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113 Perfect Persuasive Essay Topics for Any Assignment

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General Education

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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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Top 257 Good Persuasive Essay Topics [Tips & Prompts]

prompts for a persuasive essay

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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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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112 Persuasive Speech Topics That Are Actually Engaging

What’s covered:, how to pick an awesome persuasive speech topic, 112 engaging persuasive speech topics, tips for preparing your persuasive speech.

Writing a stellar persuasive speech requires a carefully crafted argument that will resonate with your audience to sway them to your side. This feat can be challenging to accomplish, but an engaging, thought-provoking speech topic is an excellent place to start.

When it comes time to select a topic for your persuasive speech, you may feel overwhelmed by all the options to choose from—or your brain may be drawing a completely blank slate. If you’re having trouble thinking of the perfect topic, don’t worry. We’re here to help!

In this post, we’re sharing how to choose the perfect persuasive speech topic and tips to prepare for your speech. Plus, you’ll find 112 persuasive speech topics that you can take directly from us or use as creative inspiration for your own ideas!

Choose Something You’re Passionate About

It’s much easier to write, research, and deliver a speech about a cause you care about. Even if it’s challenging to find a topic that completely sparks your interest, try to choose a topic that aligns with your passions.

However, keep in mind that not everyone has the same interests as you. Try to choose a general topic to grab the attention of the majority of your audience, but one that’s specific enough to keep them engaged.

For example, suppose you’re giving a persuasive speech about book censorship. In that case, it’s probably too niche to talk about why “To Kill a Mockingbird” shouldn’t be censored (even if it’s your favorite book), and it’s too broad to talk about media censorship in general.

Steer Clear of Cliches

Have you already heard a persuasive speech topic presented dozens of times? If so, it’s probably not an excellent choice for your speech—even if it’s an issue you’re incredibly passionate about.

Although polarizing topics like abortion and climate control are important to discuss, they aren’t great persuasive speech topics. Most people have already formed an opinion on these topics, which will either cause them to tune out or have a negative impression of your speech.

Instead, choose topics that are fresh, unique, and new. If your audience has never heard your idea presented before, they will be more open to your argument and engaged in your speech.

Have a Clear Side of Opposition

For a persuasive speech to be engaging, there must be a clear side of opposition. To help determine the arguability of your topic, ask yourself: “If I presented my viewpoint on this topic to a group of peers, would someone disagree with me?” If the answer is yes, then you’ve chosen a great topic!

Now that we’ve laid the groundwork for what it takes to choose a great persuasive speech topic, here are over one hundred options for you to choose from.

  • Should high school athletes get tested for steroids?
  • Should schools be required to have physical education courses?
  • Should sports grades in school depend on things like athletic ability?
  • What sport should be added to or removed from the Olympics?
  • Should college athletes be able to make money off of their merchandise?
  • Should sports teams be able to recruit young athletes without a college degree?
  • Should we consider video gamers as professional athletes?
  • Is cheerleading considered a sport?
  • Should parents allow their kids to play contact sports?
  • Should professional female athletes be paid the same as professional male athletes?
  • Should college be free at the undergraduate level?
  • Is the traditional college experience obsolete?
  • Should you choose a major based on your interests or your potential salary?
  • Should high school students have to meet a required number of service hours before graduating?
  • Should teachers earn more or less based on how their students perform on standardized tests?
  • Are private high schools more effective than public high schools?
  • Should there be a minimum number of attendance days required to graduate?
  • Are GPAs harmful or helpful?
  • Should schools be required to teach about standardized testing?
  • Should Greek Life be banned in the United States?
  • Should schools offer science classes explicitly about mental health?
  • Should students be able to bring their cell phones to school?
  • Should all public restrooms be all-gender?
  • Should undocumented immigrants have the same employment and education opportunities as citizens?
  • Should everyone be paid a living wage regardless of their employment status?
  • Should supremacist groups be able to hold public events?
  • Should guns be allowed in public places?
  • Should the national drinking age be lowered?
  • Should prisoners be allowed to vote?
  • Should the government raise or lower the retirement age?
  • Should the government be able to control the population?
  • Is the death penalty ethical?

Environment

  • Should stores charge customers for plastic bags?
  • Should breeding animals (dogs, cats, etc.) be illegal?
  • Is it okay to have exotic animals as pets?
  • Should people be fined for not recycling?
  • Should compost bins become mandatory for restaurants?
  • Should electric vehicles have their own transportation infrastructure?
  • Would heavier fining policies reduce corporations’ emissions?
  • Should hunting be encouraged or illegal?
  • Should reusable diapers replace disposable diapers?

Science & Technology

  • Is paper media more reliable than digital news sources?
  • Should automated/self-driving cars be legalized?
  • Should schools be required to provide laptops to all students?
  • Should software companies be able to have pre-downloaded programs and applications on devices?
  • Should drones be allowed in military warfare?
  • Should scientists invest more or less money into cancer research?
  • Should cloning be illegal?
  • Should societies colonize other planets?
  • Should there be legal oversight over the development of technology?

Social Media

  • Should there be an age limit on social media?
  • Should cyberbullying have the same repercussions as in-person bullying?
  • Are online relationships as valuable as in-person relationships?
  • Does “cancel culture” have a positive or negative impact on societies?
  • Are social media platforms reliable information or news sources?
  • Should social media be censored?
  • Does social media create an unrealistic standard of beauty?
  • Is regular social media usage damaging to real-life interactions?
  • Is social media distorting democracy?
  • How many branches of government should there be?
  • Who is the best/worst president of all time?
  • How long should judges serve in the U.S. Supreme Court?
  • Should a more significant portion of the U.S. budget be contributed towards education?
  • Should the government invest in rapid transcontinental transportation infrastructure?
  • Should airport screening be more or less stringent?
  • Should the electoral college be dismantled?
  • Should the U.S. have open borders?
  • Should the government spend more or less money on space exploration?
  • Should students sing Christmas carols, say the pledge of allegiance, or perform other tangentially religious activities?
  • Should nuns and priests become genderless roles?
  • Should schools and other public buildings have prayer rooms?
  • Should animal sacrifice be legal if it occurs in a religious context?
  • Should countries be allowed to impose a national religion on their citizens?
  • Should the church be separated from the state?
  • Does freedom of religion positively or negatively affect societies?

Parenting & Family

  • Is it better to have children at a younger or older age?
  • Is it better for children to go to daycare or stay home with their parents?
  • Does birth order affect personality?
  • Should parents or the school system teach their kids about sex?
  • Are family traditions important?
  • Should parents smoke or drink around young children?
  • Should “spanking” children be illegal?
  • Should parents use swear words in front of their children?
  • Should parents allow their children to play violent video games?

Entertainment

  • Should all actors be paid the same regardless of gender or ethnicity?
  • Should all award shows be based on popular vote?
  • Who should be responsible for paying taxes on prize money, the game show staff or the contestants?
  • Should movies and television shows have ethnicity and gender quotas?
  • Should newspapers and magazines move to a completely online format?
  • Should streaming services like Netflix and Hulu be free for students?
  • Is the movie rating system still effective?
  • Should celebrities have more privacy rights?

Arts & Humanities

  • Are libraries becoming obsolete?
  • Should all schools have mandatory art or music courses in their curriculum?
  • Should offensive language be censored from classic literary works?
  • Is it ethical for museums to keep indigenous artifacts?
  • Should digital designs be considered an art form? 
  • Should abstract art be considered an art form?
  • Is music therapy effective?
  • Should tattoos be regarded as “professional dress” for work?
  • Should schools place greater emphasis on the arts programs?
  • Should euthanasia be allowed in hospitals and other clinical settings?
  • Should the government support and implement universal healthcare?
  • Would obesity rates lower if the government intervened to make healthy foods more affordable?
  • Should teenagers be given access to birth control pills without parental consent?
  • Should food allergies be considered a disease?
  • Should health insurance cover homeopathic medicine?
  • Is using painkillers healthy?
  • Should genetically modified foods be banned?
  • Should there be a tax on unhealthy foods?
  • Should tobacco products be banned from the country?
  • Should the birth control pill be free for everyone?

If you need more help brainstorming topics, especially those that are personalized to your interests, you can  use CollegeVine’s free AI tutor, Ivy . Ivy can help you come up with original persuasive speech ideas, and she can also help with the rest of your homework, from math to languages.

Do Your Research

A great persuasive speech is supported with plenty of well-researched facts and evidence. So before you begin the writing process, research both sides of the topic you’re presenting in-depth to gain a well-rounded perspective of the topic.

Understand Your Audience

It’s critical to understand your audience to deliver a great persuasive speech. After all, you are trying to convince them that your viewpoint is correct. Before writing your speech, consider the facts and information that your audience may already know, and think about the beliefs and concerns they may have about your topic. Then, address these concerns in your speech, and be mindful to include fresh, new information.

Have Someone Read Your Speech

Once you have finished writing your speech, have someone read it to check for areas of strength and improvement. You can use CollegeVine’s free essay review tool to get feedback on your speech from a peer!

Practice Makes Perfect

After completing your final draft, the key to success is to practice. Present your speech out loud in front of a mirror, your family, friends, and basically, anyone who will listen. Not only will the feedback of others help you to make your speech better, but you’ll become more confident in your presentation skills and may even be able to commit your speech to memory.

Hopefully, these ideas have inspired you to write a powerful, unique persuasive speech. With the perfect topic, plenty of practice, and a boost of self-confidence, we know you’ll impress your audience with a remarkable speech!

Related CollegeVine Blog Posts

prompts for a persuasive 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

persuasive essay topics

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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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prompts for a persuasive essay

Persuasive Essay Topics - Top Choices

prompts for a persuasive essay

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 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?

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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.

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  • Added new topics.
  • Added FAQs.
  • 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  

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Persuasive Essay Guide

Persuasive Essay Topics

Last updated on: Dec 21, 2023

Persuasive Essay Topics Ideas to Craft an A-Worthy Essay

By: Caleb S.

11 min read

Reviewed By: Melisa C.

Published on: Jan 14, 2020

Persuasive Essay Topics

Are you having trouble starting to write a persuasive essay?

Can’t think of interesting persuasive essay topics to write on?

To help students like you find good persuasive essay topics, we have gathered a wide range of ideas on different subjects and academic levels.

Therefore, continue reading this blog and pick the best topic from the list for your essay.

Persuasive Essay Topics

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Persuasive Essay Topics for Students

The first step of writing a persuasive essay is to choose an interesting topic. If you are not sure what topic is best to write your persuasive essay on, this article is for you.

Here are some good topics for a persuasive writing assignment that will help you craft an interesting essay.

Persuasive Essay Topics for University Students

  • Should churches pay property taxes to support schools?
  • Teachers should also have to go through professional tests like students.
  • Social media should be banned on school premises.
  • Is getting a college degree worth its price?
  • How is home education better than studying at a school?
  • It shouldn’t be legal for students under 18 to drop out of school.
  • Students with good attendance must be rewarded.
  • Students with good academic results must get the opportunity to go to college free of cost.
  • The government shouldn’t have a say in how students should be taught.
  • Making the education sector free can decrease poverty rates. Is that true?

Persuasive Essay Topics for College

  • Wrestling is a dehumanizing sport.
  • Should all college students get a chance to experience fraternity or sorority?
  • Should there be an age limit that teachers can teach?Is taking a gap year from studies a good idea?
  • School students shouldn’t get assigned countless academic papers.
  • Reducing paper consumption can benefit nature largely.
  • The research paper is more effective to learn about the subject than exams.
  • Do you agree that the feminist movement devalued motherhood?
  • Do you think that the older generation can learn things from today’s generation?
  • International exchange program experience, I agree, is important in shaping a student.

