The most effective and thought-provoking articles I've read had solid positions, reasoning, and explanations to them. A catchy title and intriguing intro definitely help but aren't absolutely necessary. A clear position, though, that makes or breaks the article. Positions like "All space koalas are filthy pirate scum" makes it pretty clear where I stand on the issue, but it's now up to me to explain why I take that position. And just what does my position mean for the reader?

Well, space koalas are filthy because their spaceships are a mish-mash of stolen technology from other space-faring races. And they haven't figured out the concept of cleanliness yet. But, then again, pirates don't really need to be clean; it's not in their job description. The scum part is just because their spaceships tend to be surprisingly humid, so all sorts of funky things start growing on the hull, like space barnacles and space moss.

I've given my position and a very brief reasoning behind it. Explanations can be given for those curious about my history with space koala pirates. And as for just what does this all mean for my reader...well...that's a bit harder to detail. See, I'm not my reader. I'm myself. I'm a word ninja, trained in the ancients arts of word jutsu. My perceptions are a bit...slanted. So it's hard to determine just how my readers will interpret my writings.

I have learned that the clearer I make my position, usually, the better it's understood. This requires consistency while explaining just why my position should be considered. It's all well and good to warn readers that filthy space koala pirates are filthy and not to be trusted, EVER! But it's pointless if my readers don't believe me, or if they don't think it really effects them in any way. (You don't believe me? Well, don't come crying to me when space koalas raid your house looking for potato chips and light bulbs.)

But, Word Ninja, not all articles have set positions in them, you might say. Well, I toss my shuriken at you, you meddling meddler. Sure, some articles that try to argue multiple sides may not have one clear winning position. Instead, they may have multiple, equally valid positions. But they're positions nonetheless. Positions that need to be clearly defined and explained, if not necessarily defended.

How do you state your positions in articles? Have you ever had them misinterpreted or found to be confusing? How do you rectify such problems?