Understanding the Rhetorical Triangle

Welcome to Mind Tools' video learning series.

Trying to get your point across to an audience can be daunting.

Many people struggle to turn a thought or idea into a message, whether in a written document or a presentation. Often you get one shot, and if you lose your readers or your listeners, it's difficult to win them back.

So you need to choose your words carefully. You have to present your points in a style, and in a sequence, that suits your message.

The Rhetorical Triangle is a tool that you can use to formulate your thoughts, and to present your position in the most persuasive way possible.

You need to consider each of its three points when you apply the triangle to your choice of communication.

First of all, consider the writer, or speaker. That's you!

It's important to establish credibility as soon as possible.

Your audience needs to know who you are, what your motives are, and where your authority to speak on this particular issue comes from.

Otherwise, you risk leaving your audience feeling unconvinced.

So, show them what your motives are and be clear about your purpose. Are you asking people to do something, or giving them information? Are you trying to persuade, or entertain?

The second point on the triangle is the audience.

You need to consider your audience members' expectations: what are they hoping to take away from you and how will they use this information?

Draw on any shared values you may have, and try to connect with them on an emotional level, but only where this is appropriate and honest.

If you misjudge this, an audience might feel they're being manipulated.

Finally, consider the context of your message.

Your audience will analyze your message by putting it into context. They will consider if what they're hearing or reading is relevant, necessary and clear. So you need to take into consideration all of these factors.

Judge your tone carefully, too. For example, a short presentation to your team can be informal and off-the-cuff, but the tone of a report to your senior managers should probably be more formal.

Also, think about recent events that might be relevant, and any background information your audience might need. Consider any counter-arguments that might need challenging, and make sure the medium you communicate in suits the circumstances.

Above all, make sure your argument is logical, well-constructed, and believable throughout.

If you want to find out more about the Rhetorical Triangle, read the article that accompanies this video.