Writing a Position Paper Techniques

Writing a Position Paper

• A position paper is an essay or report expressing a stance, conclusion, or recommendation on a debated or undecided issue.
• Its purpose is to build support for a specific viewpoint on an issue.
• It outlines a position on the issue and the reasoning behind it, backed by facts.
• Arguments are grounded in factual evidence.

Techniques for Writing a Position Paper

• Support your position with evidence: statistical data, dates, events, authoritative sources, and direct quotes from sources.
• Evaluate the strengths and weaknesses of your position.
• Predict potential responses to different positions and the course of action they entail.

Choosing a Topic for a Position Paper

• Select an issue with clear contrasting opinions that can be argued using facts and logical reasoning.
• Initially, you may already hold an opinion.
• Carefully define and limit the scope of the issue; social issues often have multiple solutions.
• Focus on a manageable scope, conduct thorough research, consult experts, and gather primary materials.
• Consider the feasibility, cost-effectiveness, and political/social climate when evaluating potential solutions.

Structure of a Position Paper

Introduction

• Clearly identify the issue and the author's position.
• Write a captivating introduction that grabs the reader's attention.

Body

• Each body paragraph presents a main point supporting the position statement.
• Use evidence (direct quotes, statistics, expert opinions, dates, and events) to support every point.
• Use inductive reasoning, leading toward the main point.
• Briefly include background information.
• Discuss both sides of the issue.

Conclusion

• Summarize the key concepts without reiterating the introduction or body.
• Provide suggested courses of action and possible solutions.

Tips for Creating a Position Paper

• Research the topic thoroughly, including its history and actions taken by various parties involved, both domestic and international. Make links to existing resolutions and conventions.
• Use pertinent quotes from authorities and data/statistics.
• Provide a recommendation to solve the topic.

Dos and Don'ts for Position Papers

• Be clear and explicit.
• Write in the present tense.
• Avoid first-person pronouns.
• Avoid superlatives.