essay outline rhetorical

Rhetorical Analysis Essay

Rhetorical Analysis Essay Outline

Crafting an Effective Rhetorical Analysis Essay Outline - Free Samples!

10 min read

What Is Rhetorical Analysis Essay?

A rhetorical analysis essay is a type of analytical essay that examines how an author uses language and persuasion to get their message across.

It involves analyzing speeches or essays to understand how authors use strategies within the rhetorical triangle to influence their intended audience. These techniques usually involve logical appeal, moral argument, and vivid imagery that appeals to the listener.

Key Elements to Analyze

In a rhetorical analysis essay, you would be analyzing the text keeping these key rhetorical concepts in mind:

Ethos: This concerns the credibility of the author or speaker.
Logos: This focuses on the logical aspects of the argument.
Pathos: Pathos explores the emotional appeal of the discourse.
Style and Tone: This involves analyzing the author's writing style and the overall tone of the text.

These elements provide a structured approach to rhetorical analysis, revealing how effective communication is achieved.

Why Create a Rhetorical Analysis Essay Outline?

Writing a rhetorical analysis essay requires a writer to draft a structured piece of writing. This essay type is one of the most challenging tasks students are assigned to do for their academics.

Apart from conducting a strong analysis, a rhetorical analysis essay depends on how perfectly the essay outline is drafted.

An outline organizes the raw information and makes it understandable for the readers. It serves as your compass, ensuring you stay on course throughout the rhetoric essay. It helps you structure your ideas and arguments, adding clarity to your essay writing process.

Moreover, an outline works as a checklist for your essay. It assures you that nothing important is missed in the content.

Components of a Rhetorical Analysis Outline

Now that we've explored why creating an essay outline is essential, it's important to explore the different components of a rhetorical analysis outline.

Here’s a detailed rhetorical analysis essay outline:

Each element plays a crucial role in crafting a well-structured and persuasive analysis, so let's explore them in detail:

Introduction

The introduction of your rhetorical analysis essay serves as the gateway to your analysis. It's where you captivate your reader's interest, provide essential background information, and present your thesis statement.

Here are the elements typically included in an introduction paragraph:

Hook The " hook " is a sentence or two designed to grab the reader's attention. It could be a thought-provoking quote, a surprising fact, or a compelling question. The purpose is to make your reader interested in what you're about to discuss—how an author uses rhetorical devices.
Background Information After the hook, provide some context. Here, you briefly introduce the text you're analyzing, the author or speaker, and the overall topic. It's like giving your reader a map to navigate through your analysis.
Thesis Statement The thesis statement is the main argument, your "claim." This concise sentence outlines what you'll be analyzing and what your main points will be. Your thesis should tell the reader what to expect in your analysis.

The body of your essay is where you dissect the author's persuasive techniques and reveal their impact on the audience. It contains sections dedicated to each rhetorical strategy you're examining.

In these sections, you'll explain the strategies, provide evidence from the text, and offer your insightful analysis of their effectiveness.

Section for Each Rhetorical Strategy

In the body paragraphs, you'll have sections dedicated to each rhetorical strategy you're analyzing. These sections each will focus on a different aspect of the text. For each strategy, you'll do three things:

Explanation of the Strategy Start by explaining what the rhetorical technique is. Define it clearly for your reader. This is like providing a dictionary definition.
Examples from the Text Next, provide examples from the text you're analyzing. These are specific quotes or passages where the author or speaker uses the strategy you're discussing. It's like showing your reader the evidence.
Analysis of the Effectiveness Finally, analyze how effective the strategy is. This is where you dive deep into the text and explain how and why the strategy persuades the audience.

The conclusion should leave your readers with a sense of closure and a clear understanding of your analysis.

You don't introduce new information or arguments in this section; instead, you tie everything together. Here are the three essential elements of an impactful essay conclusion:

Restate Thesis Start by restating your thesis to remind readers of your main argument. Repeating your main argument clearly helps the reader tie in all they have read in your essay.
Summarize Main Points Summarize the main points from each section of your analysis. This serves as a reminder of the highlights of your arguments made throughout the essay.
Final Thoughts Conclude by sharing your thoughts on how the author's strategies affect the audience and the text's broader importance. Encourage readers to consider these strategies' impact and the text's relevance.

This structure in your rhetorical analysis outline ensures that your analysis is clear, well-organized, and persuasive. Each component plays a crucial role in guiding your reader through your analysis.

Steps to Create a Rhetorical Analysis Essay Outline

Creating an essay outline is a crucial step in organizing your thoughts and effectively analyzing a piece of rhetoric. Here are the steps to craft an outline for a rhetorical analysis essay:

Step 1 - Choose the Text

Select the piece of rhetoric that you will be analyzing. It could be a speech, a written essay, an advertisement, a political campaign, or any other form of communication.

Step 2 - Identify Rhetorical Devices and Rhetorical Appeals

Look for rhetorical devices such as metaphor, simile, analogy, hyperbole, and alliteration. Analyze how these devices contribute to the message. Identify any repetition, parallelism, or rhetorical questions used in the text.

Moreover, look for common rhetorical appeals i,e., ethos, pathos, and logos.

Step 3 - Analyze Appeals and Strategies in Each Section

For each argument, dedicate a body paragraph that will analyze how the author/speaker uses ethos, pathos, and logos.

Note the specific rhetorical devices used in each section and their impact.

Step 4 - Consider the Effect on the Audience

While outlining the last body paragraph, add points that analyze how the appeals are intended to affect the audience.

Consider whether the author/speaker is trying to persuade, inform, entertain, or provoke a specific emotional response. Include specific examples and quotations from the text to support your analysis.

Step 5 - Filter Out Extra Information

It's important to know what parts of the arguments should be included and which should be filtered out.

After having a sketch of the introduction and body paragraphs, remove any information that might feel irrelevant.

Step 6 - Conclude and Summarize

For the ending, make sure to restate your thesis statement. Include points that directly support your arguments and sum up your analysis.

These steps help you plan your essay for a well-structured, clear, and cohesive essay.

Here's a sample rhetorical analysis essay outline template that analyzes ethos, pathos and logos :

Here’s a practice outline:

Rhetorical Analysis Essay Outline Fill In The Blanks

Rhetorical Analysis Essay Outline Examples

Here are some rhetorical analysis essay outline pdf that you can use as reference outlines:

Rhetorical Analysis Essay Outline Ethos Pathos Logos

Rhetorical Analysis Essay Outline Ap Lang

Visual Rhetorical Analysis Essay Outline

Comparative Rhetorical Analysis Essay Outline

Rhetorical Analysis Essay Introduction Outline

Need more help getting started? Check out these expert rhetorical analysis essay examples to get inspired!

In conclusion, you've got the tools and examples you need to ace your rhetorical analysis essay. The steps we've gone through provide a strong starting point for your academic journey into analyzing persuasive writing.

But if you ever hit a wall or need help with tight deadlines, don't forget our experts are here to lend a helping hand. Our essay writing service for college has helped lots of students like you get top-notch essays.

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Nova Allison is a Digital Content Strategist with over eight years of experience. Nova has also worked as a technical and scientific writer. She is majorly involved in developing and reviewing online content plans that engage and resonate with audiences. Nova has a passion for writing that engages and informs her readers.

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How to Write a Rhetorical Analysis Essay–Examples & Template

What is a Rhetorical Analysis Essay?

A rhetorical analysis essay is, as the name suggests, an analysis of someone else’s writing (or speech, or advert, or even cartoon) and how they use not only words but also rhetorical techniques to influence their audience in a certain way. A rhetorical analysis is less interested in what the author is saying and more in how they present it, what effect this has on their readers, whether they achieve their goals, and what approach they use to get there.

Its structure is similar to that of most essays: An Introduction presents your thesis, a Body analyzes the text you have chosen, breaks it down into sections and explains how arguments have been constructed and how each part persuades, informs, or entertains the reader, and a Conclusion section sums up your evaluation.

Note that your personal opinion on the matter is not relevant for your analysis and that you don’t state anywhere in your essay whether you agree or disagree with the stance the author takes.

In the following, we will define the key rhetorical concepts you need to write a good rhetorical analysis and give you some practical tips on where to start.

Key Rhetorical Concepts

Your goal when writing a rhetorical analysis is to think about and then carefully describe how the author has designed their text so that it has the intended effect on their audience. To do that, you need to consider a number of key rhetorical strategies: Rhetorical appeals (“Ethos”, “Logos”, and “Pathos”), context, as well as claims, supports, and warrants.

Ethos, Logos, and Pathos were introduced by Aristotle, way back in the 4th century BC, as the main ways in which language can be used to persuade an audience. They still represent the basis of any rhetorical analysis and are often referred to as the “rhetorical triangle”.

These and other rhetorical techniques can all be combined to create the intended effect, and your job as the one analyzing a text is to break the writer’s arguments down and identify the concepts they are based on.

Rhetorical Appeals

Rhetorical appeal #1: ethos.

Ethos refers to the reputation or authority of the writer regarding the topic of their essay or speech and to how they use this to appeal to their audience. Just like we are more likely to buy a product from a brand or vendor we have confidence in than one we don’t know or have reason to distrust, Ethos-driven texts or speeches rely on the reputation of the author to persuade the reader or listener. When you analyze an essay, you should therefore look at how the writer establishes Ethos through rhetorical devices.

Does the author present themselves as an authority on their subject? If so, how?

Do they highlight how impeccable their own behavior is to make a moral argument?

Do they present themselves as an expert by listing their qualifications or experience to convince the reader of their opinion on something?

Rhetorical appeal #2: Pathos

The purpose of Pathos-driven rhetoric is to appeal to the reader’s emotions. A common example of pathos as a rhetorical means is adverts by charities that try to make you donate money to a “good cause”. To evoke the intended emotions in the reader, an author may use passionate language, tell personal stories, and employ vivid imagery so that the reader can imagine themselves in a certain situation and feel empathy with or anger towards others.

Rhetorical appeal #3: Logos

Logos, the “logical” appeal, uses reason to persuade. Reason and logic, supported by data, evidence, clearly defined methodology, and well-constructed arguments, are what most academic writing is based on. Emotions, those of the researcher/writer as well as those of the reader, should stay out of such academic texts, as should anyone’s reputation, beliefs, or personal opinions.

Text and Context

To analyze a piece of writing, a speech, an advertisement, or even a satirical drawing, you need to look beyond the piece of communication and take the context in which it was created and/or published into account.

Who is the person who wrote the text/drew the cartoon/designed the ad..? What audience are they trying to reach? Where was the piece published and what was happening there around that time?

A political speech, for example, can be powerful even when read decades later, but the historical context surrounding it is an important aspect of the effect it was intended to have.

Claims, Supports, and Warrants

To make any kind of argument, a writer needs to put forward specific claims, support them with data or evidence or even a moral or emotional appeal, and connect the dots logically so that the reader can follow along and agree with the points made.

The connections between statements, so-called “warrants”, follow logical reasoning but are not always clearly stated—the author simply assumes the reader understands the underlying logic, whether they present it “explicitly” or “implicitly”. Implicit warrants are commonly used in advertisements where seemingly happy people use certain products, wear certain clothes, accessories, or perfumes, or live certain lifestyles – with the connotation that, first, the product/perfume/lifestyle is what makes that person happy and, second, the reader wants to be as happy as the person in the ad. Some warrants are never clearly stated, and your job when writing a rhetorical analysis essay is therefore to identify them and bring them to light, to evaluate their validity, their effect on the reader, and the use of such means by the writer/creator.

bust of plato the philosopher, rhetorical analysis essay

What are the Five Rhetorical Situations?

A “rhetorical situation” refers to the circumstance behind a text or other piece of communication that arises from a given context. It explains why a rhetorical piece was created, what its purpose is, and how it was constructed to achieve its aims.

Rhetorical situations can be classified into the following five categories:

Asking such questions when you analyze a text will help you identify all the aspects that play a role in the effect it has on its audience, and will allow you to evaluate whether it achieved its aims or where it may have failed to do so.

Rhetorical Analysis Essay Outline

Analyzing someone else’s work can seem like a big task, but as with every assignment or writing endeavor, you can break it down into smaller, well-defined steps that give you a practical structure to follow.

To give you an example of how the different parts of your text may look when it’s finished, we will provide you with some excerpts from this rhetorical analysis essay example (which even includes helpful comments) published on the Online Writing Lab website of Excelsior University in Albany, NY. The text that this essay analyzes is this article on why one should or shouldn’t buy an Ipad. If you want more examples so that you can build your own rhetorical analysis template, have a look at this essay on Nabokov’s Lolita and the one provided here about the “Shitty First Drafts” chapter of Anne Lamott’s writing instruction book “Bird by Bird”.

Analyzing the Text

When writing a rhetorical analysis, you don’t choose the concepts or key points you think are relevant or want to address. Rather, you carefully read the text several times asking yourself questions like those listed in the last section on rhetorical situations to identify how the text “works” and how it was written to achieve that effect.

Start with focusing on the author : What do you think was their purpose for writing the text? Do they make one principal claim and then elaborate on that? Or do they discuss different topics?

Then look at what audience they are talking to: Do they want to make a group of people take some action? Vote for someone? Donate money to a good cause? Who are these people? Is the text reaching this specific audience? Why or why not?

What tone is the author using to address their audience? Are they trying to evoke sympathy? Stir up anger? Are they writing from a personal perspective? Are they painting themselves as an authority on the topic? Are they using academic or informal language?

How does the author support their claims ? What kind of evidence are they presenting? Are they providing explicit or implicit warrants? Are these warrants valid or problematic? Is the provided evidence convincing?

Asking yourself such questions will help you identify what rhetorical devices a text uses and how well they are put together to achieve a certain aim. Remember, your own opinion and whether you agree with the author are not the point of a rhetorical analysis essay – your task is simply to take the text apart and evaluate it.

If you are still confused about how to write a rhetorical analysis essay, just follow the steps outlined below to write the different parts of your rhetorical analysis: As every other essay, it consists of an Introduction , a Body (the actual analysis), and a Conclusion .

Rhetorical Analysis Introduction

The Introduction section briefly presents the topic of the essay you are analyzing, the author, their main claims, a short summary of the work by you, and your thesis statement .

Tell the reader what the text you are going to analyze represents (e.g., historically) or why it is relevant (e.g., because it has become some kind of reference for how something is done). Describe what the author claims, asserts, or implies and what techniques they use to make their argument and persuade their audience. Finish off with your thesis statement that prepares the reader for what you are going to present in the next section – do you think that the author’s assumptions/claims/arguments were presented in a logical/appealing/powerful way and reached their audience as intended?

