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Writing an Argumentative Research Paper

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Examples of argumentative essays

Skyline College libguides: MLA Sample Argumentative Papers

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Structure & Outline

Usually written in the five-paragraph structure, the argumentative essay format consists of an introduction, 2-3 body paragraphs, and a conclusion.

A works cited page or reference page (depending on format) will be included at the end of the essay along with in-text citations within the essay.

When writing an argumentative research essay, create an outline to structure the research you find as well as help with the writing process. The outline of an argumentative essay should include an introduction with thesis statement, 3 main body paragraphs with supporting evidence and opposing viewpoints with evidence to disprove, along with an conclusion.

The example below is just a basic outline and structure

I. Introduction: tells what you are going to write about. Basic information about the issue along with your thesis statement.

 A. Basic information

B. Thesis Statement

II. Body 1 : Reason 1 write about the first reason that proves your claim on the issue and give supporting evidence

A. supporting evidence 

B. Supporting evidence 

II. Body 2 .: Reason 2 write about the third reason that proves your claim on the issue and give supporting evidence

A. supporting evidence

III. Body 3 : Reason 3 write about the fourth reason that proves your claim on the issue and give supporting evidence

IV. Counter arguments and responses. Write about opposing viewpoints and use evidence to refute their argument and persuade audience in your direction or viewpoint

A. Arguments from other side of the issue

B. Refute the arguments

V. Conclusion

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8 Effective Strategies to Write Argumentative Essays

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In a bustling university town, there lived a student named Alex. Popular for creativity and wit, one challenge seemed insurmountable for Alex– the dreaded argumentative essay!

One gloomy afternoon, as the rain tapped against the window pane, Alex sat at his cluttered desk, staring at a blank document on the computer screen. The assignment loomed large: a 350-600-word argumentative essay on a topic of their choice . With a sigh, he decided to seek help of mentor, Professor Mitchell, who was known for his passion for writing.

Entering Professor Mitchell’s office was like stepping into a treasure of knowledge. Bookshelves lined every wall, faint aroma of old manuscripts in the air and sticky notes over the wall. Alex took a deep breath and knocked on his door.

“Ah, Alex,” Professor Mitchell greeted with a warm smile. “What brings you here today?”

Alex confessed his struggles with the argumentative essay. After hearing his concerns, Professor Mitchell said, “Ah, the argumentative essay! Don’t worry, Let’s take a look at it together.” As he guided Alex to the corner shelf, Alex asked,

Table of Contents

“What is an Argumentative Essay?”

The professor replied, “An argumentative essay is a type of academic writing that presents a clear argument or a firm position on a contentious issue. Unlike other forms of essays, such as descriptive or narrative essays, these essays require you to take a stance, present evidence, and convince your audience of the validity of your viewpoint with supporting evidence. A well-crafted argumentative essay relies on concrete facts and supporting evidence rather than merely expressing the author’s personal opinions . Furthermore, these essays demand comprehensive research on the chosen topic and typically follows a structured format consisting of three primary sections: an introductory paragraph, three body paragraphs, and a concluding paragraph.”

He continued, “Argumentative essays are written in a wide range of subject areas, reflecting their applicability across disciplines. They are written in different subject areas like literature and philosophy, history, science and technology, political science, psychology, economics and so on.

Alex asked,

“When is an Argumentative Essay Written?”

The professor answered, “Argumentative essays are often assigned in academic settings, but they can also be written for various other purposes, such as editorials, opinion pieces, or blog posts. Some situations to write argumentative essays include:

1. Academic assignments

In school or college, teachers may assign argumentative essays as part of coursework. It help students to develop critical thinking and persuasive writing skills .

2. Debates and discussions

Argumentative essays can serve as the basis for debates or discussions in academic or competitive settings. Moreover, they provide a structured way to present and defend your viewpoint.

3. Opinion pieces

Newspapers, magazines, and online publications often feature opinion pieces that present an argument on a current issue or topic to influence public opinion.

4. Policy proposals

In government and policy-related fields, argumentative essays are used to propose and defend specific policy changes or solutions to societal problems.

5. Persuasive speeches

Before delivering a persuasive speech, it’s common to prepare an argumentative essay as a foundation for your presentation.

Regardless of the context, an argumentative essay should present a clear thesis statement , provide evidence and reasoning to support your position, address counterarguments, and conclude with a compelling summary of your main points. The goal is to persuade readers or listeners to accept your viewpoint or at least consider it seriously.”

Handing over a book, the professor continued, “Take a look on the elements or structure of an argumentative essay.”

Elements of an Argumentative Essay

An argumentative essay comprises five essential components:

Claim in argumentative writing is the central argument or viewpoint that the writer aims to establish and defend throughout the essay. A claim must assert your position on an issue and must be arguable. It can guide the entire argument.

2. Evidence

Evidence must consist of factual information, data, examples, or expert opinions that support the claim. Also, it lends credibility by strengthening the writer’s position.

3. Counterarguments

Presenting a counterclaim demonstrates fairness and awareness of alternative perspectives.

4. Rebuttal

After presenting the counterclaim, the writer refutes it by offering counterarguments or providing evidence that weakens the opposing viewpoint. It shows that the writer has considered multiple perspectives and is prepared to defend their position.

The format of an argumentative essay typically follows the structure to ensure clarity and effectiveness in presenting an argument.

How to Write An Argumentative Essay

Here’s a step-by-step guide on how to write an argumentative essay:

1. Introduction

  • Begin with a compelling sentence or question to grab the reader’s attention.
  • Provide context for the issue, including relevant facts, statistics, or historical background.
  • Provide a concise thesis statement to present your position on the topic.

2. Body Paragraphs (usually three or more)

  • Start each paragraph with a clear and focused topic sentence that relates to your thesis statement.
  • Furthermore, provide evidence and explain the facts, statistics, examples, expert opinions, and quotations from credible sources that supports your thesis.
  • Use transition sentences to smoothly move from one point to the next.