Persuasive Essay Topics for High School

  • Is it possible for a person to overcome his fear?
  • Should students evaluate their teachers?
  • Is it ok to give extra incentives to students with good grades?
  • What are the pros and cons of using cell phones for academic purposes?
  • The social value of the death penalty in the United States.
  • School college students should write argumentative essays.
  • Who, in your opinion, influences the teenager's behavior the most?
  • Why are teen girls influenced by celebrities?
  • Should genetically modified foods be sold with a warning label?
  • All the arts have become commoditized.

Persuasive Essay Topics for Grade 9

  • Divorce isn’t always due to the absence of love.
  • Pornography should be banned in the United States.
  • How important is it for a child to grow up with two parents?
  • All students should be taught computer programming in school.
  • We should blame our horoscope for things that have gone wrong in our lives.
  • To get a perspective on life and what it is about, we should spend time with a kid.
  • How to control hazing on college campuses.Listening to music on school campuses shouldn’t be allowed.
  • There are drawbacks to studying abroad.Stricter punishments should be imposed on downloading music and movies illegally.

Persuasive Essay Topics for Middle School

  • Kindness is beautiful.
  • Do you agree?Pros and Cons of summer classes.
  • School computers must have internet filters.
  • Participation in school sports must be mandatory for students.
  • Bullying in schools requires severe punishments.
  • Should there be any flexibility with the policies for illegal immigrants?
  • Why should every school have a school newspaper?
  • Are we the real culprits of global warming?
  • Do violent video games make children more likely to be violent themselves?
  • The internet was invented to control our lives. Do you disagree?

Persuasive Essay Topics for Grade 6

  • Is toothpaste healthy?
  • Churches should pay taxes.
  • What is the role of the media in sports life?
  • Adopting pets is the best choice.Fairy tales are good for young children.
  • Should our country have free healthcare?
  • Fizzy drinks should be banned from school.
  • Free time gets teens into trouble.
  • The best way to travel is in a guided group.Should nuclear power be used?

Persuasive Essay Topics for Grade 7

  • Should a college education be free?
  • We should provide food for the poor.
  • Is it a good idea to keep pets outdoors?
  • What school rules would you change?
  • Hunting is not ethical in any life situation.
  • Should horse racing be banned?
  • My allowance should be bigger.
  • Bullies have no place in schools.
  • Computer design isn’t art.
  • Yoga supports the body and soul.

Persuasive Essay Topics for Grade 8

  • Having more than four kids is irresponsible.
  • Is art a natural talent, or takes hard work and practice to learn?
  • Choose a life partner who has the same educational level as you.
  • Drinking while driving penalties must be much stricter.
  • College students must consider joining a fraternity or sorority.
  • Standardized tests are increasing for school students.
  • Studying at a public school is better than studying at a private school.
  • Wives shouldn’t make more money than their husbands.
  • We should teach etiquette in schools.
  • Is it justified for a person to demand a divorce from their spouse?

Persuasive Essay Topics for Kids

  • Are vampires real?
  • Time travel is possible.
  • Global warming is just a way to scare people.
  • Healthcare systems should be free.
  • Computers don’t make us smarter.
  • Animal abuse is a result of an uneducated owner.
  • The importance of going to the dentist frequently.
  • Discuss the pros and cons of summer classes.
  • Nobody should litter.
  • What is the best way to persuade someone?

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Persuasive Essay Topics About Animals

  • Do you agree with the statement, “Animal testing is a necessary evil?
  • ”People shouldn’t be allowed to keep exotic animals as pets.
  • Zoos are useful for wildlife conservation.
  • Zoo animals should be harvested for food.
  • Is creating hybrids by breeding stray dogs and cats okay?
  • What is the best way to train a dog: rewards or punishments?
  • Is it beneficial to give cows drugs to increase their milk supply?
  • Using animal skin to make coats and bags is unethical.
  • Reforestation is the only way to save animals from becoming extinct.
  • Conserving endangered species is much more essential than the conservation of other animals.

Funny Persuasive Essay Topics

  • What would happen if unicorns took over the world?
  • The worst movie in the world.
  • The worst social network site.
  • Why does the beach have tanning booths?
  • Good video game skills can land you a job.
  • Why do you enjoy getting spam emails more than actual emails?
  • Is it true that wearing braces scares off strangers?
  • Playing with Barbie dolls can change your life.
  • How to look busy and do nothing at work.
  • Do you agree with the statement, "Boys gossip more than girls do?"

Sports Persuasive Essay Topics

  • College athletes dedicate a lot of time to sports, and they should be paid.
  • Female students should be encouraged to participate in sports as much as male students.
  • How can the school management improve this situation?
  • Wimbledon is not as prestigious anymore.
  • Importance of sports.
  • Gender discrimination is a big issue in sports competitions.
  • Girls can play and compete at the same level as boys their age.
  • Bodybuilding has severe risks for females.
  • Physically active kids make physically active adults.
  • Therefore, parents and teachers should encourage taking part in sports.
  • According to you, who is the best FIFA player?
  • What can other players do to become like him?
  • Energy drinks such as Red Bull have harmful effects on the human body.
  • Therefore, athletes must stop consuming them.

Controversial Persuasive Essay Topics

  • Polygamy should be legalized in the United States.
  • Having a lesbian mother can have adverse effects on a daughter.
  • Torture is a necessity for monstrous crimes such as murder, rape, etc.
  • The world would be a better place if everyone followed a single religion.
  • Euthanasia and physician-assisted suicide should be made legal in every state.
  • Online plagiarism is a serious problem. What actions need to be taken to stop it?
  • High school and college surveillance isn’t ethical, nor is it safe.
  • It should be stopped immediately.
  • Is it ethical to prescribe drugs?
  • How can we put an end to school bullying?
  • It isn’t fair to the band members to have less power and control than the music producers.

Unusual Persuasive Essay Topics

  • Is alcoholism a disease?
  • Is having a pet waste of time?
  • Is capital punishment necessary?
  • Art should serve as a symbol of culture, and be returned to its country if it was taken from there.
  • Young people only think about money. Agree?
  • Living in university dormitories is an essential step to help you achieve academic success.
  • Pharmaceutical industries are disrupting our lives.
  • People are wasting their money on lotteries and it isn't worth the risk.
  • Is having friends such a necessity?
  • Transgenic foods: What are you for or against?

Higher English Persuasive Essay Topics

  • Why should the government ban sports bet?
  • A family should encourage self-expression, not inhibit it.
  • The impact of TV cartoons on children's behavior should be controlled by their parents.
  • English language learning should not be a requirement for anyone.
  • There are many reasons e-books should not replace paper books.
  • Cheating during college exams should be strictly punished.
  • Teaching deaf children how to read is a vital part of their mental development.
  • Fast food is a bad invention.
  • Drug tests should be mandatory for high school sportspeople.
  • School uniforms are an effective way to maintain discipline with students.

Easy Persuasive Essay Topics

  • Paparazzi culture must get banned.
  • Kids should be taught about different religions and then have them choose.
  • Using earphones while driving must not be allowed.
  • Everyone under the age of 7 should have a 9 pm curfew.
  • Celebrities who break the law should have bigger penalties.
  • Drug dealers selling drugs to kids should face the death penalty.
  • The government should start a three-day weekend.
  • Introducing grades for gym classes can help fight obesity.
  • The government should keep better control of the content being shared on the internet.
  • Kids need a personal space similar to adults.

Good Persuasive Essay Topics

  • Punishment for cutting school should be made much worse.
  • Parents who smoke shouldn’t tell their kids about its harmful effects.
  • The major cause of obesity in America is fast-food chains.
  • Women perform better than men in managerial posts.
  • To improve the quality of education, the number of classes must be decreased.
  • Should parents buy young kids gadgets for studies and learning purposes?
  • Paparazzi culture should be banned. It puts lives in danger.
  • A gap year after high school should be made compulsory.
  • Optimism is key to good health.
  • Persuasive speeches should be powerful.

Interesting Persuasive Essay Topics

  • Pros and Cons of having school all year long.
  • Participating in sports must be made compulsory for every student.
  • Men are smarter than women.
  • Consumption of tea is more harmful than coffee.
  • Luck is an important part of success.
  • Spanking kids should be a crime.
  • Kidnapping by parents is a serious problem nowadays.
  • The solution to the energy crisis is nuclear power.
  • Male and female employees should have the same working privileges and environment.
  • Homeschooling is better than going to a regular school.

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Persuasive Essay Topics 2022

  • Should the jury system be eradicated?
  • Biological weapons should be banned.
  • The next generations should live on Mars.
  • Is governmental surveillance a good thing?
  • Children under 18 shouldn’t be allowed to buy contraceptives.
  • Teen moms should be made to go to classes that encourage them to get married.
  • Sex education should occur at home.
  • Educating women is a waste of resources.
  • Everyone should have free access to the internet in today's day and age.
  • Theoretical subjects should be decreased, and students should study more practical courses to learn things.

How to Choose a Good Persuasive Essay Topic?

Writing your persuasive essay means more than simply arguing the facts. However, you need to settle on a persuasive essay topic that allows you to present the best possible case.

You won’t be able to do that if you write a persuasive essay on a topic that is:

  • Emotionally-charged
  • Too familiar
  • Not interesting for the target audience
  • Factual, and you avoid analysis or reasoning

Here’s what you should do when choosing your essay topics :

  • Take a stand
  • Check for evidence and facts
  • Make a list of specific ideas
  • Outline the purpose of your essay
  • Choose an accessible topic
  • Find a topic that convinces the reader

Hopefully, you have found a good persuasive essay idea by this point and are heading towards the writing process. However, if you’re overwhelmed by the requirements of writing a persuasive and argumentative paper or you’re short on time, we are here to help.

5StarEssays.com is one of the top essay writing services with professional essay writers who deliver high-quality academic writing at the most affordable prices. You only have to request to write an essay for me  and our professional writers help you.

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If you want to achieve academic excellence, place your order now.

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Medical school essay, Literature

Caleb S. has been providing writing services for over five years and has a Masters degree from Oxford University. He is an expert in his craft and takes great pride in helping students achieve their academic goals. Caleb is a dedicated professional who always puts his clients first.

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30 Writing Topics: Persuasion

Writing Prompts for a Persuasive Paragraph, Essay, or Speech

  • An Introduction to Punctuation
  • Ph.D., Rhetoric and English, University of Georgia
  • M.A., Modern English and American Literature, University of Leicester
  • B.A., English, State University of New York

When considering topics  for a persuasive paragraph , essay , or speech , focus on those that genuinely interest you and that you know something about. Any one of the 30 issues listed here may serve as a good starting point, but feel free to adapt the topic to meet the needs and concerns of your audience . 

