Persuasive Essay Topics: 150+ Ideas For Students

In a persuasive essay, logic, facts, and a touch of emotion help you present a solid argument that makes people think. That said, choosing the right topic is key.

A strong topic makes the writing of the persuasive essay outline a breeze; on the other hand, if you settle for something dull or overly complex, you might find yourself hitting a brick wall. To help you avoid that, we've put together a list of over 150 persuasive essay topics for your next project.

And if you ever find yourself in a pickle, remember that DoMyEssay has your back. Our expert writers are ready to craft a paper that will leave readers thinking!

Persuasive Essay Topics By Grade Level

Your persuasive essay is not just for you. When writing one, consider your audience. A topic that excites an elementary school student might not interest a high schooler. Below, you’ll find the best persuasive essay topics for each grade level:

Persuasive Essay Topics for Elementary Students

Elementary students are just starting to explore persuasive writing. Here, the goal is to help kids learn how to build arguments and persuade others. Below are some of the best persuasive writing topics for kids:

1. Is It Important for Schools to Teach Financial Literacy at an Early Age?
2. Should Schools Have More Fun Persuasive Essay Topics for Writing Assignments?
3. Do Standardized Tests Accurately Measure Student Achievement?
4. Should Elementary Students Be Required to Complete Community Service Hours?
5. Do Physical Education Classes Help Students Perform Better in Other Subjects?
6. Should Schools Have a "No Homework" Policy for Younger Students?
7. Is It Fair to Give Rewards for Good Grades?
8. Should Schools Allow Cell Phones for Learning Purposes?
9. Is It Important for Public Schools to Offer a Foreign Language Course?
10. Do Students Learn Better in a Year-Round School System?

Persuasive Essay Topics for Middle School

By middle school, students are getting better at forming opinions and backing them up with facts. Choose topics that are debatable and relevant. A strong, engaging topic will lead to a great essay. Here are a few suggestions:

1. Do Public Schools Need More Physical Education Classes?
2. Should Students Be Allowed to Redesign Their Classrooms?
3. Does Wearing Uniforms Improve Student Engagement in Class?
4. Should Schools Allow Students to Take More Field Trips?
5. Are Standardized Tests a Fair Way to Measure Student Success?
6. Would Community Service Hours Help Elementary Students Learn Responsibility?
7. Should Students Have More Hands-On Science Experiments?
8. Is It Important to Teach Parenting Classes to Older Students?
9. Should Students Be Allowed to Use Cell Phones for Educational Purposes?
10. Is It Necessary to Teach Free Speech and Debate Skills in Elementary School?

Persuasive Essay Topics For 5th Grade

1. Should Schools Have Longer Recess Time?
2. Is It Fair for Schools to Ban Certain Snacks in Lunches?
3. Should Students Get a Day Off for Their Birthday?
4. Is It Better to Have PE Every Day Instead of Once a Week?
5. Should Schools Let Students Sit Wherever They Want in Class?
6. Is It a Good Idea to Have a Class Pet?
7. Should Kids Get Money for Doing Chores at Home?
8. Are Video Games a Good Way to Learn?
9. Should Students Be Able to Choose Their Own Seats?
10. Should Schools Have a No-Homework Policy?

6th Grade Persuasive Essay Topics

1. Should Schools Limit How Much Time Students Spend on Social Media?
2. Is It Fair That Some Boys’ Sports Teams Get More Funding Than Others?
3. Should Schools Ban Animal Testing in Science Experiments?
4. Is It a Good Idea for Kids to Have Their Own Social Media Accounts?
5. Should Schools Require Students to Participate in Team Sports?
6. Do Video Games Help or Hurt a Student’s Learning Ability?
7. Should Students Have More Say in Their School’s Dress Code?
8. Is It Better for Kids to Have a Job or Focus Only on School?
9. Should Schools Give More Rewards for Good Grades?
10. Should Students Be Allowed to Grade Their Teachers?

Persuasive Essay Topics for Grade 7

1. Should Schools Take Stronger Action to Help Stop Global Warming?
2. Is Social Media More Harmful or Helpful for Teenagers?
3. Should Schools Provide Healthier and More Affordable School Lunches?
4. Are Genetically Modified Foods Safe for People to Eat?
5. Should Schools Start Later to Help Students Get More Sleep?
6. Is It Fair to Give Students Homework Over the Weekend?
7. Should Middle Schools Have More Clubs and Extracurricular Activities?
8. Is It Important for Schools to Teach Students About Mental Health?
9. Should Students Have to Do Community Service to Graduate?
10. Are School Dress Codes Fair to All Students?

