A Guide to Writing a Compelling Position Paper
Table of contents
- 1 What is a Position Paper?
- 2 An Effective Position Paper Format To Follow
- 3 Position Paper Outline Example
- 4 Tips For Creating an Effective Position Paper
- 4.1 Articulate Your Central Thesis Clearly
- 4.2 Examine a Topic and Gather Supporting Evidence
- 4.3 Construct Supporting Claims For The Positioning Statement
- 4.4 Anticipate and Study the Opposing Views
- 4.5 Construct Supporting Claims For The Positioning Statement
- 4.6 Ensure a Coherent Organisation and Structure Of your Paper
- 5 Position Paper Example Topics
- 6 Template For Writing a Position Essay
- 7 Position Paper Example
- 8 FAQ
Writing can be tough at times, especially when you have to express your opinion on a controversial issue, especially if such an opinion is an unconventional one. Such a piece of writing is called a position paper. It may seem that to speak your opinion out loud is a lot harder than to do the same, but in writing. The reality is that even when you prepare a speech for some debates, you have to write it down first.
Moreover, it gets easier as you speak, as no one requires you to say precisely what you’ve written down, but when it comes to writing, readers only get to know what you’ve put down and nothing more. Nothing can be changed as soon as you submit your work. So, let’s break down a universal position paper you could use for pretty much any topic.
Position essays serve as a tool to inform and educate the relevant audience and stakeholders. Here are some essay tips you can use to ensure that you are writing an effective position statement.
What is a Position Paper?
A position paper is an argument representing an organization or individual’s stand on an issue or problem in writing. This viewpoint is in opposition to another opinion. The content outlines beliefs, arguments, and evidence in support of their view. A position piece is to convince others to adopt a similar perspective or understand and recognize the reasoning behind an idea. Knowing how to write a good position statement and back your argument with statistics and evidence is important.
An Effective Position Paper Format To Follow
Suppose you are wondering how to write a position paper. A good position article begins with a well-crafted title. Once you have decided on the position paper title, start with the position paper outline. A typical position paper structure starts to introduce your topic and your stance on a topic, it is then followed by the body of position paper that includes counterarguments and claims that reinforce your position. It is then followed by a conclusion that reinforces your claim.
There are different types of research papers. The notable difference in an opinion piece is that two opposing viewpoints are presented without any one opinion being endorsed. However, in a position article you need to give your belief which is in opposition to another idea.
Writing position papers is different compared to other formats, and you want to set up a strong position. Here are five key differences in the form you should note if you are wondering how to write a position paper.
The best research paper writers will use the following components:
- The main goal while writing a position paper is to argue a specific view and convince the reader to adopt the same idea.
- It requires the writer to take a clear stand and defend it with solid reasoning and evidence.
- The text should incorporate research and sources to back what you are arguing throughout the parts of the position paper.
- The tone of the content needs to be formal and persuasive, which is different from other types of documents, for example, descriptive and narrative.
- The structure is also different, and a good system needs to be followed to set up a solid position.
Position Paper Outline Example
Every good position paper outline should start with writing a title for a research paper. Having done that, you can proceed with the outline. Notably, this kind of paper resembles an opinion essay, though, in the latter, you had to present two opposing opinions without necessarily sharing one of them. In the position paper, you need to counter an idea with that one of your own. So, a simple position paper outline example would look as follows:
As you see, this position paper sample outline can be applied to pretty much any topic.
Tips For Creating an Effective Position Paper
If you want to write an effective and well-crafted position paper, make sure that your writing is clear and persuasive, supported by robust research and evidence. Here are some tips for creating a paper that conveys your viewpoint most effectively.
Articulate Your Central Thesis Clearly
When articulating your position and the central statement, make sure it is clear and precise. The thesis should be stated concisely and in the introduction of position paper. To ensure that it is clear what side you are taking on the issue under discussion. It serves as the foundation for the complete paper. Once you have effectively positioned yourself while writing the introduction, the rest can focus on the supporting facts.
Examine a Topic and Gather Supporting Evidence
The first step in building a cohesive argument is to examine the topic and gather evidence. Start by carefully analyzing the issue and understanding the counter-arguments surrounding the case. In this way, you can formulate a well-informed position. The second step is to collect and review all evidence and facts; these should be extracted from reputable sources such as case studies, research papers, expert opinions, and statistics.