30 Persuasive Writing Topics

  • In an essay or speech addressed to your boss, explain why you deserve a raise in pay. Be sure to provide specific information to justify the proposed pay increase.
  • Some people dismiss science fiction or fantasy as a purely juvenile form of amusement, an escape from problems and issues in the real world. Referring to one or more particular books, movies, or television programs, explain why you agree or disagree with this observation
  • When the Credit Card Accountability, Responsibility, and Disclosure Act was put into practice in 2010, it limited the ability of anyone under the age of 21 to qualify for a credit card. Explain why you support or oppose the restrictions that have been placed on students' access to credit cards
  • Though texting is a valuable way of communicating, some people spend too much time sending messages by phone instead of interacting with others face to face. Addressing an audience of your peers, explain why you agree or disagree with this observation.
  • Most of the so-called reality programs on television are highly artificial and bear little resemblance to real life. Drawing on one or more specific programs for your examples, explain why you agree or disagree with this observation
  • Online learning is not only convenient for students and teachers but often more effective than traditional classroom instruction. Addressing an audience of your peers, explain why you agree or disagree with this observation
  • Some educators favor replacing the letter-grade method of evaluating student performance with a pass-fail grading system. Explain why you support or oppose such a change, drawing on examples from your own experience in school or college
  • Laws should be enacted to restrict the bonuses that can be given to the CEOs of companies that are debt-ridden and losing money. With reference to one or more specific companies, explain why you agree or disagree with this proposal
  • Teachers and administrators in many American schools are now authorized to conduct random inspections of students' lockers and backpacks. Explain why you support or oppose this practice
  • Explain why you do or do not favor a major reform of English spelling so that each sound is represented by only one letter or one combination of letters
  • Because electric cars are costly and don't do enough to protect the environment, the government should eliminate subsidies and incentives for manufacturers and consumers of these vehicles. With reference to at least one particular vehicle that has been supported by federal subsidies, explain why you agree or disagree with this proposal
  • To save fuel and money, Friday classes should be eliminated on campus and a four-day work week implemented for all employees. With reference to the effects of reduced schedules at other schools or colleges, explain why you support or oppose this plan
  • In a speech or essay directed at a younger friend or family member, explain why dropping out of high school to take a job before graduation is or is not a good idea
  • Explain why you do or not favor the enforcement of a mandatory retirement age so that more job opportunities can be created for young people
  • Not all recycling projects are cost-effective. Explain why you agree or disagree with the principle that any community recycling project must turn a profit or at least pay for itself
  • In a speech or essay addressed to the head of your school or college, explain why snack and soda vending machines should or should not be removed from all classroom buildings on your campus
  • Over the past 20 years, more and more public schools have implemented policies requiring students to wear uniforms. Explain why you support or oppose mandated school uniforms
  • The city council is now considering a proposal to allow construction of a shelter for homeless individuals and families. The proposed site for the homeless shelter is adjacent to your campus. Explain why you support or oppose this proposal
  • Research has shown that a short afternoon nap can promote physical well-being and improve mood and memory. Explain why you support or oppose a proposal to adjust schedules so that napping will be encouraged at your school or workplace, even if this means a longer work day
  • Many states now require proof of U.S. citizenship before admitting a student to a public college or university. Explain why you support or oppose this requirement
  • Rather than lay off workers in bad economic times, some companies have chosen to reduce the length of the work week (while also reducing pay) for all employees. Explain why you support or oppose a shorter work week
  • The introduction of new digital technologies has radically altered people's reading habits over the past 25 years. In light of this change, explain why students should or should not be required to read lengthy textbooks and novels in their classes
  • In some school districts, children are bused to schools outside their neighborhood in an effort to achieve diversity. Explain whether you favor or oppose compulsory busing of schoolchildren.
  • Explain why doctors and school nurses should or should not be allowed to prescribe contraceptives to children under the age of 16
  • Your state legislature is now considering a proposal to allow drinking by 18- to 20-year-olds after they have completed an alcohol education program. Explain why you support or oppose this proposal
  • Some school authorities have the power to remove from libraries and classrooms any books that they consider inappropriate for children or teens. Pointing to specific examples of how this power has been exercised, explain why you support or oppose this form of censorship
  • To reduce unemployment among young people, legislation has been introduced to repeal all minimum-wage laws. Explain why you support or oppose such legislation
  • There have recently been movements to boycott products imported from countries that tolerate the exploitation of underage workers. Using specific examples, explain why you support or oppose such boycotts
  • In your school or college, instructors have the right to ban cell phones (or mobiles) in their classrooms. Explain why you favor or oppose such a ban
  • In some cities, traffic congestion has been reduced by the creation of toll zones. Explain why you do or do not favor the imposition of mandatory fees on drivers in your city.
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130 New Prompts for Argumentative Writing

Questions on everything from mental health and sports to video games and dating. Which ones inspire you to take a stand?

prompts for a persuasive essay

By The Learning Network

Note: We have an updated version of this list, with 300 new argumentative writing prompts .

What issues do you care most about? What topics do you find yourself discussing passionately, whether online, at the dinner table, in the classroom or with your friends?

In Unit 5 of our free yearlong writing curriculum and related Student Editorial Contest , we invite students to research and write about the issues that matter to them, whether that’s Shakespeare , health care , standardized testing or being messy .

But with so many possibilities, where does one even begin? Try our student writing prompts.

In 2017, we compiled a list of 401 argumentative writing prompts , all drawn from our daily Student Opinion column . Now, we’re rounding up 130 more we’ve published since then ( available here as a PDF ). Each prompt links to a free Times article as well as additional subquestions that can help you think more deeply about it.

You might use this list to inspire your own writing and to find links to reliable resources about the issues that intrigue you. But even if you’re not participating in our contest, you can use these prompts to practice the kind of low-stakes writing that can help you hone your argumentation skills.

So scroll through the list below with questions on everything from sports and mental health to dating and video games and see which ones inspire you to take a stand.

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101 Interesting Persuasive Essay Topics for Kids and Teens

Use your words to sway the reader.

Persuasive Essay Topics: Should we allow little kids to play competitive sports?

Persuasive writing is one of those skills that can help students succeed in real life.  Persuasive essays are similar to argumentative , but they rely less on facts and more on emotion to sway the reader. It’s important to know your audience so you can anticipate any counterarguments they might make and try to overcome them. Try reading some mentor texts to show kids great examples of opinion writing. Then use these persuasive essay topics for practice.

School and Education Persuasive Essay Topics

Life and ethics persuasive essay topics, science and technology persuasive essay topics, sports and entertainment persuasive essay topics, just for fun persuasive essay topics.

  

  • Do you think homework should be required, optional, or not given at all?

Persuasive Essay Topics: Do you think homework should be required, optional, or not given at all?

  • Students should/should not be able to use their phones during the school day.
  • Should schools have dress codes?
  • If I could change one school rule, it would be …
  • Is year-round school a good idea?
  • Should we stop giving final exams?
  • Is it better to be good at academics or good at sports?

Is it better to be good at academics or good at sports?

  • Which is better, private schools or public schools?
  • Should every student have to participate in athletics?
  • Do you think schools should ban junk food from their cafeterias?
  • Should students be required to volunteer in their communities?
  • What is the most important school subject?
  • Are letter grades helpful, or should we replace them with something else?

Persuasive Essay Topics: Are letter grades helpful, or should we replace them with something else?

  • Is it ever OK to cheat on homework or a test?
  • Should students get to grade their teachers?
  • Do you think college should be free for anyone who wants to attend?
  • Should schools be allowed to ban some books from their libraries?
  • Which is better, book smarts or street smarts?

Which is better, book smarts or street smarts?

  • Should all students have to learn a foreign language?
  • Are single-gender schools better or worse for students?
  • Is it OK to eat animals?
  • What animal makes the best pet?
  • Visit an animal shelter, choose an animal that needs a home, and write an essay persuading someone to adopt that animal.
  • If you find money on the ground, should you try to find the person who lost it, or is it yours to keep?

If you find money on the ground, should you try to find the person who lost it, or is it yours to keep?

  • Who faces more peer pressure, girls or boys?
  • Should all Americans be required to vote?
  • Is it better to be kind or truthful?
  • Which is better, giving or receiving?
  • Is it OK to keep animals in zoos?
  • Should we change the minimum driving age in the United States?

Should we change the minimum driving age in the United States?

  • Which is more important, happiness or success?
  • Is democracy the best form of government?
  • Is social media helpful or harmful?
  • Should parents be punished for their children’s mistakes or crimes?
  • Should kids have set bedtimes or just go to bed when they’re sleepy?
  • Do you think the government should find a way to provide free health care for everyone?

Do you think the government should find a way to provide free health care for everyone?

  • Is it better to save your allowance or spend it?
  • Should we ban plastic bags and bottles?
  • Which is better, living in the city or in the country?
  • If I could make a new law, it would be …
  • Is Pluto a planet?
  • Should human cloning be legal?
  • Should vaccines be mandatory?
  • Is it right for countries to still maintain nuclear weapon arsenals?

Is it right for countries to still maintain nuclear weapon arsenals?

  • Should testing on animals be made illegal?
  • Will expanded use of artificial intelligence be good for humanity?
  • Should all people have free Internet access in their homes?
  • Is there intelligent life on other planets?
  • Does technology create more jobs than it eliminates?
  • Should parents use their children’s cell phones to track where they are?
  • Should scientists try to develop a way for people to live forever?

Should scientists try to develop a way for people to live forever?

  • What’s the best type of smartphone: Android or iPhone?
  • Which is better, Macs or PCs?
  • Do people rely too much on technology in the modern world?
  • Should cryptocurrencies replace cash?
  • Should there be a minimum age requirement to own a smartphone?
  • Is it important to keep spending money on space exploration, or should we use the money for other things?

Is it important to keep spending money on space exploration, or should we use the money for other things?

  • Should kids under 13 be allowed to use social media sites?
  • Should we ban cigarette smoking and vaping entirely?
  • Is it better to be an animal that lives in the water or on land?
  • Should kids be allowed to watch TV on school nights?
  • Which is better, paper books or e-books?
  • Is the current movie rating system (G, PG, PG-13, etc.) effective?
  • Are video games better than board games?
  • Should we allow little kids to play competitive sports?

Should we allow little kids to play competitive sports?

  • Which is better, reading books or watching TV?
  • Does playing violent video games make people more violent in real life?
  • Are graphic novels just as valuable as traditional fictional books?
  • Should everyone play on the same sports teams, regardless of gender?
  • Choose a book that’s been made into a movie. Which was better, the movie or the book?

Choose a book that's been made into a movie. Which was better, the movie or the book?

  • Who is the world’s best athlete, present or past?
  • Are professional athletes/musicians/actors overpaid?
  • Which is better, fiction or nonfiction?
  • The best music genre is …
  • What is one book that everyone should read?
  • What new sport should be added to the Olympics?

What new sport should be added to the Olympics?

  • What’s the best video game system?
  • Does playing video games make you smarter?
  • Does reality TV actually depict real life?
  • Should all neighborhoods have free parks and playgrounds?
  • What’s the best holiday?
  • The very best food of all time is …
  • Which is better, artificial Christmas trees or real ones?

Which is better, artificial Christmas trees or real ones?

  • What’s the best season of the year?
  • Should you put ketchup on a hot dog?
  • Is a taco a sandwich?
  • Does fruit count as dessert?
  • Should people have to go to school or work on their birthday?
  • Are clowns scary or funny?
  • Which is more dangerous, werewolves or vampires?

Which is more dangerous, werewolves or vampires?

  • The best pizza topping is …
  • What would be the best superpower to have?
  • Should everyone make their bed every day?
  • Which came first, the chicken or the egg?
  • Should you put pineapple on a pizza?
  • Should you eat macaroni and cheese with a spoon or a fork?

Should you eat macaroni and cheese with a spoon or a fork?

  • Describe the world’s best ice cream sundae.
  • Is Monday the worst day of the week?
  • Would you rather travel back in time or forward in time?
  • Is it better to be too hot or too cold?
  • Are there aliens living among us here on Earth?

What are your favorite persuasive essay topics for students? Come exchange ideas in the We Are Teachers HELPLINE group on Facebook .

Plus, check out the big list of essay topics for high school (120+ ideas) ..

Need some ideas for practicing persuasive writing skills? These persuasive essay topics provide lots of scope for students of all ages.

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What one class should all high schools students be required to take and pass in order to graduate?

The Big List of Essay Topics for High School (120+ Ideas!)

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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?

This is an image of a young woman writing an essay. She is in a library and appears to be in deep concentration.

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

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Writing Beginner

200+ Opinion Writing Prompts & Examples

Every great essay starts with a single idea.

Whether you’re a student working on a class assignment or a teacher looking for engaging ways to spark discussion, opinion writing prompts can inspire critical thinking and help articulate ideas clearly.

This blog post offers over 200 unique opinion writing prompts, sentence starters, tips for teachers, and sample rubrics for grading.

What Is an Opinion Writing Prompt?

OPINION WRITING PROMPTS written on a whiteboard in a modern, comfortable classroom

Table of Contents

Opinion writing is a powerful tool that allows you to express your thoughts, beliefs, and perspectives on a wide range of topics.

