PrepScholar

Choose Your Test

  • Search Blogs By Category
  • College Admissions
  • AP and IB Exams
  • GPA and Coursework

113 Perfect Persuasive Essay Topics for Any Assignment

author image

General Education

feature_essaytopics

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.

feature_argumentativeessay-1

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?

feature_information_technology

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 .

Trending Now

How to Get Into Harvard and the Ivy League

How to Get a Perfect 4.0 GPA

How to Write an Amazing College Essay

What Exactly Are Colleges Looking For?

ACT vs. SAT: Which Test Should You Take?

When should you take the SAT or ACT?

Get Your Free

PrepScholar

Find Your Target SAT Score

Free Complete Official SAT Practice Tests

How to Get a Perfect SAT Score, by an Expert Full Scorer

Score 800 on SAT Math

Score 800 on SAT Reading and Writing

How to Improve Your Low SAT Score

Score 600 on SAT Math

Score 600 on SAT Reading and Writing

Find Your Target ACT Score

Complete Official Free ACT Practice Tests

How to Get a Perfect ACT Score, by a 36 Full Scorer

Get a 36 on ACT English

Get a 36 on ACT Math

Get a 36 on ACT Reading

Get a 36 on ACT Science

How to Improve Your Low ACT Score

Get a 24 on ACT English

Get a 24 on ACT Math

Get a 24 on ACT Reading

Get a 24 on ACT Science

Stay Informed

Get the latest articles and test prep tips!

Follow us on Facebook (icon)

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.

Ask a Question Below

Have any questions about this article or other topics? Ask below and we'll reply!

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 ."

  • 50 Argumentative Essay Topics
  • Examples of Great Introductory Paragraphs
  • Complete List of Transition Words
  • List of Topics for How-to Essays
  • 501 Topic Suggestions for Writing Essays and Speeches
  • Personal Essay Topics
  • What Is Expository Writing?
  • Tips on How to Write an Argumentative Essay
  • How to Write a Narrative Essay or Speech (With Topic Ideas)
  • 67 Causal Essay Topics to Consider
  • Tips for Writing a "What I Did on Vacation" Essay
  • Practice in Supporting a Topic Sentence with Specific Details
  • Topical Organization Essay
  • How to Outline and Organize an Essay
  • Make Your Paragraphs Flow to Improve Writing
  • 12 Interesting Ethical Topics for Essay Papers
  • Words with Friends Cheat
  • Wordle Solver
  • Word Unscrambler
  • Scrabble Dictionary
  • Anagram Solver
  • Wordscapes Answers

Make Our Dictionary Yours

Sign up for our weekly newsletters and get:

  • Grammar and writing tips
  • Fun language articles
  • #WordOfTheDay and quizzes

By signing in, you agree to our Terms and Conditions and Privacy Policy .

We'll see you in your inbox soon.

120+ Good Persuasive Essay Topics From Easy to Unique

Book icon With Persuasive Essay Topics Examples

  • DESCRIPTION Book icon With Persuasive Essay Topics Examples
  • SOURCE redchocolatte / iStock / Getty Images Plus
  • PERMISSION Used under Getty Images license

Writing a persuasive essay helps refine critical thinking skills. As a writer addresses counterarguments and finds evidence to support their position, they develop a strong argument style. Find the perfect persuasive essay prompt with a list of more than 120 ideas.

Easy Persuasive Essay Ideas

Persuasive essays require the writer to convince the reader to see an issue from their side. These topics don’t involve much research, which makes them great for elementary school or as quick persuasive writing assignments for older students.

Persuasive Essay Topics About School

Students are experts on school – especially when it comes to their opinions about school. These persuasive topics about school are great for expressing views about dress codes, bullying, and school schedules.

  • What should the punishment for cheating be?
  • Should students be allowed to have phones at school?
  • What’s the most interesting subject to learn?
  • Should homework be required?
  • Does your school handle bullying well?
  • Are dress codes a good idea for schools?
  • Is the school day too long?
  • Should students get to choose what they study?
  • What school rule would you change?
  • Is it a good idea for friends to sit together in class?
  • Does school start too early?
  • Should students take a self-defense class?

Persuasive Essay Topics About Food

It’s easy to form an opinion on food but not as easy to convince others to agree with it. Try these persuasive prompts that range from junk food to healthy eating.

  • What’s better: pizza or hot dogs?
  • Should kids learn how to cook their own food?
  • Is it more fun to eat in a restaurant or at home?
  • What is the best dessert?
  • Should healthy food cost less than junk food?
  • Is eating meat a good idea?
  • Is it better to snack all day or have three set meals?
  • Should sugary drinks be allowed at school?
  • Should kids have to eat foods they don’t like?
  • What is the best food to serve at a party?

Persuasive Essay Topics About Animals

People care a lot about animals. Whether it comes to their favorite animals or where animals should be allowed to go, they’ve got something to say. See if these topics interest you enough to write a persuasive essay.

  • If you want an animal to train, what is the best animal to pick?
  • Should it be okay to keep wild animals as pets?
  • Should pets be allowed in school?
  • What animal makes the best pet?
  • What animal makes the worst pet?
  • Are big dogs better than small dogs?
  • Should you adopt your pet from an animal shelter?

Persuasive Essay Topics About Sports and Activities

What’s the best sport? Is it more fun to play or watch an activity? Sports is another area in which people have strong opinions. Check out these sports-themed persuasive writing prompts for your next essay.

  • Who is the best athlete in the world?
  • What is the easiest hobby to learn?
  • What is the best sport to play?
  • Should girls be allowed to play on boys’ sports teams?
  • Are team sports better than individual sports?
  • Is it more fun to play sports or watch them?
  • Are summer sports better than winter sports?
  • Should students have to stop playing a sport if their grades aren’t high enough?
  • Are professional athletes paid too much?
  • What’s the best activity to do on a rainy day?

Persuasive Essay Topics About Entertainment

The world of movies, books, and music is an engaging place to be. But what’s the best – and worst – of the entertainment world? Some possible essay topics include:

  • What’s the best music to listen to when you’re sad?
  • Should music and movies be free?
  • Are good guys or bad guys more interesting?
  • What is the funniest movie you’ve ever seen?
  • Are reality shows better than other shows?
  • What is the best book ever written?
  • Are scary movies enjoyable to watch?
  • Are comedies better than action movies?
  • What is the best superpower to have?
  • Should audience members be able to film live concerts?
  • Is it better to see a movie in the theater or stream it at home?

Challenging Persuasive Essay Ideas

Forming an argument about a more complex issue can be challenging. It involves backing up your stance with evidence while expressing yourself in a convincing way. The following persuasive essay prompts pose questions about politics, education, health, and more.

Persuasive Essay Topics About Social Issues

You probably hear arguments about modern social issues every day. Examine crime and punishment, the consequences of social media, overpopulation policies, and more with these topics on social issues.

  • Should wealthy people pay more taxes?
  • Are teenagers more impolite than other generations?
  • Are people with mental illnesses treated fairly by society?
  • Is social media beneficial or harmful?
  • Do violent video games make people more violent?
  • Is capital punishment ethical?
  • Should we give money to homeless people?
  • Should countries use a military draft?
  • If countries are overpopulated, should the government be able to limit the number of children in each family?
  • Are drunk drivers punished appropriately?

Persuasive Essay Topics About Education

Writing about issues in one’s school is less complex than writing about the educational system as a whole. See if these persuasive prompts about education inspire you to write about free college, grading systems, school choice, and online learning, among others.

  • How much should parents be involved in their children’s education?
  • Should families be able to choose the schools that their children attend?
  • Is classroom learning better than online learning?
  • Which is better: year-round school or summer vacation ?
  • Should teachers use social media to communicate with their students?
  • Do students deserve the same rights as adults?
  • Should college be free?
  • Which is better: letter grading systems or pass/fail?
  • Should students have to learn sex education in school?
  • Is having a college education required to have a good career?
  • Should schools have security guards?
  • Are tests the best way to see what students are learning?

Persuasive Essay Topics About History and Government

Perfect for social studies papers, these persuasive topics ask students to consider government policies in the past and present. Some questions may not be as straightforward as they seem.

  • Was early European exploration a good thing or a harmful thing?
  • Was America’s use of the atomic bomb in World War II necessary?
  • Should companies be allowed to donate to political candidates?
  • Is democracy the best form of government?
  • Should children who are born in another country have citizenship there?
  • Are there limits to the freedom of speech?
  • Should members of Congress receive a salary during government shutdowns?
  • If a felon has completed their sentences, should they be allowed to vote?
  • What is the most unjust law in the country?
  • Is America the most powerful country in the world?

Persuasive Essay Topics About Science and Technology

The ever-changing world of science and technology brings lots of practical and ethical questions. See what you think about animal testing, genetic engineering, and climate change with these thought-provoking persuasive prompts.

  • Should America fund another trip to the moon?
  • Is too much screen time harmful to children?
  • Is climate change real?
  • Should companies be allowed to create pollution if they’re making goods that benefit society?
  • What is the most important scientific breakthrough of your lifetime?
  • Is it okay for companies to sell their customers’ information?
  • Should the government spend time and resources on renewable energy?
  • Are clinical trials that use placebos ethical?
  • Is animal testing ethical?
  • Should parents be able to choose their babies’ traits before they’re born?

Persuasive Essay Topics About Health and Nutrition

Public health is an important issue in any society. But how much should the government be involved? Express your opinion with the following prompts:

  • Should schools sell only healthy food?
  • Is legalizing marijuana a good idea?
  • Should parents be required to vaccinate their children?
  • Should doctors and teachers screen teenagers for depression?
  • Are genetically modified foods safe?
  • Should physical education be required in schools?
  • Should schools be allowed to drug test students whenever they want? What about companies and their employees?
  • Are professional sports too dangerous?
  • Should healthcare be universal?
  • How could you convince someone to be more physically active?
  • Should healthy people pay less for healthcare?

Unique Persuasive Essay Ideas

If none of the above topics appeal to you, see if these prompts would make an interesting persuasive essay. Remember to choose an issue you care about and one that you can back up with additional information.

  • How much should the public know about a celebrity’s personal life?
  • Is there ever a good reason for war?
  • Is it ethical to train dogs as service animals?
  • Is it better to listen to music while working, or to work in silence?
  • What is the best career to have?
  • Do zoos protect animals or exploit them?
  • Is it better to be 2, 12, 22, or 32?
  • Should people be allowed to clone themselves?
  • What is the worst season?
  • Is it better to be a morning person or a night person?
  • Is loving your job more important than making a lot of money?
  • What is the most important crop to the modern economy?
  • Should you make new friends as you get older or focus on keeping the friends you have?
  • If aliens came to Earth, should we befriend them?
  • Is print news still important in a technological world?
  • Is it better to be rich and alone or poor and have friends?
  • Should parents teach their children old-fashioned manners?
  • Is life better than it was 50 years ago?
  • How would you convince your mayor to build a skate park?

Writing a Convincing Argument

Choosing an easy, challenging, or unique topic is the easy part. When you’re ready to build an argument, you’ll need to gather evidence, consider counterarguments, and draft your essay. Check out a template for a basic argumentative or persuasive essay , complete with a sample outline PDF.

  • Link to facebook
  • Link to linkedin
  • Link to twitter
  • Link to youtube
  • Writing Tips

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

Find this useful.

Subscribe to our newsletter and get writing tips from our editors straight to your inbox.

  • 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 !

Share this article:

Post A New Comment

Got content that needs a quick turnaround? Let us polish your work. Explore our editorial business services.

Free email newsletter template.

Promoting a brand means sharing valuable insights to connect more deeply with your audience, and...

6-minute read

How to Write a Nonprofit Grant Proposal

If you’re seeking funding to support your charitable endeavors as a nonprofit organization, you’ll need...

9-minute read

How to Use Infographics to Boost Your Presentation

Is your content getting noticed? Capturing and maintaining an audience’s attention is a challenge when...

8-minute read

Why Interactive PDFs Are Better for Engagement

Are you looking to enhance engagement and captivate your audience through your professional documents? Interactive...

7-minute read

Seven Key Strategies for Voice Search Optimization

Voice search optimization is rapidly shaping the digital landscape, requiring content professionals to adapt their...

4-minute read

Five Creative Ways to Showcase Your Digital Portfolio

Are you a creative freelancer looking to make a lasting impression on potential clients or...

Logo Harvard University

Make sure your writing is the best it can be with our expert English proofreading and editing.

Interesting Persuasive Essay Topics For College Students

image

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.

more_shortcode

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.

Readers also enjoyed

Research Topics in Education: Frontiers of Learning

WHY WAIT? PLACE AN ORDER RIGHT NOW!

Just fill out the form, press the button, and have no worries!

We use cookies to give you the best experience possible. By continuing we’ll assume you board with our cookie policy.

essay ideas persuasive

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

People also read

How to Write a Persuasive Essay: A Step-by-Step Guide

The Basics of Crafting an Outstanding Persuasive Essay Outline

Ace Your Next Essay With These Persuasive Essay Examples!

