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Argumentative Writing: A step-by-step guide

Argumentative writing involves taking a stance on an issue and convincing readers to support that viewpoint through critical thinking and evaluation of different perspectives. A successful argumentative essay includes a clear claim, supporting evidence, acknowledgment of counterarguments, and a well-structured organization. Key elements such as a compelling introduction, effective thesis statement, and thorough research are essential for crafting a persuasive argument.

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Tsai-Ann McCarthy
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32 views15 pages

Argumentative Writing: A step-by-step guide

Argumentative writing involves taking a stance on an issue and convincing readers to support that viewpoint through critical thinking and evaluation of different perspectives. A successful argumentative essay includes a clear claim, supporting evidence, acknowledgment of counterarguments, and a well-structured organization. Key elements such as a compelling introduction, effective thesis statement, and thorough research are essential for crafting a persuasive argument.

Uploaded by

Tsai-Ann McCarthy
Copyright
© © All Rights Reserved
We take content rights seriously. If you suspect this is your content, claim it here.
Available Formats
Download as PDF, TXT or read online on Scribd
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Argumentative

Writing
What is argumentative
writing?
Argumentative writing is a type of writing in which
the writer takes a stance on a particular issue.
Crafting an effective argumentative piece
requires you to think critically and evaluate
various perspectives on an issue.

Purpose of argumentative writing


In a good argumentative essay, a writer attempts
to convince readers to understand and support
their point of view about a topic or issue.
Claim & Reasoning Support & Evidence
Identify your position on the topic It is important to back up your
and the reasons for taking that claims with examples, facts,
position. You should also identify statistics, quotes and

Planning some reasons that don’t align


with your position (for your
counter argument).
anecdotes.

your
Language & Style Organisation

Argument “Who is my audience?”


This question is key when writing
A well-made argument is a well
organised argument. Your writing
crafting an argument. Since the should be ordered in a logical
goal is to get your audience to manner that is easy to follow.
agree with you, you have to
ensure that your language use,
tone and writing style appeal to
them as much as possible.
Taking a Stance
The central argument of a piece of writing that
takes a position or stance on an issue or topic is
called a claim.

A successful claim has the following components:


a clear stance on the issue i.e. for/against
one to two relevant, well-developed reasons
for this stance
acknowledgement of the opposing viewpoint
(counter argument)
What do you think?

There has been a growing debate about


whether boys and girls should be educated
separately.
Introduction Body
Begin the introduction Include 2-3 body paragraphs
paragraph with a hook to within the essay. Each
grab the reader’s attention. paragraph should focus on a

Structuring
Continue by adding single point and include
background information and evidence and analysis that
context. End with the thesis. supports the thesis.

your
Counterargument Conclusion
Argument Every argument will have an
opposing view called the
Use the conclusion paragraph
to remind readers of your main
counterargument. Address this argument. Point out the
opposing view by providing implications of your essay and
evidence showing that the leave readers with lingering
counterargument is false. ideas about your topic.
The Introduction
The introduction allows you to formally
present your claim and reasoning on the
specified topic.

A good introduction consists of three key


elements:
A hook
Background information
A thesis statement
The Hook
The hook is the first statement in a piece of
writing. The goal of any good hook is to firmly
grab the reader’s attention.

What’s a good hook?


There are many different approaches to crafting
a good hook:
An intriguing rhetorical question
A surprising fact or statistic
A relevant quotation
An interesting anecdote
An evocative image or description
A common misconception
Background
After grabbing your reader’s attention,
you should provide background
information necessary to understand your
argument. This helps to inform your
readers (assuming they’re unaware of the
topic) or to set the scope for your
argument.
Thesis Statements
The thesis statement is a clear and concise
statement that presents the central argument
or claim you intend to support throughout your
writing. It serves as the main point around
which your entire essay revolves.

An effective thesis statement is focused and


specific. It avoids personal pronouns and
vague language. It offers the reader an
interpretation, position, or perspective.
Research & Evidence
To write an effective argument essay, you will
need to do some research and find evidence to
support your argument. First, locate credible
sources that support your claim. Credible
sources include academic journals, books,
government publications, expert opinions, and
reputable news outlets. Be sure to select
evidence that is directly related to your claim.
Statistics, data, and examples can bolster your
argument. Properly cite all of your sources using
the required citation style.
Counterarguments

Every argument has a counterargument.


Acknowledging opposing points of view shows
that you have a well-rounded understanding of
the issue. By addressing potential objections,
you will strengthen your argument. Be sure to
refute the counterargument with solid evidence
from credible sources. Make it clear how your
argument is more compelling or persuasive than
the counterargument. Explain why your evidence
is more reliable or your reasoning more sound.
Revising & Editing
Revising and editing your argument essay is a critical
part of the writing process that can significantly
improve the overall quality of your essay. During the
revision phase, you will examine the major aspects of
the essay. You will take time to assess the structure,
organization, thesis statement, evidence, and
coherence of your essay. Once you are satisfied with
the major aspects of the essay, you will begin to
proofread and edit. At this stage, you will correct
errors in grammar, spelling, and punctuation.
Revising and editing an argument essay takes time
and attention to detail, but the effort is well worth it.
Mistakes to Avoid
Avoid these common mistakes when writing
argumentative essays:
a weak or unclear thesis statement. This can
undermine the entire essay.
a lack of thorough research can result in
poorly supported arguments.
failing to acknowledge opposing viewpoints
or counterarguments can make the essay
seem one-sided.
Thank you for
listening.

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