Analysing techniques

Emotive language

use of emotive language, provokes a strong emotional response in the reader

forging a personal connection to the subject matter.

By appealing directly to the reader’s emotions writer ensures that the content resonates on a deeper, more instinctive level

thus maintaining the reader’s engagement throughout

Anecdote (personal story)

inclusion of a personal anecdote, the writer crafts an intimate, authentic tone that draws the reader in.

This storytelling technique fosters relatability and humanises the subject,

making the overall piece more compelling and emotionally resonant

Rhetorical question

rhetorical question actively involves the reader in the discussion, forcing them to pause and consider their own views

This device disrupts passive reading and demands engagement,

thus maintaining the reader’s active interest

Direct address

by addressing the reader directly, the writer breaks the traditional barrier between writer and audience

this creates a sense of intimacy and personal responsibility,

making the reader feel implicated in the issues presented and therefore more likely to stay engaged

Vivid imagery

writer’s use of vivid imagery paints a striking picture in the reader’s mind, immersing them in the text’s world

this sensory engagement enhances the reader’s emotional investment

and deepens their overall experience of the narrative

Facts and statistics

incorporating factual evidence/ statistics, writer bolsters their credibility and appeals to the reader’s logical reasoning

this grounding in verifiable truth makes the argument more persuasive

and keeps the reader intellectually engaged

Triadic structure (rule of three)

writer’s use of triadic structure, listing ideas in threes, adds rhythm and emphasis to key points

This stylistic choice makes arguments more memorable and impactful,

naturally sustaining the reader’s attention

Hyperbole (or exclamatory)

strategic use of hyperbole, writer amplifies the significance of the topic.

This dramatic emphasis captures the reader’s imagination, signalling the urgency and importance of the issue,

thereby maintaining high levels of interest

Contrast/ juxtaposition

placing contrasting ideas side by side, writer highlights stark differences, adding tension and drama to the text

This invites readers to think critically about the subject

and stimulates deeper engagement

Repetition

deliberate repetition of key words or phrases reinforces central ideas and themes,

ensuring they remain prominent in the reader’s mind.

This rhythmic emphasis creates a hypnotic quality that sustains the reader’s focus

Humour

weaving humour into the text, the writer lightens the tone and builds rapport with the reader

This approach makes the material more accessible and enjoyable,

thereby sustaining the reader’s engagement

Inclusive language

use of inclusive language fosters a sense of unity and shared responsibility between writer and reader

This communal approach draws the reader in,

making them feel part of the discussion rather than a detached observer

Powerful opening/ headline

compelling opening grabs reader's attention instantly, setting the tone for the entire piece

By posing a provocative statement or intriguing idea, the writer hooks the reader from the outset,

ensuring they are motivated to continue reading

Shifts in tone

strategic shifts in tone prevent writing from becoming monotonous.

These tonal variations re-energise the reader’s attention

and signal the importance of particular sections

Alliteration (or anaphora)

writer’s use of alliteration creates a memorable, musical quality to their phrasing

This sonic device adds flair and emphasis to key points,

thereby capturing and sustaining the reader’s attention

Tone

carefully crafted tone shapes the reader’s emotional response

By manipulating tone, writer creates mood and atmosphere,

subtly guiding the reader’s feelings and ensuring sustained engagement with the text

Metaphor/ simile

translates complex or abstract ideas into vivid, relatable imagery.

This figurative approach not only clarifies meaning but also enriches the text’s emotional and imaginative appeal,

drawing the reader deeper into the narrative

Short sentences

writer uses short, punchy sentences to create tension and urgency

this abrupt style disrupts flow intentionally, forcing the reader to stop and absorb each idea,

thereby heightening impact and keeping their attention fixed

Quickening pace

pace of text increases through rapid sentence structure and dynamic verbs

mirroring rising tension or emotional intensity

this quickening rhythm immerses the reader, making them feel swept up in the action

Foreshadowing

writer subtly hints at future events through foreshadowing,

creating a sense of anticipation and unease

keeps reader engaged as they are encouraged to look ahead and question what might unfold

Personification

by attributing human qualities, writer injects emotion and breathes life into subject
this makes complex or dull concepts more vivid and emotionally engaging,
allowing reader to form a deeper, more imaginative connection