Persuasive Essay About Gun Control - Best Examples for Students

Top Examples of Persuasive Essay about Covid-19

Learn How To Write An Impressive Persuasive Essay About Business

Learn How to Craft a Compelling Persuasive Essay About Abortion With Examples!

Make Your Point: Tips and Examples for Writing a Persuasive Essay About Online Education

Learn How To Craft a Powerful Persuasive Essay About Bullying

Craft an Engaging Persuasive Essay About Smoking: Examples & Tips

Learn How to Write a Persuasive Essay About Social Media With Examples

Craft an Effective Argument: Examples of Persuasive Essay About Death Penalty

Share this article

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.

On This Page On This Page -->

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 studentñ€™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?

Tough Essay Due? Hire a Writer!

Tough Essay Due? Hire a Writer!

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 studentñ€™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 applicantñ€™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 todayñ€™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 countryñ€™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 childñ€™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 Columbusñ€™ 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 Bonaparteñ€™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 ñ€œclash of civilizationsñ€? 
  • 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 audienceñ€™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. 

Let CollegeEssay.org's best essay writing service guide you on your journey and take your writing to the next level. 

Take the stress out of writing persuasive essays and get the results you need with our expert essay writer AI .

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!

Cathy A. (Literature, Marketing)

For more than five years now, Cathy has been one of our most hardworking authors on the platform. With a Masters degree in mass communication, she knows the ins and outs of professional writing. Clients often leave her glowing reviews for being an amazing writer who takes her work very seriously.

Paper Due? Why Suffer? That’s our Job!

Get Help

Keep reading

persuasive essay topics

Legal & Policies

  • Privacy Policy
  • Cookies Policy
  • Terms of Use
  • Refunds & Cancellations
  • Our Writers
  • Success Stories
  • Our Guarantees
  • Affiliate Program
  • Referral Program
  • AI Essay Writer

Disclaimer: All client orders are completed by our team of highly qualified human writers. The essays and papers provided by us are not to be used for submission but rather as learning models only.

essay ideas persuasive

  • Chess (Gr. 1-4)
  • TV (Gr. 1-4)
  • Metal Detectors (Gr. 2-6)
  • Tetris (Gr. 2-6)
  • Seat Belts (Gr. 2-6)
  • The Coliseum (Gr. 2-6)
  • The Pony Express (Gr. 2-6)
  • Wintertime (Gr. 2-6)
  • Reading (Gr. 3-7)
  • Black Friday (Gr. 3-7)
  • Hummingbirds (Gr. 3-7)
  • Worst Game Ever? (Gr. 4-8)
  • Carnivorous Plants (Gr. 4-8)
  • Google (Gr. 4-8)
  • Honey Badgers (Gr. 4-8)
  • Hyperinflation (Gr. 4-8)
  • Koko (Gr. 4-8)
  • Mongooses (Gr. 5-9)
  • Trampolines (Gr. 5-9)
  • Garbage (Gr. 5-9)
  • Maginot Line (Gr. 5-9)
  • Asian Carp (Gr. 5-9)
  • Tale of Two Countries (Gr. 6-10)
  • Kevlar (Gr. 7-10)
  • Tigers (Gr. 7-11)
  • Statue of Liberty (Gr. 8-10)
  • Submarines (Gr. 8-12)
  • Castles (Gr. 9-13)
  • Gutenberg (Gr. 9-13)
  • Author's Purpose Practice 1
  • Author's Purpose Practice 2
  • Author's Purpose Practice 3
  • Fact and Opinion Practice 1
  • Fact and Opinion Practice 2
  • Fact and Opinion Practice 3
  • Idioms Practice Test 1
  • Idioms Practice Test 2
  • Figurative Language Practice 1
  • Figurative Language Practice 2
  • Figurative Language Practice 3
  • Figurative Language Practice 4
  • Figurative Language Practice 5
  • Figurative Language Practice 6
  • Figurative Language Practice 7
  • Figurative Language Practice 8
  • Figurative Language Practice 9
  • Figurative Language of Edgar Allan Poe
  • Figurative Language of O. Henry
  • Figurative Language of Shakespeare
  • Genre Practice 1
  • Genre Practice 2
  • Genre Practice 3
  • Genre Practice 4
  • Genre Practice 5
  • Genre Practice 6
  • Genre Practice 7
  • Genre Practice 8
  • Genre Practice 9
  • Genre Practice 10
  • Irony Practice 1
  • Irony Practice 2
  • Irony Practice 3
  • Making Inferences Practice 1
  • Making Inferences Practice 2
  • Making Inferences Practice 3
  • Making Inferences Practice 4
  • Making Inferences Practice 5
  • Main Idea Practice 1
  • Main Idea Practice 2
  • Point of View Practice 1
  • Point of View Practice 2
  • Text Structure Practice 1
  • Text Structure Practice 2
  • Text Structure Practice 3
  • Text Structure Practice 4
  • Text Structure Practice 5
  • Story Structure Practice 1
  • Story Structure Practice 2
  • Story Structure Practice 3
  • Author's Purpose
  • Characterizations
  • Context Clues
  • Fact and Opinion
  • Figurative Language
  • Grammar and Language Arts
  • Poetic Devices
  • Point of View
  • Predictions
  • Reading Comprehension
  • Story Structure
  • Summarizing
  • Text Structure
  • Character Traits
  • Common Core Aligned Unit Plans
  • Teacher Point of View
  • Teaching Theme
  • Patterns of Organization
  • Project Ideas
  • Reading Activities
  • How to Write Narrative Essays
  • How to Write Persuasive Essays
  • Narrative Essay Assignments
  • Narrative Essay Topics
  • Persuasive Essay Topics
  • Research Paper Topics
  • Rubrics for Writing Assignments
  • Learn About Sentence Structure
  • Grammar Worksheets
  • Noun Worksheets
  • Parts of Speech Worksheets
  • Punctuation Worksheets
  • Sentence Structure Worksheets
  • Verbs and Gerunds
  • Examples of Allitertion
  • Examples of Hyperbole
  • Examples of Onomatopoeia
  • Examples of Metaphor
  • Examples of Personification
  • Examples of Simile
  • Figurative Language Activities
  • Figurative Language Examples
  • Figurative Language Poems
  • Figurative Language Worksheets
  • Learn About Figurative Language
  • Learn About Poetic Devices
  • Idiom Worksheets
  • Online Figurative Language Tests
  • Onomatopoeia Worksheets
  • Personification Worksheets
  • Poetic Devices Activities
  • Poetic Devices Worksheets
  • About This Site
  • Privacy Policy
  • Terms of Use
  • Understanding CCSS Standards
  • What's New?

Ereading Worksheets

Free reading worksheets, activities, and lesson plans., site navigation.

  • Learn About Author’s Purpose
  • Author’s Purpose Quizzes
  • Character Types Worksheets and Lessons
  • List of Character Traits
  • Differentiated Reading Instruction Worksheets and Activities
  • Fact and Opinion Worksheets
  • Irony Worksheets
  • Animal Farm Worksheets
  • Literary Conflicts Lesson and Review
  • New Home Page Test
  • Lord of the Flies Chapter 2 Worksheet
  • Lord of the Flies Chapter 5 Worksheet
  • Lord of the Flies Chapter 6 Worksheet
  • Lord of the Flies Chapter 10 Worksheet
  • Narrative of the Life of Frederick Douglass
  • Sister Carrie
  • The Count of Monte Cristo
  • The Odyssey
  • The War of the Worlds
  • The Wizard of Oz
  • Mood Worksheets
  • Context Clues Worksheets
  • Inferences Worksheets
  • Main Idea Worksheets
  • Making Predictions Worksheets
  • Nonfiction Passages and Functional Texts
  • Setting Worksheets
  • Summarizing Worksheets and Activities
  • Short Stories with Questions
  • Story Structure Activities
  • Story Structure Worksheets
  • Tone Worksheets
  • Types of Conflict Worksheets
  • Reading Games
  • Figurative Language Poems with Questions
  • Hyperbole and Understatement Worksheets
  • Simile and Metaphor Worksheets
  • Simile Worksheets
  • Hyperbole Examples
  • Metaphor Examples
  • Personification Examples
  • Simile Examples
  • Understatement Examples
  • Idiom Worksheets and Tests
  • Poetic Devices Worksheets & Activities
  • Alliteration Examples
  • Allusion Examples
  • Onomatopoeia Examples
  • Onomatopoeia Worksheets and Activities
  • Genre Worksheets
  • Genre Activities
  • Capitalization Worksheets, Lessons, and Tests
  • Contractions Worksheets and Activities
  • Double Negative Worksheets
  • Homophones & Word Choice Worksheets
  • ‘Was’ or ‘Were’
  • Simple Subjects & Predicates Worksheets
  • Subjects, Predicates, and Objects
  • Clauses and Phrases
  • Type of Sentences Worksheets
  • Sentence Structure Activities
  • Comma Worksheets and Activities
  • Semicolon Worksheets
  • End Mark Worksheets
  • Noun Worksheets, Lessons, and Tests
  • Verb Worksheets and Activities
  • Pronoun Worksheets, Lessons, and Tests
  • Adverbs & Adjectives Worksheets, Lessons, & Tests
  • Preposition Worksheets and Activities
  • Conjunctions Worksheets and Activities
  • Interjections Worksheets
  • Parts of Speech Activities
  • Verb Tense Activities
  • Past Tense Worksheets
  • Present Tense Worksheets
  • Future Tense Worksheets
  • Point of View Activities
  • Point of View Worksheets
  • Teaching Point of View
  • Cause and Effect Example Paragraphs
  • Chronological Order
  • Compare and Contrast
  • Order of Importance
  • Problem and Solution
  • Text Structure Worksheets
  • Text Structure Activities
  • Essay Writing Rubrics
  • Narrative Essay Topics and Story Ideas
  • Narrative Essay Worksheets & Writing Assignments
  • Persuasive Essay and Speech Topics
  • Persuasive Essay Worksheets & Activities
  • Writing Narrative Essays and Short Stories
  • Writing Persuasive Essays
  • All Reading Worksheets
  • Understanding Common Core State Standards
  • Remote Learning Resources for Covid-19 School Closures
  • What’s New?
  • Ereading Worksheets | Legacy Versions
  • Online Figurative Language Practice
  • Online Genre Practice Tests
  • Online Point of View Practice Tests
  • 62 School Project Ideas
  • 2nd Grade Reading Worksheets
  • 3rd Grade Reading Worksheets
  • 4th Grade Reading Worksheets
  • 5th Grade Reading Worksheets
  • 6th Grade Reading Worksheets
  • 7th Grade Reading Worksheets
  • 8th Grade Reading Worksheets
  • 9th Grade Reading Worksheets
  • 10th Grade Reading Worksheets
  • Membership Billing
  • Membership Cancel
  • Membership Checkout
  • Membership Confirmation
  • Membership Invoice
  • Membership Levels
  • Your Profile

Want Updates?

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

Leave a Reply Cancel reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

Subscribe Now

Popular content.

  • Author's Purpose Worksheets
  • Characterization Worksheets
  • Common Core Lesson and Unit Plans
  • Online Reading Practice Tests
  • Plot Worksheets
  • Reading Comprehension Worksheets
  • Summary Worksheets
  • Theme Worksheets

New and Updated Pages

  • Capitalization Worksheets
  • Contractions Worksheets
  • Double Negatives Worksheets
  • Homophones & Word Choice Worksheets

BECOME A MEMBER!

What are your chances of acceptance?

Calculate for all schools, your chance of acceptance.

Duke University

Your chancing factors

Extracurriculars.

essay ideas persuasive

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!

Related CollegeVine Blog Posts

essay ideas persuasive

Persuasive Essay Guide

Persuasive Essay Topics

Last updated on: Dec 21, 2023

Persuasive Essay Topics Ideas to Craft an A-Worthy Essay

By: Caleb S.

11 min read

Reviewed By: Melisa C.

Published on: Jan 14, 2020

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?

Order Essay

Paper Due? Why Suffer? That's our Job!

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.

Tough Essay Due? Hire Tough Writers!

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.

5StarEssays.com is one of the top essay writing services with professional essay writers who deliver high-quality academic writing at the most affordable prices. You only have to request to write an essay for me  and our professional writers help you.

Unlike other fraudulent companies, we provide completely transparent services. And staying on this website means you agree to our terms and privacy policy which protects your personal information.

If you want to achieve academic excellence, place your order now.

Caleb S.

Medical school essay, Literature

Caleb S. has been providing writing services for over five years and has a Masters degree from Oxford University. He is an expert in his craft and takes great pride in helping students achieve their academic goals. Caleb is a dedicated professional who always puts his clients first.

Was This Blog Helpful?

Keep reading.

  • Persuasive Essay Guide - How to Write a Persuasive Essay

Persuasive Essay Topics

  • Persuasive Essay Outline - Detailed Guide with Examples

Persuasive Essay Topics

  • Free Persuasive Essay Examples to Help you Get Started

Persuasive Essay Topics

People Also Read

  • precis writing
  • visual analysis essay
  • extemporaneous essay
  • how to write a movie review
  • descriptive essay examples

Burdened With Assignments?

