How to Write an Argumentative Essay
The Writing Lab – D204d http://bellevuecollege.edu/asc/writing 425-564-2200
How to Write an Argumentative Essay
An argumentative essay uses reasoning and evidence—not emotion—to take a definitive stand on a controversial or debatable issue. The essay explores two sides of a topic and proves why one side or position is the best. The First Steps Choose a specific issue to discuss. Some debatable issues cover a wide range of topics. For example, “legalizing drugs” is too broad a subject because topics within that issue include legalizing marijuana, the effectiveness of the FDA, or whether a painkiller made in Europe should be allowed into the US. Any of these could be the sole focus of an argumentative paper. Research both sides of the topic thoroughly. Even if you know which side you want to argue, research can give you ideas for counterarguments and help your paper show balance rather than bias. Develop a working thesis that states your position on the issue and summarizes your argument’s main reasons. Your body paragraphs should explain your reasons fully. Body Paragraphs
Option #1: Present both sides of the issue, then state your opinion and explain why you chose that side. This option is useful if you did not have an opinion on the issue prior to research, or your
audience is not very familiar with your topic. o One half to two-thirds of your paper explains the issue, shows the two opposing sides, and gives an assessment of each. This demonstrates that you have indeed conducted research and are an expert on the subject. o Next, when you state your position, readers might be more inclined to agree with you. o Last, explain your reasons for choosing that side without repeating ideas from previous paragraphs.
Option #2: State your opinion at the beginning. List and explain the reasons for your choice. Acknowledge the other side’s arguments; then, disprove/refute those arguments. This option is
useful when your audience already has some knowledge of the
How to Write an Argumentative Essay
An argumentative essay uses reasoning and evidence—not emotion—to take a definitive stand on a controversial or debatable issue. The essay explores two sides of a topic and proves why one side or position is the best. The First Steps Choose a specific issue to discuss. Some debatable issues cover a wide range of topics. For example, “legalizing drugs” is too broad a subject because topics within that issue include legalizing marijuana, the effectiveness of the FDA, or whether a painkiller made in Europe should be allowed into the US. Any of these could be the sole focus of an argumentative paper. Research both sides of the topic thoroughly. Even if you know which side you want to argue, research can give you ideas for counterarguments and help your paper show balance rather than bias. Develop a working thesis that states your position on the issue and summarizes your argument’s main reasons. Your body paragraphs should explain your reasons fully. Body Paragraphs
Option #1: Present both sides of the issue, then state your opinion and explain why you chose that side. This option is useful if you did not have an opinion on the issue prior to research, or your
audience is not very familiar with your topic. o One half to two-thirds of your paper explains the issue, shows the two opposing sides, and gives an assessment of each. This demonstrates that you have indeed conducted research and are an expert on the subject. o Next, when you state your position, readers might be more inclined to agree with you. o Last, explain your reasons for choosing that side without repeating ideas from previous paragraphs.
Option #2: State your opinion at the beginning. List and explain the reasons for your choice. Acknowledge the other side’s arguments; then, disprove/refute those arguments. This option is
useful when your audience already has some knowledge of the