Argumentative Essays

In argumentative essays (also referred to as persuasive essays) you need to investigate a topic; collect,
generate, evaluate evidence and express a clear position on the topic. You will need to research
previously published material and the essay may also require the incorporation of empirical research
where you might need to collect data through interviews, surveys, observations, questionnaires or
experiments.

This kind of essay is similar to an expository essay, the main differences being the amount of prewriting and research involved for an argumentative essay is considerably bigger.This kind of essay is
also very similar to a discursive essay. Indeed many people consider them the same. Click here to read
about the differences and similarities between argumentative and discursive essays.
How to Write a Good Argumentative Essay
1. Make sure you have a clear and concise thesis statement in your introduction
In the introduction, set the context by reviewing the topic generally then explain why the topic is
important or why readers should care about the topic. Your last sentence should be a clearly defined
thesis statement.
2. Make the transitions between your introduction, body and conclusion clear and logical
Transitions hold your essay together. Without a logical progression the reader wont be able to follow

your argument and the essay structure will collapse. Good transitions tie your ideas together from the
introduction to the conclusion.
3. Include evidential support in your body paragraphs
Have one main idea in each paragraph that is logically connected to the thesis statement. This is
important for clarity, direction and readability. Also explain why your evidence supports your thesis
statement. You also need to consider different viewpoints and say why these alternative views are
wrong, poorly informed or outdated.
4. Include Evidence
You need to include researched, accurate and contemporary information in support of your thesis
statement. Again however you should consider multiple viewpoints. Do not exclude evidence that does
not support your thesis, rather include it and critique the evidence.
5. Think of your argumentative essay as a debate with a classmate
If you are discussing the reasons for crime in a country, there will be a beginning, middle and end to the
debate. Make sure your argument is complete and does not tail off before the end is reached.
6. Conclusion. Readdress your thesis statement, do not just restate it
Do not include any new evidence in your conclusion, instead synthesise the information you have given
and restate why the topic is important. Review your main points and your thesis. You may also include
a short discussion of further research that could be completed in light of your essay.
7. Proofread your writing
Do not hold back on this. Proofreading is the final and one of the most important parts of the writing
process. In order to do this properly you need to know how to proofread and you also need to practice
your proofreading regularly.

Use a five-paragraph approach for your essay. This is not the only approach; however it is standard and
effective. And of course there will be times when you need a lot more than five paragraphs. Complex

issues and detailed research needs a complex and detailed essay. When discussing numerous sources
and empirical data you will most certainly need a longer essay. The length of your essay will ultimately
be determined by the assignment guidelines and restrictions.