Bottom Slider

Advertisement

  • Homework Services: Essay Topics Generator

© 2024 - All rights reserved

Facebook Social Icon

My Speech Class

Public Speaking Tips & Speech Topics

434 Good Persuasive Speech Topics

Photo of author

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.

persuasive speech

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!

Can We Write Your Speech?

Get your audience blown away with help from a professional speechwriter. Free proofreading and copy-editing included.

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

Leave a Comment

I accept the Privacy Policy

Reach out to us for sponsorship opportunities

Vivamus integer non suscipit taciti mus etiam at primis tempor sagittis euismod libero facilisi.

© 2024 My Speech Class

Main Chegg Logo

110 Powerful persuasive essay topics

Published March 20, 2021. Updated December 22, 2021.

If your instructor assigns you a persuasive essay, let’s think for a moment about what that means.

For that to happen, your topic needs to be controversial. Your opinion on the topic needs to be debatable or arguable. Not everyone will agree with you – otherwise there would be no need to convince anyone, right?

For example, you don’t want to write an essay about how smoking is bad for your health. Who would disagree with that? That is not controversial at all.

Now, what if your essay was about why the legal driving age should be increased to 18 years? There are definitely people who would disagree with you. If you present logical reasons that your readers can relate to, you may convince some of them, and that’s the point.

Worried about your writing? Submit your paper for a Chegg Writing essay check , or for an Expert Check proofreading . Both can help you find and fix potential writing issues.

This page will cover the following points:

Topic Overview

Tips for choosing a good persuasive topic, persuasive essay versus argumentative essay, persuasive essay topics about travel, persuasive essay topics about government, persuasive essay topics about health, persuasive essay topics about social media, persuasive essay topics about technology, persuasive essay topics about education, persuasive essay topics about money, persuasive essay topics about food, persuasive essay topics about society, miscellaneous persuasive essay topics.

How do you feel about travel? Some people feel very strongly that everyone should travel, to broaden their horizons, while other people feel travel is a luxury and therefore unnecessary. Still others might be afraid of going somewhere new.

Also, many locations promote travel and tourism since it boosts economy, but now with COVID-19, those places that depend on tourism are struggling: do they allow travelers and risk COVID? Or do they keep people out and suffer financially?

Here are some topics you can explore.

  • What responsibility does a tourist have to support the local economy of the place they’re visiting?
  • Should people travel outside of their own country at least once in their lives?
  • Is it better to be prepared for anything or travel light?
  • Should tourism businesses focus on bringing money into the local economy, even if it could be harmful to the local environment?
  • Should women travel alone?
  • Should eco-tourism be more heavily promoted?
  • What is the responsibility of a location that depends on tourism for revenue, during COVID?
  • Is it better to book a travel package with a set itinerary, or travel without a set schedule?
  • When traveling to a country where another language is spoken, should a tourist learn some of the language?
  • What is the responsibility of a traveler when visiting countries with very different cultures, religions, and social customs?

Although many people say they’re “not political,” the choices government makes lead to policies that affect everyone. For good and bad, government has been front-page news for the last few years.  So, even though the etiquette rule says it’s not polite to discuss politics, for a persuasive essay, it’s a timely, relevant, and controversial topic.

Consider writing about government or politics if any of these topics make you say “Yeah!” (or “No way!”) out loud. Choose the topic you’re sure would get your Uncle Bob most riled up at Thanksgiving.

Here are some topics for you to consider.

  • Should government provide safety nets for the poor?
  • Should the US abolish the Electoral College?
  • Should billionaires be disqualified from running for public office?
  • Should a former elected government official be allowed to work as a lobbyist?
  • Should US territories be granted statehood?
  • Should there be term limits for members of Congress?
  • Should election day be a national holiday?
  • What should the military’s responsibility be for veterans with PTSD?
  • What should be done about hyperpartisanship?
  • Is more representation (gender, race, religion, sexual orientation, ability, etc.) in politics beneficial to society?

Health is something that affects every one of us directly, at one point or another. When we’re healthy, we don’t tend to think about our health much. However, when something goes wrong, it’s all we think about.

And now with the COVID pandemic and with healthcare in the national spotlight, choosing a topic on health is sure to push people’s buttons (and that’s what you want!).

Do you feel strongly about any of these topics?

  • Should healthcare be a basic right in the US like in other countries? (Universal healthcare)
  • Should people with terminal diseases have the right to decide when to end their own lives?
  • Should drug addiction be treated as a health issue rather than a criminal issue?
  • Should health insurance cover vision, dental, and mental health?
  • What should be done about America’s obesity issue?
  • Should all healthcare be individual and not tied to employment?
  • Would incentives from health insurance companies help more people take better care of their health?
  • In a public health crisis, like COVID-19, should public health take precedent over individual freedom?
  • Should maternity leave be a guaranteed employment benefit? What about paternity leave?
  • Should junk food and sugary drinks be banned from elementary schools?
  • Is gender bias in healthcare still an issue today? Is racial bias?

TikTok, Instagram, Facebook, Pinterest, Twitter
 So many people are addicted to social media. What are we sharing when we post our curated lives on social media? What does that add to our lives? What does it take away?

A more recent phenomenon with social media has been to use it for business and for causes. Who benefits from these new uses?

Here are some topics for you to explore.

  • Is Instagram bad for body image?
  • Should all social media platforms have clear terms of service that apply to everyone?
  • Is social media bad for developing interpersonal communication?
  • Should your posts on social should affect your job?
  • Related: Is “cancel culture” a positive or negative movement?
  • Should social media continue to be used as a form of marketing?
  • What should be done about cyber-bullying?
  • How much responsibility do you have for what you post online?
  • Is social media effective for activism?
  • Are the negative effects of social media the same for men and women?

Technology is a part of our lives, whether we love it or hate it, and the rate at which technological advances are made is just going to continue increasing. While some technological advancements have made our lives easier, there are definitely some drawbacks.

Don’t believe that technology is all that important? Ponder for one moment: what would happen if you lost your Smartphone?

Are any of these topics particularly interesting to you?

  • Is automation causing job loss?
  • When upgrading technology, such as a laptop, phone, or tablet, should you be able to trade in your old technology?
  • Should elementary school kids have smart phones?
  • Is virtual medicine as effective as seeing a doctor in their office?
  • Is gamification a good way to help students learn?
  • Should state governments be responsible for ensuring that internet access is widely available?
  • What do you think about net neutrality?
  • How does remote learning compare to in-school learning?
  • Does technology increase work productivity?
  • Technology has advanced globalization. What are the consequences of this?

Years of our lives are spent in school, learning. Some people cannot wait to finish high school, while other people continue their education beyond high school. Different stakeholders (students, parents, teachers, administrators, policy makers) have very different ideas about how education should be run, who it benefits, what its purpose is, and how it should be paid for.

You’re writing this essay for a class, right? Go ahead and choose a topic about education and surprise your instructor.

Here are some topics you might be interested in writing about.

  • Should education in trades be more promoted?
  • Who should provide supplies for young students?
  • Should high schools teach financial skills?
  • Should the arts be part of elementary education?
  • Does cursive writing still need to be taught?
  • How should sex education be taught?
  • Should school funding be tied to standardized test scores?
  • Should charter schools, which are independent of the public school system and sometimes privately owned, continue to be publicly funded??
  • Should schools adopt pass/fail rather than letter grades?
  • Should physical education continue to be a class in school?

Who doesn’t have strong opinions about money? In the US, capitalism reigns supreme, but people are starting to wonder if that’s really the best system for our society. Is the American Dream still a possibility? What can be done about the growing wealth inequality? Should anything be done at all?

It seems that people who have money don’t think about it much, while people who don’t have money sometimes can’t think of anything else.

See any topics below that you’d like to explore?

  • Should the minimum wage be determined at the state level rather than at the federal level?
  • Should credit card companies offer credit to people without jobs?
  • Should there be a maximum wage as well as a minimum wage?
  • Is the stock market the best way to measure the overall health of the economy?
  • Should there be a wealth tax on the very rich?
  • Should there be Universal Basic Income?
  • Is it unethical to be a billionaire?
  • What should be done about growing wealth inequality in the US?
  • Is it true that money can’t buy happiness?
  • What is an accurate indicator of the state of the national economy?

You can’t live without it, so let’s talk about it! There are some people who don’t think much about food and only eat because they need to in order to stay alive (Who are those people?) For the rest of us, food is a topic we have very strong opinions about!

Is it lunchtime yet?

Here are a few ideas for your consideration.

  • Should high fructose corn syrup be eliminated from foods?
  • Should community gardens be subsidized?
  • Is eating local food better for the environment than eating vegetarian?
  • Does eating vegan help save the environment?
  • Is industrial farming unhealthy for both humans and animals?
  • Should picky eaters be encouraged to eat more diverse food?
  • Is eating meat unethical?
  • Should grocery stores and restaurants give away unused food instead of throwing it away?
  • What should be done about food deserts?
  • Are genetically modified foods safe for consumption?

Since the US is such a diverse nation that deciding the country’s rules and laws is a challenge. But these rules and laws are necessary for the smooth functioning of society. Everyone seems to have something to say about what our society’s priorities should be. What is the responsibility of society as a whole, versus the rights of an individual?

Do any of these choices sound appealing to you?

  • If a student is bullied, should the bully’s parents be fined?
  • Should the driving age be raised to 18?
  • Should gay couples not be allowed to adopt?
  • Should recycling be mandatory?
  • Should single parents be allowed to adopt?
  • Should marijuana be legalized in the US?
  • Should the death penalty be abolished?
  • Should a woman always have the right to choose?
  • Should gun ownership be more regulated?
  • Should single mothers receive assistance from the government?

Before you turn in that paper, don’t forget to cite your sources in APA format , MLA format , or a style of your choice.

Didn’t find anything that interested you in the other categories? Try this list! These are all controversial hot-button topics that would make for interesting persuasive essays.

Remember that you should pick a topic you feel strongly about. Use those strong feelings to persuade your audience to agree with your position.

See anything you like here?

  • Is gender a socially constructed norm?
  • Is race a real biological distinction?
  • Are video games harmful?
  • What should be done about the separation of church and state?
  • Should pregnant couples be required to take parenting classes?
  • What can be done about domestic terrorist groups?
  • Should animal testing be abolished?
  • Should climate change be treated as a national emergency?
  • Should the Supreme Court be expanded?
  • What can be done about toxic masculinity?
  • What is the true cost of the Green New Deal?
  • Are segregated schools (all-boys schools, all-girls schools) more conducive to learning?
  • Should parents be able to opt their children out of standardized testing?
  • Is Blue Lives Matter a true/false equivalent to Black Lives Matter?
  • Should the patriarchy be smashed?
  • Why do people watch reality TV shows?
  • Is there an age when people shouldn’t be allowed to drive anymore?
  • Should the US spend as much as it does on its military?
  • What’s the problem with gerrymandering?
  • Should shaming (e.g., children, students, community members, etc.) be used as a form of discipline or punishment?
  • Choose a controversial topic you feel strongly about. Remember you need to convince your readers to agree with you, and that’s easier to do when you have a strong opinion.
  • Make sure you are clear on the reasons behind your opinion. You might feel strongly about something and not know why. If you don’t have reasons to support your opinion, it might not be a good topic for you to use.
  • Try to use emotional appeal to get your points across. Yes, you can use logic and authority for your reasons, but persuasion is more about using pathos (an appeal to emotion) than logos (logic) or ethos (ethics and values).
  • If you are drawing a blank and have no topic ideas, take a look at some of our suggestions below!

The topics are all framed as questions. It’s your answer to the question that will determine your position, either for or against.

For more persuasive help, check out these guides:

  • how to write a persuasive essay
  • persuasive essay outline
  • persuasive essay template
  • persuasive essay example

Some people use these two terms – persuasive and argumentative – interchangeably. However, there is a distinction.

A persuasive essay uses emotional appeal to convince the reader to agree with the author’s position on an issue. The author may also present reasoning based on ethical standards. Think of a persuasive essay like a commercial or an ad. You’re trying to convince your audience buy into your opinion.

An argumentative essay is built around logical reasoning and evidence.  You try to convince someone to agree with your position by appealing to their sense of logic. You also need to address their counterarguments. Think of an argumentative essay like a debate. Bring in all the facts and authority to back up your position.

Make sure you follow your assignment guidelines so you know how you should be writing your persuasive essay! If you’re not sure, ask your instructor.

Framed paper

What’s included with a Chegg Writing subscription

  • Unlimited number of paper scans
  • Plagiarism detection: Check against billions of sources
  • Expert proofreading for papers on any subject
  • Grammar scans for 200+ types of common errors
  • Automatically create & save citations in 7,000+ styles
  • Cancel subscription anytime, no obligation
  • How to Order

User Icon

Persuasive Essay Guide

Persuasive Essay Topics

Caleb S.

A Catalogue of 300 Best Persuasive Essay Topics for Students

24 min read

Persuasive Essay Topics

People also read

A Comprehensive Guide to Writing an Effective Persuasive Essay

Persuasive Essay Outline - A Complete Guide

30+ Persuasive Essay Examples To Get You Started

Read Excellent Examples of Persuasive Essay About Gun Control

How to Write a Persuasive Essay About Covid19 | Examples & Tips

How To Write A Persuasive Essay On Abortion

Learn to Write a Persuasive Essay About Business With 5 Best Examples

Check Out 14 Persuasive Essays About Online Education Examples

Persuasive Essay About Smoking - Making a Powerful Argument with Examples

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.