Have a look at an excerpt from the sample essay linked above to see what a rhetorical analysis introduction can look like. See how it introduces the author and article , the context in which it originally appeared , the main claims the author makes , and how this first paragraph ends in a clear thesis statement that the essay will then elaborate on in the following Body section:

Cory Doctorow ’s article on BoingBoing is an older review of the iPad , one of Apple’s most famous products. At the time of this article, however, the iPad was simply the latest Apple product to hit the market and was not yet so popular. Doctorow’s entire career has been entrenched in and around technology. He got his start as a CD-ROM programmer and is now a successful blogger and author. He is currently the co-editor of the BoingBoing blog on which this article was posted. One of his main points in this article comes from Doctorow’s passionate advocacy of free digital media sharing. He argues that the iPad is just another way for established technology companies to control our technological freedom and creativity . In “ Why I Won’t Buy an iPad (and Think You Shouldn’t, Either) ” published on Boing Boing in April of 2010, Cory Doctorow successfully uses his experience with technology, facts about the company Apple, and appeals to consumer needs to convince potential iPad buyers that Apple and its products, specifically the iPad, limit the digital rights of those who use them by controlling and mainstreaming the content that can be used and created on the device .

Doing the Rhetorical Analysis

The main part of your analysis is the Body , where you dissect the text in detail. Explain what methods the author uses to inform, entertain, and/or persuade the audience. Use Aristotle’s rhetorical triangle and the other key concepts we introduced above. Use quotations from the essay to demonstrate what you mean. Work out why the writer used a certain approach and evaluate (and again, demonstrate using the text itself) how successful they were. Evaluate the effect of each rhetorical technique you identify on the audience and judge whether the effect is in line with the author’s intentions.

To make it easy for the reader to follow your thought process, divide this part of your essay into paragraphs that each focus on one strategy or one concept , and make sure they are all necessary and contribute to the development of your argument(s).

One paragraph of this section of your essay could, for example, look like this:

One example of Doctorow’s position is his comparison of Apple’s iStore to Wal-Mart. This is an appeal to the consumer’s logic—or an appeal to logos. Doctorow wants the reader to take his comparison and consider how an all-powerful corporation like the iStore will affect them. An iPad will only allow for apps and programs purchased through the iStore to be run on it; therefore, a customer must not only purchase an iPad but also any programs he or she wishes to use. Customers cannot create their own programs or modify the hardware in any way.

As you can see, the author of this sample essay identifies and then explains to the reader how Doctorow uses the concept of Logos to appeal to his readers – not just by pointing out that he does it but by dissecting how it is done.

Rhetorical Analysis Conclusion

The conclusion section of your analysis should restate your main arguments and emphasize once more whether you think the author achieved their goal. Note that this is not the place to introduce new information—only rely on the points you have discussed in the body of your essay. End with a statement that sums up the impact the text has on its audience and maybe society as a whole:

Overall, Doctorow makes a good argument about why there are potentially many better things to drop a great deal of money on instead of the iPad. He gives some valuable information and facts that consumers should take into consideration before going out to purchase the new device. He clearly uses rhetorical tools to help make his case, and, overall, he is effective as a writer, even if, ultimately, he was ineffective in convincing the world not to buy an iPad .

Frequently Asked Questions about Rhetorical Analysis Essays

What is a rhetorical analysis essay.

A rhetorical analysis dissects a text or another piece of communication to work out and explain how it impacts its audience, how successfully it achieves its aims, and what rhetorical devices it uses to do that.

While argumentative essays usually take a stance on a certain topic and argue for it, a rhetorical analysis identifies how someone else constructs their arguments and supports their claims.

What is the correct rhetorical analysis essay format?

Like most other essays, a rhetorical analysis contains an Introduction that presents the thesis statement, a Body that analyzes the piece of communication, explains how arguments have been constructed, and illustrates how each part persuades, informs, or entertains the reader, and a Conclusion section that summarizes the results of the analysis.

What is the “rhetorical triangle”?

The rhetorical triangle was introduced by Aristotle as the main ways in which language can be used to persuade an audience: Logos appeals to the audience’s reason, Ethos to the writer’s status or authority, and Pathos to the reader’s emotions. Logos, Ethos, and Pathos can all be combined to create the intended effect, and your job as the one analyzing a text is to break the writer’s arguments down and identify what specific concepts each is based on.

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What Is a Rhetorical Analysis and How to Write a Great One

Helly Douglas

Do you have to write a rhetorical analysis essay? Fear not! We’re here to explain exactly what rhetorical analysis means, how you should structure your essay, and give you some essential “dos and don’ts.”

What is a Rhetorical Analysis Essay?

How do you write a rhetorical analysis, what are the three rhetorical strategies, what are the five rhetorical situations, how to plan a rhetorical analysis essay, creating a rhetorical analysis essay, examples of great rhetorical analysis essays, final thoughts.

A rhetorical analysis essay studies how writers and speakers have used words to influence their audience. Think less about the words the author has used and more about the techniques they employ, their goals, and the effect this has on the audience.

In your analysis essay, you break a piece of text (including cartoons, adverts, and speeches) into sections and explain how each part works to persuade, inform, or entertain. You’ll explore the effectiveness of the techniques used, how the argument has been constructed, and give examples from the text.

A strong rhetorical analysis evaluates a text rather than just describes the techniques used. You don’t include whether you personally agree or disagree with the argument.

Structure a rhetorical analysis in the same way as most other types of academic essays . You’ll have an introduction to present your thesis, a main body where you analyze the text, which then leads to a conclusion.

Think about how the writer (also known as a rhetor) considers the situation that frames their communication:

Topic: the overall purpose of the rhetoric
Audience: this includes primary, secondary, and tertiary audiences
Purpose: there are often more than one to consider
Context and culture: the wider situation within which the rhetoric is placed

Back in the 4th century BC, Aristotle was talking about how language can be used as a means of persuasion. He described three principal forms —Ethos, Logos, and Pathos—often referred to as the Rhetorical Triangle . These persuasive techniques are still used today.

Rhetorical Strategy 1: Ethos

Are you more likely to buy a car from an established company that’s been an important part of your community for 50 years, or someone new who just started their business?

Reputation matters. Ethos explores how the character, disposition, and fundamental values of the author create appeal, along with their expertise and knowledge in the subject area.

Aristotle breaks ethos down into three further categories:

Phronesis: skills and practical wisdom
Arete: virtue
Eunoia: goodwill towards the audience

Ethos-driven speeches and text rely on the reputation of the author. In your analysis, you can look at how the writer establishes ethos through both direct and indirect means.

Rhetorical Strategy 2: Pathos

Pathos-driven rhetoric hooks into our emotions. You’ll often see it used in advertisements, particularly by charities wanting you to donate money towards an appeal.

Common use of pathos includes:

Vivid description so the reader can imagine themselves in the situation
Personal stories to create feelings of empathy
Emotional vocabulary that evokes a response

By using pathos to make the audience feel a particular emotion, the author can persuade them that the argument they’re making is compelling.

Rhetorical Strategy 3: Logos

Logos uses logic or reason. It’s commonly used in academic writing when arguments are created using evidence and reasoning rather than an emotional response. It’s constructed in a step-by-step approach that builds methodically to create a powerful effect upon the reader.

Rhetoric can use any one of these three techniques, but effective arguments often appeal to all three elements.

The rhetorical situation explains the circumstances behind and around a piece of rhetoric. It helps you think about why a text exists, its purpose, and how it’s carried out.

The rhetorical situations are:

1) Purpose: Why is this being written? (It could be trying to inform, persuade, instruct, or entertain.)
2) Audience: Which groups or individuals will read and take action (or have done so in the past)?
3) Genre: What type of writing is this?
4) Stance: What is the tone of the text? What position are they taking?
5) Media/Visuals: What means of communication are used?

Understanding and analyzing the rhetorical situation is essential for building a strong essay. Also think about any rhetoric restraints on the text, such as beliefs, attitudes, and traditions that could affect the author's decisions.

Before leaping into your essay, it’s worth taking time to explore the text at a deeper level and considering the rhetorical situations we looked at before. Throw away your assumptions and use these simple questions to help you unpick how and why the text is having an effect on the audience.

Image showing what to consider when planning a rhetorical essay

1: What is the Rhetorical Situation?

Why is there a need or opportunity for persuasion?
How do words and references help you identify the time and location?
What are the rhetoric restraints?
What historical occasions would lead to this text being created?

2: Who is the Author?

How do they position themselves as an expert worth listening to?
What is their ethos?
Do they have a reputation that gives them authority?
What is their intention?
What values or customs do they have?

3: Who is it Written For?

Who is the intended audience?
How is this appealing to this particular audience?
Who are the possible secondary and tertiary audiences?

4: What is the Central Idea?

Can you summarize the key point of this rhetoric?
What arguments are used?
How has it developed a line of reasoning?

5: How is it Structured?

What structure is used?
How is the content arranged within the structure?

6: What Form is Used?

Does this follow a specific literary genre?
What type of style and tone is used, and why is this?
Does the form used complement the content?
What effect could this form have on the audience?

7: Is the Rhetoric Effective?

Does the content fulfil the author’s intentions?
Does the message effectively fit the audience, location, and time period?

Once you’ve fully explored the text, you’ll have a better understanding of the impact it’s having on the audience and feel more confident about writing your essay outline.

A great essay starts with an interesting topic. Choose carefully so you’re personally invested in the subject and familiar with it rather than just following trending topics. There are lots of great ideas on this blog post by My Perfect Words if you need some inspiration. Take some time to do background research to ensure your topic offers good analysis opportunities.

Image showing considerations for a rhetorical analysis topic

Remember to check the information given to you by your professor so you follow their preferred style guidelines. This outline example gives you a general idea of a format to follow, but there will likely be specific requests about layout and content in your course handbook. It’s always worth asking your institution if you’re unsure.

Make notes for each section of your essay before you write. This makes it easy for you to write a well-structured text that flows naturally to a conclusion. You will develop each note into a paragraph. Look at this example by College Essay for useful ideas about the structure.

1: Introduction

This is a short, informative section that shows you understand the purpose of the text. It tempts the reader to find out more by mentioning what will come in the main body of your essay.

Name the author of the text and the title of their work followed by the date in parentheses
Use a verb to describe what the author does, e.g. “implies,” “asserts,” or “claims”
Briefly summarize the text in your own words
Mention the persuasive techniques used by the rhetor and its effect

Create a thesis statement to come at the end of your introduction.

After your introduction, move on to your critical analysis. This is the principal part of your essay.

Explain the methods used by the author to inform, entertain, and/or persuade the audience using Aristotle's rhetorical triangle
Use quotations to prove the statements you make
Explain why the writer used this approach and how successful it is
Consider how it makes the audience feel and react

Make each strategy a new paragraph rather than cramming them together, and always use proper citations. Check back to your course handbook if you’re unsure which citation style is preferred.

3: Conclusion

Your conclusion should summarize the points you’ve made in the main body of your essay. While you will draw the points together, this is not the place to introduce new information you’ve not previously mentioned.

Use your last sentence to share a powerful concluding statement that talks about the impact the text has on the audience(s) and wider society. How have its strategies helped to shape history?

Before You Submit

Poor spelling and grammatical errors ruin a great essay. Use ProWritingAid to check through your finished essay before you submit. It will pick up all the minor errors you’ve missed and help you give your essay a final polish. Look at this useful ProWritingAid webinar for further ideas to help you significantly improve your essays. Sign up for a free trial today and start editing your essays!

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You’ll find countless examples of rhetorical analysis online, but they range widely in quality. Your institution may have example essays they can share with you to show you exactly what they’re looking for.

The following links should give you a good starting point if you’re looking for ideas:

Pearson Canada has a range of good examples. Look at how embedded quotations are used to prove the points being made. The end questions help you unpick how successful each essay is.

Excelsior College has an excellent sample essay complete with useful comments highlighting the techniques used.

Brighton Online has a selection of interesting essays to look at. In this specific example, consider how wider reading has deepened the exploration of the text.

Image showing tips when reading a sample essay

Writing a rhetorical analysis essay can seem daunting, but spending significant time deeply analyzing the text before you write will make it far more achievable and result in a better-quality essay overall.

It can take some time to write a good essay. Aim to complete it well before the deadline so you don’t feel rushed. Use ProWritingAid’s comprehensive checks to find any errors and make changes to improve readability. Then you’ll be ready to submit your finished essay, knowing it’s as good as you can possibly make it.

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Rhetorical Essay Outline
How to Write an Essay Outline: Full Guide With Examples

Rhetorical essay outline toolkit, how to write an outline for an rhetorical essay, once you are done with these steps, this is what your structure will look like, introduction.

Begin with a brief overview of Martin Luther King Jr.'s iconic "I Have a Dream" speech
State the significance of the speech in American history and its impact on the civil rights movement.

Martin Luther King Jr.'s 'I Have a Dream' speech skillfully employs rhetorical devices such as ethos, pathos, and logos to persuade and inspire his audience toward the goal of racial equality.

Discuss how Martin Luther King Jr. established his credibility as a speaker.
Analyze specific references to his own background, qualifications, and moral authority.
Explore how ethos contributes to his persuasive appeal.
Examine the emotional appeals used in the speech to evoke empathy and solidarity among the audience
Analyze the vivid imagery and storytelling elements that resonate with listeners on an emotional level
Discuss the emotional impact of phrases like "I have a dream" and "Let freedom ring."
Explore how Martin Luther King Jr. employs logic and reason to support his arguments
Analyze statistical data and historical references used to strengthen his claims.
Discuss the structure of the speech, including the use of repetition and parallelism to enhance clarity and coherence.

Call to Action

Highlight the speech's ultimate call to action: the pursuit of racial equality.
Examine how the speech's rhetorical strategies contribute to its effectiveness as a persuasive tool.
Reiterate the thesis statement, emphasizing the rhetorical devices used in Martin Luther King Jr.'s 'I Have a Dream' speech
Summarize the key rhetorical elements discussed in the essay

This is what your outline will look like

Firstly, the essay will discuss the ethos of Martin Luther King Jr. by exploring his background and moral authority. Secondly, the essay will highlight the pathos by examining the emotional appeal and analyzing the resonation of readers with the speaker. Lastly, the logos of the essay will be highlighted by exploring the logic and reason of the speaker's argument and discussing the structure of speech and its references.

1. Identify the topic

The foundation of your rhetorical analysis.

The first and fundamental step in crafting an outline for a rhetorical essay is to clearly identify the topic you will be analyzing. This step involves precisely defining what your essay will be about, providing your readers with a clear understanding of what to expect.

If you are writing an essay on a speech by a famous personality, your topic can be “Analyzing Martin Luther King Jr.'s 'I Have a Dream' Speech”

2. Define the objective

Purpose and audience clarification.

After identifying your topic, the next step is to clarify the purpose of your essay. A rhetorical essay aims to make an argument or analyze how an author conveys their message to a specific audience. By defining your objective, you set the direction for your analysis.

If your objective is to analyze the speech, you can state, “The aim of the essay is to analyze Martin Luther King Jr.’s famous speech and identify its emotional and logical impact on the audience”

3. Craft the thesis

The central argument.

In this section of your outline, you will craft your thesis statement , which is the core of your essay. The thesis statement asserts your conclusion and takes a stand on the author's rhetorical strategies. It sets the stage for the entire essay.

Continuing the example, your thesis statement for the topic could be, “Martin Luther King Jr.'s 'I Have a Dream' speech skillfully employs rhetorical devices such as ethos, pathos, and logos to persuade and inspire his audience toward the goal of racial equality.”

4. Main points

Structuring your analysis.

