The Rhetorical Modes

The rhetorical modes are tools for writers to help them develop and organize their writing. Although
some works may employ an overarching organizational mode or pattern, writers typically use more than
one mode throughout a piece of writing. They often move fluidly between modes depending on the
rhetorical situation and the needs that arise from that situation. For example, writers often use
exemplification or analogy to support claims in their arguments.

Mode Purpose Example Statement

To persuade your reader to accept your The U.S. government should enforce
Argument opinion, take some action, or do both about stricter standards on automobile
your topic emissions.

To compare topics that typically seem Passing legislation through Congress is

Analogy different at first glance (works best if the like a Rubik’s cube: all pieces need to
analogy uses an item familiar to the reader) align or nothing will be solved.

To discuss your topic by using examples to To show his passion for humane care, for
Exemplification or
clarify your points instance, he volunteered at the local
Illustration animal rescue shelters.

To create a picture in words (vivid, Its glossy hue sharply contrasts the
Description specific details) to help the reader visualize fuzzy, muted sounds my guitar hums
something a writer has seen, heard, or done when I rustle its strings.

To explain information about your topic as “Someone must have slandered Josef K.,
a series of events in story format often to for one morning, without having done
Narration demonstrate a theme or significance anything wrong, he was arrested.” –
Franz Kafka

Comparison and To show how two or more areas of your Both of the rivers flow by the city, but
Contrast Analysis topic are similar, different, or both the Anacostia River is far more polluted.

To explain a process by giving directions First, you make your order; then, you
Process Analysis or information about how to do something must pay before you can pick up your
or how something is done coffee.

To explain what caused something to Because the roads were slick from the
Cause and Effect happen about a topic or issue snow, Paul’s car lost traction and slid
Analysis into the fence.

Problem and To inform readers about an issue and offer The lack of attention could be resolved
Solution Analysis solutions to that issue by adding variety to the class period.

To break your topic into groups of Originally, writing was divided into
Classification and categories and explain them three main genres: poetry, prose, and
Division Analysis drama.

To define a word or concept about your Wisdom is intelligence gained not

Definition topic using synonyms, essential through a book but throughout life.
definitions, or extended definitions

Smith Vidal Literacy and Language Center

MLK Room 204