How to write an argumentative essay

Argumentative essays ask students to analyze a particular topic and develop strong arguments to support their positions. Students must use solid evidence and logic to support their arguments. To get started, students must choose a topic to cover. This could be a social, political, economic or cultural issue. After that, students should investigate the topic carefully and gather relevant information. They should also make notes about these sources of information so they can refer back to them when writing the essay. Then, students should plan their essay structure well. This includes deciding how they will divide their argument and how each section will connect to the others. They must also plan how they will use the evidence to support their argument in each section. After that, students can start writing their argumentative essays. The opening paragraph should contain a brief introduction to the topic and position taken by the author. Furthermore, each paragraph must focus on one main point and be supported by solid evidence and sound logic. Finally, the closing paragraph should contain a brief summary of all the main points made previously and provide a strong conclusion about the topic. After the essay has been written, students will need to revise it to ensure that all important points have been conveyed correctly and that the essay is free of grammatical or spelling errors. If there is time left, students also need to review their essay to ensure that the arguments are still valid and relevant to the topic.
1. Understand your topic and purpose: Before you start writing, make sure you understand the topic that will be covered and the purpose of your essay. This will help you determine the right approach to present your argument. 2. Make an outline: After understanding the topic and purpose, make an outline for your argumentative essay. This outline will contain the main points to be conveyed in the essay, as well as how the conclusion will be conveyed. 3. Research: After making an outline, do research to get information that is relevant to the argument you want to convey. Make sure that these sources are valid and reliable so that your arguments are based on true facts. 4. Write the body of the essay: After doing your research, start writing the body of your argumentative essay using the information you have gathered during the research process. Don’t forget to provide examples or evidence to support each of the arguments presented. 5. Make a conclusion: After completing the body of the essay, write a brief but concise conclusion about the main arguments presented in the essay. Make sure that the conclusion is also based on the facts and evidence previously presented in the body of your argumentative essay. 6. Edit and revise: After finishing writing, be sure to edit and revise your argumentative essay to make it even better before submitting it to your readers or examiners
What is an argumentative essay?
In an argumentative essay, writers must present strong and valid arguments to support their position. The author must also acknowledge the opponent’s argument and provide strong reasons to reject it. Argumentative essays require extensive research and in-depth analysis to ensure that the arguments made are sound and based on facts.
1. Use of language: Does the author use precise and accurate language? Does the author use the right words to convey their ideas? 2. Structure: Does the essay have a clear and logical structure? Does the paragraph contain one main idea and is supported by examples, analogies, or other evidence? 3. Logic: Does the argument make sense and is supported by strong evidence? Does the argument have valid premises and a logical conclusion? 4. Subject knowledge: Does the author have a deep understanding of the topic? Do they cite important facts and provide relevant examples to support their arguments?
- Research skills
- Writing ability
- Analytical ability
This paper can also help students develop critical thinking skills. They have to analyze the available information and make logical arguments to support their thesis. It also helps them develop the ability to identify and respond to opposing arguments. Thus, they can learn how best to convince others of their views.
Argumentative essay elements
- Position : It is important to determine which side of the argument you take. For example, you might argue that tobacco or marijuana products should be made illegal. Make a point of expressing why you took your initial position. For example, you could provide good reasons to show how tobacco products might damage people’s health.
- Proof : This is where you have to provide factual proof of your reasons from outside resources. It’s important to provide citations and references for where you collected your evidence. If there is no evidence, the evidence may not count. For example, you could cite health studies or scientific papers relating to the impact of tobacco products on people’s health to prove your statement.
- Counterarguments. : This is where you need to present the other side of the issue. Give your opponent’s argument from your point of view. After stating these counterarguments, you must state why they are wrong, weak, or ineffective by providing further evidence.
3 ways to approach argumentative writing
1. Analyze Your Thesis: First, you must determine the main thesis of your argumentative essay. This is an argument that you will make and prove through the use of facts, examples and logic. Once you have defined your main thesis, you must analyze it carefully to ensure that it stands on solid foundations. 2. Make an Outline: After determining your main thesis, the next step is to make an outline for your argumentative essay. This outline will help you plan how the essay structure will look like and how each paragraph will relate to one another. 3. Writing the Essay: Once the outline is ready, the next step is to write the essay itself. Be sure to use lots of examples and facts to support your argument and also make sure to conclude with a strong conclusion that encourages the reader to agree with your opinion.
1. The Classical Approach.
1. Problem identification: Identify the existing problem and identify the factors that might influence the problem. 2. Data analysis: Collect relevant data to analyze the problem and determine its root cause. 3. Assessment of alternatives: Assess the various potential solutions to solve the problem and choose the best solution. 4. Solution implementation: Implement the selected solution by taking the necessary actions to solve the problem. 5. Evaluation of results: Measure the effectiveness of the selected solution and make changes if necessary to achieve the desired result.
