How to Write an Argumentative Essay - A Complete Guide

Writing an argumentative essay can be a daunting task. It requires you to research and analyze data, form your own opinion on the topic, and present evidence to support it.

You may feel overwhelmed when you to write a compelling argument that will stand out from the rest.

Don't worry - we're here to help! 

In this guide, we'll show you how to construct a winning argumentative essay with ease. We'll provide tips and tricks for researching topics, forming arguments, organizing your paper structure, and more!

Let’s dive in!

What Is An Argumentative Essay?

It's essential to have a clear argumentative essay definition before you begin writing.

An argumentative essay is a type of persuasive writing that presents two sides of an issue or topic. The goal is to convince the reader to adopt one position over another.

To write an effective argumentative essay, you must conduct research on both sides of the issue and present your arguments clearly. This will help you build credibility with your readers and convince them to agree with your point of view.

Difference Between Argumentative and Persuasive Essays 

Argumentative essays and persuasive essays are different. An argumentative essay uses logic and reasons to show why the reader should agree with one side over another.  

While a persuasive essay uses emotional language to persuade the reader. However, they both try to get the reader to agree with a particular position on the topic.

The Art of Argumentation: 5 Types of Argument Claims

Knowing how to make an effective argument is a key skill in academic, professional, and even everyday life. 

One way to ensure that your argument is well-crafted is to understand the different types of argument claims.

Let’s dive into this topic and explore the five most common types of argument claims.

• Factual Claim

A factual claim is something that you say is true or false based on facts or evidence. 

For example, you might make a factual claim about how many people live in a city or how much rain falls in an area.

To support your factual claims, include sources that have data or research results to back up your information.

• Definition Claim

Definition claims are used when people disagree about what a word or phrase means.

You need to show evidence from books or other reliable sources to prove what the word or phrase means.

• Cause and Effect Claim

A cause-and-effect claim is when one thing happens because another thing happened. 

For example, “People started buying more electric cars because the price of gasoline went up.”

When you make this kind of claim, it is important to have evidence from good sources. This way, the readers can check and make sure that what you are saying is true.

• Value Claim

When you make a value claim, you are saying that something is important or good based on facts and evidence. This is different from just saying your opinion.

For example, you could say “The internet has been very helpful in increasing access to education around the world." 

You would need to use statistics and other relevant data points as proof to back up what you are saying.          

• Moral Claim

Moral claims are when you say something is right or wrong. You need more than just facts. You need ethical principles too.

This kind of argument is when you try to convince someone that something is right or wrong. You need to show sound logic for why something should be considered right or wrong according to moral standards.

In summary, then - understanding these five types of argument claims will help you craft strong arguments!

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3 Main Types of Arguments and How to Use Them

Argumentative essays require careful and critical reasoning skills. Understanding the differences between these three types of arguments can help you become a better debater.

Let’s explore each type in more detail.

Classical Argumentative Essay

Classical argument essays are a type of essay that uses logic and evidence to support a claim. 

This type of essay has a specific structure that includes

• Background information
  
• A thesis statement 
  
• Opposing sides of the argument
  
• Conclusions

The purpose of this type of essay is to explain why one side is correct over another.

Rogerian Argumentative Essay

The Rogerian style was developed as a way to bridge opposing views on controversial topics without resorting to name-calling. 

In this type of essay, both sides are presented. This is followed by rebuttals which are then addressed in order to reach a compromise solution.

The Rogerian approach focuses on understanding both sides and working toward a common ground rather than trying to win an argument.

Toulmin Argumentative Essay

The Toulmin method is a way to argue using facts and evidence instead of just opinions. 

This type of argument tries to find a solution that respects both sides instead of making one side right and the other wrong. 

By understanding each style, you'll be able to create compelling arguments!

How to Write an Argumentative Essay - Steps

Now that you’re familiar with the three main types of arguments, let’s discuss how to craft an argumentative essay.

Step 1: Choose Your Topic

The first step in writing your paper is to choose a topic. Make sure that your topic is relevant and has enough evidence or facts to back up any claims you make.

Consider both sides of the argument before deciding what stance to take.

It's important to plan all your steps for writing before jumping into writing. Check out this video that explains how you should plan for your argumentative essay.

Step 2: Research Your Topic

It’s important to research both sides of the argument thoroughly so you can present a well-rounded view of the issue.

Gather facts from reliable sources such as academic journals, books, and credible websites. Make note of any opposing viewpoints and consider how you can refute them.