Persuasive Essay Topics for High School

High school students are preparing for college, so persuasive essays help sharpen their writing and debate skills. If you’re one of them, here are a few persuasive paper topics to get you started on your project:

1. Do Schools Have a Responsibility to Teach Students About Public Safety?
2. Should Genetically Modified Foods Be Clearly Labeled for Consumers?
3. Does Every School Rule Need to Be Voted on by Students?
4. Is Today’s Society Too Dependent on Technology?
5. Should High Schools Require Financial Literacy Classes for Graduation?
6. Do Schools Put Too Much Pressure on Students to Attend College?
7. Is It Fair to Require Students to Take Standardized Tests for College Admissions?
8. Should High School Students Be Allowed to Grade Their Teachers?
9. Is Online Learning as Effective as Traditional Classroom Learning?
10. Should There Be Stricter Consequences for Cyberbullying?

Persuasive Essay Topics for College Students

College essays demand strong research skills. Use these college level persuasive essay topics to demonstrate your ability to think critically:

1. Should All College Students Be Required to Take Financial Literacy Courses?
2. Is Remote Learning an Effective Replacement for In-Person College Classes?
3. Should Colleges Lower Tuition Costs to Make Higher Education More Accessible?
4. Is It Fair to Require College Students to Complete Unpaid Internships?
5. Should There Be Stricter Regulations on Student Loan Interest Rates?
6. Is It Ethical for Colleges to Monitor Students’ Online Activity?
7. Should There Be a Minimum GPA Requirement for Students to Participate in Sports?
8. Do Professors Give Too Much Homework in College?
9. Should College Admissions Be Based Solely on Academic Performance?
10. Should College Athletes Be Paid for Their Contribution to School Sports Programs?

Easy Persuasive Essay Topics

1. Should Students Be Allowed to Listen to Music While Studying?
2. Do Video Games Help Improve Problem-Solving Skills?
3. Should Kids Have a Say in What They Eat for Lunch at School?
4. Is It Fair for Teachers to Give Pop Quizzes?
5. Should Students Get More Free Time at School?
6. Are Group Projects a Good Way to Learn?
7. Should Everyone Be Required to Learn Basic First Aid?
8. Is It Better to Read a Book or Watch a Movie Adaptation?
9. Do Celebrities Have Too Much Influence on Teenagers?
10. Is It Better to Be an Early Bird or a Night Owl?

Fun Persuasive Essay Topics

1. Would It Be More Fun if Schools Had a “Bring Your Pet to Class” Day?
2. Should Students Have a Say in Creating Their Own Homework Assignments?
3. Are Video Games a Better Way to Learn Than Textbooks?
4. Should Everyone Get Their Birthday Off From School or Work?
5. Would Robots Make Better Teachers Than Humans?
6. Would a Three-Day Weekend Every Week Make People More Productive?
7. Would College Be More Useful If Students Could Create Their Own Majors?
8. Is It Time to Replace Traditional Voting With Online Elections?
9. Would Life Be More Fun if We Lived in Space?
10. Is It Fair That Dogs Get More Love Than Cats?

Persuasive Essay Topics by Category

Your persuasive essay can be about anything you find engaging or relatable. But if the topic you select doesn't, first of all, interest you, you probably won't be able to write an essay you'll be proud of. We've organized interesting persuasive argument topics by categories so it's easier for you to find something that matches your major or simply makes you stop and think.

Arts and Culture

Art shapes our world and reflects emotions. It allows for various great ideas for persuasive essays full of debates. Find your niche and make readers think:

1. Should Street Art Be Considered a Legitimate Form of Public Art?
2. Is Digital Art as Valuable as Traditional Paintings?
3. Should Famous Works of Art Be Returned to Their Countries of Origin?
4. Do Musicians Have a Responsibility to Create Socially Conscious Music?
5. Should Schools Spend More Money on Art and Music Programs?
6. Is Fashion More About Self-Expression or Social Status?
7. Should Controversial Books Ever Be Banned from Public Libraries?
8. Does Pop Culture Negatively Influence How People See Beauty?
9. Does Social Media Help or Harm the Fashion Industry?
10. Is Art Meant to Be Interpreted, or Should It Have a Clear Message?