- INTRODUCTION Where do you introduce the main message of your paper (thesis statement). Example: Tobacco products can induce a variety of health problems, including cancer, heart attack, and obesity.
- Subject background Where you introduce early studies of children who have grown up in an adoption environment. Here you can also talk about the long-term effects of smoking.
- main argument. – Talk about the main points of your position. For example, you could write about feelings of addiction that make it difficult to quit smoking.
- Disclaimer – This is where your counterargument falls into place. Introduce the opposite side you need to refute as invalid. Example: Some people think that smoking does not affect one’s health and that genetic predisposition is more likely to cause problems for one’s health. However, there is major evidence to suggest that smoking can cause greater long-term damage to the lungs than a genetic predisposition to cancer.
- Conclusion – present all the main arguments and provide solutions or studies that need to be done in the future.
2. The Rogerian approach.
3. Toulmin’s approach
You can highlight the benefits of legalizing drugs, such as reducing crime and helping people with illnesses. On the other hand, you can also highlight the dangers associated with legalizing drugs, such as increased drug use and health risks. By looking at the issue objectively, you can find common ground for your polemical argument.
Steps to write your argumentative essay
Step 1: Find an argumentative essay topic
1. Has relevance to current issues. 2. Provides space for rich interpretation and analysis. 3. Provide opportunities to explore new ideas and think critically. 4. Challenge the reader to consider different views of the topic. Some popular essay topics today include: 1. Climate Change and How Should We Deal With It? 2. Is Technology Dangerous to Human Life? 3. Is Globalization Harming Developing Countries? 4. Should Free Education Be Implemented Worldwide? 5. Is US Foreign Policy Still Relevant in the Modern Era? 6. Does Social Media Bring More Benefit or Disadvantage? 7. What Are the Consequences of Unbalanced Economic Growth in the World? 8. How Can We Reduce Social Inequality in Our Society?
- coherence and relativity with the subject you are studying;
- importance;
- inherent values;
- further research potential.
Also, be sure to include solid evidence to support your position. This will help you explain your point better and make it more convincing to others.
1. Does technology make us happier? 2. Does technological progress have a positive or negative impact on society? 3. Does social media increase or decrease happiness levels? 4. Does technology help or hinder social interaction? 5. Has technology had a greater impact on the younger generation than on other generations? 6. Has technology reduced social inequalities around the world? 7. How has technology affected the way people learn and work? 8. How has technology affected the way people communicate with each other? 9. Are there risks to excessive use of technology? 10. How have technological developments affected modern culture?
- Apple vs Microsoft: Which software brand is more useful for students?
- Do violent video games have a negative psychological impact on children?
- From a financial perspective, should one invest in cryptocurrencies?
- From an economic standpoint, are electric cars better overall?
- Is society becoming too dependent on technology?
1. Does the school policy that requires students to have uniforms have a positive effect on academic achievement? 2. Does modern technology help or hinder learning in schools? 3. What is the impact of an overly strict curriculum on students in secondary schools? 4. What are the benefits of the guidance and counseling program in schools? 5. How to increase student participation in extracurricular activities at school? 6. Are there any benefits from implementing recess at school? 7. How to prevent bullying in high school? 8. Are there any benefits from applying the inquiry learning method in schools?
1. How has technology affected the way we learn? 2. What are the positive and negative impacts of using social media in schools? 3. What should be done to improve public speaking skills at school? 4. How can we reduce bullying in schools? 5. What are the benefits of having an academic guidance program in schools? 6. How can we increase student participation in extracurricular activities? 7. What should be done to encourage students to be more interested in math and science? 8. How can we make the school environment more welcoming for all? 9. What are the benefits of using integrated learning methods in schools? 10. How can we promote a culture of inclusion in schools?
- What is the most important second language to learn as a student in the US?
- Should the minimum driving age be lowered?
- Are standardized tests a fair reflection of student skills?
- Are athletes overpaid?
- Should high school students be free to choose their classes?
1. Introduction to Information Technology 2. Computer Operating System 3. Computer Network 4. Web Programming 5. Information Technology Security 6. Database 7. System Analysis and Design 8. Mobile Computing 9. Cloud Computing 10. Data Visualization
1. How can technology be used to improve the quality of education? 2. What is the impact of globalization on social and economic development? 3. How can public policies affect poverty rates around the world? 4. What must be done to reduce gender inequality in various fields? 5. How can the theory of evolution be used to understand human behavior? 6. What are the environmental impacts of using fossil energy? 7. How is the concept of human rights universally applied? 8. What are the ethical implications of using new technologies? 9. How will global climate change affect society in the future? 10. What should be done to reduce economic inequality between countries?
- Is there enough evidence to prove that the news source has a biased agenda?
- Is the legalization of cannabis as a recreational drug economically justified?