An opinion writing prompt is a question or statement designed to encourage the writer to take a stance.

These prompts ask the writer to express their opinion and provide reasons, evidence, and examples to support their viewpoint. Opinion writing helps develop critical thinking, persuasive skills, and the ability to organize and articulate thoughts coherently.

Opinion Writing Prompts: 200+ Ideas

Browse through these opinion writing prompts and choose the one that jumps out at you.

Social Issues

  • Should streaming platforms have stricter regulations on content?
  • Is it fair to ban plastic bags to protect the environment?
  • Should schools implement mandatory community service for students?
  • Is it important to preserve endangered languages?
  • Should there be a limit on screen time for children?
  • Is universal basic income a good idea for society?
  • Should cities invest more in public transportation?
  • Is recycling really making a significant impact on the environment?
  • Should governments prioritize mental health services over physical health?
  • Is it ethical to clone animals for research purposes?
  • Should students be required to wear school uniforms?
  • Is homework necessary for effective learning?
  • Should schools have longer recess periods?
  • Is standardized testing a good measure of student ability?
  • Should technology be more integrated into the classroom?
  • Is it better to learn a second language at an early age?
  • Should schools provide more life skills classes, like cooking and budgeting?
  • Is online learning as effective as in-person classes?
  • Should art and music education be mandatory in schools?
  • Is it fair to give students grades for participation?
  • Should there be age restrictions on smartphone usage?
  • Is artificial intelligence a threat to human jobs?
  • Is it fair to hold social media platforms accountable for misinformation shared on their sites?
  • Is it ethical to use facial recognition technology?
  • Should parents monitor their children’s online activities?
  • Is the constant advancement of technology harming society?
  • Should self-driving cars be allowed on public roads?
  • Is it important to limit screen time for all ages?
  • Should the government regulate internet access more strictly?
  • Is online privacy more important than national security?

Health and Wellness

  • Should schools offer healthier lunch options?
  • Is it necessary to exercise every day?
  • Should sugary drinks be banned in schools?
  • Is mental health just as important as physical health?
  • Should fast food companies be responsible for promoting healthy choices?
  • Is it better to be a vegetarian or a meat-eater?
  • Should schools have mandatory physical education classes?
  • Is it important to get eight hours of sleep every night?
  • Should there be stricter regulations on junk food advertising?
  • Is it ethical to use animals for medical testing?

Environment

  • Should governments enforce stricter penalties for littering?
  • Is climate change the most pressing issue of our time?
  • Should more money be invested in renewable energy sources?
  • Is it important to protect national parks from development?
  • Should individuals be required to compost their food waste?
  • Is it better to buy local products to reduce carbon footprints?
  • Should plastic water bottles be banned?
  • Is it important to conserve water even in regions where it’s abundant?
  • Should we prioritize reforestation efforts over urban development?
  • Is nuclear energy a safe and effective alternative to fossil fuels?

Government and Politics

  • Should voting be mandatory in all democratic countries?
  • Is it important to have term limits for elected officials?
  • Should the government provide free healthcare to all citizens?
  • Is it fair to impose higher taxes on the wealthy?
  • Should there be more restrictions on campaign financing?
  • Is it important to maintain strong military forces?
  • Should governments censor certain types of media?
  • Do we need more stringent laws for gun control?
  • Is lowering the voting age to 16 a good idea?
  • Is it important for governments to invest in space exploration?

Society and Culture

  • Should cultural heritage sites be preserved at all costs?
  • Is it fair to judge people based on their fashion choices?
  • Should celebrities be held to higher standards of behavior?
  • Is it important to maintain traditions in a rapidly changing world?
  • Should reality TV shows be considered harmful to society?
  • Is it ethical to profit from someone else’s cultural practices?
  • Is it ethical for people to have exotic animals as pets?
  • Is it important to support local artists and musicians?
  • Should there be laws against hate speech?
  • Is it necessary to teach young people about cultural diversity?

Family and Relationships

  • Should parents be held accountable for their children’s actions?
  • Is it better to have siblings or to be an only child?
  • Should children have a say in family decisions?
  • Is it important for families to eat dinner together every night?
  • Should grandparents play a more active role in raising children?
  • Is it necessary to maintain strong family ties as an adult?
  • Should parents be allowed to choose their children’s careers?
  • Is it better to have a large extended family or a small, close-knit one?
  • Should families prioritize spending time together over individual activities?
  • Is it important to have open communication within a family?

Sports and Recreation

  • Should professional athletes be considered role models?
  • Is it fair to pay athletes more than doctors and teachers?
  • Should there be more opportunities for women in sports?
  • Is it important for children to participate in team sports?
  • Should extreme sports be regulated more strictly?
  • Is it better to watch sports live or on television?
  • Should college athletes be paid for their performance?
  • Is it necessary to have gender-specific sports leagues?
  • Should schools invest more in physical education programs?
  • Is it ethical to allow performance-enhancing drugs in sports?

Arts and Entertainment

  • Should art be judged solely on its aesthetic value?
  • Is it important to preserve traditional forms of art?
  • Should public funding be used to support the arts?
  • Is it necessary to separate art from the artist?
  • Should there be more diversity in the film industry?
  • Is it important to protect intellectual property rights in the digital age?
  • Should books be adapted into movies or remain as written?
  • Is it better to experience art in person or through digital mediums?
  • Should graffiti be considered art or vandalism?
  • Is it important to support independent filmmakers and musicians?

Imagination and Creativity

  • Is imagination the key to a fulfilling life, or is practicality more important?
  • Should schools dedicate more time to fostering creativity in students?
  • Is it important for adults to nurture their imagination just as much as children?
  • Should creative pursuits like writing, painting, and music be considered essential to a well-rounded education?
  • Is daydreaming beneficial, or does it distract from productivity?
  • Should companies give employees time to work on imaginative projects unrelated to their job roles?
  • Is it possible for society to advance without imaginative thinkers?
  • Should technology be designed to enhance human creativity rather than replace it?
  • Is creativity more important than knowledge in solving global challenges?
  • Should communities invest in spaces dedicated to encouraging creative expression, like art studios and makerspaces?

Ethics and Morality

  • Should capital punishment be abolished worldwide?
  • Is it ethical to use surveillance technology in public places?
  • Should organ donation be mandatory for all citizens?
  • Is it morally acceptable to lie in certain situations?
  • Should there be global standards for human rights?
  • Is it ethical to profit from charitable work?
  • Should people be allowed to sell their organs?
  • Is it important to always tell the truth?
  • Should animal rights be as important as human rights?
  • Is it ethical to test products on animals?

Fashion and Lifestyle

  • Should fashion trends dictate how we dress?
  • Is it better to buy high-quality clothing that lasts longer?
  • Should fast fashion companies be held accountable for environmental damage?
  • Is it important to support ethical fashion brands?
  • Should people be judged based on their appearance?
  • Is it necessary to follow beauty standards set by society?
  • Should there be more body positivity in the fashion industry?
  • Is it better to dress for comfort or style?
  • Should fashion be considered a form of self-expression?
  • Is it important to buy local and sustainable products?

Economics and Business

  • Should the minimum wage be increased?
  • Is it ethical for companies to outsource labor to other countries?
  • Should there be more regulations on big corporations?
  • Is it important to support small businesses?
  • Should CEOs be held accountable for the actions of their companies?
  • Is it necessary to have a universal basic income?
  • Should companies be required to provide parental leave?
  • Is it fair to allow monopolies in certain industries?
  • Should businesses prioritize profit over social responsibility?
  • Is it important to promote diversity in the workplace?

Science and Exploration

  • Should space exploration be a priority for governments?
  • Is it ethical to clone humans for medical research?
  • Should we invest more in renewable energy research?
  • Is it important to explore the ocean as much as space?
  • Should there be limits on genetic modifications?
  • Is it necessary to fund scientific research with public money?
  • Should scientists be held responsible for the unintended consequences of their discoveries?
  • Is it ethical to experiment on human embryos for scientific research?
  • Should space tourism be accessible to everyone or reserved for the wealthy?
  • Is it important to preserve uncontacted tribes from scientific exploration?
  • Should the government fund missions to explore other planets?
  • Is it ethical to mine resources from other planets or asteroids?
  • Should we focus more on exploring the deep sea than outer space?
  • Is it necessary to continue searching for extraterrestrial life?
  • Should there be stricter regulations on genetic engineering in agriculture?
  • Is it important to preserve endangered species through cloning?

Media and Journalism

  • Should journalists be allowed to protect their sources at all costs?
  • Is it important for media outlets to remain unbiased?
  • Should there be consequences for spreading fake news?
  • Is it ethical for journalists to go undercover to get a story?
  • Should there be more regulations on the portrayal of violence in the media?
  • Is it important to have a free press in every country?
  • Should social media platforms be considered as part of the media?
  • Is it ethical to publish private information about public figures?
  • Should there be stricter laws against paparazzi?
  • Is it important for news outlets to fact-check before publishing?

Global Issues

  • Should wealthy countries do more to help poorer nations?
  • Is it important to reduce global poverty through international aid?
  • Should there be stricter international laws on human trafficking?
  • Is it necessary to address the global water crisis urgently?
  • Should more countries open their borders to refugees?
  • Is it important to address global income inequality?
  • Should there be a global effort to combat climate change?
  • Is it ethical for countries to interfere in the affairs of other nations?
  • Should the United Nations have more power to enforce international laws?
  • Is it necessary to protect indigenous peoples from global development?

Social Media

  • Should children be allowed to have social media accounts?
  • Is it important to limit the use of smartphones in public places?
  • Should there be age restrictions on the use of social media?
  • Is it ethical to use social media data for targeted advertising?
  • Should there be more transparency in how social media platforms use personal data?
  • Is it important for parents to monitor their children’s online activity?
  • Should social media platforms be held responsible for cyberbullying?
  • Is it ethical to ban certain individuals from social media platforms?
  • Should schools teach students about digital literacy?
  • Is it necessary to have laws against online harassment?

Travel and Adventure

  • Should everyone have the opportunity to travel internationally at least once in their life?
  • Is it important to respect local customs and traditions while traveling?
  • Should there be restrictions on tourism in environmentally sensitive areas?
  • Is it better to travel alone or with a group?
  • Should countries invest more in eco-friendly tourism?
  • Is it necessary to learn the local language before visiting a foreign country?
  • Should travel be considered an essential part of education?
  • Is it important to support local businesses while traveling?
  • Should there be more regulations on wildlife tourism?
  • Is it better to experience travel through organized tours or independent exploration?

Cultural and Historical Issues

  • Should historical monuments be preserved even if they represent controversial pasts?
  • Is it important to teach history from multiple perspectives?
  • Should countries repatriate cultural artifacts taken during colonization?
  • Is it ethical to display human remains in museums?
  • Should historical films be required to be historically accurate?
  • Is it important to preserve languages that are on the verge of extinction?
  • Should we celebrate cultural diversity in all aspects of society?
  • Is it necessary to learn about other cultures to be a well-rounded individual?
  • Should schools require students to learn about the history of other countries?
  • Is it important to remember and honor the past, even if it’s painful?

Here is a good video with a few more opinion writing prompts:

Sentence Starters for Opinion Writing

Here are some helpful sentence starters to kick off your opinion writing:

  • “I believe that…”
  • “In my opinion…”
  • “The reason I think this is because…”
  • “One example that supports my opinion is…”
  • “From my perspective…”
  • “It’s clear to me that…”
  • “Another reason I feel this way is…”
  • “Some people might disagree, but I think…”
  • “In conclusion, I believe…”
  • “To sum up my point of view…”

How Teachers Can Use These Opinion Writing Prompts

Teachers can use these opinion writing prompts to help students develop critical thinking, persuasive writing skills, and the ability to articulate their thoughts clearly.