Now, it's time to chart the course for your essay by outlining the key components. The structure of a rhetorical essay often involves breaking down the non-fiction text into parts and explaining how these parts work together to achieve a specific purpose—whether it's persuasion, entertainment, or information dissemination.

The main points for your essay could be

5. Sub-points

Detailed analysis.

After introducing the main points of your essay, delve into an in-depth elaboration of each point, supported by relevant examples. In this section, you will explicitly outline the main points to be discussed and specify the examples that will reinforce your arguments.

Reflect on how the rainforest's biodiversity impacted your perspective

Transformation and Personal Growth

Reflect on how the journey changed you, both physically and emotionally
Discuss the structure of the speech, including the use of repetition and parallelism to enhance clarity and coherence

All will be explained with examples and backed with statistical data.

6. Evidence and citations

Supporting your claims.

In academic essays, citing information and attributing examples, quotes, and data is essential. Clearly outline the sources from which you will be citing information to strengthen your arguments.

You can cite research papers on emotions to support your points. Also, you can mention the real-time impact of the topic on the audience.

7. Introduction and hook

Capturing your reader's attention.

A hook serves the purpose of capturing the reader's attention and piquing their curiosity. Various types of essays employ different hooking strategies. In the introduction , you will specify the type of hook you intend to use, whether it's a quotation, a compelling fact, or another approach.

You can start the introduction with a rhetorical question from the speech to create a hook like “When will you be satisfied”. Then you can continue to give a brief overview of the speech and state its significance in the context of American history.

8. Conclusion

Summarizing your analysis.

After you have stated your key points, it's time to conclude your essay. For a rhetorical essay, rhetorical questions are considered popular hooks because they make readers think about the topic.

In the conclusion, you will Reiterate the thesis statement, emphasizing the rhetorical devices used in Martin Luther King Jr.'s “I Have a Dream” speech and then the rhetorical elements you made in the essay.

9. Transitions

Transition words play a crucial role in ensuring the seamless flow of your writing, facilitating smooth transitions between sentences, paragraphs, and topics. In rhetorical essays, cause-and-effect transitions are used. These transition words are used to tell a particular situation and its subsequent effect.

In your rhetorical essay, you can use words like “moreover”, “finally”, etc. to transition from one concept, idea, or sentence to another.

10. Refine and review

Now that you've completed your outline, it's time to refine and review it. This step is crucial to maintain the logical coherence and comprehensiveness of your outline, ensuring that it serves as a strong foundation for your rhetorical essay.

Finally, during the review, you will need to ensure that each point flows logically and you have included all the necessary information and didn’t add any extra points.

Reference management. Clean and simple.

How to write a rhetorical analysis

What is a rhetorical analysis?

What are the key concepts of a rhetorical analysis, rhetorical situation, claims, supports, and warrants.

Step 1: Plan and prepare
Step 2: Write your introduction
Step 3: Write the body
Step 4: Write your conclusion

Frequently Asked Questions about rhetorical analysis

How to Write a Rhetorical Analysis: Full Guide

Have you ever been completely fascinated by a speech or ad, wondering how it managed to convince you so effectively? From powerful political speeches to catchy commercials, persuasion is all around us, shaping our thoughts and choices every day.

In this guide, we'll explain all about a rhetorical analysis essay. We'll break down the clever tricks writers and speakers use to win over their audience, like how they choose their words carefully and play with our emotions. This article will give you the tools you need to understand and analyze texts more deeply. So, let’s jump right in and start by understanding the nature of this assignment first.

What is a Rhetorical Analysis Essay

A rhetorical analysis essay is a type of essay where you examine how authors or speakers use words, phrases, and other techniques to influence or persuade their audience. This type of essay focuses on analyzing the strategies used by the writer or speaker to achieve their purpose, whether it's to inform, persuade, entertain, or provoke.

You'll dissect the text or speech into its components, looking at how each part contributes to the overall message. This might involve examining the introduction, thesis statement, body paragraphs, evidence, and conclusion.

Once you've identified the strategies used, you'll assess their effectiveness in achieving the author's or speaker's purpose. This involves considering the intended audience, context, and the impact of the communication.

As per our essay writing service , some common topics for rhetorical analysis include analyzing speeches by influential leaders, dissecting political advertisements, or examining the rhetoric used in literary works.

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Rhetorical Analysis Topic Ideas

Now that we've grasped the essence of a rhetorical analysis essay let's explore some potential topics you might consider for your own analysis. Here are 15 specific ideas to get you started:

The Use of Metaphors in Barack Obama's 'Yes We Can' Speech
Visual Rhetoric in Dove's 'Real Beauty' Advertising Campaign
The Role of Irony in Jonathan Swift's 'A Modest Proposal'
The Manipulation of Emotions in Coca-Cola's 'Share a Coke' Campaign
The Repetition Technique in Winston Churchill's 'We Shall Fight on the Beaches' Speech
The Argument Structure in Michelle Obama's Speech on Education
The Use of Imagery in Edgar Allan Poe's 'The Raven'
Gender Stereotypes in Old Spice's 'The Man Your Man Could Smell Like' Ad
Satirical Elements in George Orwell's 'Animal Farm'
The Influence of Tone in Greta Thunberg's Climate Change Speeches
Political Symbolism in Banksy's Street Art
Humor as Persuasion in Ellen DeGeneres' Stand-Up Comedy
The Power of Silence in Emma Watson's UN Speech on Gender Equality
Ethical Appeals in ASPCA's Animal Rights Advertisements
The Cultural References in Super Bowl Commercials: A Case Study

How to Write a Rhetorical Analysis

Understanding how to start a rhetorical analysis essay involves dissecting a piece of communication to learn how it works and what effect it aims to achieve. This analytical process typically includes five paragraphs and three main parts: an introduction, three body paragraphs, and a conclusion. Below, our analytical essay writing service will explain each in more detail

Major Rhetorical Elements

Before heading towards the analysis process, it's essential to grasp some key rhetorical concepts that will help guide your examination of the text or speech. These concepts provide a framework for understanding how authors and speakers use language to persuade and influence their audience.

Ethos, pathos logos in rhetorical analysis form the foundation of persuasive communication and are often intertwined in rhetorical strategies. Ethos refers to the credibility or authority of the speaker or author. Pathos involves appealing to the audience's emotions, while logos appeals to reason and logic.

There are also other rhetorical devices that are specific techniques or patterns of language used to convey meaning or evoke particular responses. Examples include metaphor, simile, imagery, irony, repetition, and hyperbole. Recognizing and analyzing these devices can provide insight into the author's intended message and its impact on the audience.

Tone and mood also play crucial roles in shaping the audience's perception and response to the communication. Tone refers to the author's attitude toward the subject matter, while mood describes the emotional atmosphere created by the text.

Whether you ask us - write my essay , or tackle the task yourself, familiarizing yourself with these concepts will help you analyze the text and persuade the audience more effectively.

Understanding Rhetorical Appeals

First off, what is ethos in rhetorical analysis? Well, it revolves around establishing the credibility and authority of the speaker or author. This appeal seeks to convince the audience that the communicator is trustworthy, knowledgeable, and reliable. Ethos in rhetorical analysis can be built through various means, including:

Professional Credentials : Demonstrating expertise in the subject matter through relevant qualifications or experience.
Personal Character : Highlighting traits such as honesty, integrity, and sincerity to engender trust and respect.
Association : Aligning oneself with respected individuals, institutions, or causes to enhance credibility by association.

For instance, in a health-related speech, a doctor might leverage their medical expertise and professional experience (credentials) to establish ethos. Similarly, a celebrity endorsing a product is using their fame and reputation (association) to persuade consumers.

Now, let's understand what is pathos in rhetorical analysis. Pathos involves appealing to the audience's emotions, aiming to evoke feelings such as empathy, sympathy, joy, anger, or fear. This emotional connection can be a powerful tool for persuasion, as it resonates with the audience on a personal level. Strategies for employing pathos in rhetorical analysis include:

Vivid Imagery : Painting a vivid picture or narrative that elicits strong emotional responses from the audience.
Anecdotes : Sharing personal stories or anecdotes that evoke empathy or sympathy and make the message more relatable.
Language Choice : Using emotive language, sensory details, and rhetorical devices to evoke specific emotional reactions.

For example, in a charity advertisement for children in need, images of impoverished and suffering children coupled with heart-wrenching stories (anecdotes) are used to evoke feelings of compassion and a desire to help.

Lastly, what is logos in rhetorical analysis, you may ask. It appeals to reason and logic, aiming to persuade the audience through rational argumentation and evidence. This appeal relies on facts, statistics, logical reasoning, and sound arguments to convince the audience of the validity of the message. Strategies for employing logos in rhetorical analysis include:

Factual Evidence : Providing empirical data, research findings, or expert opinions to support the argument.
Logical Reasoning : Presenting a well-structured argument with clear premises and conclusions that logically follow one another.
Counterarguments : Addressing potential counterarguments and refuting them with logical reasoning and evidence.

For instance, in a persuasive essay advocating for environmental conservation, the author might present scientific data on climate change (factual evidence) and use logical reasoning to explain the consequences of inaction.

Text and Context

Text analysis involves closely examining the language, structure, and rhetorical devices employed within the communication. This includes identifying key themes, rhetorical appeals, persuasive strategies, and stylistic elements used by the author or speaker to convey their message.

For example, in a political speech advocating for healthcare reform, text analysis might involve identifying the use of rhetorical appeals such as ethos (e.g., highlighting the speaker's experience in healthcare policy), pathos (e.g., sharing anecdotes of individuals struggling with medical costs), and logos (e.g., presenting statistics on healthcare affordability).

Contextual analysis involves considering the broader social, cultural, and historical factors that shape communication and influence its reception. This includes examining the audience demographics, the political and cultural climate, the historical events surrounding the communication, and any relevant societal norms or values.

For instance, when analyzing a historical speech advocating for civil rights, contextual research paper writers might involve considering the social and political context of the time, including prevailing attitudes towards race, ongoing civil rights movements, and recent legislative developments.

Claims, Supports, and Warrants

A claim is a statement or assertion that the author or speaker is advocating for or seeking to prove. Claims can take various forms, including factual claims (assertions of fact), value claims (judgments about what is good or bad), and policy claims (proposals for action). For example, in an argumentative essay about the importance of exercise, the claim might be that regular physical activity is essential for maintaining good health.

Supports are the evidence, reasoning, or examples provided to substantiate and strengthen the claims being made. Supports can take many forms, including empirical data, expert testimony, personal anecdotes, logical reasoning, and analogies. The quality and relevance of the supports provided play a critical role in the persuasiveness of the argument.

Continuing with the example of the argumentative essay about exercise, supports might include scientific studies demonstrating the health benefits of physical activity, testimonials from fitness experts, and personal stories of individuals who have experienced positive changes from incorporating exercise into their routine.

Warrants are the underlying assumptions or principles that connect the supports to the claims. They provide the reasoning or justification for why the supports are relevant and valid evidence for supporting the claims. Warrants are often implicit rather than explicit and require careful analysis to uncover. In the context of the essay on exercise, the warrant connecting the supports to the claim might be the assumption that actions that promote good health are inherently valuable and worthy of pursuit.

Rhetorical Analysis Essay Outline

Whether you opt for the option to buy essay or start writing it yourself, it's important to use a clear plan to organize your thoughts well. This plan usually includes four main steps, each looking at different parts of your analysis.

Analyzing the Text

Before writing a rhetorical analysis, take the time to thoroughly analyze the text you'll be examining. This means more than just skimming through it; it requires a thorough understanding of its subtleties and complexities. Here are some questions to guide your analysis:

How does the text try to sway its audience? What methods does it use to convince or influence them?
Which rhetorical appeals—ethos (credibility), pathos (emotion), logos (logic)—does the author use, and how do they contribute to the overall argument?
What specific rhetorical devices and strategies does the author employ to effectively convey their message? Are there any patterns or recurring motifs?
How does the structure of the text contribute to its persuasive power or overall impact?
Are there any cultural, historical, or contextual factors that influence how the text is perceived or understood?

By scrutinizing the text in this manner, you'll gain a deeper understanding of how it functions and the techniques employed by the author to achieve their desired effect.

Rhetorical Analysis Introduction

The introduction sets the stage for your analysis by providing essential context and framing the discussion. Start by introducing the text you're analyzing, including the author's name and the title of the work. Provide some background information to give context to your analysis. For example, if you're analyzing a speech, mention the occasion or event where it was delivered.

Next, summarize the main arguments or claims made by the author. Highlight the rhetorical techniques they use to persuade their audience. Are they appealing to logic, emotion, credibility, or a combination of these? Use specific examples from the text to illustrate these techniques discussed by our dissertation service .

For instance, if you're analyzing a speech on climate change, mention the speaker's expertise in environmental science to establish credibility. Summarize the key points they make about the consequences of inaction and the urgent need for change.

Finally, conclude your introduction with a clear thesis statement. This statement should encapsulate the main argument or purpose of your analysis.

Rhetorical Analysis Body Paragraph

The body paragraphs form the crux of your analysis, where you delve into the details of the text and dissect its rhetorical strategies. Each paragraph should focus on a specific aspect of the text, such as the use of ethos, pathos, logos, or specific rhetorical devices.

Utilize Aristotle's rhetorical triangle and other key concepts introduced earlier to guide your analysis. Provide quotations or examples from the text to illustrate your points and explain why the author chose certain approaches. Evaluate the effectiveness of these strategies in achieving the author's goals and persuading the audience.

For instance, if you're discussing the use of pathos in a marketing campaign, analyze the emotional appeal of the imagery or language used and consider how it resonates with the target audience.

Rhetorical Analysis Conclusion

In the conclusion, it's crucial to reinforce your main arguments and evaluate the author's effectiveness in achieving their goals, whether you're writing an MLA or APA essay format . Reflect on the overall impact of the text on both its immediate audience and society at large, underscoring the importance of your analysis.

Resist the temptation to introduce new ideas in the conclusion. Instead, draw upon the points you've already explored in the body of your essay to strengthen your analysis. Conclude with a poignant statement that resonates with your readers, encapsulating the essence of your interpretation and leaving a lasting impression. This final remark should tie together the threads of your analysis, leaving the reader with a deeper understanding of the text's rhetorical strategies and significance.

Rhetorical Analysis Essay Example

In this section, you'll discover two essay samples that skillfully demonstrate the application of rhetorical analysis. These examples offer insightful insights into the effective use of rhetorical techniques in writing.

5 Rhetorical Analysis Essay Tips

Here are five focused tips that will help you lay a solid foundation for your examination.

Dissect Rhetorical Strategies : Break down the text to identify specific rhetorical devices such as metaphor, simile, or parallelism.
Evaluate Tone and Diction : Pay attention to the author's tone and word choice. Analyze how these elements contribute to the overall mood of the text.
Probe Ethos, Pathos, Logos : Explore how the author establishes credibility (ethos), evokes emotions (pathos), and employs logic (logos) to sway the audience.
Contextualize Historical Significance : Consider the historical, cultural, and social backdrop against which the text was written.
Craft a Structured Analysis : Organize your essay with a clear introduction, body paragraphs focusing on specific rhetorical elements, and a conclusion that synthesizes your findings.