3. Counterargument and Rebuttal

  • Acknowledge opposing viewpoints or potential objections to your argument.
  • Also, address these counterarguments with evidence and explain why they do not weaken your position.

4. Conclusion

  • Restate your thesis statement and summarize the key points you’ve made in the body of the essay.
  • Leave the reader with a final thought, call to action, or broader implication related to the topic.

5. Citations and References

  • Properly cite all the sources you use in your essay using a consistent citation style.
  • Also, include a bibliography or works cited at the end of your essay.

6. Formatting and Style

  • Follow any specific formatting guidelines provided by your instructor or institution.
  • Use a professional and academic tone in your writing and edit your essay to avoid content, spelling and grammar mistakes .

Remember that the specific requirements for formatting an argumentative essay may vary depending on your instructor’s guidelines or the citation style you’re using (e.g., APA, MLA, Chicago). Always check the assignment instructions or style guide for any additional requirements or variations in formatting.

Did you understand what Prof. Mitchell explained Alex? Check it now!

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Prof. Mitchell continued, “An argumentative essay can adopt various approaches when dealing with opposing perspectives. It may offer a balanced presentation of both sides, providing equal weight to each, or it may advocate more strongly for one side while still acknowledging the existence of opposing views.” As Alex listened carefully to the Professor’s thoughts, his eyes fell on a page with examples of argumentative essay.

Example of an Argumentative Essay

Alex picked the book and read the example. It helped him to understand the concept. Furthermore, he could now connect better to the elements and steps of the essay which Prof. Mitchell had mentioned earlier. Aren’t you keen to know how an argumentative essay should be like? Here is an example of a well-crafted argumentative essay , which was read by Alex. After Alex finished reading the example, the professor turned the page and continued, “Check this page to know the importance of writing an argumentative essay in developing skills of an individual.”

Importance of an Argumentative Essay

Importance_of_an_ArgumentativeEssays

After understanding the benefits, Alex was convinced by the ability of the argumentative essays in advocating one’s beliefs and favor the author’s position. Alex asked,

“How are argumentative essays different from the other types?”

Prof. Mitchell answered, “Argumentative essays differ from other types of essays primarily in their purpose, structure, and approach in presenting information. Unlike expository essays, argumentative essays persuade the reader to adopt a particular point of view or take a specific action on a controversial issue. Furthermore, they differ from descriptive essays by not focusing vividly on describing a topic. Also, they are less engaging through storytelling as compared to the narrative essays.

Alex said, “Given the direct and persuasive nature of argumentative essays, can you suggest some strategies to write an effective argumentative essay?

Turning the pages of the book, Prof. Mitchell replied, “Sure! You can check this infographic to get some tips for writing an argumentative essay.”

Effective Strategies to Write an Argumentative Essay

StrategiesOfWritingArgumentativeEssays

As days turned into weeks, Alex diligently worked on his essay. He researched, gathered evidence, and refined his thesis. It was a long and challenging journey, filled with countless drafts and revisions.

Finally, the day arrived when Alex submitted their essay. As he clicked the “Submit” button, a sense of accomplishment washed over him. He realized that the argumentative essay, while challenging, had improved his critical thinking and transformed him into a more confident writer. Furthermore, Alex received feedback from his professor, a mix of praise and constructive criticism. It was a humbling experience, a reminder that every journey has its obstacles and opportunities for growth.

Frequently Asked Questions

An argumentative essay can be written as follows- 1. Choose a Topic 2. Research and Collect Evidences 3. Develop a Clear Thesis Statement 4. Outline Your Essay- Introduction, Body Paragraphs and Conclusion 5. Revise and Edit 6. Format and Cite Sources 7. Final Review

One must choose a clear, concise and specific statement as a claim. It must be debatable and establish your position. Avoid using ambiguous or unclear while making a claim. To strengthen your claim, address potential counterarguments or opposing viewpoints. Additionally, use persuasive language and rhetoric to make your claim more compelling

Starting an argument essay effectively is crucial to engage your readers and establish the context for your argument. Here’s how you can start an argument essay are: 1. Begin With an Engaging Hook 2. Provide Background Information 3. Present Your Thesis Statement 4. Briefly Outline Your Main 5. Establish Your Credibility

The key features of an argumentative essay are: 1. Clear and Specific Thesis Statement 2. Credible Evidence 3. Counterarguments 4. Structured Body Paragraph 5. Logical Flow 6. Use of Persuasive Techniques 7. Formal Language

An argumentative essay typically consists of the following main parts or sections: 1. Introduction 2. Body Paragraphs 3. Counterargument and Rebuttal 4. Conclusion 5. References (if applicable)

The main purpose of an argumentative essay is to persuade the reader to accept or agree with a particular viewpoint or position on a controversial or debatable topic. In other words, the primary goal of an argumentative essay is to convince the audience that the author's argument or thesis statement is valid, logical, and well-supported by evidence and reasoning.

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Argumentative Essay Guide

Argumentative Essay Outline

Last updated on: Feb 9, 2023

How to Create a Strong Argumentative Essay Outline?

By: Jared P.

Reviewed By: Jacklyn H.

Published on: Oct 29, 2019

Argumentative Essay Outline

Don’t know how to create a strong outline for a convincing argumentative essay?

The outline for an argumentative essay is similar to other types of essays. These include informative essays, persuasive essays, compare and contrast essays, etc.

The outline for almost all types of essays includes an introduction, three body paragraphs, and a conclusion. To start writing an impactful argumentative essay , you need a topic broad enough to create a strong argument.

In this article, you will learn how to develop a 5 paragraph argumentative essay outline.

Argumentative Essay Outline

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How to Create an Argumentative Essay Outline?

The standard argumentative essay outline includes the following elements.

Argumentative Essay Introduction

The introduction of your essay is the first thing your reader will see. This is where you provide the reader with the proper background information, educating them about your topic. The reader will decide from the very first sentence if he wants to continue reading your essay further or not.

The opening line of an essay is a hook that sticks the reader to the essay. If the introduction is not interesting, the reader might not continue with the essay.

