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Notes For Argumentative Essay

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NOTES FOR ARGUMENTATIVE ESSAY

Table of Contents
1. “What is an Argumentative Essay?”
2. “When is an Argumentative Essay Written?”
3. Elements of an Argumentative Essay
4. How to Write an Argumentative Essay
5. Example of an Argumentative Essay
6. Importance of an Argumentative Essay
7. “How are argumentative essays different from the other types?”
8. Effective Strategies to Write an Argumentative Essay

1. “An argumentative essay is a type of academic writing that presents a clear


argument or a firm position on a contentious issue. Unlike other forms of essays,
such as descriptive or narrative essays, these essays require you to take a stance,
present evidence, and convince your audience of the validity of your viewpoint
with supporting evidence.

A well-crafted argumentative essay relies on concrete facts and supporting


evidence rather than merely expressing the author’s personal opinions.
Furthermore, these essays demand comprehensive research on the chosen topic
and typically follow a structured format consisting of three primary sections: an
introductory paragraph, three body paragraphs, and a concluding paragraph.”

Argumentative essays are written in various subject areas, reflecting their


applicability across disciplines. They are written in different subject areas like
literature and philosophy, history, science and technology, political science,
psychology, economics, etc.

2. Argumentative essays are often assigned in academic settings, but they can also
be written for various other purposes, such as editorials, opinion pieces, or blog
posts. Some situations to write argumentative essays include:

a. Academic assignments
b. In school or college, teachers may assign argumentative essays as part of
coursework. It helps students to develop critical thinking and persuasive
writing skills.
c. Debates and discussions
d. Argumentative essays can serve as the basis for debates or discussions in
academic or competitive settings. Moreover, they provide a structured way
to present and defend your viewpoint.
e. Opinion pieces: Newspapers, magazines, and online publications often
feature opinion pieces that present an argument on a current issue or topic
to influence public opinion.
f. Policy proposals. In government and policy-related fields, argumentative
essays are used to propose and defend specific policy changes or solutions
to societal problems.
g. Persuasive speeches
h. Before delivering a persuasive speech, preparing an argumentative essay as
a foundation for your presentation is common.

3. Elements of an Argumentative Essay


An argumentative essay comprises five essential components:

1. Claim
Claim in argumentative writing is the central argument or viewpoint that the writer
aims to establish and defend throughout the essay. A claim must assert your
position on an issue and must be arguable. It can guide the entire argument.
2. Evidence
Evidence must consist of information, data, examples, or expert opinions that
support the claim. Also, it lends credibility by strengthening the writer’s position.
Regardless of the context, an argumentative essay should present a clear thesis
statement, provide evidence and reasoning to support your position, address
counterarguments, and conclude with a compelling summary of your main points.
The goal is to persuade readers or listeners to accept your viewpoint or at least
consider it seriously.”
3. Counterarguments: Presenting a counterclaim demonstrates fairness and
awareness of alternative perspectives.

4. Rebuttal: After presenting the counterclaim, the writer refutes it by offering


counterarguments or providing evidence that weakens the opposing viewpoint. It
shows that the writer has considered multiple perspectives and is prepared to
defend their position. The format of an argumentative essay typically follows the
structure to ensure clarity and effectiveness in presenting an argument.

How to Write An Argumentative Essay


Here’s a step-by-step guide on how to write an argumentative essay:
1. Introduction
Start with an engaging sentence or question to capture the reader’s attention.
Provide background information about the issue, including relevant facts, statistics, or
historical context.
Present a clear and concise thesis statement that states your position on the topic.

2. Body Paragraphs (usually three or more)


Begin each paragraph with a focused topic sentence that relates to your thesis
statement.
Support your points with evidence, such as facts, statistics, examples, expert opinions,
and quotations from credible sources.
Use transition sentences to smoothly move from one point to the next.

3. Counterargument and Rebuttal


Acknowledge opposing viewpoints or potential objections to your argument.
Address these counterarguments with evidence and explain why they do not weaken
your position.
4. Conclusion
Restate your thesis statement and summarize the key points from the body of the essay.
Leave the reader with a final thought, call to action, or broader implication related to the
topic.
5. Citations and References
Properly cite all sources used in your essay using a consistent citation style.
Include a bibliography or works cited at the end of your essay.
6. Formatting and Style
Adhere to specific formatting guidelines provided by your instructor or institution.
Use a professional and academic tone in your writing and edit your essay to avoid
content, spelling, and grammar mistakes. Remember that formatting requirements for an
argumentative essay may vary depending on your instructor’s guidelines or the citation
style (e.g., APA, MLA, Chicago). Always check the assignment instructions or style guide
for any additional requirements or variations in formatting.

IMPORTANCE OF AN ARGUMENTATIVE ESSAY


EFFECTIVE STRATEGIES TO WRITE AN ARGUMENTATIVE ESSAY
What is the main purpose of an argumentative essay?

The main purpose of an argumentative essay is to persuade the reader to accept or


agree with a particular viewpoint or position on a controversial or debatable topic. In
other words, the primary goal of an argumentative essay is to convince the audience
that the author's argument or thesis statement is valid, logical, and well-supported by
evidence and reasoning.

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