Here are a few strategies:

  • Daily Writing Exercises: Use these prompts as daily writing exercises to help students practice forming and expressing their opinions.
  • Classroom Debates: Select prompts that can be turned into classroom debates, encouraging students to research and defend their positions.
  • Essay Assignments: Assign longer essays based on prompts, allowing students to explore a topic in-depth.
  • Group Discussions: Use prompts to spark group discussions, helping students to hear different perspectives and refine their own arguments.
  • Creative Projects: Encourage students to create multimedia presentations, posters, or videos based on their responses to the prompts.

Sample Rubrics for Opinion Writing

For all the teachers out there, you have a place in my heart, and so I wanted to provide a few rubrics you could use when teaching opinion writing prompts.

3rd Grade Opinion Writing Rubric

Criteria4 – Excellent3 – Good2 – Satisfactory1 – Needs Improvement
Clearly stated and well-developedStated clearly but lacks developmentOpinion is unclear or incompleteOpinion is missing or confusing
Strong reasons with clear examplesGood reasons with some examplesReasons are weak or lack examplesFew or no reasons or examples
Well-organized with logical flowOrganized but may lack flowSome organization but lacks clarityDisorganized or difficult to follow
Clear, correct, and varied languageMostly clear with few errorsSome errors that distract the readerFrequent errors that hinder meaning

4th Grade Opinion Writing Rubric

Criteria4 – Excellent3 – Good2 – Satisfactory1 – Needs Improvement
Clearly articulated and insightfulClearly stated but basicSomewhat clear, needs more insightUnclear or missing opinion statement
Strong, relevant, and persuasiveRelevant but could be strongerLacks depth or relevanceWeak or irrelevant details
Flows logically with strong transitionsGenerally well-organizedSomewhat organized, weak transitionsDisorganized or lacks logical flow
Free of errors and enhances writingFew minor errorsSome errors that need correctionFrequent errors affecting readability

5th-6th Grade Opinion Writing Rubric

Criteria4 – Excellent3 – Good2 – Satisfactory1 – Needs Improvement
Clearly stated and compellingClear but not as compellingPresent but lacks clarityMissing or unclear thesis statement
Strong, logical, and well-supportedGood support but needs more depthArguments are weak or unsupportedLacks coherent arguments or support
Seamless flow with effective transitionsGenerally cohesive but occasional lapsesLacks smooth transitions between ideasDisjointed, hard to follow
Sophisticated and engagingClear with some engagementBasic language, lacks engagementSimplistic or unclear language

Final Thoughts: Opinion Writing Prompts

Remember, the best way to improve your writing is to keep practicing. So, choose a prompt, start writing, and let your voice be heard.

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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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200 Persuasive Essay Topics

January 6, 2024 by Richard Leave a Comment

200 persuasive essay topics

Attention students and writers! Here are 200 persuasive essay topics to get you writing; if you’re looking for a hot-button issue to tackle in your following persuasive essay, this mega list of 200 controversial topics will get you thinking.

Persuasive essays aim to convince readers of a particular perspective on a topic. Rather than a balanced discussion of both sides, a good persuasive essay will make a strong case for one moral, ethical, political, or practical position. The goal is to use logic, evidence, and rhetorical techniques to help readers embrace a new view or take action.

Below, we have compiled 200 of today’s most fiercely debated issues across disciplines. Scan the list for an idea that inspires you to take a stand. These prompts touch on personal values, science, politics, identities, social norms, technology, law, education, health, ethics, and more.

Consider an angle not covered by mainstream media outlets. Survey friends and strangers to find out which issues they care about. Then, craft an evidence-backed argument to convince even skeptical readers.

A strong, persuasive essay will resonate emotionally through narrative elements while backing claims with qualitative or quantitative data. Structure your thesis logically and appeal to shared values. Be sure to address counterarguments without seeming defensive before circling back to the power of your unique perspective on this complex topic.

Get those pages turning with a hooking introduction addressing why this issue urgently requires attention. Offer fresh solutions and inspire your peers to reconsider assumptions. Most importantly, write from an informed position with honesty, conviction, and clarity.

Now, let’s raise some questions, ruffle some feathers, and change some minds! Here are 200 thought-provoking essay prompts on today’s most divisive debates:

Here are 200 persuasive essay topics:

  • Schools should eliminate standardized testing.
  • Smoking should be banned in all public places.
  • Zoos should be shut down.
  • Social media has a negative impact on mental health.
  • College athletes should be paid.
  • College tuition costs too much and should be lowered.
  • Vaccines should be mandatory.
  • School uniforms should be required.
  • Junk food advertising should be banned.
  • All schools should implement anti-bullying programs.
  • Islands and coastal areas need better protection from rising sea levels.
  • Recycling should be mandatory by law.
  • Gun control laws need to be more strict and regulated.
  • Minimum wage should be raised to help the working poor.
  • Art and music classes are crucial for child development.
  • Fast food restaurants should post nutrition information.
  • Social networks have led to isolation rather than human connection.
  • Local governments should do more to curb littering in public spaces.
  • There should be limits on advertising during children’s programming.
  • All students should receive basic financial education.
  • Pet stores should only be allowed to sell animals from shelters and rescues.
  • All religions should enjoy tax-exempt status.
  • Student loan debt is a major economic crisis that needs solutions.
  • Hollywood perpetuates harmful stereotypes.
  • Celebrities should use social media responsibly and avoid bad influences on youth.
  • Professional athletes are overpaid.
  • Child beauty pageants should be banned.
  • Homework assignments should be banned.
  • Technology makes people waste too much time.
  • Television does more harm than good.
  • Cosmetic animal testing should be illegal.
  • Whaling should remain illegal.
  • The electoral college should be abolished.
  • Chocolate is good for health.
  • Students should not have to wear school uniforms.
  • Adults must do more to curb cyberbullying.
  • Herbal medicine offers just as much healing as modern medicine.
  • Mandatory retirement ages should be abolished.
  • Circuses with live animals should be outlawed.
  • Boxing should be banned.
  • Parents should talk to kids about drugs at a young age.
  • Marijuana should be legalized.
  • The drinking age should be lowered to 18.
  • Assisted suicide should be legal and regulated.
  • Single-use plastics need to be banned globally.
  • Contact sports can be too dangerous for teenage participation.
  • GMOs do more good than harm.
  • Vegan diets provide optimal human health.
  • Abortion rights must be protected.
  • Books have more value than movies adapted from them.
  • Classical art education should be required in schools.
  • Children under 16 should be banned from social media.
  • Prenatal testing should be more widely accessible.
  • Cloning endangered species can save them from extinction.
  • Student evaluations of professors for tenure review create bias and should be abolished.
  • Online privacy is a universal human right and needs more protection.
  • Documentaries have more educational value than fictional films.
  • Hunting purely for sport should be outlawed.
  • Term limits for all politicians would improve governance.
  • High deductible health plans deter people from seeking needed care.
  • University endowments should be taxed if costs are not lowered for families.
  • Factory farming is ethically wrong.
  • Insider trading by members of Congress should be illegal.
  • Internet censorship threatens open debate and truth.
  • Texting while driving should be entirely outlawed across the U.S.
  • For-profit colleges often take advantage of students.
  • Exotic animal markets should be shut down globally to prevent future pandemics.
  • Global governments need to further restrict private space exploration to protect planets for scientific purposes.
  • Military spending priorities are misplaced.
  • Driverless cars will create more harm than good.
  • Standardized creative arts instruction will deprive future generations of innovation.
  • Space exploration budgets should be increased.
  • The news media creates polarization and partisanship.
  • Referendums undermine representative democracy.
  • Ranked choice voting is the most democratic election process.
  • Independent redistricting can reduce political polarization.
  • Campaign finance laws fail to prevent donor corruption.
  • Governments compromise civil liberties too often citing security concerns.
  • Access to clean water is a basic human right.
  • Affordable housing solutions remain insufficient in many major cities.
  • The war on drugs creates more harm than drug use itself.
  • Mandatory minimum sentences for nonviolent offenses are unjust.
  • Freedom of speech should not protect harmful disinformation.
  • Affirmative action remains necessary to promote diversity and equality.
  • Background checks before gun purchases must be universal.
  • Police brutality reforms have failed to prevent discrimination and misconduct.
  • Banning plastic grocery bags better protects wildlife and environments.
  • High-speed rail would modernize U.S. infrastructure.
  • Caps on interest rates prevent predatory lending.
  • The U.S. government spends too much on border enforcement and neglects compassionate immigration reform.
  • Wearable fitness trackers improve individual health choices.
  • Self-driving vehicles will never be flawless and accidents are inevitable.
  • Artificial intelligence poses catastrophic threats if not regulated by international governance.
  • Standardized test scores are a poor indicator of effective teaching.
  • Tuition-free college makes education accessible for all.
  • Reparations should be paid to the descendants of enslaved people.
  • Drug addiction deserves humane treatment instead of punishment.
  • Animal captivity for entertainment is always unethical.
  • Cryptocurrency threatens economic stability.
  • Social media filters promote conformity and undermine self-esteem.
  • All police officers should be required to wear body cameras.
  • Drones pose threats to privacy and security.
  • Testing cosmetics on animals should be illegal.
  • Year-round schooling is more effective than summer breaks.
  • All religions deserve equal protection under separation of church and state.
  • Industrial livestock farms pose great risks to human health and the environment.
  • Space tourism will further income inequality globally.
  • Legal drinking ages should be consistent across all democratic societies.
  • Censorship laws often serve governments over citizens.
  • The rapid acceleration of technology threatens labor markets and economic mobility for working classes.
  • Affordable pharmaceutical access remains out of reach for developing nations in crisis.
  • Social media platforms spread misinformation without accountability.
  • Polarized news coverage undermines balanced voter education on issues.
  • Unpaid internships exploit student labor and block professional access for less privileged groups.
  • Over prescription of pain medication fueled the opioid crisis across economic classes.
  • Eliminating food deserts improves public health in poor communities.
  • For-profit bail systems criminalize poverty and must be reformed.
  • Educational curriculum reform is necessary to encourage critical thinking over rote acceptance.
  • Organic farming is safer and more sustainable than reliance on GMOs and pesticides.
  • Offshore tax havens cost governments essential revenue to address pressing social problems.
  • Standardized education cannot address the needs of neurodiverse minds.
  • Popular entertainment romanticizes dangerous relationships.
  • CEOS earn too much compared to average workers at their companies.
  • Unpaid collegiate athletes deserve fair compensation and benefits.
  • Consumer culture values material possessions over human needs.
  • Reality television rarely reflects daily life and promotes shallow aspirations.
  • Legal reform is necessary to provide transgender people basic human rights.
  • Gerrymandering undermines representative democracy.
  • Social media apps can be too addictive given manipulated algorithms.
  • Fashion advertising promotes unhealthy and unrealistic beauty standards.
  • Standardized testing disadvantages minority and low-income students.
  • Unregulated technology monopolies stifle innovation and competition.
  • Electronic voting systems lack sufficient security against hacking and fraud.
  • Predatory lending solutions remain insufficient to protect military families.
  • Fossil fuel dependence aggravates global climate injustice.
  • Western media thrives on racist caricatures and stereotypes when depicting other cultures.
  • Solitary confinement constitutes torture and should be banned.
  • Government surveillance threatens personal privacy.
  • Voter ID laws often intentionally target marginalized groups.
  • Current libel laws impose unreasonable burdens on press freedom and public figures.
  • Trigger warnings promote valuable discourse around traumatic cultural history.
  • Criminal justice reform depends on abolishing private prisons motivated by profit over ethics.
  • Anti-homeless architecture in urban areas is cruel and exclusionary.
  • Decriminalizing sex work protects vulnerable people from workplace dangers of an unregulated industry.
  • Defunding police forces holds great promise to reduce community violence if combined with strong social services.
  • Affirmative action promotes equitable access to higher education and should be defended.
  • Standardized test scores disadvantage talented minority applicants with fewer preparatory resources.
  • Unpaid prison labor constitutes modern slavery and fuels mass incarceration.
  • Legacy admissions preserve class privileges rather than providing equal opportunities.
  • Mainstream environmental movements often ignore poor communities of color most impacted by pollution.
  • Gentrification destroys community heritage and displaces vulnerable residents.
  • Nonviolent drug offenses deserve public health solutions instead of severe sentencing.
  • Medical misinformation laws often limit patient autonomy and access.
  • Parental leave policies must apply equally to men and women to achieve gender equity at home and work.
  • Expensive cancer drugs often provide little additional survival benefits.
  • Student lunch debt collections criminalize poverty in public education.
  • Civil asset forfeiture incentivizes unchecked seizures by police departments.
  • Felony disenfranchisement laws disproportionately impact minorities.
  • Forced arbitration protects corporations over defrauded individuals unable to join class action lawsuits.
  • Conversion therapy should be strictly prohibited for vulnerable LGBTQ+ youth.
  • Comprehensive immigration reform promises widespread economic benefits.
  • Restorative justice programs work better than punitive policies focused on punishment alone.
  • College athletes need additional health protections and medical coverage for sports injuries.
  • For-profit colleges often exploit vulnerable minority students with dishonest marketing and inferior education services.
  • Unregulated plastic surgery clinics endanger patients.
  • Beloved public library systems require increased funding to serve communities.
  • Abolishing the tipped minimum wage will reduce pay disparities in the restaurant industry, especially for women.
  • Chronic homelessness remains overlooked and underfunded amidst rising inequality in American cities.
  • Stricter fugitive slave clause enforcement perpetuates racism in the prison industrial complex.
  • Tax prep companies like TurboTax manipulate laws against simple IRS filing to profit from poverty.
  • Mandated paid family leave protects new parents and caregivers struggling to balance professional and personal demands.
  • CEO charity gifts allow tax breaks despite being minute fractions of their total wealth and income.
  • The Electoral college creates unequal voting power across states in presidential elections.
  • Ethnic studies programs empower marginalized student identities and improve educational outcomes.
  • True reparations to Black Americans require comprehensive policies addressing persistent economic and social inequities inherited from slavery and institutional racism over generations.
  • Public investment strategies like a Green New Deal promise enormous job growth and sustainable prosperity.
  • Corporate political donations and lobbying divert politicians from prioritizing the public good.
  • Whistleblower protections remain critically necessary but insufficient in both governments and companies.
  • Social security requires increased funding to remain solvent as aging populations retire.
  • Predatory mortgage loans deliberately target racial minority communities.
  • Exploitative noncompetitive agreements limit economic mobility for struggling workers.
  • Civil liberties curtailed by counterterrorism policies institutionalize religious discrimination.
  • Vaccine misinformation and irrational skepticism extend preventable deadly diseases.
  • Tax cuts for the extremely wealthy fail to trickle down or provide broad public benefits.
  • Irrational voucher programs undermine public K-12 education systems.
  • Social media echo chambers divide public consensus on scientific issues like climate change.
  • Asian American discrimination persists in college admissions despite higher test scores and academic achievements.
  • Welfare fraud fears burden vulnerable families in crisis much more than overpayments.
  • Free college tuition expands economic opportunities for talented students locked out based on income alone.
  • Anonymous egg/sperm donor laws deny children rights to critical medical histories.
  • Defective medical devices require stronger pre-market safety testing and post-market surveillance to protect patients from hidden risks.
  • FDA clinical trials rarely emphasize participant diversity or structural inequities allowing dangerous treatment biases against minorities.
  • Charging overhead boarding for essential mobility devices unfairly burdens disabled travelers.
  • Luxury real estate routinely excludes affordable units mandated for equitable development.
  • Public education curriculum lacks sufficient LGBTQ+ representation and inclusion efforts.
  • Homeless LGBTQ+ youth need dedicated shelter services and legal protections from exploitation.
  • Transgender athletes encounter enough youth bullying without blanket sports participation bans rooted in prejudice rather than facts.
  • Conversion therapy for LGBTQ+ people creates severe trauma, especially for involuntary adolescent victims lacking rights to refuse.
  • Companies claiming Pride support engage in hollow branding without meaningful nonprofit partnerships or workplace policy reforms to hire/support LGBTQ+ employees year-round.
  • Same-sex couple adoption rights require legal protections to prevent welfare discrimination against children.