Here are the key points you should keep in mind while writing the introduction of your argumentative essay.

  • Start With a Hook

Start your introduction with an interesting hook that engages your readers and wants them to stick to your essay. It is not necessary that you have to write an entire paragraph as the hook of your essay.

A single interesting sentence also counts as a hook. You can start your essay with an interesting fact, anecdote, funny story, statistics, or a controversial statement.

The hook you choose depends on the nature of the paper that you’re writing and your audience. Whatever you choose to write, make sure it is catchy to grab the attention of readers.

Check out this article to learn some interesting hook examples and their different types.

  • Explain Your Point of View

Now you have to develop your thoughts related to the topic and explain the significance of the topic to the readers. Explain this part of your essay according to your personal knowledge in a couple of lines in the introductory paragraph.

You can also present the background information on your topic. Making sure that the reader knows what will be discussed throughout the paper. Be careful when sharing information at this stage, as you don’t want to bombard the reader with too much data.

  • Write Down Your Thesis Statement

A thesis statement is the crux of your entire essay written at the end of the introductory paragraph. Write down a strong and clear thesis statement that can be backed by a supportive argument and evidence.

The thesis statement of your essay should explain the main point and purpose of writing your essay.

Your entire essay revolves around the thesis; the body paragraphs present information and evidence to defend your thesis.

Follow the tips mentioned above to write an interesting introduction for your argumentative essay.

It is no surprise that the introduction of any essay holds the most importance. If you start on the wrong foot, the entire essay, along with your hard work, goes in vain.

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Argumentative Essay Introduction Examples

To know more about writing a catchy introduction, review the following argumentative essay introduction examples.

  • After the terrorist attack on World Trade Towers on September 11, 2001, racial profiling was increased. According to the authorities, profiling is the only way to identify terrorists. Some airports started targeting people from a Middle-Eastern background, creating concern about the violation of civil rights. This tactic of screening didn’t seem to work, which made the authorities recommend the use of the National ID card. If every citizen carries his ID card along, it will make the screening process easier. And it will not target individuals based on their looks.
  • Nowadays, students wake up, check their phones, get ready and leave instantly for school or college without any breakfast. Some might believe that having breakfast is not essential to start their day with a healthy meal. Studies have shown that breakfast is the essential meal of your day, especially for students.
  • Most of the public workers around the globe are not given the right to freedom of expression. Not even when they are made to work day and night, violating their working rights. Lack of freedom of expression decreases their morale to perform well at work. Enforcing their right to strike and to speak against such violations will encourage them. Countries all over the world should encourage their workers to go on strike and speak out.

Argumentative Essay Body Paragraphs

The body paragraphs of an argumentative essay hold the following significant components.

  • Counter-argument

Each body paragraph should contain a topic sentence that should then be explained in the paragraph with supporting details.

To present a strong argument, you can separate paragraphs to support or negate the thesis statement.

Present your arguments with supporting evidence to support your claim in one paragraph. Remember that you can’t just state your opinions about a particular issue or subject. To make a strong argument and change people's points of view, you must convince them using strong, authentic facts.

Present the opposing argument in the other paragraph by researching both points of view. Presenting both stances will strengthen the argument created in the essay. Refuting the counterargument will make yours seem more valid.

Another approach can be that first, you can use all the evidence to support your argument. After presenting your side of the argument, you can write a paragraph to refute the opposing side.

There is not a rule that should be applied when it comes to presenting an argument. The choice is yours. Make a decision and go for the method that would be easier for you while presenting your case to the readers.

Just be mindful when collecting the evidence. Only look for credible sources. Let’s look at this example of a claim and its supporting evidence.

Claim:   Closing down fast-food chains can control the number of obese kids in the United States.

Evidence: “A ccording to the analysis of several studies in 2017, it is shown that the percentage of obese kids has increased 11 times from the year 1975. ”

Argumentative Essay Conclusion

The last component of a simple argumentative essay outline in the concluding paragraph. Your conclusion needs to be strong to provide closure to the entire argument presented in your essay.

The goal of a conclusion is to make the readers realize why you picked this topic and how significant it is. Restate your thesis statement and your stance on the topic in conclusion.

A strong conclusion leaves a strong impact on readers. This is the part that your reader will remember once he finishes reading the essay. End your essay with an impactful conclusion so that the audience understands and agrees with your point of view.

Argumentative Essay Conclusion Examples

Here are some argumentative essay conclusion examples to further clarify how to write the conclusion.

  • Physical punishment might be an effective way to discipline kids. However, parents should avoid using this method to a maximum extent. We live in a world where there is already enough violence around us. We don’t need any more of it, and that should start from home. Teach your children to be responsible without using violence.
  • Hence, we cannot say that adults are better learners than children. This quality may vary depending on the enthusiasm and motivational level. The learning capability of an individual cannot be generalized according to their age.
  • Sports play an important role in maintaining health. We will have a healthier society if people involve themselves in sports. However, we need to make sure that the sports we are playing are not threatening our lives. They should be challenging yet exciting.

Now you know everything there is about an argumentative essay outline. To make it easier for you, we have an argumentative essay outline sample to guide you through your essay.

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Argumentative Essay Outline Examples

Here, you can find a sample argumentative essay outline pdf that you can follow to craft a perfect argumentative essay. You can also find numerous argumentative essay examples online for help.

To make writing an outline of an argumentative essay easier, we have also attached a worksheet below. Complete it carefully, and you will master the art of argumentative writing.

Argumentative Essay Outline Worksheet

Argumentative Essay Outline Template

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If you follow this guideline and the argumentative essay outline sample provided above, the writing process will become simpler. You can easily find some interesting and attention-grabbing argumentative essay topics online for a great start. Regardless of the essay topic, you will end up with a high-quality essay if you follow a proper guide.

While following an outline is important for writing argumentative essays, other essential steps must also be followed.

If you still need help, you can always contact a professional essay writer who will help you write a great essay.

At 5StarEssays.com, we can provide you with the best and on-time ‘ write essay for me? ’ help. Reach out to us and get the best essay writing help from experts.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the main goal of an argumentative essay.

