with good argument paper topics can be strenuous. Our team of writers can help you get the best argumentative research paper topics that will earn you grades generously.

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Top 257 Good Persuasive Essay Topics [Tips & Prompts]

persuasive essay research paper topic

What if your teacher assigned you to write an essay about anything you like? It would excite you at first. You’d consider endless opportunities to express yourself and show your writing skills…

…But then, you start looking for a good persuasive essay idea, and nothing seems to stand out.

Don’t worry:

We have a list of good persuasive essay topics for you! IvyPanda’s team compiled these great ideas that you can explore in detail. Use them for academic writing or public speaking—they would sound convincing either way. And don’t forget to check out our tips on composing a perfect persuasive essay.

Let’s get started and see if you like anything!

  • ✋ What Is a Good Topic?
  • 📌 Top-12 Topics
  • 🎉 Funny Essay Topics
  • 🎈 For Elementary Students
  • 👩‍🏫‍ For Middle & High School
  • 🎓 For College
  • 🦉 For Higher English
  • 🏈 Sports Topics
  • 🩺 Health Topics
  • 📲 Social Media Topics
  • 🎹 Music Topics
  • 💖 Love & Family Topics
  • ✔ 60 More Topics
  • ‍‍💁‍♀️ 6 Tips on Writing
  • 📜 5 Writing Prompts

✋ What is a Good Persuasive Topic?

We can start by understanding what some good persuasive topics ideas are. A lot of people think that persuasive writing is the same thing as the argumentative one. They cannot be more wrong.

Argumentative one is a type of writing that presents arguments without trying to convince anyone. Moreover, it shows both sides of a dispute. There are numerous beautiful essay examples that demonstrate it.

Persuasive writing is a piece of academic writing, which attempts to persuade that the presented viewpoint is more legitimate than any other. The word “persuade” derives from the Latin word “persuadere,” which means “to convince.” This type of essay doesn’t only describe a situation. It takes a stand and delivers a point.

A persuasive essay presents arguments about one aspect of the issue.

You can use a good persuasive essay topic for both writing and speech preparation. Public speaking can become a lot more engaging when you have a convincing title. Here you can find one that can serve as an exceptional speech idea.

A persuasive topic is good if:

  • It serves the purpose. You should be able to develop the topic. Check if there is room for discussion and analysis. For that, make sure there are plenty of primary and secondary sources available. It’s a good idea to check it out before picking your topic.
  • It’s engaging for you. Remember that it’s you who will have to write your essay. So, pick something that genuinely interests you. Make sure you will be able to write about it with ease.
  • It’s relevant to your readers. Always keep in mind the people who will read your paper. Who is your target audience? Pick a topic that resonates with your audience. Choose something that matters to them.
  • It’s unique. One of the best things you can do when coming up with ideas is to stay original and fresh. Of course, it’s quite challenging to find a completely unique topic. However, even if it is more or less common, attempt to find an unusual perspective on the issue.

The persuasive topic that was repeated over and over again cannot be convincing.

📌 Top-12 Good Persuasive Essay Ideas

  • Is the Internet safe for young kids?
  • Should we abolish zoos?
  • Can animal testing be ethical?
  • Is euthanasia a human right?
  • Do public libraries need more funding?
  • Is green energy reliable?
  • Can we remain anonymous online?
  • Is gender a social construct?
  • How can debt be relieved for college students?
  • Is there a point to political debates?
  • Did the 2020 pandemic change the world?
  • What is better – high school or middle school?

🎉 Funny Persuasive Essay Topics

Writing about something funny and entertaining is always more pleasant. Not only it puts you in a good mood, but also it helps you to train your sense of humor and stay creative. For your audience, it is even more exciting to read something fun.

This list of funny persuasive essay topics ideas will help you to start your essay. Or it can assist with brainstorming and generating your unique funny ideas.

  • Girls do not like gossiping more than boys do. It is a widespread belief, but do you think it depends on gender? Or is it a stereotype that we keep perpetuating? If you ask any man if he gossips, the answer will most probably be negative. However, it is not valid. Men gossip as well. The difference is that they don’t consider their conversations as gossiping.
  • Why should people eat less junk food? There are so many good reasons why people should eat less junk food. You can start with listing health benefits, the financial aspects of it. Add data about the inability to check sanitary norms and allergy restrictions. It is a straightforward and exciting topic to write about.
  • Everyone should know how to cook.
  • Why do smokers have more acquaintances?
  • Why parents should stop lying about Santa Claus .
  • People should live together before getting married.

Living together prior to getting hitched has increased since the 1960s in the USA.

  • The color of your hair does not affect your IQ. There is a common stereotype that your hair color can somehow determine your IQ. This stereotype has been reinforced by Hollywood movies, magazines, and even by some ordinary people. Can it be true? Find some good scientific explanation for the position you hold.
  • Why is social media great for you?
  • Regular exercise can help you be happy .
  • Netflix can help you grow as an individual.
  • Why should homework not be given to kids?
  • Overprotection can make your child fail in life . Every parent should allow kids to make mistakes. Unfortunately, that is how we learn. Without this valuable experience, we cannot succeed as adults. We will not be able to make crucial decisions because we will be so afraid of failure. Parents should be able to teach their kids that failure is normal because it is a part of life.
  • Physical attractiveness can help you succeed .

😊 Good Persuasive Essay Topics

When you are trying to find a persuasive essay topic, it may not work for you. The task is either too simple or way too hard. This list is arranged based on your academic level. Hopefully, it will help you to navigate and find the topic for a persuasive essay.

🎈 Persuasive Essay Topics for Elementary Students

Being able to persuade others is a vital skill. To do that, we need to learn how to express our thoughts and ideas logically and coherently. Your sentences and words should be straight to the point.

These skills should be trained even at elementary school. This list can help you to come up with the topic for the next elementary school essay.

By the age of eleven, kids should know how to explain their perspective and persuade.

  • School uniform is a good idea . If you disagree with this statement, you can easily change it to be what you agree with. There are plenty of reasons why a school uniform is a great idea. First, it teaches kids to obey authority. They will wear uniforms for the rest of their life no matter what professional path they will use. Second of all, it helps to balance economic differences between kids. Some parents cannot afford expensive clothing, while others can.
  • School breaks should be longer.
  • Watching TV is good for you.
  • Why there should be no homework .
  • Eating vegetables is good for your health .
  • Why every child should be allowed to have a pet . Having a pet lets you experience what it is to be an adult. It teaches you responsibility. If you have a pet, you can share the lessons you have learned.
  • Summer and Winter are the best seasons.
  • Kids should be allowed to play computer games.
  • I should be able to go to bed when I want to.
  • Kids should be able to vote.
  • My parents should pay me for doing chores.
  • Why having a piggy bank can help you in life. Financial education should start at a very early age. Kids should be able to understand the value of money and what it means to save. If you have a piggy bank, you can share what benefits it has for you.
  • Students should be able to give grades to teachers.
  • Should we get paid for good grades?
  • Having a big family has more benefits than disadvantages.
  • Cats are better than dogs.
  • Students should be allowed to pick their teachers.
  • Using a cell phone at school should be allowed .
  • Why learning another language is good for you. Do you like traveling? Or watching movies and cartoons? Learning another language can help you to do so while using a foreign language. It also provides you with a competitive edge and an advantage in the future.
  • Everyone should have a hobby.

‍👩‍🏫 Persuasive Essay Topics for Middle & High School

Middle and high school is a place where you can learn and train the essential life skills. There is learning how to count, write, and communicate with others. Besides all of this, you can learn how to be convincing and persuasive. Essay writing is a great way to do that.

So, if you can choose your essay topic, try to go for a persuasive essay topic.

In the US, middle school often includes 6th grade, 7th, and 8th grade. High school usually starts in grade 9 and finishes on the 12th one.

  • Smoking is bad for you .
  • The school day should start later in the day.
  • Households should be obliged to recycle .
  • Books should be replaced with tablets. Books are the things of the past. Having to carry heavy books is not necessary anymore. A tablet can contain hundreds of books. It is also better for the environment and forest preservation. If you agree with this statement, choose this persuasive essay topic.
  • The Internet is the best invention of the 20th century . Pretty much everyone will agree with you. A modern world would be so much more difficult without the Internet. It elevates communication to another level and provides information. Some people disagree with these statements. They think that the Internet is not the best invention of the 20th century.
  • Smoking should be banned in all public spaces.
  • Why city life is better than country life.
  • The Internet should be free for everyone. It is a critical component of modern life. Such things as applying for taxes, looking for a job, working are impossible nowadays without access to the Internet. Even applying to university, or for scholarships to support your studies cannot be done without it. Consequently, it should be free.
  • Should tattoos be illegal?
  • Women should be allowed to breastfeed in public.
  • Eating chocolate is healthy .
  • Animal dissection is inhumane.
  • Cities should have a free bike-sharing.
  • Video games promote violence . Video games are sometimes connected to violent actions. Kids who play video games are more likely to engage in intense activity. Elaborate on this view or argue against it.
  • Social Media is bad for your self-image.
  • Who do you consider your hero, and why?
  • Texting while driving should be illegal.
  • Why zoos should be banned . Lots of individuals love going to zoos. However, look at it from an ethical perspective. You will see why zoos should be forbidden for a large number of reasons. In this essay, you can give your personal opinion. For example, tell your reader why keeping animals in cages is inhumane.

Zoos do not allow animals to demonstrate their natural behavior.

  • Gender divided schools are bad for kids.
  • The benefits of having younger siblings.

🎓 Persuasive Essay Ideas for College

Choosing a persuasive essay idea for the college level is a real challenge. We’ve already done the hardest part for you and created a list of interesting topics. See if anything looks persuasive enough for your next paper or a public talk.

  • How should Americans solve the gun violence issue in the United States?
  • One policy that should be implemented in the educational sector.
  • Why should public universities have free tuition?
  • The death penalty is an ineffective way to prosecute .
  • Hunting is not an ethical hobby. Many people believe that it is not a decent hobby because it makes animals suffer. Sometimes an animal can survive the shot but later on experience a prolonged and painful death. Find arguments that support this point of view. You can think that there is nothing wrong with hunting. Then highlight that love for animals and this hobby are not two mutually exclusive concepts.
  • Vegetarianism does not save animals.
  • Mcdonalds should not be an official sponsor of any sporting event.
  • The world should have free borders.
  • Abstract art is not art.
  • Online learning is best for students and teachers .
  • The importance of equal representation of genders and races in the police.
  • Capital punishment should be abolished .
  • Churches should be required to pay taxes. This debate continues for decades. A lot of people believe that churches should be stripped of their tax-exempt charity status. One of the reasons is that the Catholic Church is the wealthiest organization in the world.
  • Teachers should be paid more .
  • Americans should speak more languages.
  • Beauty contests are bad for teenage girls’ self-image. This type of competition degrades women to mere sexual objects. Those who are not able to participate in such contests end up being affected as well. They feel that they are not good enough. Explore some other arguments about why beauty contests are not good for teenagers.
  • Standardized tests should be banned.
  • Why should there be only one currency in the world?
  • Pets should be allowed to join children at school.
  • Why cyberbullying should become a crime .

🦉 Persuasive Essay Topics for Higher English

College students majoring in English can use one of these topics for their essays. Writing a persuasive speech or paper starts with picking the right idea.

Check out this great list of creative and unusual topics for essay writing. Our ideas can help you to deliver an outstanding result that will pleasantly surprise your readers.

  • The question of authority is the focus of The Giver by Lois Lowry.
  • Why abortions should be allowed.

The issue of abortions is a prevalent debate in the United States.

  • People should be charged for racial slurs.
  • Guns should not be allowed on College Campuses .
  • Elementary schools should focus on teaching how to type, not handwrite.
  • Security cameras at a workplace are an invasion of privacy .
  • College football should be banned. It is just too dangerous.
  • Parents should never lie to their kids. In this essay, you can explain what happens to kids when their parents lie to them. Later in life, it may create a colossal distrust. You can also talk about common lies parents tell their kids such as Santa, dead pet, or swallowing chewing gum.
  • Illegal immigration benefits the American economy .
  • Do we live in the society predicted by Ray Bradberry in Fahrenheit 451?
  • Should priests be allowed to get married?
  • Does the government have a right to choose what it censors?
  • How the current tax system overburdens middle-class citizens.
  • Religious beliefs do not define a person.
  • Being egoistic should be encouraged. Being selfish is usually seen as a negative trait. However, psychologists believe that being selfish can make you a better individual. Find arguments that support this point of view. You can claim that being selfish can help you stay healthy or even have better relationships. There are many good arguments you can make that will persuade your readers.
  • Sexual desire does not define human behavior.
  • Equal rights between men and women are impossible to attain. Elaborate on the topic expressing this or the opposing view. Provide both arguments and counterarguments, striving to convince your reader.
  • Women are better at collaborating and executing than men.
  • There is a danger in being neutral.
  • Should all residents receive free health care?

🎈 Great Persuasive Essay Topics according to Theme

We organized our topics thematically as well. It could help you to search for the right one as you may have to write a persuasive essay for a specific class.

Maybe you have a passion for music, or sports, or a healthy lifestyle. Then, you can go to a theme you like the most. Select a good persuasive essay topic that works.

🏈 Persuasive Essay Topics about Sports

Who does not like sports? Okay, maybe some individuals do not enjoy it. However, most students choose not to write essays about it.

Do you know why?

Mainly because it is hard to find the topic. It is especially problematic when you want to find a good one. This list will give you some fresh persuasive essay ideas.

  • Don’t generalize college athletes . There is a common belief that all college athletes are not very smart. In this essay, you should provide reasoning on why this statement is wrong.

Numerous athletes study hard and are very intelligent.

  • Cheerleading should also be regarded as a sport.
  • Only women should be allowed to train female teams.
  • Universities should stop spending so much money on sports programs . This essay topic is another debate in American society. A lot of people believe that spending this amount of money on sports does not make sense. We could redirect this money to academics and financial support for students in need. The best schools in the USA do not have large sports programs, explain why.
  • Not every sportsperson can be a good coach.
  • Every college athlete should get insurance .
  • Women should be allowed to compete against men.
  • An issue of homophobia in sports.
  • Cheerleaders should wear different costumes because the current ones are sexist.
  • Why parents should let their kids play extreme sports . Think about why parents should allow their children to participate in such activities. First, you can write about why kids want to do extreme sports. Second, you can elaborate on why parents do not want to let that. You will be surprised at what you might find.
  • Fame is the main factor in getting a sports-related career.
  • College athletes should get paid as much as the professional ones .
  • Chess should become an Olympic sport.
  • Sports help with managing depression and anxiety.
  • Michael Jordan is the most successful athlete of all time .

🩺 Persuasive Health Topics

This particular section has some ideas of the persuasive essay topics about health. Each section has about five titles.

Let’s see what health topics you can use:

Medical Persuasive Essay Topics

  • Everyone should have a right to euthanasia .
  • The importance of talking to kids about sex .
  • Healthcare should be free. First and foremost, free healthcare can save millions of lives. So, it creates a foundation for a right and just society. Some of the poorest people cannot afford to pay their medical bills. It creates even more inequality in society.
  • Talking about childhood cancer is essential to fight it.
  • Why marijuana should not be legalized . There is a popular belief that marijuana is not dangerous. However, some scientists disagree with this statement. In this essay, you can persuade your readers not to support the legalization of the drug. Or you can do the opposite. Convince them that it is not harmful and can be beneficial for your health.

Marijuana is less harmful than alcohol.

Persuasive Essay Topics on Healthy Lifestyle

  • Your eating habits affect your personality.
  • Seven harmful effects of junk food .
  • The vegetarian diet is the healthiest one.
  • Unhealthy foods taste so good because it’s a manipulation. This topic is a funny one, but many people probably had the same type of questions. Why do unhealthy foods taste so good? Not only it pleases our taste buds, but it also triggers brain chemicals to start reacting.
  • Poor nutrition and life expectancy connection.

Persuasive Essay Topics on Mental Health

  • Misuse of ADHD medication among college students.
  • Stigma and discrimination affect gay men’s mental health.
  • Does playing music during pregnancy increase a baby’s IQ?
  • Playing with Barbie dolls can later manifest in eating disorders . Girls who played with Barbie dolls are convinced that their bodies are not perfect. They feel as if they need to diet. An impossible ideal of Barbie creates a disturbance in body image. Society needs to see that playing with skinny dolls does not cause eating disorders. It increases the risks of having low self-esteem. This essay can provide a fresh look at something as innocent as playing with a doll.
  • The stigma associated with mental illness has to be eliminated.

Persuasive Essay Topics on Depression

  • The connection between perfectionism and anxiety.
  • Teenage Depression is more common than you think . Some individuals believe that teenagers nowadays have very unrealistic expectations. They claim the media and Social Media continuously promote a message about “feeling good.” Many people do not teach their kids vital skills on how to manage their lives under pressure. Find some data that can show how regular the issue is. Prove your point with facts and opinions from trustworthy sources.
  • Every school should have a mechanism to help students with mental health issues.
  • Recognizing the symptoms, signs, and risk factors of OCD is important .
  • The reasons why everyone should have a psychologist. There are plenty of reasons why everyone should see a therapist. An essay can discuss some of them and maybe convince people to start therapy.

A US study supports the view about the dual effects of social media in the workplace.

📲 Social Media Persuasive Essay Topics

Social Media has a considerable impact on the world we live in. Therefore, in the past years, essay topics about it became increasingly popular.

A Social Media persuasive topic should be intriguing, controversial, and relatable.

  • The negative effects of Social Media .
  • What makes a successful Social Media marketing plan. Some many different tricks and tips help to make a successful social media marketing plan. However, stick to the essential ones. What you are trying to do and what you want to achieve should be the focus. In the world of marketing, it is called S.M.A.R.T. goals.
  • The importance of attention getter in writing an Instagram post.
  • Don’t forget to live your life, not only to document it for Social Media.
  • Teenagers spend too much time on Social Media . In the modern world, almost everyone has a device. People spend a lot of time looking at the screen. Teenagers spend even more. Explain whether it is a problem or how it can be changed. What are the dangers of spending too much time on Social Media?
  • A specific purpose of Social Media.
  • The positive effects of Social Media.
  • Social Media addiction among older people . You might be surprised, but social media addiction exists even among older people. First, talk about what is considered social media addiction. Then talk about how it can be changed. Why should it be changed?
  • The reasons why Twitter is popular among celebrities.
  • Social Media opened new possibilities for business.
  • The world cannot survive without Social Media.
  • Social Media promotes cyberbullying.
  • Social Media strengthens relationships between people . Despite a lot of negative effects, one thing remains clear: social media helps people to stay in touch. The world we live in today became much smaller because of social media.
  • Social Media and Networking Sites are a great help in your professional development.
  • Social Media is a social problem.
  • Social Comparison caused by Social Media is something we cannot avoid.
  • Social Media Influencers are not celebrities.
  • The Internet heavily affects News .
  • Social Media should not be allowed in the workplace.

A US study supports the view about the dual effects of social media in the workplace.

🎹 Persuasive Topics on Music

Everyone loves music—both listening to it and reading about it. Imagine how pleasantly surprised your peers will be if you choose a persuasive essay topic on it. Choose an artist or a genre and get creative.

  • Hard Rock music is the music of violence.
  • Rap music is not music—it’s poetry. A lot of people believe that rap isn’t music but poetry. Do you agree? If you do, then this topic is excellent for you. Look at the history of rap music. You will find some great arguments that support this view. What was the purpose of the first songs?
  • Some people have an addiction to music.
  • Depressive songs can be triggering for people with mental issues. Sad music usually goes hand-in-hand with depression. If you aren’t feeling well, it is quite reasonable if you choose sad music. However, researchers say that sad music can worsen your condition, so you should be careful. There are a lot of great experiments that demonstrate this idea and prove this point. Your essay can be quite helpful for those battling with their emotions and feelings.
  • Music does not always have a positive effect.
  • Kids should not listen to death metal.
  • Hip hop dancing is a mainstream American culture now.
  • Why music talent shows are so popular in America .
  • Kids who listen to hip hop music are more rebellious than the rest. Rap music is heavily scrutinized. Kids who listen to rap and hip-hop may be more rebellious than others. It can happen since that such music often advocates violence and rebellion.
  • The Negative view of women in hip hop music videos is outdated.
  • The similarities between ballet and hip hop .
  • The music can influence our behavior .
  • The positive aspects of playing a musical instrument.
  • Classical music and intelligence.
  • The music reflects society and its authenticity.
  • The positive effects of Mozart’s music on babies. There are so many advantages when it comes to listening to classical music. That’s why many parents in the United States start playing classical music to kids at a very early age.

Mozart’s music won't make your children intelligent.

  • Blacks express themselves through music for centuries.
  • Even plants grow better with classical music.
  • Jazz is an extinct music genre.
  • Reasons why most people do not like country music.

💖 Persuasive Essay Topics about Love & Family

All we need is love. It is a very famous song, and it is so true. Here’s a list of topics about love and family for you to be able to get inspired.

  • Love is more than a set of chemical reactions. What is love? A lot of writers, scientists, philosophers, artists tried to answer this question. According to science, love is no more than a set of chemical reactions in the brain. Can it be true? You can argue that love is more sophisticated than any chemical reaction. Finding arguments that support this viewpoint should not be complicated. Or take the opposite stand.
  • Everyone needs love.
  • Why men do not understand women.
  • It is not a good idea to live together before marriage.
  • Hitting kids should be a crime. Children cannot make a connection between their actions and physical. Therefore, any form of aggression to children should become illegal. The only thing they feel is pain, so kids should not be physically punished. You can talk about the short-term and long-term effects of childhood traumas caused by caregivers.
  • Every parent should talk to kids about sex.
  • Why can people be happy only if they have love in their life?
  • Love is the only way we can fight racism.
  • Why parents should not drink and smoke in front of their children.
  • Are marriage bonds are more reliable than any other relationship?
  • The concept of love is different from culture to culture .
  • The love between Romeo and Juliet was not mature.
  • A love of a woman is different .
  • Looking beyond imperfections is essential for success in marriage.
  • Sacrifice is an element in family life. To build a happy family, we may need to learn the quality of sacrifice. In your essay, you can talk about why it may be necessary. What does it help to achieve? You can include your life examples and show the benefits of sacrifice.

There are plenty of negative effects of self-sacrifice in family life.

  • The changing landscape of love and marriage .
  • Love and marriage are incompatible .
  • Can parents leave their kids at home alone before 13 years old?
  • Teenagers should have more free time.

✔ 60 More Persuasive Essay Topics

In this section, you can find 60 more persuasive essay topics.

1. Persuasive Essay Topics: UK

Choosing a good persuasive essay topic can be difficult. For UK students and students interested in UK culture, finding this section can be such a relief. These ten topics were waiting for you:

  • Why Are UK Universities Better than the ones in the USA’s ones? It is a very subjective idea. Though it has a place to exist. If you think that UK universities are better, develop this idea into a persuasive essay.
  • Why are UK musicians so famous in America?
  • Brexit will help the UK to prosper.
  • Why some believe that Shakespeare didn’t write his plays . You have probably heard this point of view before. However, you do not have to agree with it. You could find good arguments to demonstrate this common belief. Explain your position and why people think this way.
  • Scotland’s version of UK history is different.
  • The UN and International Peace .
  • British and English are not synonyms.
  • The history of the Northern Ireland crisis.
  • Difficult relationships between the United Kingdom and the EU.

2. Persuasive Essay Topics: Philippines

  • The effects of globalization on poverty in The Philippines.
  • Death penalty laws in The Philippines are cruel.
  • Critical issues in the Philippines should be resolved immediately.
  • Benefits of a nationwide smoking ban in the Philippines.
  • The quality of education in the Philippines should be higher.

3. Persuasive Essay Topics: Canada

  • The impact of immigration on the geography of Canada is exceptional. Did you know that Canada receives more than 200.000 immigrants per year? Discuss how it affects economic geography in Canada. Where do most immigrants decide to reside? What happens to the job market?

The Canadian government decided to significantly increase the number of permanent residents to Canada.