Step 3: Create an Outline

Once you’ve done your extensive research, create a clear outline of your argument essay.

This will help organize your thoughts and ideas so that they flow logically from one point to the next. It will also help you stay on track as you write.

Step 4: Write Your Introduction

The introduction is the first section of your paper. It should provide background information on the issue as well as clearly state what position you are taking.

Be sure to include any relevant evidence or facts to back up your stance.

Step 5: Present Your Arguments

In this section, present each argument that supports your position.

Be sure to provide evidence for each argument, as well as address any opposing views that may exist.

Step 6: Draw a Conclusion

Finally, draw a conclusion from the arguments you have presented in your paper and restate your position on the issue.

Include any relevant facts or evidence that support your stance one last time before closing out the essay.

Step 7: Proofread to Wrap it Up

Proofreading and editing your essay is an essential step in the writing process. Read through your paper carefully to make sure that all of your facts are accurate, and arguments flow logically from one point to the next. 

You can even recheck your essay following an academic essay rubric! 

By following these steps, you can create an effective essay that will help you make your case.

How To Outline an Argumentative Essay

An argumentative essay is one that requires you to take a stand on an issue and support it with evidence. It’s important that you do your homework so that you can make sure your argument is solid, but the way you outline it can be just as important.

Here's how you create an effective outline for your essay:

Write an Introduction

Start with a hook to draw the reader in, then provide some background information on your topic and explain why it is important.

Create the Main Body

This section should include three paragraphs that present the evidence for your argument. Each paragraph format should be clear and cohesive. It should begin with an argument stating that is supported by facts, statistics, or research.

Give the Counter Arguments

In this section, you will explain why the counter-argument is wrong and provide evidence to back up your claims. This will help strengthen your essay by showing that you’ve considered both sides of the argument.

Present Your Rebuttal

This section should contain your rebuttal to the counter-argument. Here you will explain why your argument is more valid than the opposition's and explain why their evidence does not refute your claims.

Finish with Conclusion

Restate your thesis statement, summarize the main points of your argument, and provide a call to action. This will reiterate your main argument and leave the reader with something to think about.

By following this outline, you can ensure that your essay is organized and effective. You’ll be able to make sure your argument is strong enough for your readers to understand and accept it as valid.

Argumentative Essay Examples

Now that you know how to write an argumentative essay, it’s time to take a look at some examples.

By reading through these examples, you’ll get a better idea of how to structure your own argumentative essay.

Argumentative Essay Topics

When it comes to argumentative essays, there are plenty of topics to choose from.

Some of the most popular include:

• Is global climate change man-made? 
  
• Is the death penalty effective? 
  
• Are energy drinks bad for your health? 
  
• Is online learning as effective as traditional learning? 
  
• Are zoos cruel to animals? 
  
• Should schools start later in the morning? 
  
• Should the drinking age be lowered? 
  
• Should the driving age be raised?  
  
• Should marijuana be legalized? 
  
• Are beauty pageants harmful to women?

Tips for Writing a Good Argumentative Essay

Now that you have an idea of what to write about, here are some tips on how to write a good argumentative essay.

• Choose a debatable topic that you are interested in.

The first step to writing a good argumentative essay is to choose a debatable topic that you are interested in. This will make the writing process more enjoyable for you and also ensure that you are more likely to produce a well-written and well-reasoned essay.

• Do your research.

Once you have chosen a topic, it is important to do your research. This will help you to develop a strong understanding of the issue at hand. 

Be sure to consult a variety of sources, including academic journals, newspapers, and websites.

• Support your argument with evidence.

In each body paragraph, provide evidence from your research to support your argument. Be sure to explain how this evidence supports your position on the issue at hand.

• Address counterarguments.

In order to make your argument more convincing, be sure to address any counterarguments that could be used against you. This will show that you have thought critically about the issue and considered all sides of the debate.

By now, you should be feeling pretty confident in your ability to write an excellent argumentative essay. 

You know what a good essay is, you've chosen a great topic for yourself, and you have a clear outline of what your essay will look like. 

Plus, with all the tips and examples we've given you, there's no way you can fail. So what are you waiting for? Start writing! 

And if somehow you still find yourself stuck, don't hesitate to reach out to our professional essay writer. 

Our team of expert argumentative essay writers is always here to lend a helping hand when needed. Our argumentative essay writing service promises timely delivery of top-quality essays. With the help of our essay writing service, you can submit an outstanding essay and secure an assured A plus!