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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?

body-sparkler-us-flag

  • 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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100 Persuasive Essay Topics

  • M.Ed., Education Administration, University of Georgia
  • B.A., History, Armstrong State University

Persuasive essays are a bit like argument essays , but they tend to be a little kinder and gentler. Argument essays require you to discuss and attack an alternate view, while persuasive essays attempt to convince the reader that you have a believable argument. In other words, you are an advocate, not an adversary.

Writing a compelling persuasive essay requires you to select a topic that ideally stirs your readers' emotions. Before settling on a subject, explore some options to find one that helps craft the strongest and most engaging argument.

Below is a list of potential persuasive essay topics to spark your brainstorming process. You can choose a topic from this list or use it as inspiration to develop an idea of your own.

Main Components of a Persuasive Essay

  • Introduction : This is the opening paragraph of your essay. It contains the hook , which is used to grab the reader's attention, and the thesis , or argument, which you'll explain in the next section.
  • Body : This is the heart of your essay, usually three to five paragraphs in length. Each paragraph examines one theme or issue used to support your thesis.
  • Conclusion : This is the final paragraph of your essay. In it, you'll sum up the main points of the body and connect them to your thesis. Persuasive essays often use the conclusion as a final appeal to the audience.

Learning how to write a persuasive essay is an essential skill people use every day in fields from business to law to media and entertainment. English students can begin writing a persuasive essay at any skill level. You'll surely find a sample topic or two from the list of 100 persuasive essays below, sorted by degree of difficulty.

Watch Now: 12 Ideas for Great Persuasive Essay Topics

Beginner topics.

  • Kids should get paid for good grades.
  • Students should have less homework.
  • Snow days are great for family time.
  • Penmanship is important.
  • Short hair is better than long hair.
  • We should all grow our own vegetables.
  • We need more holidays.
  • Aliens probably exist.
  • Gym class is more important than music class.
  • Kids should be able to vote.
  • Kids should get paid for extra activities like sports.
  • School should take place in the evenings.
  • Country life is better than city life.
  • City life is better than country life.
  • We can change the world.
  • Skateboard helmets should be mandatory.
  • We should provide food for the poor.
  • Children should be paid for doing chores.
  • We should populate the moon .
  • Dogs make better pets than cats.

Intermediate Topics

  • The government should impose household trash limits.
  • Nuclear weapons are an effective deterrent against foreign attack.
  • Teens should be required to take parenting classes.
  • We should teach etiquette in schools.
  • School uniform laws are unconstitutional.
  • All students should wear uniforms.
  • Too much money is a bad thing.
  • High schools should offer specialized degrees in arts or sciences.
  • Magazine advertisements send unhealthy signals to young women.
  • Robocalling should be outlawed.
  • Age 12 is too young to babysit.
  • Children should be required to read more.
  • All students should be allowed to study abroad.
  • Yearly driving tests should be mandatory past age 65.
  • Cell phones should never be used while driving.
  • All schools should implement bullying awareness programs.
  • Bullies should be kicked out of school.
  • Parents of bullies should have to pay a fine.
  • The school year should be longer.
  • School days should start later.
  • Teens should be able to choose their bedtime.
  • There should be a mandatory entrance exam for high school.
  • Public transit should be privatized.
  • We should allow pets in school.
  • The voting age should be lowered to 16.
  • Beauty contests are bad for body image.
  • Every American should learn to speak Spanish.
  • Every immigrant should learn to speak English.
  • Video games can be educational.
  • College athletes should be paid for their services.
  • We need a military draft .
  • Professional sports should eliminate cheerleaders.
  • Teens should be able to start driving at 14 instead of 16.
  • Year-round school is a bad idea.
  • High school campuses should be guarded by police officers.
  • The legal drinking age should be lowered to 19.
  • Kids under 15 shouldn't have Facebook pages.
  • Standardized testing should be eliminated.
  • Teachers should be paid more.
  • There should be one world currency.

Advanced Topics

  • Domestic surveillance without a warrant should be legal.
  • Letter grades should be replaced with a pass or fail.
  • Every family should have a natural disaster survival plan.
  • Parents should talk to kids about drugs at a young age.
  • Racial slurs should be illegal.
  • Gun ownership should be tightly regulated.
  • Puerto Rico should be granted statehood.
  • People should go to jail when they abandon their pets.
  • Free speech should have limitations.
  • Members of Congress should be subject to term limits.
  • Recycling should be mandatory for everyone.
  • High-speed internet access should be regulated like a public utility.
  • Yearly driving tests should be mandatory for the first five years after getting a license.
  • Recreational marijuana should be made legal nationwide.
  • Legal marijuana should be taxed and regulated like tobacco or alcohol.
  • Child support dodgers should go to jail.
  • Students should be allowed to pray in school.
  • All Americans have a constitutional right to health care.
  • Internet access should be free for everyone.
  • Social Security should be privatized.
  • Pregnant couples should receive parenting lessons.
  • We shouldn't use products made from animals.
  • Celebrities should have more privacy rights.
  • Professional football is too violent and should be banned.
  • We need better sex education in schools.
  • School testing is not effective.
  • The United States should build a border wall with Mexico and Canada.
  • Life is better than it was 50 years ago.
  • Eating meat is unethical.
  • A vegan diet is the only diet people should follow.
  • Medical testing on animals should be illegal.
  • The Electoral College is outdated.
  • Medical testing on animals is necessary.
  • Public safety is more important than an individual's right to privacy.
  • Single-sex colleges provide a better education.
  • Books should never be banned.
  • Violent video games can cause people to act violently in real life.
  • Freedom of religion has limitations.
  • Nuclear power should be illegal.
  • Climate change should be the president's primary political concern.

Key Takeaways

  • Persuasive essays aim to convince rather than confront, effectively making you advocate for a position or idea.
  • Choosing a compelling topic that evokes emotions is crucial for crafting a strong persuasive essay.
  • The main parts of a persuasive essay are the introduction (with a hook and thesis), body paragraphs (explaining themes supporting the thesis), and conclusion (summarizing main points and making a final appeal).

Hamilton College. " Writing a Persuasive Essay ."

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The Write Practice

25 Persuasive Essay Prompts and Topics

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Have you been assigned a persuasive essay and need a topic? We've got you! Take a look at these persuasive essay prompts and get your essay started today!

Blue and white paper airplanes

Persuasive essays can be challenging for several reasons, but the first problem is choosing the right topic.

You want a topic that is both engaging and controversial enough to elicit a strong response. A topic that's too broad may lead to a lack of focus, while one that's too narrow might not provide enough material to argue convincingly.

So choose a topic and then make sure you take a position that is debatable AND right-sized.

Is my topic debatable?

If I choose the topic violent video games, my first question might be is this debatable?

The truth is that it isn't debatable YET. I have to take a position on it. I have to pick a perspective to argue. So let's look at three position statements:

Violent video games are bad.

Violent video games exist.

Violent video games are controversial.

Out of these three, which one takes a debatable position?

“Violent video games are bad” is the only one that takes a position. The other two statements are facts.

Once you choose your topic, make sure you take a debatable stance on it.

Is my topic the right size?

Now that we know we've chosen a debatable statement, we have to make sure it's not too broad. First, look at the parts of the statement to see how each important word or phrase would be defined.

In our statement “Violent video games are bad,” we need to be more specific to narrow the scope of our paper. This position is too broad (and depending on research, may even be incorrect).

What are we categorizing as violent? Which games? And more importantly, what do we mean by “bad”? And because video games require.a player, who are the players impacted?

Once we do some research about specific types of games for specific player age groups, then we'll have a much better position statement that is right-sized: not too broad and not too narrow,.

So depending on my research, I might make my position more specific and stronger with something like:

Parents need to monitor their children's exposure to violent shooter games to minimize the negative effects of both screen time and violence.

Notice how this statement takes a position: parents need to limit exposure for two reasons: screen time and violence. Is it right-size? The paper will need to show evidence that children's exposure to screens and violence has long term effects, and argue why parents are the ones to address it.

Yes, this is narrow enough to tackle in an essay.

As you consider how to build a strong argument that includes a combination of solid reasoning, credible evidence, and emotional appeal, make sure your position statement on your topic is the right size to persuade your audience.

Need help writing your persuasive essay? Take a look at our guide on How to Write a Persuasive Essay here . 

Persuasive Essay Prompts

I'd like to throw out some topics and then give two or three prompts for each that would be debatable and right-sized for an essay. See which ones resonate with you.

College Education

  • When does the cost of a college education necessary to
  • How can college education be made more affordable, especially for lower income students?

Cell phones

  • How dangerous are cell phones while driving and what can be done to help drivers be more responsible?
  • What is the most positive benefit of cell phone use and how can users make sure the benefit outweighs any risks or harm?
  • How might we reimagine the school day to better meet the needs of students?
  • What one change needs to be made during the elementary school day to reduce bullying incidents?

College athletes

  • Should college athletes be paid? Why or why not?
  • What protections or education should college athletes have to protect their physical, mental, academic, and fiscal wellness?

Wild animals

  • Should people be allowed to own wild animals? Why or why not?
  • When should the government or other organizations be allowed to disrupt a wild animal's habitat?

Health care

  • Is health care a right for all citizens?
  • How could health care be reimagined to more fully embrace prevention and wellness?
  • Should schools ban junk food sales in the cafeteria or campus?
  • Should junk food be taxed at a higher rate to raise money to combat the health issues it can cause?

Standardized testing

  • Should standardized testing be abolished in high schools?
  • How should standardized tests be used to evaluate student and teacher progress?
  • How heavily weighted should standardized test scores be in the college admissions process?

Some other popular persuasive topics

These topics are mainstays of persuasive essays, but they usually require more intensive research. As you read about the topic from a variety of sources, let your research help you choose a perspective or viewpoint.

These are just topics–remember that you will still have to choose a position and make it right-sized based on your research.

  • exotic animals
  • death penalty
  • minimum wage and living wage
  • school uniforms
  • animal testing
  • genetic engineering
  • nuclear power

The Best Persuasive Essay Topics

You can use any one of the above twenty-five topics and write a terrific essay, but the best persuasive essay topic will be one you care deeply about.

Don't overlook the activities, ideas, and issues that are around you every day.

Do you love a specific genre of music? What do people within that community love to argue about? That might be a good persuasive essay topic.

Do you hate the latest updates to your favorite video game? You could write a persuasive essay about the reasons they aren't working and what developers should do instead.

Do you listen to certain podcasts or watch specific tv shows on repeat? What problems, controversies, or disagreements do people discuss about your favorites?

By far, the best persuasive essays I've read are on topics that students are passionate about. When you take the time to develop a topic and position using research and your own interests and passions, the essay will be stronger!

What other persuasive topics do you find most compelling? What tips do you have for choosing a good topic? Share in the comments .

Set the timer for 15 minutes . Choose one of these ideas and write as much of the essay as you can in one sitting. When you're finished, share your start in the Pro Practice Workshop for feedback from the community. And if you share, please be sure to comment on a few stories by other writers.

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Sue Weems is a writer, teacher, and traveler with an advanced degree in (mostly fictional) revenge. When she’s not rationalizing her love for parentheses (and dramatic asides), she follows a sailor around the globe with their four children, two dogs, and an impossibly tall stack of books to read. You can read more of her writing tips on her website .

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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.

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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. 

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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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Interesting Persuasive Essay Topics For College Students

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Table of contents

  • 1 How To Choose An Interesting Topic For a Persuasive Essay
  • 2 Essential Components of a Persuasive Essay
  • 3 What You Should Know When Writing A Persuasive Essay
  • 4 Persuasive Essay Topics on Education
  • 5 Persuasive Essay Topics on Society
  • 6 Persuasive Essay Topics on History
  • 7 Persuasive Essay Topics on Government
  • 8 Persuasive Essay Topics on Politics
  • 9 10 Funny Persuasive Essay Topics
  • 10 20 Good Persuasive Essay Topics For College Students
  • 11 20 Persuasive Essay Topics for High School
  • 12 20 Persuasive Essay Topics for Middle School
  • 13 20 Best Persuasive Essay Topics 2023

An essay is an attempt to communicate information, opinions, or feelings and usually presents an argument on a topic. In an academic context, an essay is an exercise for students to explore and clarify their ideas on a subject.

If you are thinking about how to write a persuasive essay , you need to know that writing an essay is a complex process. Issues such as choosing a topic and conducting thorough research are involved with the chosen topic. The paper’s analysis and the arguments’ design also need to support the issues presented. Therefore, an important focus will be placed on the steps to create a strong persuasive essay. Choosing an engaging and persuasive essay topic will set the rules of construction and its final form.

How To Choose An Interesting Topic For a Persuasive Essay

Hiring a writer’s  professional persuasive essay writing service can be an option when you are facing some problems in creating an essay. There are professionals available online, from people with skills in this area. This is an important option if you have to make a speech about a topic and a written presentation.

Essential Components of a Persuasive Essay

To be successful, a persuasive essay must contain several essential components:

  • Clear thesis statement: A compelling thesis statement, that clearly expresses the writer’s opinion on the subject, is essential. This statement also serves as a guide for the rest of the essay, ensuring every point made is relevant to the overall argument.
  • Strong evidence:  Solid evidence is essential for a persuasive essay. Building credibility and trust is paramount for any successful argument or attempt at persuasion. Establishing one’s authority on the topic can be done by highlighting their expertise, personal experience, or standing within a community. This will make readers more likely to believe the opinions and convictions being expressed, making the message even more powerful.
  • Counterarguments: Addressing counterarguments is an important part of a persuasive essay. The writer should acknowledge and respond to potential objections to their argument. This shows that the writer has considered opposing views and strengthens their argument.
  • Appeals to emotion: Emotional appeals are often used in persuading readers, as they help establish a connection between the writer and the reader. This can be done through personal stories, examples, and descriptive language that creates empathy or a sense of outrage. Pathos is an emotional appeal that helps create this link and make the narrative more powerful. An impacting emotional connection to the story can leave an unforgettable impression on readers and ensure the message resonates with them.
  • Call to action: It encourages the reader to take a specific action or change their behavior.

What You Should Know When Writing A Persuasive Essay

The first step in making an essay is to find a relevant topic to make the task more engaging and motivate yourself to help write a more convincing essay. At this stage, narrowing down the topic by adopting a particular position toward a subject or sub-topic is also necessary.

If you have problems establishing a position on the subject you want to address, brainstorm with others or work individually and write down the ideas that go through your mind, no matter how irrelevant or strange they may seem. At the next stage, connect ideas and group them into sub-topics, developing and exploring them in detail. And if you find yourself at a dead end, then you can buy an essay online today and get a ready-made result in the time frame you need.