All the data that you gather needs to be relevant. With a solid foundation of your evidence, you can make a foolproof position statement and build superior quality paper.
Construct Supporting Claims For The Positioning Statement
To enhance your claim, it is crucial to build proofs that are logical. Introduce evidence to make your claims credible. When you write an essay stating your position, make sure you present each argument clearly and link it to your stance on the topic. Additionally, construct evidence to back your claim and make sure that you are also considering the opposing points.
Anticipate and Study the Opposing Views
To ensure that your paper is sturdy, anticipate and study the opposing points. By considering all opposing views, you are more prepared for the objections to your supporting claims and can address them in the paper. This displays your commitment to your claim.
It also proves that you have gone through all the alternative perspectives before making a decision. It also strengthens your paper by showing that it is well-researched. So, whenever you start, research both sides. Then, make a list of all the counterclaims made by those who disagree with your position.
Construct Supporting Claims For The Positioning Statement
Your writing style can make or break the paper. With a clear and straightforward manner, you can let your research be the highlight. This will help you avoid anything that may need to be clarified for the reader. Even if you pay for an essay to be written, avoid complex language and use shorter sentences with simple vocabulary.
Also, remove any unnecessary words and details that are irrelevant. Stay focused on the main point to make your position unchallengeable. This will help the reader follow your line of reasoning without any distractions.
Ensure a Coherent Organisation and Structure Of your Paper
If you want to communicate your argument while also persuading the audience effectively, it’s important to focus on the structure of your writing. A well-structured paper helps present your idea clearly and cohesively. Usually, academic essay writers start with the outline of the main points you would like to cover in the article.
From the beginning to the conclusion, ensure that the content flows seamlessly from one point to the next. The transition between sections also needs to be smooth. Also, use headings and subheadings to divide the text into paragraphs. These sections are then easy to navigate and comprehend.
Position Paper Example Topics
If you are wondering how to start a position paper, here are some example topics and titles you can take inspiration from:
- The benefits and uses of Artificial Intelligence in Healthcare
- Gig Economy and its benefits or drawbacks
- What is the future of work, and how will it impact our society?
- How is social media affecting our mental health?
- Generally modified crops; are they ethical or not?
- Does technology play a positive role in educating and education?
- The impact of climate change on wildlife and biodiversity
- The advantages and obstacles that we face due to urbanisation.
- Government and its role in protecting privacy rights.
- What will be the impact of automation and artificial intelligence on employees?
- Cruelty-free products; a positive step or a hoax?
- How does increasing income disparities result in an increased crime rate?
- Is virtual reality a way to overcome distances?
- Drones for military and civilian applications.
- Is work-from-home the new way forward?
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Template For Writing a Position Essay
Here is a sample position essay outline you can use
Introduction
- Define the issue and why it’s worth discussing
- Introduce your topic
- Discuss the background and controversies
- Choose a position
- Present your thesis statement and opinion in one sentence
Body
- Present the counterclaims and the evidence supporting them.
- Refute the opposing claims by stating your position. Ensure you reinforce your argument with data and statistics to set up a well-rooted claim.
- Ensure that the counter-arguments are equal to the pro-arguments: for example, for four counter-arguments, give four statements that back your viewpoint.
Conclusion
- Restate both viewpoints, and summarise the side you are arguing for.
- Provide a plan of action with a suggested resolution.
Position Paper Example
“Should video games be used in education?”
As a student at a medical university studying surgery, I strongly believe that video games have a valuable role to play in education. While they should not be the sole source of learning, they can provide valuable benefits.
Statistics show that video games increase engagement, develop critical thinking and problem-solving. Additionally, the interactive nature of video games can help students retain information better. This can be especially important in fields like medicine. Where it is important to remember complex procedures and concepts. For instance, in the field of surgery, video games can serve as a valuable tool for teaching anatomy and surgical procedures.
They allow students to practice and experiment in a safe, low-stakes environment. This can help to build their confidence and improve their understanding of complex concepts. Also, it can help to reduce the risk of mistakes during real-life surgeries.
In conclusion, video games can be a valuable addition to the educational toolkit. However, they should be used in conjunction with other methods to provide a well-rounded education for students. Using video games thoughtfully has the potential to enhance students’ learning and prepare them for success in their chosen fields.
