The Three Main Rhetorical Appeals

LOGOS ETHOS PATHOS

Appeals to reason Appeals to the writer’s Appeals to the emotions of

Base and structure behind paper’s character the reader
argument, how well they argue How credible the argument is Considering the audience

Is the thesis clear and specific? How qualified is the writer? What are they trying to make you
Are the sources credible? feel?
Is the argument organized How is the writer trying to elicit
properly with appropriate logic? the right emotions?

Data, statistics Credentials, expertise Looking for emotional

“Studies show that…” “As a doctor with 20 years of reactions
“Our country has the highest experience in research and “These abandoned dogs
income tax in the world.” the hospital…” need YOUR help…”