- Can we form Russia as a super-state alongside the United States and China?
- What is the most influential technological advance in human history?
- Should we sacrifice some public services for lower taxes?
Step 2: Conduct research
1. Decide on the research topic: First of all, you have to decide on the research topic that you are going to do. This could be a social, political, economic or other issue. 2. Generate a hypothesis: After choosing a research topic, you must create a hypothesis about what you want to find out from the research. This hypothesis will be the basis for conducting further research. 3. Search for data and information: Next, you must search for data and information that is relevant to the research topic that has been previously selected. This data and information can come from primary sources (eg interviews) or secondary sources (eg books). 4. Data analysis: After obtaining the necessary data and information, the next step is to conduct data analysis to find answers to the initial hypotheses that have been made previously. 5. Summarize the results: After conducting data analysis, the last step is to conclude the results of the research clearly and easily understood by others.
- Choose the side you will represent.
- Choose arguments that can appeal to your audience.
- Research who else supports this argument.
- Researching your readers’ objections might increase.
- Organize your evidence.
1. Are your sources of information trustworthy? 2. Is the information presented accurate and up-to-date? 3. Is the information presented objective? 4. Is the information presented relevant to your topic? 5. Is the information presented written by experts or experienced people?
- Accuracy
- Source credibility.
- Punctuality
- Objectivity or bias.
- Reliability
Step 3: Write an Argumentative Essay Outline
First, you have to write a compelling introduction. This introduction should make the reader interested in reading further. It should also present your thesis and provide an overview of the topic you will cover. Second, write a few paragraphs that support your thesis. Each paragraph should focus on one main argument and provide evidence to support it. Be sure to use strong examples and accurate data to support your argument. Third, write a strong closing paragraph. This paragraph should make the reader feel that they have learned something from your essay and convince them that your thesis is completely valid. Don’t forget to end your essay with a strong, convincing closing sentence.
Introduction: At the start of the 21st century, the internet has become one of the most significant technological advances in society. This has opened doors to a wide variety of communications, information and opportunities that were not available before. In this essay, I will highlight the benefits offered by the internet and how it has positively affected society. Body Paragraph 1: One of the main benefits of the internet is easier communication. With the help of social media like Facebook and Twitter, people can easily connect with old friends or meet new people around the world. It also allows people to video call or teleconference with people in other locations without having to go there. This is especially useful for those who work remotely or just want to stay in touch with friends and family in other locations. Body Paragraph 2: Apart from that, the internet also provides access to unlimited information resources. Users can search for various information on any topic through search engines such as Google or Yahoo! This is very useful for researchers to get accurate and fast data for their projects. The internet also gives access to free educational websites like Wikipedia and Khan Academy, which make learning easier for everyone. Body Paragraph 3: Finally, the internet has provided new opportunities for business people to grow their business globally through online platforms such as Amazon and eBay. This allows traders to sell their products on international markets without ever leaving their homes. This is what has opened the door for startup businesses to start their own business without high initial capital costs or high operational costs. Conclusion: As such, the internet has greatly benefited modern society by facilitating communication between individuals, providing access to limitless information resources, and providing new opportunities for startups to start their own businesses globally. It is with all these benefits that have made the internet one of the most significant technological advances in today’s society.
Hello, my name is [Your Name]. I come from [City/Country] and currently live in [City/Country]. I am a [work] person and I like to do many things, including [your hobby].
- Hook statement: Like most other types of assignments, an argumentative essay introduction should try to capture the reader’s interest from the start. Сre is a sentence that stands out from the rest of the text. Consider using rhetorical questions, meaningful quotes, or catchy ideas. The goal is to reach your audience for a bag of popcorn right after reading the hook.
Example: Can you imagine how different our world would be without the creation of the Internet?
- Background information: After gathering the audience’s attention, the next step is to provide the necessary context to narrow the focus of the discussion. This information should not yet reveal the main argument of the body. Also, it ideally transitions the train of thought towards the thesis statement.
- thesis statement: The last sentence of the Introduction should present the argument the focal point of your entire paper. Remember – Your main goal is to defend your idea, so a thesis should state directly what your idea is and why it’s true.
Example: The invention of the Internet has helped connect the world like nothing has ever been seen before, created millions of jobs and is used by the majority of the world’s population.
Most people think that having public speaking skills is one of the most important skills to have. This is true, because the ability to speak in public can help you achieve both professional and personal goals. By public speaking, you can convey your ideas clearly and effectively, and build better relationships with your audience. It can also help you increase your confidence and self-confidence. However, while the importance of public speaking skills shouldn’t be underestimated, there are a few things to consider before doing it.
- Topic sentence: Begin with a sentence that transitions the focus from the previous paragraph to the current one. It should also introduce a main sub-argument for its special section.