  • Canadian immigration is marked with a history of discrimination.
  • Democratic racism in Canada is apparent.
  • Canada is in denial about the issue of gender inequality .
  • The most famous Canadian women and their achievements are underappreciated.

4. Persuasive Essay Topics: Social Science

  • There is a connection between mental illness and aging.
  • There are effects of violent movies on psychology. Absolutely everything that people see and watch affects their psychology. It affects us in one way or the other. Unfortunately, nowadays, violence is one of the most common forms of entertainment. This essay can persuade people to watch less violent movies.
  • We have to deal with the social issues of families in poverty .
  • Technology positively impacts society.
  • There are negative consequences of individualism .

5. LGBT+ Persuasive Essay Topics

  • Social problems in relation to the LGBT population is still an issue.
  • LGBT labor and employment discrimination issues . Unfortunately, the LGBT community still faces discrimination. Besides showing the state of affairs, try to change your reader’s attitude. Make them see it as a social issue.
  • The effects of cyberbullying on the LGBT community are significant.
  • There is a Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, Transgender discrimination in the Hispanic community.
  • The causes of homosexual discrimination in American society .

6. Emotional Persuasive Essay Topics

  • The importance of the use of ethos, pathos, logos in essay writing.
  • The reasons why we should protect the environment.
  • Should older people be allowed to drive?
  • Is access to the internet a human right?
  • The American dream is no longer attainable.

7. Deep Persuasive Essay Topics

  • Should graffiti be considered a form of art?
  • Stereotypes of American citizens .
  • Why the debate over free education for all students should be over.
  • Why is it important to teach Shakespeare in school?
  • Art and music therapy should be covered by health insurance.

8. Harry Potter: Persuasive Essay Topics

  • Does the sorting hat know more than humans?
  • Is there a deeper meaning in Harry Potter and The Sorcerer’s Stone?
  • A theme of love and betrayal in J.K.Rowling’s books is prominent. A lot of critics believe that Harry Potter is not about magic but love. It is a recurring theme in the whole series.

In Harry Potter, there is love between friends, parents, partners.

  • Hogwarts: a home away from home.
  • We should discuss the symbolism of deathly hallows more.

9. Fashion: Persuasive Essay Topics

  • Eco-friendly clothing is the next type of fashion.
  • Why is a style more important than fashion?
  • What does your choice of dress tell about you?
  • Fashion photography is a form of art, as well.
  • What are the concepts of beauty in the fashion industry?

10. Domestic Violence: Persuasive Essay Topics

  • We have to take into account a cross-cultural perspective on domestic abuse. Different cultures approach domestic violence with varying levels of tolerance. In multicultural families, it can be a challenging problem to address. In your essay, you should try to explain why, in some places, people tolerate domestic violence. Elaborate on why, in other areas, it is forbidden.
  • Domestic violence against women is a prominent problem.
  • Domestic abuse against men exists too. Not everyone understands, but domestic violence against men is an issue. However, people discuss it less commonly, and men do not like to share their experiences. Why? They prefer to maintain their sharp facade. However, domestic abuse is damaging to everyone.
  • There is significant emotional abuse in low-income families.
  • Child abuse is still a problem .

11. Persuasive Agriculture Topics

  • How urban agriculture affects the economy .
  • The agricultural effects on wild animals.
  • Should GMO organisms in farming be allowed?
  • The issue of agricultural modernization in third world countries .
  • Organic farming should be the only type of farming.

👩‍🏫 6 Tips on Writing a Persuasive Essay

A persuasive essay is one of the most common types of academic writing. You, as a student, will be required to master it. The goal is to present a distinct opinion on a topic and illustrate it with arguments and evidence. Hopefully, by the end of this section, you will be able to write a good persuasive essay.

To write a perfect persuasive essay, you have to practice.

As you already can guess from the name, in the essay, you have to is to persuade (convince) others. Attempts to make people feel and think a certain way. To be able to do that, you need to have a good grasp of logos, pathos, and ethos.

Even heard of it?

A Greek philosopher Aristotle discovered this theory. A good speech that can convince others depends on three elements, which are:

  • Logos refers to the part responsible for logical persuasion;
  • Pathos refers to the part responsible for emotional appeal;
  • Ethos refers to the extent readers are willing to trust the writer.

You need to be passionate about the persuasive topic.

So, you should determine and implement logos, pathos, and ethos in your essay. You might not be able to use the third one, though. It deals with your social status and reputation.

Now let’s understand what makes a persuasive essay so great:

  • Your distinctive position supported by both arguments and counterarguments.
  • A compelling style that influences your reader.
  • An adequate organization that ensures the natural progression of your argumentation.

📜 5 Persuasive Writing Prompts

In this section, we will give you some good ideas for using both logos and pathos. It is essential to remember about these components if you are writing a persuasive essay. These five persuasive writing prompts will help you to start:

  • Immigrants are not a threat to American society. This is such a familiar debate. Some politicians and regular people see immigrants as a threat to American society. Present several facts that argue against the idea. Elaborate on the increase in human capital, innovation, science. Appeal to the fact that America is a country that was built by immigrants.
  • The immoral aspect of eating animals. Have you ever heard about the Animal Rights movement? It exists, and it states that causing suffering to animals is immoral. You can argue for or against it. You can say that humans were created to eat meat. Or claim that the Bible says we should be vegetarians. There are many logos and pathos arguments that you can make if you decide to choose this topic.
  • Having a lot of friends is impossible. A lot of times, people confuse who is their friend and who is their acquaintance. In this essay, try to find a good definition of who you would call a friend. Friendship requires a lot of time and effort. Is it possible to maintain a lot of friendship relationships?
  • Sexual orientation is determined in childhood. A lot of people believe that sexual orientation is determined later in life. However, most LGBTQ+ persons state that it is not valid. They say that their sexual orientation became evident to them even when they were kids. You can develop this argument and include some personal stories of people you know.
  • Capital punishment is a crime. In this essay, you can give your opinion about capital punishment. Choose the position you genuinely believe in and support it with evidence. One thing is clear; capital punishment is a susceptible subject. No matter what view you have, you will most probably meet some opposition. Stick to logical arguments and try not to appeal too much to pathos.

Truman Capote argued against capital punishment.

Thank you for reading this article! Do not hesitate to share our persuasive essay topics with your friends and fellow students. And leave a comment below—we’d be happy to learn your opinion.

🔗 References

  • 100 Persuasive Essay Topics: Grace Fleming, ThoughtCo
  • Writing Resources: Writing Center Handouts, Hamilton College
  • Ten Timeless Persuasive Writing Techniques: Brian Clark, Copyblogger
  • How to Write a Good Argumentative Essay, Easy Step-by-Step Guide: Malcolm Gladwell, MasterClass
  • Persuasive Essay, Examples and Definition of Persuasive Essay: Literary Devices, Definition and Examples of literary Items
  • Persuasive Essay Outline: HCC Learning Web
  • How To Write A Persuasive Essay: Writing Guides, Ultius
  • Tips To Write An Effective Persuasive Essay: Melissa Burns, The College Puzzle
  • Tips for Organizing an Argumentative Essay: Judith L. Beumer Writing Center
  • Counterargument: Gordon Harvey (adapted from The Academic Essay: A Brief Anatomy), for the Writing Center at Harvard University
  • 60 Persuasive Essay and Speech Topics: K12 Reader
  • 434 Good Persuasive Topics for Speech or Essay: My Speech Class
  • How to Write Persuasive Essays: Matrix Education
  • 31 Powerful Persuasive Writing Techniques: Writtent
  • A CS Research Topic Generator or How To pick A Worthy Topic In 10 Seconds: Purdue University
  • Topic Ideas Generator: Online Research Library Questia
  • English Grammar, Grammar Rules and Tips: Grammarist, English Grammar, Usage, and Style Blog
  • How Do I Cite Sources: Plagiarism.org
  • Writing Essays: Learning Development, Plymouth University
  • Citation Style and Reference Formats: C. Rodkin, Association for Computing Machinery
  • Effective Writing Grammar Rules: Grammar Book
  • The Basics of Essay Writing: UNSW Current Students
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100 Persuasive Essay Topics

  • M.Ed., Education Administration, University of Georgia
  • B.A., History, Armstrong State University

Persuasive essays are a bit like argument essays , but they tend to be a little kinder and gentler. Argument essays require you to discuss and attack an alternate view, while persuasive essays attempt to convince the reader that you have a believable argument. In other words, you are an advocate, not an adversary.

Writing a compelling persuasive essay requires you to select a topic that ideally stirs your readers' emotions. Before settling on a subject, explore some options to find one that helps craft the strongest and most engaging argument.

Below is a list of potential persuasive essay topics to spark your brainstorming process. You can choose a topic from this list or use it as inspiration to develop an idea of your own.

Main Components of a Persuasive Essay

  • Introduction : This is the opening paragraph of your essay. It contains the hook , which is used to grab the reader's attention, and the thesis , or argument, which you'll explain in the next section.
  • Body : This is the heart of your essay, usually three to five paragraphs in length. Each paragraph examines one theme or issue used to support your thesis.
  • Conclusion : This is the final paragraph of your essay. In it, you'll sum up the main points of the body and connect them to your thesis. Persuasive essays often use the conclusion as a final appeal to the audience.

Learning how to write a persuasive essay is an essential skill people use every day in fields from business to law to media and entertainment. English students can begin writing a persuasive essay at any skill level. You'll surely find a sample topic or two from the list of 100 persuasive essays below, sorted by degree of difficulty.

Watch Now: 12 Ideas for Great Persuasive Essay Topics

Beginner topics.

  • Kids should get paid for good grades.
  • Students should have less homework.
  • Snow days are great for family time.
  • Penmanship is important.
  • Short hair is better than long hair.
  • We should all grow our own vegetables.
  • We need more holidays.
  • Aliens probably exist.
  • Gym class is more important than music class.
  • Kids should be able to vote.
  • Kids should get paid for extra activities like sports.
  • School should take place in the evenings.
  • Country life is better than city life.
  • City life is better than country life.
  • We can change the world.
  • Skateboard helmets should be mandatory.
  • We should provide food for the poor.
  • Children should be paid for doing chores.
  • We should populate the moon .
  • Dogs make better pets than cats.

Intermediate Topics

  • The government should impose household trash limits.
  • Nuclear weapons are an effective deterrent against foreign attack.
  • Teens should be required to take parenting classes.
  • We should teach etiquette in schools.
  • School uniform laws are unconstitutional.
  • All students should wear uniforms.
  • Too much money is a bad thing.
  • High schools should offer specialized degrees in arts or sciences.
  • Magazine advertisements send unhealthy signals to young women.
  • Robocalling should be outlawed.
  • Age 12 is too young to babysit.
  • Children should be required to read more.
  • All students should be allowed to study abroad.
  • Yearly driving tests should be mandatory past age 65.
  • Cell phones should never be used while driving.
  • All schools should implement bullying awareness programs.
  • Bullies should be kicked out of school.
  • Parents of bullies should have to pay a fine.
  • The school year should be longer.
  • School days should start later.
  • Teens should be able to choose their bedtime.
  • There should be a mandatory entrance exam for high school.
  • Public transit should be privatized.
  • We should allow pets in school.
  • The voting age should be lowered to 16.
  • Beauty contests are bad for body image.
  • Every American should learn to speak Spanish.
  • Every immigrant should learn to speak English.
  • Video games can be educational.
  • College athletes should be paid for their services.
  • We need a military draft .
  • Professional sports should eliminate cheerleaders.
  • Teens should be able to start driving at 14 instead of 16.
  • Year-round school is a bad idea.
  • High school campuses should be guarded by police officers.
  • The legal drinking age should be lowered to 19.
  • Kids under 15 shouldn't have Facebook pages.
  • Standardized testing should be eliminated.
  • Teachers should be paid more.
  • There should be one world currency.

Advanced Topics

  • Domestic surveillance without a warrant should be legal.
  • Letter grades should be replaced with a pass or fail.
  • Every family should have a natural disaster survival plan.
  • Parents should talk to kids about drugs at a young age.
  • Racial slurs should be illegal.
  • Gun ownership should be tightly regulated.
  • Puerto Rico should be granted statehood.
  • People should go to jail when they abandon their pets.
  • Free speech should have limitations.
  • Members of Congress should be subject to term limits.
  • Recycling should be mandatory for everyone.
  • High-speed internet access should be regulated like a public utility.
  • Yearly driving tests should be mandatory for the first five years after getting a license.
  • Recreational marijuana should be made legal nationwide.
  • Legal marijuana should be taxed and regulated like tobacco or alcohol.
  • Child support dodgers should go to jail.
  • Students should be allowed to pray in school.
  • All Americans have a constitutional right to health care.
  • Internet access should be free for everyone.
  • Social Security should be privatized.
  • Pregnant couples should receive parenting lessons.
  • We shouldn't use products made from animals.
  • Celebrities should have more privacy rights.
  • Professional football is too violent and should be banned.
  • We need better sex education in schools.
  • School testing is not effective.
  • The United States should build a border wall with Mexico and Canada.
  • Life is better than it was 50 years ago.
  • Eating meat is unethical.
  • A vegan diet is the only diet people should follow.
  • Medical testing on animals should be illegal.
  • The Electoral College is outdated.
  • Medical testing on animals is necessary.
  • Public safety is more important than an individual's right to privacy.
  • Single-sex colleges provide a better education.
  • Books should never be banned.
  • Violent video games can cause people to act violently in real life.
  • Freedom of religion has limitations.
  • Nuclear power should be illegal.
  • Climate change should be the president's primary political concern.

Key Takeaways

  • Persuasive essays aim to convince rather than confront, effectively making you advocate for a position or idea.
  • Choosing a compelling topic that evokes emotions is crucial for crafting a strong persuasive essay.
  • The main parts of a persuasive essay are the introduction (with a hook and thesis), body paragraphs (explaining themes supporting the thesis), and conclusion (summarizing main points and making a final appeal).

Hamilton College. " Writing a Persuasive Essay ."

  • 100 Persuasive Speech Topics for Students
  • 50 Argumentative Essay Topics
  • 50 Great Topics for a Process Analysis Essay
  • Examples of Great Introductory Paragraphs
  • Middle School Debate Topics
  • 40 Writing Topics for Argumentative and Persuasive Essays
  • Tips on How to Write an Argumentative Essay
  • 501 Topic Suggestions for Writing Essays and Speeches
  • How to Write a Solid Thesis Statement
  • The Ultimate Guide to the 5-Paragraph Essay
  • Write an Attention-Grabbing Opening Sentence for an Essay
  • How to Write a Narrative Essay or Speech
  • Expository Essay Genre With Suggested Prompts
  • Write a Compare and Contrast Essay
  • Controversial Speech Topics
  • How To Write an Essay

Persuasive Essay Writing

Persuasive Essay Topics

Cathy A.

Easy and Unique Persuasive Essay Topics with Tips

15 min read

Published on: Jan 4, 2023

Last updated on: Jan 29, 2024

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You're staring at a blank screen, trying to come up with a topic for your persuasive essay. You know you need to pick something interesting, but you're unsure where to start. 

It's hard to get motivated when it feels like everything has already been said on the topic you're considering. You are wondering how can you make your essay stand out.

The good news is that CollegeEssay.org  is here to help. 

We have compiled a list of potential persuasive essay topics to get your creative juices flowing. Whether you are looking for something controversial, humorous, or informative – we have it all. 

Take a look at our list of persuasive essay topics below to get started.

On This Page On This Page -->

Unique Persuasive Essay Topics for Students

Writing a persuasive essay can be quite an interesting task for students. It allows them to showcase their research and analytic skills and present their thoughts orderly. 

Choosing the right topic is key to making the writing process more enjoyable. 

Here are some great ideas that you can use for your essay: 

Persuasive Essay Topics for Middle School 

  • Should students be required to wear uniforms in school? 
  • What are the benefits of a longer school day? 
  • How can technology help improve student engagement and learning? 
  • Is it important for all schools to have equal access to resources? 
  • Should physical education be mandatory in all schools? 
  • How can schools better prepare students for entering the job market?
  • Should a student’s grade be based solely on test performance?
  • Is it important to limit screen time, or should there not be restrictions? 
  • Should recess time be increased or decreased in school? 
  • Is it beneficial for students to take part in after-school activities?

Persuasive Essay Topics for Grade 6 

  • Should school lunch prices be lowered to make it more accessible for all students? 
  • Is there an argument for allowing cell phone usage in the classroom? 
  • Should schools offer a wider variety of electives? 
  • Is there a persuasive case for requiring physical education classes in elementary and middle schools? 
  • Should students be allowed to opt-out of standardized testing? 
  • Is the current homework load for elementary and middle school students too much? 
  • Should school provide free breakfast and lunch to all students, regardless of financial status?
  • Should sixth-grade classes have more field trips and outdoor activities? 
  • Should students have access to more technology in the classroom? 
  • Is there an argument for making recess mandatory for all grade levels? 

Persuasive Essay Topics for Grade 7

  • Should schools have a dress code? 
  • Should students be required to do community service projects to graduate? 
  • Is it necessary for all student-athletes to take mandatory drug tests? 
  • Are the current laws on gun control sufficient enough? 
  • Should same-sex marriage be legal? 
  • Should teenage drivers be allowed to have passengers in their cars? 
  • Is standardized testing an effective measure of student success?
  • Should homework be abolished in schools? 
  • Should young children be allowed to use mobile phones or tablets at school? 
  • Are video games too violent for young children?

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Persuasive Essay Topics for High School 

  • Should physical education classes be mandatory in high school?
  • Is a strict dress code necessary for student success?
  • Are standardized tests an effective measure of student achievement?
  • Does social media have a positive or negative impact on teenagers?
  • Should students be allowed to grade their teachers? 
  • Should cell phones be prohibited in the classroom?
  • Should schools offer fast food options like McDonald's or Taco Bell?
  • Is competitive sports necessary for a well-rounded education? 
  • Are after-school activities essential to a student’s development?
  • Should students be allowed to choose their classes?

Persuasive Essay Topics for College 

  • Should universities require all students to take at least one course in diversity studies? 
  • Should universities implement free speech zones on campuses? 
  • Should college athletes be paid for their performance? 
  • Is it ethical for employers to ask about an applicant’s criminal history during the hiring process? 
  • Should college students be required to take a foreign language course? 
  • Should the US government provide free tuition for all qualifying students? 
  • Is it ethical to use animals in scientific research? 
  • Are standardized tests an adequate measure of academic aptitude and ability? 
  • Should paper textbooks be replaced with e-books? 
  • Should all students be required to learn coding and computer science in school? 

Persuasive Essay Topics for University 

  • Should universities offer free tuition to all students?
  • Are special scholarships beneficial for university students?
  • Should college athletes be paid for their services?
  • Is it important for universities to provide mental health resources to their students? 
  • How can universities help prevent cheating and plagiarism among students?
  • Should universities be required to provide online courses?
  • Are university degree requirements outdated and irrelevant?
  • Is it necessary for university students to take physical education classes? 
  • Does the presence of social media in academia positively or negatively impact learning? 
  • Should universities prioritize research over teaching?

Interesting Persuasive Essay Topics from Different Fields 

When choosing essay topics, there is no shortage of interesting persuasive essay topics from different fields available.

Here are some examples of interesting persuasive essay topics from different fields:

Arts & Culture 

  • Should museums be more inclusive of diverse cultures?
  • Should the government fund public art programs?
  • Are comic books an important form of literature?
  • Does graffiti have any value as an art form?
  • Is the traditional concept of beauty outdated in today’s society? 
  • Is it important for the public to have access to art galleries and museums?
  • Do modern movies have any real artistic value?
  • Are video games a form of art?
  • Should government funding be given to the performing arts?
  • Does the music industry put too much emphasis on image rather than talent?
  • Should governments guarantee a minimum wage?
  • Should the government subsidize green energy projects?
  • Is it necessary to introduce higher taxes on wealthy people?
  • Are free trade agreements beneficial or detrimental to developing countries?
  • Can economic growth be sustained without harming the environment?
  • Is immigration beneficial or detrimental to a country’s economic growth?
  • Should governments limit the size of banks and financial institutions?
  • Is it necessary for countries to regulate their currency markets?
  • Should governments invest in renewable energy sources instead of fossil fuels?
  • Should high officials pay more taxes?
  • Should students be required to complete a certain number of community service hours to graduate?
  • Should school uniforms be mandatory for all public schools?
  • Are textbooks becoming obsolete due to technological advances?
  • Should the education system focus more on practical subjects such as coding and programming?
  • Is the current grading system in public schools fair and effective?
  • Is homeschooling a viable alternative to traditional schooling?
  • Should standardized testing be abolished from the education system?
  • Should teachers receive bonuses for good performance in the classroom?
  • Are students more likely to succeed if they attend a private school or university?
  • Should all students have access to free college tuition?
  • Is using animals in medical research ethical?
  • Should parents be allowed to choose their child’s gender?
  • Should companies be held responsible for the pollution they create? 
  • Are businesses obligated to act ethically when conducting business abroad? 
  • Is it ethical to censor content on the internet?
  • Should the government enforce stricter regulations on genetically modified food?
  • Is it ethical to use artificial intelligence in decision-making processes?
  • Should corporations be allowed to have their own private security forces? 
  • Are restrictions on freedom of speech necessary for public safety? 
  • Do companies have an ethical responsibility to pay fair wages?

Government and Politics 

  • Should the government regulate social media?
  • Should term limits be placed on members of Congress?
  • Are taxes too high in the United States?
  • Should voting be mandatory for all citizens?
  • Is the Electoral College still relevant today?
  • Does the death penalty serve as a deterrent to crime?
  • Should the US switch to a single-payer health care system?
  • Should there be limits on campaign spending?
  • Should the United States adopt a flat tax system?
  • Is it time to repeal the Second Amendment?
  • Is legalizing marijuana an ethical practice?
  • Should parents be allowed to choose the gender of their child? 
  • Is it ethical to test medicines on animals? 
  • What are the benefits and drawbacks of genetic engineering? 
  • Are there any health risks associated with using digital screens too often? 
  • Should physical education be mandatory in every school? 
  • Is the healthcare system in your country adequate for your needs? 
  • Are there any benefits to eating organic food? 
  • How does mental health affect physical health? 
  • Should vaccinations be mandatory for all children? 
  • Was the Spanish Inquisition justified? 
  • Were the American Colonists justified in rebelling against Great Britain? 
  • Did Christopher Columbus’ discoveries benefit or harm indigenous populations? 
  • What effect did Genghis Khan have on world history? 
  • Did World War I significantly change the course of history? 
  • Was the Treaty of Versailles fair to Germany? 
  • Did Napoleon Bonaparte’s rule bring about positive or negative changes for France and Europe? 
  • Should the United States annexed the Philippines in 1898? 
  • How did the Great Depression shape world history? 
  • Is there any validity to the theory of a “clash of civilizations”? 
  • Should artificial intelligence be regulated?
  • Should autonomous vehicles be allowed on public roads?
  • Is the internet making us less social?
  • Should research into cloning be banned?
  • Are there moral issues related to genetic engineering?
  • Should governments fund space exploration programs?
  • Are smart home devices making us more vulnerable to cyberattacks?
  • Should the government regulate social media use?
  • Are robots taking away jobs from humans?
  • Should nuclear energy be used as an alternative to fossil fuels?
  • Should professional athletes be drug tested?
  • Is there a gender gap in sports?
  • Should college athletes be paid for their performances?
  • Does skill or luck decide the outcome of sports competitions?
  • Are sporting events becoming too commercialized? 
  • Is it necessary to increase public funding for sporting events?
  • Is the use of performance-enhancing drugs in sports cheating or fair?
  • Should college students be able to choose their own sports teams?
  • Do professional sports hurt young people?
  • Should parents allow children to play violent video games?
  • Should schools replace textbooks with tablets?
  • Are algorithms replacing human decision-making in the workplace?
  • Is it time to regulate the use of facial recognition technology?
  • Can artificial intelligence and robots be used to improve healthcare outcomes?
  • Should autonomous vehicles be allowed on public roads? 
  • Should Internet access be a basic human right?
  • Should social media platforms do more to protect user privacy?
  • Is blockchain technology the future of banking and finance? 
  • Are virtual assistants such as Siri and Alexa invading privacy? 
  • Can we trust that autonomous weapons system will make ethical decisions in war?

