What Is a Position Paper [+ Example and How to Write One]

position paper

A position paper is a clear, well-argued essay that outlines your stance on a specific issue, backed by solid evidence and reasoning. Whether you're writing for a classroom debate, a Model UN conference, or an academic assignment, a position paper helps you present your viewpoint persuasively and thoughtfully. It answers the core question: What is a position paper? Simply put, it’s your official stance on a topic—structured to inform, argue, and convince. Below, we’ll explain how to write a position paper, offer position paper examples, and break down the format to help you create your own powerful proposition.

What Is a Position Paper?

A position paper (also called a proposition paper or positional paper) is an essay that presents an arguable opinion about an issue—typically that of the author or an organization. Unlike a simple opinion piece, a position paper uses research, facts, and logical structure to support a clear position.

Common in academia, politics, and Model United Nations (MUN), position papers clarify where you stand and why your argument deserves attention. If you’ve ever asked, “What is position for essay writing?”—this is it: a focused essay that takes a stand and supports it convincingly.

Format of Position Paper with Example

A well-structured position paper includes:

1. Introduction

Hook the reader
Introduce the issue
Clearly state your position

2. Background Information

Provide context and key terms
Explain why the topic matters

3. Arguments Supporting Your Position

Present at least 2–3 strong arguments
Use credible sources, data, and examples

4. Counterarguments and Rebuttals

Acknowledge opposing views
Explain why your position is stronger

5. Conclusion

Summarize key points
Restate your position clearly
End with a call to thought or action

How to Write a Position Paper in 5 Simple Steps

Here’s a step-by-step guide to writing a powerful position paper:

Step 1: Pick a Debatable Topic

Choose a topic that has two or more valid sides. For example:

Should college be free?
Is AI a threat to jobs?
Should animal testing be banned?

Step 2: Research Both Sides

Even if you’re sure about your stance, research opposing opinions to prepare strong rebuttals.

Step 3: Formulate Your Thesis Statement

This is the core of your position—make it specific and arguable.

Example: “Governments should regulate artificial intelligence development to prevent mass job displacement.”

Step 4: Create an Outline

Organize your arguments, evidence, and rebuttals logically.

Step 5: Write, Revise, and Edit

Craft your essay using the position paper format and revise for clarity, coherence, and accuracy.

📄 Example of Position Paper

Position Paper example #1

Topic: Should Single-Use Plastics Be Banned?

Position Paper Example Opening:

Thesis Statement: Single-use plastics should be banned globally due to their environmental impact, public health risks, and the availability of sustainable alternatives.

Background: Single-use plastics contribute significantly to ocean pollution, taking hundreds of years to decompose and harming marine life. Despite convenience, their costs far outweigh the benefits.

Arguments:

They account for 50% of all plastic waste.

Countries like Canada and the EU have already introduced successful bans.

Reusable options are cost-effective in the long run.

Counterargument: Some argue that banning plastics harms small businesses. However, governments can provide incentives for adopting eco-friendly packaging.

This example for position paper demonstrates how to structure your argument with clarity, logic, and evidence.

Position paper Example #2

Topic: Should College Education Be Free?

Introduction

In recent years, the debate over whether college education should be free has gained considerable attention across the globe. While some countries have already implemented tuition-free university education, others, like the United States, continue to charge high fees. Proponents argue that free college increases accessibility, reduces inequality, and benefits society overall. Opponents, however, claim that it would be economically unsustainable and could devalue higher education. This paper argues that college education should be free because it enhances social equity, boosts economic productivity, and aligns with the principle that education is a fundamental right.

Argument 1: Free College Promotes Social Equity

Education has long been regarded as a ladder for social mobility. However, the rising cost of tuition often blocks this ladder for students from low-income families. According to data from the National Center for Education Statistics (2022), students from the lowest income quartile are four times less likely to obtain a bachelor’s degree compared to those from the highest quartile. Free college education would remove a major financial barrier, enabling more students to pursue higher education regardless of their economic background. This promotes a fairer society where success is determined by ability, not affordability.

Argument 2: Economic Benefits of a Better-Educated Workforce

Investing in higher education is not just a moral decision; it is an economic strategy. Research from the Georgetown Center on Education and the Workforce (2021) suggests that by 2031, 70% of jobs will require some form of post-secondary education. Providing free college education would ensure that the workforce is prepared for the demands of a modern economy. Additionally, college graduates typically earn higher salaries, which increases tax revenue and decreases reliance on social services. In essence, free college education pays for itself in the long term through a more productive and self-sufficient population.

Argument 3: Education is a Public Good, Not a Commodity

Treating education as a commodity rather than a public good undermines democratic values. Just like access to clean water or public roads, education benefits all of society, not just the individual who receives it. When more people are educated, there is less crime, better civic engagement, and a healthier society overall. Free college aligns with the idea that education is a universal right, not a privilege for the wealthy. Countries like Germany and Finland, where higher education is free, consistently rank high in both educational outcomes and overall social wellbeing.

Counterargument and Rebuttal: Free College Is Too Expensive

Critics often argue that making college free would place an unbearable burden on taxpayers. However, this assumes that the current system is cost-effective, which it is not. Student loan debt in the U.S. exceeds **$1.7 trillion**, and loan defaults cost the government billions. Instead of spending this money on managing debt, these funds could be redirected to making college tuition-free. Moreover, progressive taxation can ensure that wealthier individuals contribute more, creating a fair and sustainable funding model.

Conclusion

Free college education is not a radical idea—it is a necessary step toward a more just, prosperous, and educated society. By removing financial barriers, we create opportunities for all individuals to succeed, regardless of socioeconomic status. The long-term economic benefits and the enhancement of democratic values further support the case for tuition-free higher education. Therefore, policymakers must take serious steps to implement this change and reframe education as a public investment, not a private expense.

Why a Strong Position Paper Matters

A position paper isn’t just about stating what you believe—it's about persuading your reader with logic and research. Whether you're preparing for MUN, writing an academic essay, or building a case in policy discussions, understanding how to write a position paper gives your arguments clarity and power. Use the format of position paper with example as your guide, and you'll be well on your way to creating compelling arguments that leave an impact.