Order essay

Paper Due? Why Suffer? That's our Job

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.

Tough Essay Due? Hire Tough Writers!

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 clichĂ©s 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!

AI Essay Bot

Write Essay Within 60 Seconds!

Caleb S.

Caleb S. has been providing writing services for over five years and has a Masters degree from Oxford University. He is an expert in his craft and takes great pride in helping students achieve their academic goals. Caleb is a dedicated professional who always puts his clients first.

Get Help

Paper Due? Why Suffer? That’s our Job!

Keep reading

Persuasive Essay

110+ Irresistible Persuasive Essay Topics And Titles

blog image

Persuasive essays are the type of essays that aim to influence the thoughts and ideas of the readers with the help of supporting evidence. The most crucial part of a convincing essay is the topic or the thesis statement, because it provides a direction to the entire essay.

If you are assigned to write a persuasive essay and you have no ideas or topics in mind, checkout this blog for the best  paper writing help  in effective essay topics for your highschool and college assignments.

persuasive essay topics for college

Table of Contents

Persuasive Essay Topics For College

These essays can be written on any topic because they cover a vast range of studies. In the below section, we have divided the persuasive writing examples and titles into different categories.

20 Persuasive Essay Prompts About Science And Technology

The incredible science and technological research are ever changing sectors of life that always bring new research papers, inventions, and advancements for the students to observe and analyze. So we have provided tons of ideas whether it is for tech or  science research topics  for students. Now by continuing the legacy we are taking readers towards the persuasive essay topics college students can write on in this category. 

  • Is a trip to the moon possible in the near future?
  • What are the chances that humans can live on Mars?
  • What do the vaccines do?
  • How screen time affects physical health?
  • Climate Change: Reality or Hoax
  • Safety on Social media
  • Chances of Consumer Data Theft
  • Stopping Animal Testing
  • Are placebos ethical?
  • Why does AI need to Stop?
  • What are the chances of the FBI monitoring our internet history?
  • Can Solar Storm End the Internet of the world?
  • Science Labs importance in Colleges
  • Most needed Technological advancements
  • Are genetically modified foods safe?
  • How is space exploration wasting earth resources?
  • Should People be allowed to clone themselves?
  • What are the chances that aliens are already on earth?
  • Why Technology is becoming a threat?
  • What is the scientific solution for pollution?

Easy Convincing Essay Topics About Sports

Sports are an everyday part of our lives and also on the international level where they represent the athletic expertise of countries. Following are the best topics for persuasive essays in the category of sports and activities.

  • Why Trans Women shouldn’t be Allowed in Women’s Sports?
  • The best sports in the world 
  • World Olympics and Its Advantages
  • Why are sports not the reason students fail?
  • Why Professional athletes needs to pay less
  • What’s better? Watching or Playing Sports
  • How Sports contribute in Country’s development
  • Summer Vs Winter Sports
  • Fundamental of Professional Sports 
  • Gender biases in Sports committees
  • Why is Athletic Pharmacology so important?
  • Why do college athletes need to be paid?
  • Stop Denying that Cheerleading is a Sport.
  • Michael Jordan Vs Labron James
  • Is Basketball only for Tall players?
  • Muggsy Bogues: The Shortest NBA Player 
  • Why football is so great of a sport
  • How does a sport represent country 
  • Most popular sports around the world
  • What sports can be played even in rain

Best Persuasive Essay Topics About Entertainment

Entertainment industry is one of the top grossing and most followed industries all over the world. Fans all around the world are always ready to read about their favorite stars and their life. The following essay topics given by  our writers  are falling into the entertainment category.

  • Best Rock Bands of The Century 
  • BTS: The Biggest Boyband In The World
  • Most popular Genres of Movies
  • Should criminal documentaries be banned?
  • Why shouldn’t live concerts be recorded?
  • Movie at home or Movie at Theater
  • Horror or Thriller: What is more Adrenaline Rushing?
  • Movies that will always be remembered
  • Marvelous Actresses around the world. 
  • Does sad music makes you even sadder
  • Songs that are most relatable 
  • Best ever written movie scripts 
  • The impact of Celebrity Endorsement on Society
  • Best Ad campaigns around the world 
  • Why are villains more interesting in the world?
  • Luxury Fashion Brands and their Ambassadors
  • Why Celebrities should have the right to privacy?
  • Paparazzi needs to be banned
  • Mass Media influence on Culture
  • Can Celebrities be our role models?

Examples of Persuasive Essay Titles About Social Issues

Social Issues are the part of most debates and discussion and this blog will be incomplete without discussing persuasive essay topics that are focused on elaborating and evaluating social issues.

  • Why are taxes unfair?
  • Gender Biases in Military Drafting
  • Is capital punishment ethical?
  • Why should we help the homeless people?
  • Why do drunk drivers need to be punished more?
  • Women role in government 
  • Is social media beneficial and harmful?
  • Is United Nations actually functional 
  • What is the most unjust law in the country?
  • Is America Most powerful country in the world 
  • Aftermath of world wars on Europe
  • Reforms in Criminal Justice system
  • Racial Profiling and Its impact on Society
  • Gender inequality at workplace
  • Police surveillance and criminal arrestation
  • Mass media role in invading privacy 
  • Political policies that needs to be changed 
  • Healthcare bias in modern society
  • Systematic Racism in United States
  •  Impact of Vietnam Wars
  • Food Scarcity Around the World
  • What are the biggest social stereotypes?

Ideas of Persuasive Essay Topics About Education

Education sector is one of the most crucial in every country and every day there are researchers and case studies that debate over how to improve and expand the impact of education. This section is going to look over the effective essay that covers the  high school research topics  about students, and the education system.

  • Why is the Education system failing?
  • Effectiveness of Finland Education System
  • Is physical education necessary in colleges?
  • How education causes student suicide?
  • Is having college education required to have a good career
  • Why sex education is important in school?
  • Do students have same rights as adults
  • Why do school need to reform their policy
  • Is practical learning better than classroom learning?
  • Why do tests need to be innovative?
  • How to make graduation ceremony memorable
  • Life skills that school failed to teach students
  • Why school needs to be more safe
  • Bullying at school
  • How does schools encourage bullying
  • Do students have freedom of speech
  • Why should teachers also go through professional tests?
  • Importance of sports in school.

Best Persuasive Essay Topics About History

History elaborates on human civilization and all the events that happened in human history, whether it’s political, artistical, or archaeological prospects of life. The following topics are going to discuss convincing essays to convert into  history research paper topics  later on.

  • The American Revolution
  • Understanding the side effects of cold war
  • Industrial revolution and Child labor
  • Understanding what caused the great depression
  • Why did the Vietnam war break out?
  • Martin luther king Jr.’s I have a dream
  • Biggest Revolutions in The History Of United States
  • Historical Figures Who Shaped The World
  • How are African Americans for their rights?
  • The History of The Roman Empire
  • Everything you need to know about the European settlement 
  • Was the industrial revolution in England a great idea?
  • Leaders who were assassinated
  • How do cults came into being
  • Waco Siege and its impact 

Persuasive Essay Introduction Example

You have selected a topic and gathered your thoughts and ideas before writing. The very first thing you will encounter is the introduction of the essay. An Introduction is what gives direction to your essay and introduces the topic to your audience. It should be compelling and interesting enough to hook the audience till the end.

Introduction can be very challenging because of the pressure of grabbing the attention of the audience along with introducing your topic in the most concise and clear language.If you are not sure how to write the introduction of your essay, we’ve got your back. Feel free to get intouch with our  essay writing services  to get the best crafted essay.

EXAMPLE 

Below we have shared a persuasive essay introduction example to make it easy for you to start your essay.

Essay Title:

 â€˜I have a dream.’_ Martin Luther King Jr.

“Let freedom ring from Stone Mountain of Georgia.

Let freedom ring from the Lookout Mountain of Tennessee.

Let freedom ring from every hill and molehill of Mississippi.

From every mountainside, let freedom ring.

Free at last! Free at last! Thank God Almighty, we are free at last!

August 30, 1963, that was the day Martin Luther King Jr. delivered one of the greatest speeches of all time. He was the civil rights activist who fought for liberation of black people and the abolishment of slavery. The speech ‘I have a dream’ has impacted the world of injustice like such a lightning strike that even after 60 years, his words are inspiring and motivating the generations. This essay aims to discover what makes his speech so impactful and out of the world.

Wrapping Up

Persuasive essays are one of the most popular types of essays that require the writer to gather the idea, develop the argument, and back it with strong evidence. The primary aim of this essay is to influence the thoughts, judgements, ideas, and perspective of the reader.

Stronger topics need to have a powerful thesis statement. This blog is an ideal guide for choosing an impressive title for your essay assignment. You can pick any topic from your respective category to write a killer essay.

Order Original Papers & Essays

Your First Custom Paper Sample is on Us!

timely deliveries

Timely Deliveries

premium quality

No Plagiarism & AI

unlimited revisions

100% Refund

Try Our Free Paper Writing Service

Related blogs.

blog-img

Connections with Writers and support

safe service

Privacy and Confidentiality Guarantee

quality-score

Average Quality Score

  • Grades 6-12
  • School Leaders

Fill your classroom library 📚

130 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. Learn the basics of this valuable skill, then use our big roundup of persuasive essay topics for practice.

What is persuasive writing?

In a persuasive essay, the writer uses a combination of facts and emotion to sway a reader to adopt their own point of view or take a specific action. Here are the general steps to writing persuasively:

  • State your position: Clearly and succinctly, state your desired opinion or outcome up front. This could be the point of view you want the reader to adopt (“Pineapple has no place on a pizza.”) or the action you want them to take (“All adults should educate themselves and vote in every election.”).
  • Provide evidence and support: Use facts to support your point of view, citing sources whenever you can. Explain how those facts back up your position, using logic and reason.
  • Anticipate counterarguments: It’s important to know your audience so you can anticipate any counterarguments they might make and try to overcome them.
  • Use emotional appeals: Persuasive essays are similar to argumentative essays, but they incorporate more emotion rather than sticking to facts and logic. For instance, you might try to anger, scare, or create a sense of pride in your reader so they’ll be more likely to agree with you.
  • Make a call to action: Finish strong with the specific action you’d like the reader to take, whether it’s voting responsibly or never putting pineapple on a pizza again.

Help students understand what strong persuasive writing looks like by exploring well-known examples of persuasive essays, speeches, ads, and more . Then, use the topics here to give them practice writing persuasively on their own.

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.

Persuasive Essay Topics: Do you think homework should be required, optional, or not given at all?

  • 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?
  • All students should wear school uniforms.
  • 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?
  • Should schools teach life skills like financial responsibility?
  • Does your school handle bullying well?
  • 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?
  • What are the ideal starting and ending hours for a school day?
  • 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?
  • Is attending college worth the time and effort?

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?
  • Schools should reduce or eliminate standardized testing.
  • 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.
  • Why is it important to vote?
  • Wealthy people should pay a higher tax rate.
  • 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?
  • Should free speech have any limitations?
  • 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 universal 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?
  • Is capital punishment ever ethical or justified?
  • Should we ban plastic bags and bottles?
  • Which is better, living in the city or in the country?
  • Immigration benefits the United States.
  • A border wall between Mexico and the United States is essential for reducing crime rates.
  • Should the United States have stronger gun regulations?
  • If I could make a new law, it would be 

  • Is Pluto a planet?
  • Should human cloning be legal?
  • Should vaccines be mandatory?
  • Do the risks of nuclear power outweigh the risks?
  • 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?
  • All people have a responsibility to help combat climate change.
  • 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?
  • Are humans responsible for an increase in climate change?
  • Should all communities be legally required to recycle?
  • 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?
  • Sports teams should have to pay to build their own arenas or stadiums rather than relying on the community.
  • Movie theater tickets are too expensive.
  • Should we allow little kids to play competitive sports?

Should we allow little kids to play competitive sports?

  • Youth sports have become too competitive.
  • Which is better, reading books or watching TV?
  • Are celebrities obligated to be positive role models for their fans?
  • Does playing violent video games make people more violent in real life?
  • Video games need more inclusive and diverse characters.
  • Are graphic novels just as valuable as traditional fiction books?
  • Women’s sports deserve equal funding and coverage as men’s sports.
  • 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?
  • Is hosting the Olympics a waste of a country’s money and resources?
  • College athletes should be allowed to accept a salary for playing.
  • 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?
  • Should high school athletes be required to maintain a minimum GPA to continue playing?
  • Contact sports like boxing and football are too dangerous.
  • Does reality TV actually depict real life?
  • Should all neighborhoods have free parks and playgrounds?
  • Are awards like the Grammys and Oscars biased and in need of reform?
  • What’s the best holiday?
  • The very best food of all time is 

  • Which make better pets, dogs or cats?
  • 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?
  • Everyone should eat dessert first.
  • 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 ., you might also like.

What one class should all high schools students be required to take and pass in order to graduate?