Persuasive Essay Topics on Education

  • Education Impact on Psychological Development
  • Is Attending College Still Worth It?
  • The Importance of Early Childhood Education
  • The Power of Arts Education
  • The Benefits of Bilingual Education
  • Supporting Students with Disabilities
  • Promoting Critical Thinking in Education
  • Reducing Standardized Testing
  • Financial Education for Life Skills
  • Advocating for the Importance of Physical Education

Persuasive Essay Topics on Society

  • Are Immigrants Good for the Americans?
  • The State of Gun Violence in the US
  • Promoting Kindness and Empathy in Society
  • Encouraging Volunteerism and Community Engagement
  • Advancing Gender Equality and Women’s Empowerment
  • Combating Climate Change
  • Embracing Diversity and Inclusion in Society
  • Advocating for Animal Rights and Ethical Treatment
  • Ensuring Affordable Housing for All
  • Creating a Safe Digital Society

Persuasive Essay Topics on History

  • Increase Of Child Labor
  • Remembering and Learning from the Lessons of World War II
  • Preserving Historical Sites for Future Generations
  • Reexamining Colonialism’s Impact on Indigenous Cultures
  • Recognizing the Contributions of Women in History
  • Exploring Marginalized Perspectives
  • Challenging Historical Narratives
  • Preserving Cultural Heritage
  • Promoting Historical Literacy for a Better Understanding of the Present
  • Analyzing its Ongoing Impact on Global Societies

Persuasive Essay Topics on Government

  • Thurgood Marshall A True Leader
  • Was President Andrew Jackson a Supervillain
  • Public Policy for Its Nationals
  • Racism is Wrong Which Should Be Stopped
  • Promoting Civic Engagement and Voter Participation
  • Balancing National Security and Civil Liberties
  • Addressing the Influence of Money in Politics
  • Strategies to Ensure Clean and Transparent Governance
  • Upholding Equal Treatment and Justice for All Citizens
  • The Importance of Government Investment in Education and Healthcare

Persuasive Essay Topics on Politics

  • Why Trump Cannot Make America Great Again
  • Why The United States Should Not Construct A Wall
  • Border Wall Critical for Reducing Crime
  • Encouraging Active Engagement in Democratic Processes
  • Ensuring Ethical Standards in Politics
  • Fostering Dialogue and Collaboration Across Partisan Lines
  • Empowering the Next Generation of Leaders
  • Advocating for Accessible and Fair Elections
  • Defending the Integrity of Information and Public Discourse
  • Building Alliances for Global Problem-solving

10 Funny Persuasive Essay Topics

If you are looking for funny and interesting persuasive topics, you should consider these topics for a persuasive essay:

  • Blondes are best in science
  • Humor can improve your work results.
  • Men cheat more than women.
  • Drinking wine every day can make you healthier.
  • Homework should be forbidden.
  • Why is it important to unfriend your parents on Facebook?
  • Moms can be excellent football players.
  • Debatable essays should be made with important speakers.
  • “Family Guy” can be a life model for children.
  • Men love pink more than women.

20 Good Persuasive Essay Topics For College Students

When you need to write a good academic essay and to impress your audience, you can check these solutions for your persuasive essay:

  • Work hard in the workplace to feel better.
  • Choose your clothes for your dream job.
  • Why do people feel the importance of always being right?
  • Do embarrassing situations make people change their life?
  • People who experience devastating situations appreciate their life more.
  • Why should people try new things?
  • If you want something strong, how do you succeed?
  • Self-confidence makes you successful.
  • Hobbies improve your personal skills.
  • Is music an efficient stress reliever in reducing depression?
  • The possibility of facing a war.
  • Homework writing assignments should be replaced with oral presentations.
  • Collecting cars or dolls is the most boring hobby in the world.
  • Students of any age should keep their phones with them.
  • School cafeterias should implement more rigorous health policies.
  • Colleges should provide their students with free food.
  • Can money make your life better?
  • Should students study each day?
  • Why do children love pets?
  • What is more important – recycling or donating?

In the next section, you will find topics on persuasive essays that can be amazing ideas for persuasive speech  and essays for both high and middle school.

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20 Persuasive Essay Topics for High School

Great persuasive essay topics for high school could be:

  • The death penalty is an effective way to scare off criminals.
  • Things the older generation can learn from the modern-day youth.
  • Higher taxes for rich people will favor financial balance.
  • People should be discouraged from keeping rare and exotic animals as pets.
  • Why it is best to always remain honest in life situations.
  • The positive role hobbies can play in people’s careers.
  • Kindness is one of the most important human qualities.
  • Joining the army should be a decision that young people should make on their own.
  • Embarrassing situations can help make people more confident.
  • Human needs should be placed before the needs of wild animals.
  • Treating animal habitats with respect and care is important.
  • Things man must learn to ensure that rare species are kept from extinction.
  • It is best for every family to have a survival plan after a natural disaster.
  • Providing free internet access is great for everyone.
  • Parenting lessons should be made compulsory for pregnant couples.
  • Life is richer and better now than it was 50 years before.
  • Everyone must recycle.
  • Man’s activities are the essential causes of climate change.
  • The use of Grades should be discouraged.
  • Adults should carry electroshock weapons to defend themselves.

Finding the perfect persuasive essay topic is not always easy. That’s why many students struggle with this task, but luckily there is a paper writing service for nursing that can help with choosing the right one for you. Whether you are trying to persuade people to buy a certain product, participate in a certain activity, or even change their opinion about a certain issue, selecting an interesting and relevant topic is of utmost importance.

20 Persuasive Essay Topics for Middle School

Some suitable topics for a persuasive essay in middle school include:

  • The ability to fly is the most amazing superpower.
  • Some scientific discoveries should not be shared with others.
  • The most boring job in the world.
  • Children and chores.
  • Kids should be paid for doing chores.
  • Children should be given larger allowances.
  • The fascinating places for summer vacation.
  • Why do I study during the summer?
  • The role of school newspaper & radio in the life of students.
  • Importance of social media in the lives of students.
  • A gym class is more important than a music class.
  • School time should be made flexible.
  • The world is ours to change.
  • Dogs make better pets than cats.
  • Schools need more holidays.
  • Schools should implement bullying awareness programs
  • Bullies should be kicked out of school.
  • How the internet has changed our lives.
  • There should be different classes for boys and girls.
  • The worst song in the world.

20 Best Persuasive Essay Topics 2023

For college, try these trendy persuasive essay topics in 2023.

  • Every American should learn to speak a second language from primary school.
  • Every immigrant should learn to speak fluent English.
  • High school campuses should be safeguarded by soldiers.
  • The legal drinking age should be 18, as it is in other countries.
  • Kids under 12 shouldn’t have a Facebook account.
  • Standardized examinations should be removed.
  • Every family should create a survival plan.
  • Parents should discuss drugs with their children from primary school age.
  • Racial offenses should be banned.
  • Gun possession should be firmly controlled.
  • Yearly driving examinations should be required for novice drivers.
  • All Americans have a constitutional right to health care.
  • Pregnant couples should receive free training for parenting.
  • Children need better sex education.
  • School examinations are not realistic.
  • Violent video games can trigger people to act aggressively in real life.
  • Nuclear power should be prohibited.
  • Climate change should be the most important political concern.
  • Medical marijuana should be universally legal.
  • People should go to prison if they beat or injure their pets.

With so many persuasive essay topics to choose from, it takes time to decide which one to write about. If you need extra help researching or writing your paper, you can always contact a custom essay writing service for assistance. These services specialize in helping students express their arguments and ideas convincingly and coherently.

Getting good grades in college is important as it is an investment in your future and a great opportunity for your future career. If you need to submit a persuasive essay and don’t feel confident, you can use our professional writing service. We can help you with papers on any subject you need, like psychology, sociology, politics, economics, management, human resources, art, history, literature, etc. Our writers provide a completely unique and high-quality assignment. If you are ready to get the best grade, buy a persuasive essay  on PapersOwl.com. We guarantee you timely delivery and satisfaction with a perfect result.

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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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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

In my language arts class we are assigned to write two opinion essays the first one my teacher gave us but the second one we choose. i have a trouble with choosing but now that i came to this website i can choose easily and fast. thank you, thank you, thank you for this website.

this site has been absolutely resourceful and its the best site iv been on

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187 Impressive Higher English Persuasive Essay Topics [2024]

persuasive topics for an essay

Persuasive essay writing is a popular assignment for students in high school and college alike. This is not surprising. After all, it is a basic of the learning process. However, finding ideas for such a task isn’t easy, especially if you’re looking for higher persuasive essay topics.

One of the subjects that requires you to write such a paper is higher English. To pass this class, you have to deal with and compose quite tricky texts. Thus, if you are studying this subject, you will have to be ready to face many writing challenges.

This is why our team has created a list of the most fruitful ideas for academic writing. For your convenience, we divided the higher English persuasive essay topics into several sections. So, navigate our page, look through all the examples, and make your search even more effective.

❓ What Is Higher English?

  • 💭 How to Choose?
  • 📎 For High School
  • ✒️ For College
  • 📖 Literature
  • 🙊 Controversial Issues
  • 🏫 Education
  • 🗳️ Politics
  • 💭 Philosophy

📃 References

If you’ve studied in any country other than the UK, you may be wondering what higher English is. Is it a course? Is it a level? Well, in this section, we dive into the definition of the phrase.

Higher English is a course typical for the UK, particularly for England and Scotland. It investigates the English language and literature on a deep level.

It can be taught both:

  • as an independent subject
  • alongside other higher science programs

Through the course of higher English, students learn to think critically and creatively.

Developing a portfolio is one of the requirements for completing an advanced higher English course. It takes 30% of the overall grade. Thus, folio plays a vital role in accomplishing the course. For a successful portfolio, students have to write two texts, no less than 1300 words each. Composing them, they have to use creative and discursive writing techniques.

Generally, higher English is focused on advancing reading, writing, listening, and speaking skills. By the end of the course, students should be able to do the following:

  • use complex language;
  • apply literature knowledge in everyday life;
  • understand the core of language operation.

Students are required to write an impressive number of persuasive essays. Here is where they may face difficulties with the appropriate topic selection.

We will not let you worry about that.

You can find a list of useful higher English persuasive topics created by our team on our page. Take a look at it and choose the most exciting idea for your essay!

Before selecting a topic for a higher English essay, reread your assignment if you have one.

💭 How to Choose a Persuasive Topic for Higher Folio?

A higher folio has to include a persuasive essay in it. Therefore, first, let’s figure out what it is.

A persuasive essay is one of the types of discursive essays. Its distinctive feature is the presence of a particular situation. Discuss a problem or issue is essential to its purpose.

Now, let’s narrow down the focus:

What is the nature of persuasive writing? It is a writing technique that aims to convince readers to accept the author’s point of view. Moreover, it often includes a call to action. It motivates the audience to take specific steps to achieve the desired result.

Be careful there! Learn how to distinguish an argumentative essay from a persuasive one.

An argumentative essay is often based on a consistent explanation and logical reasoning. It shows the readers the writer’s point of view, yet doesn’t call them for any action. In contrast, a persuasive essay relies on emotions and expressions of personal opinions. A perfect way to see those differences would be by going to an essay examples database that certainly would contain a variety of paper types.

Persuasive essays attempt to make readers follow the author’s idea.

Now, let’s move to the issue of an effective selection of a persuasive topic for higher English. Our team prepared some useful tips for you. Don’t hesitate to use them.

  • Keep your goal in mind. The persuasive essay aims to present all the arguments that can convince the reader that the writer is right. So, choosing a topic, pick the one that you can elaborate on and persuade in.
  • Choose the essay idea wisely. Ensure that the topic is appropriate and relevant for the tutor who will check and grade your paper. You’re writing for them.
  • Make sure to have enough resources. Evaluate whether there is enough information on the topic so that you can write a compelling essay. Check the possible trustworthy sources for the evidence that you’ll use in the paper.
  • Show your best side. Consider whether you can demonstrate your skills, composing on the chosen idea. Remember that you’re writing an essay for your portfolio. You may want it to look as perfect as possible and highlight your strengths. That is to say, see if you can elaborate on the topic.
  • Compose a strong introductory paragraph. An introduction is crucial because it grabs the reader’s attention and presents a thesis. Think of a strong thesis statement and whether you can come up with one. If you cannot compose a powerful thesis statement, better choose a more successful topic.
  • Don’t choose an overused topic. Determine the originality of your idea and your willingness to write about it. Try to google persuasive essay examples and figure out what topics are the most common and widely used. Based on your observations, come up with a unique issue and surprise your readers with it.

Find and consider as many persuasive topics as you can to form one unique idea.

⭐ Top 12 Higher Persuasive Essay Topics

  • Unions are important.
  • Zoos are unacceptable.
  • Paper books are obsolete.
  • Graffiti is art.
  • We will live on Mars.
  • English is universal .
  • Plastic bags are useful.
  • Cloning is unethical.
  • Student uniform is obsolete.
  • UK schools are better.
  • Most effective propaganda techniques.
  • Internships should be paid.

☝️ Amazing Higher English Persuasive Essay Topics

Just like any other assignment, an essay may be of different degrees of complexity. This is how we divided our higher English persuasive essay ideas into several sections.

So don’t waste your time. Go to the corresponding section and select the most appropriate topic.

📎 Higher English Topics for High School

A subject of higher English may seem very unfamiliar and bizarre at school. Being unprepared for the complexity of the course can scare you. Pupils get extremely confused when it comes to the topic search.

You are lucky:

We prepared a list of exceptional topics for middle school and high school students. Feel free to use it. Be prepared to face any challenges of the higher English course!

  • The significance of literacy .
  • Football has a direct impact on the culture of England.
  • Foreign languages should be taught in every school.

Foreign language programs improve students’ academic performance.

  • Both abstinence and safe sex should be taught in high schools.
  • School uniforms should be mandatory to maintain discipline.
  • People should quit smoking .
  • Eating disorders among teenage girls is an issue that shouldn’t be underestimated.
  • Motivation theories are incredibly effective in education .
  • Self-esteem plays a crucial role in students’ health condition .
  • Alcohol negatively affects adolescent health , so their parents should monitor alcohol consumption by teens.
  • Children and teenagers should not be silent about domestic violence .
  • The government should ban sports betting.
  • We should drink enough water.
  • The minimization of a generation gap is crucial for a healthy relationship in a family.
  • Drug tests should be mandatory for high school sportspeople.
  • A gap year is a great idea . Convince your readers about the usefulness of taking a gap year after finishing school. Prove the rightness of your position by providing strong arguments. In case you don’t agree with the statement, provide well-developed counterarguments.
  • Alcohol consumption in the UK. The government of the UK should introduce measures to limit alcohol consumption. We have to avoid possible adverse ramifications. Do you agree or disagree with this statement? Prove your point of view by providing strong arguments.
  • Studying in the United Kingdom is a great experience. What are the positive sides of gaining an education in the UK? Convince your readers to study the UK.
  • A grade does not reflect students’ knowledge. Give your readers a clear explanation of why grades do not demonstrate a student’s performance in the class. Persuade them to pay more attention to education. You might believe that grades reflect a student’s academic performance. Then, support your position by providing counterarguments.
  • Violent video games should be banned . What are the possible negative consequences caused by video games? Prove your audience the necessity to ban violent video games.

The influence of video games on children is inconclusive.

✒️ Higher English Topics for College

The majority of UK colleges require their students to take the course of higher English. Therefore, you need to be ready. Difficulties caused by this subject should not be your worry.

Since we care about college students, we gathered persuasive essay ideas in one place. So, if you are seeking help, you are on the right page! Scroll through our topics and chose the most appropriate for you.

