Image 1. Writing an argumentative essay takes research. Students need to find evidence to back their ideas. Photo from Pexels.
There are many kinds of essays. In an argumentative essay, your goal is to persuade the reader. You want them to agree with your point of view. To convince them, you need three things. First, you need an interesting topic. You also need strong evidence to prove your position. Finally, you need good arguments.

Find A Good Topic

Think of a few topics that have different points of view. Pick a topic you are excited about. For example, think about this situation:

A young man was punished for wearing makeup at school. He wore black lipstick and eyeliner. He said that the school is not being fair. Female students are allowed to use makeup. Is he being discriminated against or not?

To pick a side, you have to compare "pros" and "cons." A "pro" is an argument for a position. A "con" is an argument against it. Try drawing a line down the middle of a piece of paper. List at least three strong points for each side.

Pros. Yes, it is discrimination, because:

Girls and boys should be treated equally.

Sometimes makeup covers scars or marks.

Wearing makeup should be a student's choice.

The school can't suddenly make up a rule.

The school is using stereotypes about how boys and girls should look.

Cons. No, it is not discrimination, because:

Makeup is traditionally worn by girls.

The boy is just trying to get attention.

The school has to make rules so that students don't distract each other.

The school gets to decide the dress code.

Now, decide which side is more convincing.

Gather Evidence

At this point, you need to prove that your points are true. They have to be backed up by evidence. Types of evidence include numbers, examples and expert opinions. Make sure to have more than one type of evidence.

Write The Essay

When you have your evidence, you can start writing your essay. The essay should have three parts. These are the introduction, the body and the conclusion.

In the first paragraph, explain your topic in a few sentences. Include some background information and what your position is. Your position is called a thesis.

The middle contains the main part of your argument. This can be many paragraphs long. In this part, you should explain the other side too. Then, tell your readers what you think, and give evidence to show why you are right.

In the last few paragraphs, you should repeat your point. Show why your side makes the most sense.

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