This book is a superb all-in-one guide to success GCSE English Language and English Literature - GCSE English 2003

Think About Your Readers
Section Six — Arguing and Analysing

Put Yourself in the Reader’s Shoes

1) Any piece of writing is designed to be read by someone — so you should suit your writing to the reader.

2) That means trying to second-guess what a reader's reactions might be.

Identify Readers’ Concerns and Address Them

Think about concerns the reader might have, and then:

1) Make their concerns sound like understandable reactions.

2) Let them know that you've thought about these concerns.

3) Tell them how your argument addresses the concerns.

Imagine Counter-Arguments and Argue Against Them

A good way of persuading people is to imagine how they would argue against you, and answer their points. Imagine you're writing to persuade the RSPCA to let you work for them...

Challenge Biases and Expectations

1) Your first paragraph is crucial — you've got to keep them reading — it needs impact and interesting ideas that make them want to keep reading.

2) Don't disguise your argument and don't say things you disagree with. If you do, your argument will sound weak and you'll sound as if you don't believe in what you're saying.

3) Challenge expectations — come at the issue from a different point of view from the one they expect.

Second-guessing what the reader will think is vital

Remember — think like your reader and you'll always be one step ahead of them.

Which means they'll be easier to bend to your will. It's what all authors think — well, usually.