Why do people argue? Because it makes us explore different opinions thoroughly. It teaches us to ponder on opposing statements, to present only distinct and precise information. The art of arguing is to treat your opponent with respect and at the same time rebate his claims. This is what you have to do when writing an argumentative essay. The purpose of an argumentative essay is to win your point of view.
Your victory will depend much on the topic you choose for the essay. There are several rules for selecting successful topic, follow them and your argumentative essay will be efficient right from the start.
Your argumentative essay topic should be:
- Gripping (devote some time scanning the most recent newspapers, listen to the radio, whatever inspires you more and find out what is on the move.)
- Debatable (in other words it should be a controversial problem, open for discussion. Never choose so–called non debatable statements as you have no chance to support your point of view and your argumentative essay will be a waste of effort, time and paper. We also advise you not to choose something difficult to prove, as you will find difficulty in collecting the pertinent evidence and you are likely not to find it at all. )
- Stimulating and motivating for you. (The reader must perceive your passion, enthusiasm and interest to the topic; otherwise you will not be able to transmit these emotions to him)
- Neither too general nor too limited (Avoid deciding on a too general topic, you will hardly cover it completely in your essay.)
- Precise (Think carefully about the words in your topic and choose those that reveal the meaning best and are clear for the reader. Don’t write something scholar–like and too long.)
You can study the sample topics for argumentative essays, listed at the bottom of the page.
In the introduction your task is to show the importance of the argument. Introduction will also include your thesis statement, which is the summary of your controversy. In the body of the essay you should structure your evidence logically to back your point. It is a good idea to devote every new paragraph for supporting each of your assumptions. Before writing a conclusion you should refute opposing opinions. Don't sound aggressive and invalid. Your reader must understand that you have analyzed them thoroughly but discarded them for reasonable grounds. Now the only thing your argumentative essay lacks is a powerful conclusion. In the last sentences of your essay show the reader that the presented facts prove your argument. And the final advice – readers will be skeptical and to gain them over - write in a trustworthy, realistic and professional style.
- Should corporate punishment be used in schools?
- Are the exams necessary? Are they aimed at checking our knowledge or just causing stress?
- Should religious education become compulsory at schools?
- TV and our children, where is the limit?
- Flirting at work?...
- Do you need this equality? (Men and Women issues)
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