  • Cheating during college exams should be strictly punished because it is demoralizing.
  • The benefits of active listening are crucial in demonstrating high performance in the workplace.
  • Students’ time management strategies should be taken into consideration by every student.
  • Sleep is essential because deprivation affects college students’ academic performance.
  • Should fast food qualify as ‘food’?
  • A healthy lifestyle and eating should become the norm for every person.
  • Alternative energy sources are crucial for saving the planet.
  • A family should promote mobility, not limit it.
  • We have to implement specific strategies to combat the sexist language.
  • Communication skills are essential in a successful business leading.
  • Teaching deaf children how to read is a vital part of deaf kids’ mental development.
  • Parents should control the impact of TV cartoons on their children’s behavior .
  • Community services for mentally disabled people should be highly-developed.
  • Recycling should become mandatory.
  • Businesses should invest money in innovations.
  • Genetically modified food should not be a threat to the population. Give a clear explanation of why GMO products are safe to consume. If you disagree with the statement, provide strong counterarguments to prove your position.
  • Should smoking be banned in public places? Decide on whether it should be prohibited on not and prove your position. Your arguments should support only one side of the issue. Don’t stay somewhere in the middle.
  • We should expand the legal age for getting a driving license in the UK . Explain why 17 years old adolescents are not mature enough to drive a car. If you don’t agree with the statement, provide counterarguments to prove the rightness of your point of view.
  • E-books should not replace paper books. Express your position regarding this statement. Provide clear arguments or counterarguments to prove your point of view.

Consider every side of the debate concerning paper books and E-books.

  • English language learning should be mandatory in every country. The main idea of the essay: English is a global language. Support this statement and persuade the readers about the significance of English knowledge in the modern world.

💪 Persuasive Essay Topics: Advanced Higher English

If you are a university student in Scotland, you will be familiar with higher English. You may have to be ready for an advanced one as well.

Choose the most appropriate idea among a wide variety of persuasive essay topics about Scotland. Although the task is quite challenging, you don’t need to worry. Consider our list of cool essay topics. With it, you will write an outstanding paper without any struggles.

  • Gender equity issues in work practices should be considered while creating a healthy working environment.
  • The application of social concepts and theories is a part of the general well-being.
  • Functionalism, conflict, and interactionism are the most significant aspects of sociological theories .
  • Data collect regarding customer should be considered as a future of e-commerce.
  • Scotland’s tourism products and destination identity develop the tourism market economy.
  • Organizational behavior issues and theories are vital in leading a successful business.
  • ICT impacts curriculum development and reforms in the United Kingdom to a great extent.
  • Public sector financial management plays a crucial role in the general well-being of the country.
  • Scottish routes company establishment is a turning point in the online marketing platform development.
  • The city authorities should prevent senior citizens’ abuse .
  • Women’s rights violations should not exist in modern society.
  • Freedom of speech, religion, and religious tolerance are the fundamental concepts of modern civilized society.
  • E-Commerce adoption results in wise business positioning. How will e-commerce help to increase the dynamics of any business? Convince your audience about the significance of e-commerce by providing strong arguments.
  • Human rights play a vital role in public opinion-making. Support this idea with well-developed arguments and examples. If you disagree with the statement, provide compelling counterarguments to prove the rightness of your opinion.
  • Globalization ruins the cultural heritage of the nations . Comment on the impact of the world globalization on the national identity of every country. Persuade the readers to preserve the national culture of their home countries.

👍 Good Persuasive Essay Topics for Higher English

Our team’s main aim is to help the students in all the possible ways. So, we decided to develop one more method to divide the academic essay topics.

Find different sections that focus on specific fields for your persuasive essay.

Look through the sections, decide what is the most suitable for you, and choose a fascinating essay topic. An essay idea search has never been so easy, right?

💬 Persuasive Essay Topics on Language

Language is one of the most potent tools for communication within one nation and internationally. Moreover, it carries the cultural identity of the country, preserving a spirit.

The topic of language is too diverse and has a lot of aspects to discuss. Consequently, professors of higher English course usually give essays on it.

The section Topics For Persuasive Essay UK will provide you with a wide variety of ideas. Don’t waste your time! Choose an appropriate topic for your paper right away.

  • Language influences our attitude to a great extent.
  • Sexism is present in the English Language.
  • Language and communication are two different concepts .
  • Language has a direct influence on cognition.
  • Shakespeare affected the modern English language to a great extent.
  • To understand how language operates, we should first examine English Language Evolution .
  • Multilingualism should be accepted and encouraged in modern society.
  • Accents and dialects are the critical components of language intervention.
  • The teachers should learn linguistics.
  • The change in languages over time is harmful to the nation.
  • Scottish Gaelic and Goidelic Celtic languages should not have been restricted in the 16th century.
  • Text autocorrect negatively influences the level of literacy and language knowledge.
  • We should consider Scots Gaelic as a separate language from Irish.
  • English should become an official international language.
  • Body language can say more than verbal communication.
  • Joking or expressing love in a foreign language is harder than in a native one . Either support or contradict this statement by providing appropriate examples and clear arguments.
  • The implementation of one universal language is a bad idea . Why and how it can impact the national diversity of the world? Prove the importance of preserving national languages.
  • The Scottish language will soon disappear. Conduct research on the usage of Scottish nowadays. Is it very wide-spread? How many people know and use it in everyday life?

Try to predict the future of the Scottish language.

  • “As many languages you know, as many times you are a human being.” – Tomáš Garrigue Masaryk. Develop this thought by providing strong arguments and examples. Persuade your readers about the importance of foreign language learning.
  • Irish language learning should become mandatory in the educational institutions of Ireland . Explain the significance of the Irish language for the population of Ireland. In case you don’t agree with the statement, provide clear counterarguments to prove your position.

🙊 Persuasive Essay Topics on Controversial Issues

  • Is attention deficit disorder a real disorder?
  • To deal with girls’ discrimination in the modern educational system , girls need to receive more attention than boys.
  • Should cigarette smoking be banned?
  • LGBTQ+ communities should have equal rights all over the world.
  • Adoption, childlessness, or reproductive technology – which one is the most effective and ethical?
  • Abortion should be legalized for underaged girls.
  • Should smoking tobacco be classified as an illegal drug?
  • Are surrogacy and its effects on families harmful for children?
  • Should student diversity be present in a school classroom?
  • Tuition fees should become lower.
  • Should homelessness become a concern of city authorities or governmental representatives?
  • Should the death penalty be legalized in the United Kingdom?
  • Should sex education become mandatory in all high schools in Scotland?
  • The mental health of employees should be a concern of employers.
  • Health care should be free.
  • Should women develop a career and have a stable income before giving birth to kids?
  • Should the production and selling of energy drinks be banned? Explain the harm of energetics on the health of a human being. Decide whether energy drinks are worth consuming. Persuade the readers about the rightness of your position by presenting strong arguments.

Energy drinks can promote adverse effects on children and teenagers.

  • Suicides among male teen homosexuals: harassment, shame, or stigma? In your opinion, what is the main reason for suicides among them? Support your position with clear evidence and appropriate examples.
  • Does studying abroad result in better education? Analyze the positive and negative aspects of gaining higher education abroad. Express your own opinion regarding this issue and convince your readers about your rightness.
  • Should birth control be monitored on a governmental level? Why is birth control crucial in modern society? What are the religious, cultural, and political aspects of birth control? Explain the link between birth control and gender and sexuality issues. Support your opinion by providing well-structured arguments.

🏫 Persuasive Essay Topics on Education

  • The college students should be ready to face challenges and pressures.
  • There is a strong correlation between wearing a school uniform and academic performance .
  • Sex education plays an essential role in preventing teenage pregnancy.
  • Student diversity in school classroom influences the educational process in a positive way.
  • The curriculum approaches in England and Scotland differ to a great extent.
  • At university, acquiring skills is more significant than getting grades.
  • Cheating on college exams is demoralizing.
  • Could electronic cigarettes help university students give smoking up?
  • Athletes that represent educational institutions should receive scholarships covering their tuition fees.
  • In schools, we should teach colorblind children what colors are.
  • Art oriented activities like drama clubs, music lessons, and handicraft classes are essential for the all-round development of children.
  • A university should be a dry campus. Comment on the negative influence of alcohol on the learning process. Persuade your readers about the importance of controlling alcohol consumption while being a student.
  • Single-sex schooling in education is effective. Convince the readers about the effectiveness of single-sex education by providing strong evidence. If you don’t agree with the statement, express the opposing position. Elaborate on your arguments and provide counterarguments.

Resultsof the studies on single-sex education are inconclusive.

  • Online education cannot fully replace the regular one . Compare and contrast these two ways of gaining knowledge. Provide clear arguments to prove the significance of attending educational institutions. Explain why having in-class discussions is crucial for students’ development. Do you believe that regular education is replaceable by the remote one? Then provide counterarguments to support your position.
  • The internet has a negative influence on the educational process . How the internet stops the mental development of kids, teenagers, and grown-ups? Persuade readers to limit internet usage while studying.

🗳️ Persuasive Essay Topics on Politics

  • To prevent the adverse effects of corruption, we should eliminate its causes.
  • The political parties of the United Kingdom are way more reliable than in the United States .
  • Human rights should not intervene in public opinion-making.
  • Politics and religion interdependence impacts the general political situation of a country.
  • Political freedom is a significant key to the general well- being of modern society.
  • Terrorism should not be used as a political instrument.
  • Civil disobedience in contemporary society is a massive threat to civilians and governments.
  • International humanitarian law is a useful tool to reduce the hazardous effects of military conflicts.
  • The royal family is the indicator of the UK political system’s uniqueness.
  • We should protect the confidentiality in the health care system.
  • The voting system should be fair and transparent.
  • The COVID-19 outbreak of 2019-2020 has a direct influence on international political relations.
  • Scotland would not be a stronger country if it existed independently from the UK. What are the benefits for Scotland of being in a political union with the United Kingdom? Persuade your readers in a mutually beneficial economic and political cooperation.
  • Brexit happened against Scotland’s will. Elaborate on the wish of the Scottish population to remain the part of the European Union. Prove that the negotiation of the conflict between England, Wales, and Scotland was not diplomatic enough.
  • The retirement policy of the UK should be changed. What are the main weaknesses of the current British retirement system? Give your suggestions on how it can be improved. Convince your readers in the usefulness of the retirement policy modifications.

💭 Persuasive Essay Topics on Philosophy

  • Dystopia idea in movies and novels influences people’s perception of life in a negative way.
  • Philosophy ideology of success and failure plays a vital role in reaching high results.
  • Suicide conflicts with moral philosophy and human values.
  • Classic philosophical problems embodied in films can help people in dealing with them.
  • We cannot ignore the philosophy of critical issues in today’s society .
  • Spiritual and physical journeys play a vital role in human life.
  • The philosophy of religion helps people to dive deep into their beliefs and values.

Philosophy of religion is the examination of the themes and concepts involved in religious traditions.

  • Unethical treatment of animals contradicts the moral concepts of philosophy.
  • From the philosophical perspective, heroism should be considered as a dedication to principles.
  • Specific philosophical values help develop resilience in the face of adversity.
  • Should human rights be violated if it may help the life of a person?
  • Abortion should be band because it contradicts the ethical ideas of humanity.
  • In the battle well-paid job vs. vocation, vocation should win . Explain the philosophy of vocation. Persuade the readers to follow their hearts when it comes to a choice of profession.
  • Philosophy Issue: Truth vs. Happiness. While choosing between these two notions, what would you select? Persuade your audience about the rightness of your position by presenting well-structured and clear arguments.
  • Philosophy plays a significant role in education . Convince your readers about the importance of philosophy while gaining knowledge. In case you don’t agree with the position of philosophy in school, present the opposing opinion. Provide counterarguments to support your ideas.

🗿 Persuasive Essay Topics on History

  • The black death disease should be perceived as one of the most horrible pandemics that hit the medieval world.
  • Industrial Revolution in England opened a new era of technical advancement.
  • The conditions of the working class in England is one of the causes of the industrial revolution.
  • Great Britain Empire’ Alliances led to the break out of the European Great War.
  • Enlightenment and Romantic Age pushed the development of the British culture forward.
  • History of Celtic Christianity has a direct impact on the development of religion in the UK.
  • The provisional Irish republican army is one of the most dangerous terrorist organizations.
  • The British ideal of an orderly world shaped the world we live in today.
  • English Civil War has a direct impact on American colonists.
  • The Wars of the Three Kingdoms formed the history of modern England, Scotland, and Ireland.

The Wars of the Three Kingdoms lasted 12 years.

  • Elizabeth II -is the legend of contemporary world history . Provide a brief overview of the queen’s achievements. Convince the readers about the uniqueness of Elizabeth’s II as a historical figure.
  • The Great Fire of London is one of the darkest events in British history. Comment on the terrific outcomes of the tragedy. How did the fire impact the economic situation in the entire county?
  • Oxford University is the place where ordinary people turn into upstanding figures . Introduce three of the most influential alumnae of Oxford University. What was their input in the scientific development of the UK? Prove the crucial role of Oxford University in the British educational system.
  • William Wallace is a person who successfully fought for Scottish independence . Elaborate on his role in British history and prove the importance of his actions.
  • History, culture, and language of Wales directly influenced the development of the United Kingdom. Give a brief overview of Wales formation starting from the ancient times and mowing to the 21st century. Prove the connection between Wales and the UK historical and cultural progress.

Thank you for visiting our page! We hope our article was insightful and full of useful ideas. Don’t forget to share it with the other students!

  • Higher English, Course Overview and Resources: SQA, Scottish Qualifications Authority
  • Higher English: Planit National Qualifications
  • The Complete Guide to English-Language Certificates: Preparation Courses Portal
  • How to Create a Thesis Statement for a Persuasive Essay: Amy Mahoney, Pen and the Pad
  • 434 Good Persuasive Topics for Speech or Essay: My Speech Class
  • Senior Fiction Suggestions for Advanced Higher English Dissertations: Senior Reading by Subject, Shetland Library
  • Persuasive Essay Examples: AcademicHelp.net
  • Choose Bright Persuasive Essay Topics 6 Main Steps: Persuasive Papers
  • Strong Thesis Statements: Purdue Online Writing Lab, College of Liberal Arts, Purdue University
  • Basic Steps in the Research Process: North Hennepin Community College
  • How to Write a Persuasive Essay: Esther Lombardi, ThoughtCo
  • Persuasive Essay: Writing Resources, Hamilton College
  • Persuasive Writing: Read Write Think
  • Distinguishing Argumentation from Persuasion: Thoughtful Learning, K-12
  • Find Your Argument: Australian National University, Canberra
  • Argument: The Writing Center, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill
  • What Is an Essay: Library University of Leeds
  • Counterargument: Gordon Harvey (adapted from The Academic Essay: A Brief Anatomy), for the Writing Center at Harvard University
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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!

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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

On this Page

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.

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Public Speaking Tips & Speech Topics

434 Good Persuasive Speech Topics

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Jim Peterson has over 20 years experience on speech writing. He wrote over 300 free speech topic ideas and how-to guides for any kind of public speaking and speech writing assignments at My Speech Class.

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Are you struggling to find a good persuasive speech topic ? We know – it can be hard to think of an interesting topic!

We’ve done all  the hard work and created a list of 400+ great persuasive speech ideas for college students, teachers, and anyone interested in public speaking. They’re organized into categories to make it easier for you to find one that that genuinely interests you.

In addition to our collection of speech topic ideas, we also have some tips on selecting a  good topic, as well as researchihng, writing, and delivering your persuasive speech.

What Makes a Good Persuasive Speech Topic?

Crafting a persuasive speech or writing a persuasive essay begins with picking the right topic. What makes a good persuasive speech topic? What are the most important factors that make it or break it when it comes to a good persuasive speech topic?

You are much more likely to be successful with your speech when you choose a topic that interests you, rather than merely picking one from a list.

Talking about something you know or would like to know more about well makes it much easier and fun!

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Some speech topics have been done to death. They are tired and stale, and are not likely to excite you or your audience (think abortion, gun control, smoking, same-sex marriage). Find a topic that grabs you and your audience, something new and fresh, unique and original.

