What is a Position Paper?
A position paper is a type of argumentative essay where the writer thoroughly presents their viewpoint, convictions, and belief system regarding a specific public or academic issue. While inherently opinionated, a strong position paper must be grounded in factual details, rigorous research, and robust evidence that validates the writer’s stance.
The core purpose of a position paper is to generate support, understanding, and acceptance from the readers. To achieve this, the writer must demonstrate that they have investigated all sides of the issue, systematically refute opposing viewpoints (counterclaims), and present their own claims using reliable, compelling evidence.
4 Essential Steps in Writing a Winning Position Paper
Crafting a convincing position paper requires careful planning, research, and revision. Follow these steps to structure your argument effectively:
1. Analyze the Issue and Establish a Clear Stand
The foundation of your paper rests on your topic selection and stance.
- Issue Selection: Choose an issue that is genuinely open to debate—not too broad (e.g., “The Environment”) or too narrow (e.g., “The history of one specific tree”). Ensure there is sufficient research material available for arguments.
- Comprehensive Research: Before committing to a position, investigate all perspectives. Gather data from credible sources: academic journals, expert testimonies, reliable news sources, and reports. Create a detailed list of pros and cons for the main issue.
- Taking a Position: Your stand must be defensible and research-backed. Ask yourself:
- Am I fully familiar with the pros and cons of this issue?
- Is my established position directly supported by factual evidence and research?
- Do I have enough material to prove my claims and refute opposing ones?
2. Organize Your Ideas with a Strategic Outline
An outline is the critical framework that organizes your thoughts, arguments, and evidence into a logical flow. Your outline should focus on three main areas:
- General Statement of Position (Thesis): Your main argument.
- Refutation of Counterclaims: The opposing points you plan to address and dismantle.
- Supporting Evidence: The factual points and data that prove your own claims.
3. Draft the Introduction, Body, and Conclusion
Using your outline, draft the essay following the standard academic structure.
The Introduction (The Hook)
The introduction’s primary goal is to capture the reader’s attention and establish the context. Start with a catchy hook (a rhetorical question, a relevant quotation, or a brief anecdote). The introduction must clearly:
- Identify the core issue and provide necessary background information.
- Conclude with your thesis statement—a single sentence that clearly articulates your specific position on the issue.
The Body (The Debate)
The body paragraphs develop and defend your arguments.
- Address Counterclaims: Usually, the first section of the body is dedicated to the opposing side. Present the main counterarguments and immediately refute them using evidence. Showing that you understand and can dismantle the opposing view makes your own position significantly more persuasive.
- Present Your Claims: Assert at least three main points that support your thesis. Dedicate a paragraph or more to each point, defending it with your educated opinion and concrete, cited evidence.
The Conclusion (The Final Word)
The conclusion brings the paper to a powerful close.
- Summarize: Briefly review your main points.
- Restate the Thesis: Express your main position again, using fresh, impactful language.
- Call to Action/Suggestion: Offer a final thought or a suggested plan of action. Crucially, do not introduce any new ideas or evidence in the conclusion.
4. Revise, Edit, and Proofread for Polish
The final stage is crucial for ensuring clarity, precision, and academic credibility.
- Revision (Content): Focus on improving the substance of your work. This involves adding stronger evidence, removing redundant ideas, or clarifying complex arguments. Ensure all ideas flow logically.
- Editing (Clarity and Flow): Check the organization of your ideas and the precise choice of words. Cut out repetitive language, shorten verbose sentences, and ensure smooth transitions between paragraphs. This makes the message clear and concise.
- Proofreading (Mechanics): This is the final check for surface errors. Scrutinize the paper for errors in grammar, spelling, punctuation, and capitalization. A polished paper reflects credibility and respect for the reader.