The key purpose of writing an argumentative essay is to establish your position and support it with evidence and reasons.

Can you start an argumentative essay with a question?

Yes, you can either start your essay with a thesis statement or a rhetorical question.

How does evidence help an argumentative essay?

In an argumentative essay, evidence could be a fact, documentation, or testimony. It helps in strengthening the claims presented in the essay.

Jared P.

Masters Essay, Literature

Jared P. is a renowned author and writing service provider with over fifteen years of experience in the publishing industry. He has a Ph.D. degree in English Literature and has spent his entire career helping students achieve their academic goals by providing expert writing assistance.

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Table of Contents

Argumentative essay outline toolkit, how to write an outline for an argumentative essay, once you are done with these steps, this is what your structure will look like, introduction.

  • Provide an overview of capitalism and socialism
  • Introduce the central question: How is socialism more beneficial for society?

Capitalism and socialism each have distinct strengths and weaknesses, but for the betterment of society socialism offers a wider and healthy prespective.

Socialism ensures fairness and equality

  • Highlight the advantages of socialism, such as better living standards
  • Mention how socialism reduces income inequality
  • Provide real-world examples or case studies that illustrate the effects of socialism

Capitalism can be better for economy

  • Discuss the benefits of socialism, such as reduced income inequality and social safety nets.
  • Explore the disadvantages of socialism, such as reduced economic incentives and bureaucracy
  • Offer examples from socialist societies or historical contexts to illustrate the impact of socialism

Socialism can create a stable economy and society

  • contrast capitalism and socialism based on how socialism provides better economic stability for the society (e.g., economic growth, income distribution, individual freedom)
  • Evaluate the impact of capitalism and socialism on societal well-being, considering factors like healthcare, education, and poverty

Socialism enhances living standards and reduces business fluctuations

  • End your discussion by mentioning how socialism is better for both economically and socially
  • Present examples of countries successfully implementing socialism models
  • Reiterate your thesis statement
  • Give your final perspective on how socialism system is more beneficial for society

This is what your outline will look like

Firstly, the essay will discuss how socialism ensures fairness and equality in society by examining various advantages of socialism and offering real-world examples from case studies and historical events. Secondly, the essay will compare and analyze both by evaluating their impact on social and economic factors. Lastly, the essay will convey how socialism enhances living standards and reduces business fluctuations and will support them with the use of real-world examples.

1. Identify the topic

The initial step in crafting a compelling outline for your argumentative essay is to carefully choose your topic. Your choice of topic should be precise and engaging, setting the stage for the reader's expectations. By thoughtfully selecting your topic, you're laying the foundation for an argument that will engage and inform your audience throughout your essay. To do this effectively, consider asking yourself thought-provoking questions.

If you are writing an essay on capitalism and socialism, your topic can be “Why is socialism important for a co-operative society”.

2. Define the objective

In the realm of argumentative essays, the primary aim is to convince your readers to align with your viewpoint on a particular topic. You accomplish this by presenting a well-reasoned argument supported by substantial evidence. Clearly outlining your objective helps your audience understand the purpose and direction of your argumentative essay right from the outset.

If your objective is to state your opinion on a topic, you can say, “A discussion on how socialism can improve co-operative behaviour in the society will be conducted.”

3. Craft the thesis

Within your outline, carve out a distinct section dedicated to constructing the thesis statement, the heart of your argumentative essay. A thesis statement for an argumentative essay takes a firm stance on the issue at hand. The thesis statement serves as the guiding light for your essay, directing your arguments and analysis toward a specific and persuasive perspective.

Continuing the example, your thesis statement for the topic could be, “Capitalism and socialism each have distinct strengths and weaknesses, but for the betterment of society socialism offers a wider and healthy prespective.”

4. Main points

As you delve into the core of your outline, it's crucial to outline the major components of your argument. Identify the central themes and specify supporting points that bolster your thesis. In the realm of argumentative essays, the conventional five-paragraph structure often serves as a helpful framework. This structure typically comprises an introduction and a body paragraph that examines both sides of the issue, followed by your reasoning for supporting one side. Mapping out these main points provides a clear roadmap for your argumentative essay, ensuring it flows logically and persuasively.

The main points for your essay could be

  • Socialism can create a stable economy
  • Socialism is better for social living and fewer business fluctuations

5. Sub-points

Subsequently, after introducing the main points of your essay, you should embark on a comprehensive exploration of each of these points, fortified by relevant examples and evidence. In this section, it's imperative to elucidate the key issues to be discussed and specify the examples that will underpin your arguments. By breaking down your main points into sub-points, you'll be able to provide a more detailed and compelling argument within your essay.

  • Examine the drawbacks of capitalism, including income inequality and exploitation
  • Discuss the benefits of capitalism, such as increase in overall economy and better market for consumers.
  • Explore the advtanges of capitalism, such as a competitive market and bureaucracy

All will be explained with examples and backed with statistical data.

6. Evidence and citations

In the realm of academic essays, it's imperative to back your claims with credible evidence and properly attribute information. Your outline should include a dedicated section for citing your sources, whether they are real-world examples, quotes, or statistical data. This reinforces the credibility of your argument and demonstrates the thoroughness of your research.

You can cite real-world examples, and case studies, and provide information on historical events and their impact.

7. Introduction and hook

To captivate your readers' attention, your argumentative essay's introduction should feature a compelling hook. Typically, argumentative essays leverage surprising or striking statistics related to your argument as a hook. An effective introduction sets the stage for your argument and entices your audience to delve further into your essay.

You can start your essay with a statistical data hook like “Did you know roughly 39% of people have a positive view of capitalism and a negative view of socialism, and vice-versa”. Then continue on to provide an overview of capitalism and socialism and introduce your central question.

8. Conclusion

After you have stated your key points, it's time to conclude your essay. Argumentative essays are generally concluded by addressing opposing viewpoints and explaining why readers should align with your position.