Social Media

Here are a few social media persuasive essay topics. Take a look at them.

  • Is social media a positive or negative influence on society?
  • Should employers be able to access an employee's social media accounts?
  • Should people be allowed to post anonymously online?
  • How can parents protect their children from the risks of using social media?
  • Does the spread of fake news on social media hurt society?
  • Should governments regulate online speech on social media?
  • Should employers be allowed to conduct background checks using social media?
  • Is the personal data of individuals safe from exploitation by corporate interests on social media platforms?
  • Are people spending too much time on their digital devices?
  • Is the use of social media by young people making them more isolated?

Controversial Persuasive Essay Topics 

  • Should the death penalty be reinstated in all states?
  • Should gun control laws be stricter? 
  • Is global warming a real threat? 
  • Are vaccinations safe for children? 
  • Should prostitution be legalized? 
  • Should marijuana be made legal? 
  • Does school uniform violate personal freedom? 
  • Should genetically modified foods be allowed in the market? 
  • Should sex education in school be mandatory? 
  • Should animal testing be banned?

Fun Persuasive Essay Topics 

  • Should cats be allowed to go to school?
  • Should people have a minimum number of friends before they can graduate?
  • Is it okay to laugh at your own jokes?
  • Should parents be required to take parenting classes?
  • Are video games the best way to spend free time?
  • Should kids be allowed to wear pajamas in public places?
  • Should students have to pass a test before they can drive a car?
  • Are cell phones essential for teenagers or should they be limited?
  • Should everyone learn how to cook their meals?
  • Would it be better if all schools had the same uniform?

Argumentative Persuasive Essay Topics 

  • Should the electoral college be abolished? 
  • Is it ethical to eat meat? 
  • Should the internet have censorship? 
  • Are genetically modified foods safe for human consumption? 
  • Is social media good or bad for society? 
  • Should the drinking age be lowered or raised? 
  • Should school attendance be mandatory for students? 
  • Are video games too violent and negatively influencing children?  
  • Should religious education be banned from public schools?

How to Choose a Good Persuasive Essay Topic? 

Choosing a writing topic for your persuasive essay writing is essential. 

The right topic will let you draft an exceptional and well-written essay. Selecting a persuasive essay topic might sound easy, but it can be challenging. 

You cannot randomly start writing a persuasive essay about any topic and expect your essay to be brilliant. 

To select the best topic for your essay, take these essential steps:

1. Know your Interests -   You can only draft an effective essay if you are writing about something that interests you. When you write something you are passionate about, the enthusiasm helps to persuade the readers.

2. Narrow Down Ideas - Make a rough list of the topic of your interest. Then, analyze all the issues and identify topics you think you can present well.

3. Pick your Stance - Now that you know the information is sufficient on a topic, decide your stance. Pick a side to support with evidence and logic. 

4. Controversy is the Best Policy - People love to read about controversial stuff. It is more likely that the readers will go through the entire essay to ease their curiosity. 

After passing your ideas through these filters, you will have a strong and arguable topic to draft an essay on.

Tips for Writing a Compelling Persuasive Essay 

Whether you are in school, college, or university, crafting an effective persuasive essay can be difficult.

Fortunately, with a few tips and tricks, you can create a compelling, persuasive essay that will make your readers take notice. 

Here are six tips to help you write a compelling, persuasive essay:

1. Choose Your Topic Carefully

You need to select a relevant and interesting topic for your audience. Make sure you feel passionate about it and can present it logically and convincingly.

2. Do Extensive Research

Before beginning your essay, research your topic as much as possible. So you can present both sides of the argument in an informed, balanced way.

3. Identify Your Audience

 Before writing your persuasive essay, consider who will be reading it and their interests. 

This will help you write in a language that resonates with them and ensure that your arguments suit their understanding.

4. Use Logical Arguments

It is important to provide logical and compelling arguments to be persuasive. Make sure you use facts, statistics, and other evidence to make your points more convincing.

5. Structure Your Essay Well

An effective persuasive essay should be well-organized. Divide it into an introduction, body paragraphs, and a conclusion. 

Pay attention to the structure of your essay, as it can help you make your points more effectively.

Learn how to make a perfect persuasive essay outline with the help of our blog. 

6. Make It Engaging

An engaging, persuasive essay will capture your audience’s attention from beginning to end. 

Use various techniques to make your essay interesting and engaging, such as using examples, analogies, and persuasive language.

We hope you are inspired by our comprehensive list of topics. Pick up a topic that entices you and start working on it. By following these amazing tips and tricks, you can surely compose an essay that will wow your professor.

Still not sure how to draft a perfect essay? Well, leave it to us. Our essay writing service helps you craft your argument in the most effective way possible to get the desired results.

 Don't let yourself get overwhelmed with the process! Trust our professional persuasive essay writer. 

Let CollegeEssay.org's best essay writing service guide you on your journey and take your writing to the next level. 

Take the stress out of writing persuasive essays and get the results you need with our expert essay writer AI .

Frequently Asked Questions

How can i choose a good persuasive essay topic.

When selecting a persuasive essay topic, consider an issue that is interesting to you and has two or more opposing viewpoints. Research various resources about the topic to gain a better perspective

What strategies can I use for writing a persuasive essay?

When writing a persuasive essay, establish facts from reliable sources to support your argument. Be concise but thorough, and use persuasive language to strengthen your argument.

How can I make my persuasive essay stand out?

To make your persuasive essay stand out, use vivid language and strong, specific evidence to support each point. Make sure all sources are current and relevant to the argument being made. With these elements, your persuasive essay will stand out from the rest!

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50 Persuasive Essay Topics to Help You Ace Your Next Assignment

50 Persuasive Essay Topics to Help You Ace Your Next Assignment

  • 5-minute read
  • 19th January 2023

Welcome to your ultimate guide to persuasive essay topics! 

In this post, we’ll provide a list of 50 persuasive essay topics to help you get started on your next assignment. 

We’ll also include some tips for writing a persuasive essay to help you craft a strong and effective argument. Whether you’re a student or a professional writer, these persuasive essay topics are sure to inspire and challenge you.

What Is a Persuasive Essay?

Persuasive essays are a type of argumentative essay that encourage the reader to accept a particular point of view or take a specific action.

They typically open with a question, followed by a series of arguments intended to persuade the reader to take the same side as the author.

In a persuasive essay, the author will usually appeal to the readers’ emotions in order to prove that their opinion is the correct one. But this doesn’t mean that persuasive essays ignore evidence , facts, and figures; an effective persuasive essay makes use of a combination of logical argument and emotive language to sway the audience.

A persuasive essay can cover just about anything from pop culture to politics. With that in mind, we’ve put together this list of 50 persuasive essay topics to inspire your next assignment!

Top 50 Persuasive Essay Topics

  • Should the government censor the internet?
  • Should the government regulate the sale of violent video games?
  • Should self-driving cars be banned?
  • Is facial recognition software unethical?
  • Should mental health apps collect users’ personal data?
  • Should children under 13 have cell phones?
  • Should internet access be treated as a human right?
  • Should all paperwork be digitized?

Science and the Environment

  • Should the use of plastic bags be banned?
  • Should genetically modified organisms be labeled?
  • Should we clone human beings?
  • Should animal testing be allowed?
  • Should the government fund space exploration?
  • Should the government regulate the use of pesticides in farming?
  • Should the government regulate the use of antibiotics in livestock?
  • Should the government fine people who drive gas-powered vehicles?
  • Should climate change be declared a national emergency?

Crime and Politics

  • Should the death penalty be abolished?
  • Should all American citizens have to serve a year of community service?
  • Should the US voting age be lowered to 16?
  • Should the government adopt a tougher immigration policy?
  • Should the government cut its military spending?
  • Should the government introduce a national living wage?
  • Should politicians be banned from social media?
  • Should the electoral college be abolished?

Health and Fitness

  • Should the government provide universal healthcare?
  • Should the government ban the use of certain chemicals in cosmetics?
  • Should parents be allowed to choose the gender of their unborn child?
  • Should physical exercise be mandatory at work?
  • Should employees have to disclose health conditions to their employers?
  • Should fast food commercials be banned?
  • Should herbal medicines be better regulated?
  • Should regular mental health checkups be mandatory?
  • Should schools offer fast food options like McDonald’s or Taco Bell?
  • Should students be required to wear uniforms?
  • Should the government provide free college education?
  • Should schools offer comprehensive sex education?
  • Are high school students given too much homework?
  • Should humanities and arts subjects receive more funding?
  • Should military recruiters be allowed on school grounds?
  • Is the school day too long?
  • Should every US citizen be required to learn another language?

Lifestyle and Culture

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  • Should the drinking age be lowered or raised?
  • Should the use of tobacco be banned?
  • Should marijuana be legalized?
  • Should all museums and art galleries be free?
  • Should kids be encouraged to read more?
  • Should public spaces provide unisex bathrooms?
  • Is pet ownership a human right?
  • Should extreme sports be banned?

Tips for Writing a Persuasive Essay

Once you’ve chosen your topic, it’s time to start writing your persuasive essay. Here are our tips:

Choose a Side

When you’ve picked the question you’re going to address in your essay, you also need to choose one side – or answer – that you’re going to write in favor of.

It helps if you’re passionate about the topic, as this will enable you to write from an emotional perspective.

Do Your Research

In order to write persuasively , you need to understand the topic you’re writing about. 

Make sure you know the details of your subject matter, and can provide facts and figures to back up your appeal to your readers’ emotions.

You should also read up about different points of view on the topic, so that you can bring them up in the form of counterarguments and rebuttals .

Keep Your Audience in Mind

When you’re writing your essay, think about who it is you’re trying to persuade. The way you speak to a student, for example, will be different to how you address a parent.

Consider what your potential audience will value, and how you can reach them on an emotional level. 

Outline Your Essay

Now you’ve got all the information you need, it’s time to plan and write your essay.

You should break it down into the follow sections:

  • An introduction, which sets up the question you’re going to answer and what side of the argument you are aiming to persuade the reader of.
  • The body of the essay, with a paragraph for each of the points you want to make.
  • A conclusion, where you summarize your points and main arguments.

Get It Proofread

As with any essay, your finished persuasive essay will need proofreading to make sure it’s the best it can be.

Our academic proofreading team here at Proofed can help with that. You can even get your first 500 words proofread for free !

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Interesting Persuasive Essay Topics For College Students

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Table of contents

  • 1 How To Choose An Interesting Topic For a Persuasive Essay
  • 2 Essential Components of a Persuasive Essay
  • 3 What You Should Know When Writing A Persuasive Essay
  • 4 Persuasive Essay Topics on Education
  • 5 Persuasive Essay Topics on Society
  • 6 Persuasive Essay Topics on History
  • 7 Persuasive Essay Topics on Government
  • 8 Persuasive Essay Topics on Politics
  • 9 10 Funny Persuasive Essay Topics
  • 10 20 Good Persuasive Essay Topics For College Students
  • 11 20 Persuasive Essay Topics for High School
  • 12 20 Persuasive Essay Topics for Middle School
  • 13 20 Best Persuasive Essay Topics 2023

An essay is an attempt to communicate information, opinions, or feelings and usually presents an argument on a topic. In an academic context, an essay is an exercise for students to explore and clarify their ideas on a subject.

If you are thinking about how to write a persuasive essay , you need to know that writing an essay is a complex process. Issues such as choosing a topic and conducting thorough research are involved with the chosen topic. The paper’s analysis and the arguments’ design also need to support the issues presented. Therefore, an important focus will be placed on the steps to create a strong persuasive essay. Choosing an engaging and persuasive essay topic will set the rules of construction and its final form.

How To Choose An Interesting Topic For a Persuasive Essay

Hiring a writer’s  professional persuasive essay writing service can be an option when you are facing some problems in creating an essay. There are professionals available online, from people with skills in this area. This is an important option if you have to make a speech about a topic and a written presentation.

Essential Components of a Persuasive Essay

To be successful, a persuasive essay must contain several essential components:

  • Clear thesis statement: A compelling thesis statement, that clearly expresses the writer’s opinion on the subject, is essential. This statement also serves as a guide for the rest of the essay, ensuring every point made is relevant to the overall argument.
  • Strong evidence:  Solid evidence is essential for a persuasive essay. Building credibility and trust is paramount for any successful argument or attempt at persuasion. Establishing one’s authority on the topic can be done by highlighting their expertise, personal experience, or standing within a community. This will make readers more likely to believe the opinions and convictions being expressed, making the message even more powerful.
  • Counterarguments: Addressing counterarguments is an important part of a persuasive essay. The writer should acknowledge and respond to potential objections to their argument. This shows that the writer has considered opposing views and strengthens their argument.
  • Appeals to emotion: Emotional appeals are often used in persuading readers, as they help establish a connection between the writer and the reader. This can be done through personal stories, examples, and descriptive language that creates empathy or a sense of outrage. Pathos is an emotional appeal that helps create this link and make the narrative more powerful. An impacting emotional connection to the story can leave an unforgettable impression on readers and ensure the message resonates with them.
  • Call to action: It encourages the reader to take a specific action or change their behavior.

What You Should Know When Writing A Persuasive Essay

The first step in making an essay is to find a relevant topic to make the task more engaging and motivate yourself to help write a more convincing essay. At this stage, narrowing down the topic by adopting a particular position toward a subject or sub-topic is also necessary.

If you have problems establishing a position on the subject you want to address, brainstorm with others or work individually and write down the ideas that go through your mind, no matter how irrelevant or strange they may seem. At the next stage, connect ideas and group them into sub-topics, developing and exploring them in detail. And if you find yourself at a dead end, then you can buy an essay online today and get a ready-made result in the time frame you need.

Persuasive Essay Topics on Education

  • Education Impact on Psychological Development
  • Is Attending College Still Worth It?
  • The Importance of Early Childhood Education
  • The Power of Arts Education
  • The Benefits of Bilingual Education
  • Supporting Students with Disabilities
  • Promoting Critical Thinking in Education
  • Reducing Standardized Testing
  • Financial Education for Life Skills
  • Advocating for the Importance of Physical Education

Persuasive Essay Topics on Society

  • Are Immigrants Good for the Americans?
  • The State of Gun Violence in the US
  • Promoting Kindness and Empathy in Society
  • Encouraging Volunteerism and Community Engagement
  • Advancing Gender Equality and Women’s Empowerment
  • Combating Climate Change
  • Embracing Diversity and Inclusion in Society
  • Advocating for Animal Rights and Ethical Treatment
  • Ensuring Affordable Housing for All
  • Creating a Safe Digital Society

Persuasive Essay Topics on History

  • Increase Of Child Labor
  • Remembering and Learning from the Lessons of World War II
  • Preserving Historical Sites for Future Generations
  • Reexamining Colonialism’s Impact on Indigenous Cultures
  • Recognizing the Contributions of Women in History
  • Exploring Marginalized Perspectives
  • Challenging Historical Narratives
  • Preserving Cultural Heritage
  • Promoting Historical Literacy for a Better Understanding of the Present
  • Analyzing its Ongoing Impact on Global Societies

Persuasive Essay Topics on Government

  • Thurgood Marshall A True Leader
  • Was President Andrew Jackson a Supervillain
  • Public Policy for Its Nationals
  • Racism is Wrong Which Should Be Stopped
  • Promoting Civic Engagement and Voter Participation
  • Balancing National Security and Civil Liberties
  • Addressing the Influence of Money in Politics
  • Strategies to Ensure Clean and Transparent Governance
  • Upholding Equal Treatment and Justice for All Citizens
  • The Importance of Government Investment in Education and Healthcare

Persuasive Essay Topics on Politics

  • Why Trump Cannot Make America Great Again
  • Why The United States Should Not Construct A Wall
  • Border Wall Critical for Reducing Crime
  • Encouraging Active Engagement in Democratic Processes
  • Ensuring Ethical Standards in Politics
  • Fostering Dialogue and Collaboration Across Partisan Lines
  • Empowering the Next Generation of Leaders
  • Advocating for Accessible and Fair Elections
  • Defending the Integrity of Information and Public Discourse
  • Building Alliances for Global Problem-solving

10 Funny Persuasive Essay Topics

If you are looking for funny and interesting persuasive topics, you should consider these topics for a persuasive essay:

  • Blondes are best in science
  • Humor can improve your work results.
  • Men cheat more than women.
  • Drinking wine every day can make you healthier.
  • Homework should be forbidden.
  • Why is it important to unfriend your parents on Facebook?
  • Moms can be excellent football players.
  • Debatable essays should be made with important speakers.
  • “Family Guy” can be a life model for children.
  • Men love pink more than women.

20 Good Persuasive Essay Topics For College Students

When you need to write a good academic essay and to impress your audience, you can check these solutions for your persuasive essay:

  • Work hard in the workplace to feel better.
  • Choose your clothes for your dream job.
  • Why do people feel the importance of always being right?
  • Do embarrassing situations make people change their life?
  • People who experience devastating situations appreciate their life more.
  • Why should people try new things?
  • If you want something strong, how do you succeed?
  • Self-confidence makes you successful.
  • Hobbies improve your personal skills.
  • Is music an efficient stress reliever in reducing depression?
  • The possibility of facing a war.
  • Homework writing assignments should be replaced with oral presentations.
  • Collecting cars or dolls is the most boring hobby in the world.
  • Students of any age should keep their phones with them.
  • School cafeterias should implement more rigorous health policies.
  • Colleges should provide their students with free food.
  • Can money make your life better?
  • Should students study each day?
  • Why do children love pets?
  • What is more important – recycling or donating?

In the next section, you will find topics on persuasive essays that can be amazing ideas for persuasive speech  and essays for both high and middle school.

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20 Persuasive Essay Topics for High School

Great persuasive essay topics for high school could be:

  • The death penalty is an effective way to scare off criminals.
  • Things the older generation can learn from the modern-day youth.
  • Higher taxes for rich people will favor financial balance.
  • People should be discouraged from keeping rare and exotic animals as pets.
  • Why it is best to always remain honest in life situations.
  • The positive role hobbies can play in people’s careers.
  • Kindness is one of the most important human qualities.
  • Joining the army should be a decision that young people should make on their own.
  • Embarrassing situations can help make people more confident.
  • Human needs should be placed before the needs of wild animals.
  • Treating animal habitats with respect and care is important.
  • Things man must learn to ensure that rare species are kept from extinction.
  • It is best for every family to have a survival plan after a natural disaster.
  • Providing free internet access is great for everyone.
  • Parenting lessons should be made compulsory for pregnant couples.
  • Life is richer and better now than it was 50 years before.
  • Everyone must recycle.
  • Man’s activities are the essential causes of climate change.
  • The use of Grades should be discouraged.
  • Adults should carry electroshock weapons to defend themselves.

Finding the perfect persuasive essay topic is not always easy. That’s why many students struggle with this task, but luckily there is a paper writing service for nursing that can help with choosing the right one for you. Whether you are trying to persuade people to buy a certain product, participate in a certain activity, or even change their opinion about a certain issue, selecting an interesting and relevant topic is of utmost importance.

20 Persuasive Essay Topics for Middle School

Some suitable topics for a persuasive essay in middle school include:

  • The ability to fly is the most amazing superpower.
  • Some scientific discoveries should not be shared with others.
  • The most boring job in the world.
  • Children and chores.
  • Kids should be paid for doing chores.
  • Children should be given larger allowances.
  • The fascinating places for summer vacation.
  • Why do I study during the summer?
  • The role of school newspaper & radio in the life of students.
  • Importance of social media in the lives of students.
  • A gym class is more important than a music class.
  • School time should be made flexible.
  • The world is ours to change.
  • Dogs make better pets than cats.
  • Schools need more holidays.
  • Schools should implement bullying awareness programs
  • Bullies should be kicked out of school.
  • How the internet has changed our lives.
  • There should be different classes for boys and girls.
  • The worst song in the world.

20 Best Persuasive Essay Topics 2023

For college, try these trendy persuasive essay topics in 2023.

  • Every American should learn to speak a second language from primary school.
  • Every immigrant should learn to speak fluent English.
  • High school campuses should be safeguarded by soldiers.
  • The legal drinking age should be 18, as it is in other countries.
  • Kids under 12 shouldn’t have a Facebook account.
  • Standardized examinations should be removed.
  • Every family should create a survival plan.
  • Parents should discuss drugs with their children from primary school age.
  • Racial offenses should be banned.
  • Gun possession should be firmly controlled.
  • Yearly driving examinations should be required for novice drivers.
  • All Americans have a constitutional right to health care.
  • Pregnant couples should receive free training for parenting.
  • Children need better sex education.
  • School examinations are not realistic.
  • Violent video games can trigger people to act aggressively in real life.
  • Nuclear power should be prohibited.
  • Climate change should be the most important political concern.
  • Medical marijuana should be universally legal.
  • People should go to prison if they beat or injure their pets.

With so many persuasive essay topics to choose from, it takes time to decide which one to write about. If you need extra help researching or writing your paper, you can always contact a custom essay writing service for assistance. These services specialize in helping students express their arguments and ideas convincingly and coherently.

Getting good grades in college is important as it is an investment in your future and a great opportunity for your future career. If you need to submit a persuasive essay and don’t feel confident, you can use our professional writing service. We can help you with papers on any subject you need, like psychology, sociology, politics, economics, management, human resources, art, history, literature, etc. Our writers provide a completely unique and high-quality assignment. If you are ready to get the best grade, buy a persuasive essay  on PapersOwl.com. We guarantee you timely delivery and satisfaction with a perfect result.

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This is a stack of books. It is meant to represent the many resources that are required to tackle these persuasive essay topics.

