Nova A.
Nova A.

The Ultimate Guide to Argumentative Essay Writing

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argumentative essay guide

Are you struggling to write an argumentative essay? Do you want to learn the essential tips and techniques to craft a convincing argument? 

Argumentative essay writing needs more than just a personal opinion. It requires you to present evidence and facts to support a claim. But where do you begin?

Look no further! This blog post will provide an in-depth guide on how to write an effective argumentative essay. 

Read on to learn how to craft a perfect argumentative essay in this simple step-by-step guide.

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  • 1. What is an Argumentative Essay?
  • 2. How To Write An Argumentative Essay? 
  • 3. Argumentative Essay Format 
  • 4. Five Types of Argument Claims
  • 5. Three Argument Structures and How To Use Them
  • 6. Argumentative Essay Examples with Analysis
  • 7. Good Argumentative Essay Topics for Students

What is an Argumentative Essay?

An argumentative essay is a type of essay where the writer takes a strong stance on an issue and presents arguments for it. 

These essays are built around a central argument. The arguments must be supported by logical evidence and facts. The primary purpose of an argumentative essay is to persuade readers to accept the writer's point of view on a particular topic.

Students often mix up argumentative essays and persuasive essays. The big difference is that an argumentative essay uses strong evidence and facts to prove a point, while a persuasive essay tries to convince readers by appealing to their emotions and beliefs. 

How To Write An Argumentative Essay? 

Argumentative essays are the most common type of essays for High School and College students. These essays require strong critical thinking skills and the ability to analyze a topic at a deeper level.

Here are the steps involved in argumentative essay writing: 

  1. Choose a Topic
  2. Research Thoroughly
  3. Create an Outline
  4. Write an  Introduction
  5. Develop Body Paragraphs 
  6. Use Counter Arguments 
  7. Conclude Your Argumentative Essay
  8. Argumentative Essay Graphic Organizer

Here is a step-by-step descriptive guide on how to start an argumentative essay:

Step 1. Choose a Topic 

Pick a debatable topic that interests you and has ample research material. A debatable topic is one that has multiple perspectives and can be argued for or against. It should also be a topic with ample research material available, so you can find enough evidence to support your arguments.

Your essay title should reflect the central theme and stance of your argument, such as "Should school uniforms be mandatory in public schools?"

Step 2. Research Thoroughly

Once you have chosen your topic, the next step is to gather information. Thorough research is the foundation of a strong argumentative essay. Here's how to approach it:

  • Identify Sources (articles, books, credible websites)
  • Collect Data (facts, statistics, quotes, and examples)
  • Take Notes
  • Evaluate Sources (Peer-reviewed articles, books, reports) 
  • Record Citations

For Example:

Benefit of Uniforms: "A study by the National Association of Elementary School Principals found that schools with uniforms reported 30% fewer incidents of bullying."

Drawback of Uniforms: "Opponents argue that uniforms suppress individuality and creativity, which are important aspects of personal development."

Step 3. Create an Outline

An outline helps organize your thoughts and structure your essay. For argumentative essays, consider using a basic essay outline structure like the five-paragraph essay format for shorter essays. 

However, for longer argumentative essays, where complex issues and detailed research are involved, you may need a more intricate and detailed outline to address all aspects of the topic comprehensively. 

Here's a basic outline template, for more detailed structure read our argumentative essay outline blog:

Argumentative Essay Outline

I. Introduction

  • Hook: Start with an attention-grabbing sentence or question.
  • Background Information: Provide context for the topic.
  • Thesis Statement: Clearly state your argument or position on the issue.

II. Body

A. Body Paragraph 1

  • Topic Sentence: Introduce the first argument or point that supports your thesis.
  • Supporting Evidence: Present facts, statistics, examples, or expert opinions that support your argument.
  • Explanation: Explain how the evidence supports your point.
  • Counterargument: Address a potential counterargument and refute it.

B. Body Paragraph 2

(Follow the same format as Paragraph 1)

C. Body Paragraph 3

(Follow the same format as Paragraph 1)

III. Counter Arguments

  • Acknowledge Counterarguments: Summarize the main counterarguments to your thesis.
  • Refutation: Provide strong evidence and reasoning to refute each counterargument.

IV. Conclusion

  • Restate your thesis statement
  • Summarize Main Points
  • End with a memorable closing statement 

V. References or Works Cited

List all the sources you've used for research, following the appropriate citation style (e.g., APA, MLA).

Step 4. Write the Introduction

An argumentative essay introduction clearly states the writer’s claim that he will make in the essay. The introductory paragraph should be logical and intellectual and should be written persuasively.

Here are three steps you can follow to write a very persuasive argumentative essay introduction:

  1. Start with a hook: Begin your introduction paragraph with a strong hook that gives the reader a hint about your argument.

