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How to Write an Argumentative Essay?

Prof. Wesley Spencer
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Last updated:
Apr 23, 2024
Published:
Jun 2, 2023
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How to Write an Argumentative Essay?
Argumentative Essay
TABLE OF CONTENTS

What Is an Argumentative Essay?

Simple Argumentative Essay Structure

Enhanced Argumentative Essay Structure

Key Elements of Argumentative Essay Writing

How to Write an Argumentative Essay?

Argumentative Essay Writing Tips

Writing an argumentative essay is like becoming a persuasive wizard with words. You're essentially learning how to convince people of your viewpoint using logic and evidence. It's a crucial skill because we live in a world full of differing opinions, and being able to express your ideas effectively can make a big difference. In this article, we'll walk you through the important steps and tips for creating an argumentative essay that packs a good punch. If you’re in a hurry, use our argumentative essay writing service now to relieve the workload and get some much-needed rest.

What Is an Argumentative Essay?

An argumentative essay is a type of academic writing where you present a claim or viewpoint on a controversial subject and provide facts and reasoning to support your position. Unlike other types of essays, such as descriptive or narrative essays, the goal of an argumentative essay is not only to inform or entertain but also to persuade the reader to agree with your perspective. It involves thorough research, considering opposing viewpoints, and presenting a strong case for your own stance through logical arguments and credible data. Remember that you can use our coursework writing services to deal with longer research papers that are more laborious and time-consuming than essays.

Simple Argumentative Essay Structure

The basic argumentative essay structure typically consists of several key components:

Introduction

  • This section provides an overview of the topic, introduces the main argument or claim (thesis statement), and grabs the reader's attention with a hook.

Background Information

  • Depending on the complexity of the subject, you may need to provide some context or background information to help the reader understand the issue.

Thesis Statement

  • The thesis statement is a concise statement that clearly presents your main argument or viewpoint on the issue. It usually appears at the end of the introduction paragraph.

Body Paragraphs

  • The essay's body contains several paragraphs, each presenting a separate argument or proof to support your thesis statement. Each paragraph should start with a sentence that introduces the paragraph's main point, followed by supporting details and examples.

Counterargument

  • Acknowledging and addressing opposing viewpoints strengthens your argument. In this section, you present and refute the opposing side's argument with reasoning.

Conclusion

  • The conclusion restates the thesis statement and summarizes the essay's main points. It also offers some final thoughts or implications of the argument and may suggest further research or action avenues.

References/Bibliography

  • If you've used external sources to support your argument, you should include a list of references or a bibliography at the end of the essay.

We also have a narrative essay outline, another common composition students must handle frequently.

Enhanced Argumentative Essay Structure

A more advanced structure of an argumentative essay goes beyond the basics to incorporate nuanced elements that enhance the persuasiveness and sophistication of your argument. Here's a more detailed breakdown:

Introduction

  • Start with a captivating anecdote, quote, question, or statistic to grab the reader's attention and make them interested in the topic.
  • Provide context for the issue, including relevant historical or theoretical background.
  • Clearly state your main argument or claim, highlighting its significance and complexity.

Definition of Terms

  • Define key terms or concepts central to your argument to clarify and prevent misunderstandings.

Literature Review

  • Summarize relevant research or scholarly literature to demonstrate your understanding of the discourse surrounding it.
  • Evaluate different perspectives and theories, highlighting gaps or areas of controversy.

Methodology (if applicable)

  • If your essay involves original research or analysis, outline your methodology, including data collection methods and analysis techniques.

Body Paragraphs

  • Each paragraph should begin with a clear sentence that previews the main point or argument it will address.
  • Provide data from credible sources to support your claims and analyze it to explain its significance and relevance to your argument.
  • Anticipate and address potential counterarguments, demonstrating a sophisticated understanding of the issue's complexities.
  • Ensure smooth transitions between paragraphs and coherence in organizing ideas.

Ethical Considerations (if applicable)

  • Discuss any ethical implications or considerations related to your argument, demonstrating ethical awareness and responsibility.

Conclusion

  • Summarize your main argument and its implications, emphasizing its significance in the broader context.
  • Reflect on the broader implications of your argument and its potential impact on the field or society.
  • Encourage further discussion, research, or action related to the subject, inviting readers to engage with the issues raised in your essay.

References

  • Provide a comprehensive list of references or a bibliography, consistently following the appropriate citation style (e.g., APA, MLA) throughout the essay.

Key Elements of Argumentative Essay Writing

Argumentative essay writing involves several key elements to persuade readers of your viewpoint effectively. Here are the essential components:

Clear Thesis Statement

  • Your thesis statement should clearly state your position on the topic and preview the main points you'll use to support it.

Research and Evidence

  • Conduct thorough research to gather credible foregrounding and examples that support your argument. This argumentation can include facts, statistics, expert opinions, and case studies.

Understanding of Opposing Views

  • Acknowledge and understand opposing viewpoints to strengthen your argument. Addressing counterarguments demonstrates that you've considered multiple perspectives before concluding.

