A good argumentative essay is persuasive. Writing an argumentative essay requires you to choose a stance (standpoint/opinion) as it relates to the subject of your chosen topic. Choosing a stronger stance does not necessarily make a compelling argument. Even compelling opinions fail to make a good argumentative essay, especially if such arguments are not backed up with solid evidence and reasoning. The following guide provides you with structured steps on how to go about writing a good argumentative essay.

• Definition of an Argumentative Essay 
• 4 steps of Outlining an Argumentative Essay
• 3 Steps of Writing a Thesis Statement 
• 5 Varieties of Argumentative Claims 
• 3 Primary Argument Types and Directions on Their Application 

Definition of an Argumentative Essay

An argumentative essay refers to a writing piece that requires taking a stance on a given subject or issue. A good argumentative essay uses good reasoning and evidence to get readers to support their viewpoints on a particular subject. Argumentative essays are common assignments for college and high school students. Usually, the topics of argumentative essays are related to healthcare, politics, technology, and science. 

4 Steps of Outlining an Argumentative Essay

Good argumentative essays must have proper structural formats that enable readers to understand whatever information the writer may be trying to convey easily. Every argumentative essay seeks to outline a stance, provide reasoning, and back such reasoning with relevant evidence. The following components make up the structure of an argumentative essay. 

1. Introductory paragraph – The first paragraph of an argumentative essay outlines the subject/topic/issue. Additionally, it offers necessary background information to enable readers to understand your reasoning. It equally provides evidence you will need to support your background information and finally outlines your thesis statement. 
2. Thesis statement – This appears at the end of your first paragraph. It is a brief summary of the main claim and point, usually stated in a single sentence. 
3. Body paragraphs – A good argumentative essay entails three or more body paragraphs outlining why you support the claim in the thesis statement. Every single body paragraph must explore only one idea. Each body paragraph should also have a topic sentence that clearly explains to the reader why they should support your stance. Body paragraphs provide you with an avenue to support your claims using studies, research, examples, statistics, and in-text citations. Nonetheless, body paragraphs are also where one addresses opposing stances by disproving them using valid explanations and evidence. Thus, providing factual opinions and examining an issue from various angles enhances credibility and makes it easier to gain the trust of a reader. 
4. Conclusion – This should be a single paragraph restating your thesis and providing a summary of arguments presented in the body paragraphs. A good conclusion appeals to the emotions of a reader as opposed to introducing more facts. On other occasions, writers may present personal anecdotes to explain the relevance of the topic. 

3 Steps of Writing a Thesis Statement

Your thesis statement should be presented in a single sentence. However, it is the most crucial component of any argumentative essay. Thesis statements appear at the end of introductory paragraphs. They provide a summary of the topic and claims of argumentative essays and therefore prepare the reader for the arguments you present throughout your essay. The following are three steps that will enable you to develop concise and clear thesis statements:

1. Provide a brief explanation of your main viewpoints – Introduce the main point of your argument and outline how you intend to support the claim. For instance, “A national identity card has the potential to make people’s lives better by enabling people to pay taxes, apply for employment, and participate in the voting process.” Using this technique is efficient because it presents readers with a clear picture of everything your essay will discuss. It also creates a roadmap that enables you to stay on track as you conduct your research. 
2. State a claim and then counter it – Introduce a claim that contradicts your opinion and disprove it immediately by explaining why you counter it. For instance, “While some individuals oppose national identity cards because they believe it grants the government control on their lives, national identity cards are essential when making tax payments, applying for work, and voting.” This technique is efficient because it utilizes evidence and displays your credibility immediately. 
3. Change the topic into a question and provide an answer – First off, create a big question in your essay’s title. You may also choose to begin the first initial sentences of your introductory paragraph with a question. Thereafter, build up your essay by answering the stated question later in the thesis statement of your essay. For instance, in your introduction or title, you could state a question such as, “What importance do national identity cards have on the lives of people?” Then respond to this question in your thesis statement as follows: “National identity cards help us apply for work, vote, and pay taxes.” This technique is efficient because interesting questions capture the attention of readers and keep them riveted to reading in search of answers to such questions in your essay. 