There you have it – 200 controversial essay prompts on issues ranging from education reform to civil rights to technology regulation. With such a vast array of debates currently shaping our social climate, you’re bound to find multiple topics that inspire strong personal convictions worthy of a passionate argument.

Take your time to carefully determine which position to argue after reflecting deeply on both sides. Craft an outline, organizing claims, evidence, and counterarguments before writing a clear, logical essay. Use this opportunity to elevate the discourse with nuanced reasoning instead of reactionary talking points. Structure paragraphs deliberately, interweave relevant anecdotes, and conclude with a resonant call to action.

Regardless of which prompt you choose, research thoroughly and ensure sources are credible experts. And remember – a persuasive essay’s job is not to definitively settle these complex issues but to encourage readers to reexamine assumptions. Your writing could positively impact society by contributing an informed perspective to necessary conversations influencing real-world change if done thoughtfully. We have more writing tips on our site . Leave us a comment if you enjoyed or used this list. 

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About Richard

Richard Everywriter (pen name) has worked for literary magazines and literary websites for the last 25 years. He holds degrees in Writing, Journalism, Technology and Education. Richard has headed many writing workshops and courses, and he has taught writing and literature for the last 20 years.  

In writing and publishing he has worked with independent, small, medium and large publishers for years connecting publishers to authors. He has also worked as a journalist and editor in both magazine, newspaper and trade publications as well as in the medical publishing industry.   Follow him on Twitter, and check out our Submissions page .

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23 Persuasive writing Topics for High School students

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Persuasive Writing Topics for High School Students

Writing a persuasive essay can be difficult for teachers and students if you don’t have a great idea to help get those creative juices flowing.  These prompts cover a range of issues and topics that are pertinent to middle school and high school students and can be easily adapted to work with a topic you have been teaching in your own class.

Students really enjoy the opportunity to try and change the world in which they live, and hopefully, these prompts might be a great starting point.

Remember that if you are looking for more excellent free resources and structured guides to teach all aspects of English, especially writing, be sure to visit literacyideas.com and check out our vast collection of prompts here.

Year Long Inference Based Writing Activities

Visual Writing Prompts

Tap into the power of imagery in your classroom to master INFERENCE as AUTHORS and CRITICAL THINKERS .

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This YEAR-LONG 500+ PAGE unit is packed with robust opportunities for your students to develop the critical skill of inference through fun imagery, powerful thinking tools, and graphic organizers.

 TOP PERSUASIVE WRITING TOPICS

  • Some parents give children a weekly or monthly allowance regardless of their behavior because they believe an allowance teaches children to be financially responsible. Other parents only give children an allowance as a reward for completing chores or when they have behaved properly. Explain what you think parents should do and why.
  • Many schools now require teenagers to spend a certain number of hours each term doing volunteer work or community service. Some people believe this is an excellent idea as it promotes good citizenship and cultivates compassion. Others feel that forced volunteerism is not volunteering at all. How do you feel about this issue? Use specific reasons and examples to support your position.
  • Some parts of the world allow people to get a driver’s license at age sixteen. Many feel this age is much too young for the responsibility that comes with driving a car and that teenagers should not be allowed to drive until the age of 18. In your opinion, at what age should people be allowed to drive, and why?
  • What is your all-time favorite book or movie and why? Write an essay persuading readers to watch this film or read this book.
  • Have you ever made a life changing action that has had a positive effect on you or the lives of others? Write an essay that convinces readers to make a change for the better.
  • You have been asked to write a letter that would convince a organizers of a major event to be hosted in your hometown. Write an essay that convinces these delegates that your town would be great host.
  • Top professional athletes often have salaries and bonuses in the tens of millions of dollars. Do you think these athletes deserve this type of income? Why or why not? Explain your position and use specific reasons and examples.
  • Humans have always wondered about the possibility of life on other planets in the universe. Do you believe extraterrestrial life exists? Write an essay persuading others to share your point of view .
  • If someone discovered the ‘Elixir of life’ that would enable us to live forever, would it be a blessing or a curse? Use specific reasons and examples to support your answer.
  • If you have you ever traveled to a place that you found very meaningful and rewarding? Write an essay that persuades others to visit this important place.
  • Nearly all private schools require students to wear uniforms. Should public school students wear uniforms too? Argue for or against school uniforms for public school students. Use specific reasons and examples to support your position.
  • You are to select one item from the twenty-first century to place in a time capsule for future generations, what would you choose? Use specific reasons and examples to support your choice, explaining both the item’s significance and the reasons why it embodies the culture of the early twenty-first century.
  • What would improve your town or city? Write an essay convincing officials to make a change that would improve your neighborhood.
  • Some studies have shown students often perform better on exams if music is played softly in the background. However, some students may find the music distracting. Should schools play classical music during exams and/or allow students to listen to headphones whilst working? Take a position and explain your answer.
  • Should parents be a child’s disciplinarian, or their best friend?
  • Take a position and explain your answer using specific reasons and examples.
  • Millions of people visit zoos around the world. But some people believe that zoos are inhumane and that animals should not be kept in captivity. Do you agree? Why or why not? Use specific reasons and examples to support your position.
  • In most countries people pay taxes based upon how much they earn: the higher their income, the higher the percentage of that income they must pay in taxes. Many people argue that a flat tax, in which everyone pays the same rate regardless of income, would be a more equitable and desirable tax system. Which of these two tax systems do you think is best, and why? Use specific reasons and examples to support your answer.
  • Is it wise to devote time and money to building a space station on the moon or Mars? Why or why not? Explain your answer.
  • An ancient Greek proverb states, “All things good to know are difficult to learn.” Do you agree? Why or why not? Use specific reasons and examples to explain your answer.
  • Imagine that you know someone who is unfamiliar with computers and has never been on the Internet. Write an essay convincing this relative to get a computer and get online.
  • Imagine that you have made it to the final round of interviews for your dream job. Convince your prospective employers that you are the one who most deserves the position.
  • Is there something that you believe is truly worth fighting for? Write an essay persuading others that this cause is worth a fight.

If you have any other great ideas for persuasive prompts please post them in the comments section below. 

A COMPLETE TEACHING UNIT ON PERSUASIVE WRITING SKILLS

Persuasive Writing Topics, essay, essay writing, prompts | opinion writing unit 1 | 23 Persuasive writing Topics for High School students | literacyideas.com

Teach your students to produce writing that  PERSUADES  and  INFLUENCES  thinking with this  HUGE  writing guide bundle covering: ⭐ Persuasive Texts / Essays ⭐ Expository Essays⭐ Argumentative Essays⭐ Discussions.

A complete 140 PAGE unit of work on persuasive texts for teachers and students. No preparation is required.

Summer Boarding Courses

100 Persuasive Writing Prompts for Writers aged 8 to 18

femal-student-persuasive-writing

Being able to state your ideas and offer evidence for your arguments is an excellent skill to have! If you can convince people that you are right, you will be able to achieve so much more within your job, with your friends and new people that you meet.

Persuasive writing is about trying to get the reader to agree with your opinion or ideas. To be able to express what you want and what you believe to be true, we at Summer Boarding Courses have put together these 100 persuasive writing prompts to help you exercise your tactics!

Persuasive Writing Prompts for Writers

We have 25 fun writing prompts for each age group below that we teach at Summer Boarding Courses in the UK.

Present your arguments like a pro, build upon your critical thinking skills and communicate seamlessly through your writing with these opinion writing prompts.

But first, before you begin to write, you must consider the following…

Which audience are you trying to persuade?

Who are your trying to persuade? Is it your friends, your teachers, the manager of a company or the whole community that you live within? Different groups of people have different wishes, ideas, needs and wants. Think carefully about what appeals to the group you are trying to convince.

