Argumentative Essays

argumentative essay definition and structure

Did you know that 31.5% of the students’ argumentative essays writing is not up to expectations? Either they lack in presenting arguments or counterclaims or get stuck in starting or closing the essay.

Every problem could be solved if you follow this detailed guide on writing an argumentative essay. It briefly explains every factor, including the step-by-step process, examples, structure, and a comprehensive template.

What is an Argumentative Essay?

Before jumping over to the writing process, first understand what is an argumentative essay.It is a type of essay writing in which the author presents arguments and counterarguments from both sides of the issue.Argumentative writing follows a persuasive tone to convince the reader of your point of view; hence, the writer should focus more on supportive arguments than rebuttals.

How to Write an Argumentative Essay​

Without wasting more time, let’s learn how to write an argumentative essay. But first, consult your instructor about the essay’s length and how many arguments and counterclaims must be added.

  • To choose good argumentative essays, always focus on the deadline and word count limit in the beginning. 
  • Search real-time libraries, course books, and online databases and find stats and evidence to prove the claims.
  • Develop a strong thesis statement for argumentative essay before composing the outline of an argumentative essay.
  • Now, make the argumentative essay outline, including an introduction, body, and conclusion. 
  • Now, write the argumentative essay according to the structure given below.
  • To cite the references, follow MLA, APA, or Chicago format as per guidelines.
  • Re-read the argumentative essays and correct typos, grammar or any other mistakes.

Argumentative Essay Structure​ includes three elements an introduction, a body, and a conclusion

Argumentative Essay Structure

The structure for an argumentative essay involves three major elements: an introduction, a body, and a conclusion. Here is a comprehensive breakdown of the argumentative essay format.

Argumentative Essay Introduction

The introduction of argumentative essay sets the stage for the argument that will be presented throughout the essay. It is subdivided into 3 sections which are:

  • A hook to engage the reader from the start.
  • A topic background to connect the reader with the broader theme.
  • A thesis statement to tell the reader what side you will support and why.

Argumentative Essay Body Paragraph

The body of argumentative essays presents evidence and counterarguments related to the topic. Watch out for the argument essay body paragraph examples to craft an essay with different types of arguments.

Supporting Para (s) 1,2,3

  • A topic sentence that tells what the supporting paragraph is about. “A school uniform is a symbol of unity and discipline”
  • Solid evidence and reasoning to enhance your argument. “A survey states that 90% of parents and teachers believe the kids should wear uniforms for unity”
  • Explain how the evidence supports your claim. “The above stats show that most parents and teachers want uniforms to be a part of school, ultimately improving unity and discipline.”
  • A smooth transition sentence to help you jump to another paragraph. “However, not just unity and discipline, wearing a uniform is also cost-effective.”

Counter Argument

  • Identify 1 or 2 counter-arguments and tell how they prove your arguments wrong. “Some people oppose uniforms as these could restrict personal style and creativity.”
  • Gently refute those counterarguments. “Uniforms promote equality and reduce distractions, allowing creativity to shine through actions rather than appearance.”
  • Inform the reader that your arguments are more genuine, even if you agree with the opponent.

Argumentative Essay Closing Paragraph

The argumentative essay conclusion section leaves the reader with a final, impactful thought.

  • Recap the broad topic in 1 or 2 sentence
  • Restate the main thesis
  • Add a call-to-action sentence to encourage the reader to make a decision.

Argumentative Essay Template

Why stuck with structuring your essay when you have a ready template in hand? Use the argument essay template outlined below as a roadmap for your next assignment. This pdf template is downloadable and you can edit it according to your needs. Empty spaces are assigned for every section. All you need to do is find evidence and fill it out in the template for an argumentative essay.

Types of Argumentative Essays

There are 3 different types of argumentative essays based on their structural appearance. Classical (Aristotelian) types of argument in essays are mostly used in academic writing. Rogerian and Toulmin’s argument essays are addressed in a professional setting where finding common ground and understanding opposing perspectives is crucial.

Argumentative Essay Tips

Want to write a good argumentative essay? Then follow the belowtips for writing an argumentative essay.

  • Collect at least three topics of interest. Choose one that has more supportive arguments.
  • For a more professional-looking essay, follow the paragraph starter for argumentative essay.
  • Each body paragraph should support only one argument and must be backed with evidence and reasoning.
  • Follow the transition words for argumentative essays to ensure your paragraphs flow naturally.
  • Give 80% of the content to the body paragraphs and 10% to each introduction and conclusion.

Argumentative Essay Topics

So far, we have successfully explained the argumentative essay structure and writing process. But we still miss a piece of the puzzle: good argumentative writing topics. Worry not; we also solved this problem by offering you the 10 best topics to argue about in your next assignment.

  • Should immigrants be allowed permanent residency?
  • Is a part-time job a good idea for college students?
  • Which political party has the correct principles?
  • Who is the most righteous scientist on the earth?
  • Should the government stricten its policies for drug consumers?
  • Why is telling a lie good in some situations?
  • Who can operate a country better? Female or Male
  • Should the IT sector allow employees to do remote jobs?
  • What food is good for kid’s health?
  • Should we eat raw sugar?

Argumentative Essay Examples

Looking for a strong argumentative essay example? Check out our in-depth exploration of 3 best examples of argumentative essays. However, these examples are based on three types of argument essays, including classical, rogerian, and Toulmin. No matter what kind of argument the instructor asks, these examples will help you make your essay stand out.

Need Help With Your Argumentative Essays?

You may have learned to write an argumentative essay, but sometimes, the deadline could be a hurdle. In such a situation, finding a reliable and professional essay service could save you from falling behind. 

Hiring these experts will make sure you get a well-written essay backed with supported arguments. In short, an A+ grade is guaranteed by just spending some pennies on your argumentative essay writing.

Final Thoughts

Try presenting your arguments after following this detailed guide on writing argumentative essays. We recommend reading this blog twice to ensure your doubts have faded away. You can learn more about writing an argumentative essay in our other blogs on argumentative essay examples, step-by-step processes, and argumentative topics. If still, something seems missing? Don’t hesitate to contact us.

FAQs

Argumentative essays should start by presenting a hook to captivate the reader from the beginning. You could start with an engaging question, stat, quotation, anecdote, or intriguing statement to make the opening impressive.

Yes, the rebuttal is a mandatory section in an argumentative essay that provides counterclaims opposed to your arguments. Without rebuttals and counterclaims, a reader can’t understand why your point of view is stronger.

An argumentative text is used to convince the reader by presenting arguments and reasoning. A literary text aims to evoke emotions in the reader using compelling narrative and storytelling techniques.

To make a good introduction for an argumentative essay, try to engage the reader from the beginning. You can do that by mentioning a hook, background information, and a thesis statement in a sequence.

A single reason is acceptable only when an argumentative essay is assigned to an elementary school kid. However, A high school and college student requires multiple reasonings and arguments to convince the reader.
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