How to Write an Argumentative Essay: The Writing Process
How to Write an Argumentative Essay: The Writing Process
While the core writing process remains similar for various essay types, writing an argumentative essay requires a more focused approach. Here are the key stages:
1. Brainstorming and Thesis Development: If your assignment doesn’t provide a specific topic, take time to explore potential subjects that ignite your interest and meet the criteria discussed earlier (relevance, depth). Once you have a potential topic, use the previously mentioned guidelines to develop a strong and concise thesis statement.
2. Research and Outlining: Conduct thorough research, consulting credible sources like academic journals, reputable news outlets, and government websites. As you accumulate evidence, determine where to integrate your evidence and plan how you’ll address opposing viewpoints.
3. Drafting: With a solid foundation of research and a clear outline, start writing your rough draft. Unlike other essay formats, including data and direct quotes early in the drafting process can be particularly helpful for argumentative essays.
4. Revising and Editing: After completing your rough draft, focus on refining your language. Double-check the effectiveness of your rebuttals and ensure all your points are well-supported.
5. Proofreading and Final Touches: Once you’re satisfied with the overall structure and content of your argumentative essay, meticulously proofread your work.
To learn about how to write persuasive essay, check out our dedicated article.
Argumentative Essay Structure
While the standard five-paragraph essay is a solid foundation, some arguments demand a more nuanced approach. Here are three major formats to consider:
Aristotelian (Classic)
The Aristotelian argumentative essay structure is great for clear and direct arguments, using credibility (ethos), emotion (pathos), and logic (logos). It follows a simple format:
Introduce the problem.
Explain your perspective.
Present the opponent’s perspective and refute their points.
Present your evidence.
Conclude your argument.
Toulmin
The Toulmin structure of an argumentative essay is excellent for deep analysis and logical arguments. It includes six key parts that you can organize as needed:
Claim: Your thesis or argument.
Reasons: Your evidence and facts.
Warrant: The link between your claim and reasons, stating assumptions clearly.
Backing: Additional support for your claim.
Qualifier: Limits to your claim, including concessions.
Rebuttal: Addressing opposing viewpoints and criticisms.
Rogerian
The Rogerian method aims for a balanced approach, acknowledging both your thesis and the opposing viewpoint. It’s respectful and non-confrontational, which helps in persuading readers who might be biased against your claim. This structure will help you understand how to write a thesis statement for an argumentative essay:
Introduce the problem.
Explain the opponent’s perspective and validate correct points.
Explain your perspective.
Find common ground where both views coexist.
Conclude your balanced argument.
To learn how to write an explanatory essay, see its proper structure and writing steps in our separate guide.
Argumentative Essay Topics
Having explored effective structures for creating your argument, it’s time to select unique argumentative essay topics. Here are some key considerations:
Choose an interesting topic that will fuel your research and writing, making the process more engaging.
Select a topic with contemporary relevance. Is it an issue currently debated in society or academia?
Ensure your chosen topic offers enough depth for exploration. A well-developed argument requires sufficient evidence and analysis.
Examples:
Should historical monuments that celebrate controversial figures be removed?
Is factory farming ethical in the modern world?
Should colonizing Mars be a priority for humanity?
Can art be a form of activism and social change?
Should standardized testing be abolished in favor of alternative assessment methods?
Is the concept of a “hustle culture” detrimental to employee well-being?
For more intriguing ideas, check out our extensive list of argumentative essay topics.
Wrap-Up
So there you have it! This guide showed you how to write a strong argumentative essay. We discussed choosing a topic, using facts, and writing clearly. If you need extra push, use our dissertation writing services to create essays that engage and persuade your readers!
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