How to Write a Position Paper: 5 Steps & Outline Example
Writing a position paper is a vital skill for anyone seeking to effectively communicate their stance on an issue.
Whether you're addressing a local concern or a global topic, presenting a clear, well-supported argument is key.
This guide will explore the steps to writing an impactful position paper, offer a structured outline, and provide valuable tips for presenting your argument persuasively. By the end, you'll be equipped to craft a position paper that not only persuades but also stands out.
What is a Position Paper?
A position paper is a written document that presents a reasoned argument in favor of a particular viewpoint on a specific issue. It’s used to advocate for or against an issue, policy, or argument.
Unlike an opinion piece, which is typically more informal, a position paper is based on research, evidence, and logical reasoning. It requires the writer to express their stance on an issue, provide well-researched evidence to support their position, and anticipate and address opposing viewpoints. The goal is to persuade the reader of the validity of your perspective.
5 Steps to write a Position Paper
To write an effective position paper, follow these key steps:
1) Choose a Topic
Pick a topic that is clear, specific, and recent. Choose something that you have a strong opinion about, and something that you could argue either for or against.
2) Conduct Research
Conduct thorough research. This means collecting credible information, articles, and statistics that back up your position. Be sure to check with reliable sources such as academic publications, government findings, and professional views.
3) Write an Argument
Once you have gathered your evidence to support your claims, it’s time to add the next important part of your argument in your academic writing, the why this matters or so what section.
4) Challenge Your Thesis
An effective position paper is well-researched and well-written. It proves you have done the necessary work to defend your argument, and it helps readers understand what we can do for them.
5) Collect Supporting Evidence
Present evidence to back up your thesis. You might include evidence such as statistics, expert opinion, case studies, or real-world examples. Make sure your evidence is directly related to your thesis.
Position Paper Outline Examples:
In this part, we will guide you on how to write your paper with our arguments. Our example topic is "Should tablets replace traditional textbooks in the classroom?" The structure of the argument is broken down into three categories: Introduction, Body Paragraphs, and Conclusion. Each category will be explained and expanded upon with a writing example so that you have understanding and confidence when writing your own academic argument paper.
Introduction
The introduction sets the stage for the position paper by clearly presenting the issue and stating your position on it. It should capture the reader’s attention and provide some background on the topic.
Example:
"In recent years, technology has made its way into classrooms, with tablets emerging as a potential replacement for traditional textbooks. This paper argues that tablets should replace textbooks in the classroom due to their cost-effectiveness, interactive learning capabilities, and environmental benefits."
Body Paragraphs
The body paragraphs are where you present your arguments in support of your position. Each paragraph should focus on a specific point, providing evidence, examples, and reasoning to strengthen your argument. It's also essential to address potential counterarguments and refute them.
Example:
Argument 1: "Tablets are more cost-effective than traditional textbooks. While textbooks need to be updated frequently, tablets can easily be updated with new content, reducing long-term costs."
Argument 2: "Tablets offer interactive features that enhance learning, such as multimedia content, simulations, and educational apps, making lessons more engaging."
Counterargument and Refutation: "Some argue that tablets could be distracting for students, but studies show that when used properly, tablets enhance student focus and participation."
Conclusion
The conclusion wraps up the paper by restating the position and summarizing the key arguments. It should also provide a final thought or call to action, encouraging the reader to consider your viewpoint seriously.
Example:
"In conclusion, while traditional textbooks have served students for decades, tablets present an innovative, efficient, and sustainable alternative for modern classrooms. As technology continues to evolve, it is clear that the future of education lies in embracing digital learning tools like tablets."
What Are the Types of Position Papers?
Position papers can vary in terms of their purpose, focus, and audience. Below are some of the most common types of position papers:
1) Argumentative Position Papers
These papers have a very defined audience and argue in favor of a specific position. They use several points about an issue (the thesis) to provide evidence and develop an argument. Papers of this genre discuss a topic and must incorporate sources that support the writer's stance on that topic.
Example:
A paper arguing that renewable energy sources should replace fossil fuels to combat climate change, presenting evidence on environmental benefits, economic viability, and sustainability.