  • Should students be allowed to have phones in elementary and high schools?
  • Should students have to wear uniforms?
  • Should college athletes be paid for playing?
  • Should the elderly receive free bus rides?
  • Should state colleges be free to attend?
  • Should all American citizens have to complete a year of community service?
  • Should students be required to take Spanish classes?
  • Should marijuana be legal for medicinal purposes?
  • Should the voting age be lowered to thirteen?
  • Should the driving age be raised to twenty-one?
  • Should students be paid for having good grades?
  • Should illegal immigrants be allowed to get drivers licenses?
  • Should not wearing a seat-belt be illegal?
  • Should student’s textbooks be replaced by notebook computers or tablets?
  • Should students have to pass a basic skills test to graduate high school?
  • Should schools raise money by selling candy and sugary soft drinks to students?
  • Should schools serve french-fries and fried potato products to students at lunch?
  • Should students’ grades in gym affect their grade point averages?
  • Should girls be allowed to play on boys sports teams?
  • Should teens be able to buy violent video games?
  • Should boys and girls be in separate classes?
  • Should teenage girls be allowed to get birth control without the permission of their parents?
  • Should our country have free health care?
  • Should immigration laws be reformed?
  • Should the federal government recognize civil unions?
  • Should people who download music and movies illegally be punished?
  • Should school athletes have to be on the honor roll to play in games?
  • Should music with curse words be allowed at school dances?
  • Should public schools begin the day with a silent prayer time?
  • Should students be able to listen to music on headphones during study hall?
  • Should schools offer fast food options like McDonald’s or Taco Bell?
  • Should smoking be allowed at parks and other outdoor public venues?
  • Should cities offer free public Wi-Fi?
  • Should the government place a tax on junk food and fatty snacks?
  • Should the 2 nd amendment give citizens the right to own assault weaponry?
  • Should people traveling in airplanes have to undergo intensive security screenings?
  • Should genetically modified foods be sold with a warning label?
  • Should teachers have to pass a basic skills test every ten years to renew their certification?
  • Should people be allowed to keep exotic animals like chimpanzees or tigers?
  • Should people be allowed to keep pit-bull dogs?
  • Should the city offer a bike sharing program?
  • Should there be an ordinance citing people who fail to recycle $50?
  • Should there be an ordinance citing people who play music too loudly $50?
  • Should prostitution be legalized and regulated by the government?
  • Should celebrities who break the law face stricter penalties?
  • Should the government increase spending on the space program?
  • Should larger passengers have to pay for two plane or movie theater tickets?
  • Should children have to use booster seats in cars?
  • Should people have to get a license to become parents?
  • Should there be tougher federal restrictions for content on the internet?
  • Should people be allowed to curse on daytime television?
  • Should owners be legally accountable for clearing snow from sidewalks on their property?
  • Should sexual education be taught in public schools?
  • Should students be able to get free condoms at school?
  • Should students who commit cyber-bullying be suspended from school?
  • Should corporations be allowed to advertise in schools?
  • Should students be allowed to eat during class?
  • Should more be done to protect and preserve endangered animals?
  • Is it appropriate for students and teachers to be friends on Facebook?
  • Should students have open campus lunch periods?
  • Should abortions be legal?
  • Should abortions be legal in cases of rape and incest?
  • Should the death penalty be used to punish violent criminals?
  • Should students learn about world religions in public schools?
  • Should schools start later in the morning?
  • Should the USA end overseas military operations?
  • Should politicians be allowed to accept campaign contributions from corporate lobbyists?
  • Should people with terminal illnesses have the right to doctor assisted suicides?
  • Should Puerto Rico become a state?
  • Should stem cell researchers be able to use stem cells from aborted babies to cure diseases?
  • Should school athletes have to take drug tests?
  • Should professional athletes have to take drug tests?
  • Should America convert to the metric system?
  • Should high school students have to complete community service hours to graduate?
  • Should teens over 13 years of age be allowed into R rated movies?
  • Should state tests be given in other languages for ESL students?
  • Should scientists be allowed to test products intended for human use on animals?
  • Should unhealthy fast food products be sold with a warning label?
  • Should there be a tariff or tax on products manufactured outside of the country?
  • Should students or teachers receive money for scoring well on standardized tests?
  • Should everyone under the age of 17 have a 9:00 PM curfew?
  • Should schools with low scores on standardized tests be closed?
  • Should minors be allowed to drink alcoholic beverages in their homes with their parents’ consent?
  • Should students be allowed to drop out before they turn 18 years old?
  • Should alcohol manufacturers be allowed to advertise on television?
  • Should students as young as fourteen be allowed to hold jobs?
  • Should American families have a two child max rule to limit population growth?
  • Should children younger than thirteen be allowed to watch MTV or music videos?
  • Should people who are caught driving drunk lose their licenses for a year?
  • Should students who fail their classes be retained and have to repeat the grade?
  • Should large businesses and corporations be required to employ a number of minorities proportionate to the population?
  • Should female construction workers earn the same wages as males?
  • Should children in temporary living situations with a 3.0 GPA earn free college tuition?
  • Should gambling and sports-betting be illegal or should the government regulate it?
  • Should children who commit violent crimes be tried as adults?
  • Should the government be allowed to detain suspected terrorists without trial?
  • Should the government censor internet content deemed inappropriate?
  • Should teachers have to wear uniforms or have a dress code?
  • Should teachers be allowed to have cell phones in the classroom?
  • Should the state execute dogs that have bitten someone?
  • Should talking on a phone without a hands-free device while driving be illegal?

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930 Comments

Wessam bedear.

Thanks for your support and cooperation. It is really helped a lot . Much appreciated

Reginald Ademola

Thank you so much for making your resources freely available.

Eric Villari

Thanks for all the effort you’ve put into the site. I teach in Australia, and I tweak and change topics/wording to suit, but It’s a great survey course in general Literacy you’ve put together… Thanks!

Thank you so much. What an informative and comprehensive site. You have provided an array of persuasive topics. I love this site!!

Marg L Brewerton

Thank you for these ideas. An extra idea from one of my students: Should we fix earth or spend our money on interplanetary travel?

Barbara Pulehetoa

I love this website. thank you for making this website

amazing website helped a lot

In my language arts class we are assigned to write two opinion essays the first one my teacher gave us but the second one we choose. i have a trouble with choosing but now that i came to this website i can choose easily and fast. thank you, thank you, thank you for this website.

this site has been absolutely resourceful and its the best site iv been on

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150+ Persuasive Research Paper Topics: Unlocking the Power of Persuasion

persuasive research paper topics

Welcome, readers, to the world of persuasive research paper topics, where the art of persuasion meets the rigor of research. Selecting the right topic is the key to crafting an impactful research paper that not only engages but also convinces your audience. 

In this blog post, we’ll delve into the intricacies of choosing persuasive research paper topics that captivate minds and spark meaningful discussions.

Characteristics of Persuasive Research Topics

Table of Contents

Relevance to the Audience

Identifying your target audience is the first step in selecting a persuasive research paper topic. Consider their interests, concerns, and perspectives. Tailoring your topic to align with your audience’s values ensures that your research resonates with them, making your argument more persuasive.

Controversy and Debate

A persuasive research paper thrives on controversy and debate. Choosing topics with varying perspectives allows for a robust exploration of ideas. The goal is not just to present information but to engage your audience in critical thinking and thoughtful consideration of multiple viewpoints.

Real-world Significance

Ground your research paper in real-world significance by linking it to current events or societal issues. Highlighting the practical implications of your research adds weight to your argument and emphasizes the relevance of your chosen topic in the broader context.

Empower your academic journey with precision and eloquence. Seek from seasoned experts, ensuring your ideas flourish and your grades soar.

150+ Persuasive Research Paper Topics: Categories

Social issues.

  • Impact of Social Media on Mental Health
  • Advocating for Sustainable Practices to Combat Climate Change
  • Gender Equality in the Workplace
  • Addressing Racial Inequality in Criminal Justice
  • The Role of Education in Breaking the Poverty Cycle

Health and Medicine

  • Benefits and Risks of Genetic Modification
  • Mental Health Stigma: Breaking the Silence
  • Improving Healthcare Access in Underserved Communities
  • Vaccination Mandates: Balancing Individual Rights and Public Health
  • The Influence of Lifestyle on Longevity and Well-being

Technology and Innovation

  • Ethical Implications of Facial Recognition Technology
  • Privacy Concerns in the Era of Big Data
  • The Role of Artificial Intelligence in Enhancing Education
  • Cybersecurity Challenges in the Digital Age
  • Balancing Innovation and Ethical Considerations in Biotechnology

Education and Learning

  • The Efficacy of Online Learning Platforms
  • Inclusive Education: Addressing the Needs of Diverse Learners
  • The Impact of Standardized Testing on Student Well-being
  • Integrating Technology into Classroom Instruction
  • The Role of Arts Education in Holistic Development

Economics and Business

  • Corporate Social Responsibility: Beyond Profit
  • Sustainable Business Practices for a Greener Future
  • Income Inequality and Its Effects on Society
  • The Gig Economy: Balancing Flexibility and Job Security
  • The Impact of Globalization on Local Economies

Environmental Issues

  • Biodiversity Conservation: Preserving Earth’s Ecosystems
  • Renewable Energy: A Path to a Sustainable Future
  • Plastic Pollution: Finding Alternatives for a Cleaner Planet
  • Deforestation and its Consequences on Climate Change
  • Water Scarcity: Addressing the Global Crisis

Legal and Ethical Dilemmas

  • The Ethics of Human Cloning
  • Legalization of Marijuana: Balancing Health and Individual Freedom
  • Cybersecurity Laws and Internet Privacy
  • Animal Rights and Ethical Treatment in Research
  • The Death Penalty: Examining its Efficacy and Morality

Political Issues

  • Electoral Reform: Strengthening Democratic Systems
  • Immigration Policies and Humanitarian Considerations
  • Media Influence on Political Discourse
  • National Security vs. Individual Privacy: Striking the Balance
  • The Role of Youth in Shaping Political Movements

Cultural and Identity Issues

  • Cultural Appropriation: Understanding Boundaries
  • LGBTQ+ Rights: Striving for Equality Worldwide
  • Preserving Indigenous Languages and Cultures
  • The Impact of Pop Culture on Society’s Values
  • Immigrant Experiences: Navigating Identity in a New Culture

Psychology and Behavior

  • The Influence of Advertising on Consumer Behavior
  • Exploring the Psychology of Prejudice and Discrimination
  • The Role of Parenting Styles in Child Development
  • Addiction Treatment: Balancing Medical and Behavioral Approaches
  • The Impact of Social Influence on Decision-Making

Technology and Society

  • The Ethics of Drone Warfare: Balancing National Security and Civil Liberties
  • Augmented Reality in Education: Enhancing Learning Experiences
  • Digital Divide: Bridging the Gap for Equitable Technology Access
  • The Dark Web: Unraveling the Hidden Layers of the Internet
  • 3D Printing: Revolutionizing Manufacturing and Its Ethical Implications

Global Health Challenges

  • Access to Clean Water: A Global Human Right
  • Emerging Infectious Diseases: Preparedness and Response
  • Mental Health in Developing Countries: Breaking Stigmas
  • Maternal and Child Health in Low-Income Nations
  • The Impact of Globalization on the Spread of Infectious Diseases

Science and Ethics

  • CRISPR Technology: Editing Genes and Ethical Considerations
  • The Ethics of Animal Testing in Scientific Research
  • Space Exploration: Balancing Scientific Discovery and Environmental Impact
  • Human Enhancement Technologies: Navigating Ethical Boundaries
  • Biomedical Research and Informed Consent: Striking a Balance

Education Reforms

  • Project-Based Learning: Fostering Creativity and Critical Thinking
  • Competency-Based Education: Rethinking Traditional Grading Systems
  • Teacher Empowerment: Enhancing Professional Development
  • The Role of Arts Education in STEM Fields
  • Homeschooling: Exploring Alternatives to Traditional Education

Economic Development

  • Microfinance and its Impact on Alleviating Poverty
  • Cryptocurrencies and the Future of Global Finance
  • Fair Trade Practices: Ensuring Equitable Treatment of Workers
  • The Green Economy: Balancing Profit and Environmental Sustainability
  • Universal Basic Income: A Solution to Economic Inequality?

Climate Change Mitigation

  • Carbon Capture and Storage: A Solution to Reduce Greenhouse Gas Emissions
  • Sustainable Agriculture: Nurturing the Planet and Feeding the Population
  • Electric Vehicles: Transforming Transportation for a Greener Future
  • The Role of Forests in Climate Change Mitigation
  • Green Infrastructure: Building Resilient Cities for the Future

Human Rights Issues

  • Cybersecurity and Human Rights: Protecting Online Freedom
  • Child Labor: Eradicating Exploitative Practices Globally
  • Freedom of Speech in the Digital Age: Challenges and Solutions
  • Disability Rights: Ensuring Inclusivity in Society
  • Refugee Crisis: Addressing Humanitarian Concerns on a Global Scale

Social Justice Movements

  • #MeToo Movement: Addressing Sexual Harassment and Assault
  • Black Lives Matter: Advocating for Racial Equality and Justice
  • Disability Activism: Breaking Barriers and Challenging Stigmas
  • Indigenous Rights: Preserving Heritage and Ensuring Equality
  • Youth-Led Climate Activism: Inspiring Change for a Sustainable Future

Artificial Intelligence and Society

  • Bias in AI Algorithms: Addressing Ethical Concerns
  • Autonomous Vehicles: Balancing Safety and Technological Advancements
  • AI in Healthcare: Improving Diagnostics and Patient Care
  • Social Robots: Exploring the Impact on Human Relationships
  • Ethical Considerations in AI-Powered Decision-Making Systems

Public Health Policies

  • Sugar Tax: Tackling Obesity and Promoting Healthy Lifestyles
  • Mental Health First Aid: Empowering Communities to Provide Support
  • E-cigarettes and Vaping: Balancing Harm Reduction and Regulation
  • Healthcare Disparities: Strategies for Achieving Health Equity
  • Universal Healthcare: Assessing Feasibility and Benefits

Tips for Selecting Persuasive Research Paper Topics

  • Researching Current Trends and Issues: Stay informed about current trends and issues by utilizing reliable news sources and monitoring academic publications. Choose topics with ongoing debates to ensure the availability of diverse perspectives and up-to-date information.
  • Considering Personal Interest and Passion: Connect with your topic on a personal level. Your genuine enthusiasm for the subject matter enhances the persuasive power of your argument, making it more compelling for your audience.
  • Evaluating Credible Sources: Ensure your chosen topic has a wealth of credible sources. Avoid topics with limited academic literature, as a well-supported argument is more likely to persuade your audience.

Examples of Persuasive Research Paper Topics

Let’s explore some examples to inspire your research journey:

  • Analyzing the impact of social media on mental health
  • Advocating for sustainable practices to combat climate change
  • Exploring the benefits and risks of genetic modification
  • Examining the role of telemedicine in improving healthcare access
  • Evaluating the ethical implications of facial recognition technology
  • Arguing for increased regulation of artificial intelligence development

In the realm of persuasive research paper topics, your choices matter. Select topics that not only align with your audience’s interests but also contribute meaningfully to ongoing discussions. As you embark on your research journey, remember that the power of persuasion lies in your ability to engage, inform, and inspire change. Happy researching!

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75 Persuasive Essay Topic Ideas

JBirdwellBranson

The persuasive essay is one type of writing that you will likely come across in your academic career. A persuasive essay, if you're unfamiliar, is one in which you have to make an argument. You need to choose a side and prove why you're correct by using hard evidence and convincing language. The idea is that you want to convince the reader that your argument is the right one, so you'll definitely want to pick a topic that you're passionate about and something that you'll get excited about researching and writing. This exercise is designed so that you can clearly articulate your opinion and understand why it's important to have evidence to back up your claim.

Your teacher or instructor will probably have specific guidelines on what your essay should entail, but you might have a little bit of free reign on what kinds of topics you can explore and argue about in your essay. With so many things to argue about and for, it might be a little overwhelming to come up with a topic on your own. When you feel like you're stuck on brainstorming ideas, take a look at the following list of 75 persuasive essay topics. You may find something you can use, or something you can adapt for the specific guidelines of your paper. Happy writing!

Educational persuasive essay topics

There are so many things that can be discussed when it comes to education. In our country (and globally), there are many different opinions on how education should be handled and what tactics teachers or academic administrators should use. Here are a few topics on education (which could be expanded or changed to fit your teacher's guidelines) that might be of interest to you.

  • Should soda be offered in school cafeterias?
  • Should schools teach abstinence-only education?
  • Why should schools teach financial literacy?
  • Do all students need to go to college?
  • Should students take a gap year after high school?
  • Do all students need to learn a foreign language?
  • Is online or homeschool an effective way to learn?
  • Should standardized tests determine whether or not you go on to another grade level?
  • Should all students be required to participate in the arts?
  • Should a college education be free?
  • Should high school journalists be protected under the First Amendment?
  • Some universities just have pass/fail grades instead of letter grades. How do you feel about this?
  • Should teachers/professors be unbiased in the classroom?
  • Should you still learn cursive in elementary school? What are the disadvantages/ advantages?
  • Many college campuses have speakers come in occasionally. These speakers can range in political opinion and some can be controversial. Should you let speakers come to schools that have controversial rhetoric or ideas to uphold free speech?

Political persuasive essay topics

They say that you should never talk about politics or religion because it's not polite. But in a persuasive essay, that rule is completely extinguished. Politics and religion are hotbed subjects for a reason—because so many people have radically different ideas of how a society and a country should operate. What side of these political persuasive topics are you on? Take a stab at one of these and the paper will likely fly out onto the keyboard.

  • Should protesters be allowed to block traffic? Do they pose a threat to public safety?
  • Why should you vote?
  • Should same-sex marriage be legal?
  • What is your opinion on protecting religious liberties?
  • What is your opinion on separating church and state?
  • Why has the country become so divided politically over the past few years? Can it be fixed?
  • Many industries (like coal and manufacturing) are tough to find a job in and many Americans are out of work. How should we solve this problem?
  • Should citizens under 18 be able to vote?
  • Should a National Voter ID law be passed to avoid voter fraud?
  • What does the phrase "fake news" mean?
  • Local newspapers are dwindling. What should be done, if anything, about this problem?
  • Should local municipalities do more to combat global warming? If so, how?
  • How should we reduce the threat of terrorism in the United States?
  • Females have traditionally lower participation in politics. Why do you think that is?
  • Some people say that the top 1% of earners don't pay enough taxes. How do you feel about this?
  • Will a huge wall on the southern border with Mexico solve the United States' immigration problem?
  • How should we solve the United States' immigration problem?
  • The voter turnout for the 2016 presidential election was less than 60%, which is much lower than in other democratic societies. Why do you think this is and what can be done about it (or should anything be done about it)?
  • Millennials are graduating college with a lot of student loan debt. What should be done to avoid a debt crisis?
  • Many say that minimum wage jobs are low skill and the workers in them shouldn't be compensated more for their work, but others claim that a minimum wage job isn't enough money to live off of. Which side do you land on?
  • What do you think of celebrities who are vocal about environmental issues but who frequently fly on private, and not commercial, jets?

Crime and legal persuasive essay topics

Crime in any society is an unfortunate inevitability. Why does crime happen and what should be done about it? These are just a few of the things to explore in these crime/legal persuasive essay topics.

  • What should we do about a city with a high crime rate like Chicago?
  • Should guns be allowed on college campuses?
  • Should gun laws be more restrictive?
  • Do we have a right to privacy?
  • Trends have shown that many recent terrorists have been convicted or accused of domestic violence. What should be done and how do you feel about this?
  • Should we have the death penalty? If so, when should it be used?
  • Many prisoners are incarcerated for minor drug charges (such as possession of drugs or drug paraphernalia). Should we try to rehabilitate these prisoners or should they serve their full sentences?
  • Colorado has legalized marijuana for recreational purposes. What is your opinion of this?
  • Do you think marijuana is a gateway drug which leads some users to harder drugs?
  • Can criminals be rehabilitated?
  • Many prisoners who enter the system are likely to have a high recurrence of criminal activity. What can be done to solve this?
  • Many people are starting to use drones for recreational activity. Should there be restrictions on where and how you can use your personal drone?
  • Self-driving cars are expected to become increasingly used on city roads. If a self-driving car gets into an accident, whose fault is it? The engineer's?

Health persuasive essay topics

Health is something that we all have to worry about. Whether it's our own health or the health of a loved one, there are many things to think about and research on. What's your opinion on the healthcare system in our country? Should we treat drug addiction like a disease? How should we handle end-of-life care? Try out one of these essay topics to research and gain insight on some of the biggest challenges and questions that our society faces when it comes to health.

  • Opioid addiction is at an all-time high in states like Ohio. What should we do to combat this?
  • Should healthcare be universal?
  • How do you feel about paternity leave?
  • Should women get guaranteed maternity leave?
  • The state of California requires that you display nutrition facts about menu items in restaurants. Should all states do this?
  • Should fast food be "sin taxed" like cigarettes are?
  • There is an effort to repeal and replace the Affordable Care Act. Should we do this or not? If we should, what improvements can be made to a replacement act?
  • Many soldiers are coming back from warfare with Post Traumatic Stress Disorder. What should we do to help them?
  • Many Americans are overweight. What has caused this health crisis and what can be done about it?
  • Should vitamins and supplements be more tightly regulated?
  • Should health insurance companies provide more financial incentives for subscribers to work out and eat more healthfully?

Women's and gender persuasive essay topics

Are there inherent differences between men and women or is that just a societal myth? Women have gained a lot more rights over the last 100 years in America, but some say they still have a long way to go before they achieve equal rights. How do you feel about this and other women's and gender issues? Explore the following fascinating topics.

  • Women have what is known as the "second shift" (meaning that as soon as they get home from work they have additional responsibilities that require their attention immediately). What do you think about this concept and should anything be done about it?
  • There are many women's rights and minority rights advocates. Should there be men's rights advocacy groups? What about Caucasian advocacy groups?
  • Some people say that gender is a socially constructed norm. What do you think?
  • Women who participate in body building competitions are trying to build the "ideal" figure, which some claim is an outdated, sexist idea. But some argue that building muscles is considered a sport and a traditionally "masculine" idea. Which side do you agree with?
  • Some people think that beauty pageants are outdated and anti-feminist and shouldn't be televised anymore. How do you feel?
  • New wave feminism is the idea that feminism can encompass many different ideas of what it is to be a feminist. It's the idea that you can have choices (whether that's staying at home with children or trying to be a CEO). How do you feel about new wave feminism?

Miscellaneous persuasive essay topics

Of course, there are more categories of essay topics than what are listed above. Here are some additional essay topics if you haven't found one yet that captures your interest.

  • Does social media improve or hurt our society?
  • Is it important or frivolous to travel the world?
  • Many Americans watch a lot of reality TV shows. Why do you think this is?
  • With many people reading digital copies of books, are libraries necessary anymore?
  • Should anything be done to curb the rise in offensive lyrics in music?
  • Should pregnant women be allowed to park in handicapped parking spots?
  • Recent studies have shown that pets improve the mental and the physical health of their owners. Should pet-related expenses be tax-deductible?
  • What do you think about net neutrality?
  • With the rise in selfies and Instagram photo filtering apps, do you think we have become a more self-obsessed society?
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150 Argumentative Research Paper Topics [2024 Upd.]

Argumentative research paper topics are a lot easier to find than to come up with. We always try to make your life easier. That’s why you should feel free to check out this list of the hottest and most controversial argumentative essay topics for 2024. In the article prepared by custom writing experts, you’ll find unique ideas for college, high school, and middle school. You might want to take your favorite topic as it is, or use it as an example and formulate one by yourself. Another option would be to tale the main keywords and try them on a research paper topic generator in order to get more choices.

OK, let’s cut to the chase, and continue with our suggested argumentative topics for 2024!

🔝 Top 10 Argumentative Research Paper Topics

  • ⭐ Top 10 Argumentative Essay Topics
  • 📱 Topics on Social Media
  • 👪 Topics on Family
  • 👨‍⚕️ Topics on Health and Nutrition
  • 🗳️ Topics on Government
  • 💡 Other Topic Ideas
  • 🕵️‍♂️ Choosing a Topic
  • 🧱 Writing Rules
  • 📑 Organizing Your Paper

🔍 References

  • The benefits of GMOs
  • Is online dating dangerous?
  • Ways to reduce college tuitions
  • Should school athletes get paid?
  • Alternatives to the death penalty
  • Why is passive smoking dangerous?
  • How can we regulate YouTube content?
  • Should junk food advertisements be banned?
  • Should parents answer for children’s misbehavior?
  • How do wildfires contribute to global warming?

⭐ Top 10 Argumentative Essay Topics 2024

🚬 Should vaping be illegal?
🎨 Are NFTs the future of art?
🌳 Benefits of pandemics for the nature
🧪 Why vaccinations should be mandatory
📱 Should TikTok be banned in schools?
👓 The drawbacks of VR technologies
🏥 Artificial intelligence benefits for the healthcare
🌐 Can the Internet of Things be used in education?
🔗 Is blockchain damaging for the environment?
💬 Does censorship negate the freedom of speech?

📱 Argumentative Research Paper Topics on Social Media

  • Hiding identities online: should it be allowed? Anonymous surveys are not an unusual thing anymore. However, people can leave pretty offensive comments without naming themselves. It all leads to them feeling invincible. Should this function be removed for the sake of equality and justice?
  • Will GIFs become a new way of communication? People are getting more used to exchanging emoji and GIFs as a reaction to something. But is it a good idea? Can it affect our behavior patterns and the way we express our emotions in real life?
  • Online shaming and bullying: where is the limit? Since practically anyone can be active online these days, shaming has become an enormous problem. No one watches it, and only turning off the comment option is a way out. But other than that, who is in control of the unstopping flow of abusive comments?
  • Punctuation and spelling mistakes in texting. We all know someone who goes crazy when they see the slightest mistake in the text message. They may get pretty annoying, that’s true. But does it really matter? Or should we take it easy on spelling mistakes in the text messages?
  • Social media: helping us connect or contributing to loneliness? They say social media connects people from all over the world. But despite having thousands of friends online and hundreds of likes under photos, we can still feel lonely. Why is it happening?
  • How has Snapchat changed the social media industry?
  • Should there be a limit for sending text messages?
  • The impact of social media on the phenomenon of narcissism.
  • The issue of missing real life while filming?
  • Advantages and disadvantages of social media for college students. 
  • What is the value of digital photos compared to those taken by film cameras?
  • What would make people delete their Facebook account?
  • Are new popular game apps a part of the culture?
  • Should social media consider adding a “dislike” function?
  • Screen time matters: what makes people stare at their phones so much?
  • The decline of Facebook’s popularity and its reasons.
  • How to only choose useful apps for your smartphone.
  • Employers on Facebook: why should you be careful with your content?
  • They are watching you: how to keep your privacy online?
  • The issue of fake profiles online.
  • Is there still a deep meaning in digital photography?
  • Do influencers have fun spending hours taking a perfect shot?
  • Mental health and social media: is there anyone to help?
  • The optimal age restriction for new social media users.
  • Manipulating people’s feelings online: dangers.