  2. Give background information: Provide brief background information necessary to understand the argument.

  3. State the thesis: Lay a solid foundation for your claim by stating your thesis statement. The thesis statement is a concise, clear, and one-sentence summary of the whole essay. It should be informative, engaging, arguable, and valid.

Here is the thesis statement example for an argumentative essay:

"Public schools should implement uniform policies because they promote a sense of community, reduce distractions in the classroom, and contribute to a more equal educational environment."

Step 5. Develop Body Paragraphs

The body paragraphs involve topic sentences and evidence, either against or supporting a certain point of view. 

Here are three simple steps for crafting the body paragraphs:

  1. Topic sentence: Start each body paragraph with a topic sentence that defines only one specific idea and supports the main claim.
  2. Provide evidence: Provide as much supporting evidence as required to convince the reader. Remember! The argument has no value if it is not backed with proper and relevant evidence from credible sources.
  3. Concluding remarks: End the paragraph with a concluding remark and smoothly transition to the next body paragraph.

Expert Tip

Smoothly transition between paragraphs in your argumentative essay using transition words like "however," "therefore," "moreover," and "nevertheless." These words help maintain the flow of your ideas, ensuring your essay is easy to follow and logically structured.

Step 6. Use Counter Arguments

This counter-argument paragraph contains the opposing point of view that a reader may pose against your main argument. This paragraph aims to prove that the opposing side is wrong by providing facts and evidence.

Below are the four steps to write a counter-argument paragraph:

  1. State the counter-arguments: Present all the counter-arguments one by one.
     
  2. State your response: Provide your response towards the counter-arguments.

  3. Refute the opposing claims: Refute the opposite claims, one by one, with facts and evidence.

  4. Conclusion: Conclude the paragraph by reasserting your main claim of the essay.

Step 7. Conclude Your Argumentative Essay

The conclusion needs to be logical and precise and inspire the reader to agree with your claim. It should provide the final stance about the argument, which tells that your side of the argument is right.

Here are the three steps to writing an effective argumentative essay conclusion:

  1. Summarize the argument: Sum up the entire essay and rewrite the thesis statement.

  2. Stick to the plan: Don’t introduce any new argument here; just synthesize all the information presented in the body paragraph.

  3. Call to action: End your essay by providing a call to action.

Step 8. Argumentative Essay Graphic Organizer

Before wrapping up your essay, review the graphic organizer provided below. This will help ensure your essay is well-structured and each part, from introduction to conclusion, is properly developed and supported. 

This final check makes sure your essay is cohesive, persuasive, and thoroughly addresses your chosen topic.

argumentative-essay-graphic-organizer

Argumentative Essay Format 

For writing a good argumentative essay formatting is equally important. Here are some formatting guidelines for composing a well-written and visually appealing argumentative essay:

  • Paper Size: Standard (8.5 x 11 inches) or A4 with 1-inch margins.
  • Font: Times New Roman, Arial, or Calibri, size 12, double-spaced.
  • Title Page: Essay title, name, instructor, course, submission date.
  • Header: Last name, page number (Arabic numerals).
  • Title: Centered, bolded, capitalize major words.
  • Citations: Use proper citation style (APA, MLA, Chicago).
  • References: Include a separate page for sources.

These formatting guidelines are general standards. Always follow the specific instructions provided by your institute or professor for any additional requirements.

Five Types of Argument Claims

There are five types of arguable claims that you can support in your essay. These include factual claims, definition claims, value claims, cause-and-effect claims, and policy claims.

Let's discuss each type in detail:

Factual Claims

These claims focus on facts and events that have occurred in the past. They can be supported with evidence such as statistics, examples, or expert opinions.

For instance, you could write an argumentative essay to support the claim that global warming is a man-made phenomenon. You would present evidence such as scientific research findings and expert opinions to back up your argument.

Definition Claims

These claims focus on the definition of something or a concept. You can use logic, historical facts, and evidence to support a definition claim.

For example, you could write an argumentative essay to define what “success” means for a person or organization. You would need to back up your definition by providing evidence from experts or historical data.

Value Claims

These claims focus on the value of something and can be supported with facts and expert opinions.

For instance, you could write an argumentative essay to argue that technology has a positive effect on our lives. You would present evidence such as surveys and studies that show how technology has made life easier and more efficient.

Cause and Effect Claims

These claims focus on how one event or action leads to another. They can be supported with evidence such as experimental data.

For example, you could write an argumentative essay to argue that poverty causes crime. You would need to present evidence from experts and other sources to back up your claim.

Policy Claims

These claims focus on specific initiatives or policies that people want to implement. They can be supported with evidence from experts and other sources.

For instance, you could write an argumentative essay with the data to support the implementation of a new government policy for healthcare reform. You would need to provide evidence such as reports and studies on the issue to back up your claim.