  • Interesting

A good persuasive speech topic is one that you can use to grab the audience’s attention, inform and persuade, and provide a strong persuasive argument for adopting your point of view.

You want to pick a topic that your audience cares and what to hear about.

How To Select a Good Persuasive Topic

How to narrow down this list of ideas?

First, make a rough inventory:

  • Which of the speech topics are you interested in?
  • What amuses you, makes you move right the way, happy or sad?
  • Which topics do you know something about?
  • Which topics would you like to research?

Review your inventory list and narrow your choices by answering these questions:

  • Do you know global, national, state, community, job or school-related problems and solutions, issues or controversies, related to the persuasive speech ideas?
  • Are you excited about any historical or current events, places, processes, organizations or interesting people?
  • Do you have certain concerns, opinions, or beliefs?
  • Do you think something has to change in the human attitude or social values?
  • Did you see or hear something in the news or read about in library books on any of these topics?
  • Is there a link with personal experiences, professional or personal goals?

All the answers on the questions above help you to find your angle of approach for a conclusive speech. So, select a few specific angles. Those can serve as the basic main points.

Best 10 Persuasive Speech Topics

Don’t have time to read our full list of 400+ topic ideas? Here is our list of 10 best persuasive speech topics.

  • Money can’t buy love or happiness
  • Cooking should be taught in schools
  • The minimum wage should be increased
  • Advertising is a mind game
  • Introverts make great leaders
  • Eating meat is unethical
  • Anyone under 16 should not be allowed to date
  • Sustainable clothes are not really sustainable
  • The penny coin should be phased out

List of Persuasive Speech Topics

  • Constitutional Issues
  • Easy and Simple
  • Environment
  • Food and Drink
  • Funny and Humorous
  • College Students
  • International Relations
  • Motivational
  • National Security
  • Practical Knowledge
  • Relationships

10 Animal Persuasive Speech Topics

Close Up on Cute Dog Nose and Eyes

  • Should more pets be adopted than bought from a breeder?
  • Are pitbulls a vicious breed?
  • Should a dog that has bitten somebody be executed?
  • Should we tame wild animals like lions and sharks.
  • Should battery farming still be legal?
  • Should ‘factory farming’ be banned?
  • Adopting pets is the best choice.
  • How do puppy mills affect us?
  • The benefits of having pets.
  • Why cats make the perfect pet.

See this page for a full list of Speech Topics About Animals .

12 Automotive Persuasive Speech Topics

Old blue American car stopped on the right side of the road

  • Should the public first learn how to drive a manual transmission before obtaining their license?
  • Drivers should have to take three courses before getting a license.
  • Should young children use booster seats in vehicles?
  • Hands-free cell phone use in cars should be promoted.
  • Should the driving age be 14?
  • The danger of texting and driving.
  • Watch out for animals when driving.
  • Why police should not chase a car.
  • Why you should buy a Japanese car.
  • Why sports cars are dangerous.
  • Driving tests should be free.
  • Share the road with bikes.

10 Business Persuasive Speech Topics

Five people discussing in a meeting room

The world of business has so many aspects to it, but at the end of the day they are all about customer relations, about making money and about the relationship between employers and employees.

Below are topics that can be used to persuade your audience on a variety of business topics.

A tongue in cheek topic that can be used is “Hiring a lazy person isn’t always a bad thing”, this could be used to persuade an audience that often lazy people find the quickest solution to get something done, resulting in quickly completed work because they just want to get it over and done with.

  • Advertising has tons of mind games.
  • Advertising standards should be higher.
  • The importance of understanding niche marketing.
  • Why introverts make good leaders.
  • Owning a business means you will lose your friends.
  • Business will harden you.
  • You should never go into business with family members.
  • Just because someone knows you it doesn’t mean you owe them any discounts.
  • To be a business owner you must learn to be well organized.
  • It’s important that a business should have personality.

See this page for a full list of Persuasive Speech Topics for Business .

5 Constitutional Issues Persuasive Speech Topics

Abraham Lincoln seated figure at the Lincoln Memorial of Washington DC

  • Do you think it would be fair for the government to detain suspected terrorists without proper trial?
  • Should flag burning as a form of protest be prohibited?
  • Should every day begin with a silent prayer at school?
  • Why alcohol should be illegal.
  • Prayer in schools should not be mandatory.

10 Easy and Simple Persuasive Speech Topics

Black glasses aside of a notebook

Below follow topics that should be easy enough to persuade your audience without going into too much research. There are some which can be used as ‘tongue in cheek’ topics such as ‘The paparazzi are the real stalkers’ and ‘People need to visit the dentist more often’.

  • People should not text while driving.
  • Celebrities who break the law should receive stiffer penalties.
  • Teachers should pass a basic exam every few years to renew their certification.
  • Cities should offer free bike-sharing programs.
  • People should eat less junk food.
  • We should do more to end poverty and world hunger.
  • We should value the elders in our society and learn from their wisdom.
  • Money can’t buy love or happiness.
  • Children should be offered incentives for doing right, rather than punishment for wrongdoing.
  • More recycling should be encouraged.

See this page for a full list of Easy and Simple Persuasive Speech Topics .

9 Economy Persuasive Speech Topics

Stock Exchange electronic board with numbers and indicators

  • Should products manufactured outside the U.S. come with an additional tax?
  • Buy products that are made in the USA.
  • Free trade agreements are bad for workers.
  • The trade deficit with China is dangerous.
  • The minimum wage should be increased.
  • Daylight savings time has many advantages for our economy.
  • The oil companies are to blame for the rising energy prices.
  • In most countries the economy is in the mighty hands of just a few multinational corporations.
  • Hiring cheaper foreign employees hurts our economy.

10 Education Persuasive Speech Topics

Students celebrating and launching their square academic caps in the air

  • Teachers should have to pass a test of basic skills every decade to renew their certifications.
  • Should free college tuition be offered to poor children?
  • Would it be better to introduce a set of skills tests for students, before they graduate high school?
  • Do you believe that students who are responsible for cyberbullying should be expelled from school?
  • Would it be better if high school students completed community service hours to graduate?
  • Do you think elementary and high school students should be allowed to use cell phones at school?
  • Should students have to be on the honor roll in order to play sports?
  • Art and music programs in public schools are an essential part of education.
  • Schools should have the right to search students’ personal property (backpacks, lockers, pockets) to fight drugs in schools.
  • Do you think students should be allowed to listen to music during study hall?

See this page for a full list of Education Persuasive Speech Topics .

10 Environment Persuasive Speech Topics

Sun light through a pine forest

  • Should there be stricter laws for protecting endangered species?
  • Should only native plants be grown in gardens?
  • More people should carpool or use public transportation.
  • Should the U.S. limit the use of natural resources?
  • How pollution is negatively affecting humanity.
  • We should use algae to make oil instead of drilling.
  • Why hydraulic fracturing should be banned.
  • Why we shouldn’t use disposable diapers.
  • Hybrid cars are good for the environment.
  • We should keep our community clean.

See this page for a full list of Environmental Persuasive Speech Topics .

10 Ethics Persuasive Speech Topics

Six hands holding each others

  • Do you think female construction workers should have the same salary as male construction workers?
  • Should assisted suicide be legal for people who suffer from terminal illnesses?
  • Do you think the death penalty is the best punishment for dangerous criminals?
  • Should you base your perspective of people on stereotypes you have heard?
  • Should product testing on animals or humans be allowed?
  • Why you should not choose your child’s genetics.
  • Are people morally obligated to help the poor?
  • Female genital mutilation should be stopped.
  • Is it ethical to eat meat?
  • Wearing fur is unethical.

10 Family Persuasive Speech Topics

A dad and a mother walking in the grass with their two young kids

  • Should underaged people be allowed to consume alcohol at home, with parental permission?
  • Should children 13 or younger be allowed to watch music videos or music channels like MTV?
  • Do you think those older than 13 should be allowed into R-rated movies?
  • Should teenagers be allowed to purchase violent video games?
  • Is it appropriate for children to watch horror movies?
  • Those under 16 should not be allowed to date.
  • Parental pressure on child actors and athletes is harmful.
  • Why parents should not hit their children.
  • Fairy tales are good for young children.
  • Why kids should not play R rated games.

See this page for a full list of Family Persuasive Speech Topics . We also have a page with Speech Topics for Kids .

6 Fashion Persuasive Speech Topics

Wardrobe with dark, grey and blue man suits

  • Men should wear pink.
  • Choose an Eco-Fashion Fabrics Wardrobe!
  • Are Sustainable Clothes Really Sustainable?
  • Jewelry: Less Is More.
  • Fashion Reveals Your True Identity.
  • Fashion Is An Expression Of The Character

11 Financial Persuasive Speech Topics

Hands counting and stacking coins

  • Why banks should ban hats and sunglasses to avoid robberies.
  • Student loans should be forgiven.
  • Reservation casinos are only beneficial if managed correctly.
  • National debt is everyones problem.
  • Purchasing a car is smarter than leasing one.
  • The Japanese yen is affected by the weakness of the dollar.
  • The Euro currency will oust the dollar.
  • The Chinese Yuan / Japanese Yen / European Euro will all surpass the Dollar as leading currency.
  • Phase the penny coin out.
  • Severe budget cuts are the only way to maximise good financial results.
  • Keeping a close eye on personal finance is key in achieving something in life.

15 Food and Drink Persuasive Speech Topics

Strawberry cake and cup of coffee

  • Genetically modified foods should be labeled.
  • Do you believe companies who manufacture alcohol should be allowed to advertise on TV?
  • Every child should learn to cook.
  • Cooking should be taught in schools.
  • Should we donate unused food from supermarkets?
  • The history of added sugar in our food.
  • We should all grow our own vegetables.
  • Eat more fruits and vegetables.
  • The promise of genetically engineered food.
  • Why peanuts are amazing.
  • Drink more orange juice.
  • Why people should cook.
  • Farmers’ markets should be increased.
  • Eating organic is good for your health.
  • Get artificial hormones out of food.

See this page for a full list of Speech Topic Ideas On Food, Drink, and Cooking .

10 Fun Persuasive Speech Topics

Young man jumping into the Caribbean sea with floating ring

Fun topics are a great way to get people to listen to what you have to say, because when they are entertained they listen more carefully. Fun topics also help the speaker be more at ease, because the topics are more relaxed. Below follow 100 topics that you can have fun with while persuading your audience. .

  • Ghosts are not real.
  • We all need to be childish.
  • Smokers have more acquaintances.
  • Music has the power to heal.
  • Diamonds are a girls best friends.
  • Couples need to live together before getting married.
  • Allow kids to believe in Santa.
  • Pick up lines do work.
  • Cake is not cake if it is dry.
  • Parents must be prepared for the ‘birds and bees’ talk.

See this page for a full list of Fun Persuasive Speech Topics .

10 Funny and Humorous Persuasive Speech Topics

Two men with hats laughing together

Humour is a fabulous way to get people’s attention. Below are questions and statement topics that can be used to get your points across on a variety of topics.

It is important to remember that there can be a fine line between funny and insulting. So use wit and make it fun without insulting your audience. This would be important to remember with a title like ‘The most dangerous animal out there is a silent woman’.

  • Blondes are not as dumb as they look.
  • Why funny pick-up lines work.
  • Guys gossip more than girls do.
  • You should not be Facebook friends with your mom.
  • If things go wrong, your horoscope is to blame.
  • Students should not have to do a persuasive speech in front of a large audience.
  • Millennials should stop wearing spandex yoga pants all the time.
  • Dads are more fun than moms.
  • Argumentative essays are pointless.
  • Shoes that don’t fit right are hazardous to your health.

See this page for a full list of Funny Persuasive Speech Topics .

16 Government Persuasive Speech Topics

Front view of the White House with gardens and fountains

  • Do you believe there should be stricter federal restrictions regarding content on the internet?
  • Should employers be required to post job opportunities on a government-run website?
  • The government should provide shelter for the homeless.
  • Should the state fund schools run by religions?
  • Whose face should be printed on the newest bank note?
  • Do you believe Puerto Rico should become a state?
  • Our nation’s justice system needs to be improved.
  • Should the government have a say in our diets?
  • The military budget must be decreased.
  • Should people get drug tested for state aid?
  • How policy works in local government.
  • The government should increase funding of Amtrak.
  • Fixing potholes should be a priority of local government.
  • Eminent domain should be used rarely.
  • The war on drugs is a failure.
  • Zoning laws should be common sense.

10 Health Persuasive Speech Topics

Doctor's hands mesuering blood presure of a patient

  • Female minors should be allowed to get birth control without telling their parents.
  • Should stem cell researchers be able to use cells from aborted babies to help cure diseases?
  • Should doctors be allowed to prescribe contraception for girls under 16?
  • Do you think it would be better if the USA had a universal health care system?
  • Do you believe free condoms should be distributed in schools?
  • Regular exercise will improve your health.
  • Restaurants should post all ingredients to prevent allergic reactions.
  • Do you believe fast food should come with a warning label?
  • The use of animals in medical research is a necessary evil.
  • Seat belts ensure all passengers a safer ride.

See this page for a full list of Persuasive Speech Topics on Health and Fitness . We also have a page with Medical Topics .

10 School Persuasive Speech Topics

Two kids writing on a school desk

School is a whole new world, where students discover more about themselves and life around them. These are topics that students will most likely have to deal with at some point during their elementary, middle, and high school careers.

  • High school students should be allowed to have cell phones in school.
  • High school students should not have to wear school uniforms.
  • All high school students should learn a foreign language.
  • Girls should be allowed to play on the boys’ sports teams.
  • High school students should be required to do community service.
  • Extracurricular activities are important for your future.
  • Students should be able to stay up late, even on school nights.
  • Peer pressure helps students grow as individuals.
  • Students should have healthy food options.
  • Students should be paid for getting good grades.

See this page for a full list of Persuasive Speech Topics for School Students .

10 College Students Persuasive Speech Topics

College empty classroom with wood seats

The following topics are for college students and about the many different aspects that they will deal with during their time in college.

  • College textbooks should be replaced by iPads.
  • Mobile phones should be switched off during a lecture.
  • College students shouldn’t skip classes.
  • Students shouldn’t study something that they are not passionate about.
  • Gap years are actually a very good idea.
  • Notes should always be taken in class.
  • Student loans are expensive and students need to understand what they are getting themselves into.
  • Students should get to know other students.
  • It’s smart to get the harder classes out of the way first.
  • Taking summer classes will help students get ahead of schedule.

See this page for a full list of Persuasive Speech Topics for College Students .

10 Teens Persuasive Speech Topics

Group of four teenager friends

The following topics are aimed at teens and subjects which are important and matter to teens.

  • Teenage girls should be on birth control.
  • Teenage boys are lazier than girls.
  • Teens should have weekend jobs.
  • Homework should not be given.
  • Being popular isn’t a good thing.
  • Teens are obsessed with scary things.
  • Chores shouldn’t be paid for.
  • Sex education must be compulsory.
  • Exchange student programs for all students.
  • Free time gets teens into trouble.

See this page for a full list of Great Speech Topics for Teens .

5 History Persuasive Speech Topics

Gladiator helmet laid on an ancient stone bench

  • Did the U.S. Army provide their soldiers drugs during the Vietnam war?
  • African- American achievements should be celebrated.
  • Why Lincoln was the best President.
  • Revisionist history is dangerous.
  • The moon landing was a lie.

See this page for a full list of History Speech Topics .