In the conclusion, you will reiterate your thesis statement, and then give your final perspective on how socialism is better for society.

9. Transitions

Transition words play a crucial role in ensuring the seamless flow of your writing, facilitating smooth transitions between sentences, paragraphs, and topics. In argumentative essays generally, contrast transition words are used specifically when you need to communicate a point that contradicts your previous statement. An effective transition sentence is one that includes a word or phrase such as however, despite this/that, in contrast, or nonetheless.

You can use words like “chiefly”, “as a result”, and “after all” to transition from one idea, topic, or sentence to another.

10. Refine and review

Finally, before you embark on the actual writing of your essay, thoroughly review your outline. Ensure that each point flows logically, and all necessary information is included, while avoiding any extraneous content. Make any necessary revisions as you review, by refining and reviewing your outline, you lay the groundwork for a well-structured, persuasive, and compelling argumentative essay.

Finally, during the review, you will need to ensure that each point flows logically and you have included all the necessary information and didn’t add any extra points.

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How to Create a Powerful Argumentative Essay Outline: Step-by-Step Guide

How to Create a Powerful Argumentative Essay Outline: Step-by-Step Guide

When it comes to writing an argumentative essay, having a well-structured outline is the key to success. Not only does it help you organize your thoughts and present your arguments effectively, but it also allows you to anticipate counterarguments and develop strong rebuttals. In this step-by-step guide, we will walk you through the process of creating a powerful argumentative essay outline in a simple and straightforward manner.

To begin, it is important to understand what an argumentative essay is and what its main components are. An argumentative essay is a type of paper in which you present a claim or a statement and support it with reasons, evidence, and logical proofs. The goal is to convince the reader that your viewpoint is valid, reasonable, and backed up by solid facts.

First, you need to choose a topic for your argumentative essay. It is important to select a topic that is interesting and relevant to your audience. Once you have chosen a topic, you can start developing your argumentative essay outline.

Step 1: Understand the Basics of an Argumentative Essay

The first step in developing an argumentative essay is to choose a topic. You need to find a topic that is not only interesting to you but also has enough information and arguments available to support your point of view. Once you have chosen a topic, you can move on to creating an outline.

1.2 Supporting Arguments

The body of your essay is where you present your supporting arguments. Each supporting argument should be presented in a separate paragraph. You should start each paragraph with a topic sentence that clearly states the main point you will be discussing.

To support your arguments, you need to provide evidential proofs and examples. These proofs can include facts, statistics, expert opinions, or real-life examples. Make sure to use clear and concise language to keep your reader engaged.

1.3 Counterarguments and Rebuttal

In an argumentative essay, it’s important to address the opposing viewpoint. This helps to show that you have considered all sides of the argument and strengthens your own position. You can present the opposing viewpoint in a separate paragraph and then provide a rebuttal, explaining why the opposing viewpoint is not valid.

Creating an outline for your argumentative essay can make the writing process much easier. It helps you organize your thoughts and ensures that you have all the necessary information to effectively present your arguments. You can download a template or find similar outlines online to help you get started.

Remember, a strong argumentative essay clearly supports the thesis and addresses the opposing viewpoint. Use clear and concise language, provide evidential proofs, and always consider the counterarguments. With a well-developed outline, you’ll be on the right track to creating a powerful and persuasive argumentative essay!

Step 2: Research Your Topic and Gather Evidence

Finding the hook.

First and foremost, to grab your readers’ attention, you need a compelling hook. A hook can be in the form of a thought-provoking question, a controversial statement, or an interesting fact about your topic. The hook should be appropriate and relevant to your essay’s subject matter.

Gathering Evidence

To back up your thesis statement, you need to gather evidence that supports your position. Look for specific examples, statistics, research studies, or expert opinions that align with your viewpoint. Remember to find reliable sources and cite them appropriately to avoid any plagiarism issues.

Types of Evidence to Include

When gathering evidence, it is important to include a mix of different types to make your argument more powerful. Here are some common types of evidence:

  • Factual evidence: These are verifiable facts, such as statistics or historical data, that can support your claims.
  • Anecdotal evidence: These are personal stories or experiences that support your argument and make it relatable.
  • Expert opinion: Including quotes or statements from experts in the field can add credibility to your argument.
  • Logical reasoning: Use logical thinking to explain why your claims make sense. This can be done through the Toulmin model or other forms of logical frameworks.

Battling the Opposition

When researching your topic, it is important to familiarize yourself with the opposing viewpoints. Understanding the arguments of your opponents allows you to anticipate their counterarguments and address them in your essay. This can be done in the rebuttal section, which comes after presenting your arguments.

By acknowledging and refuting the opposing positions, you strengthen your own argument and show that you have considered different perspectives. This also demonstrates your ability to think critically and objectively.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When researching and gathering evidence, there are some common mistakes to avoid:

  • Using outdated or irrelevant sources
  • Not fact-checking the information
  • Only looking for evidence that supports your preconceived notions
  • Not acknowledging or addressing counterarguments

By avoiding these mistakes, you will improve the quality of your argument and ensure that it is well-reasoned and well-supported.

Step 3: Choose Your Side and Craft a Strong Thesis Statement

Choosing a side involves deciding whether you are in favor of or against a particular topic. For example, if your essay is about the consumption of pork, you must decide whether you support or oppose its consumption.

Your thesis statement should clearly state your position on the topic and provide a brief overview of the main points you will discuss in your essay. It should be concise, specific, and arguable. A strong thesis statement not only sets the tone for your essay, but it also acts as a guiding line for your arguments.

When crafting your thesis statement, it is important to take into consideration the opposing viewpoint and address counterarguments. This strengthens your argument and shows that you have thoroughly researched the topic, making your essay more persuasive and credible.

In some cases, your thesis statement may need to be revised or improved throughout the writing process. As you conduct further research and gather more evidence, you may find that your initial thesis statement needs adjustment. This is a normal part of the writing process, so don’t be afraid to make changes to strengthen your argument.