So, there are five types of arguable claims that you can make in your essay. Each type requires its own unique approach. 

Three Argument Structures and How To Use Them

There are three main types of argument structures that may be used in an essay. Let's see how each of them works:

Classical (Aristotelian) Argument

The classical argument structure is the oldest and most common type of argument. This model has its roots in the works of the ancient Greek philosopher Aristotle. 

It consists of five parts: 

  • Introduction
  • Your Arguments
  • Counter Arguments
  • Refutation
  • Conclusion

To construct a classical argument essay, you would need to:

  1. Present your position on an issue
  2. Provide evidence to support it
  3. Acknowledge opposing views
  4. Refute those views with evidence
  5. Conclude by summarizing the main points.

Rogerian Argument

The Rogerian model is used in essays where the main purpose is to find a common ground between opposing sides. It was developed by psychologist Carl Rogers.

It consists of four parts: 

  • Introduction
  • Both Sides Of An Issue
  • Common Ground
  • Conclusion

To construct a Rogerian argument essay, you would need:

  1. To present your side of the issue
  2. Acknowledge and present the opposing view
  3. Find a point of agreement between them
  4. Conclude by summarizing the main points.

Toulmin Argument

The Toulmin structure is less common than the other two but it has its own unique style. This model was developed by British philosopher Stephen Toulmin. It consists of six parts:

  1. Introduction
  2. Claim
  3. Grounds
  4. Backing
  5. Qualifier
  6. Rebuttal of opposing arguments
  7. Conclusion.

To construct a Toulmin model argument, you have to:

  1. Present your claim on an issue
  2. Provide evidence to back it up (grounds)
  3. Support that evidence with additional information (backing)
  4. Acknowledge any possible exceptions (qualifier)
  5. Refute the counter-arguments (rebuttal)
  6. Conclude by summarizing the main points.

Watch this video that explains the three different types in detail:

Argumentative Essay Examples with Analysis

Sample essays play a vital role in understanding the structure of an essay. So check out the examples with the analysis below and do not forget to read our argumentative essay examples blog for more sample essays.

Short Argumentative Essay Example

Public Libraries vs. Tablets

As online learning gains traction, a debate ensues: should public libraries be replaced by tablets? Proponents argue that this move would save costs and enhance access to reading materials. However, such a transition would be shortsighted and detrimental for several reasons.

Firstly, while digital resources offer convenience, studies show they hinder learning compared to print. Research reveals that tablet readers are slower, retain less information, and comprehend less than print readers. Additionally, prolonged screen exposure leads to various health issues, including eye strain and musculoskeletal problems.

Secondly, libraries offer diverse services beyond book lending, fostering community cohesion and knowledge exchange. Community events and study spaces provided by libraries create invaluable connections that tablets cannot replicate.

While the notion of replacing libraries with tablets may seem pragmatic, it risks exacerbating screen dependency and depriving communities of essential services.

Analysis:

Strengths:

  • The essay strategically introduces the counter-argument, positioning the thesis later, allowing the focus to remain on supporting the author's perspective.
  • It incorporates factual data to substantiate claims, bolstering the argument's credibility.
  • Each counter-argument is effectively rebutted, reinforcing the author's stance.

Improvements:

  • To enhance depth, the essay could include more detailed examples illustrating the benefits of libraries to communities.
  • Personal experiences should be omitted in favor of additional data on screen-related health issues.
  • Accuracy of points, such as the cost comparison between digital and physical books, should be ensured through thorough research.

Argumentative Essay Example 

Renewable Energy vs. Fossil Fuels

With the growing concern over climate change, the debate between renewable energy and fossil fuels has intensified. While some advocate for a swift transition to renewable sources, others argue for the continued use of fossil fuels. However, a closer examination reveals that renewable energy is the more viable and sustainable option for our future.

Renewable energy, such as solar and wind power, offers numerous environmental benefits. Unlike fossil fuels, which release harmful greenhouse gases into the atmosphere, renewable sources produce clean energy with minimal environmental impact. Additionally, renewable energy technologies are becoming increasingly efficient and cost-effective, making them competitive alternatives to fossil fuels.

Furthermore, reliance on fossil fuels poses significant risks to both the environment and public health. From oil spills to air pollution, the extraction, transportation, and combustion of fossil fuels contribute to environmental degradation and respiratory diseases. Transitioning to renewable energy would mitigate these risks and promote a healthier, more sustainable future for all.

While opponents argue that renewable energy is intermittent and unreliable, technological advancements have addressed these concerns. Battery storage and smart grid technologies enable the efficient storage and distribution of renewable energy, ensuring reliability and stability in the power grid.

In conclusion, the benefits of renewable energy far outweigh those of fossil fuels. Not only does renewable energy offer cleaner and safer alternatives, but it also fosters economic growth and job creation in the renewable energy sector. By embracing renewable energy, we can mitigate climate change, protect our environment, and ensure a brighter future for generations to come.

