Argumentative Essay Definition

An argumentative essay is a genre of essay in which the writer takes a strong stance on an
issue to convince the reader and win them over to their ideology.
It is similar to a persuasive essay; the only difference is, it is based on logic and evidence.
Whereas, a persuasive essay is based on the writer’s emotions and personal opinion.

Argumentative Essay Topics

Choosing a topic for an argumentative essay is way more complicated than choosing a topic
for any other essay. To get enough material to write about, your topic should be

· Debatable
· Arguable
· Researchable
· Controversial
· Current

Here are some good argumentative essay topics to help you get started:

· Coronavirus is more of a blessing for the earth than a curse.

· Human being are more dangerous for mother earth than any other creature
· Most of the people can work from home
· Social media have caused social distancing
· Single parents can't do the same upbringing of kids as both parents do.

Argumentative Essay Structure

An argumentative essay format follows these three major models:

1. Classical
2. Toulmin
3. Rogerian

Classical Model
In the classical model, the writer tries to convince the reader with his/her side of the argument.
The writer discusses both sides of the argument and then presents the evidence to support his
claim.

Toulmin Model
Founded by Philosopher Stephen E. Toulmin, the Toulmin model presents evidence that
makes it difficult to argue with a claim. Rather than presenting both sides of the argument, it
only presents one.

Rogerian Model
Founded by Psychologist Carl Rogers, the Rogerian model is also known as a common
ground argument model. It acknowledges both sides of the argument and provides a middle
ground.
How To Write An Argumentative Essay
Argumentative essays are the most common type of essays for High School and College
students. They require strong critical thinking skills and an ability to analyze a topic at a
deeper level.
Here is a step by step guide on how to start an argumentative essay:
Argumentative Essay Outline
An outline is an essential part of any essay assignment. The most common argumentative
essay outline format is:

1. Introduction
2. Body Paragraphs
3. Counter Argument
4. Conclusion

Argumentative Essay Introduction

An argumentative essay introduction clearly states the writer’s claim that he will make in the
essay. The introductory paragraph should be logical, intellectual, and should be written
persuasively.
Here are three steps you can follow to write a very persuasive argumentative essay
introduction:

1. Start with a hook: Begin your introduction paragraph with a strong hook that gives
the reader a hint about your argument.
2. Give background information: Provide brief background information necessary to
understand the argument and smoothly transition into the thesis statement.
3. State the thesis: Lay a solid foundation for your claim by stating your thesis
statement.

Argumentative Essay Thesis Statement

The thesis statement is a concise, clear, and one sentence summary of the whole essay. It is
the most important part of an argumentative essay because it established a foundation for
your claim. It should be informative, engaging, arguable, and valid.
One of the ways of writing an argumentative thesis is to make a question out of your topic.
Simply take your essay topic and turn it into a debatable question.

Argumentative Essay Body Paragraphs

The body paragraphs involve topic sentences and evidence, either against or supporting a
certain point of view.
Here are three simple steps of crafting the body paragraphs:
 1. Topic sentence: Start each body paragraph with a topic sentence that defines only
one specific idea and supports the main claim.
2. Provide evidence: Provide as much supporting evidence as required to convince the
reader. Remember! The argument has no value if it is not backed with proper and
relevant evidence from credible sources.
3. Concluding remarks: End the paragraph with a concluding remark and smoothly
transitioned to the next body paragraph.

Using Counter Arguments

This counter-argument paragraph contains the opposing point of view that a reader may pose
against your main argument. This paragraph aims to prove that the opposing side is wrong by
providing facts and evidence.
Below are the four steps to craft a counter-argument paragraph:

1. State the counter-arguments: Present all the counter-arguments one by one.

2. State your response: Provide your response towards the counter-arguments.
3. Refute the opposing claims: Refute the opposite claims, one by one, with facts and
evidence..
4. Conclusion: Conclude the paragraph by reasserting your main claim of the essay.

Argumentative Essay Conclusion

The conclusion needs to be logical and precise that inspires the reader to agree with your
claim. It should provide the final stance about the argument, which tells that your side of the
argument is right.
Here are the three steps to write an effective argumentative essay conclusion:

1. Summarize the argument: Sum up the entire essay and rewrite the thesis statement
2. Stick to the plan: Don’t introduce any new argument here; just synthesize all the
information presented in the body paragraph.
3. Call to action: End your essay by providing a call to action.

Argumentative Essay Writing Tips

In order to merit an A+ grade for your essay, you should follow the basic set of guidelines.

Use the 5 Argumentative Claim

Before you start writing, decide the type of argument that you want to make with your essay.
Here are the five types of argumentative claims:

1. Fact: Whether the argument is true or false?

2. Definition: What the argument actually means?
3. Value: How important is the argument?
4. Cause and effect: What causes the problem, and what are its implications?
5. Policy: What should the reader do about it?

Choose A Debatable and Defendable Topic

Always choose a topic that you are passionate and knowledgeable about. Also, aim for topics
that are current and trending. However, make sure to stay clear from emotionally charged
issues like race, religion, sport, and politics.