For example, if you are student arguing that school break times should be longer to your student friends, they may be easier to persuade than the teachers!

Students love to hang out with their friends, go outside, do sport and eat delicious food.

However, if you are trying to convince the teachers at your school that break times should be longer, they may feel stressed and unsure about this. They have lessons that they need to deliver to you, work goals to meet, and your education and learning is at the forefront of their minds.

If you can convince them that you can complete your learning is less time, they might just agree that longer break times are a good idea!

Always try and appeal to each person’s perspective so that you can convince as best as you can.

male-student-writing-on-whiteboard.j

Be kind and respectful

We can all have different ideas about what is right, wrong, correct and unusual. Be respectful and kind when arguing in your speech or writing about what you are standing for. We are all entitled to our opinion, and for many issues, there are pros and cons for each side that we take.

Here are some key phrases that you can use to help yourself get your point across clearly and politely:

‘In my opinion…’

‘I feel that…’

‘Others must agree that…’

‘It seems to me that…’

‘Some people believe that…’

‘For this reason…’

‘I agree that…’

‘On the other hand…’

Firstly…Secondly….’

two-female-students-in-english-class

Introduce your argument in the first paragraph

Start your piece with an introductory paragraph that states your argument. This paragraph will clearly tell the reader what your opinion is and what you are standing for.

Support your argument with at least three pieces of evidence

Most people will not be convinced of your ideas unless you can show them evidence. This evidence can be qualitative or quantitative.

Qualitative evidence

Qualitative evidence is descriptive information that can come from a personal story, an interview, a drawing or a photograph. You can find this information from personally talking to people about their experiences.

Quantitative evidence

Quantitative evidence is about numbers, statistics and concrete data. This information can come from surveys, official records and experiments which carefully follow methods to try and ensure accurate information. Many people prefer to see quantitative evidence, as personal stories collected for qualitative evidence can sometimes be inaccurate.

Show that you understand the different sides to your argument

A clear and coherent writer who is putting their argument forward will have taken the time to consider other points of view different to their own. Show the reader that you understand and can see what else people may argue. Try and have a good answer back to these thoughts.

If you have evidence to support your counterargument, even better!

Ask questions

Ask your reader questions to get them to think about what you are arguing. This way, you can challenge their point of view.

They will start thinking about other perspectives that they may not have considered before.

If you’re stuck: think about a time where you did convince someone

Has there been a time in the past where you did successfully manage to persuade someone to see your point of view? Think about this time carefully.

How did you manage to convince the person? What strategies and language did you use?

Has there been a time where you were persuaded by someone?

Channel these techniques into your writing to put forward the best argument you can.

group-summer-school-students-watching-tutor.

Finish your argument with a strong closing statement

Summarise your ideas and reinforce your argument so that readers are reminded about why your argument is valid. This is your last chance to sway their opinion!

Find below our 100 essay writing prompts to help you practice your persuasive skills.

25 Persuasive Young Kids Writing Prompts

Are you looking for 4th grade and 5th grade writing prompts? Or prompts for ages a little younger or older for kids? Here are our 20 writing persuasive prompts for students aged 8 to 12!

I should be able to go to bed when I want.

All classrooms should have a class pet.

There needs to a be a non-school uniform day every week.

You can only eat apples or oranges for the next week. Which one will you eat? Why?

I should be allowed to stay home alone.

There should be no homework at school.

Break times at school should be longer.

People should be fined for dropping litter.

I should be allowed to eat ice cream every day.

All students should learn how to cook.

Persuade your family to let you open a birthday present the day before your birthday.

Persuade your family to give you twice as much pocket money.

If you could have any pet, what would it be? Convince your family why you should care for it.

Convince your friend to swap their packed lunch with yours.

Students should be allowed to pick their own seats in class.

Persuade your family to watch the film you want to watch.

Dogs are better than cats.

School holidays should be longer.

Imagine in the future, you can live on land or underwater. Which one would you choose? Why?

You have to live in another country. Which one do you choose? Why?

Convince your family to let you watch your favourite TV programme.

Students should be allowed to choose their teacher.

Students should have 3-day weekends.

You can only play one sport for the next month. What is it? Why?

Students who are late to school should do a chore for their class.

You can choose one superhero power to help others: fly or stop time. Which one do you choose? Why?

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Find out more about how we can help you with your ESL writing, speaking, listening and reading.

25 Prompts for Persuasive Writing for Older Kids

Here are 25 writing persuasive prompts for students aged 11 to 15. If you’re looking for 7th grade and 8th grade writing prompts particularly, these are for you!

Mobile phones should be allowed to be used in the classroom.

It should be made mandatory to eat vegetables every day at school.

The school day should start later and end later in the day.

There should be a computer game room at school.

All students should learn at least 2 languages in school.

Students should be able to wear whatever they want at school.

Students should be taught only how to type; not write with pen and paper.

The first lesson of school every day should be exercise.

Facebook states that you must be at least 13 years old to have a Facebook account. Is this fair?

Persuade your brother/sister to do your house chores for one week.

Smoking should be banned in all public areas.

Teachers must wear a uniform to school. What is the uniform? Why?

Family should only give pocket money if chores are completed.

Persuade your teacher to let you eat your favourite snacks in class.

We should all learn how to grow our own fruit and vegetables.

Persuade your family to take you on holiday to a destination you want to go to.

Persuade your friend who doesn’t like sports to play your favourite sport with you.

Fast food like chips and pizza should be served everyday in the school canteen. Yes or no?

Persuade your family to let you stay at your friend’s house.

Teachers should not be allowed to have their cell phone in the classroom.

There should be one day per week where the whole nation must be vegetarian.

Fizzy drinks should be banned from school.

Students should be paid for getting good grades.

Is it better to have enough money, or too much money?

I should decide what time my bedtime is.

Headington-summer-school-students-in-geogrpahy-lesson

25 Ideas for Argumentative Writing Prompts for Teenagers

These writing prompts are great for students aged 13 to 16!

Teenagers should not do any chores at home.

All students should teach one lesson to their class each term.

Students should be allowed to use their mobile phones at any time in school.

All students should volunteer in their community once every week.

Persuade your friend to help you with your homework.

Imagine you can create a new class to be taught in your school. What subject would it be? Why should it be taught?

Students who commit cyber-bullying should be suspended from school. Yes or no? Why?

The voting age should be lowered to age 13.

Persuade your teacher to have their lessons outside in the Summer.

Persuade your family to let you redecorate your bedroom.

Imagine that you have been granted a ticket to live on Mars. If you go, you are not allowed to come back to Earth. Would you go? Why?

Textbooks should be replaced by tablets or e-readers.

Persuade your teacher to end their class 10 minutes early.

Persuade your teacher to let your class have a party.

Imagine that you are given 1 million pounds to improve your neighbourhood. What would you do with the money? Why are your ideas the right thing to do?

Persuade your teacher to not set your class homework for the next month.

Everyone under the age of 17 should have to stay in after 9pm.

People should only be allowed to drive their cars 4 days a week to minimise pollution.

Country life is better than city life.

All students should be allowed to study abroad once per year.

Teenagers under the age of 15 should not be allowed to have a Facebook page.

The internet should be free for everyone.

Everyone should eat vegan food one day per week.

All school classes should be outdoors in the forest.

25 Young Adult Persuasive Essay Prompts

These quick writing prompts for students aged 15 to 17 will have you scribbling away to get your point across!

All students should learn how to make YouTube videos.

People should pay extra tax when they buy drinks in plastic bottles.

Humans are living longer, to the point where we may become immortal in the future. Would living forever be a good? Argue your point of view.

Students should be allowed to listen to their own music on headphones when working in class. Argue your viewpoint.

Teenagers around the world should not be allowed to drive until they are 18.

You have been given money to hold a major event in your hometown. What would the event be about or for? Why should people come?

Imagine you want to be the next president of your country. Why should people vote for you?

Convince your friend to lend you something special of theirs.

Persuade your family to let you study overseas at a Summer School next year.

Imagine that you have been given the chance to interview for your dream job. Convince the boss that you are the person they should choose.

Persuade your family to watch a movie on Netflix that you want to watch.

You have just started a new business making a phone better than the iPhone. Explain what features your phone has, that makes it much better than Apple’s.

Persuade a friend to come to a new activity group with you that they are feeling anxious about.

Aliens exist. True or false? Argue your point of view.

All young adults should be required by law to volunteer in their community once every week. Yes or no?

Mathematics class is more important than music class. Yes or no? Why?

City life is better than country life.

Driving tests should be mandatory every year after you are 65 years old.

Students who bully others should be suspended from school.

There should be one currency for the whole world.

Recycling should be a legal requirement for every household.

Life is better than it was 10 years ago.

Girls and boys should study separately in school.

You can choose to put one celebrity on your country’s highest-value banknote. Who is the celebrity? Why should they be placed on the note?

Life is better without a computer.

Are you ready to improve your persuasive writing?

We hope you have enjoyed these free writing prompts! This is your chance to change the world in which we live through your thoughts!

If you want to work on your writing in English, try and aim to make these your daily writing prompts! We also recommend using pictures as writing prompts. Looking at pictures with writing prompts, rather than just seeing a sentence, can help you create your arguments and ideas if you are a  visual learner .

Want more inspiration for your next writing tasks? If so, explore our rundown of the best books for essay writing.

Or, if you are ready to fully immerse yourself in a thriving and educational setting, come and study with us this Summer!

At Summer Boarding Courses, we run many courses for all international students aged 8 to 17 years old and would love for you to join us. We can help you improve your ESL writing as well as your English speaking, listening and reading skills with many other nationalities.

  • Essay Editor

How to Write a Prompt for Essays: A Complete Guide

How to Write a Prompt for Essays: A Complete Guide

Writing essays isn’t easy. Even if you decide to use the help of generative AI, you need to think of a good writing prompt. Today, you will learn how to create a prompt as well as why we need prompts for writing with generative models.

What is a prompt?

A prompt is a command you give to an AI generator. It includes instructions on the topic of a text, its style, tone, and other important features. The generative model analyzes your command and prepares an answer based on preexisting rules and patterns that it learned while training. 

Prompts for writing are the key to getting high-quality responses from artificial intelligence generators. By learning how to create a prompt for AI, you can guarantee better results of your collaboration with the advanced technology.

How to create a prompt for AI: secret techniques

It might seem like creating prompts for writing is simple. However, if you use text generators often, you know that getting a non-generic response can be a hassle. So it’s imperative to read the following tutorial on how to create a prompt and learn secret rules that make artificial intelligence obey all commands.

Step 1. Conduct a research

This might seem redundant to you, but the lack of research into a topic makes your prompt too generic. It is important to understand all the angles for covering in your essay in order to develop a comprehensive command.

Luckily, you can use artificial intelligence here, too. Ask a generator to make a plan for your essay, and you will be able to see a rough list of the subjects for studying. This is not exhaustive, of course, but it will direct you to topics that will help to better outline the essay.

Step 2. Make an essay plan 

When you need a brief answer to a general question, you might feed the generator a simple writing prompt. However, when working with essays, articles, or other longer texts, you need to take a considerate approach to receive extensive responses.

Use your research to plan each paragraph of a paper. You will need this to organize the sequence and contents of your requests.

Step 3. Determine the type of a writing prompt

Depending on the type of your assignment, you will have to follow a particular argumentation style. This will also impact the way your commands are worded. Here are the main types of prompts to use in essays.

