English for Academic and Professional Purposes

Quarter 2 – Module 9:
Writing A Position Paper

Lesson
Defining a Position Paper
1 and Its Features

Position Paper Defined

Position Paper is an essay that presents an opinion and make a claim about an issue which is
supported by arguments and evidences.

A position paper presents the writer’s stand or viewpoint on a particular issue. Writing a
position paper entails outlining arguments and proposing the course of action; by doing so ,
you are already taking part in a large debate. Quite often, the readings cover more than one
issue, and as a writer one must choose a particular area of focus. The central goal of writing a
position paper is not only to state and defend your position on the issue but also to show how
your stance relates to other positions. As we write the position paper we will continue to
practice skills such as articulating a thesis statement that contains an overall claim,
developing an argument with reasons and evidence, and using transitions and reader cues for
coherence.2

Purpose

The purpose of a position paper is to generate support on an issue. It describes the author’s
position on an issue and the rational for that position and, in the same way that a research
paper incorporates supportive evidence, is based on facts that provide a solid foundation for
the author’s argument. It is a critical examination of a position using facts and inductive
reasoning, which addresses both strengths and weaknesses of the author’s opinion.

On the other hand, the primary goal of a position paper is to declare a “position” on a certain
matter or an issue. Its secondary goal is to convice or persuade others to take that side of an
issue or matter.

Parts of a Position Paper

The classic position paper contains three main elements: An Introduction, which identifies the
issue that will be discussed and states the author’s position on that issue
Guidelines for Writing the Position Paper

1. Values Communicated

a. Logical Thinking process of using a rational, systematic series of steps based on

sound mathematical procedures and given statements to arrive at a conclusion

b. Objective expression of ideas expressing or dealing with facts or conditions as

perceive without distortion, personal feeling, prejudices interpretations

c. Balanced assignments of conflicting opinions use of language, shifting from the

opposing argument to supporting argument and expressing both the arguments and the
counter arguments

2. Modes of Reasoning

a. Inductive- Inductive reasoning derives a generalization from specific examples and

situations. Through an organized presentation of factual evidence and proofs, the reader is
convinced of the soundness of the arguments that lead to a well- founded general conclusion

b. Deductive-Deductive reasoning proceeds from a general statement that leads to

particular or specific inferences
3. Qualities of a Convincing Position Paper
a. Contains a clear proposition or statement that must be defended
b. Assesses conflicting opinions or opposing views on the issue.
c. Takes a firm stand on the issue
d. List arguments in an organized manner to defend the stand.
e. Presents factual evidence or proofs to support each argument.