An argumentative essay is a paper that requires an in-depth knowledge of the topic, as well as the ability to collect, summarize, and evaluate evidence. Many students confuse it with a persuasive essay, but it should be known that in an argumentative essay, the author tries to prove their opinion instead of persuading someone to accept their point of view.

An argumentative essay is usually assigned as the primary or final project that includes lengthy and detailed research. The author has to demonstrate their position about the subject and back it up with evidence. The purpose of this essay is the development of research skills, independent creative thinking, and the ability to present original thoughts in written form.

If a student realizes that they are not strong enough in one of the said areas, they probably need the assistance of an online writing service or use apa website citation generator. However, all of them should know how to write a convincing essay. So, what are the most important points that they should keep in mind?

1. Main Topic and Subtopic

You may find your teacher’s assignment of a specific controversial topic suitable. Although, selecting your idea is always better. When the main subject is chosen, think about a subtopic, which is more precise and specific. After that, create a design concept and take notes of what you are going to write about. All your further steps will support your main idea in detail. Write down the maximum number of ideas that come to your mind during the brainstorming process. Make sure that these ideas support your vision of the subject and do not contradict it. Otherwise, you will destroy the well-founded outline of the essay.

2. Develop Your Point of View

Try to write down as many ideas as you can. Do not forget to pay attention to the outline. This kind of assignments may demand experimental research which requires a student to collect the necessary data by using observation, interviews, and surveys. Regardless of the volume and type of research involved, an argumentative essay should give a clear thesis statement based on common sense. For example, in the first section, you can tell how you support the topic. In the second paragraph, you can provide practical ideas, and you determine what needs to be done in the third part. In this case, your argumentative essay will be highly evaluated.

3. Structure

A five-paragraph paper with three argumentative sections is often recommended. You should know what you’re going to write about in all the paragraphs. Allow your original thoughts to flow from one part to another one. In this way, you will form an idea about what you are going to describe in each separate section. Make sure the sections are strictly delineated and include all the information you were going to provide. A smooth transition from one paragraph to another is key to a successful essay since it demonstrates your ability to clearly express your thoughts.

4. Introduction

Do not be in a hurry to write both an introduction and a conclusion. These parts of the essay are considered the most important ones. A perfect written work should always have an impressive beginning. Try to outline a series of arguments here. You need to think carefully about the selection of vocabulary. Use exciting and catchy words.

5. Your Study in the Main Part

As a rule, here you start with a general statement, which will be supported by important details and vivid examples. Even if you know a lot about a specific area, you should use different reference sources. It will demonstrate your ability to collect and select information properly. Also, direct and indirect citations are needed to show your knowledge of a specific academic writing style. While working on an argumentative essay, you have to collect all time-tested sources to prove your awareness of a particular issue. Giving statistics, facts, and figures is an excellent method of persuasion. Depending on the length of your arguments, this part may contain one or two paragraphs in which the reasons for your position and evidence for them should be clearly stated.

6. Expected Objections

This paragraph usually comes before the conclusion. Remember – not only black and white colors exist in this world. Thus, even if you are entirely sure of your statement, you should consider the arguments of the opposing side. The presence of the expected objections to your vision suggests that you have carefully studied this topic and become familiar with various points of view. It will make your work only stronger.

7. Conclusion

Your essay should have a logical conclusion. Make your final thoughts convincing enough. Do not repeat what has been said before. Demonstrate the hidden meaning of the essay based on the stated arguments. Indicate again why this problem is essential and try to represent the issue in the broader context. The last few sentences in your essay are incredibly significant. First, they complete your thoughts. Secondly, this part should contain a reference to the introduction. You may use one or two catchy phrases here.

8. Revising

Check and edit your essay to get the job done flawlessly. Errors in grammar and vocabulary must be corrected. When everything is finished, try to answer the following questions: Is everything clear? Do you have the main argument? Are all the words used correctly? Do you have enough facts and examples to support the main argument? Are your ideas clear?

Writing an argumentative essay is actually very easy — just think, analyze, write, and revise. Next time when you have more experience, things will be much faster. Writing an essay is a good way of developing your communication and research skills. In this way, argumentative essays have a significant effect on how a student will be able to prepare public speeches later.