How to Write an Argumentative Essay

If you have ever needed to know how to write an Argumentative Essay this guide is an easy way to learn how. Written by a former English teacher, the process is explained in full detail, and is designed to help you write your next paper.

Instructions

Difficulty: Moderate

Things You’ll Need:

• your topic and statement you wish to argue
• research to back up your statement

1. First, know the point of the essay. Basically you have something to say (making a point) and it is your job to defend (or argue) it. Make sure your statement that you wish to argue is going to be backed up with a lot of factual research, as if you don’t your essay may veer to the way of an opinion or editorial piece.
2. After you have your research, develop your thesis statement. Make sure it is the main point that you are arguing and that it is direct and to the point. All of your paragraphs are going to be built around this thesis statement, so make sure you have enough research and you have clearly taken a position on your issue. For example if you are going to argue that a apple is better for you than a candy bar, you can use you research and have a paragraph that focuses on both items’ nutritional content, research from a dental publication showing the detrimental damage candy does to teeth, and one about obesity and contributing factors of obesity. You could also have a paragraph about the USDA food groups and how candy does not fit in the food pyramid, but apples do.
3. Next, look over your essay to make sure that for every statement there is a reaction. If you are going to say something positive for your argument (meaning your support something), make sure you balance it out with something negative (against what you are not for). For example: Apples contain approximately 60 calories per serving, where as candy bars contain approximately 240 calories per serving. At the end of this statement, if your instructor or teacher requires citations, you can place them there.
4. Finally, when you are done, read you essay out loud. Does it sound like a convincing argument to you? If so, good job! Should it not sound “strong” enough, go back and make more points for your belief and more negatives for what you are against. In the last paragraph summarize and bring to a close. Remember to incorporate your thesis idea as close to the end as possible, as you will leave your reader with that as their lasting impression.

Tips & Warnings

• Make sure you read your essay out loud when you are done.
• If when reading, something doesn't seem right, go back and check your grammar and punctuation.