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Some means that can be useful in persuading others

  1. Citing facts to support your view, naming their source if the facts are likely to be doubted.

  2. Relating relevant incidents or experiences in which you or others have been involved. A vividly told experierice is memorable and con­vincing.

  3. Citing authorities who support your view. Brief direct quotations from the authority are impressive.

  4. Using humour and funny stories to hold the interest of your read­ers or listeners. (Be sure, however, that you don't drag in a joke simply to get a laugh. The funny story can illustrate your arguments in a mem­orable way.)

  5. Using associations to establish a link between things everyone likes (nice people, good feelings, etc.) and the point of view for which you are arguing, or vice versa.

  6. Making a direct appeal, once you have established your case, by expressing your conviction with sincerity or feeling.

  7. Appealing to emotions, if the subject is one you feel deeply about. Don't, however, let the emotion drown the thinking!