Final Words

As we near the end, it's important to analyze carefully whether you're examining a speech, an advertisement, or a story. Pay attention to the smart tactics that influence our thinking. It's all about revealing how we communicate and relate to one another. Ultimately, understanding rhetoric offers a fresh perspective on the world beyond just academic success.

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What is a Rhetorical Analysis Essay?

How to structure a rhetorical analysis essay, how to write a rhetorical analysis essay, related articles.

Rhetorical Analysis Essay

Rhetorical Analysis Essay Outline

Rhetorical Analysis Essay Outline - Tips & Examples

11 min read

Published on: Aug 4, 2020

Last updated on: Jan 31, 2024

How to Write a Rhetorical Analysis Essay Outline?

An outline of an essay is as important as a backbone to the human body. An outline provides a structure to the content making it readable and understandable for the readers.

A rhetorical analysis essay uses the traditional essay outline to arrange its content. According to the standard outline, an essay is divided into three sections and five paragraphs.

Introduction
Body Paragraph 1
Body Paragraph 2
Body Paragraph 3

Outlining an essay falls under the planning phase. Experts suggest before you jump on to the writing process, plan out your essay. Arrange all the gathered ideas and information in a logical order to make it easier for you to write the essay.

Start your essay with all the pre-writing steps. Pre-writing includes choosing a topic, identifying the target audience, and gathering supporting information. After taking these steps, arrange everything according to the outline.

Continue reading to learn how the information is organized in each section.

An introduction is the first section of your rhetorical analysis essay. It introduces the selected piece of work and the essay topic to the audience.

The rhetorical analysis essayâs introductory paragraphs must be informative to clear the primary goal to the readers. The rhetorical analysis introduction has three basic components:

Background information
Thesis statement.

The opening statement of the introductory paragraph is called a hook. The purpose of drafting this sentence is to grab the readerâs attention and motivate them to read the entire essay. The hook statement is designed, keeping in mind the chosen text and its theme.

Once you have started your essay, provide the background information for your essay. The background information includes the author and his workâs introduction and strategies to persuade the audience.

After this, the writer provides his argument or claim on the original text. It is the essayâs thesis statement, and the writer proves it by gathering evidence from the chosen content. The last part of the introduction makes the audience clear about what the paper is about.

Here's an example of a rhetorical essay introduction to a speech from president trump:

Your essayâs body is the most significant section of the outline as it contains all the details on the topic. Therefore, this part of the essay presents an in-depth analysis of the text.

Each point is discussed in a separate paragraph in the body section. A topic sentence is used for each paragraph. It focuses on the point that is to be addressed in that particular segment. The topic sentence makes it easier for the readers to identify which aspect is under discussion in that specific paragraph.

Moreover, the body paragraphs shed light on the persuasive methods that the author used and their effectiveness. The writer uses quotes and analysis to support the main thesis statement .

A trick to making your content stand out is to quote less and provide more analysis. The readers are looking forward to seeing your viewpoint on the text.

In a nutshell, the body of the rhetorical analysis essay should discuss the following things:

Effectiveness of the strategies
How well the strategy works in the example?
Reasons behind choosing the specific approach
Effects of the appeals on the audience

Hereâs an example of a rhetorical analysis essayâs body paragraphs.

All the paragraphs in the body section should lead the audience toward the rhetorical analysis essayâs conclusion. It is the last section where the discussion is concluded by summarizing the significant points. Moreover, the conclusion also highlights how the author influenced the audienceâs opinion or society in general.

At the end of the concluding paragraph, restate the textâs importance and its contribution to history.

Rhetorical Analysis Essay Outline Template (PDF)

Types of Rhetorical Strategies

Writing a rhetorical analysis essay is a bit different from other essay types . The reason is, a writer studies rhetorical or persuasive techniques used by the author to influence his audience.

Generally, there are three rhetorical devices or strategies through which the author attempts to persuade the audience. These include:

Ethos - It establishes the writerâs credibility in the work. Ethos is then used to persuade the audience on a particle idea. The author built this credibility through his knowledge, expertise, and moral competence in the field.
Pathos - It is a device that the author uses to appeal to the readerâs emotions. The goal of this technique is to arouse feelings in the audience to persuade them.
Logos - Unlike the other two devices, logos is a strategy that uses logic and reasons to persuade readers. The writer uses facts, critical thinking, statistics, and undeniable data to convince the audience of his viewpoint.

For writing an effective rhetorical analysis essay, a writer identifies the authorâs strategies in the original text and evaluates them.

Here's an example of ethos, pathos, and logos.

Watch the video to discover more about rhetorical strategies and how they can help you create persuasive content.

Rhetorical Analysis Essay Example

Students require written examples and essay samples to understand the actual writing process and its structure. The following are examples to make the students learn the rhetorical analysis essay concept.

These examples will allow them to draft an impressive piece, making them achieve higher grades.

How to Write a Rhetorical Analysis Essay - Sample (PDF)

Rhetorical Analysis Essay Sample (PDF)

Rhetorical Analysis Essay Outline College

Comparative Rhetorical Analysis Essay Outline

AP Lang Rhetorical Analysis Essay Outline

Visual Rhetorical Analysis Essay Outline

Searching for additional rhetorical analysis essay examples ? Click this link to explore more essays!

Rhetorical Analysis Essay Topics

Rhetorical analysis essays are a great way to practice analyzing and interpreting the persuasive techniques used in different forms of media.

So, if youâre stuck on where to begin, why not start with one of these Rhetorical Analysis Essay topics for college students?

"I Have a Dream" speech by Martin Luther King Jr.
"The Gettysburg Address" by President Abraham Lincoln
The use of imagery in Edgar Allan Poe's "The Raven"
The impact of tone in F. Scott Fitzgerald's "The Great Gatsby"
The use of ethos, pathos, and logos in Arthur Miller's "The Crucible"
"The First Inaugural Address" by President Franklin D. Roosevelt
"The Ballot or the Bullet" speech by Malcolm X
"A Modest Proposal" by Jonathan Swift
Civil rights movement protests
The representation of society in Jane Austen's "Pride and Prejudice"

Need more rhetorical analysis essay topics ? Visit this link!

In summary, the rhetorical analysis essay outline is a valuable tool to analyze a piece of writing. By using the outline to structure their analysis, writers can present a clear and convincing argument.

Are you still confused? Not sure where to take the start and which format to follow? Take our professional's help.

Embark on your academic journey with confidence, thanks to our college essay writing service . Tailored to meet the unique demands of college assignments, our team of expert writers is committed to delivering essays that not only meet but exceed your expectations.

Or, elevate your writing experience with our AI essay writer , an advanced tool designed to refine your essays with the precision of artificial intelligence.

Frequently Asked Questions

How do you outline a rhetorical analysis.

Here are some tips that will help you outline a rhetorical analysis essay.

Identify the rhetorical strategies
Describe the rhetoric appeals
State your thesis statement
Organize your ideas

What are the 5 parts of rhetorical analysis?

Below are the five main parts of rhetorical analysis.

How many paragraphs is a rhetorical analysis essay?

When writing a rhetorical analysis, it is important to use a typical 5-paragraph essay structure. A rhetorical analysis essay must include three essential parts: an introduction, body paragraphs, and a conclusion.

What are the 6 elements of the rhetorical situation?

The six main elements of the rhetorical situation are;

What are the 8 rhetorical modes?

The main eight rhetorical modes are;

Description
Illustration
Compare and contrast
Cause and effect
Classification
Argumentation

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Rhetorical Analysis Essay Guide

Rhetorical Analysis Essay Outline

Last updated on: Feb 9, 2023

Rhetorical Analysis Essay Outline - Template & Writing Guide

By: Betty P.

Reviewed By: Melisa C.

Published on: Feb 11, 2020

Students often freak out when they hear the professor assigning a rhetorical analysis essay.

It is considered to be one of the most challenging tasks, and it sure is a little complicated, but definitely not impossible.

The first step for writing a rhetorical essay is to understand exactly what it is.

The reason why students find rhetorical essays to be a daunting task is the fact that writing such essays requires analysis of anything ranging from a literary work to a piece of art or even an advertisement.

The writer’s task is to analyze it and figure out the goal of the creator, author or painter, and the way he conveyed his views. The explanation also includes the extent to which he achieved his goal.

However, there is absolutely no need to be intimidated by it. Once you figure out the design to follow, writing a rhetorical analysis essay will be a piece of cake.

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How to Write a Rhetorical Analysis Essay Outline

The outline for any type of writing is just like a skeleton, keeping a human body erect and well-structured. After choosing a good rhetorical analysis essay topic, following the correct rhetorical analysis essay outline will make the writing process logical and ten times easier.

Before you jump straight to writing, take your time to read and understand the original text carefully and analyze the information side by side. Focus on the author, his intended audience, his purpose, the setting, and other details.

‘How do you write a rhetorical analysis essay outline?’

To learn how to write a rhetorical analysis essay, continue reading the section given below.

Introduction

The introduction section of your essay is the part where you inform your readers about the original text that you are going to analyze.

Consider the following elements of the text when doing the analysis:

Target audience
Background context

Keep this information clear and to the point by focusing on important aspects of the text only. Also, the introductory paragraph must specify whether or not the author was successful in achieving his goal.

Start your introduction with an interesting hook. Briefly describe the author and the work, followed by your judgment and purpose of choosing it.

Write a strong thesis statement at the end of the introduction and highlight the point that you are going to discuss in the essay. A thesis statement is the most important component of the essay as it provides a brief guide on what is going to be discussed in it.

Thesis Statement

A thesis is usually one to two sentences long, written at the end of the introductory paragraph to define the purpose of your essay.

The thesis statement should be clear and concise, with the sole purpose of informing the reader what to expect from your paper.

Point out the tools used by the author and how they supported his argument.

As mentioned above, the thesis statement must outline the tools that you are going to analyze in the essay.

Typically, the authors use the following kinds of tools in their work:

Simile - a direct comparison of two things by using "like" and "as."

Imagery – visually descriptive language.

Diction – the writer's choice of words and style of expression.

Body Paragraphs

The body of a rhetorical analysis essay should analyze the original text or work. Analyze how the tools used by the author helped fulfill the purpose of the text.

Start each paragraph in the body section with a topic sentence that should refer back to your thesis statement and fortify it further.

In addition to the topic sentence, it should also include a short quote from the original text that you will use to stress the idea and analyze it.

The body should be made up of the analysis, which should be three times more than the quoted text.

The persuasive methods, ethos, pathos, and logos, will be used in the body paragraphs to analyze the content. Also, respond to the questions that are mentioned in the previous step and describe the strategies used by the author.

You can also use quotes and findings to support your thesis.

Ethos, Pathos, Logos

Did the author use rhetorical appeals such as ethos, logos, pathos? When analyzing the text, notice how the author has used them to prove his point.

Ethos displays how the writer establishes reliability and integrity through tone or credentials, or both.

Pathos is the use of feelings as an appeal to the audience's emotions. The writer may add pathos by using emotional language or personal stories.

Logos indicates the logical use of the author's ideas and how he concludes things. Make sure you keep them in your mind while analyzing your text, and employ these tips in your paper.

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Rhetorical Strategies

Authors use different types of rhetorical techniques or strategies to examine and better analyze the paragraphs and the content of the entire essay. These strategies help the authors to express their point of view and persuade the audience by following a pattern.

The most common strategies leading to an engaging rhetorical analysis include:

1. Description

Defining strategy involves telling your reader about what something means. It explains what something is and something is not. Defining strategy makes sure your readers understand what you mean by a specific term.

2. Cause and Effect

It focuses on the causes to help readers understand why something happened. Cause concerns the future while effect looks back at the past. But you can use this strategy either way from the present to the past or from the present to the future.

3. Process Analysis

With the process strategy, the writer illustrates how something is done. It goes from everyday processes like writing an application letter to complex processes such as how to face death. This rhetorical strategy is mostly used in historical essays to show how something has been done in the past.

4. Exemplification

One of the most commonly used rhetorical analysis strategies is where the writer provides examples to illustrate a larger point in detail. To make a point, there should be a clear relationship between the examples and the point you make.

5. Compare and Contrast

This rhetorical strategy looks for similarities and differences. Compare and contrast strategy is widely used in writing reports, making an argument, or even giving a speech to convince your readers.

6. Narration

Another important and one of the fundamental rhetorical strategies. Narration is which we tell stories about our life experiences to make a point.

The concluding paragraph is where the reader leaves you; make sure you address your main argument to strengthen its effect.

Provide an overview of the positive and negative points of the text and state whether or not the text was effective.

This was the basic outline that needs to be followed when tackling a rhetorical analysis essay.

Rhetorical Analysis Essay Outline Template

If this is your first time dealing with such essays, then this sample rhetorical analysis essay outline template will definitely come in handy. Just go through it once and fill out the sections one by one.

OUTLINE TEMPLATE FOR RHETORICAL ANALYSIS ESSAY (PDF)

AP RHETORICAL ANALYSIS ESSAY (PDF)

THOMAS PAINE RHETORICAL ANALYSIS ESSAY OUTLINE (PDF)

Rhetorical Analysis Essay Example

A great approach is to read some examples of rhetorical analysis essays to understand the concept of writing a great rhetorical piece of the paper better.

RHETORICAL ANALYSIS ESSAY EXAMPLE (PDF)

You can also explore a great rhetorical analysis essay example from our expert writers to understand what it takes to craft a brilliant piece of writing.

Great Rhetorical Analysis Essay Tips

When writing a detailed outline for your rhetorical analysis essay, make sure that you take care of the following things.

Study an essay topic, book, painting, or any other piece of art, thoroughly before choosing a topic for your essay.
Present the right information in each of the essay sections.
Do not mention the main details in the introduction and thesis statement section.
Do not add new information or ideas in the conclusion.
Reread and recheck the entire outline and key points after you are done writing.

Hopefully, you have understood the basics of the rhetorical analysis essay outline by now, and you are confident and willing to give it a try. If you want to learn more about rhetorical analysis essays, here is a detailed guide that covers everything about writing a rhetorical analysis essay .

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Frequently Asked Questions

What is the purpose of rhetorical analysis.

When writing a rhetorical analysis essay, the main purpose of the writer is to convey his message to the intended audience.

What is the difference between rhetorical analysis and critical analysis?

In a rhetorical analysis essay, different parts of a text or work are discussed as they work together to form meaning. In a critical essay, the different parts of the work are critically analyzed, and arguments are formed around them.

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Betty is a freelance writer and researcher. She has a Masters in literature and enjoys providing writing services to her clients. Betty is an avid reader and loves learning new things. She has provided writing services to clients from all academic levels and related academic fields.

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Rhetorical Analysis Essay - The Ultimate Guide

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How to Create a Compelling Rhetorical Analysis Essay Outline

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How to Create a Compelling Rhetorical Analysis Essay Outline intro image

Do you need to write a rhetorical analysis essay outline? Even the word is quite a mouthful, and it can seem far more intimidating than it really is, especially if you’re new to the style. That’s why we’ve put together this super helpful guide to the rhetorical essay format and everything you need to know to get the job done.

In this article:

What is a Rhetorical Analysis Essay?