The Big List of Essay Topics for High School (120+ Ideas!)

Ideas to inspire every young writer! Continue Reading

Copyright © 2024. All rights reserved. 5335 Gate Parkway, Jacksonville, FL 32256

  • Homework Help
  • Essay Examples
  • Citation Generator

Writing Guides

  • Essay Title Generator
  • Essay Topic Generator
  • Essay Outline Generator
  • Flashcard Generator
  • Plagiarism Checker
  • Paraphrasing Tool
  • Conclusion Generator
  • Thesis Statement Generator
  • Introduction Generator
  • Literature Review Generator
  • Hypothesis Generator
  • Human Editing Service
  • Essay Hook Generator

Writing Guides  /  High Quality Persuasive Essay Topics (Updated for 2021)

High Quality Persuasive Essay Topics (Updated for 2021)

High Quality Persuasive Essay Topics

All of us use persuasion informally in our everyday lives and have done so since we were young. When you were younger, didn’t you try to persuade your mother to allow you to have dessert without eating your vegetables or to stay up late past your bedtime?  Haven’t you tried to persuade a friend to see a particular movie or to help you with your homework? Think of all the many ways you tried to persuade people to see your point of view. Now all you have to do is translate those same feelings into a persuasive essay.

However, a persuasive essay is a little bit different than how you use persuasion in daily life because you are trying to persuade someone to change his or her mind using a formal argumentative structure.  Your language needs to be academic, as you are maturing as a writer. You need to be as rational as possible, even when there is an emotional side to your argument. There should be two sides to the issue you are discussing and you should use logical as well as emotional reasoning to convey your thought process.

View 120,000+ High Quality Essay Examples

Learn-by-example to improve your academic writing

What is a Persuasive Essay?

Beginning a persuasive essay can seem daunting at first. Unlike conventional informative essays, a persuasive essay has to express a particular point-of-view.  The critical element of a persuasive essay is that it contains an arguable thesis, preferably stated in one sentence at the end of the first paragraph. All of us use persuasion informally in our everyday lives and have done so since we were young. When you were younger, didn’t you try to persuade your mother to allow you to have dessert without eating your vegetables or to stay up late past your bedtime?  Haven’t you tried to persuade a friend to see a particular movie or to help you with your homework?

But a persuasive essay is a little bit different than how you use persuasion in daily life because you are trying to persuade someone to change his or her mind using a formal argumentative structure.  There should be two sides to the issue you are discussing and you should use logical as well as emotional reasoning to convey your thought process.

How to Start a Persuasive Essay

Students often throw up their hands in despair when asked to create a persuasive thesis. “I don’t have any strong opinions on anything,” they often say.  The first step of writing a persuasive essay is to brainstorm ideas.  As yourself what do I believe?  What issue am I passionate about?

It cannot be stressed enough that it is extremely important that there are two sides to the issue you are arguing.  For a good essay, the two different sides should be compelling. For example, many students want to use the topic “you should stop smoking” for their persuasive essays.  But there are no really good arguments in favor of people choosing to smoke.  Yes, it is true that people still do smoke despite the overwhelming evidence that smoking is bad for their heath.  But there are no logical reasons to embrace this bad health habit. A persuasive claim must have a reasonable counter-argument using logos, ethos, and pathos (logic, ethics, and emotion).   Ask yourself: if you had to debate the opposite side of the issue you are arguing, could you do it? If not, you do not have a good topic for a persuasive essay.

Once you have selected your topic, it is time to do some more research. After learning more about the different sides of the issue, you can refine your thesis or perhaps even change it.  Have a good sense of your audience when reframing your claim. If your intended audience is extremely familiar with the topic, you will not need to give a great deal of background information. On the other hand, if you know your professor knows very little about the issue (for example, if your persuasive speech is about online bullying and you know that your teacher is not active on social media) you may need to provide a more extensive setup.  Even if you give information to your reader about the topic, however, don’t lose sight of the fact that you are not writing a purely informative essay.

What Are Persuasive Essay Topics?

The goal of a persuasive essay is to convince the reader to think or act differently. Persuasive essay topics can be about controversial subjects, but they are different from argumentative essay topics in several key ways.

For one, a persuasive essay does not use the same rhetorical devices as an argumentative essay no matter what essay topics you choose. A persuasive essay is similar to an argumentative essay in its overall structure but your advice should appeal to reason and urge the person to agree.

Second, a persuasive essay is more about getting the reader to take action or convincing the reader to adopt your point of view. An argument can be about an abstract issue or principle. With a persuasive essay topic, you genuinely want to urge the reader to take action, not just make a philosophical case about an issue.

How to Find Good Persuasive Essay Topics

Beginning a persuasive essay can seem daunting at first. The hardest part is figuring out what to write about. If you are being asked to write a persuasive essay on any topic whatsoever, you might find yourself wondering where to begin. Settling on a topic is never easy, even for expert writers.

This article will help you by giving you some good and unusual ideas that will impress your readers. You will learn about how to pick the best persuasive essay topics in any subject area, and make your persuasive essays stand out from the crowd.

However, sometimes you will be assigned a persuasive essay topic from your class or professor. If you have been assigned a specific topic, or have to pick a persuasive essay topic from within a specific subject area, this essay will also help you to write better. You will learn how to narrow down your topic and use rhetorical devices and strategies that will actually convince your reader to adopt your point of view.

Good Persuasive Essay Topics Are Specific

Unlike conventional informative essays, a persuasive essay has to express a particular point of view.  The critical element of a persuasive essay is that it contains an arguable thesis, preferably stated in one sentence at the end of the first paragraph. Ideally, your thesis not only shows what you believe, but also why. Get as specific as you can about what you are going to write about. Here are some examples:

Instead of: Jay Z is a better artist than Kanye West.

Go with: Jay Z is a better artist than Kanye West because his music is more sophisticated, his lyrics are more political, and his influence on popular culture is more positive.

Instead of: Meat should be banned in the United States.

Go with: Meat should be banned because it is bad for the environment, bad for health, and because it is unethical to kill animals.

Instead of: All American students should learn three languages by the time they are ten.

Go with: All American students should learn three languages by the time they are ten because it leads to expanded opportunities in the job market.

Persuasive Essay Topics That Interest YOU

Students often throw up their hands in despair when asked to create a persuasive thesis. “I don’t have any strong opinions on anything,” they often say.  The first step of writing a persuasive essay is to brainstorm ideas.  Do some soul searching. Ask yourself, “What do I believe, and why?” Or, “What issue am I passionate about?” You will write best about what you care about most.

You might be thinking, “How can I pick a topic that interests me if I know nothing about it?” Here’s where you need to do a little research online first. Even the most boring subjects can become interesting when they become controversial. Let’s say you know nothing about current events and politics but need to come up with a persuasive essay topic. Start by doing a Google search on current events. You can focus your search on a specific country or issue like oil and energy, climate change, or gender. Pretty soon you can come up with some good persuasive essay topics like these, based on current events:

  • China recently decided to ban the internal combustion engine by 2040, and the United States should do the same.
  • Trump is correct, and the United States should build a border wall across not only the southern border with Mexico but also along the northern border with Canada.
  • Aung San Suu Kyi should have her Nobel Peace Prize revoked because of the way she is treating the Rohingya.

Topics Should Have At Least Two Sides

It cannot be stressed enough that it is extremely important that there are two sides to the issue with any persuasive essay topic.  To write a good persuasive essay, you should be able to convincingly argue two or more points of view, which means you need to be open minded and willing to do research. Also, the two or more different sides of the issue should be compelling. You want your reader to remain interested in the persuasive essay topics.

For example, let’s say you want to persuade the reader to stop smoking as the persuasive essay topic. Persuading the reader to stop smoking might have been a good persuasive essay topic fifty years ago, but now most people are aware of why smoking is bad and there are few good arguments in favor of smoking. Yes, it is true that people still do smoke despite the overwhelming evidence that smoking is bad for their heath, but there are no logical reasons to embrace this bad health habit. For this reason, smoking is not usually a good persuasive essay topic.

[related essays]

Playing Devil’s Advocate

Have you heard of the term “devil’s advocate?” Playing the devil’s advocate means arguing for a position you do not necessarily agree in yourself, or a position that could even be considered unethical. It means arguing for the sake of arguing. When assigned a persuasive essay topic, you might find yourself in the position of playing the devil’s advocate. Playing the devil’s advocate is one of the best ways to improve your skills in writing persuasive essays. For example, if you truly believe that abortion is immoral, it can be helpful to write a persuasive essay on the topic of why abortion should be legal. Playing the devil’s advocate ensures that you will reveal both or multiple sides of an issue.

Using Rhetoric

Rhetorical devices can transform a good persuasive essay topic into a great persuasive essay. The three primary elements of any good rhetoric include pathos, ethos, and logos (emotion, credibility, and logic). Pathos refers to the emotional undercurrent in your persuasive essay. With pathos, you prevent your essay from being dry and boring. This is why it is important that you care about your subject. Writers who care about the subject will write better persuasive essays. Ethos refers to the overall credibility of your claim, which is why you need to find credible resources including primary and secondary sources that either substantiate your persuasive essay topic or provide the counter-argument. Finally, logos is the logical framework you use to convince your reader. Few people can be won over by ethos or pathos alone. You need logic and reason to make a good case.

Remember the importance of research in a persuasive essay topic. Research adds the logos to your persuasive essay. Without research, your persuasive essay will rely too heavily on pathos, or emotion. Although emotions are necessary to ultimately persuade people to act, few people can be persuaded only by emotion.

Rhetorical Devices

There are also a number of advanced rhetorical devices you can use to make your persuasive essay topic even better. Some of these include analogies, metaphors, similes, and allegories. When you use rhetorical devices like analogies, you build conceptual bridges in the reader’s mind, linking what they already know with what you are trying to convince them of. Therefore, you can relate material they do not necessarily understand in ways that becomes more familiar to them, using language, symbols, and imagery your reader knows. Using metaphors and analogies also improves your writing. You can learn how to develop and improve your rhetorical skills by referring to a writing tutor or asking your professor for advice.

Agree to Disagree

Remember, a persuasive claim must have a reasonable counter-argument using logos, ethos, and pathos. You do need to anticipate that other people will disagree with you. Your persuasive essay topic will be stronger when you can put yourself in the shoes of your reader. Ask yourself: if you had to debate the opposite side of the issue you are arguing, could you do it? What would someone who holds the opposite point of view say in response to your persuasive essay topic? If cannot anticipate counterclaims, perhaps you do not have a good topic for a persuasive essay. As one college points out, you need to anticipate that your reader will disagree with you when writing a good persuasive essay.

For example, if you are persuading your reader that cannabis should be legal at the level of federal government, you would anticipate some of the counterarguments. The counterarguments might include references to health scares, or to being afraid that children would have easy access to drugs. When you anticipate the counterargument, you are well on your way towards recognizing good persuasive essay topics.

Good Persuasive Essay Topics

Consider the following persuasive essay topics. Do you believe you could argue both sides of the issue?

  • Being a vegetarian is healthier than being a meat-eater.
  • The U.S. should switch to a single-payer healthcare system.
  • The U.S. should legalize same-sex marriage in every state.
  • Members of Congress should be subject to term limits.
  • NCAA athletes should receive a salary.
  • GMOs should not be allowed in the food supply.
  • Marijuana should be legal in the U.S. for medicinal purposes.

Interesting Persuasive Essay Topics

Interesting persuasive essay topics are unique, rather than subjects your teachers or professors have heard about a million times before. Consider the following as unique persuasive essay topics.

  • Carriage horses should be banned in New York City.
  • Religious institutions should be able to be taxed in the United States.
  • The U.S. should not have invaded Iraq.
  • All businesses should be required to cover employees’ contraception through their health plans.
  • The current movie rating system should be liberalized to allow teenagers into R rated films.
  • Teenagers should be tried as adults when they commit violent crimes.

Topics for College Students

College students are expected to have a wide range of knowledge and be able to write convincingly about any topic. Depending on the class you are taking, the persuasive essay topics you choose could be about anything from agriculture to fine art. Consider some of the following persuasive essay topics for college students to get you started. You can also refer to a New York Times blogger for more persuasive essay topic ideas .

  • Van Gogh is an overrated artist.
  • Puerto Rico should be the 51 st state in the union.
  • The South should have been allowed to cede and form their own country.
  • All cities should offer free public WiFi.
  • Donald Trump can and should be impeached.
  • Meat should be banned.
  • The death penalty should be abolished.
  • There should be a Constitutional Amendment guaranteeing equal pay for men and women.

Topics for High School Students

High school students are still learning the art of persuasion. The persuasive essay topics high school students choose reflects their level of education, the classes they are taking, and their personal interests. Some good persuasive essay topics for high school students are about their daily lives or education. Other persuasive essay topics for high school students are more familiar topics. Consider some of the following persuasive essay topics, which you can use when you have been given the option to write about anything you want.

  • Schools should have dress codes.
  • The benefits of a college education outweigh the costs.
  • You should adopt your next pet from a shelter.
  • School lunches should have higher nutritional standards.
  • Schools should have a zero-tolerance policy regarding bullying.
  • The school year should be longer.
  • The SAT should not be a significant factor in college admissions.
  • Sugar should be banned in all public school cafeterias.

