--The three modes of persuasion --How to structure an academic essay --How to spot and avoid logical fallacies --How to compose with literary figures --Practical tips for improving speed in composition --A Study Guide with exercises

This is the essential guide to persuasive writing and speaking, in the tradition of Strunk and White's The Elements of Style.

"Ryan Topping has produced a guide accessible and useful to those of all ages and experience levels, in the classroom, the political setting, and the pulpit."--Joseph R. Wood, Institute of World Politics

"This is a splendid introduction to what you need to know to communicate wisely and well."--Quentin Schultze, Calvin College, author of An Essential Guide to Public Speaking

"The Elements of Rhetoric is that rarest of rhetorical treats: a playfully serious and seriously playful summa of the art of communication--classical education at its very best!"--Raymond F. Hain, Providence College

"Leading by example, Topping delivers a handy guide for all of us who rely on the art of persuasion. The Elements of Rhetoric is a gem."--Daniel B. Coupland, Hillsdale College, co-author of Well-Ordered Language: The Curious Child's Guide to Grammar

"This is the book I have sought for 35 years. For those like me, for whom public speaking and writing is their stock-in-trade, this book is a must-have daily companion."--Michael C. Gilleran, Business & IP Trial Lawyer & Partner, Burns & Levinson, LLP, Boston, MA

"This versatile guide can supplement course material from any discipline in order to help students polish presentations and essays."--ANN MARIE KLEIN, Department of Catholic Studies, University of St. Thomas, MN

Ryan N.S. Topping earned a doctorate in Theology from The University of Oxford and is a Fellow of Thomas More College of the Liberal Arts. He has published several books on education and Christian culture.