Many people find argumentative writing to be quite challenging. Instead of investigating the matter and stating their opinion on the suggested topic basing on the information they find, they frequently order custom papers from professional writers instead of merely expressing their opinion. Today, we are going to share with you ten useful tips on how to write excellent argumentative essays and slice and dice everything you need to know about this type of writing.
What Is Argumentative Writing?
An argumentative essay is a piece of critical writing where a writer expresses his opinion on a suggested topic, supporting his ideas with the help of strong, thoroughly investigated arguments. The main aim of an essay is to persuade the reader that your standpoint is logical and correct.
Characteristic Features of Argumentative Writing
Argumentative essays have the peculiarities that differ them from other types of writing:
- It allows using First Person language;
- It contains statistics, writers’ ideas, and facts;
- It can be subjective;
- The first paragraph of the argumentative writing states the argument;
- It tries to persuade the reader of the writer’s standpoints;
- The text uses references and cites to support ideas;
- An essay has a defined structure.
Ten Tips for Excellent Argumentative Writing
We have prepared ten pieces of advice that can help you create a persuasive, argumentative essay. So, take your pen and be ready to take notes:
1. It Is All About The Topic
Choosing a topic for a piece of argumentative writing is one of the hardest parts (after the fear of a blank page). There are three main rules for picking up the right topic. First of all, you should find an issue that can be supported by evidence. Thus, a question of “what’s tastier – tea or coffee” can trigger a neverending discussion and thousands of arguments, but it’s just a personal opinion. Even if the topic is controversial and arises lots of noise, it doesn’t mean you have to write about it. Choose a matter that can have some scientific or statistical backup.
The second rule concerns your interests. Make sure you are passionate about the matter. First of all, it will make the research process more fascinating and involving. Second of all, it will be easier for you to express your opinion and stand your ground.
The third rule contradicts the previous one a bit but is still valid. The topic must not get you too emotional. You must be able to process the evidence regardless of your personal beliefs.
If the topic is given at the exam, the only thing left is to do your best and convey your thoughts most compellingly.
2. Find Good Arguments
Controversial and hot arguments keep the reader hooked until the last sentence of your work. Make sure you address social media, social networks, articles to find an unexpected approach to a question asked.
3. Stick to Your Thesis Statement
Your thesis statement is your guiding star that shines through the whole structure of the essay. It’s a so-called backbone that keeps everything together and logical. Sometimes it happens that you might change your mind as you write your essay. So, you have to elaborate on all the facts and detail you have and, perhaps, only then form your thesis statement.
4. Do a Thorough Research
Imagine you are a private detective and have to find enough evidence to evaluate both sides of the issue objectively. The supporting details like results of scientific research, statistics, statements made by world leaders can make your essay look more professional and trustworthy.
5. Stick to a Structure
A structure is another backbone in argumentative writing. Fortunately, it’s quite easy to remember:
- an introduction with a thesis statement;
- the main body paragraphs that convey arguments that support the thesis statement;
- a paragraph devoted to opposing arguments;
- a conclusion, expressing your standpoint and addressing the reader.
6. Don’t Neglect Transition Words
It is essential to guide your reader through the text. Sometimes, our thoughts can be abrupt and illogical. Using transition words doesn’t only make the text easier to read but also helps you to organize your ideas more carefully.
7. Control Your Emotions
Even if the topic is too personal for you, you have to subside your emotions and convey your ideas in a clear, formal style. Make sure you support your arguments with original commentary that doesn’t have any hidden context understandable just for you or a narrow group of people.
8. Cite Your Sources
Quotes and citations prove that you have done careful research and are ready to provide strong proofs. It is one of the critical elements that can help you express your opinion and make the reader take your side.
9. Address the Opposition
Offering opposing viewpoints is a strategic step worth taking. There is a reason why it is situated right before the conclusion. The reader is already absorbed with your arguments and, then, you suddenly give them a counter-argument. But why would you need this? You are not only going to explain why the opposing viewpoint is fair but also highlight what is wrong with it. With the strong evidence that you have found, the opposition can become just another argument.
10. Stick to One Language Style
It is vital to keep to one style. In the majority of cases, argumentative essays are written in academic style. You must define the audience of your text and choose the appropriate level of style and the sophistication of the language.
