Logos, ethos, and pathos are modes of persuasion used to convince audiences. They are also referred to as the three artistic proofs, and are all represented by Greek words. Here is a brief overview of each:

• Logos: appeals to the audiences reason and builds up logical arguments. It can also be thought of as the text of the argument, as well as how well a writer has argued their point. Logos can be developed by using advanced, theoretical or abstract language, citing facts, using historical and literal analogies, and by constructing logical arguments.

• Ethos: appeals to the speakers status or authority, making the audience more likely to trust them. It can also be thought of as the role of the writer in the argument, and how credible their argument is. Ethos can be developed by choosing language that is appropriate for the audience and topic, making yourself sound fair or unbiased, introducing your expertise, accomplishments or pedigree, and by using correct grammar and syntax.

• Pathos: appeals to the emotions, trying to make the audience feel angry or sympathetic, for example. It can also be thought of as the role of the audience in the argument. Pathos can be developed by using meaningful language, emotional tone, emotion-evoking examples, stories of emotional events, and implied meanings.

Collectively, these three appeals are sometimes called the rhetorical triangle. They are central to rhetorical analysis, though a piece of rhetoric might not necessarily use all of them. By learning to recognize logos, ethos, and pathos in the writing of others and in our own, we can create texts that appeal to readers on many different levels.