👪 Family Argumentative Topics 2024

  • How traumatic is the divorce of the parents for a child? There is no doubt that children are sensitive in terms of the relationship between their parents. Usually, kids blame themselves for the split of the family. As it often happens, they also go through a divorce in their adulthood.
  • Kids’ rooms: why privacy matters? Parents don’t usually think about the privacy of their children. They rush to invade in their rooms without permission and go through their stuff. How does it affect the perception of trust in kids?
  • Should we reconsider the age restrictions for starting a family? The age when young couples decide to get married and start a family varies from culture to culture. However, sometimes it appears that they are not ready for that. Should we think about implementing some restrictions to protect their mental and physical health?
  • What is the optimal age for children to travel without supervision? It is also a matter of personal preference. However, there must be some limits. Up until a specific age, parents are fully responsible for the safety of their children. But kids need some freedom. What should be a solution?
  • Where is the line between discipline and child abuse? Unfortunately, some parents don’t know when to stop. It is normal to practice some disciplinary methods, but crossing the line is dangerous. A child’s mental health is on stake. What parents see as a light punishment, may look like an act of hate and abuse for a child. 
  • Should fathers spend as much time with their kids as mothers do?
  • Choosing the teenagers’ outfits or letting them do it?
  • Sharing the records of the students with parents: is it the right decision?
  • Limiting the screen time of children and the benefits.
  • Who should teach kids how to behave?
  • The community approach to building families and raising kids.
  • Traveling around as a family: benefits for the relationship between the family members.
  • Are parents violating children’s rights by posting pictures of them online?
  • Pursuing parents’ dreams: do children have a choice?
  • Bribing kids: is it for their sake or to spare a minute of peace for parents?
  • The effect of modern culture on childhood.
  • No punishment: what is the effect on children?
  • Teaching children responsibility without pushing them to do chores.
  • Buying your kids expensive technology: is it worth it?
  • A life without store-bought toys: the benefits.
  • Pros and cons of moving outside the city as a family.
  • Is it appropriate for kids to watch horror movies?
  • Are there restrictions for Halloween costumes, and what are they?
  • Encouraging children without giving them too many trophies.
  • How are parents shaping the children’s behavior unconsciously?

👨‍⚕️ Argumentative Research Paper Topics on Health and Nutrition

  • What is the role of nutrition in professional sports (e.g., soccer)? We all know professional athletes train a lot. But how important is nutrition in that process? Why do they follow different diets and still get pretty much the same results? Are there specific foods that help them win?
  • Are French fries considered a part of your vegetable intake? Most of us probably wish it was true. Well, potatoes are vegetables, frying oils are made of plants as well. What’s the problem? It appears it is not that simple.
  • Why are school diets not as healthy as we wish they were? Parents all over the world would surely like to see some nutritious and healthy lunches at schools. But the reality is far from that, especially in the US. Why do only some schools implement healthy diets for school lunches?
  • Why is reading the lists of ingredients on the products so important? Unfortunately, most people don’t have a clue about what they eat and where it comes from. The worst part is that it may contribute to their health issues in the future. Reading the labels can save people from consuming harmful foods.
  • E-cigarettes and under-aged: should teenagers use them? Maybe e-cigarettes are not as harmful as the usual smoke, but they still carry some risks. Moreover, they increase the chance that people would start smoking tobacco later. So why do we allow teens to use them?
  • The age restrictions on alcohol: should the limits be lowered?
  • What is the effectiveness of the pictures on the tobacco packs?
  • The health risks connected with cosmetic surgeries.
  • Are the diets that models follow healthy enough?
  • Marijuana and science: what are the effects of this drug on our health?
  • Why do looks matter more in our society than being healthy?
  • Implementing required drug tests for school students: pros and cons.
  • The hidden harm of the regular consumption of energy drinks.
  • The phenomenon of binge drinking in the US.
  • What are the restrictions on the amount of sugar in soft drinks?
  • The methods colleges can implement to reduce the drinking problem among students.
  • Distracted driving: is it as serious and drunk driving?
  • What is the real importance of not skipping breakfast?
  • The issue of texting while driving from the perspective of being illegal.
  • The best and healthiest variation of the school lunch.
  • Do schools have the right to ban unvaccinated students?
  • Legal suicides from the perspective of ethics.
  • Terminal diseases: should patients decide how they end their lives?
  • Is there a way to prevent teenagers from smoking?
  • Why do people keep eating chips even when they know it’s not healthy?

🗳️ Government Argumentative Essay Topics 2024

  • Authorities and values: what moral obligations should people with power have? Power doesn’t mean permission to do anything they want. Political leaders are obligated to use it wisely. But what are the standards? Should it be just a common sense of morality or something more?
  • Do our political leaders lead us in the right direction? Everybody must have wondered about it at least once. It is undoubtedly hard to trust our leaders without any doubts. They set the course of our lives. But how do we know whether they do it for the good of each and every citizen without exceptions?
  • To raise or not to raise: the question of the minimum wage. Many people are struggling with finances, and the rise of the minimum wage would help them out. This research can focus on supporting this idea by presenting strong arguments.
  • How achievable is the American dream when you start in the US from scratch? We all heard successful stories about the poor becoming millionaires in the US. But how far is it from reality? What are the real chances of people with low income to become self-made wealthy business owners?
  • Global crisis: who is responsible for refugees? It’s not the refugees’ fault that wars have come to their home countries. Just like any other human being, they need our help. But who decides which country should take them? Who is responsible?
  • American democracy: how strongly citizens believe in it?
  • Politics becoming more friendly and outgoing: pros and cons.
  • Are we paying back enough to the veterans?
  • Why is the US considered to be the best country?
  • Illegal immigrants and education: the rights and responsibilities.
  • The new authorities: should the opposition still deny it or become open-minded?
  • Immigrants with no documentation: what are the consequences of leaving them in peace? 
  • The importance of the first lady nowadays.
  • Pay-offs: should we just pay terrorists to free the hostages?
  • Why is the current voting system failing?
  • Some of the most effective ways to encourage people to vote.
  • The morality of spying on fellow countries.
  • The most beneficial way to spend the city’s extra budget.
  • Knowing the right time: negotiating with opponent countries.
  • The most common issues city mayors should address immediately.
  • In what situations the military is allowed to use force without doubts?
  • How much taxes should millionaires pay?
  • Why do governments prefer national safety over our privacy?
  • Should all governments allow same-sex marriages?
  • Young leaders: at what age should people start pursuing politics?

💡 Other Research Paper Topic Ideas

  • Fallacies of Afrocentrism.
  • Antisemitism in the world today.
  • Controversy over children being made into models.
  • Money is the root of all evil.
  • Corporal punishment.
  • The right age for drinking.
  • Doping and sports: possible misunderstandings
  • Extended breastfeeding: pros and cons.
  • Do we have to talk about feminism that much?
  • Food safety training and its outcomes.
  • U.S. border control: the insights.
  • Incest: why is this love forbidden?
  • Child advocacy: is it effective enough?
  • Child adoption by a gay family. 
  • DADT repeal and its importance.
  • The minimum wage in your state.
  • The impact of the Gold Rush on California’s native communities.
  • Native American sovereignty issues.
  • The Pledge of Allegiance: was adding “under God” in 1954 to it the right choice?
  • The effectiveness of military action against terrorism.
  • What isn’t worth going to war for?
  • War tax: to pay or to resist?
  • You’re allowed to be cast in pornographic movies when you’re 18. But it’s not OK for you to buy alcohol until you’re 21? Where’s the logic?
  • Homelessness: whose fault is it?
  • Premarital sex: is it a problem in American society?
  • Legalized prostitution.
  • Tolerance for nudism and naturism.
  • Shorter work weeks.
  • Video games: leisure, or abuse?
  • What’s happening at the zoo? Animal abuse and problems of animals living in captivity.

Research paper writing is not the most complicated academic assignment; and still, it does take a lot of time! Our argumentative essay topic ideas are meant to save your time when you need to choose what to write about.

Also be sure to check out our great article with 50 more argumentative research paper topics – it has a lot of useful ideas for your next amazing essay.

🕵️‍♂️ Choosing an Argumentative Paper Topic

Writing a college argumentative research paper is not as easy as it may seem at first glance. In fact, the difficulties start right from the beginning—choosing the right topic. We may have handed you a great list of argumentative topics, but still it takes a careful eye to pick a topic to write about. If you choose the wrong topic, you might get stuck with your writing and have a hard time moving forward.

But don’t worry! Soon you will have no more questions about how to write an argumentative essay.

Why is that?

There are several essential criteria to be considered when choosing easy topics to write on. And you will discover them right now.

Argumentative Essay: Writing Rules

Here are the basic rules:

  • Write about what you know. Although this may seem obvious to some students, you need to have some basic knowledge about the chosen topic. You probably already have some topics you are familiar with, so opting for one of them will save you time and effort. Even research won’t frighten you away because you will know where to start.
  • Find things that you’re passionate about and write about them. Essentially, this is a recommendation rather than a rule. The more you like your essay topic, the easier it will be to generate solid and engaging content that your audience will like.
  • Don’t choose anything too broad; stay specific. It’s okay to think of some general topics at first, but then you should gradually narrow your topics down to just a few. The last remaining ones will be the ones you feel most comfortable with.
  • Make sure your thesis has enough defense. Choosing a wonderful topic that is not protected against potential counterarguments is a common mistake among students. So think twice before making your final choice, and consider the evidence you have available.
  • Opt for an argument that will appeal to your audience’s emotions. By making your readers emotionally relate to your words and position, you’ll connect them with what you’re trying to express. You’ll certainly have to include rational arguments in your paper, but choosing a topic that doesn’t trigger any feeling isn’t the best choice.
  • Choose a topic that is directly related to your assignment. Before starting to research and write, you’ll need to get closely acquainted with your task instead of just scanning it. Carefully check all the keywords to understand the essence of the assignment. Missing even minor details or instructions can break your paper!
  • Stay away from topics that don’t have two sides of the problem. Don’t forget that an argumentative essay is all about the argument. No argument means no argumentative essay. Before you start writing, take some notes: write down your thesis and an opposing thesis or an argument with its counterargument. Thinking carefully and writing it all down will save you time!

📑 Organizing Your Argumentative Paper

Here we’ll explain how to organize your argumentative essay. Keep in mind that your paper structure still has to stay flexible to meet the needs of your purpose and your readers. Our recommendation? Create an argumentative essay outline to make the writing process faster and easier.

Introduction

This part lays a solid foundation for your argumentative paper by providing answers to the reader’s questions:

  • What is in front of me?
  • Why should I read it?
  • What do you want me to do?

Let’s see how these three questions can be answered in the basic steps for how to write an essay introduction:

  • Give some background information about the main idea and provide an explanation of the issue and the situation. Your reader should understand the topic, as well as your claims and their support.
  • Explain the importance of the main idea. This step will convince the reader to keep reading and really care about the content.
  • Describe your thesis/claim with logos, pathos, and ethos . Compose a few sentences that support your position with writer’s logic (logos), emotional appeals (pathos), and author’s trustworthiness/credibility (ethos).

Body paragraphs

Your argumentative essay should have body paragraphs that each look like an inverted pyramid: moving from general to specific. The broadest idea is located at the top, and as you continue writing, you become more concentrated on the main point, eventually coming to specific evidence to support your claim.

Good Argumentative Essay Paragraph

The following four elements are present in a good argumentative essay paragraph (also called TTEB ):

  • A transition sentence assures smooth reading by leading from one paragraph to the next.
  • A topic sentence explains to the reader what will be discussed in a paragraph.
  • Specific evidence and analysis support your claim. They provide more detail than a topic sentence.
  • A brief wrap-up (or a warrant) explains to the reader why and in what way this information supports the thesis. Basically, it connects your evidence to your main argument. It also demonstrates how the paragraph is connected to your thesis and assists in defending it.

This part of your essay concludes the discussion in your paper. The conclusion is a generalization and restating of the argument’s main points. It may also include a call to action or suggest further research. Here’s what any conclusion should do:

  • Restate the topic.
  • Tell why the chosen topic is important.
  • Restate the specific thesis/claim.
  • Cover opposing points of view.
  • Make readers align with the writer’s position.
  • Call readers to action or propose further research.

These core elements are the critical final steps in writing an argumentative essay.

Our advice is to discover more tips and ideas for choosing argumentative essay samples to know what exactly argumentative essays look like. You can also get professional help from qualified essay writers from Custom-Writing.org.

Learn more on this topic:

  • Top Ideas for Argumentative or Persuasive Essay Topics
  • 97 Inspirational & Motivational Argumentative Essay Topics
  • Great Persuasive & Argumentative Essay on Divorce
  • Gun Control Essay: How-to Guide + Argumentative Topics
  • Proposal Essay Topics and Ideas – Easy and Interesting
  • Free Exemplification Essay Examples

✏️ Argumentative Research Paper FAQ

An argumentative research paper is a piece of writing you work on when you need to defend your position. You have an issue, and you have your point of view. All you need to do is to write an essay strong enough to persuade your opponents. There are specific writing steps, too.

Some good argumentative research paper topics would always be related to the theme you feel passionate about. For example, if you think that every life is precious, consider writing about the death penalty. Or if you enjoy promoting a healthy lifestyle, you can write a persuasive statement on youth alcoholism.

A debatable question is such a question that can encourage the start of a debate. Some people would support the issue, while others would disagree because they have doubts. It means that the opposition would try to persuade others. Mostly, such questions are related to moral issues, politics, and gender equality.

Today, the most debated topics are controversial and related to human rights, environmental issues, gender equality, as well as women’s rights. For instance, some people insist that climate change is not the most important problem now. Others would disagree and argue that we need to take action immediately to prevent the collapse of the ecosystem.

  • Research Papers | KU Writing Center
  • Purdue OWL: Research Papers–Choosing a Topic
  • What is a Research Paper? | Online Writing Center
  • Project Topics Research Papers – Academia.edu
  • 200 Prompts for Argumentative Writing – The New York Times
  • Thesis Generator | Ashford Writing Center
  • Social Media Studies | SAGE Publications Inc
  • List of issues Journal of Family Studies – Taylor & Francis Online
  • Journal of Child and Family Studies | Home – Springer
  • Nutrition | Nutrition Studies Research Group | Stanford Medicine
  • American Society for Nutrition – Nutrition Research & Practice
  • List of issues Local Government Studies
  • Argumentative Paper Format. University of Washington
  • Suggestions for Developing Argumentative Essays. UC Berkeley
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Top 100 Research Topics & Titles about Food & TVL

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A persuasive speech on any topic is a performance designed to convince people about something and prove your point. Choosing a suitable topic is crucial for your speech’s success. Do you need some help with finding easy topics for a persuasive speech? Then check these fantastic and easy ideas from...

Research topic about TVL, please

The best one!

Hi guys, I’m stuck in the mind of blankness. I have to do a term paper by Monday on Corporate social responsibilities on Shell Corrib Gas and can’t think off my heading or argument. I have a lot of information. Just don’t know where to begin. Please help 🙁

Thank you so much for providing these topics! I have been searching and searching for topics for the English course, which I will be taking for the third time! I am most definitely sure that one of these topics will be suitable! I appreciate it very much! Again, thank you!

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Oh my God, I was searching for all of these. Thank you so… must. Best argumentative topics!

What about the rainforest? I know people have arguments about the trees getting cut down. Why don’t kids have a say in this all too?

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Well, you certainly can use that topic – as long as you feel the most comfortable and confident about it. It’s essential to be able to prove your point of view. The ideas which we are offering are just suggestions for possible topics:) We wish you good luck with your argumentative research paper:)

This is amazing! Thank you very much for this list of topics!

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170 persuasive research paper topics: top ideas for top grades.

Persuasive Research Paper Topics

Whenever professors assign students to work on a research paper, they expect them to choose a unique, engaging, and research-worthy topic for the article. However, such a task is daunting and frustrating to most students. Are you one of the frustrated lot thinking about where to begin looking for persuasive research paper topics? Well, look no more!

What Is a Persuasive Research Paper?

A persuasive paper is written to convince the reader to accept a particular point of view or take a specific action. It is like the analogy of a lawyer arguing out a case before a jury. As a writer, you will take your stand on an issue—either “for” or “against”—and build the strongest possible argument to win over your reader.

To have a top-notch persuasive paper, you need to conduct adequate research, awareness of the reader’s biases, and a solid understanding of the two opposing sides of the issue. Strong persuasive papers demonstrate the correctness of your opinion and why the opposite view is incorrect.

How To Write Winning Persuasive Research Topics

Since the primary purpose of persuasive writing is to convince rather than inform an audience, it is essential to structure your topic in a persuading manner. Here are writing tips for topics for persuasive research paper:

Choose a position Understand your audience Conduct adequate research Identify the most convincing evidence

With these, you can build the strongest possible argument in your writing process. Now let’s look at some of the best persuasive paper topics:

Persuasive Research Paper Topics For College Students

  • Why college students should not carry their laptops to school
  • Should college students participate in activism activities like the Black Lives Matter movement
  • Reasons why college students should don school uniform when going to class
  • The state should offer free scholarships to public universities
  • Racism impedes equal access to education
  • Why college students are lazy in conducting their research
  • Grants and scholarships should go to students from humble backgrounds
  • College students still need supervision when using the internet at any time
  • Boycotting and strikes in universities compels the administration to act on issues fast
  • Why we should review the academic curriculum annually
  • College students should participate in athletics
  • The best way to perform better is through regular exercises
  • Males have the potential of beating their female counterparts in sciences

Persuasive Research Paper Topics For High School Students

  • Why students should not use mobile devices in class during the lesson
  • Meaningful ways to spend your weekend
  • Why family come-together is essential for any child
  • High school students should not have boyfriends and girlfriends
  • Why students should not carry packed lunch or water
  • Reasons why students should bring their pets to school
  • Advantages of using the school bus over personal means
  • Teachers should supervise students during exam sessions
  • Why students should not take their assignments to online writing sites
  • Why the internet is making students lazy than before
  • Reasons why the state should ban school trips
  • Students should have a fair amount of homework for the weekend and holidays
  • Why schools should not offer junk food in their meal timetables

Psychology Persuasive Research Paper Topics

  • Death sentences affect the mental well-being of the family members
  • Suspects and convicts should have the right to confess or not
  • Religion should not be the basis of specific decisions
  • Why sexual abuse leaves a permanent scar on the victims
  • Reasons why coaches and trainers have an impact on the team performance
  • Why most youths and teenagers are victims of apathy
  • Why everyone should consider their perception
  • Why love, passion, and romance are shared today
  • Social media is an excellent cause of emotional discomfort among teenagers
  • The role of society in supporting orphan children
  • Why everyone needs belonging
  • The essence and consequence of feeling guilty
  • Factors that make some people attracted towards others

Good Topics For a Persuasive Research Paper

  • Why teachers should pass psychological tests before being allowed to teach
  • Reasons why most men pursue science-related courses
  • Why schools should make semester dates shorter
  • The necessity of physical education in elementary learning
  • Why parents should be more concerned about their children’s educational process
  • Why hacking and phishing attracts more male teenagers
  • Should partners spy on each other?
  • Why genetic engineering is necessary for the 21st century
  • Why vaccines should take one year
  • Reasons why most journalism courses attracted many applicants
  • Why students should not be subjected to online learning
  • Should people keep wild animals as pets in their homes?
  • Why the government should ban the use of fossil fuels

Persuasive Research Paper Topics For Marketing

  • Television advertisements attract more audience than newspaper ads
  • Why ladies are more likely to buy advertised products than men
  • Reasons why most advertisers prefer outdoor marketing
  • Psychological considerations when preparing advertising messages
  • Why social media is a new form of digital marketing
  • Reasons why advertisers are not offering their clients what they advertise
  • Taxation on products is killing marketing strategies
  • Why marketing is replacing the news hole in broadcast and print
  • Why the government should ban the advertisement of an alcoholic product on TV
  • Reasons why short and long term goals are essential in business
  • Why market research is a key to starting any form of business
  • Reasons why cold emailing potential customers work
  • Why every business should know its place in the market

Good Persuasive Paper Topics on Ethical Issues

  • Should men contractors receive the same pay as their female counterparts?
  • Why doctors should utilize euthanasia when they run out of options
  • Why life sentences are better than death sentences
  • Why rats and pigs should not be used to test vaccines
  • Reasons why influencing unborn children’s genetics is not ethical
  • Why should people with pre-existing medical conditions donate blood?
  • The impact of stereotypes in employment
  • Why eating pork is not unethical after all
  • Reasons why the buying and wearing of fur clothes are unethical
  • Reasons why female patients do not prefer male nurses in their wards
  • Why donating to charities should not be brought on national TV
  • Should journalists take photos of people dying from hunger
  • Why scanning machines at entrances are invading people’s privacy

Environmental Persuasive Paper Topics For College

  • Why the government needs to impose more regulations on environmental conservation
  • Why garden owners should not grow exotic plants
  • Reasons why the government should reduce the number of diesel vehicles on the roads
  • The sun contains plenty of untapped health benefits
  • Why should every neighborhood have a recycling plant?
  • Why hydraulic fracturing is dangerous
  • Are hybrid cars the solution to air pollution on the roads?
  • Why palm oil is becoming dangerous on human skin
  • The government should impose more fishing restrictions on lakes
  • Environmentally sensitive regions should be under state protection
  • It is critical of everyone to be mindful of rare species
  • More decisive measures should come in implementing alternative sources of energy
  • Ways of reducing the use of paper through natural means

Persuasive Paper Topics Middle School

  • Why the school buffet menu is not sufficient
  • Elementary learning should be made accessible for all the population
  • Why students should not take long breaks after the end of an academic year
  • Why schools do not have enough time to fit all the curriculum programs
  • Ways of making middle school education affordable for all
  • Why middle school education in developed nations is sought more than in developing nations
  • Why all students should not be forced to go to college or university
  • Reasons why homework is unnecessary during weekdays
  • Reasons why international exams are not applicable for all students
  • Why children should be prepared for school before joining kindergarten
  • Grading in schools kills the motivation of most students to continue learning
  • Why corporal punishment produces disciplined and self-directed students
  • Reasons why students should embrace home-based education

Good Topics For Persuasive Paper in Medicine

  • Why everyone needs to have access to affordable medical care
  • Reasons why contraceptive treatments are destroying lives rather than saving
  • It is possible to prevent infectious diseases more effectively
  • Why dark chocolate is not bad for your health after all
  • Reasons why a positive mindset can help prevent you from becoming sick more often
  • Reasons why First Aid is taught in high school
  • Why it is safe to chew tobacco than to smoke it
  • Reasons why it is not advisable to attend to accident victims without the assistance of a medical practitioner
  • Food additives are silently killing people without them knowing it
  • Until what age should mothers stop breastfeeding their children?
  • Natural ways of maintaining a healthy lifestyle
  • Why patients should take injections over tablets and syrups
  • Reasons why people should not donate their organs at whatever age

Call to Action Persuasive Paper Topics

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List of Persuasive Paper Topics in 2023

  • Reasons why studying religion is motivational
  • Sleeping for eight hours is not suitable for your mental activity
  • Eating a lot of desserts will bring problems to your stomach
  • Walking out alone in the night makes you brave
  • Why playing violent video games will make you aggressive
  • Reasons why most IT specialists wear glasses
  • Why you should start your own business rather than being employed
  • Reasons why most men are proud of their beards
  • Why ladies put a lot of emphasis on their wardrobe than men
  • Why you should apply for a Masters’ degree today
  • Most last-born siblings like crying a lot
  • Why it is possible to score an A in a campus exam
  • How to control your eating habits

History Persuasive Research Paper Topics

  • Reasons why most empires fell
  • The world wars taught us more painful lessons than ever
  • Why the Ottoman Empire is still significant today
  • Why it was possible to prevent World War II from happening
  • Reasons for the fall of the Mongol Empire power
  • Mahatma Gandhi contributed a lot to world peace today
  • Why freedom fighters loved their countries
  • Causes of apartheid in South Africa
  • Why Jamaica has a rich history
  • Europeans and the colonization
  • Nuclear weapons and war
  • The history between China and the US
  • History of Women Rights Movements
  • Lessons from ancient conquests

Persuasive Paper Topics on Cyber Security

  • Privacy and data security issues
  • Cloud computing and security
  • Human-based behavior and cybersecurity
  • Policies for organizational security management
  • Privacy issues in the Internet of Things
  • Computer security in Software installation
  • Security and biometrics
  • Impact of Apps on mobile platform security
  • Working remedies for Ransomware
  • The best antivirus in the world
  • How to encrypt viruses
  • Importance of cybersecurity audits
  • Essentials of intranet security

These are some of the quality persuasive paper topics. You can also ask for cheap but professional research paper writing help from our experts today.