5 Kinds of Argumentative Claims

Once you have chosen a topic and thesis statement for your argumentative essay, it is important to take a moment and consider how to present your arguments. You can choose from one of five different types of argument claims to write your essay. 

1. Policy – why the reader should support your claim and what they should do about your stance after reading 
2. Value – the significance of your argument 
3. Fact – Whether the claim is false or true
4. Cause and Effect – what causes the issue in your essay and its implications 
5. Definition – dictionary definition of the issue you are arguing about and assessment of the issue from a personal standpoint.

3 Primary Argument Types and Directions on Their Application

An argumentative essay can be structured in three ways. As such, you may decide to use one or combine all three to develop a persuasive, argumentative essay. 

1. Toulmin – State your claim, provide reasons to support that claim, and thereafter validate the reasons for supporting the claim. This argumentative essay type is useful for arguing polarizing topics. However, it only presents one side of the argument instead of both sides. This type of argument presents facts that render the claim made difficult to refute.
2. Rogerian – State the problem, acknowledge the opposing stance on the issue, present your viewpoint, and outline why your stance is the most appropriate to the reader. Rogerian argument is useful in discussing polarizing topics because, in addition to presenting a middle ground, it also presents both sides of the argument. 
3. Classical – state the main argument, present your stance and strive accordingly to persuade the reader why your vantage point is the most appropriate. It is the most common technique for developing an argument because it provides the easiest path for making arguments. It is especially useful when an audience lacks adequate insights into the issue being discussed. This is because it provides the facts concisely and clearly.

 

Writing an essay transcends both the educational and business spheres in society. While most people might associate writing essays with college students, it is also a common requirement for students in high school and middle school. The benefits of writing a good essay are not only limited to schools but may also come in handy at the career level (i.e., the business world).

What is an Essay?

An essay refers to a piece of writing which informs a given audience about a particular topic/issue/subject (information) while simultaneously presenting the opinion of the author/writer.

Writing a Good Essay in 8 Steps

Writing an essay requires good planning. Like every other activity in which people indulge, writing essays may seem easier for some people to handle compared to others. Writing an essay might seem daunting at first, especially when you need to score high grades on your assignments. Worry not, however, because you may very well overcome such obstacles by learning how to write a good essay in 8 simple steps as listed below:

• Pick an essay type
• brainstorm your topic
• Carry out research on your chosen topic
• Select a style of writing
• Develop a concise and appropriate thesis statement
• Provide an outline for writing your essay
• Writing the essay
• Spelling and grammar check

1. Choosing Your Preferred Essay Type

Before delving forth into writing an essay, it is prudent to choose the type of essay you may want to use in expressing your ideas. Essays may be classified into four main groups as listed below:

• Argumentative essay

  Writing argumentative essays requires you to choose a particular stance/claim/opinion on any given issue and provide valid reasons for supporting such claims using reputable evidence. As such, an argumentative essay requires you to examine both the negative and positive aspects of your chosen issue.

• Expository essay

  This type of essay informs your readers on how to carry out a particular process. In particular, expository essays discuss, explore, and compare problems.

• Descriptive essay

  This type of essay lays emphasis on the characteristics of events, people, and objects. In particular, such essays aim to provide in-depth details about the emotions of people, and the characteristics of an object, or provide a detailed description of an event.

• Narrative essay

  This kind of essay imparts or provides your audience with information about your chosen topic or subject of discussion.

2. Brainstorming Your Chosen Topic

Brainstorming denotes the process wherein a writer selects his or her essay topic. Now, this process might seem tedious, but hey, here are some pointers on how to go about this important step in essay writing.

