Persuasive techniquesHyperbole, forceful phrases, humour and imagery

Exaggeration (also known as hyperbole)

How will you ever live with yourself if you ignore this?

This is where a writer will be really over the top in order to make it seem as if an issue is massive.

How it works

• The writer does this intentionally to make the reader consider the size of the issue.
• The exaggeration will usually be a common type of phrase so that the reader is used to hearing it, such as 'millions of us need this'.
• By using a common phrase, the reader is less likely to question the statement and is more likely believe the writer.

Forceful phrases (also known as imperatives)

These will be using words like, ‘think about the plight of...’ or ‘forget your previous ideas about...’

How it works

• These are used to push a reader into thinking that the need to agree or disagree is urgent.
• It suggests that this is something that the reader must act upon quickly.

Humour

How it works

Humour works in two ways:

• The reader will usually appreciate humour, so it will make them more likely to be on the side of the writer.
• The reader will remember what made them laugh, so it will make the message in the text even more memorable.

Imagery

Imagery covers all of the descriptive writing techniques, such as metaphors and similes. These will usually be used in emotive pictures or anecdotes.

How it works

• When a writer uses imagery, they will be trying to get the reader to picture something specific.
• Think about what the writer is trying to show the reader and how this helps their argument.