How to Write an Advertisement | NSW Selective Writing

PersuasiveBeginner

Learn how to grab attention, highlight benefits, use persuasive language and end with a clear call to action.

Lesson · about 5 minPractice · about 30 min

Watch the lesson

Watch the matching Path to Selective lesson when available, then review the structure before you practise.

Purpose, audience and tone

Purpose

Convince the reader to take a specific action, such as buying a product or joining an event.

Typical audience

Customers, parents, students or the general public who might be interested in the offer.

Tone

persuasive, enthusiastic, confident

Core structure

Follow these steps so your response matches the expected Advertisement format.

Attention-grabbing headline
Start with a short, bold line that makes the reader stop and look.
Hook or opening offer
Quickly explain what is being advertised and why it matters right now.
Key benefits
List the main advantages for the reader, not just a list of features.
Persuasive details
Add proof, emotion or special language that makes the offer feel exciting and trustworthy.
Call to action
Tell the reader exactly what to do next, such as “Visit today” or “Sign up now”.

Exam time plan

A clear 30-minute plan for exam conditions.

4 minPlan

23 minWrite

3 minCheck

Example opening or extract

Sample opening

Discover the lunchbox that keeps snacks fresher for longer — designed for busy school mornings!

Sample extract

Parents love the spill-proof design and students love the colourful compartments. Join thousands of families who make mornings easier. Order yours today.

Key features

A bold headline that grabs attention
Clear benefits written for the reader
Persuasive adjectives and emotive language
A memorable slogan or catchy phrase
A direct call to action

Common mistakes

Only listing features instead of benefits
Forgetting a clear call to action
Using a weak or confusing headline
Sounding too informal for the product or audience

Planning checklist

Who am I trying to persuade?
What action do I want them to take?
What are the three strongest benefits?
What headline will stop the reader?
How will I end with a clear call to action?

Practice options

Apply what you learned in a timed exam using the Path to Selective exam experience.

Timed Exam Practice

Complete the response under realistic 30-minute NSW Selective exam conditions.

Start 30-Minute Exam

Final editing checklist

Is the headline short and powerful?
Are the benefits clear to the reader?
Does the ending tell the reader what to do?
Have I checked spelling of product or place names?

Continue with a nearby format to strengthen transferable skills.

Persuasive

Persuasive · Intermediate

Convince the reader to agree with your view using reasons, evidence and strong language.

Brochure

Practical and Functional · Intermediate

Promote a place, event or service with appealing information and a clear invitation.

Speech