Remember to keep your thesis statement in line with the structure of your essay. Each body paragraph should correspond to a specific claim made in your thesis statement and support it with appropriate evidence. By following this format, your essay will have a clear and logical flow, making it easier for readers to understand and follow your arguments.

Here’s a sample outline of how the thesis statement and claims can be structured:

  • – Background information on the topic
  • – Thesis statement that clearly states your position

Body Paragraphs

  • – Claim 1: Negative health effects of consuming pork (evidential support)
  • – Claim 2: Unsustainability of pork production (evidential support)
  • – Claim 3: Ethical concerns related to pork consumption (evidential support)
  • – Restate thesis statement and main claims
  • – Summarize supporting evidence
  • – Conclude with a strong closing statement

By choosing a side, crafting a strong thesis statement, and organizing your arguments, you can create a powerful argumentative essay outline. Remember to address counterarguments and include conflicting evidence to make your arguments more convincing. With these tips in mind, you’ll be on your way to writing a compelling and well-structured argumentative essay.

Step 4: Create an Argumentative Essay Outline

Why is creating an outline essential.

Creating an outline is essential because it helps you to structure your essay in a logical and organized way. Without an outline, your essay may lack coherence and clarity, making it difficult for your readers to follow your argument. An outline also helps you to break down your essay into manageable sections, making the writing process more straightforward.

How to create an argumentative essay outline

1. Start with a clear thesis statement: Your thesis statement should clearly state your main argument or claim.

2. Break down your argument into key points: Identify the main points or arguments that support your thesis statement. These points will form the backbone of your essay and will serve as the basis for your body paragraphs.

3. Address opposing viewpoints: To strengthen your argument, anticipate and address opposing viewpoints or objections. Consider the strongest objections to your argument and develop rebuttals or counterarguments to refute them.

4. Organize your information: Organize your key points and evidence in a logical order. You can organize them chronologically, by importance, or by any other meaningful way that supports your argument.

5. Paint a clear picture: Use clear and concise language to paint a vivid picture of your argument. Provide evidence, examples, and explanations to support your claims and help your readers understand your point of view.

Remember that in an argumentative essay, evidence is key. Your arguments should be backed up with strong evidence from reliable sources. Use statistics, studies, expert opinions, and logical reasoning to support your claims.

Overall, creating an argumentative essay outline is an important step in developing a strong and persuasive essay. It helps you to organize your thoughts and ensures that your argument is clear, logical, and supported by evidence. By following the step-by-step approach outlined above, you can create an excellent argumentative essay that grabs your reader’s attention and convinces them of your viewpoint.

When structuring your body paragraphs, it is essential to follow a step-by-step approach to ensure clarity and coherence. Here are some tips to help you create excellent body paragraphs:

  • Start each body paragraph with a topic sentence that introduces the main idea you will discuss in that paragraph.
  • Include clear and specific supporting points that back up your main argument.
  • Provide factual and empirical evidence to support your claims, such as statistics, research findings, or expert opinions.
  • Address potential opposition and counterarguments in your essay and include rebuttals to strengthen your argument.
  • Use transitional words and phrases to ensure smooth flow and logical progression between paragraphs.
  • Restate and summarize your main points at the end of each body paragraph to reinforce your argument.

By following these steps, you can create a well-structured body section that effectively supports your main claim and persuades your audience. Remember to choose Aristotelian or Classical format templates and download sample essays for more assistance in creating your own argumentative essay.

Counterargument

Why counterarguments are important.

Counterarguments serve several important purposes in an argumentative essay:

  • Addressing opposing viewpoints: By including counterarguments, the writer shows they have thoroughly considered the topic and have taken into account different perspectives.
  • Strengthening the argument: By refuting counterarguments, the writer further supports their own viewpoint and demonstrates why it is the most valid one.
  • Backed by evidence: Counterarguments should be supported by evidence and reasoning to show their validity. This helps the writer present a well-rounded and convincing argument.

How to Include Counterarguments

Including counterarguments in an essay can be done in a few simple steps:

  • Find opposing viewpoints: Research and identify commonly held and opposing viewpoints on the topic of your essay.
  • Address counterarguments in the outline: When creating your essay outline, include a section for counterarguments. This ensures that you don’t forget to address them in your essay.
  • Refute counterarguments with evidence: In the body paragraphs of your essay, present counterarguments and refute them using logical reasoning and evidence.

Remember to use strong evidential support when refuting counterarguments. This can include examples, facts, statistics, and expert opinions. By doing so, you strengthen your own argument while weakening the opposing viewpoint.

Example of Addressing Counterarguments

Let’s take a look at a sample counterargument and how it can be refuted:

Counterargument: Some people argue that using animal testing for medical research is necessary for scientific advancement.

Refutation: While it is true that animal testing has contributed to medical breakthroughs in the past, advancements in technology and the development of alternative testing methods make it possible to conduct effective research without the ethical concerns and limitations of using animals.

By addressing counterarguments in this way, the writer acknowledges opposing viewpoints while still presenting a strong argument against the use of animal testing.

In the refutation section, your goal is to clearly and effectively refute the counterclaims or objections raised against your argument. This can be done in a variety of ways, depending on the structure of your essay and the particular points you are addressing.

One approach to refutation is using a classical argument format. In this format, you start by clearly stating the opposing claim, and then provide evidence or reasoning that refutes it. For example, if you are arguing that school uniforms improve student discipline, you might start the refutation paragraph by saying something like: “Some people claim that school uniforms restrict students’ freedom of expression. However, research has shown that uniforms actually enhance a sense of belonging and reduce peer pressure.”

Another approach to refutation is the Rogerian method, which is more empathetic and seeks to find common ground. In this approach, you acknowledge the validity of the opposing argument and then show how your argument is a better solution or compromise. For example, if you are arguing for stricter gun control laws, you might start the refutation paragraph by saying: “While it is true that the Second Amendment guarantees the right to bear arms, it is also important to consider the safety and well-being of all citizens. By implementing common-sense gun control measures, we can protect both individual rights and public safety.”

