A position paper is a chance to outline your opinion on an issue, usually for a debate tournament. This type of paper is usually one to two pages long, and contains three main sections: an introduction, a body, and a conclusion.
To write a position paper, start with an introduction that states your thesis, or main idea. Then, write a body paragraph for each point you want to make, using evidence to support your claims. Finally, conclude your position paper with a paragraph thatSummarize your main points and reiterate your thesis.
With these tips in mind, you’ll be able to write a position paper that’s well-argued and persuasive.
What are the uses for position papers?
Position papers are written by experts in a variety of fields, including politics, academia, law, and non-profit organizations. The following are some typical applications for a position paper:
Raise awareness
To raise awareness of a particular issue is one of the main goals of a position paper. Professionals have the chance to persuade their audience to take their point of view because these papers incorporate thorough research. Even if a professional is unsuccessful in persuading readers to agree with the ideas they present in their position paper, the essay can still inform readers about the topic at hand.
Shares information
Position papers frequently provide information and encourage the reader to consider more details about a particular subject. This is especially useful for a subject like technology that is evolving constantly or is frequently the subject of misinformation. For instance, officials alter the elementary school testing curriculum each year, but since only a small segment of the population is affected, others might not be aware of the modifications. People can learn about these curriculum changes by reading a professional’s position paper on them.
Builds skills
Writing a position paper helps professionals build valuable skills. Some of these skills may include:
What is a position paper?
A position paper is an essay that academics and professionals write to express their opinions on a particular subject. These issues frequently relate to current social issues or the authors’ field. Professionals may select their own topic, or a manager may do so. In order to write an informed and persuasive position paper, a professional conducts in-depth research before starting the writing process.
How to write a position paper
An introduction, body, and conclusion are the three fundamental sections of a position paper. Use these guidelines to create a position paper on any subject:
1. Choose a topic
It’s crucial to think about how you can support the topic and how your personal beliefs relate to it when selecting a topic for a position paper. Since a position paper’s goal is persuasion, the quality of your evidence for a claim may be more crucial than the topic itself.
Consider your argument and the viewpoint you support if a manager or supervisor assigns you a topic.
2. Conduct your research
A position paper requires ample research. Make sure there is sufficient information to support the topic you choose. It’s crucial to comprehend the definitions, applications, outcomes, and viewpoints of the subject as well as your own. You can conduct research using academic and governmental websites for authoritative data, periodicals, and news releases for updates.
3. Develop an argument
Choose a stance on the subject, then start constructing your case. In order to construct a strong argument, it is beneficial to take into account both the benefits and drawbacks. Consider the appeals you can make to the readers’ logic, emotion, or ethics when presenting an argument to convince them of your point of view.
Consider also the opposition to the position you choose. By doing so, you can prepare persuasive counterarguments and gauge public opinion on your issue.
4. Find supporting evidence
Conduct further research to support claims made by your argument. Collect proof from professionals who support the position you are writing by You can find new sources to support your argument and improve your defense arguments by researching evidence that is contrary to your position.
5. Create an outline
Make an outline for the paper after conducting the research and gathering the evidence to support your position. These are the sections of a position paper:
6. Write a draft of your paper
Follow the outline to create a draft of your position paper, then add content and research to it. When writing an argument, keep in mind that appeals to the reader’s logic, emotions, and ethics are effective persuasion techniques. Make sure your argument is well-supported with evidence, and if you think doing more research would help the paper, consider doing so.
7. Review and create final draft
To create a final draft of your position paper, go over your draft and make any necessary spelling and grammar changes. It is beneficial to have someone else proofread and offer suggestions for any potential improvements. Feedback is an indicator of how persuasive your argument is. Since these are professional papers, it’s crucial that you turn in your best work. A position paper may need to go through several drafts before it is submitted.
Position paper template
Use this sample as a guide to create your position paper’s draft and outline.
[Introduction][Begin with an attention-grabbing sentence that introduces your topic and thesis statement and expresses the viewpoint you are taking. ].
[Body][The first paragraph contains an argument that is supported by at least two facts] ].
[Second paragraph has a second argument with supporting evidence.]
[Third paragraph, adding a further justification for your claim and more proof] ].
[Conclusion][Conclusion contains a summary of the claims and arguments along with a sentence emphasizing the paper’s position. ].
How to Write a Position Paper
FAQ
What are the 3 parts of a position paper?
Position Paper Elements A traditional position paper has three main components: an introduction that identifies the topic to be covered and expresses the author’s position on it. A final paragraph restates the main points and, if necessary, offers suggestions for how to solve the problem.
How should I start my position paper?
A position paper should start out by outlining the issue and how it relates to the scientific community, or even society at large. It should then address the main position of the author.
How do you write a position paper sample?
Position papers typically have the following components to accomplish this goal: a clearly defined, contentious issue; a clear position on the issue; a convincing argument; and a reasonable tone.
What are the 4 parts of position paper?
Position papers typically have the following components to accomplish this goal: a clearly defined, contentious issue; a clear position on the issue; a convincing argument; and a reasonable tone.