How long should my rhetorical analysis essay be, rhetorical appeals, analysis and evaluation, thesis statement, prepare to write:, rhetorical analysis introduction, ethos, pathos, logos, rhetorical analysis essay strategies.

Before we look at the rhetorical analysis format, let’s answer a fundamental question – what is a rhetorical analysis essay, anyway? Rhetorical analysis essays take another person’s work of nonfiction (usually, sometimes fiction is allowed) and dig deep into how the message was presented and why. They can be about anything – from books to magazine articles, famous speeches, and even TV commercials and videos. It’s all about looking deeply into how the media created its message and whether it’s effective at delivering it.

Why learn how to write a rhetorical analysis essay? It’s essential to know how people deliver a message. Think of marketing. Successful marketers don’t just make things up and hope for the best! They review what their successful competition is doing and figure out how to leverage it for their brand. This includes creating the right effect with the message, using power words that will drive their campaign, and so on – all skills you will learn while creating the outline for your rhetorical analysis essay.

As you can see, it’s an important critical skill to develop, and your rhetorical analysis essay will help you learn a lot about how humans respond to what we consume as well.

There is no strict rule about how long a rhetorical analysis essay should be, unless you have been given a target word length by your school or professor. You will, however, need to include key parts in your rhetorical analysis-conclusion, opening paragraph, thesis statement, and enough body sections to adequately make your analysis and argument. Our rhetorical analysis thesis outline will assist with this.

How to Write a Rhetorical Analysis Essay?

We will look at the rhetorical analysis essay outline in more detail below. First, however, it’s important to identify the steps you will take in writing your essay, to make sure it is insightful and clear to the reader. How do you analyze your source material?

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You will start by noting the overall rhetorical elements used. Here are four key elements:

Purpose : Why did the speaker or author create this piece? What were they hoping to achieve or convince people of?
Audience : Who was the piece directed at? What are their backgrounds and demographics? What unites them as an audience?
Context : No piece is an island. What was/is happening around the work you are analyzing? What was the social climate, place, and time when it was written? What was happening around it?
Medium : How is the message being delivered to us? Why would this be the best way to express the thought?

With that framework in mind, now move on to the rhetorical appeals and devices the author uses. This includes ethos, pathos, and logos, which we’ve looked at in detail in the next section. Also, consider how they are evoked – the imagery used, the tone taken, the syntax offered, and so on.

Of course, the point here is an analysis of the content you’ve chosen. So now it’s time to dig deep into how they used these methods and why they selected them. Were they successful or not? Why? Why not? If it wasn’t a successful attempt, what do you think the audience actually felt? At this point, you are building the ‘meat’ of your actual rhetorical analysis essay, so spend a lot of time with this. Remember, your evaluation is your main argument!

We revisit this a little later, but it’s worth adding here, too. Try to take these overall ideas and refine them into a straightforward thesis statement. This will help you build a strong foundation for your essay. This statement must demonstrate:

The purpose the content creator had for the content
The methods they used
How effective they were

And contain the very core of your argument, which the rest of the essay develops further. It could look something like this:

In (content piece), the author compellingly demonstrates how removing access to some forms of public transport adversely affected vulnerable community members. They presented factual data, alongside personal experience and anecdotes that spoke to the problem’s root.

With that core element of your essay nailed down, you can begin to organize the thoughts, ideas, and evidence you’ve unearthed so far into your outline. Let’s take a closer look at it.

Rhetorical Analysis Essay Outline

So, what goes into the outline of a rhetorical analysis essay? It’s worth spending some time creating a rhetorical analysis essay/thesis outline for your work, even if it seems like wasted time. With a streamlined, sensible process in place, and a solid framework to work within, it will be much easier to organize the flow of your thoughts. So it’s time to create your rhetorical analysis outline.

As you go, think about the work you’re analyzing. Focus on aspects like the creator, their intention and message, the setting, and other vital details. Not only will this help you easily create the rhetorical analysis outline, but it will also do a lot of the work.

How to start a rhetorical analysis is one of the most asked questions by students – and with good reason. The introduction needs to achieve many things. You will be telling the reader about what you’re analyzing, whether it achieved its goals, and hooking the reader to keep reading along with you. This means it has to be one of the strongest parts of your essay.

Open on something interesting to pull people into your writing, known as a hook . Then introduce the author and work you are examining. There is no need for deep detail as that’s for the body but enough to grasp the subject. Explain whether or not you think they were successful with their message and why you decided on that judgment.

Here at the end of the introduction is also where your thesis statement will reside. A strong thesis statement is critical to a rhetorical analysis essay. In many ways, it is the lynchpin of the whole essay. Think of it as a quick guide to the entire argument you will be making.

It should be one or two sentences long, very clear and concise, and carry the intent of informing what the reader will get from your paper. You will outline the tools you are using to analyze the source material. Three of these are most typical for rhetorical analysis essays:

Diction : How the author uses words and styles
Imagery : The visually descriptive language they use
Simile : Direct ‘like’ and ‘as’ comparisons between items.

The Body of your rhetorical outline is the most changeable part of the rhetorical analysis essay template. You can make a convincing argument in as little as 500 words . Or you may need more space. Don’t confuse being wordy with being ‘smart’ or ‘effective’- try to use as few words as you need to be concise and clear.

Here is where you will do the bulk of your analysis. Look at how the author used their tools to drive the purpose of the text.

While you can use any number of paragraphs, we suggest at least 3. Each should open with a topic sentence that links it to your thesis statement, proving and fortifying it. Add a relevant quote from the original text that helps demonstrate your point. Then use the rest of the text for your analysis. This should be at least three times longer than the quoted text. Quotes and findings that support your point will be used throughout.

These are the three classic rhetorical appeals that you should use to help you analyze the text. Use them throughout the body.

Ethos : How the author establishes themselves as reliable and trustworthy with their tone or credentials.
Pathos : ‘Tugging on your feelings.’ This is how an appeal to the reader’s emotions is made through emotive language or touching stories.
Logos : This is the root word for Logic, which should give you a hint. How does the author develop their ideas logically? Do they reach sensible conclusions?

Once you’ve established your argument and developed it through the body, you will round off with a paragraph as a conclusion. It’s the most forgotten part of the rhetorical analysis essay format, so keep it in mind! You need to reiterate your main argument to emphasize your point concisely. Give a quick overview of the pros and cons in the text, and restate whether you feel they were effective.

And there you have it! This is the basic rhetorical analysis template that can be adapted to a wide range of essays.

Now you have a rhetorical analysis essay outline/template to follow, but the hard work doesn’t stop there. Throughout your essay, you need to demonstrate strong use of rhetorical analysis strategies to examine the essay contents. This helps you persuade your audience and develop your argument. There are many different strategies, but these are the most commonly used:

Description : This is the most straightforward strategy, merely telling your reader something through the direct description. What is it? What is it not? This helps them understand what a specific term means as you use it.
Cause and effect : The key part of this strategy is the cause. The effect is what happened because of that cause. In this way, you join the present (effect) to the past (cause), or the present (cause) to future action (effect).
Process Analysis : How was something achieved? This is a strategy that’s good for history-focused essays, as it shows how something was achieved in the past but can be used for any topic. For example, this article is a process analysis! You also find process analysis used to explore topics from simple descriptions of how to do tasks, to complex advice like processing grief.
Exemplification : This is another commonly used strategy. You give examples to illustrate your overall point. Every time you analyze a quote, you’re using this. However, make sure that there is a transparent and explainable relationship between your quote and the point you’re making.
Compare and Contrast : What is similar and different? This is a strong strategy used often in arguments, speeches, and reports, which is useful for rhetorical analysis.
Narration : Narration takes the reader on a journey through storytelling, which is why it’s an essential rhetorical strategy. We use life experience and personal stories to make our points.

Analyzing rhetoric is how we evaluate and understand what other creators have made. We also arrive at better ways to make our arguments more efficient through such analysis. That’s why it’s worth exploring all of these rhetorical analysis strategies and how they can be applied to your topic even if you discard some for your practical purposes.

Don’t just mechanically approach your topic. That way, you just hear what they say. Instead, pay attention to how they say it, using these strategies. This will help you develop your critical thinking, one of the most important things you will ever do. This is your toolkit that will help you evaluate media critically, a skill that will help you throughout your life.

And there you have it! You have learned how to write a rhetorical analysis essay, from choosing your topics to developing a coherent argument in a logical outline. We’ve even looked at some key tips and strategies for your rhetorical analysis essay, too. With this outline and these tools in your kit, you will be able to take your conclusions and express them to the reader logically. Now it’s up to you to practice those skills!

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How to Write a Rhetorical Analysis Essay: Outline, Steps, & Examples

If you are assigned to write a rhetorical analysis essay, you have one significant advantage. You can choose a text from an almost infinite number of resources. The most important thing is that you analyze the statement addressed to an audience. The task of a rhetorical analysis essay is to identify the speaker’s main objectives. However, it is also crucial to work through the rhetorical strategies the speaker uses.

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In this article by Custom-Writing.org experts, you will get to know the SOAPSTone and rhetorical appeals. This is included in our seven-step guide on how to write a rhetorical analysis essay. You’ll find out the essential tips on formatting and formulating the thesis statement. There are also a rhetorical essay outline and examples at the end for your reference!

❓ What Is Rhetorical Analysis?
👣 Writing Steps
👀 Essay Examples

🔗 References

❓ what is a rhetorical analysis essay.

In a rhetorical analysis essay, you have to divide a text into parts and explain whether they work together or not . It is quite different from a usual literary analysis . The task is to find out how successful the speaker is at reaching their objective.

How to Write a Rhetorical Analysis Essay: Main Steps

There are several steps you should follow to hit the highest score for your essay. First, you should work with SOAPSTone and rhetorical appeals. Then, you should proceed with basic tasks, such as writing a thesis statement and outline. When you have these done, it’s time to put it all together into the three main parts of the essay.

To do rhetorical analysis, identify the SOAPSTone of the text & its rhetorical appeals, make a thesis & an outline, then write your essay.

Step #1: Identify the SOAPSTone of the Text

SOAPSTone is a very handy tool to help you understand the text you are dealing with. The following questions allow you to gather all the information you will need for future analysis.

SOAPSTone: S - Speaker, O - Occation, A - Audience, P - Purpose, S - Subject.

Step #2: Identify Rhetorical Appeals Used in the Text

Rhetorical appeals are also known as “modes of persuasion” and include ethos, pathos, and logos. They can be understood as tools for making others believe a particular point of view. Some of the most potent examples can be found in advertisements.

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Ethos is related to the speaker’s credibility. Mentioning some impressive qualifications or years of practice reassures the reader of the speaker’s reliability and trustworthiness. It helps to persuade the audience.

For example, a doctor might write an article about the surgery success rate after 30 years of practicing in the field. Demonstrating one’s expertise like this is an excellent example of ethos.

Pathos is all about emotions. Evoking deep feelings in the listeners is a powerful tool, which helps the speaker convince them. The range of emotions varies from love, admiration, and sympathy to anger and hate. Whenever the response from the audience aligns with what the speaker is expecting, it is a win. Usually, it is achieved by using provocative language.

For instance, a mayoral candidate shouts out into the crowd that hundreds of people could lose their jobs if they don’t do something. The speaker aims to make the audience feel resentful of the current situation and sympathetic to a new plan. This way, they are more likely to vote for this candidate since they feel passionate about the promises.

Emotions are not always enough to convince someone to follow you, are they? Therefore, the last crucial mode is logos. Logos is responsible for logic. Appealing to reason is mostly used in an academic environment , but it’s not uncommon in other fields. The speaker could use reliable data , facts, and evidence to convince the audience.

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Using numbers is always a good idea. For example, during the presentation, the speaker can include some graphs and percentages: “Last year, we finished 23% of projects ahead of schedule, saving over two million dollars for our customers.”

Step #3: Formulate Your Thesis Statement

Remember that your thesis statement is considered to be the front page of your paper. When successfully composed, it points out the main idea of your essay. Therefore, it has to be as clear and specific as possible.

You want to include everything you found out about the chosen text in this single sentence. If you didn’t skip the first two steps, it shouldn’t be a problem! A decent thesis statement would look like this:

“In her article, the writer mentions her expertise and up-to-date statistics, and appeals to the readers’ pity to convince them of the necessity of regular yearly check-ups for disease prevention.”

Don’t worry if you still can’t come up with anything decent. try using a rhetorical analysis thesis generator that will give you some ideas of what direction you should take in your writing.

Step #4: Create Your Rhetorical Analysis Essay Outline

Even though keeping your essay organized is not your most important task, it is undoubtedly helpful! If you don’t want to forget anything and save yourself quite a lot of time, follow our advice and write an outline . This can be especially helpful if you mostly use visual memory.

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Introduction, main body, and conclusion create the basic layout of any essay. The main body of the paper includes at least three paragraphs. The rhetorical analysis essay outline also fits this rule.

Carefully go through all the notes you’ve made and mark the main points you want to include in your essay. Think about the evidence you have to support them. Along with the thesis statement, write it all down in a format of a list. When you are done with it, you may use it as a cheat sheet during the next steps of the writing process.

Now, you’re all set up and ready to begin writing your essay!

Step #5: Write Your Rhetorical Analysis Essay Introduction

There are several things you need to consider when writing an introduction:

If it’s not your school assignment, let the reader know that it’s a rhetorical analysis.
Come up with a hook to interest the reader.
Don’t forget to mention the text or speech you’re analyzing. You can also drop a few facts about it.
Think of the SOAPSTone details that matter and include them here as well. You don’t have to mention all of the parts, just the ones that make sense to you.
At the end of the introduction, write your thesis statement . It brings more clarity to this part of the essay.

Step #6: Write Your Body Paragraphs

As usual, this is where you put all your findings and support them with some facts. Don’t forget that there should be at least three body paragraphs . Since it fits the number of rhetorical appeals, you can go ahead and write about ethos, pathos, and logos. Another way of organizing the paragraphs is to present the text’s details chronologically, meaning from beginning to end. In this case, whatever text or speech you chose, it was probably well-prepared, so it helps your analysis look coherent.

It doesn’t matter which option you prefer, but make sure you provide enough support for your arguments . The most effective way to make it work is to use quotes. Also, stick to using the third-person so that you don’t break the rules of academic writing.

You can see how your main points can be organized most effectively in the rhetorical analysis essay sample at the end of the article.

Step #7: Write Your Rhetorical Analysis Essay Conclusion

The purpose of the conclusion is to sum up the most important findings of your analysis . You need to include your thesis statement here as well, but not word-for-word. Aim to paraphrase it and make it seem more sophisticated. This can be achieved by using new terminology. Maybe there is something the readers now understand from your essay that they couldn’t have before.

Then, in the form of a summary, briefly mention the main ideas that support your thesis. You don’t have to be a professional summary typer , just get your idea across in a concise manner. You might add a few words about the importance of your analysis as well. If you think that this issue is worth further research, write that down too.

👀 Rhetorical Analysis Essay: Examples

Below you’ll find an essay aiming to analyze On Women’s Right to Vote by Susan B. Anthony – a speech regarded as one of the best in American history. In this rhetorical analysis essay example, you can see how to put everything together by following the seven-step guide above. Here, the main body is divided into three paragraphs presenting one rhetorical appeal each.

