Image 1. Writing an argumentative essay takes research. Students need to find evidence to back their ideas. Photo from Pexels.
When you write an argumentative essay, your goal is to persuade your readers. You want them to agree with your point of view. To do this, you need to pick an interesting topic. You also need strong evidence and good arguments.

Find A Good Topic

Think of a few topics that have more than one point of view. Pick a topic you are excited about. If you're not interested in a topic, your readers will probably be able to tell.

Consider Both Sides And Take A Position

Say your topic has two possible sides. You should make a list of points for both of them. You have to know the arguments for sides you don't agree with. For example, imagine that you have been given this topic:

Recently, a young man was punished at school for wearing makeup in class. He wore black lipstick and eyeliner. The young man protested that the school was not being fair, since female students use makeup. Do you agree that the school discriminated against the young man?

Try drawing a line down the middle of a piece of paper. Write "pros" on one side, and "cons" on the other. "Pros" are arguments for a position. "Cons" are arguments against it. List at least three strong points for both sides.

Pros. Yes, this is discrimination because:

Girls and boys should be treated equally.

Sometimes makeup covers scars or marks.

Wearing makeup is a personal choice.

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

If the school doesn't have a written rule about makeup, it can't make one up.

Cons. No, this 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 students don't distract each other.

The school gets to decide the dress code.

Now, decide which side makes the strongest case.

Gather Evidence

You need to decide if your statements can be backed up by evidence. Types of evidence include numbers, examples, expert opinions and stories. A good essay uses different kinds of arguments and evidence.

In our example, say you decided that the student is not being discriminated against. You could say that students have always had to follow a dress code. You could also make the observation that the boy wore black lipstick, and so might be trying to draw attention. Or you could point out the consequences of what he did. The boy's makeup may have been distracting for other students.

Write The Essay

Once you have a good outline and good arguments, you can begin writing. All essays should have three parts: the introduction, the body and the conclusion.

The first paragraph should briefly explain your topic. You also should include background information. This is where you say what your position is. This position is called a thesis.

The middle part of the essay contains the main part of your argument. It is also where you explain the other side. Tell your readers what you think, and give evidence to show why your position is right. This part can have many paragraphs.

In the last few paragraphs, repeat your position. Explain why it makes the most sense based on the evidence.

Follow These Guidelines

Avoid emotional statements. For example, don't say you love something or that it's the worst thing ever.

Don't make up information. Also, only use sources of information that you can trust.

Say where your information comes from.

Make an outline.

Know the strongest arguments for the other side. Think of how to answer them.

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