Education

Education impacts how we think and solve problems. While school prepares us for the future, the system is not always perfect. This makes it an excellent topic for debate. These persuasive argument topics will make you rethink your own education:

1. Should Schools Offer More Classes on Real-World Skills Like Taxes and Job Interviews?
2. Is the Traditional Letter Grading System Outdated?
3. Should Students Have More Freedom to Design Their Own Curriculum?
4. Is It Time to Replace Standardized Tests with Project-Based Assessments?
5. Should Schools Implement Meditation or Mindfulness Sessions for Students?
6. Does Homework Actually Improve Learning, or Is It Just Busy Work?
7. Should Teachers Be Allowed to Express Their Political Views in Class?
8. Is It More Effective to Teach History Through Stories Rather Than Dates and Facts?
9. Should AI Tutors Be Used in Classrooms to Personalize Learning?
10. Are Schools Doing Enough to Teach Digital Literacy and Online Safety?

Ethics

Ethics explores the grey areas between right and wrong. These complex debates challenge assumptions and make us reconsider our beliefs. Here are some thought-provoking topics for persuasive essays:

1. Should Social Media Companies Be Held Responsible for Misinformation?
2. Should the Government Have the Right to Mandate Vaccinations?
3. Is It Ever Justifiable to Break the Law for a Greater Good?
4. What Are the Ethical Implications of Companies Using AI to Monitor Employees?
5. Should Free College Tuition Be Offered to All Students, Regardless of Income?
6. Do Social Media Platforms Have an Ethical Responsibility to Protect Users’ Mental Health?
7. Is It Ethical for Social Media Companies to Shadowban or Limit Certain Voices?
8. Should We Hold Artists Accountable for Problematic Views in Their Work?
9. Is It Ethical to Have Private Prisons?
10. Should Whistleblowers Be Protected Even If They Leak Classified Information?

Health

Health is personal, from diet to stress management. With so many opinions, health-related debates are endless. Explore these persuasive essay topics for adults:

1. Is It Ethical for Employers to Require Employees to Undergo Health Screenings?
2. Should Alternative Medicine Be Covered by Health Insurance?
3. Do Fitness Trackers and Smartwatches Actually Improve Health or Just Cause Anxiety?
4. Should Junk Food Come With Warning Labels Like Cigarettes?
5. Is It Time to Ban Cosmetic Procedures That Promote Unhealthy Beauty Standards?
6. Should Schools Be Required to Offer Mental Health Days for Students?
7. Are Processed Foods a Bigger Health Risk Than We Realize?
8. Are We Overmedicating Children for Behavioral Issues?
9. Should the Government Regulate Sugar Intake Like It Does with Alcohol and Tobacco?
10. Is It Safe for AI to Play a Bigger Role in Diagnosing and Treating Patients?

Technology

Technology influences everything, but at what cost? These persuasive essay ideas will help you argue the pros and cons of modern tech:

1. Is It Safe to Rely on Self-Driving Cars for Public Transportation?
2. Should Schools Replace Traditional Textbooks With Digital Learning Tools?
3. Is Virtual Reality Changing the Way We Experience the World for Better or Worse?
4. Should Governments Regulate How Much Time Kids Spend on Screens?
5. Is It Ethical for Social Media Platforms to Use Algorithms That Influence Public Opinion?
6. Should Smart Homes Be Standard in New Construction?
7. Is There a Point Where Automation Goes Too Far in the Workplace?
8. Should Internet Access Be Considered a Basic Human Right?
9. Are Digital Assistants Like Alexa and Siri Listening More Than They Should?
10. Should Facial Recognition Technology Be Banned in Public Spaces?

Social Media

Social media shapes our world, but it comes with its challenges. Use these ideas to explore privacy, control, and the impact of social platforms.

1. Should There Be an Age Limit for Using Social Media, Not Just a Minimum Age?
2. Are Social Media Filters and Editing Tools Damaging Self-Perception?
3. Should Governments Regulate the Spread of Misinformation on Social Media?
4. Is It Time to Ban Anonymous Accounts to Reduce Online Harassment?
5. Should Social Media Companies Be Held Responsible for Mental Health Issues in Teens?
6. Is It Ethical for Social Media Platforms to Sell User Data to Advertisers?
7. Should Schools Teach Students How to Spot Fake News on Social Media?
8. Are Social Media Algorithms Designed to Promote Division Rather Than Connection?
9. Is the "Like" Button Doing More Harm Than Good to Mental Health?
10. Is Social Media Making People More Narcissistic?

Unique Persuasive Essay Topics

1. Should College Athletes Be Required to Maintain a Minimum GPA to Compete?
2. Is It Ethical for Companies to Use AI to Influence Consumer Buying Decisions?
3. Should Professional Sports Leagues Implement Stricter Rules on Player Safety?
4. Is It Time to Ban All Single-Use Plastics to Protect the Environment?
5. Should There Be a Limit on How Much Wealth One Person Can Accumulate?
6. Are Reality TV Shows Encouraging Unhealthy Social Behavior?
7. Should Drones Be Used for Public Surveillance Without Consent?
8. Is It Ethical to Use AI for Hiring Instead of Human Recruiters?
9. Should There Be a Universal Cap on Rent Prices in Major Cities?
10. Are Workplaces Responsible for Their Employees’ Mental Health?

