What is the purpose of using rhetorical questions in persuasive writing?

Using rhetorical questions in persuasive writing serves the primary purpose of engaging the audience and prompting them to think critically about the topic at hand. When a writer poses a rhetorical question, they encourage the audience to reflect on their own beliefs, experiences, or feelings related to the subject. This technique fosters a deeper connection between the writer and the audience, as individuals are invited to consider the implications of the question rather than simply accepting information passively.

In contrast, the other options do not align with the fundamental role of rhetorical questions. Confusing the audience undermines the goal of clear communication in persuasive writing, while providing additional data typically relies on factual statements and evidence rather than questions. Summarizing main points is often accomplished through direct statements rather than queries, making rhetorical questions unsuitable for that purpose. Thus, the correct answer highlights the interactive and thought-provoking nature of rhetorical questions in persuasive writing.