Here are some other essay examples for you to check out.

Obama Speech: Rhetorical Analysis and Evaluation
“Get Out” Movie’s Rhetorical Analysis
Susan B. Anthony’s Speech: Rhetorical Analysis
Rhetorical Analysis of John F. Kennedy’s Inaugural Address
Steve Jobs’ Commencement: Rhetorical Analysis
Blogs on Euthanasia: Rhetorical Analysis
Rhetorical Writing Analysis of Jenna Berko’s Essay

Rhetorical Analysis Essay Topics

A rhetorical analysis of one of Hallmark’s commercials .
Steve Jobs’ speech at Stanford University in 2005: rhetorical analysis.
The use of rhetorical devices in Gary Shteyngart’s Only Disconnect .
Rhetorical strategies used in horror film Us by Jordan Peele.
Analyze Hamlet’s monologues in W. Shakespeare’s The Tragedy of Hamlet, Prince of Denmark .
Discuss how Martin Luther King Jr. uses rhetorical appeals in his Letter from Birmingham Jail .
Describe the rhetorical devices used in Greta Thunberg’s speech .
The common rhetorical aspects used in articles of Carolyn Gregoire and Sophie Reeves .
Examine the rhetoric in Brooks’ Reading Too Much Political News Is Bad for Your Well-Being .
Analyse the persuasive devices in Google Analytics App .
Study the application of rhetorical strategies in Beyond Vietnam: A Time to Break Silence by Martin Luther King, Jr .
Compare the lyrics rhetoric in The Times They Are A-Changing and The Wind of Change .
Rhetorical analysis for applying critical thinking .
Describe the rhetorical devices used in Confessions of a Female Chauvinist Sow by Anne Roiphe .
Examine the persuasive techniques in the Gillette commercial We Believe: The Best Men Can Be .
Compare the rhetorical schemes of Abraham Lincoln’s Second Inaugural Address and Emily Dickinson’s Success is Counted Sweetest .
Rhetorical analysis of Media Control by Noam Chomsky .
Analyse the persuasive devices used in political debates The Issue of Women and Race (2019).
Rhetorical appeal in Andrew Cadelago’s film Snack Attack .
Discuss the rhetorical strategies in Hidden Intellectualism by Gerald Graff .
Analyse the persuasive devices used in Angelina Jolie’s speech on female empowerment .
Describe the rhetorical appeals applied by Steinbeck in Of Mice and Men to stir up the emotions of the readers.
Compare the rhetoric of Margaret Fuller and Fredrick Douglass . .
Body by Milk and Moms Demand Action advertising campaigns: rhetorical analysis.
Describe the use of three appeals in Coors Light Beer ad .
Discuss the persuasive tactics in the 1950s advertising with Marilyn Monroe .
Analyze the rhetorical strategies in Aveeno advertisement .
Examine the efficiency of persuasive devices in the Stop Bullying public campaign .
The instruments used to persuade the audience in Anti-Drug Abuse public campaign .
Explore the rhetorical appeals in Julius Caesar by W. Shakespeare .
Analyze the persuasive strategies of FIFA franchise.
Rhetoric of The American Scholar by Ralph Waldo Emerson.
Describe the rhetorical devices that made Pericles’ Funeral Oration one of the world’s most influential speeches.
Persuasive techniques in American Crisis by Thomas Paine.
Analyze the rhetorical strategies used by Linda Hogan in Dwellings .
Explore the modes of persuasion in Narrative of the Life of Frederick Douglas .
The Myth of the Charioteer : rhetorical analysis.
Discuss the rhetorical appeals of Pop Can: Popular Culture in Canada .
The three appeals in Claire Giordano’s Virtual Promise .
Rhetorical devices in the film Henry V (1944) directed by Laurence Olivier.
Describe the rhetoric technique used by Michelle Obama in her TED speech .
Analyze the persuasive tactics in James Q. Wilson’s Just Take Away Their Guns .
Compare the rhetorical strategies in Moore’s Idiot Nation and Gatto’s Against School .
What in the world is a rhetorical analysis? – NC State University
Rhetorical Analysis – Stanford University
Rhetorical Strategies // Purdue Writing Lab
Rhetorical Analysis – Writers Workshop (Illinois)
Rhetorical Analysis – SAGE Research Methods
Rhetorical Analysis | Department of English | University of Washington
Doing a Rhetorical Analysis of a Text (CSU)
Aristotle’s Rhetorical Situation // Purdue Writing Lab
Ethos, logos, pathos: Strategies of persuasion in social/environmental reports
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5 Strategic Steps When Using A Rhetorical Analysis Essay Outline

Sep 22, 2020

Teaching writing is tough! We live in a world with a multitude of resources available, but so many times, it’s just not enough. Students need simple ways to analyze rhetoric, and a rhetorical analysis essay outline is just the ticket! By simplifying the process of Rhetorical Analysis , we can work to ensure that all students can, to some degree, master the writing process.

More than anything, they need a plan! With a Rhetorical Analysis Essay Outline , every student has the opportunity to write an essay that works through the difficult process of rhetorical analysis!

Keep reading for 5 Strategic Steps When Using A Rhetorical Analysis Essay Outline !

Need help with Reading Test Prep? Check out this FREE Pack of 3 Test Prep Activities to help students achieve success on standardized tests!

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Table of Contents

1. Annotate while reading.

Many students believe that they can just read something without interacting with a text in some way. With a focused annotation strategy, writing a rhetorical analysis will be much easier! Model how to underline textual evidence for each of the ideas below, label the concept near the evidence (ex. Speaker), and then write a note about the meaning and relevance of the evidence.

Use S.P.A.U.T.S. before creating the rhetorical analysis essay outline!

rhetorical analysis essay outline sinners in the hands of an angry god

Speaker: As students read, help them to examine the speaker and his/her traits. Who is the speaker or author? What are some traits that describe the speaker? What is the speaker’s motivation?
Purpose : Usually, the author will state the purpose somewhere in the introduction and/or conclusion. The body paragraphs will support that purpose with examples throughout. At the end of the text, the author will reinforce his or her purpose and, most likely, challenge the audience in some way. By identifying the purpose, students will be much more successful in achieving rhetorical analysis!
Audience: Students also need to be sure WHO it is the author/speaker is writing for. No, the AUDIENCE is NOT the READER or EVERYONE. How many times have we heard this as teachers? Instead, we need to allow students to break down the text first and then think about the audience. What does this audience look like? What are their thoughts and/or actions? What does the speaker want the audience to accomplish? In identifying the audience, the students should be better able to pinpoint the purpose.
Universal Idea: To really go beyond the purpose of the rhetoric, students must connect to a higher idea. Why is this text important? Why is the text necessary? How is the rhetoric effective or ineffective? Why? Should the audience take action in some way beyond what the speaker is asking? *Encourage students to think about the significance of the rhetoric in connection to universal ideas/messages.
Tone: Ascertaining the actual tone of a piece of rhetoric is vital! Sometimes a speaker/writer comes off as quiet, frustrated, or lighthearted, when in fact, the tone is much more forceful or even the complete opposite. As you expose your students to satire and higher levels of rhetoric, it may be tough for students to identify the true emotions of the speaker. Help students to triangulate the actual tone in more specific, rather than vague, terms. For example, is the tone upset>irritated>frustrated>resentful>angry>infuriated>livid? Acknowledging tone is the first step, but having students locate evidence will help in supporting a specific tone!
Strategies: Knowing literary or rhetorical analysis terms helps students as they break down the rhetoric. You can encourage them to use a Rhetorical Appeals Chart to examine Logos, Pathos, and Ethos in a meaningful way, or they can always examine the diction (be sure to encourage specificity), figurative language, etc.
Logos- an appeal to the audience’s rational tho ught by using facts and statistics
Pathos- an appeal to the audience’s emotions through the use of emotional language
Ethos- an appeal to the audience through a belief in the speaker’s authority

Click below for a rhetorical analysis essay outline for “Sinners in the Hands of an Angry God!”

rhetorical analysis essay outline writing activities

2. Organize ideas in whatever way makes sense for individual students.

I prefer having students use an organizer of some sort. Most beginners struggle with making sense of rhetoric. Helping students organize their ideas will ultimately benefit them as they work to write their essays.

You can start by encouraging students to identify the purpose.
Then, help students to locate evidence that connects to the purpose.
Next, identify the type of evidence used.
After each piece of evidence, write down the annotations as well as more developed analysis with a connection to the overall purpose of the text.

*These ideas will aid students in the overall writing process!

16 Simple Steps for Teaching Essay Rhetorical Analysis Writing

3. Create a thesis based on the ANNOTATIONS & ORGANIZER.

Most students need a starting place for writing a thesis. Here are some thesis starters your students can use: (Make sure to focus on SPEAKER, TECHNIQUES, AUDIENCE, & PURPOSE for each thesis!)

Ex. _________________ uses _______________ and _____________ in order to __________________________________________________________________________.
Ex. Through the inclusion of ______________, _____________, and _________________, ___________________ works to ________________________________________________.
Ex. In order to ________________________________, _____________________incorporates _________________________ and ________________________________.

rhetorical analysis essay outline writing

4. Focus on a step-by-step process (at first) when teaching how to use the rhetorical analysis essay outline.

Like a basketball coach, you will need to practice basic skills with your students. Most come to us from elementary or middle school with a set of skills that mirror process writing; however, rhetorical analysis requires much more of students. Instead of using a piece of evidence and explaining it, students need to consistently practice analysis of how the device works to contribute to the purpose. Here is a Rhetorical Analysis Essay Outline that may help your students who struggle through writing their VERY FIRST rhetorical analysis paper!

rhetorical analysis essay outline organizers

Topic Sentence- Students may struggle with this part because they need to be shown that their ideas need to connect throughout the entire rhetorical analysis in order to make sense.
Evidence- Students will need to use evidence to support their ideas; you may need to model what this looks like.
Analysis- After providing evidence, we need to PRACTICE showing our students how to connect to the purpose through analysis. The BEST way to do this is continual practice through every type of rhetoric 🙂 Check out the rhetorical analysis essay texts below!
REPEAT with MORE Evidence and Analysis-This is the part where we might lose students. They may have been told that a paragraph is 3-5 sentences (which teacher told them this, I do not know). They might also have been taught to use ONE example, but we are asking them to write with TWO or MORE….I know, I get funny looks from my students too!
Ending Sentence-For this last part, I model how to connect to the topic sentence without sounding redundant. You could also have students discuss the effectiveness of the strategy concerning the overall purpose. This last part should reinforce the device and message. So many students don’t realize that this part is necessary, because it leads to clarity as well as coherency.

rhetorical analysis essay outline activities

5. Use the rhetorical analysis essay outline to write the essay.

When it comes to putting it down on paper, why not have students use the outline? That is what it is there for. So often, my students think it is absolutely crazy that they can copy and paste their ideas from their own annotations, organizers, and outlines to use in their rhetorical analysis papers. The body paragraph outline reflects what is required. The only paragraphs left are the introduction and conclusion.

Introduction in the rhetorical analysis essay outline:

The introduction is simply meant to introduce the speaker, the text title (students forget the title all of the time), the context (encourage students to do a bit of research), the audience, the purpose, and strategies/techniques. It does not need to have a hook with a question or description. I think we have all read these, and I believe we can all agree that a traditional hook is unnecessary for a rhetorical analysis 🙂

Conclusion in the rhetorical analysis essay outline:

The conclusion in a rhetorical analysis essay outline is usually an afterthought for most students. Many simply restate the thesis or summarize the text. To be fair, this is what students have been taught throughout the years. Instead, let’s have students answer the following questions:

How are the strategies, techniques, or appeals effective?
Why is this rhetoric important or unimportant?
What makes this text a valuable (or useless) part of academia, culture, or society as a whole?

More than anything, students need constant practice with a rhetorical analysis essay outline. Like developing in a specific sport, becoming a better baker, or learning how to interview for a job, continuous exposure to specific skills, even the most basic of skills, is vital! We need to model, practice, and let students struggle and grow; then, they need to rinse and repeat the process over and over.

Check out the examples in my RHETORICAL ANALYSIS PACKS , most of which include a rhetorical analysis essay outline!

Sinners in the Hands of an Angry God
Ain’t I A Woman?
A Modest Proposal
Declaration of Sentiments
Declaration of Independence
Gettysburg Address

Afterward, they effectively analyze rhetoric, and the real fun begins…they can begin writing their own rhetoric, using a rhetorical analysis essay outline…of course!

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Your chance of acceptance, your chancing factors, extracurriculars, tips for writing a rhetorical analysis essay.

In my English class, we have to write a rhetorical analysis essay and I've never done one before. Can anyone give me some advice on how to break down the text and write a solid essay? I'd really appreciate any help you guys can provide!

First and foremost, it's essential to understand the basic structure of a rhetorical analysis essay and what the purpose is. Rhetorical analysis essays focus on examining how authors use rhetorical strategies (such as ethos, pathos, and logos) to create an argument or persuade the audience. Here is a step-by-step guide to help you write an effective rhetorical analysis essay:

1. Carefully read the text: Begin by reading the text multiple times to ensure that you thoroughly understand the arguments presented. Note down significant points, arguments, and claims made by the author.

2. Identify rhetorical strategies: After understanding the text, identify the rhetorical strategies the author uses, such as ethos (credibility), pathos (emotional appeal), and logos (logical appeal). Keep in mind that authors may also utilize rhetorical devices like analogy, juxtaposition, or irony to enrich their arguments.

3. Analyze the effectiveness of rhetorical strategies: Examine how the rhetorical strategies contribute to the author's purpose and message. Assess the effectiveness of each strategy and how they work in tandem to persuade the audience.

4. Develop a thesis statement: Craft a concise and clear thesis statement that outlines your essay's focus. The thesis should articulate the author's purpose, the rhetorical strategies used, and your analysis of their effectiveness.

5. Outline your essay: Create an outline that includes the introduction, main points supporting your thesis, and a conclusion. This will help you organize your thoughts and ensure a coherent flow throughout the essay.

6. Write the introduction: In the introduction, provide some background on the text and author, as well as a brief summary of the main arguments. Your thesis statement should be placed at the end of the introduction.

7. Develop body paragraphs: Each body paragraph should focus on one rhetorical strategy, starting with a topic sentence that connects to your thesis statement. Then, provide evidence from the text to illustrate the strategy's use and effectiveness. Finally, analyze how the strategy contributes to the author's overall message and purpose.

8. Write the conclusion: Summarize your analysis, restate your thesis, and discuss the implications or significance of your findings. Avoid introducing new ideas in this section.

9. Revise and edit: Make sure to proofread your essay and revise any errors in grammar, syntax, or punctuation. Also, check for clarity, coherence, and cohesion throughout the essay.

By following these steps and maintaining a clear focus on the author's rhetorical strategies, you'll be well on your way to crafting a strong rhetorical analysis essay. Good luck!

