Opinion/Argument and Persuasive writing are very similar; trying to discern the differences can be confusing. Each kind of writing shares a similar goal: to convince the reader of something. Each has a slightly different approach. The goal of opinion/argument writing is to not only convince the reader, but to call the reader to make a change or act in some way. Opinion/argument writing relies on reasons that are rooted in evidence from valid sources.  This may include facts, data, or expert evidence.

While persuasive writing is based on opinion/argument writing, it doesn’t necessarily have to be supported with facts and evidence. For example, propaganda or advertisements are types of persuasive writing, and they often include unsupported claims. The goal of persuasive writing is to get the reader to agree with the writer. In addition, persuasive writing often appeals the audience on an emotional level, while opinion/argument writing limits its appeal to logical.

Bottom line? These three forms are very similar and even can be interchangeable. To be Career & College Ready, be sure that students are able to use logical, text-based evidence to support their claims.  Download a handy Comparison Chart.