Position Paper

Group 1
 is a Position Paper?

An essay that expresses a stand whether it

be on the affirmative or negative side of an
issue.
It is devoted to a discussion of one side of
an issue. It gives arguments that supports
the opinion of the writer which are based on
the facts collected.
 is a Position Paper?
A position paper is a document that
discusses a specific issue from
an empirical point of view. In other words,
it must be fact-based.
It states the issue in question, provides the
necessary theoretical/conceptual reasons
why the issue is important.
 is a Position Paper?

Its goal is to convince the audience that

the opinions raised underwent thorough
investigation and data collection and is
therefore valid.
 is a Position Paper?

What makes a position paper

challenging to write is that, since the
work aims at convincing readers to take
the author’s position, credible evidence
and supporting statements needs to be
 is a Position Paper?

A position paper can serve to transfer

knowledge and understanding of a
particular topic, provide information to
aid in making a decision, or present a
professional perspective.
 is a Position Paper?
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..
 When and Why a Position
Paper is needed

In politics and in the government, a

position paper is needed to explain
and implement a policy or a
procedure.
 When and Why a Position
Paper is needed

A position paper is needed to

clear any confusion about the
author’s side or position about an
issue.
 Elements
Of a
Position Paper
 This part of the paper
identifies an issue that is
Introduction being discussed by the
author emphasizing
his/her position about
the issue.
 Here, the topic is

Introduction introduced; the

background and history
of the issue is also
discussed.
 First, sketch the large
picture. This should be
done in a way which
Introduction
builds up to your thesis
sentence and which sets
out the position you are
going to argue.
 Do not broach the main
Introduction point of the opposition
view just yet.
 This part illustrates the
central argument which
Body can be presented
through a brief
description of the
argument.
 Details, points of view,
Body evidences are used to
support the claim.
 This part of your paper
is for unpacking and
Body
expanding the topic and
your position.
 Providing further background

information to that given in the

Body introduction should come first.

Use statistics, facts and

quotations to frame the issue and

its significance to the reader.

 It can be divided into these
sections;
• Background information
Body • Evidence supporting the
author’s position
• A discussion that addresses
and refutes arguments that
present both sides of the
issue
 This part restates the
main points, then
Conclusion
summarizes the
arguments made in the
paper and then provides
a call of action.
 Restate key points
which you feel are most
Conclusion pertinent and persuasive.
If possible, state how
you can solve the issue
or conflict.
Manifesto
 • A manifesto is a document publicly declaring
the position or program of its issuer.
• A manifesto advances a set of ideas, opinions,
or views, but it can also lay out a plan of action.
• It most often concerns art, literature, or politics.
• Manifestos are generally written in the name of
group sharing a common perspective, ideology,
or purpose, rather than in the name of a single
individual.
How to Write a Position Paper
1. Select a Position Paper Topic

 You must make sure that the issue is indeed

real and substantive. If there is intense
controversy and ambiguity around the
correct way forward, this is a good marker
for scouting position paper topics.
2. Conduct a preliminary research effort

 When it comes to preliminary research, a

position paper example on topics you’re
interested in can be a useful source. Other
banks of opinions can be found collected
altogether in newspaper letter sections.
3. Challenge your topic and Collect
supporting evidences

 In order to defend and maintain your stance

on the issue, you must be able to address the
criticism it comes under. Scouring the
internet for information is helpful, but
choose the best quality arguments and
information.
Tips on Writing a Position Paper
1. Writing a solid position paper requires a
broad understanding of a topic and its finest
details. Focus on the assumptions
underpinning your argument, and those on
the opposing side.
2. Sketching position paper outlines will save
you time in the long run as you have a plan
to work form.
3. Be sure to cite all sources consistently and
correctly; regardless of what citation style you
use, stick to it.
Example of a Position Paper