• First off, write every idea that flushes through your mind. This is called brainstorming.
• A good way to brainstorm ideas entails writing your preferred idea(s) on a sheet of paper. After jotting down all the ideas you might have, it is recommendable to extrapolate (break down) your main idea into smaller components using arrows and bubbles
• When brainstorming, it is important to choose a topic that is neither too narrow nor too broad

3. Carrying out Research on your Chosen Topic

The next step after brainstorming ideas is carrying out thorough research on your chosen topic. To carry out this third step effectively, you can either choose to carry out research on your chosen topic or idea online or decide to visit a public library. You may also seek to interview experts who might have some insights on your chosen topic using interviews and several other techniques.

4. Choose your Preferred Format for Writing

The format for your essay is often dictated by your chosen essay topic or instructor/tutor/teacher. While you may write your essays using a variety of formats, there are three common formatting styles used by college and high school students. These include:

• Chicago Manual of Style – This style of writing is also referred to as Turabian. It has two forms of representation – that is, notes-bibliography and author-date. The notes-bibliography style is most commonly used in humanities and art papers, whereas the author-date style mostly applies when writing scientific research papers.
• American Psychological Association (APA) – This writing format utilizes the author-date style of citation. Its application is mostly common among psychology and social science researchers. It is the second most common citation style after MLA.
• Modern Language of Association (MLA) – This writing format widely applies in writing language arts and humanities essays. Most college and high school students use this style of writing in their various essays. It is the most widely used citation style in research.

5. Developing a Thesis Statement

A thesis statement is a one-sentence summary of the main points you wish to discuss in your essay. It appears at the end of your introduction paragraph. A good thesis statement should not be vague (i.e., not concise and failing to highlight the main points of discussion) or too broad. A good thesis statement informs the reader about the major points you intend to discuss throughout your essay. For instance, “consumption of junk food is harmful to your health,” is an example of a vague thesis statement. It is vague because it fails to inform your readers about the effects affiliated with the consumption of junk food. Comparatively, however, this other version, “Consumption of junk food poses deleterious health effects such as obesity, heart disease, and high blood cholesterol” is an example of a valid thesis statement.  This is because the latter version informs the readers about the effects, and by extension, the major points of discussion in the essay.

6. Developing your Essay’s Outline

After brainstorming, carrying out research, and developing a thesis statement, the next step is to develop a proper outline of your paper. An outline offers a ‘sneak-peek’ into what your essay will look like. It is more of a skeleton structure of the human body. Writing an outline for your paper enables you to develop an essay with a proper flow and excellent organization. You can write a good outline in the following steps:

• Write a thesis statement at the top
• Write topic sentences for every single body paragraph in your essay after the thesis statement
• Develop transitions between different body paragraphs to enable readers’ understanding of your essay’s content
• Provide supporting evidence or facts related to your research topic in each paragraph

7. Writing the Essay

You are in a better position to begin writing your essay after developing a proper outline. You should tailor your writing in accordance with your established outline. Writing an essay based on an established outline will enable you to write with much clarity and coherence.

While this last step sounds rather easier, however, it is important that you remember to carry out the following steps in a bid to ensure that your essay is perfect.

• First off, remember to revise and edit for structure, consistency, and clarity
• Check again whether the ideas presented in your body paragraphs align with those expressed in your thesis statement stated at the end of your introductory paragraph.
• Recheck the essay to affirm (and reaffirm again) whether your sentence structures have flow. Improving flow in an essay requires the use of transition words between different sentences.

8. Spelling and Grammar Check

The last and final step undertaken by anyone who needs to write a good essay is carrying out a rigorous check for grammatical and spelling mistakes. The steps shown below shed insights on how to go about rectifying grammatical and spelling errors (intended or otherwise).

• Check and review any errors
• Assess spelling, punctuation, and grammatical mistakes. It is always advisable not to rely solely on the spellcheck add-on embedded in Microsoft Word or any other word-processing program. This is because certain misspelled words might actually be real words, as in the case of ‘form and from’.