  • Informational . This type focuses on collecting data on a certain topic. In response to these prompts, the generative model will present information in an unbiased, factual way. It can be used when gathering facts for informative essays. Example: “explain how snowflakes are formed.”
  • Comparative . Comparative questions make your generator contrast several items. This type is particularly useful for compare and contrast essays, but can also be applied in argumentative essays. Example: “compare wind turbines and thermal plants.”
  • Analytical . These requests are used to make the artificial intelligence analyze certain data. They are useful for creating analytical papers and problem solution essays. Example: “analyze the effects of overconsumption on the environment.”
  • Persuasive . Persuasive writing prompts make AI give you responses that are more biased in nature. They are useful for argumentative and persuasive papers when your task is to convince the audience to accept a certain point of view. Example: “describe why ocean exploration is more important than space exploration”
  • Instructional . These commands are used when you need to give direct and more technical requests. They are often applied when you want to check your texts for grammar mistakes or reword a certain phrase. Example: “organize the references in MLA format.”

Most of the time, you will have to combine several types into one prompt for a clear and original response, so selecting your requests in advance will help you to form a good request.

Step 4. Write your prompt

This final stage deals with creating prompts for writing. However, first, you need to learn about compulsory elements all prompts must include:

  • instruction , or a command that tells the generator what it needs to perform;
  • context , or additional information that the generator should base its response on;
  • purpose , or the goal of the request and specifications, like target audience, essay type, stylistic requirements, etc.;
  • example (optional), or sample text that artificial intelligence will emulate in style, narration, etc.

Example: “In the context of renewable energy development, describe the advantages and disadvantages of solar versus wind power. Write a persuasive text meant to convince the general audience that solar power is more sustainable. The text must comply with Chicago style and include three arguments and one counter argument.”

These are the main elements that comprise prompts for writing essays. Use them in your works and compare the results with what you used to get before.

Try your prompt writing skills on Aithor

With this guide, you have now mastered the art of how to create a prompt for AI. Go ahead and try your new knowledge with Aithor, an artificial intelligence generator designed specifically to assist students with academic writing. Whether you want to build a new prompt from scratch or generate free write prompts as an example, Aithor is here to help you get started.

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Unlock Persuasive Writing with Persuasion Maps

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Have you ever found yourself staring at a blank page, struggling to organize your thoughts for a crucial presentation or a compelling essay? We’ve all been there. Whether you’re a student trying to ace that debate class, a professional aiming to win over clients, or an activist hoping to inspire change, the art of persuasion can sometimes feel like an elusive skill.

Enter the persuasion map – your new secret weapon in the world of convincing communication. Think of it as a GPS for your ideas, guiding you from your main argument to a powerful conclusion, with pit stops at well-supported reasons along the way. It’s like having a personal coach for your thoughts, helping you avoid those pesky logical dead-ends and keeping you on the path to a rock-solid argument.

In this guide, we’re going to explore how this simple yet powerful tool can transform your approach to persuasive writing and speaking. Whether you’re a novice looking to build confidence or a seasoned communicator seeking to sharpen your skills, get ready to discover how persuasion maps can be your ticket to more impactful, influential, and inspiring communication.

What is a Persuasion Map?

A Persuasion Map is an interactive tool designed to help individuals structure their arguments logically for essays, speeches, or debates. It serves as a graphic organizer, allowing users to map out their main thesis, supporting reasons, and evidence clearly and coherently. By visualizing arguments in a structured format, a persuasion map helps ensure that each point is logically connected and well-supported.

Historically and practically significant in various fields, persuasion maps enhance clarity and logical flow, making them invaluable in both academic and professional contexts. Whether you are a student crafting a persuasive essay, a business professional preparing a compelling presentation, or a programmer outlining a project proposal, a persuasion map simplifies the construction of your arguments. This tool aids in avoiding logical fallacies and helps in presenting a well-founded, convincing argument by

Streamlining the process of argument construction by connecting reasons and supporting evidence in a logical manner.

Aids in the creation of clear, structured thinking, ensuring each point is effectively communicated.

Enhances overall clarity, making the final output more organized and reliable.

For a comprehensive rundown on the uses and benefits of persuasion maps, check out our persuasion map templates .

  • Ready to use
  • Fully customizable template
  • Get Started in seconds

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Why You Need Persuasion Maps To Make Your Writing More Persuasive

Persuasive writing is a crucial skill that spans a multitude of domains, offering immense benefits and driving substantial impact. Utilizing a persuasion map tool can significantly enhance this skill. Here are some pivotal reasons why persuasive writing is essential:

Driving Business Success: Persuasive writing in the business realm often translates to compelling proposals, convincing presentations, and effective marketing strategies. It enables professionals to articulate their value propositions clearly, fostering improved sales and stronger client relationships.

Catalyzing Social and Political Change: Historically, persuasive writing has been a cornerstone of social movements and political reforms. It equips individuals with the power to influence public opinion, advocate for policies, and drive activism. Notable examples include landmark speeches and influential essays that have shaped societal norms and legislation.

Shaping Cultural Movements: Persuasive writing in literature, media, and art plays a significant role in shaping cultural narratives and public perception. It allows writers and creators to challenge existing paradigms, promote cultural awareness, and foster appreciation for diverse perspectives.

Power to Influence and Inspire: On a personal level, persuasive writing empowers individuals to express their thoughts compellingly, whether in professional emails, academic papers, or social media posts. It inspires and motivates audiences, driving engagement and action.

Incorporating a persuasion map can simplify the process of crafting persuasive content by providing a structured framework that emphasizes logical argumentation and coherent thought flow. This tool aligns with the professional and academic needs of users by enhancing clarity, organization, and reliability in their writing.

Types of Persuasion Maps

Persuasion maps are dynamic tools that play a crucial role in structuring arguments effectively. There are several types of persuasion maps, each catering to specific needs and use cases. Understanding these different types can help you choose the right one for your task. Here’s an overview of three popular forms:

Three-Reason Persuasion Map

A Three-Reason Persuasion Map is commonly used in academic settings such as essays and debates. It enables students to clearly outline their main argument and support it with three solid reasons. Each reason is backed by relevant facts or examples, helping to build a coherent and persuasive narrative.For instance, a student arguing for the benefits of school uniforms might list improved student behavior, enhanced sense of community, and cost savings as the three main reasons.

Concept Persuasion Map

The Concept Persuasion Map is designed to connect various subject concepts and knowledge points, making it ideal for educational purposes. It helps users remember and understand complex ideas by linking them with supporting definitions and evidence. This type of persuasion map is particularly useful for subjects that require deep understanding and connections between different concepts. Consider an educator explaining the importance of renewable energy; they could use a concept persuasion map to connect different energy sources, their benefits, and how they collectively contribute to environmental sustainability. This enables a deeper understanding and retention of complex subject matter.

Project Performance Map

The Project Performance Map is a valuable tool for business professionals. It illustrates the factors affecting a project’s performance, such as key reasons, risk factors, and necessary actions. This type of map can help project leaders effectively plan and launch tasks, ensuring that all critical elements are considered and addressed. For instance, a project manager might use this map to illustrate how resource allocation, time management, and team collaboration contribute to the successful completion of a project. This type of mapping aids in identifying bottlenecks and improving overall project execution.

Utilizing these different types of persuasion maps can significantly enhance your ability to present structured, compelling arguments. Whether you’re a student, educator, or business professional, choosing the right persuasion map can make a profound difference in achieving your objectives. Explore the benefits of using a persuasion map for your next project and see how tools like Creately can enhance your persuasive writing and argument structuring efforts.

How to Create an Effective Persuasion Map

Utilizing a persuasion map can streamline your argument structuring process and make your persuasive writing more compelling. Follow these step-by-step guidelines to create a powerful persuasion map:

Step 1: Narrow Down Your Topic

The first step in crafting an effective persuasion map is to pinpoint a clear, concise topic. Begin by conducting thorough research to gather a strong base of information. Narrowing down your topic ensures that your argument remains focused and relevant.

Step 2: Write Down Your Argument

Once your topic is clear, decide on your stance regarding the issue. This will be your main argument. Write it clearly at the center of your persuasion map. This serves as the foundation of your persuasive piece.

Step 3: Support Your Reasons

In the next layer, identify and list three key reasons that support your main argument. These reasons should be compelling and backed by valid research.

Reason 1: Provide evidence and examples that support this reason.

Reason 2: Detail additional supportive facts and data.

Reason 3: Offer further substantiation with relevant information.

Each of these reasons forms a crucial part of the argument structure, making your arguments stronger and more credible.

Step 4: Write a Compelling Conclusion

Finally, bring your persuasion map to a close with a strong conclusion. This should summarize your main argument and the supporting reasons, reinforcing the validity of your stance. A well-crafted conclusion not only ties all your points together but also leaves a lasting impression on your audience.

By following these steps, you can make effective use of a persuasion map to enhance your argumentative skills and create persuasive content effortlessly.

Benefits of Using Persuasion Maps in Various Domains

Academic benefits.

Persuasion maps are invaluable tools in the realm of education. By enhancing critical thinking and writing skills, they help students structure their essays, debates, and projects logically. The visual representation allows for clearer understanding and the ability to connect supporting factors with main arguments effectively. Additionally, students learn to back their claims with evidence, lending more credibility to their work. For more information check out our guide on types of graphic organizers .

Professional Benefits

In the professional world, persuasion maps are essential for structuring arguments in presentations and project proposals. Using a persuasion map streamlines the creation of cohesive, convincing narratives that can drive business success. The organized layout not only clarifies thinking but also ensures that all supporting data is logically connected, enhancing the overall impact of the presentation.

General Advantages

Beyond academia and professional environments, persuasion maps offer general advantages that can benefit a broad audience. These tools improve clarity, organization, and reliability in all types of content. Whether drafting a persuasive letter, preparing for a debate, or developing a strategic plan, the visualization and logical flow afforded by a persuasion map can make complex arguments clearer and more compelling.

In essence, persuasion maps facilitate clear logic and structured thinking, fundamental aspects for any form of persuasive writing. Tools like Creately take this a step further by offering collaborative planning, visualization capabilities, and high-level process mapping. These features make it easier to create detailed and structured persuasion maps that enhance the effectiveness of your arguments.

How Creately Enhances Your Persuasive Writing

Creately is your all-in-one solution for creating, collaborating, and visualizing persuasive writing frameworks using its comprehensive persuasion map tool. This robust platform is designed to streamline the process of structuring persuasive arguments, making it an invaluable resource for students, educators, business professionals, and anyone looking to enhance their persuasive writing skills.

Creately’s Key Features

Collaborative Planning: Creately facilitates seamless collaboration, allowing multiple users to contribute and refine persuasive maps in real-time. This feature is particularly useful for team presentations and group projects.

Visualization : With Creately’s advanced visualization tools, you can create clear, visually appealing diagrams that enhance understanding and engagement. Use colors, shapes, and connectors to make your arguments more compelling.

High-Level Process Mapping: Creately allows you to map out complex arguments and ideas at a high level, breaking them down into manageable components. This makes it easier to see the logical flow and identify any gaps or weaknesses in your argument.

Interactive Templates: Start with customizable templates that are specifically designed for persuasion maps. These templates guide you through the process of organizing your thesis, supporting reasons, and evidence.

Real-Time Collaboration : Work with peers or team members simultaneously, drawing on diverse perspectives and expertise. This is perfect for academic projects or business strategy sessions.

Data-Linked Diagrams: Integrate data directly into your persuasion maps to provide backing evidence and to make your arguments more credible.

Editable Diagrams: Easily make adjustments based on feedback or evolving arguments. Creately’s user-friendly interface ensures that you can quickly tweak your diagrams without starting from scratch.

To explore more about how persuasion maps can enhance your persuasive writing, check out our other guides below.

Join over thousands of organizations that use Creately to brainstorm, plan, analyze, and execute their projects successfully.

FAQs about Persuasive Maps

What is a convincing map, what is persuasive structure, can persuasion maps be used for personal development, what is an essay map, what are argument writing graphic organizers, more related articles.

Circle Map for Brainstorming Better Ideas

Chiraag George is a communication specialist here at Creately. He is a marketing junkie that is fascinated by how brands occupy consumer mind space. A lover of all things tech, he writes a lot about the intersection of technology, branding and culture at large.

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