How to Write a Position Paper

A position paper is a powerful tool in academic, professional and policy making, to express a clear view on a topic. It states and supports the author’s view on a specific issue, with well researched evidence to convey the author’s opinion. Writing a good position paper requires planning, research and a structured approach to presenting your arguments. You must take a clear view on a topic, and your view must be backed by credible evidence. This will guide you through the basics of writing a position paper, from understanding your audience to structuring your arguments.

Audience and Topic

Understanding your audience and choosing a topic is the first step in writing a position paper. Your audience will determine how you frame your arguments, the level of language you use and the type of evidence you present. For example a paper for policymakers will use formal language and cite government reports, while one for a general audience will use simpler language and popular examples. Research will help you understand your audience and gather information to tailor your arguments.
Choosing a topic is equally important. A good topic for a position paper is one that has multiple opposing views, so you can have a balanced and persuasive discussion. Avoid topics that are too broad or universally agreed upon, they may not interest your readers. Instead focus on specific issues with clear controversy, like “Should social media platforms regulate misinformation?” or “Is universal basic income a solution to income inequality?” Choosing the right topic will make your position paper relevant, engaging and thought provoking. Also collect supporting evidence to strengthen your arguments by including quotes from experts and thorough research from credible sources.

What is a Position Paper

A position paper is a formal essay that presents a well argued view on a contested issue, clearly stating the author’s view. The purpose of a position paper is to persuade the audience to accept a particular view or to look at the issue from a certain perspective. Creating a position paper outline is essential to organize your thoughts and make sure you include all the necessary elements.
Position papers are used in various contexts, academic assignments, professional conferences or policy discussions. In academic context, they test a student’s ability to build logical arguments and support them with evidence. In professional or policy making context, position papers are used to advocate for a particular course of action, to provide decision makers with the reasoning behind a proposed solution. Whatever the context, a good position paper is one that presents a good argument backed by credible evidence.

Position Paper Structure and Thesis Statement

A good position paper is important to convey your argument. The typical structure has three main parts: introduction, body paragraphs and conclusion.
The introduction sets the scene for your paper by presenting the topic and your view on it. It should grab the reader’s attention with a hook – a question, statistic or anecdote – before providing background information on the issue. The introduction ends with a clear thesis statement that states your view and briefly outlines the arguments you will present.
The body paragraphs are the meat of your position paper where you present your arguments and evidence. These critical sections support the thesis statement by balancing supporting arguments and counterarguments, using facts to reinforce your view. Each paragraph should focus on one point, starting with a topic sentence that introduces the argument. Then evidence, data, expert opinions or case studies and how this evidence supports your view. Don’t forget to address counterarguments in the body of your paper, it shows you can consider opposing views and strengthen your overall argument.
The conclusion summarizes your main points and reiterates your view, leaves the reader with a strong impression of your position. Don’t introduce new arguments or evidence in the conclusion, instead focus on highlighting the importance of your view and if applicable, call for action or further discussion. The final section should restate the position and summarize the argument, reiterate the thesis statement by summarizing the points discussed in the body paragraphs.

Position Paper Template

Using a template can be a good starting point to organize your thoughts and make sure you include all the necessary elements in your position paper. A typical position paper template looks like this:

Introduction

• Hook: Grab the reader with a question, statistic or anecdote.
• Background: Provide background information on the issue.
• Thesis Statement: State your view.
• First Paragraph: The first paragraph sets the scene for the reader by providing an opening and background information which is crucial to present the author’s view on the topic.

Body Paragraphs

• Argument 1: Present your first point and evidence.
• Argument 2: Present your second point and data/example.
• Counterarguments: Address and knock down opposing views.

Conclusion

• Summary: Summarise your points.
• Restate Thesis: Reiterate your view.
• Final Thought: Leave the reader with a thought or call to action.

This template gives you a structure to follow while allowing you to adapt to the specific requirements of your assignment or audience. Make sure to follow the format to ensure your position paper meets the requirements and impress the Chair.

Position Paper vs Argumentative Essay

A position paper and an argumentative essay have similarities but serve different purposes and have different characteristics. A position paper is focused on a specific view and aims to get the reader to consider or adopt that view. It’s often used in situations where the writer is advocating for policy changes or organizational decisions.

An argumentative essay on the other hand presents a broader discussion of the topic, explores multiple views before arguing for a conclusion. Argumentative essays emphasize critical thinking and balanced analysis while position papers are more direct in their advocacy.

Knowing these differences will help you adjust your writing to the requirements and expectations of your assignment or audience.

Research and Gather Evidence

Research is the foundation of a good position paper. Gathering credible evidence not only supports your points but also makes you a more credible writer. Start by finding reliable sources, peer reviewed journals, books and reputable news outlets. Avoid using biased or non-academic sources as they will weaken your argument. Get to the point quickly to keep the reader interested and clear.

When gathering evidence focus on finding information that supports your thesis. This could be statistics, case studies, expert opinions or historical examples. Also research opposing views as addressing counterarguments will strengthen your view and show you can think critically about the topic.

Organise your research by categorising evidence according to your main points. This will make it easier to include in your paper and have a logical flow of ideas.

Counterarguments

Anticipating counterarguments is a key part of writing a position paper. It means considering the opposing views and perspectives on the topic and addressing them in your paper. This will strengthen your argument and show you have done your research.

To anticipate counterarguments start by identifying the opposing views on the topic. Consider the views of other countries, organisations or individuals who may have a different view on the issue. Research their arguments and evidence and think about how you can address their concerns in your paper.

When addressing counterarguments be respectful and professional. Don’t be confrontational or dismissive of opposing views as this will undermine your credibility and weaken your argument. Instead focus on presenting a clear and well supported argument that takes into account other perspectives.

In your position paper you can address counterarguments in a separate section or include them in your body paragraphs. Make sure to acknowledge the opposing views and provide evidence for your point. This will show you have done your research and are prepared to defend your view.

By anticipating counterarguments you will strengthen your position paper and show you can think critically and analytically. This is a key skill for anyone writing a position paper whether it’s for academic, professional or personal purposes.

When anticipating counterarguments consider:

• Identify opposing views on the topic
• Research opposing arguments and evidence
• Be respectful and professional
• Provide evidence
• Include in body paragraphs or separate section
• Show you can think critically and analytically

By doing this you will write a good position paper that takes into account other perspectives and shows you can think critically and analytically.

How to Write a Position Paper

Writing a position paper involves several steps each of which will contribute to the clarity and strength of your argument.

First choose a topic that is relevant and debatable. Make sure the topic has multiple sides and is of interest or concern to your audience.

Next research thoroughly to gather evidence for your point of view. This means reading academic articles, analysing data and considering opposing views. Take notes and organise your findings so it’s easier to write.

Write a thesis statement that states your view on the issue. Your thesis should be specific, brief and supported by the evidence you have.

Create an outline to structure your position paper. Include sections for introduction, body paragraphs and conclusion and outline the main points you will cover in each.

Write your first draft starting with the introduction. Make sure to include a hook, background and thesis statement. In the body paragraphs present your arguments and evidence and address counterarguments where necessary. Conclude with a summary of your main points and a restatement of your thesis.

Finally revise and edit for clarity, coherence and correctness. Check for logical flow, remove redundancy and make sure your arguments are evidence based.

By doing this you will write a position paper that conveys your view, engages your audience and shows you can think critically. Whether for academic, professional or policy making purposes a good position paper is a powerful tool for advocating your position. A good position paper can also help you win ‘Best Delegate’ although actions within the committee play a big part.