Writing essays is a crucial part of any academic curriculum. It is important to understand the different types of essays, their purpose and audience, and the importance of proper grammar and writing style. Anyone can become a skilled and successful essay writer with practice and dedication. In this article, we will discuss the different types of essays and what makes them distinct from each other.

Types of Essays: Expository Essays

Expository essays are a type of writing that aims to inform, explain, or describe a topic to the reader. This type of essay is often assigned in academic settings and is used to demonstrate the writer’s knowledge and understanding of a subject. In an expository essay, the writer presents a clear and neutral viewpoint, providing facts and evidence to support their argument.

The structure of an expository essay usually starts with an introduction that provides background information about the topic and ends with a conclusion that summarizes the main points. The body of the essay is where the writer provides a detailed explanation of the topic, using examples, facts, and statistics to support their argument.

Descriptive Essays

Descriptive essays are a type of writing that aim to paint a picture in the reader’s mind. This type of essay focuses on sensory details and creates a vivid image of a person, place, object, or experience. The writer uses descriptive language to appeal to the reader’s senses, creating an emotional connection to the subject.

In a descriptive essay, the writer starts with an introduction that sets the stage for the description to come. The body of the essay is where the writer provides a detailed description of the subject, using vivid and sensory language to create a mental image in the reader’s mind. The conclusion of the essay ties everything together, summarizing the main points and leaving the reader with a strong impression of the subject.

Types of Essays: Narrative Essays

Narrative essays are a type of writing that tell a story. This type of essay allows the writer to use their imagination and creative skills to craft a story that captures the reader’s attention. Narrative essays can be based on real events or imagined scenarios and can be written in the first or third person.

The structure of a narrative essay is similar to that of a short story, with an introduction, body, and conclusion. In the introduction, the writer sets the stage for the story, providing background information and introducing the characters. The body of the essay is where the writer tells the story, using descriptive language and dialogue to bring the story to life. The conclusion of the essay provides closure, wrapping up the story and leaving the reader with a lasting impression.

Argumentative (Persuasive) Essays

Argumentative (persuasive) essays are a type of writing that aims to convince the reader to agree with the writer’s perspective on a particular issue. This type of essay presents a strong argument supported by facts, evidence, and logic and is often used to convince the reader to take a specific action or adopt a particular viewpoint.

In an argumentative essay, the writer starts with an introduction that presents the issue and the writer’s stance on it. The body of the essay is where the writer presents their argument, using facts, evidence, and logic to support their viewpoint. The conclusion of the essay summarizes the main points and restates the writer’s stance, leaving the reader with a clear understanding of the writer’s perspective.

Conclusion

In conclusion, essays are an important part of any academic curriculum and come in many different forms. From expository essays that aim to inform and explain to descriptive essays that paint a vivid picture in the reader’s mind, to narrative essays that tell a story, and argumentative essays that aim to convince, each type of essay has its unique style, structure, and purpose.

Successful Essay Writing Tips

Understanding the different types of essays is crucial for successful academic writing, as it helps the writer to choose the right style, tone, and format for their specific assignment. Each type of essay requires a different approach and writing style, so it is important to familiarize yourself with the different types of essays and what they require before beginning to write.

In order to write a successful essay, it is important to understand the purpose and audience. Before beginning to write, take time to research the topic and gather relevant information that will help you to develop a strong argument or description.

It is also important to have a clear and well-structured outline that lays out the main points and supporting evidence for your argument or description. This will help you to stay focused and organized and ensure that your essay flows smoothly from beginning to end.

In addition to understanding the different types of essays, it is also important to understand the importance of proper grammar, spelling, and punctuation in academic writing. A well-written essay conveys a clear and concise message and demonstrates the writer’s attention to detail and mastery of the English language.

Essay writing can be a daunting task, but with proper planning and effort, it can be an excellent opportunity to demonstrate your writing and analytical skills. A well-crafted essay can help you stand out among your peers and impress your instructors. This step-by-step guide on essay writing provides a comprehensive overview of the college essay writing process, from understanding the essay prompt to finalizing your work.