Whichever approach you choose, it is important to back up your refutation with evidence and examples. Use statistics, studies, expert opinions, and logical reasoning to show why the opposing argument is flawed or lacks merit. This will make your refutation more convincing and strengthen your overall argument.

What is the purpose of the conclusion in an argumentative essay?

The purpose of the conclusion in an argumentative essay is to summarize the main points of the essay and restate the thesis statement, while also leaving a lasting impression on the reader.

Is it necessary to include a conclusion in an argumentative essay?

Yes, it is necessary to include a conclusion in an argumentative essay as it helps to wrap up the essay and provide a sense of closure to the reader.

What are some effective strategies for writing a powerful conclusion in an argumentative essay?

Some effective strategies for writing a powerful conclusion in an argumentative essay include restating the thesis statement, summarizing the main points of the essay, and leaving the reader with a thought-provoking question or a call to action.

How can the conclusion of an argumentative essay leave a lasting impression on the reader?

The conclusion of an argumentative essay can leave a lasting impression on the reader by summarizing the main points of the essay in a clear and concise manner, restating the thesis statement, and providing a thought-provoking question or a call to action that leaves the reader thinking about the topic long after they have finished reading the essay.

What should be included in the final paragraph of an argumentative essay?

The final paragraph of an argumentative essay should include a restated thesis statement, a summary of the main points discussed in the essay, and a thought-provoking question or a call to action that encourages the reader to further consider the topic.

What is the purpose of a conclusion in an argumentative essay?

The purpose of a conclusion in an argumentative essay is to summarize the main points of the essay and restate the thesis statement. It should leave a lasting impression on the reader and provide a sense of closure to the essay.

How should I structure the conclusion of my argumentative essay?

The conclusion of an argumentative essay should follow a specific structure. First, you should restate the thesis statement and summarize the main points of the essay. Then, you should offer a final thought or call to action to leave a strong impression on the reader.

Alex Koliada, PhD

By Alex Koliada, PhD

Alex Koliada, PhD, is a well-known doctor. He is famous for studying aging, genetics, and other medical conditions. He works at the Institute of Food Biotechnology and Genomics. His scientific research has been published in the most reputable international magazines. Alex holds a BA in English and Comparative Literature from the University of Southern California , and a TEFL certification from The Boston Language Institute.

Argumentative Essay – Outline, Form, and Examples

Daniel Bal

What is an argumentative essay?

An argumentative essay requires the writer to investigate a specific topic by collecting and evaluating evidence to establish a position on the subject matter.

When preparing to compose a good argumentative essay, utilize the following steps:

Step 1: Select a topic.

Step 2: Identify a position.

Step 3: Locate appropriate resources.

Step 4: Identify evidence supporting the position. ( NOTE: If there is little evidence in support of the claim, consider re-examining the main argument.)

Steps to write an argumentative essay

When gathering evidence, use credible sources . To determine the credibility of the source, consider authority, currency, accuracy, and objectivity:

Who is the author ? Are they an expert in the field? Has a reputable publisher published the work?

How current is the information in the source? Does the currency of the source matter? Does the age of the source impact the content? Is there newer information that disproves the source’s information?

Can other sources verify the accuracy of the information? Does the information contradict that found in other commonly accepted sources?

Is there any evidence of bias, or is the source objective ? Is the research sponsored by an organization that may skew the information?

The following are typically recognized as providing appropriate, credible research material:

Peer-reviewed journals/research papers

Government agencies

Professional organizations

Library databases

Reference books

Credible sources

Writers should avoid using the following sources:

Social media posts

Out-of-date materials

Step 5: Utilize the research to determine a thesis statement that identifies the topic, position, and support(s).

Step 6: Use the evidence to construct an outline, detailing the main supports and relevant evidence.

Steps to write an argumentative essay

Argumentative essay outline

After gathering all of the necessary research, the next step in composing an argumentative essay focuses on organizing the information through the use of an outline:

Introduction

Attention Grabber/Hook

Background Information: Include any background information pertinent to the topic that the reader needs to know to understand the argument.

Thesis: State the position in connection to the main topic and identify the supports that will help prove the argument.

Topic sentence

Identify evidence in support of the claim in the topic sentence

Explain how the evidence supports the argument

Evidence 3 (Continue as needed)

Support 2 (Continue as needed)

Restate thesis

Review main supports

Concluding statement

Invite the audience to take a specific action.

Identify the overall importance of the topic and position.

Argumentative essay outline

How to write an argumentative essay

Regardless of the writer’s topic or point of view, an argumentative essay should include an introductory paragraph, body paragraphs, a conclusion, and works cited.

Background information

Body Paragraphs

Analysis of evidence

Rephrased thesis

Review of main ideas

Call to action

Works Cited

Components of an argumentative essay

Argumentative essay introduction

The introduction sets the tone for the entire paper and introduces the argument. In general, the first paragraph(s) should attract the reader’s attention, provide relevant context, and conclude with a thesis statement.

To attract the reader's attention , start with an introductory device. There are several attention-grabbing techniques, the most common of which consist of the following:

The writer can emphasize the topic’s importance by explaining the current interest in the topic or indicating that the subject is influential.

Pertinent statistics give the paper an air of authority.

There are many reasons for a stimulating statement to surprise a reader. Sometimes it is joyful; sometimes it is shocking; sometimes it is surprising because of who said it.

An interesting incident or anecdote can act as a teaser to lure the reader into the remainder of the essay. Be sure that the device is appropriate for the subject and focus of what follows.

Provide the reader with relevant context and background information necessary to understand the topic.

Conclude with a thesis statement that identifies the overall purpose of the essay (topic and position). Writers can also include their support directly in the thesis, which outlines the structure of the essay for the reader.

Avoid the following when writing the introduction to argumentative writing:

Starting with dictionary definitions is too overdone and unappealing.

Do not make an announcement of the topic like “In this paper I will…” or “The purpose of this essay is to….”

Evidence supporting or developing the thesis should be in the body paragraphs, not the introduction.

