What is the Difference Between Argumentative and Persuasive?

The main difference between argumentative and persuasive writing lies in their approach and purpose. Here are the key differences:

Argumentative Writing:

• Goal: To get the reader to acknowledge that your side is valid and deserves consideration as another point of view.
• Technique: Offers the reader relevant reasons, credible facts, and sufficient evidence to support that the writer has a valid and worthy perspective.
• Starting point: Research a topic and then align with one side.
• Viewpoint: Presents multiple perspectives and provides evidence for each, allowing the reader to make an informed decision.
• Tone: Maintains an objective tone, relying on logical reasons substantiated with evidence.

Persuasive Writing:

• Goal: To get the reader to agree with you/your point of view on a particular topic.
• Technique: Blends facts and emotion in an attempt to convince the reader that the writer is "right".
• Starting point: Identify a topic and your side.
• Viewpoint: Presents one side—the writer's side—and may include one opposing point, which is then quickly dismissed/refuted.
• Tone: More aggressive and emotionally appealing, as the writer attempts to sway the reader to their point of view.

In summary, argumentative writing focuses on presenting multiple perspectives and evidence to encourage the reader to consider a particular point of view, while persuasive writing aims to convince the reader to adopt the writer's point of view by blending facts and emotional appeals.

Comparative Table: Argumentative vs Persuasive

The main difference between argumentative and persuasive writing lies in their purpose, techniques, and tone. Here is a table summarizing the differences between the two:

In summary, argumentative writing focuses on presenting a well-reasoned argument that supports a particular position, using evidence and logic to persuade the reader that the statement is valid. On the other hand, persuasive writing is more subjective and emotional, aiming to convince the reader to agree with the writer's point of view on a particular topic.