Essay Writing Steps

• Understanding the topic
• Brainstorming
• Conducting research
• Creating an outline
• Writing the introduction
• Writing the body
• Writing the conclusion
• Revising and editing

The first step in Essay Writing is to comprehend the essay prompt

Before you begin writing, it is essential to understand the topic or prompt given by your instructor. Read the prompt several times, and make sure you comprehend what is expected of you. Pay close attention to keywords or phrases, as they will guide your writing. If you are unsure of what the prompt is asking, do not hesitate to ask your instructor for clarification.

The second step in Essay Writing is brainstorming

Once you have a clear understanding of the prompt, it is time to start generating ideas. This is the time to be creative and allow your thoughts to flow freely. Jot down any ideas that come to mind, no matter how unconventional they may seem. You can also create an outline at this stage, which will help you organize your thoughts and ideas later on.

Researching is the subsequent step in writing an essay

After brainstorming, it’s time to conduct research on your topic. Utilize credible sources such as academic journals, books, and articles to gather information. Take notes as you read, and keep track of where you found each piece of information. It is important to use reliable sources to support your arguments and ensure the credibility of your essay.

Writing the Outline is the fourth step in this essay writing guide

With your research complete, it is time to start organizing your ideas. An outline serves as a roadmap for your essay, helping you stay on track and ensure that all of your points are covered. Your outline should include an introduction, body paragraphs, and a conclusion. In each body paragraph, include evidence from your research to support your arguments. Your outline should be detailed and comprehensive, providing a clear guide for your writing process.

The fifth step is to write the Introduction

The introduction is the first opportunity to make an impression on your reader. It should grab the reader’s attention and provide background information on the topic. End the introduction with a clear thesis statement that outlines what you will be discussing in your essay. Your thesis statement should be concise and specific, providing a clear direction for your essay.

Body paragraphs

Each body paragraph should focus on a specific idea or argument and contain evidence from your research to support it. Make sure to transition smoothly from one paragraph to the next, using clear and concise language. Your body paragraphs should be well-structured and logically connected, providing a clear and convincing argument.

Writing the conclusion

The conclusion should summarize the main points made in the essay and restate the thesis in different words. It should also give the reader a final thought or insight on the topic. Your conclusion should leave a lasting impression on the reader, encouraging them to continue thinking about the topic long after they have finished reading your essay.

Revising and editing

Once you have finished writing, it is important to revise and edit your essay. Check for clarity, coherence, and grammatical errors. Ensure that your essay flows smoothly and that each paragraph is logically connected to the next. Revisions and edits can also help you refine and strengthen your arguments, making your essay even more effective.

Important Observations in Essay Writing

Critical thinking

Critical thinking is an essential component of writing a college essay. It involves analyzing information and making informed arguments backed up by evidence. By incorporating critical thinking into your writing, you can ensure that your essay is not just a recitation of information but a well-reasoned and thought-provoking piece of writing.

Proper citation

Proper citation is essential in college essay writing, as it demonstrates that you have done your research and helps to prevent plagiarism. There are several citation styles, including MLA, APA, and Chicago, and it is important to understand which style your instructor prefers. Make sure to include a work cited page or bibliography at the end of your essay and to accurately cite your sources in-text.

Finalizing your work

Before submitting your essay, make sure to proofread it carefully. Check for typos, and grammatical errors, and ensure that your essay adheres to the instructions provided by your instructor. Make any final revisions or edits if necessary, and then submit your work confidently.

In conclusion, writing a college essay is a challenging but rewarding process. By following these steps, you can ensure that your essay is well-written, well-organized, and effective in communicating your ideas and arguments. Remember to stay focused, be organized, and give yourself enough time to complete your work. With effort and dedication, you can craft a college essay that will help you stand out among your peers and impress your instructors.