Example: Along with global connectivity, the Internet and has helped create more than 10 million jobs worldwide.
- Claiming: After presenting your topic sentence, it’s time to link your main sub-arguments to your thesis statement. The goal is to explain how this validates and reinforces your central message.
Example: Thanks to the job creation it provides, most students find exciting career paths that foster development in their field and offer high wages.
- Proof: After providing a valid claim, you must defend it with factual support. These examples can be statistics, references, or logical ideas that support your claim; If this information comes from a credible external source, it will add to the overall validity of the essay.
Example: Internet technology has provided 0.15% of the world’s population with a stable income. Also, since IT related positions consistently earn more than 6 figures per year, this salary is enough to support a family of 4-5. Therefore, IT-related positions alone return slightly less than 1% of world revenue.
- Closing statement: After presenting a disputed claim and supporting it with evidence, end the body paragraph with a closing statement. The main purpose of this sentence is to summarize the overall significance of the thesis claim. In other words, why is this particular point so important?
Example: From digital marketing to software engineering, its developments have had a predominantly positive impact on society regarding utility, economy and finding one’s passion.
Actual claims are affirmations made by the author about the topic of the paragraph. This is usually a statement expressing the author’s opinion or views on the topic. Supporting evidence is information used to support actual claims. These can be facts, examples, statistical data, and others. This structure also includes analysis or interpretation of evidence provided by the author to support his or her actual claims. This analysis helps the reader understand how the evidence supports actual claims and provides further insight into the topic of the paragraph. Finally, this structure also includes a conclusion which is a summary of the entire paragraph and reconfirms the actual claims made by the author.
Based on the results of the analysis above, it can be concluded that: 1. The city of Jakarta has the highest population density in Indonesia with a population of 10,375,664 people in 2019. 2. DKI Jakarta Province has the smallest area in Indonesia with an area of 664, 01 km² in 2019. 3. The highest population growth rate in Indonesia is in the Province of Papua with an average population growth of 2.90% per year in the 2010-2019 period.
- Rerun the thesis : The first sentence of any conclusion should always be a restatement of your main message (thesis statement). Using assertive language, restate your thesis in “I have 100% proven this point”. When information is presented to an audience with confidence, they become more inclined to position themselves with that side of the argument.
- Short Summary of Sub-arguments : Most likely, the audience has forgotten some of the information you presented. For this reason, go back and review your main points, providing closure to your argument.
Example: As can be seen from the information presented above, the creation and development of the Internet is undeniably the most significant technological advancement of all time.
- Overall Conclusion Statement : To end your argumentative essay line with a BANG, presenting a memorable closing statement. Usually, this sentence will express the universal interest of the information and should leave the reader with a prompt to further investigate the topic.
Example: Realistically, our society would not have expanded exponentially without the invention of the Internet; The unparalleled value of global connectivity in seconds is unparalleled excitement, and with thorough exploration, more developments are sure to unfold.
Step 4: Editing
1. Be sure to read and follow all applicable rules. 2. Use appropriate and polite language. 3. Check your spelling and grammar carefully. 4. Do not remove important information or content from the original document. 5. Do not add false information or irrelevant content to the original document. 6. Be sure to update all links, images, and references used in the original document if necessary. 7. Don’t forget to preview your work before finishing it!
- Leave the first draft to lie down for some time before picking it up again.
- Double check grammar and punctuation when revising a draft.
- Double-check the evidence you used in your argument.
- If you have someone to proofread your work, take advantage of it.
1. Do I present strong and logical arguments? 2. Do I use relevant examples to support my argument? 3. Do I consider other views and present them fairly? 4. Do I use appropriate and effective language to convey my ideas? 5. Does this essay meet its length requirements?
- Does your thesis include statements that anyone can argue with or against?
- Are all of your arguments clearly worded and coherent?
- Did you use the best examples to support your argument?
- Have you successfully presented and refuted any counterargument(s)?
- Does the conclusion provide an interesting look into the future of this topic?
Example of argumentative essay
Essay 1: The truth is that the freedom to attack public workers is of invaluable value. By allowing people to express their views on public works, we give them the right to speak and have an opinion. This allows people to express their opinions openly and honestly, without fear of punishment or discrimination. Thus, it provides space for the government to hear the voice of its people and make better decisions. Moreover, by allowing people to attack public workers, we also give them the right to fight injustice. When someone feels that a public worker has done something wrong or unfair, he can easily voice it and push the government to take further action. This can ensure that public workers are kept under scrutiny and questioned so as not to exceed the limits set by law. However, it is important for all of us to remember that attacks on public workers must be carried out in a proper and civilized manner. The words chosen must be objective and focus on the problem not on a particular individual. It is also important for all of us to remember that attacks on public workers must be based on facts and not rumors or speculation. In this way, we can ensure that any attack on public workers is genuinely relevant and deserves government attention.