10 Interesting Persuasive Speech Topics

Back of a man staring at a wall covered by paper notes and draws

Interesting topics will always have an audience glued to every word, even when they may disagree with your point of view. Ultimately it is your job to persuade them that your view is in fact correct.

These topics have a mix of simpler speeches such as “Pick up lines do work” here both humour and a few examples of pick up lines have worked will get you going in the right direction. For a speech with a bit more research put into it there are topics such as “Stem cell research in murder”.

  • The standards of beauty are never the same.
  • Princess Diana was killed.
  • Energy drinks are dangerous.
  • School day needs to involve less sitting and more exercise.
  • No credit cards for under 25.
  • Healthy relationships require conflicts.
  • Everyone needs medical insurance.
  • Tooth whitening is out of control.
  • In future air planes won’t crash.
  • Business should hire more apprentices.

See this page for a full list of Persuasive Interesting Speech Topics .

13 International Relations Persuasive Speech Topics

World map with pined color flags

  • Do you think it is time for the United States to suspend overseas military operations?
  • The U.S. should cut off all foreign aid to dictatorships.
  • Why you should volunteer in a developing country.
  • Should Scotland be a country of its own?
  • China will be the next superpower.
  • Is any nation truly independent?
  • Should women drive in Saudi Arabia?
  • Foreign oil dependence is dangerous.
  • Weapons disarmament should be increased.
  • The war in Iraq was a mistake.
  • The United Nations is important in defusing international crises.
  • Human rights should be advanced all over the world.
  • China will be the almighty economic superpower by 2025.

10 Law Persuasive Speech Topics

Close view of a gavel and its sound block

  • Should those who are caught driving after consuming alcohol lose their driver’s license for one year?
  • Should it be illegal to drive while talking on the phone?
  • Should illegal music and movie downloads be prosecuted?
  • Do you believe illegal immigrants should be allowed to apply for a driver’s license?
  • Should motorcyclists have to wear a helmet?
  • People over 65 should be required to take a bi-annual driver’s test.
  • Should the driving age be raised to 21?
  • Should assault weapons be legal?
  • Should known gang members be prohibited from public parks?
  • Do you think it should be illegal for people to curse on TV during daytime?

See this page for a full list of Legal Speech Topics .

3 Literature Persuasive Speech Topics

Two opened books stacked

  • Why reading is more beneficial than watching television.
  • Why it is a good idea to read Fifty Shades of Grey.
  • Why people need to read more books.

17 Media Persuasive Speech Topics

Screen with thumbnails of different medias

  • Why it’s wrong for the media to promote a certain beauty standard.
  • Is the media responsible for the moral degradation of teens?
  • Do magazines marketed to teenagers send the wrong message?
  • Why Disney should not be making Star Wars movies.
  • Why you should study photography.
  • Should certain T.V. shows have age restrictions?
  • Why the media is to blame for eating disorders.
  • The media does not force us to worship false icons.
  • Why the Russian should have beat Rocky.
  • Television is harmful to children.
  • Why comic books are good to read.
  • Some TV shows are educational.
  • Make TV more educational.
  • We need more funding for public television and radio.
  • Violence on television should be regulated.
  • Cable TV monopolies destroy competition.
  • Katniss Everdeen would alienate Harry Potter.

10 Motivational Persuasive Speech Topics

Woman rising up fists in the air

  • School leaders must shape high-achieving learning curricula for students.
  • Set a clear goal and devote all your positive energy toward reaching it.
  • What to do for people who have no motivation to live a happy life.
  • The art of moral imagination is the key to intellectual and spiritual development.
  • Why it is hard to follow your dream.
  • What keep most of us from following the voice of your heart when it comes to love or even discovery travelling?
  • Overcome your stage fright and fear of public speaking.
  • Begin with forming a moral tool set when children are young and build further when they are at least 18 years old.
  • Aim straightforward in whatever project you undertake, and emphasize and evaluate what you want to achieve often in between the completed parts of the total planning.
  • Prudence is an effort you can turn non-believers into believers in your plans.

See this page for a full list of Speech Topics For Motivational Speaking .

6 Music Persuasive Speech Topics

Young woman listening to music with phone and headset

  • Why the French horn should be played more.
  • Should schools allow uncensored songs at school dances?
  • How listening to music could improve your day.
  • Why music is beneficial to society.
  • MP3 music should be free.
  • Rock music is better than Country & Western.

6 National Security Persuasive Speech Topics

Soldier standing in front of the American flag

  • Are intensive security screenings essential for those who travel in airplanes?
  • Negotiating with terrorists is sometimes justifiable.
  • Should police carry firearms?
  • Homosexuals belong in the military.
  • Women benefit the military in many ways.
  • Should police carry toy guns?

10 Politics Persuasive Speech Topics

Voted stickers for American poll

  • Should it be legal for politicians to accept campaign contributions from corporate lobbyists?
  • Why you should vote.
  • Ban abusive language in elections.
  • Why you should know Bernie Sanders.
  • Term limits need to be respected.
  • Give Kurdistan back to the Kurds.
  • Zimbabwe is the next drama in world politics.
  • Central Asian states could become a threat.
  • America is not the world’s policeman.
  • Globalization pays off.

See this page for a full list of Speech Topics about Politics .

3 Practical Knowledge Persuasive Speech Topics

Gloved hands lighting up a wood fire with a striker

  • Basic survival skills are important to know.
  • Basic camping skills everyone should know.
  • Personal hygiene is important for professional success.

7 Psychology Persuasive Speech Topics

Dummy head with draws and notes on it

  • Intelligence depends more on the environment than genetics.
  • Human development depends primarily on environmental factors.
  • Why we should not see psychologists.
  • Why do we need to love and to be loved?
  • Can money give you happiness?
  • Why introverts make the best public speakers.
  • Verbal abuse can be much more destructive than physical.

See this page for a full list of Psychology Speech Topics .

23 Relationships Persuasive Speech Topics

Man and woman holding their hand and walking on the beach at dawn

  • Should young people have internet relationships?
  • Men and women speak a different language of love.
  • Long distance relationships are possible.
  • Why it is important to live together before marriage.
  • Teens should live with their friends once a week.
  • Jealousy can be a disease.
  • Most people say they will break up with a cheating partner, but in the end most people do not.
  • Counseling is the solution for working through relationship problems.
  • Intimacy is the key to a successful relationship.
  • Women cheat more than men do.
  • Interreligious Relationships – Love between two people can never be forbidden.
  • Arranged marriages must be outlawed.
  • Asking someone to wear a condom shows a lack of trust.
  • Celibacy is outdated.
  • Cheating isn’t wrong if you do it well.
  • Co-workers should never date.
  • Dating behavior rules are simple for girls: No means No, not Yes.
  • Living together before marriage will lower the divorce rate.
  • Men and women speak different languages in love matters.
  • People only need one good friend.
  • Polygamy should be allowed.
  • You will learn most from friends that are different from you.
  • Romance works best the old fashioned way.

8 Religion Persuasive Speech Topics

Praying hands in front of an altar enlighten with candles

  • Should public schools teach world religions?
  • Students should be allowed to pray in school.
  • Women should be priests.
  • Religious conflict must be avoided.
  • Why Islam is a peaceful religion.
  • Islamic fundamentalism is not true Islam.
  • Religious cults are dangerous.
  • Faith in God should be protected.

See this page for a full list of Topics on Religion and Spirituality .

10 Science Persuasive Speech Topics

Gloved hand shaking a flask in a laboratory

  • Do you think the United States government should spend more on space programs?
  • Why should we be aware of what is happening in outer space?
  • Why Pluto should still be considered a planet.
  • Mars was the same as Earth in the past.
  • Why you should donate your body to science.
  • We need more scientific advancements.
  • Qualitative research is more preferable than quantitative research.
  • Religion and science do not mix. (Or: they do.)
  • Scientists have the duty to translate their findings in normal language.
  • Theories are useless if they can not be transformed into strategies.

See this page for a full list of Persuasive Science Speech Topics .

11 Self-Help Persuasive Speech Topics

Dark silhouette offering an helping hand

  • Art is a stress reliever and can reduce depression.
  • With hardwork and determination anyone can be successful.
  • Why we should live life spontaneously.
  • Improve your time management.
  • Embarrassing moments make you stronger.
  • Be true to yourself.
  • Dress for success.
  • How to continue your personal growth.
  • The importance of self- confidence.
  • If you don’t give up, you’ll make it.
  • Talking to yourself can be beneficial.

10 Society Persuasive Speech Topics

People crossing a city street

  • Should larger passengers be obliged to purchase two plane tickets, or two movie tickets?
  • Should American families have no more than two children, in order to control population growth?
  • Should property owners be obliged to clean the snow from sidewalks on their property?
  • Should there be a cop in every bar to make sure people do not drink and drive?
  • Do you believe that older people should receive free bus rides?
  • Should all citizens of the USA complete one year of community service?
  • Do you believe it is time for America to use the metric system?
  • Why it should be mandatory for all students to stand for the pledge.
  • Do you believe that cities should provide free wireless internet?
  • Why living in the country is better than the city.

See this page for a full list of Persuasive Society Speech Topics .

10 Sport Persuasive Speech Topics

US Football player diving with the ball

Some sports topics can quickly turn into an argument between fans so keep in mind that special care should be taken with some of the suggested topics.

The term soccer was used to distinguished between soccer and American football, feel free to use the term football for those countries that do not use the term soccer.

  • Should some musical groups, such as marching band and show choir, be considered a sport?
  • Do you think cities should have a bike sharing system?
  • Should college athletes be paid?
  • Why baseball players should take drug tests before playing.
  • High school football programs should receive less funding.
  • Female sports should be given equal coverage by the media.
  • Should drug tests be mandatory for professional athletes?
  • Should athletes be paid less?
  • Should drug tests be mandatory for school athletes?
  • Winning is not as important as trying your best.

See this page for a full list of Persuasive Sports Speech Topics .

28 Technology Persuasive Speech Topics

Server's rack of hard drives with LEDs

  • Google and other search engines will be the death of libraries.
  • Make sure to backup your computer files several times a day.
  • What kind of influence will technology have on our future?
  • Printing photos is better than keeping them on a computer.
  • Do you believe internet censorship is inappropriate?
  • Should nuclear power be used?
  • How technology will change our lives.
  • Internet could do more to free deaf people from their social isolation.
  • Should screen time also be limited for adults?
  • Why the government should regulate technology.
  • Technology is making people less creative.
  • Technology has made life better.
  • Why Microsoft Word products should be free.
  • Why you should not buy an iPhone.
  • Anti-piracy software does not work.
  • Internet chatrooms are not safe.
  • The amount of spam you see in your mailbox is just the tip of the iceberg.
  • We are addicted to the internet.
  • Put down your phone and connect with people.
  • Electronics are making kids lazy.
  • How does a search engine work?
  • Apple music should be free.
  • The importance of the internet.
  • Internet gambling needs more regulation.
  • Computer literacy should be increased.
  • The importance of internet fraud awareness.
  • Why selfies are a thing of the past.
  • People who say they do not need or want to use the world wide web are insane.

12 Travel Persuasive Speech Topics

Hand holding a small world globe

  • Why you should go to Bermuda.
  • Why airline tickets should be cheaper.
  • Traveling makes you more open-minded.
  • Always report travel complaints as soon as possible when back home.
  • Backpacking means every day unexpected adventures if you are open for it
  • If there was no tourism there would be much more poverty.
  • Support eco-tourism.
  • Tourism ruins historical sites and there should be placed warning signs to awake them.
  • Extreme air turbulence can be fatal.
  • Fly First Class at least once in your lifetime.
  • The best way to travel is in a guided group.
  • Antarctica should be closed for tourists and scientists

8 Workplace Persuasive Speech Topics

Desk with notes, papers, coffee and laptop

  • Should large corporations hire a number of minorities that are proportionate to the population?
  • Do you think 14 year olds should be allowed to hold jobs?
  • Why you should choose a high paying job over a fun job.
  • Why everyone should work retail once in their life.
  • Tipping should be mandatory in restaurants.
  • Women make better managers than men.
  • The importance of office parties.
  • Labor unions should be protected.

Our list of topics is by far the best list you will find online – both in terms of quantity and quality. We add and remove ideas weekly to keep the list up-to-date.

Many timely persuasive speech topics can be found on radio, TV, your local newspaper, or your Facebook and Twitter feeds. We also have Argumentative (which is a type of persuasive speech on a controversial issue) and Policy topics . If you know of a cool topic, please send it to us and we will publish it on our page with fresh topics.

For persuasive essay topic ideas have a look at our list of Interesting Research Paper topics : these can be easily adapted for persuasive speeches.

Write a Gripping Personal Narrative Essay Using Our Cheat Guide

Vote of Thanks Examples

50 thoughts on “434 Good Persuasive Speech Topics”

Thank You! 🙂 Very helpful and inspiring and you get a good laugh out of these topics, wish me luck on my test.

That was some awesome topics for my college presentation thanks for the help 🙂

Thank you so much i got a 82 on my speech! I talked about how women don’t have rights, and that they should be in the kitchen. Thank you again!!!

These topics are good I like give speech. Speech good for speaking. thank for topics

Why smoking can help you make friends

These topic are good. Thank you so much..

Really helpful, I pro-formed a speech outlining why exactly unfaithful thots should be be vanquished from our society. Got a 69.

Thanks so much! I did a speech on the unfaithful thots of our society and the plague being wrought upon the population. We need a solution. Some might say a final, solution.

These topics are great. Thank you

OMG thank you sooooo mush you literally saved my life.

Thankkkk youuuuuuuuuuuuu sooooo much these topics are amazing and thank you for saving my life my speech was why airlines should be cheeper and i got a 99

Great topics but there is no R rating for video games. (Family, Topic 10)

Thank you so much this was really helpful!!!!

these are good topics because im in 5th grade in my class right now and we are starting pursasive right now

Why sex education important

Are pitbulls a vicious breed

Germany is the best

Does Lightning McQueen have Life Insurance or Car Insurance ?

Correction: why cats make the purrfect pet.

thank you this is a very helpful and inspiring topics

These were good and helpful. This was exactly what I needed for my speech. Thanks to whoever came up with all of these.

Thank you so much. My speech on getting Belle Delphine banned got 69%

Thank you so much, this was inspiring and helpful.

ok, so I know im the only one that did this but its actually 414 speech topics so!!!!!11

This was v helpful- thank you! i did that Princess Diana was murdered and was very easy to be passionate about it – thx again!

very nice. help alot.me like moon landing one. thought was funny.

i love ThiS website SO MUCH it helped me with my speech endlessly and will be forever greatful xxx <3 <3

Why water causes cancer

Why Sped kids should have more special attention in schools?

-Tax the freaking pants off the 1%

-Only highly education education specialists should make laws regarding education

-Schools should implement standards that require more recess and P.E. and no homework

did a speach on koalas being nuclearly reactive thx sm

please tell kate to stop trying to help with my academics in writing thanks xx

Should kids be allowed to kick their parents out of the house when they get caught doing bad things

cheating isnt wrong if you do it well

i personally think that this website helped a lot i think you should add a kpop section just for who is interester ^0^ thank you 🙂

I made a speech explaining why toothbrushing should be mandatory and it got a 69

thanks so much i got a 69 on my speech about free robux

thanks bro i got a 69% on my speech about how i would eat henrique all night

Couldn’t find a topic but site was amazing! Henrique on the other hand

thanks got me a 100

Those were so helpful wish me luck on my test

henrique is kind of annoying but a good website

i’m thinking a speech on the flash sounds perfect.