The Importance of Doing Research On Persuasive Essay Topics

Once you have selected your topic, it is time to do a lot of research. After learning more about the different sides of the issue, you can refine your thesis or perhaps even change it.  Have a good sense of your audience when reframing your claim.

If your intended audience is extremely familiar with the topic, you will not need to give a great deal of background information. On the other hand, if you know your professor knows very little about the issue (for example, if your persuasive speech is about online bullying and you know that your teacher is not active on social media) you may need to provide a more extensive setup.  Even if you give information to your reader about the topic, however, don’t lose sight of the fact that you are not writing a purely informative essay.

What it Takes to Write About Any Persuasive Essay Topic

Although research is not necessarily required when writing a persuasive essay, doing research can help you write the best possible persuasive essay. In some cases, research will be essential for a good persuasive essay. It helps to know how to do research both in libraries and online.

Persuasive essay topics can be about things you simply feel passionate about but do not know why. Unless you are a famous expert in your field, your reader cannot just take your word on faith. You need to do research to substantiate your claims. Researching your persuasive essay topic also adds credibility to your work.

Credibility is the essence of ethos, one of the primary rhetorical strategies the experts use. Therefore, research adds both logos and ethos to your persuasive essay topic. You have the facts to solidify your claim, and to show readers that you know what you are talking about. Yet by doing research, you are also citing the experts in the field, including researchers and scholars who have a great degree of credibility when they are published in peer-reviewed journals. Take care to refer to credible sources as much as possible.

Remember that Good Persuasive Essay Topics Are Like Advertising

The purpose of all advertising is to persuade you—the consumer—to buy products or services. Companies spend billions of dollars on marketing schemes and strategies because it pays off. A good persuasive essay topic is like a good marketing campaign . Your goal is to get your readers to change their thoughts, feelings, or behaviors.

Next time you watch an advertisement anywhere, try and pay attention to the methods they are using to persuade you . Consider all advertisements as persuasive essay topics and it may help you. The next time you are looking for a good persuasive essay topic, or want to write a better persuasive essay, pretend you are a marketing executive!

Advertising is persuasive because it relies on pathos, evoking emotion in you. When you pick a persuasive essay topic to write about, remember to get passionate about your cause. As important as research is to your persuasive essay, you need to interject emotion into your writing to prevent the paper from being dry, boring, or too much like an ordinary term paper. A persuasive essay has emotion, by definition, but your emotional appeals are backed up by research, evidence, and reason.

Ultimately, you should be writing about persuasive essay topics that interest you. In this article, we tried to give you some ideas about what to write about no matter what class you are taking. If you are taking an English composition class and the instructor has asked you to pick any subject, remember to start with what you know.

Sometimes you will be assigned a persuasive essay topic you know nothing about. Don’t worry! You can always seek help from a writing tutor online or in person. Even subjects you know little about can become interesting when you do enough preliminary research and find out why and how you can persuade the reader. Alternatively, you can start doing research now on the subject so that you get to know all sides of the issue. With the best tools, writing a persuasive essay is not as hard as you think, and it can even be fun.

Take the first step to becoming a better academic writer.

Writing tools.

  • How to write a research proposal 2021 guide
  • Guide to citing in MLA
  • Guide to citing in APA format
  • Chicago style citation guide
  • Harvard referencing and citing guide
  • How to complete an informative essay outline

Unlock Your Writing Potential with Our AI Essay Writing Assistant

Unlock Your Writing Potential with Our AI Essay Writing Assistant

The Negative Impacts of Artificial Intelligence on Tactile Learning

The Negative Impacts of Artificial Intelligence on Tactile Learning

Overcome Your Writer’s Block:  Essay Writing Tips for Students

Overcome Your Writer’s Block: Essay Writing Tips for Students

How to Write a Synthesis Essay: Tips and Techniques

How to Write a Synthesis Essay: Tips and Techniques

  • Translators
  • Graphic Designers

Solve

Please enter the email address you used for your account. Your sign in information will be sent to your email address after it has been verified.

75 Persuasive Essay Topic Ideas

JBirdwellBranson

The persuasive essay is one type of writing that you will likely come across in your academic career. A persuasive essay, if you're unfamiliar, is one in which you have to make an argument. You need to choose a side and prove why you're correct by using hard evidence and convincing language. The idea is that you want to convince the reader that your argument is the right one, so you'll definitely want to pick a topic that you're passionate about and something that you'll get excited about researching and writing. This exercise is designed so that you can clearly articulate your opinion and understand why it's important to have evidence to back up your claim.

Your teacher or instructor will probably have specific guidelines on what your essay should entail, but you might have a little bit of free reign on what kinds of topics you can explore and argue about in your essay. With so many things to argue about and for, it might be a little overwhelming to come up with a topic on your own. When you feel like you're stuck on brainstorming ideas, take a look at the following list of 75 persuasive essay topics. You may find something you can use, or something you can adapt for the specific guidelines of your paper. Happy writing!

Educational persuasive essay topics

There are so many things that can be discussed when it comes to education. In our country (and globally), there are many different opinions on how education should be handled and what tactics teachers or academic administrators should use. Here are a few topics on education (which could be expanded or changed to fit your teacher's guidelines) that might be of interest to you.

  • Should soda be offered in school cafeterias?
  • Should schools teach abstinence-only education?
  • Why should schools teach financial literacy?
  • Do all students need to go to college?
  • Should students take a gap year after high school?
  • Do all students need to learn a foreign language?
  • Is online or homeschool an effective way to learn?
  • Should standardized tests determine whether or not you go on to another grade level?
  • Should all students be required to participate in the arts?
  • Should a college education be free?
  • Should high school journalists be protected under the First Amendment?
  • Some universities just have pass/fail grades instead of letter grades. How do you feel about this?
  • Should teachers/professors be unbiased in the classroom?
  • Should you still learn cursive in elementary school? What are the disadvantages/ advantages?
  • Many college campuses have speakers come in occasionally. These speakers can range in political opinion and some can be controversial. Should you let speakers come to schools that have controversial rhetoric or ideas to uphold free speech?

Political persuasive essay topics

They say that you should never talk about politics or religion because it's not polite. But in a persuasive essay, that rule is completely extinguished. Politics and religion are hotbed subjects for a reason—because so many people have radically different ideas of how a society and a country should operate. What side of these political persuasive topics are you on? Take a stab at one of these and the paper will likely fly out onto the keyboard.

  • Should protesters be allowed to block traffic? Do they pose a threat to public safety?
  • Why should you vote?
  • Should same-sex marriage be legal?
  • What is your opinion on protecting religious liberties?
  • What is your opinion on separating church and state?
  • Why has the country become so divided politically over the past few years? Can it be fixed?
  • Many industries (like coal and manufacturing) are tough to find a job in and many Americans are out of work. How should we solve this problem?
  • Should citizens under 18 be able to vote?
  • Should a National Voter ID law be passed to avoid voter fraud?
  • What does the phrase "fake news" mean?
  • Local newspapers are dwindling. What should be done, if anything, about this problem?
  • Should local municipalities do more to combat global warming? If so, how?
  • How should we reduce the threat of terrorism in the United States?
  • Females have traditionally lower participation in politics. Why do you think that is?
  • Some people say that the top 1% of earners don't pay enough taxes. How do you feel about this?
  • Will a huge wall on the southern border with Mexico solve the United States' immigration problem?
  • How should we solve the United States' immigration problem?
  • The voter turnout for the 2016 presidential election was less than 60%, which is much lower than in other democratic societies. Why do you think this is and what can be done about it (or should anything be done about it)?
  • Millennials are graduating college with a lot of student loan debt. What should be done to avoid a debt crisis?
  • Many say that minimum wage jobs are low skill and the workers in them shouldn't be compensated more for their work, but others claim that a minimum wage job isn't enough money to live off of. Which side do you land on?
  • What do you think of celebrities who are vocal about environmental issues but who frequently fly on private, and not commercial, jets?

Crime and legal persuasive essay topics

Crime in any society is an unfortunate inevitability. Why does crime happen and what should be done about it? These are just a few of the things to explore in these crime/legal persuasive essay topics.

  • What should we do about a city with a high crime rate like Chicago?
  • Should guns be allowed on college campuses?
  • Should gun laws be more restrictive?
  • Do we have a right to privacy?
  • Trends have shown that many recent terrorists have been convicted or accused of domestic violence. What should be done and how do you feel about this?
  • Should we have the death penalty? If so, when should it be used?
  • Many prisoners are incarcerated for minor drug charges (such as possession of drugs or drug paraphernalia). Should we try to rehabilitate these prisoners or should they serve their full sentences?
  • Colorado has legalized marijuana for recreational purposes. What is your opinion of this?
  • Do you think marijuana is a gateway drug which leads some users to harder drugs?
  • Can criminals be rehabilitated?
  • Many prisoners who enter the system are likely to have a high recurrence of criminal activity. What can be done to solve this?
  • Many people are starting to use drones for recreational activity. Should there be restrictions on where and how you can use your personal drone?
  • Self-driving cars are expected to become increasingly used on city roads. If a self-driving car gets into an accident, whose fault is it? The engineer's?

Health persuasive essay topics

Health is something that we all have to worry about. Whether it's our own health or the health of a loved one, there are many things to think about and research on. What's your opinion on the healthcare system in our country? Should we treat drug addiction like a disease? How should we handle end-of-life care? Try out one of these essay topics to research and gain insight on some of the biggest challenges and questions that our society faces when it comes to health.

  • Opioid addiction is at an all-time high in states like Ohio. What should we do to combat this?
  • Should healthcare be universal?
  • How do you feel about paternity leave?
  • Should women get guaranteed maternity leave?
  • The state of California requires that you display nutrition facts about menu items in restaurants. Should all states do this?
  • Should fast food be "sin taxed" like cigarettes are?
  • There is an effort to repeal and replace the Affordable Care Act. Should we do this or not? If we should, what improvements can be made to a replacement act?
  • Many soldiers are coming back from warfare with Post Traumatic Stress Disorder. What should we do to help them?
  • Many Americans are overweight. What has caused this health crisis and what can be done about it?
  • Should vitamins and supplements be more tightly regulated?
  • Should health insurance companies provide more financial incentives for subscribers to work out and eat more healthfully?

Women's and gender persuasive essay topics

Are there inherent differences between men and women or is that just a societal myth? Women have gained a lot more rights over the last 100 years in America, but some say they still have a long way to go before they achieve equal rights. How do you feel about this and other women's and gender issues? Explore the following fascinating topics.

  • Women have what is known as the "second shift" (meaning that as soon as they get home from work they have additional responsibilities that require their attention immediately). What do you think about this concept and should anything be done about it?
  • There are many women's rights and minority rights advocates. Should there be men's rights advocacy groups? What about Caucasian advocacy groups?
  • Some people say that gender is a socially constructed norm. What do you think?
  • Women who participate in body building competitions are trying to build the "ideal" figure, which some claim is an outdated, sexist idea. But some argue that building muscles is considered a sport and a traditionally "masculine" idea. Which side do you agree with?
  • Some people think that beauty pageants are outdated and anti-feminist and shouldn't be televised anymore. How do you feel?
  • New wave feminism is the idea that feminism can encompass many different ideas of what it is to be a feminist. It's the idea that you can have choices (whether that's staying at home with children or trying to be a CEO). How do you feel about new wave feminism?

Miscellaneous persuasive essay topics

Of course, there are more categories of essay topics than what are listed above. Here are some additional essay topics if you haven't found one yet that captures your interest.

  • Does social media improve or hurt our society?
  • Is it important or frivolous to travel the world?
  • Many Americans watch a lot of reality TV shows. Why do you think this is?
  • With many people reading digital copies of books, are libraries necessary anymore?
  • Should anything be done to curb the rise in offensive lyrics in music?
  • Should pregnant women be allowed to park in handicapped parking spots?
  • Recent studies have shown that pets improve the mental and the physical health of their owners. Should pet-related expenses be tax-deductible?
  • What do you think about net neutrality?
  • With the rise in selfies and Instagram photo filtering apps, do you think we have become a more self-obsessed society?

JournalBuddies.com

JournalBuddies.com

Journal Buddies Jill | July 8, 2024 September 25, 2018 | Writing

Persuasive Essay Topics (31 Ideas!)

31 Persuasive Essay Topics — The persuasive essay is a difficult form to master, as it should be both convincing and emotionally resonant without straying over into the realm of false arguments and red herrings. For that reason, middle school is a wonderful time to introduce this writing form to students and help them learn about structuring and making coherent, thoughtful arguments that bring others around to their positions.

Middle School Persuasive Essay Topics

With these 31 new persuasive essay topics, students will have the chance to convince readers of their opinions on all sorts of issues.

From topics like the ethics of using real leather and fur to considering what age kids should be allowed to have their own cell phones, your class will form opinions and then work to persuade others of their ideas. To do so, they’ll need to practice their written communication skills as well as their critical thinking—and they’ll also need to add a healthy dash of pathos to their arguments.