Controversial Persuasive Essay Topics

1. Should Violent Video Games Be Restricted to Adults Only, Even With Parental Consent?
2. Should Governments Regulate How Much Wealth Corporations Can Control?
3. Is It Time to Abolish Fraternities and Sororities in Colleges?
4. Should Social Credit Systems Be Implemented to Reward or Punish Citizens?
5. Is It Ethical to Use Embryos for Stem Cell Research?
6. Should the Government Have the Power to Ban Certain Books in Schools?
7. Should There Be a Legal Limit on How Many Children One Family Can Have?
8. Is Universal Basic Income the Solution to Wealth Inequality?
9. Is It Time to End Diplomatic Immunity for Foreign Officials Accused of Crimes?
10. Should Parents Have the Right to Choose Their Child’s Gender Before Birth?

How to Choose Good Persuasive Essay Topics

Let’s be real – the topic you choose can either make or break your persuasive essay. Pick a great one, and it can make the writing process feel like a walk in the park. Choose poorly, though, and you’ll be stuck staring at a blank page, wondering where things went wrong. A solid topic doesn’t just help you write, it also keeps your arguments fresh and makes your reader think twice. But a weak one? Well, that’s a recipe for frustration. So, how do you choose the winning topic? Let’s get into the details.

Think About Your Interests

You're not going to enjoy writing about something that bores you. If you can’t get excited about the topic, your readers won’t either. Instead, go for something that sparks your interest. Passion is infectious, and when you’re invested in your topic, that energy will shine through in your writing. The more you care about your argument, the stronger and more persuasive your essay will be.

Consider the Audience

Now that you’ve found a topic that excites you, it’s time to put yourself in the reader’s shoes. Who’s going to read your essay? A topic that makes you and your friends nod in agreement might not have the same effect on your teacher or a debate judge. The trick is choosing persuasive writing ideas that resonate with your audience. If it’s something they can relate to or find interesting, they’re more likely to care about what you have to say.

Brainstorm

Good ideas don’t always come easily, but don’t worry – that’s completely normal. Great ideas are often the result of trial and error. Grab a notebook and jot down anything that comes to mind, no matter how outlandish it seems. Inspiration can strike at any moment, and the more you write, the clearer your direction will become. Once you have a list, start narrowing it down. Focus on topics that are not only debatable but also backed by credible sources and solid facts.

Check the Relevance of Your Topic

Is this something that matters today? The last thing you want is to start writing about a topic no one cares about. If you’re comparing horses and cars as modes of transportation, chances are your audience will tune out before you even hit your first paragraph. Instead, choose a topic that taps into current issues or trends. If people are already talking about it, they’re much more likely to be interested in reading your take on it.

Tips for Writing a Compelling Persuasive Essay

You’ve chosen your persuasive writing topics — nice! Now, the real work begins: crafting an argument that convinces others. Simply shouting your opinion won’t do the trick; you need to back it up with facts and present it in a way that makes the reader think, "Hmm, they have a point." 

Here’s how to nail topics to write a persuasive essay on:

Benefits of a Strong Persuasive Essay Topic

The right topic is all the difference between grabbing attention and making the reader zone out. Here's why choosing the perfect topic matters so much:

• It Hooks Your Reader – You've probably had to sit through a boring presentation at some point and know how quickly you mentally check out if the topic is dull. A gripping subject gets the reader thinking, so there's more chance they'll actually want to hear what you have to say.
• It Gives You Something to Work With – Some topics are tougher than they need to be. Too simple or one-sided, and you'll be stuck with an essay that lacks substance. A strong topic sets you up for success, making it easier to build an argument that actually sticks.
• It Connects with Your Audience –If no one cares about your topic, your argument falls flat. The trick is choosing something that resonates with your audience. When they feel connected to the issue, they're more likely to stay engaged and see things your way.

The Last Word

Now that you've got all the tools you need, it's time to put them to work! Don’t overthink it — the hardest part is getting started. Pick a topic and get right to it. Consider drafting an outline first; it’s a simple way to organize your thoughts and save time later.

Remember, DoMyEssay’s got your back whenever you hit a roadblock. Whether it’s structuring your essay or polishing your writing, our expert academic writers are here to ensure your argument lands with impact!