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110+ Irresistible Persuasive Essay Topics And Titles

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Persuasive essays are the type of essays that aim to influence the thoughts and ideas of the readers with the help of supporting evidence. The most crucial part of a convincing essay is the topic or the thesis statement, because it provides a direction to the entire essay.

If you are assigned to write a persuasive essay and you have no ideas or topics in mind, checkout this blog for the best  paper writing help  in effective essay topics for your highschool and college assignments.

persuasive essay topics for college

Table of Contents

Persuasive Essay Topics For College

These essays can be written on any topic because they cover a vast range of studies. In the below section, we have divided the persuasive writing examples and titles into different categories.

20 Persuasive Essay Prompts About Science And Technology

The incredible science and technological research are ever changing sectors of life that always bring new research papers, inventions, and advancements for the students to observe and analyze. So we have provided tons of ideas whether it is for tech or  science research topics  for students. Now by continuing the legacy we are taking readers towards the persuasive essay topics college students can write on in this category. 

  • Is a trip to the moon possible in the near future?
  • What are the chances that humans can live on Mars?
  • What do the vaccines do?
  • How screen time affects physical health?
  • Climate Change: Reality or Hoax
  • Safety on Social media
  • Chances of Consumer Data Theft
  • Stopping Animal Testing
  • Are placebos ethical?
  • Why does AI need to Stop?
  • What are the chances of the FBI monitoring our internet history?
  • Can Solar Storm End the Internet of the world?
  • Science Labs importance in Colleges
  • Most needed Technological advancements
  • Are genetically modified foods safe?
  • How is space exploration wasting earth resources?
  • Should People be allowed to clone themselves?
  • What are the chances that aliens are already on earth?
  • Why Technology is becoming a threat?
  • What is the scientific solution for pollution?

Easy Convincing Essay Topics About Sports

Sports are an everyday part of our lives and also on the international level where they represent the athletic expertise of countries. Following are the best topics for persuasive essays in the category of sports and activities.

  • Why Trans Women shouldn’t be Allowed in Women’s Sports?
  • The best sports in the world 
  • World Olympics and Its Advantages
  • Why are sports not the reason students fail?
  • Why Professional athletes needs to pay less
  • What’s better? Watching or Playing Sports
  • How Sports contribute in Country’s development
  • Summer Vs Winter Sports
  • Fundamental of Professional Sports 
  • Gender biases in Sports committees
  • Why is Athletic Pharmacology so important?
  • Why do college athletes need to be paid?
  • Stop Denying that Cheerleading is a Sport.
  • Michael Jordan Vs Labron James
  • Is Basketball only for Tall players?
  • Muggsy Bogues: The Shortest NBA Player 
  • Why football is so great of a sport
  • How does a sport represent country 
  • Most popular sports around the world
  • What sports can be played even in rain

Best Persuasive Essay Topics About Entertainment

Entertainment industry is one of the top grossing and most followed industries all over the world. Fans all around the world are always ready to read about their favorite stars and their life. The following essay topics given by  our writers  are falling into the entertainment category.

  • Best Rock Bands of The Century 
  • BTS: The Biggest Boyband In The World
  • Most popular Genres of Movies
  • Should criminal documentaries be banned?
  • Why shouldn’t live concerts be recorded?
  • Movie at home or Movie at Theater
  • Horror or Thriller: What is more Adrenaline Rushing?
  • Movies that will always be remembered
  • Marvelous Actresses around the world. 
  • Does sad music makes you even sadder
  • Songs that are most relatable 
  • Best ever written movie scripts 
  • The impact of Celebrity Endorsement on Society
  • Best Ad campaigns around the world 
  • Why are villains more interesting in the world?
  • Luxury Fashion Brands and their Ambassadors
  • Why Celebrities should have the right to privacy?
  • Paparazzi needs to be banned
  • Mass Media influence on Culture
  • Can Celebrities be our role models?

Examples of Persuasive Essay Titles About Social Issues

Social Issues are the part of most debates and discussion and this blog will be incomplete without discussing persuasive essay topics that are focused on elaborating and evaluating social issues.

  • Why are taxes unfair?
  • Gender Biases in Military Drafting
  • Is capital punishment ethical?
  • Why should we help the homeless people?
  • Why do drunk drivers need to be punished more?
  • Women role in government 
  • Is social media beneficial and harmful?
  • Is United Nations actually functional 
  • What is the most unjust law in the country?
  • Is America Most powerful country in the world 
  • Aftermath of world wars on Europe
  • Reforms in Criminal Justice system
  • Racial Profiling and Its impact on Society
  • Gender inequality at workplace
  • Police surveillance and criminal arrestation
  • Mass media role in invading privacy 
  • Political policies that needs to be changed 
  • Healthcare bias in modern society
  • Systematic Racism in United States
  •  Impact of Vietnam Wars
  • Food Scarcity Around the World
  • What are the biggest social stereotypes?

Ideas of Persuasive Essay Topics About Education

Education sector is one of the most crucial in every country and every day there are researchers and case studies that debate over how to improve and expand the impact of education. This section is going to look over the effective essay that covers the  high school research topics  about students, and the education system.

  • Why is the Education system failing?
  • Effectiveness of Finland Education System
  • Is physical education necessary in colleges?
  • How education causes student suicide?
  • Is having college education required to have a good career
  • Why sex education is important in school?
  • Do students have same rights as adults
  • Why do school need to reform their policy
  • Is practical learning better than classroom learning?
  • Why do tests need to be innovative?
  • How to make graduation ceremony memorable
  • Life skills that school failed to teach students
  • Why school needs to be more safe
  • Bullying at school
  • How does schools encourage bullying
  • Do students have freedom of speech
  • Why should teachers also go through professional tests?
  • Importance of sports in school.

Best Persuasive Essay Topics About History

History elaborates on human civilization and all the events that happened in human history, whether it’s political, artistical, or archaeological prospects of life. The following topics are going to discuss convincing essays to convert into  history research paper topics  later on.

  • The American Revolution
  • Understanding the side effects of cold war
  • Industrial revolution and Child labor
  • Understanding what caused the great depression
  • Why did the Vietnam war break out?
  • Martin luther king Jr.’s I have a dream
  • Biggest Revolutions in The History Of United States
  • Historical Figures Who Shaped The World
  • How are African Americans for their rights?
  • The History of The Roman Empire
  • Everything you need to know about the European settlement 
  • Was the industrial revolution in England a great idea?
  • Leaders who were assassinated
  • How do cults came into being
  • Waco Siege and its impact 

Persuasive Essay Introduction Example

You have selected a topic and gathered your thoughts and ideas before writing. The very first thing you will encounter is the introduction of the essay. An Introduction is what gives direction to your essay and introduces the topic to your audience. It should be compelling and interesting enough to hook the audience till the end.

Introduction can be very challenging because of the pressure of grabbing the attention of the audience along with introducing your topic in the most concise and clear language.If you are not sure how to write the introduction of your essay, we’ve got your back. Feel free to get intouch with our  essay writing services  to get the best crafted essay.

EXAMPLE 

Below we have shared a persuasive essay introduction example to make it easy for you to start your essay.

Essay Title:

 ‘I have a dream.’_ Martin Luther King Jr.

“Let freedom ring from Stone Mountain of Georgia.

Let freedom ring from the Lookout Mountain of Tennessee.

Let freedom ring from every hill and molehill of Mississippi.

From every mountainside, let freedom ring.

Free at last! Free at last! Thank God Almighty, we are free at last!

August 30, 1963, that was the day Martin Luther King Jr. delivered one of the greatest speeches of all time. He was the civil rights activist who fought for liberation of black people and the abolishment of slavery. The speech ‘I have a dream’ has impacted the world of injustice like such a lightning strike that even after 60 years, his words are inspiring and motivating the generations. This essay aims to discover what makes his speech so impactful and out of the world.

Wrapping Up

Persuasive essays are one of the most popular types of essays that require the writer to gather the idea, develop the argument, and back it with strong evidence. The primary aim of this essay is to influence the thoughts, judgements, ideas, and perspective of the reader.

Stronger topics need to have a powerful thesis statement. This blog is an ideal guide for choosing an impressive title for your essay assignment. You can pick any topic from your respective category to write a killer essay.

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Persuasive Essay Topics: 18 Great Essay Ideas Examples

Girl researching about persuasive essay topics.

A persuasive essay is a type of custom writing that attempts to convince the reader that the opinions presented are correct.

Do you think aliens or vampires are real? How can you convince your reader that they exist? Films achieve this with the help of technology, as seen in the once-popular sci-fi film Avatar and the horror fiction Vampire Diaries . These films take the audience to the surreal world of vampires and strange creatures that are believable to the human eye. Conversely, as a writer, you need to use words to craft a persuasive write-up about your topic.

Persuasive essays are very similar to argumentative essays except that a writer presents a one-sided opinion, giving valid reasons and solid facts on why that opinion or argument is correct. With an argumentative essay, the writer discusses the topic by presenting points on both opposing and proposing sides, as is the case with verbal debates. The writer employs logic to reason with and sway the reader into adopting a particular view. Such essay assignments are commonly given to high school and junior college students. They help students master persuasive skills, which can be helpful for students in all disciplines, including sciences and social studies, as well as in business and their social life.

  • 1 Persuasive Essay Structure
  • 2 Our Sample Persuasive Essays
  • 3.1 Prices Starting At:
  • 4 Qualities of Good Persuasive Essay Topics
  • 5 Some Persuasive Essay Topic Ideas for High School
  • 6 College Level Persuasive Essay Topics
  • 7 The Importance of Research
  • 8 Writing Persuasive Essays
  • 9 Getting Help With Your Persuasive Essay Topics or Essay

Persuasive Essay Structure

Like most academic essays, a persuasive essay has an introduction, the main body, and a conclusion . The introduction gives a sneak peek of the essay, the main body presents arguments supported by facts, and the conclusion summarizes the essay’s main ideas.

Our Sample Persuasive Essays

Before you place your order, you may want to sample some of the example persuasive essays written by our experienced persuasive essay writers to gauge the quality of our writing.

Are Delivery Drones the Future of E-Commerce? (Format: APA 7) Should Mobile Phones Be Banned in the Classroom? (Format: MLA)

Tips for Finding Persuasive Essay Topics

Sometimes, essay topics are not given by the professor. Therefore, writing persuasive essays begins with selecting a topic. In such a case, a student is required to choose appropriate persuasive essay topics to write about. To help you do that, here are a few tips:

  • Think of subjects that interest you . Feel free to select a topic you will enjoy writing about, not just one you think will please your professor. Obviously, you should not purposely pick a topic that will bore your audience. Nonetheless, focusing excessively on what you think your teachers would like to read is a mistake. Most professors want to see you write in your own style and argue your own ideas, supported by facts.
  • Select a topic you are passionate about, not one on which you are conflicted. You will likely be unable to present your views and convince your audience if you are conflicted about the side on which you stand. For example, it may not be wise to argue that every state should abolish the death penalty, but you also think that child molesters deserve the death sentence. The audience of your persuasive essay or speech must not detect any sign of internal conflict in your argument. Being passionate about the persuasive essay topics will also make the research and writing tasks enjoyable, and your emotion will also be reflected in your writing. This will help you persuade and change the reader’s mind.
  • Don’t over-obsess with political correctness . You should avoid playing it too safe and shying away from a controversial issue. However, for a school setting, you may want to strike a balance between boldly expressing your views and not offending your audience with overly inappropriate persuasive essay topics.
  • Think about your personal experiences  or those of people you know. Real-life events can be a source of inspiration to help you formulate an interesting topic.
  • Think about what you know . Start with general subjects that you are familiar with, then narrow down to a specific topic. It will be easier for you to write a good persuasive essay if it is a subject in which you have knowledge. This is especially important if you have limited time to write your essay, as you will do the legwork faster.
  • Read . Topics abound in books, newspapers, journals, and the web if only you conduct research. The importance of research in persuasive writing cannot be overstated. Research is important for formulating your title and finding evidence to back up your ideas . A research paper published in a peer-reviewed journal could present the credible evidence you need. This involves reading widely and sometimes talking to experts in your subject of interest. Sample persuasive essays can also inspire you on topics to write on and serve as examples of how to write your essay. A point to remember as you conduct research is that your institution likely has a strict policy against plagiarism. Therefore, avoid presenting someone else’s work as your own.
  • Brainstorming helps  in coming up with an idea or refining the one you already have. Discuss your ideas with friends or other people around you, but this is not a license to copy someone else’s work. The purpose of brainstorming is to help you get ideas. Weave in your own perspective to make your essay unique.
  • Contemporary issues in society often inspire persuasive essay topics, so pay attention to current trends and events happening around you. It helps to develop a list of several persuasive essay topic ideas and then carefully evaluate them further to pick the best one.

Selecting a good topic for your essay is among the most important and often tricky parts for many students. Here are a few characteristics against which you should evaluate your topic before you start writing the essay.

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Qualities of Good Persuasive Essay Topics

The topic should be specific. The essay topic should be broad enough for you to comfortably meet the required length of the essay but not too narrow that you cannot write more than a few short sentences on it.

  • A great topic should have some complexity and depth.
  • A good topic for a persuasive essay is debatable. Pick persuasive essay topics that society is talking about or arguing about.
  • The topic must not be overdone. Most times, a topic that has been tackled repeatedly is not the best choice because it is likely that society has already reached a consensus on the matter and is no longer being debated.
  • Is there adequate literature to support your opinions/ideas? There should be enough literature to provide facts to back your thoughts in order for you to write a good persuasive essay. You don’t want to start the writing process, then have to find a new topic because you realize that there’s no credible literature to back your ideas.

We have compiled a few appropriate topics for your persuasive essay assignment.

Some Persuasive Essay Topic Ideas for High School

  • Should students perpetrating cyber bullying be expelled?

Cyberbullying can undoubtedly have grave consequences for the victims. There has been agitation in some quarters to have cyberbullies in schools face the consequences, such as expulsion.

  • Is college education the key to a successful life?

There are varying views on whether a college education is required in order to have a successful life. In most cases, employers hire candidates who have a college education even when the job does not require it. Conversely, many people lead successful lives, yet they have no college education. For example, American business mogul, Bill Gates, dropped out of Harvard University to found Microsoft. It raises the question- Is college education important?

  • Should the death penalty be abolished?

The death penalty has been abolished in some states, many more still practice it, and others have the death penalty allowing gubernatorial moratoria. Some people say the death sentence is a fitting deterrent to serious crimes but is it a cruel, dehumanizing practice that should be abolished.

  • Should civilians be allowed to carry guns?

The US has recorded 27 school shootings between January and May 2022. The frequency of these mass shootings has elicited gun control debates. Do civilians with guns help stop crimes such as mass shootings, or does the freedom of civilians to carry guns pose more danger?

  • Should the minimum voting age be lowered?

21, 18, 17, or 16 years? Just how old is old enough to vote? Are teenagers old enough for the responsibility of voting, or should voting be reserved for young adults and older citizens?

  • National security prevails over individual privacy rights.

The Federal Bureau of Investigations (FBI) asked Apple to grant them access to an iPhone user’s data in 2016. The user was a key suspect in a mass shooting. The US government argued that gaining access to the suspect’s data was vital for investigations and preventing future shootings. This elicited mixed reactions, with some experts saying that the act would violate individual privacy rights. This raises the question, should violations of individual privacy rights be allowed for the sake of national security?

  • Parental consent should not be required for teenage girls to access contraceptives.

Teenagers have free access to contraceptives, but lawmakers have come up with proposals requiring teenage girls to engage their parents before they can get access.  Should the right of teenagers to freely access contraceptives be upheld?

  • Smartphones are killing communication.

Smartphones have changed the way conversations are carried out, but are they killing the art of communication? Are we missing out on the crucial benefits of voice calls and face-to-face conversations?

  • Should medical marijuana be legalized?

Marijuana helps relieve symptoms of various illnesses.  There have been debates on whether marijuana prescribed by a doctor should be legal. Some US states have legalized medical marijuana. Do you think it should be legalized across the US?

  • Is commercial testing on animals right?

Safety tests for products such as drugs and cosmetics are often tested on animals to ascertain their safety. Animal rights activists and other parties disagree with this practice.

  • Should mercy killing be allowed?

Euthanasia, which refers to the killing of patients with painful, incurable diseases or irreversible comas, is done to relieve suffering. The practice is allowed in some states, but it is frowned upon and illegal in many states.  Is it an ethical practice that should be legalized or not?

  • Should mandatory sexuality and parenting classes be taught in school?

Parents are responsible for teaching their children about sexuality, contraceptive use, and parenting. However, do parents sufficiently teach their kids these subjects? Some schools ask parents to fill in consent forms, allowing schools to administer sexuality classes. Some parents do not consent, yet they do not teach their children about these crucial topics. Should there be a law that mandates the teaching of these topics in school?

College Level Persuasive Essay Topics

  • Should guns be allowed on campuses?

Research shows that guns on campuses only pose a greater danger of violence and do very little to stop shooting rampages. Do you think guns should be allowed on college campuses or not?

  • Should breastfeeding in public be allowed?

Mums are given a hard time now and then for breastfeeding their babies in public . However, some people think that breastfeeding in public, just like bottle feeding a baby in public, should not be controversial.

  • Should the travel ban on Muslim-majority countries be implemented?

There have been mixed reactions on whether the executive order to ban visa issuance to travelers from six Muslim-majority countries should be implemented.

  • Should recycling be required by law?

Recycling helps preserve the environment, but not everyone practices it. Some think that by making it a legal requirement, more people will begin to practice recycling. What’s your position on this?

  • Should workplaces have a more relaxed dress code?

Some employers feel that relaxed dress codes negatively impact productivity and should not be allowed in the workplace.  Others think that it improves creativity and productivity in the workplace.

  • Should bench trials replace the jury system?

There have been arguments that juries are not made up of people with the necessary legal expertise; therefore, they should be abolished and replaced with bench trials where judges are solely responsible for making judgments.

These are just a few tips to help you in persuasive essay writing. You can write persuasive essays on various subjects, including health, food, technology, history, law, religion, and governance. Just follow the guidelines stated above, and you’ll be well on your way to writing a good persuasive essay. Alternatively, you can buy an essay paper  from us and use it to further your research.

girl researching about persuasive essay topics

The Importance of Research

Whichever topic you choose, always remember the importance of literature sources. These sources enrich knowledge, meet the academic community’s expectations, and identify and support arguments. You must always find out whether a topic has been overdone or has enough literature to back it up. You can only find the answers to these questions by immersing yourself in literature to filter out the overdone persuasive essay topics and find facts, examples, statistics, and quotes to provide supporting evidence for your essay. It requires and demonstrates an ability to research, understand, and integrate information from multiple sources. Common, reliable literature sources include journals, scientific magazines, textbooks, and reports that can be examined for relevance to the topic at hand. There are multiple online resources and databases to find a book or a journal article that you can use to search for relevant information sources. Possessing good research skills and selecting good persuasive essay topics is crucial. However, good writing should accompany a good persuasive essay topic and extensive research. As such, a student must learn the skills of effective writing. Learning good writing skills will help you write better essays that will keep your readers interested and persuaded. This can be difficult for some students, especially those for whom English is their second language, but it is not an impossible task.

Writing Persuasive Essays

Once you settle on the topic and choose the position on which you will base your essay, the rest of the work can then begin. You still need to create an outstanding piece of writing. You will need to research your topic further to provide evidence for your ideas and structure your writing according to the persuasive essay structure. As any guide on how to write a persuasive essay will tell you, your essay must be organized in paragraphs with a logical progression from one paragraph to the next.

  • Introduction: There should be an introductory paragraph that includes a strong, authoritative thesis statement. Begin the introduction paragraph with an attention-grabbing fact, question, or contradiction.
  • Main Body: This section should have at least three paragraphs. Each body paragraph should state a single main point and present evidence that supports the point, view, or argument you are making. Examples may also be included in each body paragraph to clarify and support your main points further. 
  • Conclusion: A good persuasive essay must always have a concluding paragraph where you restate your position and include a summary of the essay text. If your introduction included non-rhetorical questions, you should include answers in this section as well. Focus the conclusion on giving your reader a strong message that will linger in their mind. 

Finally, remember that a big part of being effective in persuasion is the ability to appeal to your audience’s emotions. Be creative and take full advantage of persuasion techniques. As with any type of writing, keep your work clear, concise, and error-free.

Getting Help With Your Persuasive Essay Topics or Essay

If you need help with a research paper , persuasive essay writing, persuasive speech writing, proofreading, formatting, or editing, contact reliable professionals such as WritingElites.net for help. Many students rely on online samples or articles about writing persuasive essays to help them understand how to go about it. Others consider seeking the support of professional writing services provided by online companies, which can prove helpful. However, the problem is that not all companies can be relied upon to deliver quality essays on time, so you have to be careful in selecting one. There are many such companies providing essay writing services, but should you choose this path, due diligence is important to ensure that the job will be done right. You don’t want to spend money but not receive its equivalent in quality of service. Check the terms of service and carefully study their privacy policy and any other policy they have, and whether there are multiple ways of contacting them.

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200 Persuasive Essay Topics

Writing any type of essay that relies on emotions or personal opinions to prove a point or convince a reader of an argument is called a persuasive essay.

Persuasive essays are often assigned in high school and college-level courses as a way for students to practice their writing and critical thinking skills. In addition, learning to write persuasive essays effectively improves students’ ability to communicate effectively with others.

Even for students who already have strong writing skills and understand how to communicate their arguments concisely, the process of writing a persuasive essay is not without its challenges. This is especially true when trying to come up with a topic to write about.

Luckily there are many different topics that students can choose from when writing a persuasive essay. The following will not only cover 200 persuasive essay topics you can write about but also provide helpful insight into how to organize and structure your thoughts into a coherent essay that will earn you a passing grade.

How to Write a Persuasive Essay

Unlike other types of similar essays, such as argumentative, a persuasive essay will not require an intense amount of research. Furthermore, instead of an aggressive tone to prove a point, persuasive essays rely on a casual tone that entices the reader to agree with the author’s point of view.

Introduction

To start, you’ll need to develop a topic that can be introduced within the first paragraph of the essay. For example, if you’re writing about how smoking should be illegal, one of your first sentences could be something such as:

“Since the Surgeon General’s warning was declared over forty years ago, it is clear that smoking cigarettes has proven to cause serious health problems.”

You might give some facts about smoking that provide background information to the reader and then follow it up with the main argument and a thesis. An example thesis for a smoking-related persuasive essay could be:

“Cigarette smoking has proven to cause many serious health issues in both the short term and over time. As a result, many countries have banned the sale of cigarettes altogether, which is something that should be considered in the United States.”

Once you have written out your introduction that covers background info, the main argument, and a thesis, you must begin to organize no less than three main points that you can use to back up a stance on the topic.

