A persuasive essay requires more than just an opinion to make your point stand out. Even the strongest position won’t hold water if it isn’t organized correctly and supported by reasoned arguments and reliable data. With this simple step-by-step instruction, you will discover what components any argumentative essay should have and how to organize it based on your intended audience.  

What is an Argumentative Essay?  

Argumentative or persuasive writing is a type of rhetorical mode that aims to convince the reader of the writer’s point of view. Contrary to popular belief, argumentative essays do not have to be confrontational or violent. Instead, they derive their title from their method of argumentation, wherein the author presents ample research to support their claim while refuting opposing viewpoints. The purpose of these essays is to show that the author’s thesis is the most logical conclusion.   

In universities, argumentative essays are the most common type of essays students are provided to write. Strong argumentative essays support their positions with a wealth of empirical data from several studies and other sources. Writing an argumentative essay can be challenging and requires choosing a good topic, conducting research, and structuring the content to support the thesis statement. Below, we outline the most effective techniques for crafting a flawless argumentative essay.  

Basic Stages of Persuasive Essay  

The goal of an academic essay is to persuade readers of a position or perspective through informed arguments supported with evidence and analysis. However, writing an academic essay involves 3 main stages: preparation, drafting, and revision.  

Preparatory Stage  

During the preparatory stage of writing an argumentative essay, it’s crucial to lay the groundwork for your argument. Firstly, take the time to thoroughly understand the assignment requirements and guidelines. Once you have a clear grasp of what’s expected, then follow these steps to write an effective argumentative essay:  

Choosing the essay topic

• Brainstorm and select a subject with plenty of academic sources to develop a strong thesis statement.  
• Avoid simple and vague topics; choose a specific research subject you like.  
• Pro-tip: Choose the topic with the most sources to add value and credibility to your paper.  

Creating an outline

• Make a simple outline with basic information or a more complete one with summaries and sources.  
• Pro-tip: Add an approximation of how long each paragraph will be for better organization.  

Writing Stage  

In this stage, work on dividing the work and beginning with the fundamental structure of an argumentative essay: the simple five-paragraph format, suitable for most short essays. Follow these steps to write each section argumentative and logical.  

Introduction Paragraph  

The start of an argumentative essay, much like other academic essays, commences with an introduction. Its purpose is to engage the reader, capture the reader’s attention, and in lengthier essays, outline the body’s structure.  

• Inform the reader of what will be covered in the essay.   
• Provide a general context on your chosen topic (background information, overview of important academic work or debates, explanation of difficult terms)  
• Introduce the thesis statement – the central argument you’re going to make.  
• Write about what type of sources (primary or secondary) you have used to back up your arguments.  
• Hook the reader with a current problem or strong statistics.   
• Pro-tip: Write between 100 and 150 words for the introductory paragraph.  

Example:   

In recent years, the debate surrounding climate change has intensified as scientists continue to warn of its dire consequences. With global temperatures on the rise and extreme weather events becoming more frequent, the urgency to address climate change has never been greater. This essay explores the role of human activity in driving climate change and argues for immediate action to mitigate its impacts. By examining key scientific findings, journals, and societal implications, we aim to highlight the critical importance of adopting sustainable practices and policies to safeguard our planet for future generations.  

In this example, these highlighted colors indicate the particular ideas.

• Thesis Statement, Sources, General Background  

Body Paragraphs  

 In an argumentative essay, the body is where you expand on your arguments. Each paragraph, introduced by a topic sentence, should contribute to your main argument. In shorter essays, the body typically consists of three paragraphs out of five, while longer essays may have more paragraphs or sections with headings. 

• Make arguments supporting your thesis. 
• Address the main issues within your topic and state the contrary perspective to strengthen your argument. 
• Limit one idea per paragraph and use connectors to build a naturally flowing structure. 
• Introduce the purpose of each paragraph using topic sentences. 
• Present evidence by providing data, examples, or quotes. 
• Interpret and explain the evidence. 
• Pro-tip: Use as many sources as needed to add value to your statements. 

Example: 

One crucial aspect of addressing climate change is reducing carbon emissions from fossil fuel consumption. According to a study by the Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change (IPCC), carbon emissions from burning fossil fuels are the primary driver of global warming (IPCC, 2018). Additionally, data from the World Health Organization (WHO) indicates that air pollution resulting from fossil fuel combustion is responsible for millions of premature deaths annually (WHO, 2018). This evidence highlights the urgent need to transition to renewable energy sources and decrease reliance on fossil fuels to mitigate climate change and improve public health. By reducing carbon emissions from fossil fuel consumption, we can address the root cause of climate change and its associated health impacts. 

In this example, these highlighted colors indicate the particular ideas.

Topic Sentence, Supporting Evidence, Interpretation of evidence 

Conclusion Paragraph

In an argumentative essay, the conclusion wraps up the arguments from the body. It doesn’t introduce new ideas but might discuss strengths, weaknesses, and some solutions. 

• Summarize and tie together the points made in the essay’s body. 
• Show the outcome of your arguments – what new insight have you provided 
• Emphasize why your argument matters. 
• Pro-tip: Do not add new information to the conclusion. 

