Reading and Writing - Writing a Position Paper

When we face an issue and are challenged to make a stand, it is necessary for us to support it with logical
arguments.

What is a position paper?

According to Fleming (2018), a position paper is one where an author chooses a side on a particular
topic and builds up a case for your opinion or position. Building up your case will entail the use of facts
and statistics to convince the readers that the author’s position on the matter is the best one.
As defined by Merriam- Webster, a position paper is a detailed report that recommends a course of
action on a particular issue.

Why are position papers written?

Position papers are written for the purpose of generating support regarding a particular stand/ idea
The fundamental goal of a position paper is not only to present your stand on an issue/idea but also to
determine how your stance is related to the arguments of others. (CSU, 2020)

Parts of a Position Paper

Introduction

a. Start with an introduction which presents the issue while grabbing the attention of readers.
b. Define the issues and discuss its background.
c. Provide a general statement of your position via your thesis statement.

Body

a. State your main arguments.

b. Provide sufficient evidence for each argument such as statistical data, interviews with experts,
and testimonies.
c. Provide counterarguments against the possible weaknesses of your arguments.

Conclusion
a. Restate your position and main arguments.
b. Suggest a course of action.
c. State what makes your position paper superior and more acceptable,
d. End with a powerful closing statement such as quotation, a challenge, or a question.

Structure of a Position Paper

The structure of a position paper is flexible, but it should generally follow a simple flow that clearly
conveys the problem and the position of the author(s).
A position paper should begin by clearly stating the problem and its relevance to the scientific
community or even to the society as a whole. It should then address the main position of the author.
 For example:

1. Background: For decades, the WHO has urged the adoption of a tax on unhealthy foods to
discourage the consumption of products that are harmful to our health.

2. Relevance: Sugar has been shown to have a negative impact on health and play a major role
in the rising obesity rates in America.

3. Position: The United States should adopt a tax on drinks with added sugar, to reduce the
consumption of sugar, and promote healthier eating habits.

The author should clearly list the common arguments and possible objections against this position. To continue
with our example:

1. Argument 1: A sugary drink tax that focuses on soda may not impact other products that
have an equally negative health impact such as fruit juice or candy.

2. Argument 2: A sugary drink tax is regressive and places a financial burden on the poorest
consumers.

A strong position paper acknowledges the validity of the counter-arguments and then puts forth reasons why
the author’s position is still the correct one. In our example paper, the author can address the
counterarguments in the next section like so:

1. Counterargument 1: It is true that a sugary drink tax would not impact all sources of added
sugar in the average American diet. However, it would still have a significant impact on a major
source of added sugar to achieve its goal of reducing overall sugar consumption.

2. Counterargument 2: All consumption taxes are regressive. A sugary drink tax would be most
effective accompanied by subsidies for healthy foods such as fruit and vegetables.

Finally, summarize your main points and re-state your position in your conclusion. All arguments in the paper
should be backed up by facts, data, and evidence, with proper citation attributed to your sources. In this way, a
position paper is no different from an ordinary research paper. If you wish, you can include a brief literature
review in your discussion of the background of the issue. While such a literature review is not essential, it can
make your paper stronger.

Choosing an Issue

1. The issue should be debatable. You cannot take any position if the topic is not debatable.
2. The issue should be current and relevant.
3. The issue should be written in a question form and answerable by yes or no.
4. The issue should be specific and manageable.
Ten Tips for Writing a Strong Position Paper

Now that we know what a position paper is, let us review some tips to write a great position paper.

1. Select a timely, relevant topic with two clear opposing sides.

2. Conduct thorough preliminary research and collect evidence to support arguments for and against your
position.

3. Identify your intended audience. You should tailor your tone dependingon who the paper is written for (the
public, other scientists, policy makers, etc.).

4. Clearly state your position on the topic.

5. List and refute the counter-arguments to your position.

6. Include supporting data and evidence to back up your argument.

7. Properly attribute your sources using correct citation.

8. Keep it simple! Position papers don’t need to go into excessive detail.Present your points clearly and briefly.

9. Each paragraph in the paper should discuss a single idea.

10. Have someone proofread your paper to ensure it reads well and looks professional.

A position paper can be a great way to expand your horizons and write a new type of research paper. While
position papers are unlike ordinary research papers, they still contribute valuable perspectives to the scientific
community. Use these ten tips to write an effective position paper!
ACTIVITY TIME!

Directions: What are the different issues in your school, community and country? Choose one issue that you
are interested in and choose your position. Write a one-to two-page position paper. Make sure to follow the
guidelines in making it.

(Write your own title)

Introduction: (In the introduction part you should capture the reader’s attention, define the issue given and
state your claim.)
______________________________________________________________________________________________________________________
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Body: (State three arguments then cite the evidence supporting your arguments)
______________________________________________________________________________________________________________________
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Conclusion: (This part includes restating your claim, summarizing reasons and explaining why your stand/
claim is worthy to read)
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______________________________________________________________________________________________________________________

The rubrics in the evaluation of your position paper is as follows:

Argumentation (quality of logic, evidence, and explanation) = 15%
Persuasion= 15%
Language= 10%
Organization= 10%
Mechanics (spelling,grammar and punctuation) =10%