Thank youuu so muchhh!!!!!! This was so helpful and rly helped me find new perspectives to look from. I wrote my speech on how men are animals, have no rights, and should be locked in mines and milked for their semen. I also found out im pregnant guys!!!! Time to find out if it’s a girl or an abortion!!!!!

I got the best speech topic.thank goodness.I only got an hour to finish.

why can’t we make toast in the bath

Why teens shouldn’t have sex before marriage.

I laughed so hard at “students should not have to do a persuasive speech in front of public audiences”

is this the real life, or is it just a fantasy?

this site was so good i found nothing! thank goodness i got a 0% my grades are rising

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  • Essay Topics

100 Persuasive Essay Topics to Start Enjoying Academic Writing

Hundreds of students look for good persuasive essay topics every day. There is nothing surprising as writing papers is a common task teachers assign. They love persuasive essays in particular because these sharpen critical thinking and stimulate creativity. This is the kind of writing where you prove your argument and persuade your audience. Your claims should be supported by evidence, but ultimately, persuasive essays can be less objective than argumentative ones.

For the most part, you should rely on the power of your persuasion, even if your persuasion topics are silly or downright wrong. That’s the fun and importance of such tasks: students can practice their ability to be convincing, and the grade they’ll receive will be the reflection of their success. If you know how to select strong evidence, be creative, you’ll write great essays. But first, you should choose an interesting topic, and that’s where problems could start.

Tips For Choosing Interesting and Easy Topics

If someone is looking for topics to write a persuasive essay on, passion toward a topic is the most solid foundation of success. If you have deep interest in a specific subject, you stand a better chance of making others see it in the same way. Sharing your vision is a skill, and you can gain it after thorough practice. So, when choosing topics for persuasive speech, start going through your preferences. What are you interested in? Maybe you were engaged in some debate on Reddit, YouTube, or similar sites — what were they about? If you have a favorite movie, think about its characters: perhaps you could find a topic based on their interests. Same goes to your friends and family members — they could offer cook ideas you haven’t considered before.

Another tip concerns the amount of research available on certain persuasive writing topics. Before settling on anything, you should make sure that there are enough studies you could use for supporting your point. If you really want to explore a subject but no scholars have worked on it before, this won’t be a good idea, at least not for a general college essay. In addition, your topic should be narrow. This is a crucial tip: don’t be distracted by the thought that general theme is easier to explore. You must present a specific and narrowly defined argument, so, for example, if you’re interested in food, don’t just write about it as a whole. Focus on healthy or harmful food, on allergies, etc. This way, you’ll have a catchy subject to research.

100 Best Persuasive Essay Ideas

We picked ten large categories and came up with 10 cool topics for each of them. Read through them all — we tried to make them both engaging and refreshing. Feel free to use anything that you feel you might be interested in exploring.

Social Issues Prompts

As a society, we face constant problems and arguments, and not all of them are resolved despite the modern development. Here are persuasive argument topics on this issue.

  • Are Stereotypes Helpful In Assessing People’s Personalities?
  • No Photos of Celebrities Should Be Published Without Their Agreement
  • Life Conditions Deteriorate Every Year
  • Bringing a Child Up With & Without Punishments: Which Is Better?
  • Rudeness Help People Succeed More Than Politeness
  • 4- vs. 5-Day Work Week: What Is the Best Model for Modern Generation?
  • Tired People Become Depressed More Often
  • Email or Letter: Better and More Effective Way of Communication
  • Any Proven Case of School Bullying Should Result in Immediate Expulsion
  • Special Communication Courses  Should Be Started for Socially Awkward Children and Teens

Persuasive Essays Topics on Nature and Animals

It’s difficult to find a person who doesn’t like animals, but how about researching them? Take a look at the best persuasive essay topics below.

  • Eating Meat Is a Mild Form of Animal Cruelty That Should Be Punished
  • Usage of Animals in Vaccine Testing Must Be Stopped As Soon As Possible
  • Nature Preservation Lectures Should Be Obligatory for People of All Ages
  • Police and Other Service Animals Should Receive an Actual Salary
  • Visiting Pet Shelters & Helping Them to Exist Should Be a Law
  • Earth Would Feel Better Without Humans Living on It
  • What is the Worst/Best Pet in Existence?
  • Should Euthanasia for Pets Be Illegal Even If They Are Gravely Ill?
  • Snakes Are Writers’ Best Friends
  • Diapers in Their Current Form Are Dangerous and Their Production Should Be Stopped

Medical and Healthcare Prompts

Making sense of medical ideas for persuasive essay can be tough — they require patience and knowledge. But on the other hand, this fact just makes them all the more interesting!

  • Medical Checkups Should Be Free
  • Being Mentally Ill Has Become a Trend Among Teens
  • Numbers of Cases of COVID-19 Are Exaggerated For Financial and Manipulation Purposes
  • Medical Case of David Vetter: Parents Had to be Stopped by the Personnel
  • Information on Marijuana Usefulness Should Be Promoted Internationally
  • A Vaccine That Has Not Been Studied For At Least Two Years Is Inadmissible
  • Medical Stereotypes Aren’t Harmless, They Are Deadly
  • Medics Should Promote “Make Alcohol Illegal” Campaign
  • Nurses Will Never Be Replaced by Computers
  • Family-Assisted Suicide for Medical Reasons Should Never Become Legal

Controversial Ideas

Exploring heated themes is both challenging and exciting! Look at good topics for a persuasive essay of this kind.

  • Promotion of Homophobic & Racist Stereotypes Should Be Considered Hate Speech
  • Looting During Protests Is A Serious Crime That Has to Be Punished Regardless of Circumstances
  • The World Should Maintain The Current State of Quarantine For Over a Year
  • USA and Russia Should Become Allies
  • Rumors Around COVID-19 Are Worse Than the Actual Problem
  • Talent Does Not Exist: Anyone Can Do Anything with Practice
  • USSR Was The Best Place for Living
  • Men Must Have No Say In Anything Related to Abortion Legality
  • Incomes of the Rich Should Be Disclosed Publicly
  • Cremation Should Be the Only Acceptable Way of Burial These Days

Politics and Government Persuasive Essay Topic Ideas

Do you enjoy discussing, investigating, and cursing politics? If you do, you might enjoy looking through ideas for persuasive essays below.

  • Single Parents Should Receive Increased Governmental Support
  • Governments Whose Countries Start Wars Should Be Automatically Dismissed
  • Past Countries of USSR Should Unite Once More
  • Dishonest Political Campaigns Should Be Considered a Crime
  • Government Members Shouldn’t Have Any Immunity
  • A Person Deserving to Be New Face of American Dollar
  • Who Is the Most Useless President in the World?
  • Prison Cells Must Be Replaced by Special Monitored Apartments
  • Sanctions Against Russia Harm Populations
  • Wars Should Be Forcefully Stopped by Other Countries

Art and Culture Persuasive Ideas

If you like creativity and culture, you’ll be able to easily find a great topic for a persuasive essay.

  • Learning Music Is More Productive Than Being an Artist
  • Music Should Be an  Inherent Part of Curriculum
  • Romanticized Violence In Fiction Doesn’t Normalize It In Real Life
  • TV Show ‘Hannibal’ Shouldn’t Have Been  Cancelled
  • Visiting Museums Is The Best Way to Preserve Culture
  • Regulating Fiction Must Be Illegal
  • Celebrities Shouldn’t Be Anyone’s Role Models
  • Hatred for ‘Twilight’ Is Overblown: It Is Caused by Misogyny
  • Queerbaiting Is Offensive and Media Should Pay More Negative Attention to It
  • Problematic Portrayal of an Issue or a Person in Fiction Still Deserves to Exist

Science Ideas

Not everyone likes science – it’s a complex branch that requires a lot of research, some knowledge, and daring mindset. But for those who love it, here’s a choice of good topics for persuasive essays.

  • In Reality, No Person Has Ever Visited the Moon In the Way It Was Portrayed
  • Solar Energy Should Replace Other Kinds of Electricity Within the Next Year
  • Astrology Should Never Become  Real Science
  • Obsession with Astrological Signs Is Dangerous For Their Mental State
  • Science Scholarships Should Be Increased
  • Nuclear Weapons Must Be Eliminated Regardless of Countries’ Agreement
  • Danger of Future Robots Usage Is Exaggerated
  • The Existence of Supernatural Can Be Proven
  • Nothing New Is Discovered: Old Discoveries Are Recycled
  • People with No Education Can Be the Best Scientists

Education Persuasive Essay Prompts

All students could find a persuasive essay topic for college from this category that they would like — after all, education is something they all relate to.

  • One Perfect Academic Paragraph Should Be No Less Than 200 Words
  • Ability to Spell Correctly Is the Foundation of College Success
  • Homework Has to Be Eliminated as a Construct
  • American Education System Is Deficient and Should Be Restructured
  • Religious Beliefs Have No Place in Modern Education
  • Children Should Receive Sex Education From Their Early Years
  • Country That Has the Best Education Model in the World: Reasons & Evidence
  • Race and Real Name of a Student Should Not Be Mentioned In Their Application Form
  • Free University Education Is Possible in the USA
  • Studying 5 Days per Week Is Impossible & Ineffective

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Crime Topics for Persuasive Essays

Are you passionate about criminology or criminal law? If so, we’ve devised some easy persuasive essay topics that will allow you to explore what you like!

  • Better Social Services Could Contribute to Diminishing the Number of Future Criminals
  • Most Cold Cases Can Be Solved if Enough Efforts Are Invested Into Them
  • Quality of Security Cameras Should Be Enhanced Mandatorily All Over the Country
  • JonBenét Ramsey’s Case Must Be Re-investigated From the Start
  • Prison Conditions Make People Into Hardened Criminals
  • Proven Cases of Torture Has to Result In Death Penalty & Speedy Execution
  • The Execution of Legal Death Sentence Shouldn’t Take So Much Time
  • Income and Position in Society Affect the Severity of Legal Punishment
  • All Calls About Potentially Missing People Should Receive Instant Attention
  • 911 Operators Should Be Taught and Trained Better

History Persuasive Prompts

Check this list if the thought about our past makes your heart beat faster. You’re likely to find your persuasive essay topic here.

  • Historical Crimes Have to Be Investigated No Matter How Many Years Pass
  • US Behaviour in Wars Over the Last 80 Years
  • US Has Had a Hand in All Genocides Occurring in the Recent World History
  • The Figure of Merlin in History: He Existed For Real
  • The Impacts of Slavery in US Is Still Vivid Today
  • Nazi Germany Has Made Numerous Useful Contributions to the Current Science
  • History Doesn’t Exist: We Twist It to Suit Our Needs
  • Dinosaurs Looked Different From How We Imagine Them Based on Their Bones
  • The Most Important Historical Event Ever Occurring
  • Bible as the Historical Construct: It Was Created In Accordance with Norms of That Time

Find Good Persuasive Speech Topics

We hope that you managed to find an exciting topic among the prompts we presented. If not, keep looking! Remember that your personal interest means the world in tasks such as this: popular topics don’t always mean that you’d enjoy researching them, so you should look for anything that makes you want to discuss it. In case you settled on a theme but still aren’t sure how to write an essay on it, search for help. We have writers and editors who are always ready to assist students with their tasks, so just drop us a line and we’ll gladly share our expertise, selecting interesting persuasive speech topics for you or helping you write an essay!

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Persuasive Essay Topics

Caleb S.

A Catalogue of 300 Best Persuasive Essay Topics for Students

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Persuasive Essay Topics

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Finding a persuasive essay topic, whether controversial or every day, can be a real challenge. A persuasive essay topic should clearly showcase your stance on the matter. 

But don't worry! You’re not alone in this. 

That’s why we’ve created an extensive list of diverse persuasive essay topics. Covering different grade levels and academic themes, you’re sure to find a good persuasive essay topic.

So, read on to pick your topic!

Arrow Down

  • 1. Basics of Persuasive Essay Writing  
  • 2. Persuasive Essay Topics for Students of All Grades
  • 3. Subject-Specific Persuasive Essay Ideas
  • 4. Persuasive Essay Topics by Complexity
  • 5. Persuasive Argumentative Essay Topics
  • 6. Controversial Persuasive Essay Topics
  • 7. Unique Persuasive Essay Topics Ideas
  • 8. Easy Persuasive Essay Topics
  • 9. Fun Persuasive Essay Topics
  • 10. Tips to Choose a Persuasive Essay Topic

Basics of Persuasive Essay Writing  

A persuasive essay is all about convincing your readers to see things from your point of view. Think of it as a debate on paper. You pick a topic, take a stance, and then use evidence and reasoning to make your case. 

In this type of essay , your goal should be to persuade your audience to agree with your perspective or take action based on your argument. 

A persuasive essay is often mixed up with an argumentative essay . Both try to convince readers, but persuasive essays appeal more to emotions, while argumentative essays use logic and evidence. It can also be confused with an expository essay , which aims to inform rather than persuade, focusing on presenting facts without pushing a specific viewpoint.

Persuasive Essay Topics for Students of All Grades

In this section, we’ll explore persuasive essay topics suited for students at all levels, from elementary school up to college and university. Whether you're just starting out or are deep into your studies, there's a topic here for you.

Persuasive Essay Topics For Grade 5

  • Should Schools Have Longer Recess Periods?
  • Should Homework Be Banned in Elementary School?
  • Should All Students Be Required to Learn a Second Language?
  • Should Animals Be Used in Science Experiments?
  • Should Every Student Get a Pet in School?
  • Should School Lunches Be Healthier?
  • Should Students Be Allowed to Use Smartphones in Class?
  • Should All Classrooms Have Air Conditioning?
  • Should Kids Have a Say in What They Learn in School?
  • Discuss the Benefits of Allowing More Field Trips in School.

Persuasive Writing Topics For Grade 6

  • All Students Should Wear Uniforms
  • Should Students Have Less School Work Over the Weekend?
  • Should Schools Offer More Creative Arts Classes?
  • Should Physical Education Be Mandatory Every Day?
  • Should Schools Have a No-Phone Policy During Lunch?
  • Should All Students Participate in Community Service?
  • Should Video Games Be Used as Educational Tools in Class?
  • Should Schools Limit the Amount of Time Students Spend on Technology?
  • Should Students Be Allowed to Choose Their Own Study Subjects?
  • Discuss the Impact of School Libraries on Student Learning.

Persuasive Essay Topics For Grade 7

  • Should Schools Offer More Extracurricular Activities?
  • Should Students Be Allowed to Have Breaks During Long Exams?
  • Should Schools Implement a Four-Day School Week?
  • Should All Students Be Taught Financial Literacy?
  • Should Kids Have More Control Over Their Own Learning?
  • Should School Cafeterias Serve Organic Food?
  • Is Social Media Bad For You? 
  • Should Schools Have a Mandatory Environmental Education Program?
  • Should There Be More Focus on Mental Health in Schools?
  • Discuss the Importance of Teaching Ethics and Morality in Schools.

Persuasive Essay Topics For Grade 8

  • Discuss the Effectiveness of Peer Tutoring Programs in Schools.
  • Discuss the Influence of School Culture on Student Success.
  • Should Schools Provide More Support for Students with Learning Disabilities?
  • Should Teenagers Be Required to Take a Course on Public Speaking?
  • Discuss the Role of Social Media in Education.
  • Should Schools Have a Dress Code for Physical Education Classes?
  • Should Schools Offer More Career Exploration Opportunities?
  • Discuss the Benefits and Drawbacks of Year Round School vs. Traditional Calendars.
  • Should Students Be Allowed to Choose Their Own Class Schedules?
  • Discuss the Impact of Online Education on Traditional Classroom Education.