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Outline for a Rhetorical Analysis

This essay about the art of rhetoric and rhetorical analysis emphasizes their crucial roles in navigating modern communication. It explores the intricate fusion of language and influence, delving into the nuances of human expression. By unraveling layers of meaning and scrutinizing rhetorical situations, it unveils the strategic maneuvers authors use to sway opinions. The essay highlights the significance of rhetorical devices and structural elements in shaping persuasive discourse, extending its purview to encompass broader public discourse. Ultimately, it underscores the practical utility of rhetorical analysis in enhancing communicative prowess for navigating contemporary complexities.

How it works

Amidst the cacophony of contemporary communication, the art of rhetoric serves as a guiding light, illuminating the path to clarity and persuasion. It transcends mere interpretation of words, delving into the intricate fusion of language and influence. Join me on a voyage through the rich tapestry of rhetorical exploration, where we intertwine strands of insight, inquiry, and innovation.

Rhetorical analysis isn’t confined to scholarly pursuits; it’s a dynamic engagement with the subtleties of human expression. It beckons forth a discerning gaze, an inquisitive mind, and an unyielding commitment to unraveling the layers of meaning woven within texts.

At its core, rhetorical analysis urges us to delve beneath the surface of language, delving into the nuanced interplay of intent, audience, and context.

At the nucleus of rhetorical analysis resides the notion of the rhetorical situation – a complex interweaving of speaker, audience, message, and context. Each text inhabits a unique rhetorical ecosystem, molded by the author’s aims, the audience’s expectations, and the cultural zeitgeist. By scrutinizing the rhetorical situation, analysts unveil the strategic maneuvers wielded by authors to sway hearts and minds.

Central to the art of rhetorical analysis is the study of rhetorical devices – the tools of persuasion that imbue language with potency and resonance. From the timeless trifecta of ethos, pathos, and logos to the more enigmatic realms of chiasmus, metonymy, and synecdoche, these devices wield profound influence over our perceptions and convictions. Through meticulous analysis, we untangle the rhetorical tapestry spun by authors, tracing the contours of their arguments and the emotive currents that animate their words.

Furthermore, rhetorical analysis beckons us to peer beyond the superficiality of texts and explore the structural foundations that shape their significance. The arrangement of ideas, the cadence of sentences, the rhythm of rhetoric – these elements comprise the framework upon which persuasive discourse is erected. By dissecting these structural components, we glean insights into the rhetorical strategies employed by authors and the impact they aspire to evoke in their audience.

However, the purview of rhetorical analysis transcends the boundaries of individual texts. It encompasses the broader panorama of public discourse – from the grandeur of political oration to the subtle allure of advertising prose. By scrutinizing these broader patterns and trends, analysts discern the shifting tides of cultural values, political ideologies, and social norms. In doing so, they elucidate how rhetoric molds our collective consciousness and shapes the contours of our shared reality.

Moreover, rhetorical analysis serves as a practical toolkit for enhancing our own communicative prowess. By studying the techniques wielded by master rhetoricians, we refine our abilities to craft compelling arguments, deliver persuasive speeches, and engage in meaningful dialogue. In a world inundated with competing narratives and discordant voices, the adeptness to wield rhetoric effectively isn’t merely an academic pursuit – it’s an indispensable skill for navigating the complexities of contemporary life.

In summary, rhetorical analysis is a journey of revelation – an odyssey into the heart of human communication and persuasion. It impels us to peer beyond the veneer of words and explore the deeper currents of meaning coursing beneath. By mastering the art of rhetorical analysis, we equip ourselves to traverse the turbulent seas of discourse with lucidity, discernment, and conviction.

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Free Rhetorical Analysis Generator

🌟 Intro to Rhetorical Analysis Generator

🤔 What Is Rhetorical Analysis?

✒️ Components of Rhetorical Analysis
💎 SOAPSTone Template
📝 Essay Outline

🔗 References

🌟 intro to our free rhetorical analysis generator.

Rhetoric refers to the use of language that helps motivate, persuade, or get the point across to a particular audience. Rhetorical analysis involves studying and evaluating strategies authors and speakers use to achieve this goal. Here, you’ll learn how to use our generator, the fundamentals of rhetorical analysis, and the components of making a great essay.

Rhetorical Analysis Generator & Reasons to Try

It’s not always easy to conduct a good rhetorical analysis. Many students struggle with it and may even fail to submit their work on time. Our rhetorical analysis generator is here to help! It has many benefits that help you finish your work faster:

A rhetorical analysis evaluates a piece of work and the effectiveness with which the author communicated their ideas. It can be anything from a novel to a movie, as long as the work wants to persuade an audience. In other words, instead of discussing the events of The Count of Monte Cristo, you explore what Alexander Dumas wanted to tell his readers, which techniques were used to convey the message, and whether it was successful.

11 Common Rhetorical Analysis Devices

Look at some of the most popular rhetorical devices you can encounter in written and spoken works. They will help you better identify and include them in your upcoming papers.

✒️ Rhetorical Analysis Components & Their Meaning

You can come across several rhetorical analysis methods in your professional and academic work. The rhetorical triangle is the most popular type but has several lesser-known subtypes.

Its components are:

Ethos . This notion appeals to the author or speaker’s credibility. It evaluates a person’s authority on a subject and tells the audience if they should trust them.
Pathos . Pathos deals with emotions. It’s the most effective rhetorical device as it’s used to connect the speaker and the audience. For example, an emotional appeal over the use of facts is a tell-tale sign of propaganda.
Logos . This element backs up a claim with logical and reasonable substance. Through it, the author provides factual evidence that supports their claims.
Kairos . When a writer or a speaker addresses a particular time and place, they use kairos to provide specific context. To illustrate, an address concerning the First Amendment is most effective during a political debate.
Stasis . The final segment of the rhetorical analysis lets people view arguments from different perspectives. This adds an impact and makes the audience more likely to side with the writer or speaker.

💎 Rhetorical Analysis: SOAPSTone Template

Like any analysis, evaluating a person’s rhetorical capabilities requires structure. Without it, you may fail to address some aspects of the work, making your paper incomplete. You can make this process easier with the SOAPSTone template and its components:

📝 Rhetorical Analysis Essay Outline

Writing any type of essay requires structure and cohesion. While you may have encountered this structure before, it’s worth to remember the basics. A rhetorical analysis paper outline requires the following elements:

Introduction . This paragraph introduces the text and its author. Some experts recommend including a summary of the work and elements of the SOAPStone analysis you uncovered. Explain why you’re conducting the research and give a clear thesis statement.
Body . The section where you present arguments about work and what makes it persuasive. Here you discuss the methods, strategies, and rhetorical and literary devices the author used to convey their message.
Conclusion . The conclusive paragraph ties your analysis together by driving home the main arguments provided in its body. It can also explain how the work impacted society or its target audience.

3 Good Rhetorical Analysis Essay Examples

Here we have picked up some samples with rhetorical analysis of different types of works that can inspire you to create own impressive essay.

Rhetorical Analysis of Paypal’s Online Payments Commercial Essay . PayPal's online payments commercial employs a potent blend of rhetorical techniques to convey its message effectively. The ad emotionally connects with the audience through vibrant visuals, stirring music, and relatable scenarios. Using real-life situations highlights the convenience and security of PayPal's services, appealing to the ethos and building trust. Additionally, persuasive language and a call to action stimulate a sense of urgency, prompting viewers to adopt PayPal as their preferred online payment platform. By artfully combining pathos, ethos, and logos, the commercial convinces viewers that PayPal is a trustworthy and convenient decision for their online payment requirements.
“The Myth of Multitasking” by Rosen: Rhetorical Analysis Essay . The author adeptly employs rhetorical strategies to debunk the notion of multitasking. Christine Rosen dismantles the prevalent belief in multitasking efficiency through persuasive arguments and compelling evidence, revealing its detrimental effects on productivity and cognitive abilities. Her skillful use of logic and reasoning challenges readers to question their habits and consider a more focused approach to tasks. By strategically dismantling this cultural trend, Rosen urges her audience to reassess their attitudes toward multitasking, prompting a profound reevaluation of its impact on daily life and productivity.
A Rhetorical Analysis: “Chevy Commercial 2014” Essay . Chevy Commercial from 2014 is a captivating piece of rhetoric that skillfully employs various persuasive techniques to resonate with its audience. The ad establishes an immediate connection with viewers through emotional storytelling. The commercial artfully weaves heartwarming scenes of people's lives, accompanied by an inspiring soundtrack, evoking a sense of nostalgia and relatability. Ethos is reinforced by showcasing real people in everyday situations, enhancing the credibility of Chevy's brand positioning as an integral part of consumers' lives. Furthermore, logos strategically highlights the car's innovative features and performance. By aligning Chevy with moments of happiness and adventure, the ad compels viewers to consider Chevy as the vehicle that can accompany them on their life journeys.

We hope our tool will facilitate your rhetorical analysis of books, commercials, or speeches, so you'll create a unique essay! Besides, you may try our hook generator to engage the audience to read your paper from the beginning.

📌 Rhetorical Analysis Generator – FAQ

Updated: Oct 25th, 2023

Rhetorical Analysis – Jessica Allee, University of Arkansas
How To Write a Rhetorical Analysis in 8 Simple Steps – Jennifer Herrity, Indeed
Rhetorical Analysis – Blinn College District
What Is a Rhetorical Device? Definition, List, Examples – Jeffrey Somers, ThoughtCo
Rhetorical Analysis Essay: Formatting – Brandon Everett, California State University, East Bay
What is Rhetorical Analysis? – Melanie Gagich & Emilie Zickel, PressBooks
SOAPStone Graphic Organizer for Rhetorical Analysis – Sacramento City Unified School District
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This page contains a free tool for conducting rhetorical analysis. It is user-friendly, accurate, and fast. You can customize the analysis according to your text type and context. Also, we have prepared a guide where you can find out about literary devices, components of rhetorical analysis, and the structure of your future essay.

9.5 Writing Process: Thinking Critically about Rhetoric

Learning outcomes.

By the end of this section, you will be able to:

Develop a rhetorical analysis through multiple drafts.
Identify and analyze rhetorical strategies in a rhetorical analysis.
Demonstrate flexible strategies for generating ideas, drafting, reviewing, collaborating, revising, rewriting, and editing.
Give and act on productive feedback for works in progress.

The ability to think critically about rhetoric is a skill you will use in many of your classes, in your work, and in your life to gain insight from the way a text is written and organized. You will often be asked to explain or to express an opinion about what someone else has communicated and how that person has done so, especially if you take an active interest in politics and government. Like Eliana Evans in the previous section, you will develop similar analyses of written works to help others understand how a writer or speaker may be trying to reach them.

Summary of Assignment: Rhetorical Analysis

The assignment is to write a rhetorical analysis of a piece of persuasive writing. It can be an editorial, a movie or book review, an essay, a chapter in a book, or a letter to the editor. For your rhetorical analysis, you will need to consider the rhetorical situation—subject, author, purpose, context, audience, and culture—and the strategies the author uses in creating the argument. Back up all your claims with evidence from the text. In preparing your analysis, consider these questions:

What is the subject? Be sure to distinguish what the piece is about.
Who is the writer, and what do you know about them? Be sure you know whether the writer is considered objective or has a particular agenda.
Who are the readers? What do you know or what can you find out about them as the particular audience to be addressed at this moment?
What is the purpose or aim of this work? What does the author hope to achieve?
What are the time/space/place considerations and influences of the writer? What can you know about the writer and the full context in which they are writing?
What specific techniques has the writer used to make their points? Are these techniques successful, unsuccessful, or questionable?

For this assignment, read the following opinion piece by Octavio Peterson, printed in his local newspaper. You may choose it as the text you will analyze, continuing the analysis on your own, or you may refer to it as a sample as you work on another text of your choosing. Your instructor may suggest presidential or other political speeches, which make good subjects for rhetorical analysis.

When you have read the piece by Peterson advocating for the need to continue teaching foreign languages in schools, reflect carefully on the impact the letter has had on you. You are not expected to agree or disagree with it. Instead, focus on the rhetoric—the way Peterson uses language to make his point and convince you of the validity of his argument.

Another Lens. Consider presenting your rhetorical analysis in a multimodal format. Use a blogging site or platform such as WordPress or Tumblr to explore the blogging genre, which includes video clips, images, hyperlinks, and other media to further your discussion. Because this genre is less formal than written text, your tone can be conversational. However, you still will be required to provide the same kind of analysis that you would in a traditional essay. The same materials will be at your disposal for making appeals to persuade your readers. Rhetorical analysis in a blog may be a new forum for the exchange of ideas that retains the basics of more formal communication. When you have completed your work, share it with a small group or the rest of the class. See Multimodal and Online Writing: Creative Interaction between Text and Image for more about creating a multimodal composition.

Quick Launch: Start with a Thesis Statement

After you have read this opinion piece, or another of your choice, several times and have a clear understanding of it as a piece of rhetoric, consider whether the writer has succeeded in being persuasive. You might find that in some ways they have and in others they have not. Then, with a clear understanding of your purpose—to analyze how the writer seeks to persuade—you can start framing a thesis statement : a declarative sentence that states the topic, the angle you are taking, and the aspects of the topic the rest of the paper will support.

Complete the following sentence frames as you prepare to start:

The subject of my rhetorical analysis is ________.
My goal is to ________, not necessarily to ________.
The writer’s main point is ________.
I believe the writer has succeeded (or not) because ________.
I believe the writer has succeeded in ________ (name the part or parts) but not in ________ (name the part or parts).
The writer’s strongest (or weakest) point is ________, which they present by ________.

Drafting: Text Evidence and Analysis of Effect

As you begin to draft your rhetorical analysis, remember that you are giving your opinion on the author’s use of language. For example, Peterson has made a decision about the teaching of foreign languages, something readers of the newspaper might have different views on. In other words, there is room for debate and persuasion.

The context of the situation in which Peterson finds himself may well be more complex than he discusses. In the same way, the context of the piece you choose to analyze may also be more complex. For example, perhaps Greendale is facing an economic crisis and must pare its budget for educational spending and public works. It’s also possible that elected officials have made budget cuts for education a part of their platform or that school buildings have been found obsolete for safety measures. On the other hand, maybe a foreign company will come to town only if more Spanish speakers can be found locally. These factors would play a part in a real situation, and rhetoric would reflect that. If applicable, consider such possibilities regarding the subject of your analysis. Here, however, these factors are unknown and thus do not enter into the analysis.

Introduction

One effective way to begin a rhetorical analysis is by using an anecdote, as Eliana Evans has done. For a rhetorical analysis of the opinion piece, a writer might consider an anecdote about a person who was in a situation in which knowing another language was important or not important. If they begin with an anecdote, the next part of the introduction should contain the following information:

Author’s name and position, or other qualification to establish ethos
Title of work and genre
Author’s thesis statement or stance taken (“Peterson argues that . . .”)
Brief introductory explanation of how the author develops and supports the thesis or stance
If relevant, a brief summary of context and culture

Once the context and situation for the analysis are clear, move directly to your thesis statement. In this case, your thesis statement will be your opinion of how successful the author has been in achieving the established goal through the use of rhetorical strategies. Read the sentences in Table 9.1 , and decide which would make the best thesis statement. Explain your reasoning in the right-hand column of this or a similar chart.

The introductory paragraph or paragraphs should serve to move the reader into the body of the analysis and signal what will follow.