As with most essays, the persuasive essay will require at least three body paragraphs that support the opinion stated in your thesis. Each body paragraph should contain:

  • One idea that supports the main argument
  • One topic sentence
  • A minimum of two pieces of supporting evidence to back up your claim

It is best to start the first body paragraph with your least crucial supporting factor to your thesis. Your second-most important fact should be covered in the second paragraph, with your most essential supporting point covered in the final body paragraph.

Organizing the body of your persuasive essay this way will entice the reader to keep reading and provide an easy-to-follow set of facts that support your thesis.

The final part of the persuasive essay will require a strong conclusion paragraph in which you summarize your position and present a strong argument for your reader.

This is where you should include all of the facts from each body paragraph in a cohesive summary before providing a closing statement to strengthen your main point further.

Try to avoid bringing up new facts that weren’t previously mentioned in the intro or body paragraphs since it will weaken the overall strength of your argument.

For example, you might write something like, “While smoking cigarettes is clearly bad for one’s health, many argue that they are still a personal choice.” This statement acknowledges the fact that some people argue with your thesis but introduces a whole new set of ideas that the reader may be unfamiliar with.

Helpful Persuasive Essay Writing Tips

Remember that a persuasive essay is supposed to use a calm tone to help the reader understand your point of view. This means that you should focus on appealing to them in one or more of the following ways:

  • logic and reason
  • empathy and sympathy
  • credibility and authority
  • popularity or social proof
  • economics or utility (cost vs. benefits)
  • humor or trust (be likable)

Don’t forget that the substance of your persuasive essay isn’t necessarily what will persuade the reader. Often, it’s your delivery of arguments that will have the most impact on them. Be sure to use appealing “hook” statements that capture the reader’s attention and keep them engaged throughout the essay, such as:

  • Anecdotal examples
  • Sudden insights
  • Controversial dramatic statements
  • Literary or celebrity quotes
  • Pointed questions
  • Concrete, colorful descriptions
  • Personal asides

The final tip is to use recent and relevant examples rather than outdated or generic information.

For example, saying something such as, “I feel the best way to stop violence is by having stricter gun laws” may not be as effective as “Parents of children who died in the Sandy Hook tragedy and many others believe that America’s gun laws should be reformed.”

The newer statement only focuses on a tiny part of a larger argument, but it is more likely to be relevant and compelling to readers.

200 Persuasive Essay Topic Ideas

Now that you are prepared to write your persuasive essay, check out the list of 200 persuasive essay topics you can use for your next writing assignment. Each topic is written in a neutral tone so that you can easily adapt them to fit any audience or situation.

  • Should college athletes get paid?
  • Are participation trophies bad for children?
  • Are helicopter parents the best type of parents?
  • Is it better to have many short-term goals or one long-term goal in life?
  • What makes a good parent?
  • Can stricter gun laws save lives?
  • How can we improve our public schools?
  • What makes a good role model?
  • Do girls and boys learn differently at school?
  • Are cell phones dangerous for teens?
  • Is college worth the cost?
  • Should we teach children about religion in school?
  • Would legalizing marijuana make it safer to use?
  • Why are millennials earning less money than previous generations did at the same age?
  • What is the future of online shopping in America?
  • Is social media bad for society?
  • Does social media give us an unrealistic view of other people’s lives?
  • How does social media affect relationships between teenagers/adults/friends/family members?
  • Should pornography be censored on the internet?
  • Are vaccinations dangerous for our health?
  • Are the benefits of multivitamins worth the cost?
  • Do violent video games make children meaner?
  • What makes a good personal statement on a college application?
  • Will climate change impact our world in the next 50 years?
  • Can we teach robots to feel emotions like humans do?
  • In what ways are men and women treated unequally in America today?
  • Are men and women treated equally?
  • Does legalizing gay marriage hurt or help society as a whole?
  • Is it sexist when women worry more about their makeup than men worry about their appearances in general public settings (job interviews, weddings)?
  • Is this sexism still prevalent in the workplace?
  • Do male athletes have an unfair advantage over their female counterparts?
  • Why are so many teenage girls developing eating disorders?
  • What can be done to reduce eating disorders in women?
  • Are the Olympics still important today?
  • Do children’s sports leagues take advantage of parents’ enthusiasm for their kids’ games and exploit them financially with high registration fees and team apparel costs?
  • How does poverty affect students in America’s school system today?
  • Are students more stressed now than they were 50 years ago?
  • What can be done to help students deal with stress?
  • Are bullying and peer pressure problems at school?
  • How does social media affect bullying?
  • Are the benefits of online classes worth the lack of face-to-face student interactions?
  • Is it wrong for companies to ask about applicants’ previous salaries?
  • Do unions still serve a purpose today?
  • Should states raise their minimum wages?
  • Do Americans feel disenfranchised?
  • Is there racial inequality in the justice system?
  • Should illegal immigrants be allowed to remain in the USA?
  • Can we create new types of jobs to replace positions lost due to automation?
  • Should online voting be allowed?
  • Is it possible for high school students to pursue a career in programming at an early age?
  • Does bullying affect children’s education?
  • Should children be taught how harmful bullying is in school curriculums?
  • Should cyberbullies be arrested for harassment?
  • Are single-sex classrooms beneficial for students’ education experiences?
  • Do mandatory dress codes increase students’ grades?
  • Is it sexist when people assume that successful women must have gotten help from someone more powerful than they are (such as a boss or colleague)?
  • Should illegal immigrants be allowed to become U.S. citizens?
  • In what ways is the social life of teenagers in America today different from that of previous generations?
  • Is it normal for teenagers to go on five or more dates a week at high school?
  • Are teens too focused on “following their passions” rather than getting good grades?
  • Is society obsessed with toxic ideas of masculinity?
  • Is feminism a barrier to equality?
  • What impact do celebrities have on adolescents’ thoughts and behavior?
  • Do children spend too much time using technology?
  • Should schools be required to provide free meals?
  • Does the presence of police officers increase or decrease crime rates in schools?
  • How much can individual people do to slow climate change?
  • What is the leading cause of climate change?
  • Is it possible for humans to live on other planets?
  • Is the survival of nature more important than the survival of humans?
  • Are scientific tests using animals justified?
  • Should scientists be allowed to experiment with stem cells?
  • Should smoking be banned worldwide?
  • Are children raised with religion are more likely to be kind and empathetic than those who are not?
  • Is it good for people of different faiths (or no faith) to co-exist?
  • What makes humans unique?
  • Can we use technology to eliminate disease and live longer lives?
  • How necessary is physical fitness in the 21st century?
  • Should tax money be used to pay for sports facilities or equipment in public schools?
  • Is it worth paying taxes so that people can enjoy the benefits of living in modern society?
  • Is penmanship important?
  • Should kids be able to vote?
  • Should the drinking age be lowered?
  • Should the draft exist?
  • Is racism still an issue in the workplace today?
  • Are there specific jobs that people should not be allowed to do because of their race or gender?
  • What is the most effective form of birth control?
  • Should contraception be free?
  • Should sex education be mandatory in schools?
  • Is sex education effective at reducing the risk of pregnancy?
  • Is abstinence a realistic option for teens?
  • Should abortion be legal?
  • Are there any benefits of religion that outweigh the negatives?
  • How has technology influenced the way we think and learn?
  • Does watching T.V. or playing video games take away time spent socializing and
  • Should vegan diets be mandatory for school children?
  • What makes a skill worth learning?
  • Can we be both fit and fat at the same time?
  • Does it matter what sports you play as a child?
  • Should cheating be more harshly punished in school?
  • Is it wrong to cheat on your spouse if you are unhappy with the marriage but do not want a divorce?
  • Is it better to go to college?
  • Is it better for high school students to college courses while they are still in high school?
  • Is college a waste of time and money for some students?
  • Are children better off with a stay-at-home parent than with a working one?
  • Can people from different generations understand each other?
  • Does being “tied down” by marriage, kids, and jobs prevent people from living fulfilling lives?
  • Should borders be done away with?
  • Is there any justification for war?
  • Should the government spy on its citizens?
  • Are genetically modified foods safe to eat?
  • Are humans naturally aggressive or peaceful?
  • If crime was legal, would people behave differently?
  • Is happiness more important than success?
  • Should the government impose trash limits?
  • Do aliens exist?
  • Are we living in a Matrix-type world?
  • Is artificial intelligence safe?
  • Should people be given a monthly stipend from the government?
  • Does the American Dream still exist today?
  • Is it good to be well-known and successful?
  • Is materialism better than altruism?
  • What is the meaning of life?
  • Should commercial fishing be banned?
  • Do people without disabilities have a responsibility to help those with them?
  • Is it OK to do nothing all day?
  • Is suicide ever the right answer?
  • Is eating meat murder?
  • Should people have pets if they live in an apartment building?
  • How many hours should children spend studying for school each night?
  • Would the world be a better place without religion?
  • What makes a person beautiful?
  • Should all people have the same rights regardless of race, religion, gender, etc.?
  • Is erasing history ever a good idea?
  • Does it matter how you look as long as you’re a good person?
  • Should the U.S. have an official language?
  • Is it better to travel or stay at home?
  • Are there any benefits of being poor that outweigh the negatives?
  • Are rich people more prepared for the world than poor people?
  • Is money more important than happiness?
  • Do you need to earn a lot of money to be successful?
  • Does money affect happiness?
  • Should animals be kept as pets?
  • Is the agriculture industry responsible for global warming?
  • Do humans cause global warming?
  • Should we do more to protect endangered species?
  • Should athletes be paid so much money?
  • Are all drugs harmful?
  • Should trans people be able to use the same bathroom?
  • Is it ever OK to discriminate against someone?
  • How should people treat other people online?
  • What makes someone a good person?
  • Does money buy happiness?
  • Should kids be allowed to play violent games and watch violent movies at home?
  • Is the media responsible for influencing people’s opinions on certain things?
  • Is capitalism healthy for society?
  • Is socialism a good form of government?
  • What role does luck play in life?
  • Should students be allowed to express their political views when in school?
  • Can one person change the world?
  • Is it OK to lie sometimes?
  • Should faith supersede government mandates?
  • Does religion still have a place in society?
  • Should atheists be allowed to get married in churches?
  • How long should people spend commuting?
  • Are self-driving cars a good idea?
  • Should e-cigarettes be banned?
  • Should all drugs be legalized?
  • Is the death penalty a crime deterrent?
  • What weapons should people be allowed to own?
  • Is the right to bear arms essential?
  • Should cellphones be banned in schools?
  • Does standing for the national anthem at a sports game matter?
  • Is political correctness necessary?
  • Does globalism make countries weaker?
  • Is the cost of health insurance too high?
  • Should airlines relax their policies of what can be brought onto a plane?
  • Are unions good for the economy?
  • Do small businesses make or break an economy?
  • Would society be better if there was no poverty?
  • How should people treat homeless people?
  • What makes someone a “bad” person?
  • Is it wrong to lie under oath in court?
  • Should teenagers be given more freedom as they enter adulthood?
  • Does everyone get their fair share of opportunities and successes?
  • Is it OK to break the law if you’re doing it to help others?
  • Should women’s hygiene products be free?
  • Do women bear unequal responsibilities for unwanted pregnancies?
  • Should there be more regulations for food manufacturing?
  • What makes a person interesting?
  • Is it ever OK to steal from a business?
  • Does being famous affect how people treat you?
  • Should children have more of an active role in politics?
  • Are politicians good for society?
  • Does the media accurately portray reality?
  • Is democracy better than other forms of government?
  • What makes someone a good leader?
  • Is it possible to solve political problems without violence?
  • Are celebrities more important than politicians?
  • Should all religions be free to practice in public spaces?

Persuade Your Way to a Better Grade!

With this list of 200 persuasive essay topics, you’ll be on your way to creating a piece of writing that not only motivates your reader to your opinion but also gets you the grade you need to pass your course and earn your degree.

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How to Write a Persuasive Essay: Tips and Tricks

Allison Bressmer

Allison Bressmer

How to write a persuasive essay

Most composition classes you’ll take will teach the art of persuasive writing. That’s a good thing.

Knowing where you stand on issues and knowing how to argue for or against something is a skill that will serve you well both inside and outside of the classroom.

Persuasion is the art of using logic to prompt audiences to change their mind or take action , and is generally seen as accomplishing that goal by appealing to emotions and feelings.

A persuasive essay is one that attempts to get a reader to agree with your perspective.

What is a persuasive essay?

Ready for some tips on how to produce a well-written, well-rounded, well-structured persuasive essay? Just say yes. I don’t want to have to write another essay to convince you!

How Do I Write a Persuasive Essay?

What are some good topics for a persuasive essay, how do i identify an audience for my persuasive essay, how do you create an effective persuasive essay, how should i edit my persuasive essay.

Your persuasive essay needs to have the three components required of any essay: the introduction , body , and conclusion .

That is essay structure. However, there is flexibility in that structure.

There is no rule (unless the assignment has specific rules) for how many paragraphs any of those sections need.

Although the components should be proportional; the body paragraphs will comprise most of your persuasive essay.

What should every essay include?

How Do I Start a Persuasive Essay?

As with any essay introduction, this paragraph is where you grab your audience’s attention, provide context for the topic of discussion, and present your thesis statement.

TIP 1: Some writers find it easier to write their introductions last. As long as you have your working thesis, this is a perfectly acceptable approach. From that thesis, you can plan your body paragraphs and then go back and write your introduction.

TIP 2: Avoid “announcing” your thesis. Don’t include statements like this:

  • “In my essay I will show why extinct animals should (not) be regenerated.”
  • “The purpose of my essay is to argue that extinct animals should (not) be regenerated.”

Announcements take away from the originality, authority, and sophistication of your writing.

Instead, write a convincing thesis statement that answers the question "so what?" Why is the topic important, what do you think about it, and why do you think that? Be specific.

How Many Paragraphs Should a Persuasive Essay Have?

This body of your persuasive essay is the section in which you develop the arguments that support your thesis. Consider these questions as you plan this section of your essay:

  • What arguments support your thesis?
  • What is the best order for your arguments?
  • What evidence do you have?
  • Will you address the opposing argument to your own?
  • How can you conclude convincingly?

The body of a persuasive essay

TIP: Brainstorm and do your research before you decide which arguments you’ll focus on in your discussion. Make a list of possibilities and go with the ones that are strongest, that you can discuss with the most confidence, and that help you balance your rhetorical triangle .

What Should I Put in the Conclusion of a Persuasive Essay?

The conclusion is your “mic-drop” moment. Think about how you can leave your audience with a strong final comment.

And while a conclusion often re-emphasizes the main points of a discussion, it shouldn’t simply repeat them.

TIP 1: Be careful not to introduce a new argument in the conclusion—there’s no time to develop it now that you’ve reached the end of your discussion!

TIP 2 : As with your thesis, avoid announcing your conclusion. Don’t start your conclusion with “in conclusion” or “to conclude” or “to end my essay” type statements. Your audience should be able to see that you are bringing the discussion to a close without those overused, less sophisticated signals.

The conclusion of a persuasive essay

If your instructor has assigned you a topic, then you’ve already got your issue; you’ll just have to determine where you stand on the issue. Where you stand on your topic is your position on that topic.

Your position will ultimately become the thesis of your persuasive essay: the statement the rest of the essay argues for and supports, intending to convince your audience to consider your point of view.

If you have to choose your own topic, use these guidelines to help you make your selection:

  • Choose an issue you truly care about
  • Choose an issue that is actually debatable

Simple “tastes” (likes and dislikes) can’t really be argued. No matter how many ways someone tries to convince me that milk chocolate rules, I just won’t agree.

It’s dark chocolate or nothing as far as my tastes are concerned.

Similarly, you can’t convince a person to “like” one film more than another in an essay.

You could argue that one movie has superior qualities than another: cinematography, acting, directing, etc. but you can’t convince a person that the film really appeals to them.

Debatable and non-debatable concepts

Once you’ve selected your issue, determine your position just as you would for an assigned topic. That position will ultimately become your thesis.

Until you’ve finalized your work, consider your thesis a “working thesis.”

This means that your statement represents your position, but you might change its phrasing or structure for that final version.

When you’re writing an essay for a class, it can seem strange to identify an audience—isn’t the audience the instructor?

Your instructor will read and evaluate your essay, and may be part of your greater audience, but you shouldn’t just write for your teacher.

Think about who your intended audience is.

For an argument essay, think of your audience as the people who disagree with you—the people who need convincing.

That population could be quite broad, for example, if you’re arguing a political issue, or narrow, if you’re trying to convince your parents to extend your curfew.

Once you’ve got a sense of your audience, it’s time to consult with Aristotle. Aristotle’s teaching on persuasion has shaped communication since about 330 BC. Apparently, it works.

Ethos, pathos and logos

Aristotle taught that in order to convince an audience of something, the communicator needs to balance the three elements of the rhetorical triangle to achieve the best results.

Those three elements are ethos , logos , and pathos .

Ethos relates to credibility and trustworthiness. How can you, as the writer, demonstrate your credibility as a source of information to your audience?

How will you show them you are worthy of their trust?

How to make your essay credible

  • You show you’ve done your research: you understand the issue, both sides
  • You show respect for the opposing side: if you disrespect your audience, they won’t respect you or your ideas

Logos relates to logic. How will you convince your audience that your arguments and ideas are reasonable?

How to use logic in essays

You provide facts or other supporting evidence to support your claims.

That evidence may take the form of studies or expert input or reasonable examples or a combination of all of those things, depending on the specific requirements of your assignment.

Remember: if you use someone else’s ideas or words in your essay, you need to give them credit.

ProWritingAid's Plagiarism Checker checks your work against over a billion web-pages, published works, and academic papers so you can be sure of its originality.

Find out more about ProWritingAid’s Plagiarism checks.

Pathos relates to emotion. Audiences are people and people are emotional beings. We respond to emotional prompts. How will you engage your audience with your arguments on an emotional level?

How to use emotion in essays

  • You make strategic word choices : words have denotations (dictionary meanings) and also connotations, or emotional values. Use words whose connotations will help prompt the feelings you want your audience to experience.
  • You use emotionally engaging examples to support your claims or make a point, prompting your audience to be moved by your discussion.

Be mindful as you lean into elements of the triangle. Too much pathos and your audience might end up feeling manipulated, roll their eyes and move on.

An “all logos” approach will leave your essay dry and without a sense of voice; it will probably bore your audience rather than make them care.

Once you’ve got your essay planned, start writing! Don’t worry about perfection, just get your ideas out of your head and off your list and into a rough essay format.

After you’ve written your draft, evaluate your work. What works and what doesn’t? For help with evaluating and revising your work, check out this ProWritingAid post on manuscript revision .

After you’ve evaluated your draft, revise it. Repeat that process as many times as you need to make your work the best it can be.

When you’re satisfied with the content and structure of the essay, take it through the editing process .

Grammatical or sentence-level errors can distract your audience or even detract from the ethos—the authority—of your work.

You don’t have to edit alone! ProWritingAid’s Realtime Report will find errors and make suggestions for improvements.

You can even use it on emails to your professors:

ProWritingAid's Realtime Report

Try ProWritingAid with a free account.

How Can I Improve My Persuasion Skills?

You can develop your powers of persuasion every day just by observing what’s around you.

  • How is that advertisement working to convince you to buy a product?
  • How is a political candidate arguing for you to vote for them?
  • How do you “argue” with friends about what to do over the weekend, or convince your boss to give you a raise?
  • How are your parents working to convince you to follow a certain academic or career path?

As you observe these arguments in action, evaluate them. Why are they effective or why do they fail?

How could an argument be strengthened with more (or less) emphasis on ethos, logos, and pathos?

Every argument is an opportunity to learn! Observe them, evaluate them, and use them to perfect your own powers of persuasion.

persuasive essay research paper topic

Be confident about grammar

Check every email, essay, or story for grammar mistakes. Fix them before you press send.

Allison Bressmer is a professor of freshman composition and critical reading at a community college and a freelance writer. If she isn’t writing or teaching, you’ll likely find her reading a book or listening to a podcast while happily sipping a semi-sweet iced tea or happy-houring with friends. She lives in New York with her family. Connect at linkedin.com/in/allisonbressmer.

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Inflation Targets: Practice Ahead of Theory

Inflation targets were introduced well ahead of the development of the theory of inflation targeting. The practice was successful because it comprised a new set of procedures and institutions for setting monetary policy in a transparent and accountable fashion – “constrained discretion”; the later theory was less useful because it purported to be a theory of the determination of the price level. But inflation targeting does not constitute a new theory of the monetary transmission mechanism. The belief that it does led to the replacement of Milton Friedman’s dictum that “inflation is always and everywhere a monetary phenomenon” by the new dictum that “inflation is always and everywhere a transitory phenomenon”. This had unfortunate consequences during the recent inflation. The paper concludes with a discussion of the challenges facing inflation targets in the future.

The views expressed herein are those of the author and do not necessarily reflect the views of the National Bureau of Economic Research.

MARC RIS BibTeΧ

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Why Are Companies That Lose Money Still So Successful?

  • Vijay Govindarajan,
  • Shivaram Rajgopal,
  • Anup Srivastava,
  • Aneel Iqbal,
  • Elnaz Basirian

persuasive essay research paper topic

New research on how to identify investments that produce delayed but real profits — not just those that produce short-term accounting profits.

In a well-functioning capital market, profits should be the sole criterion for firm survival; that is, firms reporting losses should disappear. Of late, however, loss-making firms are highly sought after by investors — often more than some profitable firms. Unicorns, or startups with valuations exceeding a billion dollars, are examples of such loss-making firms. What has changed over time? When and why did losses lose their meaning? The authors’ series of new research papers provide some answers, guiding managers to make the right investments: those that produce delayed but real profits — not just those that produce short-term accounting profits but decimate shareholder wealth in long run.

In 1979, psychologists Daniel Kahneman and Amos Tversky famously posited that losses loom larger than gains in human decision-making. For example, a dollar of loss affects our behavior more than a dollar of profits . Likewise, when a firm announces losses, its stock price declines more dramatically than it increases for the same dollar amount of profits. Investors abandon and lenders tend to stop financing loss-making firms , which then start restructuring their business lines and laying off employees. Some firms go even further, conducting M&A transactions without substance and “managing earnings” to report profits instead of a loss.

  • Vijay Govindarajan is the Coxe Distinguished Professor at Dartmouth College’s Tuck School of Business, an executive fellow at Harvard Business School, and faculty partner at the Silicon Valley incubator Mach 49. He is a New York Times and Wall Street Journal bestselling author. His latest book is Fusion Strategy: How Real-Time Data and AI Will Power the Industrial Future . His Harvard Business Review articles “ Engineering Reverse Innovations ” and “ Stop the Innovation Wars ” won McKinsey Awards for best article published in HBR. His HBR articles “ How GE Is Disrupting Itself ” and “ The CEO’s Role in Business Model Reinvention ” are HBR all-time top-50 bestsellers. Follow him on LinkedIn . vgovindarajan
  • Shivaram Rajgopal is the Roy Bernard Kester and T.W. Byrnes Professor of Accounting and Auditing and Vice Dean of Research at Columbia Business School. His research examines financial reporting and executive compensation issues and he is widely published in both accounting and finance.
  • Anup Srivastava holds Canada Research Chair in Accounting, Decision Making, and Capital Markets and is a full professor at Haskayne School of Business, University of Calgary. In a series of HBR articles, he examines the management implications of digital disruption. He specializes in the valuation and financial reporting challenges of digital companies. Follow Anup on  LinkedIn .
  • Aneel Iqbal is an assistant professor at Thunderbird School of Global Management, Arizona State University. He examines the accounting measurement and financial disclosures for new-economy firms and incorporates his wide-ranging industry experience into his research and teaching. He is a seasoned accounting and finance professional with diverse experience in auditing, financial analysis, business advisory, performance management, and executive training. Follow Aneel on LinkedIn .
  • Elnaz Basirian is a PhD student at the Haskayne School of Business. She examines the influence and role of intangibles in accounting and finance, aimed at improving valuation and market efficiency. She brings a decade of work experience in international financial markets. Follow Elnaz on LinkedIn .

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Fall 2024 Semester

Undergraduate courses.

Composition courses that offer many sections (ENGL 101, 201, 277 and 379) are not listed on this schedule unless they are tailored to specific thematic content or particularly appropriate for specific programs and majors.

