How to Write an Argument Essay?

Guide for writing influential Argument Essays with easy to understand instructions and compelling tips. This article includes 6 powerful steps and 10 incredible tips for helping you to write better Argument essays.

An argument essay is a chance for a writer to make a case for their side of an argument and involves heavy use of factual evidence to do so. It is far more detailed than an advantage and disadvantage essay as it requires lots of facts for every point made and it is only through this evidence that the reader can be expected to be persuaded. This article will help a writer of an argument essay learn how to make a convincing document for whatever stance they take on an issue.

What Is An Argument Essay?

Argument essays are written to give favor to a certain opinion on an issue. Unlike persuasive essays that tend to be general, argument papers tend to be very specific and use factual evidence to make their case. For instance, a persuasive essay will look at the benefits of solar power over hydroelectricity, while an argument essay will look at the benefits of solar power over hydroelectricity in the Sahara Desert. In this way an argument essay will look at a specific area and use data from the region to make a conclusive argument for or against the issue.

So remember that in writing an argument essay, there must be more than just shallow or persuasive language used. Do not rely on ‘what if’ situations, recount real situations and outcomes. This kind of essay is not about being imaginative, it is about being factual.

Instructions (Steps)

1. Picking a topic

It is helpful to pick a topic on which one is familiar with. If the writer has a very personal and passionate opinion on the subject matter, they should be careful to stick to only those claims they can prove and make a case for. If one goes overboard and makes their case based on private feelings, they open themselves up to ridicule.

A good topic is one on which a writer can easily and factually make an argument for while still being able to bring out the strong assertions of the opposing side. Failure to acknowledge the strong arguments from the other side will make the paper seem not well researched and highly unbalanced. The last thing a writer wishes to be known as is biased.

2. Research

This is probably the most important step for anyone writing an argument essay. Every point being made and opinion being given should be steeped in facts, figures from reports, articles and books from reputable sources. This helps a writer to learn the opinions of experts in the field and identify the strongest points for their case. It also helps them to know what strong arguments the opposing side uses and how to counter them.

Research helps to open the writer to a plethora of reputable resources that will make his or her argument better argued and rich in factual evidence. It is important the writer ensures they have done research for both sides of the argument. If he or she is pulled into a public discussion on the same, doing this research will help them respond in a coherent and convincing manner. Having the necessary knowledge at one’s fingertips is vital in such situations.

3. Making an outline

When doing the research, one should have an outline prepared. Within the outline, the writer can arrange the points, starting with the strongest to the weakest. When researching each point, the writer will be able to list the sub-points and evidence to back up the claim.

4. Introduction

In the introduction the write should give some background information n the topic at hand and state their position on the matter. This is the same as stating one’s thesis statement. The writer can then add that the following work will demonstrate the validity of their argument.

5. Main body

It is within this section that the writer can then make his or her case. The main arguments should be presented here with the relevant evidence to support it. Depending on how the teacher expects the paper to be presented, the number of paragraphs and arguments may vary. The opponents’ arguments should also be fairly represented, however, they must be sensibly refuted or a counterargument made that will still allow for the writer’s opinion to remain more favourable.

6. Conclusion

The conclusion is the culmination of all the arguments made in the main body. The writer can make reference to their main arguments and restate their thesis statement.

Tips

1. Research

This point cannot be overemphasized. Any point made must be well researched and the facts clearly presented. Failure to do this means presenting a weak argument.

2. Provide a balanced argument

Just as the writer is going to predictably bias the case in his or her favour, it is important to ensure that the main arguments of the opposing side are mentioned. The opposing side must be represented and not with weak points but strong ones.

3. Opinion

Have someone else give a second opinion on the essay. This helps to identify the weaknesses the writer may not have addressed in their argument. This also means someone else can check on the grammar usage and pinpoints errors the writer would not have noticed.

4. Do not get emotional

Most argument essays are based on topics that the writer is passionate about. They should however not let their personal feelings run the show. An argument essay is about giving factual information to back up one’s claims and assertions. Let the facts speak for themselves rather than emotions. Failure to do so will have the reader dismiss the essay as being too emotive.

5. Cite your resources.

Make use of referencing techniques to quote the resources of your facts. When a reader is able to or at least given the chance, of tracing the resource for themselves, it lends an air of credibility to your assertions.

6. Consult with the teacher

Consult with the teacher or professor on how many points they expect to be illustrated. A writer can also depend on the papers of previous students to act as a guideline.

7. Facts

Do not invent facts. Giving false information can be detrimental to academic work or even professional credibility. This is the kind of thing to bring down a person’s career. Do not allow for there to be any doubt as to the authenticity of facts, or the source of the facts.

8. Stick to reputable sources

Stick to reputable sources. If you are providing national statistics, look to national or government bodies to provide the figures. Do not go to unknown online sources as this will also affect the credibility of your case.

9. Master and memorize your facts and figures

Master and memorize your facts and figures. Whether the argument essay is for public consumption or a class assignment, be sure to know the main arguments and the evidence that backs it up. You may be called upon to defend your essay and what it asserts so be sure to have the information on your fingertips.

10. Be clear on both sides of the issue

Be clear on both sides of the issue. As you make your case, remember that each point must have an argument against it. Ensure you have the necessary points to make your own still stand. Do not leave yourself open to counterarguments you cannot defend against. It is like a debate, be ready for your opponent at all times.

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