Use these persuasive essay topics to help your middle school students learn all about what it takes to convince someone to come around to your side!

31 Persuasive Essay Topics (for Middle-Schoolers)

  • What aspect of our current school system is most in need of a new approach?
  • Are zoos ethical?
  • Should students be punished at school for things they post on social media at home?
  • Which historical figure deserves far more recognition than he or she receives?
  • Is technology progressing too slowly, at an appropriate rate, or too fast for our society?
  • What should the minimum voting age be?
  • Is it better to be good at coming up with ideas (a planner) or putting them into action (a doer)?
  • Is it okay to use real leather or real fur?
  • Should our government recognize religiously affiliated holidays?
  • What is the greatest book that was ever written?
  • Should people be required to attend school and receive an education?
  • What is the most important profession in today’s world—and do we value it appropriately as a society?
  • What political issue should we all be more concerned about?
  • Are negative political ads a good way for politicians to campaign?
  • Should students be allowed to use cell phones at school?

Middle School Topics for Persuasive Essay Writing

  • Is sexual education curriculum at our school adequate—or are there more things you need to learn?
  • Which of our constitutional rights is the most important?
  • What is the best way for people to define success?
  • Are group projects productive or a waste of time?
  • Should local historical landmarks be preserved or should people be able to develop them into something new?
  • Can kids ever make a difference?
  • What is the purpose of art?
  • Is today’s world a safer or more dangerous place than the world used to be?
  • What is the greatest challenge of being a woman in today’s world?
  • What is the greatest challenge of being a man in today’s world?
  • Which is better—a long, happy, boring life or a short, happy, exciting life?
  • Should our country have a draft?
  • Should teachers and principals be allowed to search your locker? If so, under what circumstances?
  • Do standardized tests effectively measure a student’s knowledge?
  • Does our society still need feminism? Why or why not?

Related Links & Resources

  • 33 Argumentative Essay Topics for Middle School
  • 54 Persuasive Writing Prompts for Students
  • Persuasive Essay Lesson Plan

Until next time, keep on writing!

If you enjoyed these Persuasive Essay Topics, please share them on Facebook, Twitter, and/or Pinterest. I appreciate it!

Sincerely, Jill journalbuddies.com creator and curator

Persuasive Writing Topic for Middle School Students

Tap to See Prompts 27 Amazing Picture Writing Prompts for Kids Power Up Your Pen: 157 Writing Prompt a Day Ideas 162 Creative Writing Topics and Ideas (Updated!) ------------Start of Om Added --------- @media (min-width: 320px) and (max-width: 767px) { .inside-right-sidebar { display: none !important; } } Search Now Offering You 19,000+ Prompts!

Jill -- Owner and Curator of JournalBuddies.com

Tap to See Prompts 27 Amazing Picture Writing Prompts for Kids Power Up Your Pen: 157 Writing Prompt a Day Ideas 162 Creative Writing Topics and Ideas (Updated!) Search Search Grade 1 Grade 2 Grade 3 Grade 4 Grade 5 Grade 6 Grade 7-8 Grade 9-12 All Ages ------------End of Om Added --------- Tags Essay Prompts , Essay Topics , essay topics for middle school , Essay Topics for Middle-Schoolers , Grade 6 , Grade 7 , Grade 7-8 , Grade 8 , Middle School , Middle School Kids , middle school students , Middle School Writing , Middle School Writing Prompts , middle schoolers , new persuasive essay topics , Persuasive Essay , Persuasive Essay Topics , writing form , Writing Prompts for Middle School , written communication div#postbottom { margin-top: 12px; } Search Now Offering You 19,000+ Prompts!

187 Impressive Higher English Persuasive Essay Topics [2024]

essay ideas persuasive

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
  • đŸ« Education
  • đŸ—łïž 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.

đŸ’Ș 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.” – TomĂĄĆĄ 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.

đŸ« 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.

đŸ—łïž 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
  • Share via Facebook
  • Share via X
  • Share via LinkedIn
  • Share via email

By clicking "Post Comment" you agree to IvyPanda’s Privacy Policy and Terms and Conditions . Your posts, along with your name, can be seen by all users.

This is so helpful, I’m going to use some of these topics with my students!

Thank you for your feedback! We greatly appreciate it!

essay ideas persuasive

6 tips for writing an opinion essay that will sway even the worst critics

Choose a juicy topic and give evidence to craft a compelling argument

essay ideas persuasive

Latest Articles

6 tips for writing a great opinion essay, are blueberries really blue how nature plays tricks on you, hong kong’s first mid-autumn drone show, festive events aim to boost tourism, hong kong teacher accused of sexually assaulting 16-year-old girl, hong kong blind union: 60 years of supporting city’s visually impaired, the lens: china schools’ recycling scheme raises questions about equity and sustainability.

essay ideas persuasive

Writing an effective opinion essay requires a clear stance, solid reasoning and compelling evidence.

Whether you are arguing for or against a hot-button issue, these six tips can help you craft a strong and persuasive piece.

With practice, you can effectively advocate for your viewpoint on any issue.

1. Choose a juicy topic

If you have the option to pick your topic, find a controversial issue that people have strong feelings about. It could be a current event, a social policy, or an ethical dilemma.

You can use topics such as the ethics of gene editing and designer babies, the pros and cons of vaccine mandates and the impact of social media on teen mental health.

The spicier, the better. No one wants to read about something boring.

2. Take a clear position

Don’t be wishy-washy. Be direct when you state your opinion. Make it clear where you stand and why you believe you are right. You can say, “I firmly believe that gene editing technology should be heavily regulated to prevent abuse.” Don’t be afraid to state your view with confidence. Your goal is to persuade the reader to see things from your perspective.

9 back-to-school idioms to help you pass English with flying colours

3. Bring the evidence

You cannot have the attitude that you are right just because you say so. Support your claims with solid proof, such as statistics, expert testimony, historical precedents, logical reasoning or personal anecdotes.

For instance, if you are writing about why teens should not be allowed to use social media in school, you can include data on the increased rates of anxiety, depression and cyberbullying among teens with high social media use. The more substantial your evidence, the more convincing your argument will be. Don’t forget to cite your sources.

4. Address counterarguments

Acknowledge that there are two sides to every story. Outline the key counterarguments, then explain why your position is still more valid or compelling. To illustrate, “Critics argue that the regulation of gene editing will stifle scientific progress, but the risks of unchecked development far outweigh these concerns.” This shows you have considered the full scope of the issue.

5. Use a logical structure

Guide your readers through your reasoning step-by-step. Start with an introduction that hooks the reader and lays out your thesis. Build your case in the body with smooth transitions between ideas, then wrap it all up in the conclusion. Keep it organised and easy to follow.

6. Write with passion and clarity

Don’t be afraid to let your unique voice shine through. Use vivid language, rhetorical devices, and an authoritative tone to make your argument feel compelling.

For example, compare these two sentences – “Social media has had a negative impact on teenagers” and “The epidemic of social media addiction has corrupted the mental well-being of the next generation”.

The second sentence uses more vivid, emotive language to convey the writer’s passionate stance on this issue. This creates a much more persuasive and authoritative tone than the dry, matter-of-fact phrasing of the first sentence.

At the same time, keep your points concise so your argument is easy for the reader to follow. Don’t use 10 words when five will do.

  • entertainment
  • journalism resources
  • latest reports
  • learning resources
  • college & uni life
  • career advice

trending topics

Add Project Key Words

essay ideas persuasive

50 Persuasive Speech Topics for High School Students

September 9, 2024

essay ideas persuasive

Throughout high school, students will be asked to write about topics and make compelling arguments for certain positions. These persuasive speeches and other writing assignments train a student's communication skills. Creating a compelling, persuasive speech is a powerful skill that will help students in all aspects of their careers, not just in writing courses. The ability to write persuasively will especially have a huge effect on your admissions results when writing your personal statements and essays for college. 

With a powerful speech, students can express their opinions, influence others, and develop critical communication skills for school and the workplace. Choosing the right topic for a speech is often as important as how well it's written. To help you find the right topics for your audience, here are 50 persuasive speech topics you can use to help you get started with your writing. 

Want an expert's opinion on your college applications? Book a free strategy call and begin your admissions journey today! 

What Makes a Good Persuasive Speech Topic?

Compelling persuasive speech topics are relatable, debatable, and relevant. Students should investigate a topic they're passionate about and will intrigue an audience. Don't just take an easy position everyone can agree with—audiences are interested in ideas they may have never heard before, expressed enthusiastically by a passionate speaker. 

When ideating a topic, find something with clear, opposing viewpoints. Research the available arguments and present your speech in a way that promotes a meaningful discussion. For example, topics regarding the use of social media, the right to freedom of speech, and the Supreme Court are general and can engage a wide audience. 

Topics that everyone agrees with, have no opposing viewpoints, and require no research will not make for interesting speeches. Choose a topic that will challenge you and your audience, but avoid being offensive or controversial for its own sake. A topic you're genuinely interested in—like renewable energy for engineering students or social media platforms for communications students will make writing a compelling speech much more natural. With additional research and effective writing techniques, you can craft a speech to captivate an audience. 

How to Choose the Right Persuasive Speech Topic for Your Audience

Choosing the right topic starts with knowing your target audience. While ideating, consider:

  • Who are you targeting? 
  • What do you want to convince them? 
  • What counter-arguments may they have? 

Think about those who would agree with you, be on the fence with you, and who would directly oppose your viewpoint. Writing persuasively is not just about presenting facts and hoping others agree. It's about making an emotional connection with your audience and using that impression to shift their thinking. 

Once you've given careful thought to those you'd be presenting to, brainstorm persuasive speech topic ideas that may resonate with them. Make a list of potential ideas and interrogate their merit. Consider current events, personal experiences, and issues others may relate to. Then, narrow down your list to the persuasive topics you would be most interested in—as an audience member and a researcher. 

Once you've landed on a few interesting topics, don't rest on them. Ask for feedback and get insights from family, friends, and teachers. Outside perspectives are important; others may have experiences that could provide you with valuable knowledge to use when refining your topic. 

50 Persuasive Speech Topic Ideas

School topics.

  • The Benefits and Drawbacks of Mandatory School Uniforms
  • How Effective is the School Grading System?
  • How Students can Shape their Curriculum
  • Is Homework Beneficial or Harmful?
  • How Would Schools Handle a Four-Day Week?

Art and Humanities Topics

  • Art or Vandalism: The History of Graffiti
  • Art vs STEM: What Should Schools Prioritize?
  • AI-Generated Media: How Do Humans Value Art?
  • The Correlation Between Art and Mental Health
  • Are Video Games the Ultimate Artform?

Social Issues Topics

  • The Right to Protest: Traditional Movements vs Digital Activism
  • Why do Wealthy Countries have Declining Birth Rates?
  • Should For-Profit Prisons be Permanently Abolished?
  • Is Healthcare a Human Right?

Environmental Issues

  • Why Corporations Need Stricter Plastics Regulation
  • Environmental Ethics: Human Development vs Species Preservation
  • The Benefits and Drawbacks of Fully Electric Vehicles
  • History of Geo-Engineering: Can Society Reverse Climate Change?
  • What is Dark Oxygen? The Effect of Deep Sea Mining

Technology and Media Topics

  • Should the Government Regulate the Coming AI revolution?
  • Where Does Online Misinformation Come From?
  • Why Does Social Media Affect Self-Image?
  • The Right to Privacy: How Online anonymity affects people's behavior
  • Why All Messaging Apps Should Have End-to-End Encryption
  • Should Artificial Intelligence be Used in Creative Works?
  • Should Social Media Platforms be Accountable for their Users?

Politics and Government

  • Should Voting be Compulsory?
  • How Public and Private Funding Affect Political Campaigns
  • What is gerrymandering? 
  • Why Do Some Countries Have Mandatory Military Service?
  • The benefits and drawbacks of term limits for elected officials

Sports Topics

  • Should esports be officially recognized as part of the Olympic Games?
  • MMA and Boxing: The Ethics of Broadcasting Violence
  • Has Football Become More Dangerous?
  • Should Men and Women compete in the same Leagues? 
  • Restrictor Plates: Why Did NASCAR Make Racing Slower?

Economy and Finance

  • Should Cryptocurrency be Regulated?
  • Does a minimum wage help or hurt the economy?
  • Employees vs contractors: How freelance work Affects commerce
  • Is Universal Basic Income a Viable Option?
  • When should the Government regulate the Market?

STEM Topics

  • What are the Benefits of Mars Colonization?
  • City Planning: How US Infrastructure Affects the Environment
  • Why Nuclear Energy is the Cleanest, Safest, and Cheapest Option
  • Why the US Hasn't Returned to the Moon Yet
  • Where will Technological Implants take Human Evolution?

Culture and Entertainment Industry Topics

  • How Binge-Culture Has Affected Our Attention Spans
  • How Streaming Services Caused the 2023 Writers Strike
  • Why are actors paid so highly? Hollywood's income inequality
  • Should IP Copyright be abolished? 

Enhance Your Academic Profile With InGenius Prep

Crafting a persuasive speech isn’t just about presenting facts—it’s about connecting with your audience, understanding their perspectives, and sparking meaningful conversations. These skills are especially important in the college admissions process, where every aspect of your college application is trying to convince an Admissions Officer you're worthy of acceptance. 

