PSA Commercials

The Public Service Announcement (PSA) video should market a product or idea and be persuasive. It meets the precise time limit of 15, 30, or 60 seconds (including credits)

Commercials can use a variety of Persuasive Techniques:

1. Avante Garde:

The suggestion that using this product puts the user ahead of the times. A toy manufacturer encourages kids to be the first on their block to have a new toy.

2. Weasel Words:

“Weasel words” are used to suggest a positive meaning without actually really making any guarantee. A scientist says that a diet product might help you to lose weight the way it helped him to lose weight.

A dish soap leaves dishes virtually spotless.

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3. Magic Ingredients:

The suggestion that some almost miraculous discovery makes the product exceptionally effective. A pharmaceutical manufacturer describes a special coating that makes their pain reliever less irritating to the stomach than a competitor’s.

4. Patriotism:

The suggestion that purchasing this product shows your love of your country. A company brags about its product being made in America.

5. Plain Folks:

The suggestion that the product is a practical product of good value for ordinary people. A cereal manufacturer shows an ordinary family sitting down to breakfast and enjoying their product.

6. Snob Appeal:

The suggestion that the use of the product makes the customer part of an elite group with a luxurious and glamorous lifestyle. A coffee manufacturer shows people dressed in formal gowns and tuxedos drinking their brand at an art gallery.

7. Bribery Bribery:

The commercial offers you something “extra.” Buy a burger; get free fries.

8. Bandwagon:

The suggestion that you should join the crowd or be on the winning side by using a product—you don’t want to be the only person without it!

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