Persuasive Essay Topics High School

  • Discuss the Benefits of School-Based Mental Health Care Services for Students.
  • Should Schools Implement a Later Start Time for Students?
  • Discuss the Importance of Civic Education in Preparing Students for Citizenship.
  • Discuss the Pros and Cons of Implementing Uniform Policies in High Schools.
  • Should All High School Students Be Required to Take a Financial Management Course?
  • Discuss the Role of Technology in Enhancing Learning Outcomes in High School.
  • Should Schools Offer More Advanced Placement (AP) Classes?
  • High School Students Be Allowed to Vote in Local Elections. Discuss.
  • Should Schools Provide Free College Preparation Resources for All Students?
  • Discuss the Impact of Social Media on Teen Mental Health.

Persuasive Essay Topics For College 

  • Should College Education Be Free for All Students?
  • Should Universities Require Students to Take a Course on Climate Change?
  • Should Student Loans Have a Cap on Interest Rates?
  • Should College Campuses Offer More Mental Health Resources?
  • Should Internships Be a Mandatory Part of All Electoral  College Degrees?
  • Discuss the Impact of Social Media on Academic Integrity.
  • Discuss the Role of Technology in Facilitating Distance Learning in Higher Education.
  • Discuss the Benefits of Diversity and Inclusion Programs on College Campuses.
  • Discuss the Effectiveness of Online vs. Traditional College Courses.
  • Discuss the Ethical Implications of Using AI in College Admissions.

Persuasive Essay Topics for University 

  • Should Universities Implement a Universal Pass/Fail Grading System?
  • Discuss the Impact of Student Activism on University Policy Changes.
  • Should Colleges Offer Free Textbooks for All Students?
  • Discuss the Role of University Research in Addressing Global Challenges.
  • Should Universities Have a Mandate for Sustainability Practices?
  • Discuss the Effectiveness of Mental Health Initiatives in Reducing Stress Among Students.
  • Should Higher Education Institutions Prioritize Practical Skills Over Theoretical Knowledge?
  • Discuss the Benefits and Drawbacks of a Flexible Semester System.
  • Should Universities Provide More Support for Student Entrepreneurs?
  • Discuss the Influence of Globalization on University Curricula.

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Subject-Specific Persuasive Essay Ideas

Here, we’ll explore persuasive essay topics focused on different subjects. No matter the subject you're studying, you'll find interesting ideas for your field!

Law and Justice

  • Should Juveniles Be Tried as Adults for Serious Crimes?
  • Discuss the Impact of Mandatory Minimum Sentences on the Criminal Justice System.
  • Should the Death Penalty Be Abolished Worldwide?
  • Discuss the Role of Rehabilitation vs. Punishment in Reducing Recidivism.
  • Should Surveillance Technology Be Restricted to Protect Privacy Rights?
  • Discuss the Effectiveness of Drug Courts in Addressing Substance Abuse.
  • Should Legal Aid Be Guaranteed for All Defendants Regardless of Income?
  • Discuss the Influence of Media Coverage on High-Profile Trials.
  • Should the Legal Drinking Age Be Lowered to 18?
  • Discuss the Challenges of Ensuring Fair Trials in Cases Involving Racial Bias.

Politics and Government

  • Should Campaign Finance Reform Be a Priority for All Governments?
  • Discuss the Pros and Cons of Implementing Term Limits for Legislators.
  • Should the Voting Age Be Lowered to 16?
  • Discuss the Impact of Gerrymandering on Electoral Fairness.
  • Should Governments Provide Universal Basic Income?
  • Discuss the Role of Social Media in Shaping Public Policy.
  • Should International Organizations Have Greater Authority Over National Governments?
  • Discuss the Effectiveness of Mandatory Voting Laws in Improving Democracy.
  • Should Citizens Have the Right to Recall Elected Officials?
  • Discuss the Benefits and Risks of Proportional Representation in Elections.

Science and Technology

  • Should Governments Invest More in Renewable Energy Research?
  • Can Technology Solve Our Environmental Problems?
  • Should Genetically Modified Foods Be Banned?
  • Discuss the Impact of Social Media on Mental Health.
  • Should Governments Fund Space Exploration Programs?
  • Discuss the Benefits and Risks of Autonomous Vehicles.
  • Should Personal Data Privacy Laws Be Strengthened to Protect Users?
  • Discuss the Role of Technology in Enhancing Educational Outcomes.
  • Should Climate Engineering Solutions Be Pursued to Combat Global Warming?
  • Discuss the Influence of Biotechnology on Modern Medicine.

Social Issues

  • Should Healthcare Be Universal?
  • Discuss the Effects of Income Inequality on Social Mobility.
  • Should Governments Regulate Social Media to Prevent Misinformation?
  • Discuss the Role of Education in Addressing Systemic Racism.
  • Should the Minimum Wage Be Increased to a Living Wage?
  • Discuss the Impact of Affordable Housing Policies on Urban Development.
  • Should Parental Leave Policies Be Standardized Across All Professions?
  • Discuss the Benefits of Legalizing Recreational Marijuana.
  • Should Schools Be Required to Teach Financial Literacy as Part of the Curriculum?
  • Discuss the Influence of Cultural Representation in Media on Public Perception.
  • Should Historical Monuments with Controversial Backgrounds Be Removed?
  • Discuss the Role of Historical Fiction in Shaping Public Understanding of Past Events.
  • Should Schools Include More Diverse Perspectives in History Curriculum?
  • Discuss the Impact of Colonialism on Modern-Day Socioeconomic Structures.
  • Should World War II Be Taught as a Central Focus in History Education?
  • Discuss the Influence of Ancient Civilizations on Modern Governance Systems.
  • Should Historical Figures with Controversial Legacies Be Re-evaluated in Textbooks?
  • Discuss the Significance of the Civil Rights Movement in Contemporary Society.
  • Should Museums Focus More on Preserving Local History or Global History?
  • Discuss the Lessons Learned from Historical Economic Crises and Their Relevance Today.
  • Should Schools Teach Abstinence-Only Education?
  • Discuss the Benefits of Integrating Technology in the Classroom.
  • Should Schools Adopt a Year-Round Education System?
  • Discuss the Role of Emotional Intelligence in Academic Success.
  • Should Students Take a Self-Defense Class?
  • Discuss the Impact of Class Size on Student Learning Outcomes.
  • Should Financial Literacy Be a Required Subject in Schools?
  • Discuss the Advantages of Bilingual Education in Early Childhood.
  • Should Schools Provide Free Meals to All Students?
  • Discuss the Importance of Arts Education in Fostering Creativity.

Environment

  • Should Single-Use Plastics Be Banned Globally?
  • Discuss the Effectiveness of Renewable Energy in Combating Climate Change.
  • Should Governments Provide Incentives for Reducing Carbon Footprints?
  • Discuss the Role of Urban Green Spaces in Environmental Sustainability.
  • Should Climate Change Education Be Mandatory in Schools?
  • Discuss the Impact of Overfishing on Marine Ecosystems.
  • Should Companies Be Required to Report Their Environmental Impact?
  • Discuss the Benefits of Transitioning to a Plant-Based Diet for Environmental Conservation.
  • Should There Be Stricter Regulations on Deforestation?
  • Discuss the Challenges of Implementing Zero-Waste Policies in Cities.

Health & Wellness

  • Should Governments Subsidize Healthy Foods to Combat Obesity?
  • Discuss the Role of Mental Health Days in Improving Student Well-being.
  • Should COVID-19 Vaccination Be Mandatory for Public Health?
  • Discuss the Benefits and Drawbacks of Telemedicine for Patient Care.
  • Should Workplaces Implement Mandatory Wellness Programs for Employees?
  • Discuss the Impact of Sleep Hygiene on Overall Health.
  • Should Vaccinations Be Required for All Public School Students?
  • Discuss the Effectiveness of Meditation and Mindfulness Practices in Stress Reduction.
  • Should There Be More Public Education on Preventative Healthcare Measures?
  • Discuss the Influence of Social Media on Body Image and Self-Esteem.

Food & Nutrition

  • Should Fast Food Advertising Be Restricted to Protect Children's Health?
  • Discuss the Impact of Plant-Based Diets on Environmental Sustainability.
  • Should Schools Offer Free Breakfast and Lunch to All Students?
  • Discuss the Benefits of Organic Foods Compared to Conventional Foods.
  • Should Nutrition Labels Include More Information About Added Sugars?
  • Discuss the Role of Dietary Supplements in Preventing Chronic Diseases.
  • Should Restaurants Be Required to Provide Nutritional Information on Menus?
  • Discuss the Importance of Teaching Cooking Skills in Schools.
  • Should Governments Implement Sugar Taxes to Reduce Consumption?
  • Discuss the Influence of Cultural Food Practices on Modern Nutrition.
  • Should the Minimum Wage Be Increased to Match the Cost of Living?
  • Discuss the Impact of Universal Basic Income on Economic Inequality.
  • Should Governments Provide Subsidies for Green Technology?
  • Discuss the Role of Tax Incentives in Encouraging Business Investment.
  • Should There Be Stricter Regulations on Financial Speculation?
  • Discuss the Effects of Globalization on Local Economies.
  • Should Student Loan Debt Forgiveness Be Implemented?
  • Discuss the Economic Benefits and Risks of Trade Tariffs.
  • Should There Be a Cap on Executive Salaries to Reduce Income Disparity?
  • Discuss the Influence of Cryptocurrency on Traditional Financial Systems.

Media and Entertainment

  • Should Streaming Services Be Required to Include More Diverse Content?
  • Discuss the Impact of Celebrity Endorsements on Consumer Behavior.
  • Should Social Media Platforms Be Held Responsible for Content Moderation?
  • Discuss the Role of Media Literacy in Protecting Against Misinformation.
  • Should Video Game Companies Implement Stricter Regulations on In-Game Purchases?
  • Discuss the Influence of Reality TV on Public Perception of Reality.
  • Should There Be Regulations on the Amount of Advertising Targeted at Children?
  • Discuss the Economic Impact of Major Film Studios on Local Economies.
  • Should Content Creators Be Paid Fairly for Their Work on Social Media Platforms?
  • Discuss the Ethical Considerations of Using Deepfake Technology in Entertainment.
  • Should Music Education Be Mandatory in Schools?
  • Discuss the Impact of Streaming Services on the Music Industry.
  • Should Artists Have Control Over How Their Music Is Used?
  • Discuss the Influence of Music on Teen Behavior.
  • Should Concert Tickets Be More Affordable?
  • Discuss the Role of Music in Mental Health.
  • Should Musicians Be Allowed to Perform Political Songs?
  • Discuss the Evolution of Music Genres Over the Decades.
  • Should Music Piracy Be More Strictly Enforced?
  • Discuss the Benefits of Learning to Play an Instrument.
  • Should Professional Athletes Be Paid More than Public Servants?
  • Discuss the Impact of Sports Sponsorships on Athlete Performance.
  • Should Youth Sports Programs Be Funded by Public Schools?
  • Discuss the Role of Technology in Enhancing Athletic Performance.
  • Should There Be More Strict Regulations on Concussions in Contact Sports?
  • Discuss the Benefits of Encouraging Girls to Participate in Sports.
  • Should College Athletes Be Compensated for Their Role in Generating Revenue?
  • Discuss the Influence of Sports on National Identity and Pride.
  • Should Performance-Enhancing Drugs Be Legalized in Professional Sports Teams?
  • Discuss the Effect of Major Sporting Events on Host Cities’ Economies.

Animals and Wildlife

  • Should Zoos Focus More on Conservation Than Entertainment?
  • Discuss the Effects of Deforestation on Endangered Species.
  • Should Hunting Be Banned to Protect Wildlife Populations?
  • Discuss the Role of Wildlife Corridors in Preventing Animal Extinction.
  • Should Pet Ownership Be Regulated to Ensure Animal Welfare?
  • Discuss the Impact of Climate Change on Marine Life.
  • Should There Be Stricter Laws Against Animal Cruelty?
  • Discuss the Benefits of Wildlife Rehabilitation and Release Programs.
  • Should Trophy Hunting Be Prohibited to Protect Endangered Species?
  • Discuss the Ethical Implications of Using Animals in Scientific Research.
  • Should Companies Be Required to Publish Their Environmental Impact?
  • Discuss the Ethics of Using Animals for Scientific Research.
  • Should Whistleblowers Be Protected by Law?
  • Discuss the Moral Implications of Genetic Engineering.
  • Should Celebrities Be Held to Higher Ethical Standards?
  • Can Animal Testing Be Ethical?
  • Should Online Privacy Be a Fundamental Right?
  • Discuss the Ethics of Artificial Intelligence in Decision-Making.
  • Is Capital Punishment Ethical?
  • Are Drunk Drivers Punished Appropriately?

Persuasive Essay Topics by Complexity

Now, let’s check out persuasive essay topics based on how tricky they are. Whether you’re after something easy or more advanced, you’ll find a topic that fits.

Beginner Topics

  • Gun Ownership Should Be Tightly Regulated. Discuss.
  • Discuss the Benefits of Reading Books Over Watching TV.
  • Should Homework Be Limited to One Hour Per Night?
  • Discuss the Advantages of Using Reusable Bags Instead of Plastic Ones.
  • Are Open Borders a Good Idea?
  • Should Fast Food Be Banned in School Cafeterias?
  • Discuss the Importance of Regular Exercise for Kids.
  • Books Should Be Replaced with Tablets
  • Does Your School Handle Bullying Well?

Intermediate Topics

  • Should Schools Implement a Later Start Time to Improve Student Performance?
  • Discuss the Impact of Social Media on Teen Self-Esteem.
  • Should Governments Invest More in Public Transportation to Reduce Traffic?
  • Discuss the Advantages of Renewable Energy Sources Over Fossil Fuels.
  • Should Higher Education Be Free for All Students?
  • Discuss the Effectiveness of Mental Health Programs in Schools.
  • Should Companies Be Required to Provide Paid Parental Leave?
  • Discuss the Benefits of Mandatory Financial Literacy Education in High School.
  • Should Online Privacy Laws Be Strengthened to Protect Personal Information?
  • Discuss the Role of Government in Promoting Sustainable Agriculture Practices.

Advanced Topics

  • Should Governments Enforce Stricter Regulations on Artificial Intelligence Development?
  • Discuss the Ethical Implications of Genetic Engineering in Humans.
  • Should There Be a Universal Basic Income to Address Economic Inequality?
  • Discuss the Impact of Globalization on Cultural Identity and Diversity.
  • Should Climate Change Mitigation Strategies Prioritize Renewable Energy Over Carbon Capture?
  • Discuss the Role of International Organizations in Managing Global Health Crises.
  • Should Nations Adopt a Global Tax on Multinational Corporations to Address Inequality?
  • Discuss the Challenges and Benefits of Implementing Universal Healthcare Systems.
  • Should Governments Take More Aggressive Actions to Combat Cybercrime?
  • Discuss the Influence of Media Ownership Concentration on Public Opinion and Democracy.