  • 100-200 level

ENGL 151.S01: Introduction to English Studies

Tuesday and Thursday, 11 a.m.-12:15 p.m.

Sharon Smith

ENGL 151 serves as an introduction to both the English major and the discipline of English studies. In this class, you will develop the thinking, reading, writing and research practices that define both the major and the discipline. Much of the semester will be devoted to honing your literary analysis skills, and we will study and discuss texts from several different genres—poetry, short fiction, the novel, drama and film—as well as some literary criticism. As we do so, we will explore the language of the discipline, and you will learn a variety of key literary terms and concepts. In addition, you will develop your skills as both a writer and researcher within the discipline of English.

ENGL 201.ST1 Composition II: The Mind/Body Connection

In this section of English 201, students will use research and writing to learn more about problems that are important to them and articulate ways to address those problems. The course will focus specifically on issues related to the mind, the body and the relationship between them. The topics we will discuss during the course will include the correlation between social media and body image; the efficacy of sex education programs; the degree to which beliefs about race and gender influence school dress codes; and the unique mental and physical challenges faced by college students today. In this course, you will be learning about different approaches to argumentation, analyzing the arguments of others and constructing your own arguments. At the same time, you will be honing your skills as a researcher and developing your abilities as a persuasive and effective writer.

ENGL 201.S10 Composition II: Environmental Writing   

Monday/Wednesday/Friday 1-1:50 p.m.

Gwen Horsley

English 201 will help students develop the ability to think critically and analytically and to write effectively for other university courses and careers. This course will provide opportunities to develop analytical skills that will help students become critical readers and effective writers. Specifically, in this class, students will:

  • Focus on the relationships between world environments, land, animals and humankind.
  • Read various essays by environmental, conservational and regional authors.
  • Produce student writings. 

Students will improve their writing skills by reading essays and applying techniques they witness in others’ work and those learned in class. This class is also a course in logical and creative thought. Students will write about humankind’s place in the world and our influence on the land and animals, places that hold special meaning to them or have influenced their lives and stories of their own families and their places and passions in the world. Students will practice writing in an informed and persuasive manner, in language that engages and enlivens readers by using vivid verbs and avoiding unnecessary passives, nominalizations and expletive constructions.

Students will prepare writing assignments based on readings and discussions of essays included in "Literature and the Environment " and other sources. They may use "The St. Martin’s Handbook," as well as other sources, to review grammar, punctuation, mechanics and usage as needed.

ENGL 201.13 Composition II: Writing the Environment

Tuesday and Thursday 9:30-10:45 a.m.

Paul Baggett

For generations, environmentalists have relied on the power of prose to change the minds and habits of their contemporaries. In the wake of fires, floods, storms and droughts, environmental writing has gained a new sense of urgency, with authors joining activists in their efforts to educate the public about the grim realities of climate change. But do they make a difference? Have reports of present and future disasters so saturated our airwaves that we no longer hear them? How do writers make us care about the planet amidst all the noise? In this course, students will examine the various rhetorical strategies employed by some of today’s leading environmental writers and filmmakers. And while analyzing their different arguments, students also will strengthen their own strategies of argumentation as they research and develop essays that explore a range of environmental concerns.

ENGL 201 Composition II: Food Writing

S17 Tuesday and Thursday 12:30-1:45 p.m.

S18 Tuesday and Thursday 2-3:15 p.m.

Jodi Andrews

In this composition class, students will critically analyze essays about food, food systems and environments, food cultures, the intersections of personal choice, market forces and policy and the values underneath these forces. Students will learn to better read like writers, noting authors’ purpose, audience organizational moves, sentence-level punctuation and diction. We will read a variety of essays including research-intensive arguments and personal narratives which intersect with one of our most primal needs as humans: food consumption. Students will rhetorically analyze texts, conduct advanced research, reflect on the writing process and write essays utilizing intentional rhetorical strategies. Through doing this work, students will practice the writing moves valued in every discipline: argument, evidence, concision, engaging prose and the essential research skills for the 21st century.

ENGL 221.S01 British Literature I

Michael S. Nagy

English 221 is a survey of early British literature from its inception in the Old English period with works such as "Beowulf" and the “Battle of Maldon,” through the Middle Ages and the incomparable writings of Geoffrey Chaucer and the Gawain - poet, to the Renaissance and beyond. Students will explore the historical and cultural contexts in which all assigned reading materials were written, and they will bring that information to bear on class discussion. Likely themes that this class will cover include heroism, humor, honor, religion, heresy and moral relativity. Students will write one research paper in this class and sit for two formal exams: a midterm covering everything up to that point in the semester, and a comprehensive final. Probable texts include the following:

  • The Norton Anthology of English Literature: The Middle Ages. Ed. Alfred David, M. H. Abrams, and Stephen Greenblatt. 9th ed. New York: W. W. Norton & Company, 2012.
  • The Norton Anthology of English Literature: The Sixteenth Century and Early Seventeenth Century. Ed. George M. Logan, Stephen Greenblatt, Barbara K Lewalski, and M. H. Abrams. 9th ed. New York: W. W. Norton & Company, 2012.
  • The Norton Anthology of English Literature: The Restoration and the Eighteenth Century. Ed. George M. Logan, Stephen Greenblatt, Barbara K Lewalski, and M. H. Abrams. 9th ed. New York: W. W. Norton & Company, 2012.
  • Gibaldi, Joseph. The MLA Handbook for Writers of Research Papers. 6th ed. New York: The Modern Language Association of America, 2003.
  • Any Standard College Dictionary.

ENGL 240.S01 Juvenile Literature Elementary-5th Grade

Monday, Wednesday and Friday noon-12:50 p.m.

April Myrick

A survey of the history of literature written for children and adolescents, and a consideration of the various types of juvenile literature. Text selection will focus on the themes of imagination and breaking boundaries.

ENGL 240.ST1 Juvenile Literature Elementary-5th Grade

Randi Anderson

In English 240 students will develop the skills to interpret and evaluate various genres of literature for juvenile readers. This particular section will focus on various works of literature at approximately the K-5 grade level. We will read a large range of works that fall into this category, as well as information on the history, development and genre of juvenile literature.

Readings for this course include classical works such as "Hatchet," "Little Women", "The Lion, the Witch and the Wardrobe" and "Brown Girl Dreaming," as well as newer works like "Storm in the Barn," "Anne Frank’s Diary: A Graphic Adaptation," "Lumberjanes," and a variety of picture books. These readings will be paired with chapters from "Reading Children’s Literature: A Critical Introduction " to help develop understanding of various genres, themes and concepts that are both related to juvenile literature and also present in our readings.

In addition to exposing students to various genres of writing (poetry, historical fiction, non-fiction, fantasy, picture books, graphic novels, etc.) this course will also allow students to engage in a discussion of larger themes present in these works such as censorship, race and gender. Students’ understanding of these works and concepts will be developed through readings, research, discussion posts, exams and writing assignments designed to get students to practice analyzing poetry, picture books, informational books and transitional/easy readers.

ENGL 241.S01: American Literature I

Tuesday and Thursday 12:30-1:45 p.m.

This course provides a broad, historical survey of American literature from the early colonial period to the Civil War. Ranging across historical periods and literary genres—including early accounts of contact and discovery, narratives of captivity and slavery, poetry of revolution, essays on gender equality and stories of industrial exploitation—this class examines how subjects such as colonialism, nationhood, religion, slavery, westward expansion, race, gender and democracy continue to influence how Americans see themselves and their society.

Required Texts

  • The Norton Anthology of American Literature: Package 1, Volumes A and B Beginnings to 1865, Ninth Edition. (ISBN 978-0-393-26454-8)

ENGL 283.S01 Introduction to Creative Writing

Steven Wingate

Students will explore the various forms of creative writing (fiction, nonfiction and poetry) not one at a time in a survey format—as if there were decisive walls of separation between then—but as intensely related genres that share much of their creative DNA. Through close reading and work on personal texts, students will address the decisions that writers in any genre must face on voice, rhetorical position, relationship to audience, etc. Students will produce and revise portfolios of original creative work developed from prompts and research. This course fulfills the same SGR #2 requirements ENGL 201; note that the course will involve a research project. Successful completion of ENGL 101 (including by test or dual credit) is a prerequisite.

ENGL 283.S02 Introduction to Creative Writing

Jodilyn Andrews

This course introduces students to the craft of writing, with readings and practice in at least two genres (including fiction, poetry and drama).

ENGL 283.ST1 Introduction to Creative Writing

Amber Jensen, M.A., M.F.A.

This course explores creative writing as a way of encountering the world, research as a component of the creative writing process, elements of craft and their rhetorical effect and drafting, workshop and revision as integral parts of writing polished literary creative work. Student writers will engage in the research practices that inform the writing of literature and in the composing strategies and writing process writers use to create literary texts. Through their reading and writing of fiction, poetry and creative nonfiction, students will learn about craft elements, find examples of those craft elements in published works and apply these elements in their own creative work, developed through weekly writing activities, small group and large group workshop and conferences with the instructor. Work will be submitted, along with a learning reflection and revision plan in each genre and will then be revised and submitted as a final portfolio at the end of the semester to demonstrate continued growth in the creation of polished literary writing.

  • 300-400 level

ENGL 424.S01 Language Arts Methods grades 7-12  

Tuesday 6-8:50 p.m.

Danielle Harms

Techniques, materials and resources for teaching English language and literature to middle and secondary school students. Required of students in the English education option.

AIS/ENGL 447.S01: American Indian Literature of the Present 

Thursdays 3-6 p.m.

This course introduces students to contemporary works by authors from various Indigenous nations. Students examine these works to enhance their historical understanding of Indigenous peoples, discover the variety of literary forms used by those who identify as Indigenous writers, and consider the cultural and political significance of these varieties of expression. Topics and questions to be explored include:

  • Genre: What makes Indigenous literature indigenous?
  • Political and Cultural Sovereignty: Why have an emphasis on tribal specificity and calls for “literary separatism” emerged in recent decades, and what are some of the critical conversations surrounding such particularized perspectives?
  • Gender and Sexuality: What are the intersecting concerns of Indigenous Studies and Women, Gender and Sexuality Studies, and how might these research fields inform one another?
  • Trans-Indigeneity: What might we learn by comparing works across different Indigenous traditions, and what challenges do such comparisons present?
  • Aesthetics: How do Indigenous writers understand the dynamics between tradition and creativity?
  • Visual Forms: What questions or concerns do visual representations (television and film) by or about Indigenous peoples present?

Possible Texts

  • Akiwenzie-Damm, Kateri and Josie Douglas (eds), Skins: Contemporary Indigenous Writing. IAD Press, 2000. (978-1864650327)
  • Erdrich, Louise, The Sentence. Harper, 2021 (978-0062671127)
  • Harjo, Joy, Poet Warrior: A Memoir. Norton, 2021 (978-0393248524)
  • Harjo, Sterlin and Taika Waititi, Reservation Dogs (selected episodes)
  • Talty, Morgan. Night of the Living Rez, 2022, Tin House (978-1953534187)
  • Wall Kimmerer, Robin. Braiding Sweet Grass, Milkweed Editions (978-1571313560)
  • Wilson, Diane. The Seed Keeper: A Novel. Milkweed Editions (978-1571311375)
  • Critical essays by Alexie, Allen, Cohen, Cox, King, Kroeber, Ortiz, Piatote, Ross and Sexton, Smith, Taylor, Teuton, Treuer, Vizenor, and Womack.

ENGL 472.S01: Film Criticism

Tuesdays 2-4:50 p.m.

Jason McEntee

Do you have an appreciation for, and enjoy watching, movies? Do you want to study movies in a genre-oriented format (such as those we typically call the Western, the screwball comedy, the science fiction or the crime/gangster, to name a few)? Do you want to explore the different critical approaches for talking and writing about movies (such as auteur, feminist, genre or reception)?

In this class, you will examine movies through viewing and defining different genres while, at the same time, studying and utilizing different styles of film criticism. You will share your discoveries in both class discussions and short writings. The final project will be a formal written piece of film criticism based on our work throughout the semester. The course satisfies requirements and electives for all English majors and minors, including both the Film Studies and Professional Writing minors. (Note: Viewing of movies outside of class required and may require rental and/or streaming service fees.)

ENGL 476.ST1: Fiction

In this workshop-based creative writing course, students will develop original fiction based on strong attention to the fundamentals of literary storytelling: full-bodied characters, robust story lines, palpable environments and unique voices. We will pay particular attention to process awareness, to the integrity of the sentence, and to authors' commitments to their characters and the places in which their stories unfold. Some workshop experience is helpful, as student peer critique will be an important element of the class.

ENGL 479.01 Capstone: The Gothic

Wednesday 3-5:50 p.m.

With the publication of Horace Walpole’s "The Castle of Otranto " in 1764, the Gothic officially came into being. Dark tales of physical violence and psychological terror, the Gothic incorporates elements such as distressed heroes and heroines pursued by tyrannical villains; gloomy estates with dark corridors, secret passageways and mysterious chambers; haunting dreams, troubling prophecies and disturbing premonitions; abduction, imprisonment and murder; and a varied assortment of corpses, apparitions and “monsters.” In this course, we will trace the development of Gothic literature—and some film—from the eighteenth-century to the present time. As we do so, we will consider how the Gothic engages philosophical beliefs about the beautiful and sublime; shapes psychological understandings of human beings’ encounters with horror, terror, the fantastic and the uncanny; and intervenes in the social and historical contexts in which it was written. We’ll consider, for example, how the Gothic undermines ideals related to domesticity and marriage through representations of domestic abuse, toxicity and gaslighting. In addition, we’ll discuss Gothic texts that center the injustices of slavery and racism. As many Gothic texts suggest, the true horrors of human existence often have less to do with inexplicable supernatural phenomena than with the realities of the world in which we live. 

ENGL 485.S01: Undergraduate Writing Center Learning Assistants 

Flexible Scheduling

Nathan Serfling

Since their beginnings in the 1920s and 30s, writing centers have come to serve numerous functions: as hubs for writing across the curriculum initiatives, sites to develop and deliver workshops and resource centers for faculty as well as students, among other functions. But the primary function of writing centers has necessarily and rightfully remained the tutoring of student writers. This course will immerse you in that function in two parts. During the first four weeks, you will explore writing center praxis—that is, the dialogic interplay of theory and practice related to writing center work. This part of the course will orient you to writing center history, key theoretical tenets and practical aspects of writing center tutoring. Once we have developed and practiced this foundation, you will begin work in the writing center as a tutor, responsible for assisting a wide variety of student clients with numerous writing tasks. Through this work, you will learn to actively engage with student clients in the revision of a text, respond to different student needs and abilities, work with a variety of writing tasks and rhetorical situations, and develop a richer sense of writing as a complex and negotiated social process.

Graduate Courses

Engl 572.s01: film criticism, engl 576.st1 fiction.

In this workshop-based creative writing course, students will develop original fiction based on strong attention to the fundamentals of literary storytelling: full-bodied characters, robust story lines, palpable environments and unique voices. We will pay particular attention to process awareness, to the integrity of the sentence and to authors' commitments to their characters and the places in which their stories unfold. Some workshop experience is helpful, as student peer critique will be an important element of the class.

ENGL 605.S01 Seminar in Teaching Composition

Thursdays 1-3:50 p.m.

This course will provide you with a foundation in the pedagogies and theories (and their attendant histories) of writing instruction, a foundation that will prepare you to teach your own writing courses at SDSU and elsewhere. As you will discover through our course, though, writing instruction does not come with any prescribed set of “best” practices. Rather, writing pedagogies stem from and continue to evolve because of various and largely unsettled conversations about what constitutes effective writing and effective writing instruction. Part of becoming a practicing writing instructor, then, is studying these conversations to develop a sense of what “good writing” and “effective writing instruction” might mean for you in our particular program and how you might adapt that understanding to different programs and contexts.

As we read about, discuss and research writing instruction, we will address a variety of practical and theoretical topics. The practical focus will allow us to attend to topics relevant to your immediate classroom practices: designing a curriculum and various types of assignments, delivering the course content and assessing student work, among others. Our theoretical topics will begin to reveal the underpinnings of these various practical matters, including their historical, rhetorical, social and political contexts. In other words, we will investigate the praxis—the dialogic interaction of practice and theory—of writing pedagogy. As a result, this course aims to prepare you not only as a writing teacher but also as a nascent writing studies/writing pedagogy scholar.

At the end of this course, you should be able to engage effectively in the classroom practices described above and participate in academic conversations about writing pedagogy, both orally and in writing. Assessment of these outcomes will be based primarily on the various writing assignments you submit and to a smaller degree on your participation in class discussions and activities.

ENGL 726.S01: The New Woman, 1880–1900s 

Thursdays 3–5:50 p.m.

Katherine Malone

This course explores the rise of the New Woman at the end of the nineteenth century. The label New Woman referred to independent women who rebelled against social conventions. Often depicted riding bicycles, smoking cigarettes and wearing masculine clothing, these early feminists challenged gender roles and sought broader opportunities for women’s employment and self-determination. We will read provocative fiction and nonfiction by New Women writers and their critics, including authors such as Sarah Grand, Mona Caird, George Egerton, Amy Levy, Ella Hepworth Dixon, Grant Allen and George Gissing. We will analyze these exciting texts through a range of critical lenses and within the historical context of imperialism, scientific and technological innovation, the growth of the periodical press and discourse about race, class and gender. In addition to writing an argumentative seminar paper, students will complete short research assignments and lead discussion.

ENGL 792.ST1 Women in War: Female Authors and Characters in Contemporary War Lit

In this course, we will explore the voices of female authors and characters in contemporary literature of war. Drawing from various literary theories, our readings and discussion will explore the contributions of these voices to the evolving literature of war through archetypal and feminist criticism. We will read a variety of short works (both theoretical and creative) and complete works such as (selections subject to change): "Eyes Right" by Tracy Crow, "Plenty of Time When We Get Home" by Kayla Williams, "You Know When the Men are Gone" by Siobhan Fallon, "Still, Come Home" by Katie Schultz and "The Fine Art of Camouflage" by Lauren Johnson.

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  11. 100 Academic Persuasive Research Topics

    Adademic Persuasive Writing. In this type of essay or paper, your job is to make a claim and support it using facts, logic, and research. While you might use personal experience to argue "Mandatory state testing is a bad idea," you will need to go beyond your own experience by using statistics, views of experts, and other evidence.

  12. 140 Best Persuasive Essay Topics [2024]

    If you are thinking about how to write a persuasive essay, you need to know that writing an essay is a complex process.Issues such as choosing a topic and conducting thorough research are involved with the chosen topic. The paper's analysis and the arguments' design also need to support the issues presented.

  13. 101 Persuasive Essay and Speech Topics

    Persuasive Essay and Speech Topics. Whether you are a student in need of a persuasive essay topic, or a teacher looking to assign a persuasive essay, this list of 101 persuasive essay topics is a great resource. I taxed my brain to create this huge list of persuasive essay topics relevant to today's society, but I believe it was worth the effort.

  14. 120 Persuasive Essay Topics

    10 Best Persuasive Essay Topics. Including the most interesting, thought-provoking and unique topics, this section contains the ten best persuasive essay topics out there. All problems facing humanity could be fixed with better technology. Embalming is a dangerous practice. Euthanasia should be illegal.

  15. 150+ Persuasive Research Paper Topics [Updated 2024]

    150+ Persuasive Research Paper Topics: Unlocking the Power of Persuasion. Welcome, readers, to the world of persuasive research paper topics, where the art of persuasion meets the rigor of research. Selecting the right topic is the key to crafting an impactful research paper that not only engages but also convinces your audience.

  16. 75 Persuasive Essay Topic Ideas

    A persuasive essay, if you're unfamiliar, is one in which you have to make an argument. You need to choose a side and prove why you're correct by using hard evidence and convincing language. The idea is that you want to convince the reader that your argument is the right one, so you'll definitely want to pick a topic that you're passionate ...

  17. 150 Argumentative Research Paper Topics [2024 Upd.]

    Restate the topic. Tell why the chosen topic is important. Restate the specific thesis/claim. Cover opposing points of view. Make readers align with the writer's position. Call readers to action or propose further research. These core elements are the critical final steps in writing an argumentative essay.

  18. 170+ Persuasive Research Paper Topics For Everyone

    A persuasive paper is written to convince the reader to accept a particular point of view or take a specific action. It is like the analogy of a lawyer arguing out a case before a jury. As a writer, you will take your stand on an issue—either "for" or "against"—and build the strongest possible argument to win over your reader.

  19. High Quality Persuasive Essay Topics (Updated for 2021)

    The three primary elements of any good rhetoric include pathos, ethos, and logos (emotion, credibility, and logic). Pathos refers to the emotional undercurrent in your persuasive essay. With pathos, you prevent your essay from being dry and boring. This is why it is important that you care about your subject.

  20. 115 Highly Persuasive Essay Topics

    115 Highly Persuasive Essay Topics. 110+ Irresistible Persuasive Essay Topics And Titles. Persuasive essays are the type of essays that aim to influence the thoughts and ideas of the readers with the help of supporting evidence. The most crucial part of a convincing essay is the topic or the thesis statement, because it provides a direction to ...

  21. Persuasive Essay Topics: 18 Great Essay Ideas Examples

    Getting Help With Your Persuasive Essay Topics or Essay. If you need help with a research paper, persuasive essay writing, persuasive speech writing, proofreading, formatting, or editing, contact reliable professionals such as WritingElites.net for help. Many students rely on online samples or articles about writing persuasive essays to help ...

  22. 200 Persuasive Essay Topics

    How to Write a Persuasive Essay . Unlike other types of similar essays, such as argumentative, a persuasive essay will not require an intense amount of research. Furthermore, instead of an aggressive tone to prove a point, persuasive essays rely on a casual tone that entices the reader to agree with the author's point of view. Introduction ...

  23. How to Write a Persuasive Essay: Tips and Tricks

    TIP 1: Some writers find it easier to write their introductions last. As long as you have your working thesis, this is a perfectly acceptable approach. From that thesis, you can plan your body paragraphs and then go back and write your introduction. TIP 2: Avoid "announcing" your thesis.

  24. 6.3.6: How to Write an Argument Essay

    Next, identify what you already know about this topic. Write a brief outline establishing what you want to argue on this topic. Establish the purpose of your argument. Establishing this before you start researching the topic will make it easier for you to determine what you need to cite in your paper. Next choose an appropriate format.

  25. One Cohort at a Time: A New Perspective on the Declining Gender Pay Gap

    This paper studies the interaction between the decrease in the gender pay gap and the stagnation in the careers of younger workers, analyzing data from the United States, Italy, Canada, and the United Kingdom. We propose a model of the labor market in which a larger supply of older workers can crowd out younger workers from top-paying positions.

  26. Is Software Eating the World?

    In addition to working papers, the NBER disseminates affiliates' latest findings through a range of free periodicals — the NBER Reporter, the NBER Digest, the Bulletin on Retirement and Disability, the Bulletin on Health, and the Bulletin on Entrepreneurship — as well as online conference reports, video lectures, and interviews.

  27. SIGGRAPH 2024 Technical Papers Trailer

    The SIGGRAPH Technical Papers program is the premier international forum for disseminating new scholarly work in computer graphics and interactive techniques...

  28. Inflation Targets: Practice Ahead of Theory

    Inflation targets were introduced well ahead of the development of the theory of inflation targeting. The practice was successful because it comprised a new set of procedures and institutions for setting monetary policy in a transparent and accountable fashion - "constrained discretion"; the later theory was less useful because it purported to be a theory of the determination of the ...

  29. Why Are Companies That Lose Money Still So Successful?

    The authors' series of new research papers provide some answers, guiding managers to make the right investments: those that produce delayed but real profits — not just those that produce short ...

  30. Fall 2024 Semester

    In addition to writing an argumentative seminar paper, students will complete short research assignments and lead discussion. ENGL 792.ST1 Women in War: Female Authors and Characters in Contemporary War Lit. Online. Amber Jensen, M.A., M.F.A. In this course, we will explore the voices of female authors and characters in contemporary literature ...