For more on college applications, InGenius Prep's counseling services are designed to guide high school students through every step of the admissions process. With a focus on story-telling, candidacy building, and highlighting the most impactful aspect of your student profile, we’ll help you capture the attention of your admissions officers. 

Ready to take the next step? Book a free strategy call with an advisor today to start your admissions journey.

Tags : candidacy-building , Writing , application counseling , English

Schedule a free consultation

to find out how we can help you get accepted.

USC Pre-College - USC Summer & Online Pre-College Courses

  • Program Overview
  • Course Options
  • Admission, Tuition & Fees
  • International Students
  • Residential & Commuter Experience
  • Cybersecurity
  • Digital Marketing
  • Entrepreneurship
  • Environmental Studies
  • Lifespan Development
  • Media & Social Change
  • Political Science
  • Screenwriting

How to Pick a College Essay Topic, According to an Admission Expert

A student in a USC hoodie writes in a notebook outdoors. (USC Photo/Philip Channing)

The personal essay is one of the most crucial parts of a college application. While your transcripts and test scores highlight your achievement, they’re ultimately just stats and figures.

That’s where the college essay comes in: It helps colleges determine who you are. You can let your personality shine through and also show off your biggest wins — and explain away any potential shortcomings.

Of course, not everyone loves to write. And even if you do, it’s not always easy to figure out what to say. After all, most college essay prompts are quite vague. Where do you even start?

We spoke with Dan Phan, the academic program manager for USC Bovard Scholars , to learn how to pick the perfect college essay topic.

What Should a College Essay Focus On?

First things first: You need to determine what your dream school is asking for. Some will ask for just one essay, which is in response to several possible prompts. Usually, these prompts have to do with your background, your ambitions, challenging or formative times in your life or your personal beliefs. Other schools, however, will require you to write a personal statement, in addition to answering several shorter supplementary essay questions.

So, different universities have different application requirements. However, the essay’s goal remains the same, regardless of the prompt or format.

“The main personal statement should be introspective and shed light on the student’s core values, experiences that shaped them and aspirations for the future. Who is this student? Where have they been

Where do they hope to go?” Phan said.

What are Some Examples of College Essay Themes?

Many people use the college essay to reflect on hurdles in their lives. These difficulties could be related to academics or personal struggles. The idea is to show how you handle adversity. Essays can also focus on a personal turning point, to illustrate your personal growth or how you adapt to change.

Other applicants focus on topics related to identity and diversity, diving into their cultural background or family history to explore how their heritage and upbringing have shaped them into who they are today.

Some students write about their passions, hobbies or community involvement, showing what they have to offer besides good grades. It’s also a way to paint a picture of how they could participate in campus culture. After all, the goal is for the university to want you to be there and bring your personal touch to campus!

Phan’s favorite college essay themes?

“I love reading stories about the movers and shakers of the world, young adults that I can envision in the college setting, wherever that may be, and making a big difference once there,” she said.

And while Phan sees plenty of stories about family, culture, personal obstacles and achievements, she’s also read some “beautifully written essays” that she “remembers vividly to this day.”

The topics of these essays were wide-ranging and, often, highly personal.

“Playing music with symbrachydactyly (a hand anomaly characterized by missing fingers),” Phan recalled. “Visiting the neighborhood wig shop after school to chat with cancer patients. Defying gender stereotypes. Living close to the state prison and getting involved in prison-to-school pipeline programs. Car rides listening to NPR. Peach dumplings. Natural hair. Treasure maps.”

So, don’t be afraid to get creative. While your college essay should express who you are, there are many different ways to do so.

How Do You Choose a College Essay Topic?

When faced with vague prompts and open-ended suggestions, it can be hard to think of one story that summarizes who you are. Unfortunately, you can’t write about everything that makes you unique. Instead, narrow it down to a specific thesis.

Phan recommends that students think about the top four things a stranger would need to know to get acquainted with them.

“I encourage students to be vulnerable, to build connections and to think about some of their most formative or meaningful experiences, whether that involves family, identity, culture, extracurricular activities or interests,” Phan said.

Ask yourself what your strengths are. What are the skills and qualities that separate you from others? Then, consider the stories in your life that illustrate these traits.

Maybe you’re proud of your resilience. What’s a time in your life that it was tested? Or perhaps you have a passion for improving your community. What led you to that? What are some times you’ve demonstrated that dedication?

Once you consider what you want the essay to reveal about you, it’s easier to determine what examples in your life illustrate that.

“The most compelling essays are not only well written but have rich details that humanize the student’s experiences,” Phan said.

What Not to Write in Your College Essay

While you have plenty of options for your college essay, there are also some topics you don’t want to write about. For example, Phan advises applicants to avoid writing about grades or academic performance. Your transcript already covers that.

Another common pitfall? Not writing about yourself.

“Sometimes, students make the mistake of bringing in another person like a family member, friend or leader they admire, and the essay ceases to be about the student but rather about how incredible the other person is — which completely misses the point,” Phan explained.

Similarly, keep in mind that you’re writing about yourself now. That means you should be discussing who you are as a prospective college student, not who you were in kindergarten. While stories from your youth may help explain who you’ve become, the focus should always be on personal growth and development.

Some essay topics are so overused that they’ve become clichĂ©d, such as teenage heartbreak, mission trip experiences or winning a sports game, Phan said: “Considering how admissions committees may be reading tens of thousands of applications each application cycle, admissions readers want to read unique college essays with fresh perspectives and angularity.”

Should Someone Proofread Your College Essay?

Applying for college is a process with many steps, and most students ask for help confirming they’ve done each part correctly. The same goes for your college essay!

Once you’ve selected the topic, it’s normal to ask for feedback to ensure you’re on the right track. Your college counselor or a teacher would be the right people to ask.

Similarly, it’s a good idea to ask them for help refining the essay once it’s done. They can help you deliver your thesis in the most compelling way possible. Remember, even the most talented writers need a copy editor to check that their work is free of misspellings and grammatical errors.

However, don’t have too many people read your essay.

“I’ve seen essays become so disjointed because there were too many voices in the essays,” Phan said. “Additionally, working with multiple people can pull students in different directions, resulting in a bit of Frankenstein of an essay and the student’s original voice being completely lost.”

So, trust your gut! With enough preparation, hard work and proofreading, you can write a solid college essay that makes you stand out to potential schools.

Learn more about USC Summer and Online Pre-College Programs today.

Author: Becca van Sambeck

IMAGES

  1. 31 Persuasive Essay Topics ‱ JournalBuddies.com

    essay ideas persuasive

  2. 50 Free Persuasive Essay Examples (+BEST Topics) ᐅ TemplateLab

    essay ideas persuasive

  3. FREE 8+ Persuasive Essay Samples in MS Word

    essay ideas persuasive

  4. School essay: Easy topics for a persuasive essay

    essay ideas persuasive

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

    essay ideas persuasive

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

    essay ideas persuasive

VIDEO

  1. PERSUASIVE ESSAY Part7 Outline

  2. How to write a persuasive essay?

  3. Persuasive Essay

  4. Persuasive Essay

  5. Writing Workshop -Persuasive Essay

  6. Persuasive essay

COMMENTS

  1. 113 Perfect Persuasive Essay Topics for Any Assignment

    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 ...

  2. 100 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.

  3. 120+ Good Persuasive Essay Topics From Easy to Unique

    If you need to prove your point in a persuasive essay, you'll need to start with a great prompt. Check out these ideas for easy, challenging, and unique persuasive prompts in different categories.

  4. Top 257 Good Persuasive Essay Topics [Tips & Prompts]

    434 Good Persuasive Topics for Speech or Essay: My Speech Class. How to Write Persuasive Essays: Matrix Education. 31 Powerful Persuasive Writing Techniques: Writtent. A CS Research Topic Generator or How To pick A Worthy Topic In 10 Seconds: Purdue University. Topic Ideas Generator: Online Research Library Questia.

  5. 50 Persuasive Essay Topics to Help You Ace Your Next Assignment

    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.

  6. 140 Best Persuasive Essay Topics [2024]

    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.

  7. 227 Amazing College Persuasive Essay Topics [Free Ideas]

    College Persuasive Essay Topics: Medicine. Strong pain killers should be sold by prescription only. Drug prices should be set ethically. Herbal medications are the safest. Self-medication is extremely dangerous, even in the case of a simple cold or an allergy. Differentiating various forms of medicines is essential.

  8. 162 Persuasive Writing Prompts & Topics: Examples & Tips

    50 Persuasive Essay Writing Prompts. If you have trouble coming up with ideas for writing a persuasive essay, here is our prompts list. Whether you're in school or college, we're sure here you'll find a topic that interests you! 🧒 Persuasive Writing Prompts for Elementary Students. Your parents should go to bed at 9 pm every day.

  9. Think Outside the Box: 200 Inspiring Persuasive Essay Topics

    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.

  10. 101 Persuasive Essay and Speech Topics

    Persuasive Essay and Speech Topics. Whether you are a student in need of a persuasive essay topic, or a teacher looking to assign a persuasive essay, this list of 101 persuasive essay topics is a great resource. I taxed my brain to create this huge list of persuasive essay topics relevant to today's society, but I believe it was worth the effort.

  11. 112 Persuasive Speech Topics That Are Actually Engaging

    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.

  12. 150+ Interesting Persuasive Essay Topics for Students 2024

    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.

  13. 434 Good Persuasive Topics [Speech & Essay, Updated September 2024 ]

    10 Fun Persuasive Speech Topics. 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. .

  14. 110 Powerful persuasive essay topics

    A persuasive essay uses emotional appeal to convince the reader to agree with the author's position on an issue. The author may also present reasoning based on ethical standards. Think of a persuasive essay like a commercial or an ad. You're trying to convince your audience buy into your opinion.

  15. 120 Persuasive Essay Topics

    10 Best Persuasive Essay Topics. Including the most interesting, thought-provoking and unique topics, this section contains the ten best persuasive essay topics out there. All problems facing humanity could be fixed with better technology. Embalming is a dangerous practice. Euthanasia should be illegal.

  16. 300 Persuasive Essay Topics

    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.

  17. 115 Highly Persuasive Essay Topics

    110+ Irresistible Persuasive Essay Topics And Titles. Persuasive essays are the type of essays that aim to influence the thoughts and ideas of the readers with the help of supporting evidence. The most crucial part of a convincing essay is the topic or the thesis statement, because it provides a direction to the entire essay.

  18. 130 Interesting Persuasive Essay Topics for Kids and Teens

    130 Interesting Persuasive Essay Topics for Kids and Teens. Use your words to sway the reader. By Jill Staake, B.S., Secondary ELA Education. Sep 26, 2023. Persuasive writing is one of those skills that can help students succeed in real life. Learn the basics of this valuable skill, then use our big roundup of persuasive essay topics for practice.

  19. High Quality Persuasive Essay Topics (Updated for 2021)

    Interesting Persuasive Essay Topics. Interesting persuasive essay topics are unique, rather than subjects your teachers or professors have heard about a million times before. Consider the following as unique persuasive essay topics. Carriage horses should be banned in New York City. Religious institutions should be able to be taxed in the ...

  20. 63 Excellent Persuasive Essay Topics » JournalBuddies.com

    63 Persuasive Essay Topics. Teens should learn etiquette at school. All teens should have the opportunity to study in a different country. Parents of a kid who bullies someone else should pay a fine. School days should start after noon. Teens should have the opportunity to determine their own curfew and bedtime.

  21. 75 Persuasive Essay Topic Ideas

    A persuasive essay, if you're unfamiliar, is one in which you have to make an argument. You need to choose a side and prove why you're correct by using hard evidence and convincing language. The idea is that you want to convince the reader that your argument is the right one, so you'll definitely want to pick a topic that you're passionate ...

  22. Persuasive Essay Topics (31 Ideas!)

    Persuasive Essay Topics (31 Ideas!) 31 Persuasive Essay Topics — The persuasive essay is a difficult form to master, as it should be both convincing and emotionally resonant without straying over into the realm of false arguments and red herrings. For that reason, middle school is a wonderful time to introduce this writing form to students ...

  23. 187 Impressive Higher English Persuasive Essay Topics [2024]

    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.

  24. 6 tips for writing an opinion essay that will sway even the worst

    Whether you are arguing for or against a hot-button issue, these six tips can help you craft a strong and persuasive piece. With practice, you can effectively advocate for your viewpoint on any issue.

  25. 50 Persuasive Speech Topics for High School Students

    Compelling persuasive speech topics are relatable, debatable, and relevant. Students should investigate a topic they're passionate about and will intrigue an audience. Don't just take an easy position everyone can agree with—audiences are interested in ideas they may have never heard before, expressed enthusiastically by a passionate speaker.

  26. Write a Winning College Essay: How to Pick a Topic

    Some essay topics are so overused that they've become clichéd, such as teenage heartbreak, mission trip experiences or winning a sports game, Phan said: "Considering how admissions committees may be reading tens of thousands of applications each application cycle, admissions readers want to read unique college essays with fresh ...