Your next step is to start supporting your thesis statement—that is, how Octavio Peterson, or the writer of your choice, does or does not succeed in persuading readers. To accomplish this purpose, you need to look closely at the rhetorical strategies the writer uses.

First, list the rhetorical strategies you notice while reading the text, and note where they appear. Keep in mind that you do not need to include every strategy the text contains, only those essential ones that emphasize or support the central argument and those that may seem fallacious. You may add other strategies as well. The first example in Table 9.2 has been filled in.

When you have completed your list, consider how to structure your analysis. You will have to decide which of the writer’s statements are most effective. The strongest point would be a good place to begin; conversely, you could begin with the writer’s weakest point if that suits your purposes better. The most obvious organizational structure is one of the following:

Go through the composition paragraph by paragraph and analyze its rhetorical content, focusing on the strategies that support the writer’s thesis statement.
Address key rhetorical strategies individually, and show how the author has used them.

As you read the next few paragraphs, consult Table 9.3 for a visual plan of your rhetorical analysis. Your first body paragraph is the first of the analytical paragraphs. Here, too, you have options for organizing. You might begin by stating the writer’s strongest point. For example, you could emphasize that Peterson appeals to ethos by speaking personally to readers as fellow citizens and providing his credentials to establish credibility as someone trustworthy with their interests at heart.

Following this point, your next one can focus, for instance, on Peterson’s view that cutting foreign language instruction is a danger to the education of Greendale’s children. The points that follow support this argument, and you can track his rhetoric as he does so.

You may then use the second or third body paragraph, connected by a transition, to discuss Peterson’s appeal to logos. One possible transition might read, “To back up his assertion that omitting foreign languages is detrimental to education, Peterson provides examples and statistics.” Locate examples and quotes from the text as needed. You can discuss how, in citing these statistics, Peterson uses logos as a key rhetorical strategy.

In another paragraph, focus on other rhetorical elements, such as parallelism, repetition, and rhetorical questions. Moreover, be sure to indicate whether the writer acknowledges counterclaims and whether they are accepted or ultimately rejected.

The question of other factors at work in Greendale regarding finances, or similar factors in another setting, may be useful to mention here if they exist. As you continue, however, keep returning to your list of rhetorical strategies and explaining them. Even if some appear less important, they should be noted to show that you recognize how the writer is using language. You will likely have a minimum of four body paragraphs, but you may well have six or seven or even more, depending on the work you are analyzing.

In your final body paragraph, you might discuss the argument that Peterson, for example, has made by appealing to readers’ emotions. His calls for solidarity at the end of the letter provide a possible solution to his concern that the foreign language curriculum “might vanish like a puff of smoke.”

Use Table 9.3 to organize your rhetorical analysis. Be sure that each paragraph has a topic sentence and that you use transitions to flow smoothly from one idea to the next.

As you conclude your essay, your own logic in discussing the writer’s argument will make it clear whether you have found their claims convincing. Your opinion, as framed in your conclusion, may restate your thesis statement in different words, or you may choose to reveal your thesis at this point. The real function of the conclusion is to confirm your evaluation and show that you understand the use of the language and the effectiveness of the argument.

In your analysis, note that objections could be raised because Peterson, for example, speaks only for himself. You may speculate about whether the next edition of the newspaper will feature an opposing opinion piece from someone who disagrees. However, it is not necessary to provide answers to questions you raise here. Your conclusion should summarize briefly how the writer has made, or failed to make, a forceful argument that may require further debate.

For more guidance on writing a rhetorical analysis, visit the Illinois Writers Workshop website or watch this tutorial .

Peer Review: Guidelines toward Revision and the “Golden Rule”

Now that you have a working draft, your next step is to engage in peer review, an important part of the writing process. Often, others can identify things you have missed or can ask you to clarify statements that may be clear to you but not to others. For your peer review, follow these steps and make use of Table 9.4 .

Quickly skim through your peer’s rhetorical analysis draft once, and then ask yourself, What is the main point or argument of my peer’s work?
Highlight, underline, or otherwise make note of statements or instances in the paper where you think your peer has made their main point.
Look at the draft again, this time reading it closely.
Ask yourself the following questions, and comment on the peer review sheet as shown.

The Golden Rule

An important part of the peer review process is to keep in mind the familiar wisdom of the “Golden Rule”: treat others as you would have them treat you. This foundational approach to human relations extends to commenting on others’ work. Like your peers, you are in the same situation of needing opinion and guidance. Whatever you have written will seem satisfactory or better to you because you have written it and know what you mean to say.

However, your peers have the advantage of distance from the work you have written and can see it through their own eyes. Likewise, if you approach your peer’s work fairly and free of personal bias, you’re likely to be more constructive in finding parts of their writing that need revision. Most important, though, is to make suggestions tactfully and considerately, in the spirit of helping, not degrading someone’s work. You and your peers may be reluctant to share your work, but if everyone approaches the review process with these ideas in mind, everyone will benefit from the opportunity to provide and act on sincerely offered suggestions.

Revising: Staying Open to Feedback and Working with It

Once the peer review process is complete, your next step is to revise the first draft by incorporating suggestions and making changes on your own. Consider some of these potential issues when incorporating peers’ revisions and rethinking your own work.

Too much summarizing rather than analyzing
Too much informal language or an unintentional mix of casual and formal language
Too few, too many, or inappropriate transitions
Illogical or unclear sequence of information
Insufficient evidence to support main ideas effectively
Too many generalities rather than specific facts, maybe from trying to do too much in too little time

In any case, revising a draft is a necessary step to produce a final work. Rarely will even a professional writer arrive at the best point in a single draft. In other words, it’s seldom a problem if your first draft needs refocusing. However, it may become a problem if you don’t address it. The best way to shape a wandering piece of writing is to return to it, reread it, slow it down, take it apart, and build it back up again. Approach first-draft writing for what it is: a warm-up or rehearsal for a final performance.

Suggestions for Revising

When revising, be sure your thesis statement is clear and fulfills your purpose. Verify that you have abundant supporting evidence and that details are consistently on topic and relevant to your position. Just before arriving at the conclusion, be sure you have prepared a logical ending. The concluding statement should be strong and should not present any new points. Rather, it should grow out of what has already been said and return, in some degree, to the thesis statement. In the example of Octavio Peterson, his purpose was to persuade readers that teaching foreign languages in schools in Greendale should continue; therefore, the conclusion can confirm that Peterson achieved, did not achieve, or partially achieved his aim.

When revising, make sure the larger elements of the piece are as you want them to be before you revise individual sentences and make smaller changes. If you make small changes first, they might not fit well with the big picture later on.

One approach to big-picture revising is to check the organization as you move from paragraph to paragraph. You can list each paragraph and check that its content relates to the purpose and thesis statement. Each paragraph should have one main point and be self-contained in showing how the rhetorical devices used in the text strengthen (or fail to strengthen) the argument and the writer’s ability to persuade. Be sure your paragraphs flow logically from one to the other without distracting gaps or inconsistencies.

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Access for free at https://openstax.org/books/writing-guide/pages/1-unit-introduction

Authors: Michelle Bachelor Robinson, Maria Jerskey, featuring Toby Fulwiler
Publisher/website: OpenStax
Book title: Writing Guide with Handbook
Publication date: Dec 21, 2021
Location: Houston, Texas
Book URL: https://openstax.org/books/writing-guide/pages/1-unit-introduction
Section URL: https://openstax.org/books/writing-guide/pages/9-5-writing-process-thinking-critically-about-rhetoric

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Simple Rhetorical Analysis Outline to get you Started
Rhetorical Analysis Essay
How to Write a Rhetorical Analysis Essay: 10 Techniques
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Sample Rhetorical Analysis Essay
BASIC OUTLINE of your rhetorical analysis essay

VIDEO

ENGL 101 Rhetorical Analysis PT 1
Rhetorical Analysis Lecture: Outline Thesis Intro
Essay: Your Rhetorical Self
Rhetorical Analysis Outline
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COMMENTS

How to Write a Rhetorical Analysis
Revised on July 23, 2023. A rhetorical analysis is a type of essay that looks at a text in terms of rhetoric. This means it is less concerned with what the author is saying than with how they say it: their goals, techniques, and appeals to the audience. A rhetorical analysis is structured similarly to other essays: an introduction presenting ...
Rhetorical Analysis Essay Outline With Templates & Tips
Steps to Create a Rhetorical Analysis Essay Outline. Creating an essay outline is a crucial step in organizing your thoughts and effectively analyzing a piece of rhetoric. Here are the steps to craft an outline for a rhetorical analysis essay: Step 1 - Choose the Text. Select the piece of rhetoric that you will be analyzing.
How to Write a Rhetorical Analysis: 6 Steps and an Outline for Your
The following outline is an example of how you could structure your rhetorical analysis. To make planning your essay easier, you can simply copy and paste this outline and fill it in with your thesis and supporting examples. Introduction. Describe the 4 elements of rhetoric (audience, purpose, medium, and context), and identify the speaker
How to Write a Rhetorical Analysis Essay-Examples & Template
Rhetorical appeal #2: Pathos. The purpose of Pathos-driven rhetoric is to appeal to the reader's emotions. A common example of pathos as a rhetorical means is adverts by charities that try to make you donate money to a "good cause". To evoke the intended emotions in the reader, an author may use passionate language, tell personal stories ...
How to Write a Great Rhetorical Analysis Essay: With Examples
A rhetorical analysis essay analyzes how a text uses different elements to make an argument about that work. In this article, learn how to write a strong rhetorical analysis essay. ProWritingAid Blog. ... This outline example gives you a general idea of a format to follow, but there will likely be specific requests about layout and content in ...
How to write an effective outline for a rhetorical essay
Example. Step I. Identify the Topic. The first step in creating an outline for a rhetorical essay is to identify the topic you will be writing on, this would involve clearly stating what the essay is going to be about. This would provide your reader with an idea of what to expect in the essay. If you are writing an essay on a speech by a famous ...
PDF How to Write a RHETORICAL ANALYSIS ESSAY Step 1: Full Comprehension of
Like all other essays, your rhetorical analysis essay will have an introduction with a thesis, body paragraphs, and a conclusion. WRITE - write your essay. Asher AP ELAC Name: _____ Step 3: Organizing and Writing Your Essay: ... Create an OUTLINE for a possible essay on this chapter that includes the following: Thesis (should answer the ...
How to Write a Rhetorical Analysis Essay in 6 Steps
How to Write a Rhetorical Analysis Essay in 6 Steps. Written by MasterClass. Last updated: Sep 2, 2021 • 3 min read. In a rhetorical analysis essay, a writer will examine the rhetoric and style of another author's work. If you want to write your own rhetorical analysis essay, we've developed a step-by-step guide to lead you through the ...
How to write a rhetorical analysis [4 steps]
To write a rhetorical analysis, you need to follow the steps below: Step 1: Plan and prepare. With a rhetorical analysis, you don't choose concepts in advance and apply them to a specific text or piece of content. Rather, you'll have to analyze the text to identify the separate components and plan and prepare your analysis accordingly.
Rhetorical Analysis
Rhetorical Analysis. Rhetoric is the study of how writers and speakers use words to influence an audience. A rhetorical analysis is an essay that breaks a work of non-fiction into parts and then explains how the parts work together to create a certain effect—whether to persuade, entertain or inform. You can also conduct a rhetorical analysis ...
How to Write a Rhetorical Analysis
A rhetorical analysis essay is a type of essay where you examine how authors or speakers use words, phrases, and other techniques to influence or persuade their audience. This type of essay focuses on analyzing the strategies used by the writer or speaker to achieve their purpose, whether it's to inform, persuade, entertain, or provoke.
Rhetorical Analysis Essay Outline
In a rhetorical analysis essay format, you may pull out visual points from a video or an interview the author had that ended up in tears as examples and supporting evidence. Identifying these points in the outline can save you time during your writing process. Finally, logos leans into the logical appeals of the audience - similar to how you ...
Rhetorical Analysis Essay Outline
A rhetorical analysis essay uses the traditional essay outline to arrange its content. According to the standard outline, an essay is divided into three sections and five paragraphs. Outlining an essay falls under the planning phase. Experts suggest before you jump on to the writing process, plan out your essay.
Sample Rhetorical Analysis Outline To Get You Started
One of the most commonly used rhetorical analysis strategies is where the writer provides examples to illustrate a larger point in detail. To make a point, there should be a clear relationship between the examples and the point you make. 5. Compare and Contrast. This rhetorical strategy looks for similarities and differences.
An Easy Rhetorical Analysis Essay Outline Guide For You
The Body of your rhetorical outline is the most changeable part of the rhetorical analysis essay template. You can make a convincing argument in as little as 500 words. Or you may need more space. Don't confuse being wordy with being 'smart' or 'effective'- try to use as few words as you need to be concise and clear.
Rhetorical Analysis Essay Outline: Examples & Strategies
📑 Rhetorical Analysis Essay Example Outline & Template . To make the writing process even easier for you, we will show you what an outline for your essay can look like. As an example, we will outline a rhetorical analysis of MLK's I Have a Dream speech. We are going to structure it according to the appeals. Have a look:
How to Write a Rhetorical Analysis Essay: Outline, Steps, & Examples
The rhetorical analysis essay outline also fits this rule. Carefully go through all the notes you've made and mark the main points you want to include in your essay. Think about the evidence you have to support them. Along with the thesis statement, write it all down in a format of a list. When you are done with it, you may use it as a cheat ...
How to Write a Rhetorical Analysis Essay Step by Step
Learn what a rhetorical analysis essay is. Learn how to write a rhetorical analysis essay and get an example of a rhetorical analysis essay outline.
5 Strategic Steps When Using A Rhetorical Analysis Essay Outline
2. Organize ideas in whatever way makes sense for individual students. 3. Create a thesis based on the ANNOTATIONS & ORGANIZER. 4. Focus on a step-by-step process (at first) when teaching how to use the rhetorical analysis essay outline. 5. Use the rhetorical analysis essay outline to write the essay.
Tips for Writing a Rhetorical Analysis Essay?
The thesis should articulate the author's purpose, the rhetorical strategies used, and your analysis of their effectiveness. 5. Outline your essay: Create an outline that includes the introduction, main points supporting your thesis, and a conclusion. This will help you organize your thoughts and ensure a coherent flow throughout the essay. 6.
Outline for a Rhetorical Analysis
The essay highlights the significance of rhetorical devices and structural elements in shaping persuasive discourse, extending its purview to encompass broader public discourse. Ultimately, it underscores the practical utility of rhetorical analysis in enhancing communicative prowess for navigating contemporary complexities.
Free Rhetorical Analysis Generator + Guide & Examples
📝 Rhetorical Analysis Essay Outline Writing any type of essay requires structure and cohesion. While you may have encountered this structure before, it's worth to remember the basics. A rhetorical analysis paper outline requires the following elements: Introduction. This paragraph introduces the text and its author.
9.5 Writing Process: Thinking Critically about Rhetoric
It can be an editorial, a movie or book review, an essay, a chapter in a book, or a letter to the editor. For your rhetorical analysis, you will need to consider the rhetorical situation—subject, author, purpose, context, audience, and culture—and the strategies the author uses in creating the argument.