2) Policy Position Papers
Policy position papers are not altogether uncommon in the world of politics and organizations. They argue for potential change to current policy, and are usually written with a specific solution in mind and addressed to a group of decision makers, such as a government agency or any organization's leadership.
Example:
A policy paper recommending changes to healthcare policy, such as advocating for universal healthcare coverage and providing data on the benefits of a single-payer system.
3) Analytical Position Papers
An analytical paper breaks down an issue or an idea into its component parts, evaluates the issue or idea, and presents this breakdown and evaluation to the audience. A paper in music theory or history could be an example of an analytical paper. An analytical paper is more focused on research.
Example:
A paper examining the pros and cons of online education, weighing the benefits of accessibility and flexibility against the challenges of student engagement and technological limitations.
4) Comparative Position Papers
Comparative position papers present two or more competing viewpoints on a particular issue and compare their merits and drawbacks. These papers often focus on identifying which perspective is more compelling or feasible, and they provide an in-depth analysis of each argument.
Example:
A paper comparing the effectiveness of different approaches to addressing income inequality, such as tax reform versus minimum wage increases, to determine which is more effective in reducing poverty.
5) Position Papers in Academic Debates
In academic contexts, a position paper is usually written for a colloquium or seminar, and they are a resource for activities such as debates, mock trials, or model United Nations (MUN) conferences. They are an articulation of a country's or an institution's official perspective regarding a particular topic. They should provide data and justifications. They should argue for a solution or a response to a global issue or transnational policy problem.
Example:
A position paper for a Model UN conference where a delegate represents a country’s position on a specific global issue, such as the refugee crisis or nuclear disarmament.
Tips for Writing a Position Paper
Some common strategies and structures for expository writing include:
1. Clear Position and Topic
Be sure that you are clear on your stance and have a specific idea to focus your topic on. Readers will be able to see what position you are taking right from the beginning.
2. Sufficient Research and Evidence Support
Make sure your argument is grounded in established, credible research. Your use of studies, data, and expert opinions can either make or break your argument. The more credible source materials you use, the more credible your argument.
3. Clear Structure and Concise Expression
All of your writing should be clear and direct. Don't become over-reliant on jargon. A good position paper is still focused on a single ideology and uses supporting evidence that ideas have merit.
4. Effective Persuasion and Logical Support
Build a logical argument in your essay. Use facts, statistics, and expert testimonials to support your position. Be sure to include clearly labeled graphs and charts, if necessary.
5. Editing and Attractiveness
Proofread your paper. Remove grammar mistakes, awkward wording, and ensure your paper is thoroughly edited.
6. Citation and Visualization Tools (Optional)
Be sure to always properly cite your sources and give them credit for their work, and avoid plagiarism at all costs. If applicable, incorporate visual aids such as charts or graphs to help represent data more accessible.
FAQs
These are some questions that your instructor may require in order for you to write an argument position paper or essay.
1) How long is a position paper usually?
Most position papers are 2–3 pages long and written apa format (double spaced, times new roman, size 12 font, 1 inch margins).
2) What must a position paper include?
A position paper is an essay that presents an arguable opinion about an issue – typically that of the author or some specified entity.
3) What is the purpose?
A position paper is an essay that presents an arguable opinion about an issue – typically that of the author or some specified entity. Position papers are published in academia, in politics, in law and other domains.
4) What should be avoided?
Emotional, inauthentic language and that doesn't support a point and information that has nothing to do with your point.
5 ) What kind of paper are you writing?
A position paper is a type of academic writing in which the student researches a controversial issue and writes a paper that explains their stance or viewpoint on it. The main goal of a position paper is to take part in a larger, on-going conversation about a topic, and in doing so the student must demonstrate its knowledge of the topic.
Conclusion
In sum, writing a position paper comes down to “justifying why you believe that your opinion is correct”. Essentially, a position paper is a critical analysis that an individual makes about a particular issue and defends their opinions with arguments backed up by research. Essentially, it is similar to writing an opinion piece for the school newspaper, except you justify your opinion with credible sources. With appropriate reasoning and evidence, you can also convince someone else to consider your position. The key steps to writing a position paper are to choose a position, research, structure your work, and employ various persuasion tactics while looking out for opposing arguments. With these steps, you'll be well on your way to preparing a paper positively arguing for a global or local topic!