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Persuasive Argumentative Essay Topics

  • Should Governments Mandate Corporate Social Responsibility Programs for Large Companies?
  • Discuss the Impact of Automation on the Job Market and Income Distribution.
  • Should Higher Education Institutions Be Held Responsible for Student Loan Debt?
  • Discuss the Feasibility and Ethical Implications of Universal Basic Healthcare.
  • Should Countries Adopt a Global Standard for Privacy Protection in Digital Transactions?
  • Discuss the Consequences of Overpopulation on Global Resources and Environmental Sustainability.
  • Should Governments Regulate the Use of Artificial Intelligence in Military Applications?
  • Discuss the Role of Cultural Preservation in the Age of Globalization and Technological Advancement.
  • Should Public Funding Be Allocated to Support the Arts and Humanities in Education?
  • Discuss the Potential Risks and Benefits of Genetic Modification in Agriculture.

Controversial Persuasive Essay Topics

  • Higher Taxes on the Wealthy: A Fair Solution?
  • Are Abortion Restrictions Protecting Fetal Life or Limiting Women's Choices?
  • Do Graphic Warning Labels on Cigarette Packs Truly Deter Smoking ?
  • Do Drug Tests Ensure Safety or Violate Privacy Rights?
  • Sex Education In Schools: Does it Foster Safer and Informed Choices
  • Censorship of Art and Media: Protecting or Suppressing Expression?
  • Stricter Background Checks: Enhancing Gun Control or Infringing on Rights?
  • Free Speech Should Have Limitations
  • Universal Basic Income: Easing Poverty or Discouraging Work?
  • Should Violent  Video Games Be Considered a Sport?

Unique Persuasive Essay Topics Ideas

  • Should Space Exploration Funding Be Increased?
  • Discuss the Benefits of Banning Homework in Elementary Schools.
  • Should Fast Fashion Brands Face Stricter Regulations?
  • Discuss the Impact of Social Media Influencers on Youth Culture.
  • Should Public Parks Have Designated Areas for Dog Owners?
  • Should Nuclear Power Be Banned? 
  • Should Schools Teach Emotional Intelligence as Part of the Curriculum?
  • Discuss the Ethics of Using AI in Art and Creativity.
  • Should Eco-Friendly Products Be Subsidized by the Government?
  • Discuss the Role of Gamification in Enhancing Learning Outcomes.

Easy Persuasive Essay Topics

  • Should School Cafeterias Offer Healthier Lunch Options?
  • Should Nuclear Power Be Banned?
  • Should Students Be Allowed to Use Cell Phones in Class?
  • Discuss the Importance of Recycling at Home.
  • Should Schools Have Longer Summer Breaks?
  • Discuss the Advantages of Reading for Pleasure.
  • Should Schools Offer More Art and Music Classes?
  • Should Sports Be Mandatory in School Curriculums?
  • Discuss the Impact of a Positive Attitude on Academic Success.
  • Discuss the Benefits of Keeping Pets in the Classroom.

Fun Persuasive Essay Topics

  • Should Schools Have a Nap Time for Students?
  • Discuss the Impact of Hosting a School Carnival on Student Engagement.
  • Discuss the Benefits of Allowing Pets in the Workplace.
  • Should Every Student Have a Personal Robot Assistant?
  • Discuss the Impact of Having a School Talent Show.
  • Are There Benefits To Cannabis Use?
  • Discuss the Benefits of Wearing Pajamas to School.
  • Should Schools Offer a “Free Day” for Creative Projects?
  • Discuss the Importance of Having a Weekly “Fun Friday” in Class.
  • Should Students Design Their Own School Uniforms?

Decided on a topic? Check out these persuasive essay examples to start writing your essay on any topic!

Tips to Choose a Persuasive Essay Topic

Picking the right topic is key to writing a great persuasive essay. Check out these practical tips to find a topic that will grab your readers' attention and help you make a strong argument:

  • Pick What Interests You: Choose a topic you’re passionate about. It’ll make researching and writing much more enjoyable and engaging.
  • Know Your Audience: Think about who will be reading your essay. Pick a topic that will resonate with them and spark their interest.
  • Be Clear and Specific: Select a topic that is narrow enough to cover in detail. A specific topic helps you build a stronger argument.
  • Check for Controversy: Opt for a topic with different viewpoints. A controversial issue can provide more material for a persuasive argument.
  • Researchability Matters: Ensure there’s enough information available on your topic. Good research is key to building a solid argument.
  • Stay Current: Topics related to current events or recent developments can make your essay more relevant and engaging.
  • Avoid Overused Topics: Try to steer clear of clichés or overly common issues. Fresh topics can make your essay stand out.
  • Scope and Depth: Make sure it's neither too broad, nor too narrow. So narrow down your focus on a single aspect while developing ideas for your essay.

To Sum it Up, you now have a wide variety of essay topics to choose from and can dive into writing your persuasive essay.

If you’re feeling stuck or unsure where to begin, our essay typer can give you some fresh ideas.

For more thorough help, you might want to check out our custom essay writing service .

Whether you need help picking a unique topic or writing the whole essay, our team is here to support you.

Our expert writers can craft persuasive essays that will help you achieve top grades. So, don’t hesitate—get in touch with our persuasive essay writing service and order now to get the support you need!

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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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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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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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How to Write a Topic Sentence? (Examples & Tips)

A topic sentence is an  important component of every well-structured paragraph . It introduces the main idea and sets the tone for the rest of the paragraph that follows.

Additionally, it is mandatory to structure introductory and supporting paragraphs for every kind of nonfiction writing, including ; essays, theses, blogs, articles, etc. So, perfecting the skill of writing strong topic sentences can be helpful to uplift your writing to the next level.

In this comprehensive blog post, we’re going to discuss useful tips and examples for writing a topic sentence.

What is a Topic Sentence?

A topic sentence refers to the first sentence of a paragraph that reflects its main points . The purpose of this sentence is to tell the readers about what information they are going to read in the rest of the paragraph. It usually comes at the start of a paragraph, though it can also be placed elsewhere.

A topic sentence is also known as;

  • Introductory sentence.
  • Focus sentence.
  • Opening sentence.

This introductory/topic sentence tells the readers that the paragraph is about the health benefits of doing regular exercise.

Tips to Write a Strong Topic Sentence

Here are some useful tips to help you craft compelling topic/introductory sentences;

1. Determine the Main Idea

As aforementioned a topic sentence is solely focused on the main idea or key point of the paragraph. So, before you begin to write the focus sentence, there’s a need to identify the main idea first.

Useful Tips:

Below are some tips to help you determine the main idea of a paragraph;

  • You should brainstorm the key points of a paragraph for which you’re going to craft the opening sentence. To do so, it would be helpful to jot down all the key details.
  • Now, we suggest creating an outline to logically organize these points.
  • Finally, narrow down to the specific idea that you think could enclose the essence of your paragraph.

, the focus/main idea might be that .

2. Start With a Hook

Let’s make your topic sentence compelling. For this, the next tip is to begin the opening sentence with a hook. By hook , we refer to the compelling/interesting statement that grabs the attention of readers.

Types of Hooks that You Can Include in A Topic Sentence:

Some commonly used hook types are lisG

ed below with examples for each;

  • A hook line can be a surprising fact or impressive data , like; "Did you know that just 6 minutes of reading a day can cut your stress levels by up to 68%?”
  • You can use a stimulating question as a hook statement, such as; " How can a simple , regular practice elevate your creative writing to the next level?”
  • You can address a solved mystery in the hook line; for example; “ What ultimately convinced the senator to change their mind?”
  • Also, you can use an anecdote or quote in the hook line, for instance; " Author Stephen King once said, 'Books are a uniquely portable magic.'"

3 . Write Something New and Interesting

Include something interesting and attention-grabbing in the introductory sentence. Avoid using statements that are obvious that everyone knows. So, to craft a topic sentence, write information in a new and unique way.

Tip: Avoid casual and unnecessary words or phrases, but you are required to use compelling, interesting, powerful, and trendy terms to draw readers in.

4. Balance Between Specific & General

Ensure that your main sentence strikes a good balance between the specific/narrow and the general/broad. Don’t write the topic sentence around too broad or vague an idea that is impossible to cover in a single paragraph.

 

Similarly, you shouldn’t write a too narrow statement that has nothing much to say in the supporting sentences.

Instead , you should maintain a good balance and write an idea that is neither too generic nor too specific. Below is an example of such a topic sentence;

✔️ “Incorporating technology into classroom learning can enhance student engagement and understanding without overwhelming traditional teaching methods.”

Pro Tip: Also, choose a particular writing style/tone of your paragraph in the sentence; Persuasive, Informative, Descriptive, Formal, etc . You should choose this according to the overall writing style of your content.

5. Write Concise and Clear

Another effective tip that can help you write a good topic sentence is to use concise and clear wording. You should write a sentence that is succinct and to the point. Also, it should convey the main idea clearly without any jargon, complexity, or unnecessary details.

All in all, you should aim for brevity and maintain a smooth flow in your paragraph.

For Examples:

Error-free and Innovative Way to Write a Topic Sentence

Following all the above tips are sufficient to help you write a good topic sentence. However, it may consume a lot of your time and effort, especially when you’re compiling them for long-form content with several paragraphs.

Also, there is a chance that you sometimes can’t come up with an accurate, relevant, and top-notch opening sentence. In this scenario, let me introduce an efficient, automatic, and perfectly precise way of sentence writing i.e., using AI sentence-generating tools. Here, we’ve come up with a handy solution: Editpad’s AI Sentence Generator .

It works on sophisticated AI, NLP, and Large Language models to promptly generate excellent sentences. You just need to provide the main idea or keyword, select the numbers, set the writing tone, and run the tool.

The AI Sentence Generator by Editpad will take no time to come up with well-structured and relevant sentences. You can “Copy” the suitable one from the output box, and use it as a topic sentence.

A Real-time Showcase:

We provided our main keyword; “Role of Mental Health”, and below are the sentences that we got from Editpad's AI sentence generator.

Output of Editpad AI Sentence Generator:

Demonstration:

Writing Sentences with Editpad AI Sentence Generator

Examples of Topic Sentences for Different Paragraphs

Let’s generate topic sentences for different types of paragraphs such as; persuasive, informative, Declarative, and others;

Example1: Persuasive Topic Sentence

We provided the below main idea of a persuasive paragraph into the sentence generator, selected the “Persuasive Tone”, and operated the tool .

“The Need for Comprehensive Health Education in Schools”

Results We Got:

Pictorial Demo of the Output:

Generating Sentences with Paragraphs

Example2: Informal Topic Sentence

“Now, let’s create the focus sentence for an informal paragraph, with the help of the AI sentence generator of Editpad.”

Here’s the Main Idea of the Paragraph;

“How Exercise Can Boost Your Mood”

Focus Sentence We Got:

Image Showing the Output:

Informal sentence generation

Example3: Academic Topic Sentence

In the third example, we gave the central idea of an academic paragraph, and ran the tool after selecting “Academic Tone”.

The Central Idea:

“The Impact of Climate Change on Agricultural Productivity”

Academic Focus Sentences:

Output Image:

Writing Academic Sentence

Example4: Topic Sentence for Professional Paragraph

For the last example, we’ll create a focus sentence for a professional paragraph. For this, we provided the below given main idea, chose the Professional Tone, and operated the tool. The Editpad’s sentence generator AI tool did real-time work and provided multiple results for the professional topic sentence.

The Key Idea:

“The Importance of Effective Leadership in Organizational Success”

Output by the Sentence Generator:

Image of the Output:

Writing Sentence for Professional Paragraph

A strong topic sentence is an important component for crafting well-structured paragraphs in any non-fiction writing. It introduces the main idea, sets the tone, and guides the reader. In this blog post, we comprehensively explained the manual and automatic way to write a good topic sentence. with tips and examples that will help you write. We discussed the tips and examples along the way, for your better understanding.

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A Celebratory Take on Audre Lorde’s Brave, Hard, Unconventional Life

“Survival Is a Promise,” a new biography by Alexis Pauline Gumbs, is an unabashed homage to the poet known for her political commitment and community building.

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This black-and-white photo shows the poet Audre Lorde in a short-sleeved white blouse over a printed top sitting next to a blackboard on which we can read the words “Women are powerful and dangerous.” Lorde rests her right hand on a table in the foreground, on which we can see a pair of glasses, a Styrofoam cup and a sheaf of paper.

By Ayten Tartici

Ayten Tartici is a writer and critic. Her work has appeared in The Atlantic, The New York Review of Books and The Yale Review, among other venues.

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SURVIVAL IS A PROMISE: The Eternal Life of Audre Lorde , by Alexis Pauline Gumbs

Audre Lorde was in an auditorium at Stanford reading “ Power ,” a poem about Clifford Glover, a 10-year-old African American boy fatally shot by the police in 1973, when the walls began to shake. Lorde did not notice the earthquake, mistaking some audience members’ sudden flight to the exit as an unwillingness to listen. She raised her voice and kept reading. In her canonical poetry collection “The Black Unicorn” (1978), she swears an oath to stick it out: “May I never lose that terror that keeps me brave.”

Anecdotes of endurance like this one enliven “Survival Is a Promise,” a new biography by Alexis Pauline Gumbs of the self-identified “ Black, lesbian, mother, warrior, poet ,” who died in 1992 . For the past two decades, the gold standard of Lorde biographies has been Alexis De Veaux’s groundbreaking “Warrior Poet” (2004), the only comprehensive resource regarding Lorde’s life aside from her semi-fictionalized autobiography, “Zami: A New Spelling of My Name.” With “Survival Is a Promise” Gumbs, a scholar and poet herself, takes a different tack, delivering an unabashed celebration of Lorde, a legally blind girl with a stutter and Caribbean roots who became the first Black poet to deliver a solo reading sponsored by the Academy of American Poets.

Unconventional in structure as well as tone, “Survival Is a Promise” features brief chapters arranged by topic — Lorde’s fondness for bees; locks of her hair now preserved at Spelman College ; her photographs of St. Croix after Hurricane Hugo — along with Gumbs’s ecological, geological and cosmic reflections. Gumbs explains, for example, Lorde’s symbiotic relationship with her long-term partner Frances Clayton, who gave up a tenured position in psychology at Brown to live with Lorde and her children, through the orientation of sunflowers in relation to the sun.

There is no room for Lorde’s flaws in this book; she is a goddess, an avatar, an icon. As an entry point into Lorde’s poetry, though, Gumbs’s persuasive close readings create a virtuous circle, shining a light on how the life generated the poems, which now elucidate that life. Her goal is to steer us away from the one-liners — “My silences have not protected me. Your silence will not protect you” — that have too often been Lorde’s legacy and focus us instead on the poet’s forthright voice, on the political and emotional resonance of her work: “ As a diamond comes into a knot of flame/I am Black because I come from the earth’s inside .”

Lorde was born in 1934 in Harlem to immigrant parents from the island of Grenada. Her light-skinned mother, Linda, worked as a dishwasher until her employer discovered that she wasn’t Spanish and fired her. She later helped Lorde’s father, Byron, who ran a real estate office for Black families excluded from the housing market. In her journal, Lorde wrote, “I had one of those grotesque childhoods that turns a person into a poem.” Her parents expected total obedience from Audre and her two sisters — De Veaux says Audre’s mother beat her almost daily for her “insolence” — though her father also encouraged reading, bringing home pallets of books won for cheap at auctions.

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  1. 31 Persuasive Essay Topics • JournalBuddies.com

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  3. How to write a Persuasive Essay?

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  4. 60 Interesting Persuasive Essay Topics for Kids and Teens

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  5. 50 Free Persuasive Essay Examples (+BEST Topics) ᐅ TemplateLab

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  6. 50 Free Persuasive Essay Examples (+BEST Topics) ᐅ TemplateLab

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COMMENTS

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