Logical Organization

  • Structure your essay logically, with each paragraph focusing on a single main point. Use transitions to ensure a smooth flow between ideas and paragraphs.

Strong Introduction

  • Grab the reader's attention with an engaging hook, provide context for the topic, and present your thesis statement.

Body Paragraphs

  • Each body paragraph should start with a clear issue sentence that supports your thesis statement. Present indication and analysis to support your claims, and address counterarguments when necessary.

Critical Analysis

  • Analyze your present evidence to explain its relevance and significance to your argument. Don't just summarize; interpret the information and explain how it supports your thesis.

Convincing Language

  • Use persuasive language and rhetoric to convince readers of the validity of your argument. This includes employing logical reasoning, emotional appeals, and ethical considerations.

Effective Conclusion

  • Summarize your main points and restate your thesis in the conclusion. Leave readers with a lasting impression by reinforcing the importance of your argument or suggesting potential implications or actions.

Revision and Editing

  • Finally, revise and edit your essay to ensure clarity, coherence, and correctness. Check for logical inconsistencies, grammar and spelling errors, and ensure your argument is persuasive.

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How to Write an Argumentative Essay?

An argumentative essay involves presenting a claim or argument on a topic and supporting it with credibility and reasoning. Here's a step-by-step guide to help you write one:

Choose a Topic

  • Select a controversial or debatable topic that interests you and has enough testimony to support both sides.

Research

  • Gather information from credible sources such as academic journals, books, reputable websites, and expert opinions.
  • Take notes on key points, statistics, and arguments from both sides.

Develop a Thesis Statement

  • Your thesis statement should clearly state your position on the topic.
  • It should be concise, specific, and arguable.
  • This statement will guide the rest of your essay.

Outline Your Essay

  • Create an outline that includes an introduction, body paragraphs, and a conclusion.
  • Use either a basic or an advanced structure that we showed you earlier.

Write the Introduction

  • Start with an attention-grabbing hook to engage your reader.
  • Provide context for the topic and introduce your thesis statement.

Write the Body Paragraphs

  • Each body paragraph should begin with a sentence introducing the main point.
  • Support your arguments with statistics, facts, examples, and expert quotes.
  • Make sure to analyze and explain how the evidence supports your claims.

Address Counterarguments

  • Anticipate opposing viewpoints and address them in your essay.
  • Acknowledge valid points from the other side, but refute them with reasoning to strengthen your argument.

Write the Conclusion

  • Summarize the main points of your essay and restate your thesis statement.
  • Emphasize the importance of your argument and leave the reader with a thought-provoking idea or call to action.

Revise and Edit

  • Review your essay for clarity, coherence, and logical flow.
  • Make sure each paragraph transitions smoothly to the next.
  • Check for grammar, punctuation, and spelling errors.
  • Consider seeking feedback from peers or a teacher to improve your essay further.

Format Your Essay

  • Follow the formatting guidelines provided by your instructor or chosen style guide (e.g., MLA, APA).
  • Include a title page, in-text citations, and a reference list if necessary.
How to Write an Argumentative Essay

Argumentative Essay Writing Tips

Here are some specific hints to enhance your argumentative essay writing:

Create a Visual Argument

  • Consider incorporating visual elements into your essay, such as graphs, charts, or infographics.
  • Visuals can provide compelling evidence and make complex data easier to understand, enhancing the persuasiveness of your argument.

Analyze Language and Rhetoric

  • Pay close attention to the language used by your sources and opponents.
  • Analyze rhetorical devices, such as ethos, pathos, and logos, to understand how arguments are constructed and how they appeal to emotions, credibility, and logic.

Utilize Personal Anecdotes Strategically

  • While argumentative essays typically rely on empirical evidence, incorporating relevant personal anecdotes can add a human element to your argument.
  • Use anecdotes sparingly and ensure they directly support your thesis, helping engage readers personally.

Explore Alternative Solutions

  • Instead of solely defending your position, consider exploring alternative solutions to the issue at hand.
  • Discussing different perspectives and potential compromises demonstrates critical thinking and strengthens the depth of your analysis.

Engage with Opposing Viewpoints Empathetically

  • When addressing counterarguments, strive to empathize with opposing viewpoints rather than simply dismissing them.
  • Acknowledge valid concerns and demonstrate a nuanced understanding of the issue's complexities, which can lend credibility to your argument.

Employ Storytelling Techniques

  • Weave storytelling elements into your essay to captivate your audience and make your argument more memorable.
  • Use narrative techniques, such as vivid descriptions, anecdotes, or hypothetical scenarios, to illustrate key points and evoke emotional responses.

Invoke Thought-Provoking Questions

  • Pose thought-provoking questions throughout your essay to stimulate critical thinking and encourage readers to reconsider their perspectives.
  • These questions can be rhetorical devices to prompt reflection and engagement with your argument.

Provide Real-World Examples

  • Supplement your arguments with real-world examples that illustrate the practical implications of the issue you're discussing.
  • Concrete examples not only bolster your evidence but also help readers grasp the relevance and significance of your argument tangibly.

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