Example: 

In conclusion, urgent action is imperative to address climate change by reducing carbon emissions from fossil fuel consumption. Transitioning to renewable energy sources is crucial to mitigate these impacts and secure a sustainable future. The essay underscores the necessity for immediate action from all stakeholders, emphasizing the profound consequences of inaction on the planet and future generations. 

Revisionary Stage 

During the revisionary stage, it’s crucial to thoroughly review and refine your work to ensure its clarity, coherence, and accuracy. 

• Review your arguments to ensure the logic and coherence of the points you’ve made in your writing. 
• Check any grammar, spelling, and formatting errors while looking for inconsistencies to make necessary corrections. 
• Verify your citations and use a plagiarism checker tool to confirm that your citations are accurate and that you’ve attributed all borrowed ideas or information correctly. 

5 Types of Claims for Your Argumentative Essays 

Once you’ve settled on your argument and crafted your thesis statement, consider how to structure your argument effectively. Your essay can be driven by one of five types of argument claims: 

1: Fact: This centers around determining whether a statement is true or false. 

2: Definition: It involves providing both the dictionary definition of your argument and your personal interpretation of it. 

3: Value: This focuses on discussing the significance or importance of what you’re arguing. 

4: Cause and Effect: This explores the reasons behind the issue in your essay and its resulting impacts. 

5: Policy: This explains why the reader should be concerned about the issue and suggests actions they can take in response. 

3 Main Approaches to Argumentative Essay 

Argumentative essays should maintain objectivity, relying on logic and evidence rather than emotional appeals. Two common models for outlining arguments are the Toulmin and Rogerian models. However, for more complex arguments requiring definitive rebuttals, consider utilizing the three main types of argumentative structures: 

Aristotelian Arguments 

The Aristotelian or Classical argument is a straightforward approach that leverages ethos (credibility), logos (reasoning), and pathos (emotion) to persuade. It is effective for audiences with limited knowledge or neutral opinions. Hence, you can use it to make straightforward arguments.  

While using this approach, you can structure your essays by introducing the problem, followed by presenting your perspective, addressing opponents’ views while refuting them systematically, presenting evidence, and concluding with a summary reinforcing your stance. 

Toulmin Arguments 

The Toulmin model offers a systematic approach to constructing arguments, consisting of four key steps: making a claim, providing evidence to support the claim, explaining the warrant or reasoning behind the evidence, and addressing potential rebuttals. This method is particularly effective for addressing complex issues where there are no clear truths or when presenting counterarguments or rebuttals.  

When utilizing the Toulmin method, begin by clearly stating your claim or thesis. Then, support your claim with evidence, such as data or accepted facts, and establish the connection between the evidence and the claim through warrants. Additionally, provide backing to further strengthen your claim, and acknowledge any limitations or qualifiers to your argument. Finally, address opposing viewpoints and criticisms through rebuttals, ensuring a comprehensive and persuasive argumentative essay. 

Rogerian Arguments 

The Rogerian method offers a balanced approach to argumentation, especially suitable when presenting to a mixed audience or when acknowledging the validity of both sides of an argument. This approach is characterized by its respectful and non-confrontational tone, aiming to convince readers who may be biased against the main claim.  

In a Rogerian argument, the problem is first presented, followed by an acknowledgment of the opposing viewpoint’s validity. The author then articulates their perspective and demonstrates how it addresses the problems highlighted in the opposing viewpoint. Finally, a possible compromise is suggested, emphasizing elements from both perspectives. This model facilitates understanding of both sides of the argument and encourages a collaborative approach to finding solutions, making it particularly effective for contentious issues where disagreement is strong.  

Tips to remember when writing an argumentative essay 

The goal of an academic essay is to persuade readers of a position or perspective through informed arguments supported with evidence and analysis. Implement these tips in your writing to make it effective: 

• Capture the reader’s attention with an effective introduction. 
• Include all valid points that are logical and in favor of the writer’s opinion. 
• Display both sides of the topic and prove the writer’s point of view. 
• Use facts to support the writer’s opinion. 
• Organize your essay with a clear introduction, body paragraphs presenting evidence, and a conclusion summarizing key points. 
• Avoid emotional reasons or an angry tone. 
• Don’t use strong words if the writer doesn’t know their correct usage. 
• If the writer has difficulty in having enough points to support their stance, they should consider arguing the opposite view. 
• Don’t use a list format (e.g., firstly, secondly, thirdly) to present the writer’s points. 
• Use good expressions and connectives, such as “furthermore” and “in addition to this,” to enhance the writer’s language. 

Conclusion 

Becoming proficient in argumentative essay writing requires a systematic approach while guiding writers from preparation to revision. Moreover, understanding the structure and purpose of arguments is crucial in argumentative essays alongside recognizing different approaches like Aristotelian, Toulmin, and Rogerian methods. Hence, by organizing thoughts, effectively utilizing evidence, and considering various perspectives, writers can create essays that not only engage readers but also present compelling arguments that resonate with them.