Analysis:

Strengths:

  • The essay effectively presents the counter-argument before asserting the thesis, allowing for a clear focus on supporting renewable energy.
  • It utilizes factual evidence to substantiate claims, enhancing the argument's credibility and persuasiveness.
  • Counter-arguments are systematically addressed and refuted, reinforcing the superiority of renewable energy.

Improvements:

  • To deepen the analysis, the essay could provide additional examples of the environmental and health impacts of fossil fuels.
  • Incorporating data on the economic benefits of renewable energy would further strengthen the argument.
  • Ensuring accuracy in all points and evidence presented is essential to maintain credibility and persuasiveness.

Also, check out the following free argumentative essay examples provided in PDF format: 

Good Argumentative Essay Topics for Students

Choosing a topic for an argumentative essay is way more complicated than choosing a topic for any other essay. To get enough material to write about, we have compiled some easy argumentative essay topics for students. 

Check out these topics and visit our argumentative essay topics blog for more ideas:

Science: 

  • The ethical implications of genetic engineering in humans.
  • The effectiveness of vaccination in preventing the spread of diseases.
  • The impact of climate change on biodiversity and ecosystems.
  • The ethics of animal testing in scientific research.
  • The role of artificial intelligence in shaping the future of scientific discovery.

Technology: 

  • The influence of social media on mental health and well-being.
  • The pros and cons of implementing facial recognition technology in public spaces.
  • The impact of automation on employment opportunities and the workforce.
  • The ethical considerations of data privacy in the digital age.
  • The role of technology in addressing climate change and environmental sustainability.

Health:

  • The benefits and drawbacks of a plant-based diet for overall health.
  • The legalization of marijuana for medicinal purposes.
  • The impact of fast food on obesity rates and public health.
  • The accessibility of mental health services for underserved communities.
  • The effectiveness of school-based nutrition programs in combating childhood obesity.

Government: 

  • The necessity of implementing stricter gun control laws to reduce gun violence.
  • The role of government in regulating social media platforms to combat misinformation.
  • The impact of immigration policies on national security and economic growth.
  • The effectiveness of affirmative action policies in promoting diversity and equality.
  • The pros and cons of implementing universal basic income to address poverty and inequality.

Education: 

  • The effectiveness of standardized testing in evaluating student performance.
  • The importance of incorporating financial literacy education into school curricula.
  • The impact of technology on traditional classroom learning.
  • The benefits of bilingual education in promoting cultural diversity and language acquisition.
  • The role of arts education in fostering creativity and critical thinking skills.

To finish it off,

Argumentative essay writing requires strong research and analysis skills to develop a sound argument. With the right planning and structure, anyone can write an effective argumentative essay. 

Now that you have learned about the basics of writing an argumentative essay, it is time to start putting your ideas into practice. Choose a topic that you are passionate about and start writing! 

However, we understand that students face many difficulties while writing an essay. If you are one of them, don’t worry, we’ve got a solution for you!

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Frequently Asked Questions

What Are the 5 Main Parts of an Argumentative Essay?

FAQ Icon

The five main parts of an argumentative essay are:

  1. Claim
  2. Reason
  3. Evidence
  4. Counter-claim
  5. Rebuttal

What Are Some Transition Words For Argumentative Essays?

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Here are some essential transition words and phrases to strengthen your argumentative essays:

  • Firstly
  • Additionally
  • However
  • Similarly
  • On the contrary
  • Moreover
  • For instance
  • Consequently
  • Nonetheless
  • In conclusion

Argumentative Essay Vs Expository Essay, What's The Difference?

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In an argumentative essay, the writer presents a claim or argument and supports it with evidence, aiming to persuade the reader to adopt their viewpoint. In contrast, an expository essay aims to inform or explain a topic, presenting facts, analysis, and evidence without necessarily taking a stance or trying to persuade the reader.

What Are 3 Best Tips For Writing A Good Argumentative Essay?

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The 3 best tips for writing a good argumentative essay are: 

  • Support arguments with credible evidence like statistics or expert opinions to bolster validity.
  • Enhance clarity by using analogies and metaphors for vivid illustration.
  • Make arguments more engaging and persuasive by infusing your unique perspective and voice.

When Is An Argumentative Essay Written?

FAQ Icon

An argumentative essay is written in various contexts, including:

  • Academic assignments
  • Debates and discussions
  • Opinion pieces
  • Policy proposals
  • Persuasive speeches
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Nova A.

WRITTEN BY

Nova A.

Nova Allison is a Digital Content Strategist with over eight years of experience. Nova has also worked as a technical and scientific writer. She is majorly involved in developing and reviewing online content plans that engage and resonate with audiences. Nova has a passion for writing that engages and informs her readers.

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