How to Write a Position Paper: Easy Steps to Take

If you have two options – staying grounded at home for about two weeks or writing a position paper – the truth is that many people would prefer the former. To be honest, academic assignment always make us face various challenges. Many students don’t like writing essays, and unfortunately, a position paper is among those tasks.

Perhaps, the above statement is an exaggeration. Truth is writing a position paper outline doesn’t have to be dreadful. As a matter of fact, it is one of the simplest essays in the fields of academic writing only if you know the tricks. Outlining will help you make your writing process easy and enjoyable.

What Is a Position Paper: A Clear Picture

The primary objective of a position paper is to tell readers that your viewpoint is strong and valid. Some people equate this kind of writing with an opinion essay. While the two kinds of essay look similar to an extent, an opinion essay is all about stating your opinion about the subject matter and nothing more.

So what is a position paper? Essentially, it is not only about stating your opinion but also backing up your claims with substantial evidence from your chosen resources.

Position Paper Outline: How to Craft?

Now that you have a glimpse of position paper definition the next step is to draft an outline. That will help you arrange your thoughts logically and make your paper well-structured. Just like any other essay, position paper also follows standard procedures and rules. It should include an introductory section, the main body and of course a concluding paragraph. But first, you need to draft an outline as this will act as a guide when writing.

How to Start a Position Paper – Introduction

Wondering how to start a position paper? Well, it’s simple. Although, specific features are to be preserved. A position paper introduction plays two significant roles – to highlight the main problem and stating your thesis. This section is one of the first things your readers will come across; hence it has to be as enticing as possible. This section will not only give a brief about the topic but also compel your target audience to probe further and stay glued to your write-up. Wrap up your introductory paragraph with a strong thesis statement that supports your perspective and arguments.

It is important to note that this kind of essay requires deep research work. As a result, your write up should be in the third person.

Body Paragraphs

Basically, this part is where you clearly state your finding. It is subdivided into three sections. Each section will talk about different arguments to back your claim. This section should contain quotes, facts, and statistics that justifies your position

This section is where you prove your oppositions wrong. Of course, since position essays are debatable by nature, it expects some form of opposition. Using your evidence and points, you should be able to provide a strong argument to support your standpoint.

How to End a Position Paper – Conclusion

Sadly, many students don’t know how to end a position paper. Essentially this section provides an overview of your standpoints. Don’t make the mistake of repeating your main points in the body paragraphs. Instead, it should lay more emphasis on why you think your idea is valid and strong. Depending on the chosen topic, you may even proffer lasting solutions to the issues raised. Knowing how to write a conclusion for a position paper the right way will further enhance your chance of getting good grades.

How to Write a Position Paper: Steps to Take

You want to convince your readers with the facts and pieces of evidence stated in your essay, don’t you? That is why you need to learn how to write a position paper professionally. Here are some necessary steps to follow

  • Choose an interesting topic;
  • Decide on a unique position idea;
  • Gather information using as many resources as possible;
  • Draft your thesis statement;
  • Create an outline;
  • Start writing;
  • Edit the draft;
  • Do a proper revision;
  • And lastly, proofread again.

Position Paper Topics for You to Check

Position paper ideas have no specific format. To succeed in the writing this particular assignment, you are to understand the overall meaning and major purpose of it. So, what is the purpose of a position paper? Essentially, it generates support on an issue. Your main aim is to present a clear and valuable point of view on a particular problem. However, it is important to note that your primary goal is not to extensively discuss the subject matter to argue on your own viewpoint about the topic. In this case, you must use evidence and statistics to support your claims. So which topics fit into this category?

  • The Importance of vaccination for babies.
  • The issue of gender discrimination in the workplace.
  • How can human trafficking be eliminated?
  • The superiority of electronic resume over paper resume.
  • The economic impact of raising the minimum wage.
  • The problem of sexual harassment in the US.
  • The importance of technology in education.
  • Why do people immigrate illegally?

If you’re assigned a topic from any of the fields mentioned above, you should be able to produce a solid argument. You can find lots of resources to support your position. So it is important to choose an interesting topic and make a claim that would be hard to refute. And since there is always a contrary opinion to your viewpoint, there is still something to argue about.

Position Paper Format: Check the Requirements

There is a specific position paper format that you must follow. The draft should come in the following format

  • Font: Times New Roman;
  • Font size: 12;
  • Spacing: single;
  • Page length: no more than one and a half pages.

Also, it should contain the following

  • Headings
  • Contents
    • Introduction
    • Body Paragraphs
    • Conclusion
  • Works cited

With this guide, you'll become one step closer to mastering a perfect position paper. Good luck!