Beginning the essay with general or absolute statements such as “throughout history...” or “as human beings we always...” or similar statements suggest the writer knows all of history or that all people behave or think in the same way.

Argumentative essay thesis

The thesis statement is the single, specific claim the writer sets out to prove and is typically positioned as the last sentence of the introduction . It is the controlling idea of the entire argument that identifies the topic, position, and reasoning.

When constructing a thesis for an argumentative paper, make sure it contains a side of the argument, not simply a topic. An argumentative thesis identifies the writer’s position on a given topic. If a position cannot be taken, then it is not argumentative thesis:

Topic: Capital punishment is practiced in many states.

Thesis: Capital punishment should be illegal.

While not always required, the thesis statement can include the supports the writer will use to prove the main claim. Therefore, a thesis statement can be structured as follows:

TOPIC + POSITION (+ SUPPORTS)

No Supports: College athletes (TOPIC) should be financially compensated (POSITION).

Supports: College athletes (TOPIC) should be financially compensated (POSITION) because they sacrifice their minds and bodies (SUPPORT 1), cannot hold

Argumentative essay body paragraphs

Body paragraphs can be of varying lengths, but they must present a coherent argument unified under a single topic. They are rarely ever longer than one page, double-spaced; usually they are much shorter.

Lengthy paragraphs indicate a lack of structure. Identify the main ideas of a lengthy paragraph to determine if they make more sense as separate topics in separate paragraphs.

Shorter paragraphs usually indicate a lack of substance; there is not enough evidence or analysis to prove the argument. Develop the ideas more or integrate the information into another paragraph.

The structure of an argumentative paragraph should include a topic sentence, evidence, and a transition.

The topic sentence is the thesis of the paragraph that identifies the arguable point in support of the main argument. The reader should know exactly what the writer is trying to prove within the paragraph by reading the first sentence.

The supporting evidence and analysis provide information to support the claim. There should be a balance between the evidence (facts, quotations, summary of events/plot, etc.) and analysis (interpretation of evidence). If the paragraph is evidence-heavy, there is not much of an argument; if it is analysis-heavy, there is not enough evidence in support of the claim.

The transition can be at the beginning or the end of a paragraph. However, it is much easier to combine the transition with the concluding observation to help the paragraphs flow into one another. Transitions in academic writing should tell the reader where you were, where you are going, and relate to the thesis.

Some essays may benefit from the inclusion of rebuttals to potential counterarguments of the writer’s position.

Argumentative essay conclusion

The conclusion should make readers glad they read the paper. It can suggest broader implications that will not only interest readers but also enrich their understanding in some way. There are three aspects to follow when constructing the conclusion: rephrase the thesis, synthesize information, and call the reader to action.

Rephrased the thesis in the first sentence of the conclusion. It must be in different words; do not simply write it verbatim.

Synthesize the argument by showing how the paper's main points support the argument.

Propose a course of action or a solution to an issue. This can redirect the reader's thought process to apply the ideas to their life or to see the broader implications of the topic.

Avoid the following when constructing the conclusion:

Beginning with an unnecessary, overused phrase such as "in conclusion," "in summary," or "in closing;" although these phrases can work in speeches, they come across as trite in writing

Introducing a new idea or subtopic in the conclusion

Making sentimental, emotional appeals that are out of character with the rest of the paper

Including evidence (quotations, statistics, etc.) that should be in the body of the paper

Argumentative essay examples

Examples of argumentative essays vary depending upon the type:

Academic essays differ based upon the topic and position. These essays follow a more traditional structure and are typically assigned in high school or college. Examples of academic argumentative essay topics include the following:

Advantages or disadvantages of social media

Animal testing

Art education

Benefit or detriment of homework

Capital punishment

Class warfare

Immigration

School uniforms

Universal healthcare

Violence in video games

Argumentative literary essays are typically more informal and do not follow the same structure as an academic essay. The following are popular examples of argumentative literary essays:

“Letter from Birmingham Jail” by Martin Luther King, Jr.

“Death of the Moth” by Virginia Woolf

“Shooting an Elephant” by George Orwell

“Thoughts for the Times on War and Death” by Sigmund Freud

“Does the Truth Matter? Science, Pseudoscience, and Civilization” by Carl Sagan

“Self-Reliance” by Ralph Waldo Emerson

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How to Write an Argumentative Research Paper

Last Updated: December 9, 2022 Fact Checked

This article was co-authored by Christopher Taylor, PhD . Christopher Taylor is an Adjunct Assistant Professor of English at Austin Community College in Texas. He received his PhD in English Literature and Medieval Studies from the University of Texas at Austin in 2014. There are 14 references cited in this article, which can be found at the bottom of the page. This article has been fact-checked, ensuring the accuracy of any cited facts and confirming the authority of its sources. This article has been viewed 367,615 times.

An argumentative essay requires you to make an argument about something and support your point of view using evidence in the form of primary and secondary sources. The argumentative essay is a common assignment, but teachers may present it in a variety of different ways. You can learn how to write an argumentative essay by following some standard steps for writing an essay as well as by doing some things that are required for argumentative essays, such as citing your sources.

Sample Outlines

create an outline for an argumentative research essay

Getting Started

Step 1 Learn the basic features of an argumentative essay.

  • a thesis statement that makes a clear argument (provided in the first paragraph)
  • claims that help prove your overall argument
  • logical transitions that connect paragraphs and sentences
  • support for your claims from your sources
  • a conclusion that considers the evidence you have presented
  • in-text citations throughout your essay to indicate where you have used sources (ask your teacher about what citation style to use)
  • a works cited page with an entry for each of your sources (ask your teacher about what citation style to use)

Step 2 Ask for clarification.

  • Make sure that you understand how to cite your sources for the paper and how to use the documentation style your teacher prefers. If you’re not sure, just ask.
  • Don’t feel bad if you have questions. It is better to ask and make sure that you understand than to do the assignment wrong and get a bad grade.

Step 3 Generate ideas for your argumentative essay.

  • Listing List all of the ideas that you have for your essay (good or bad) and then look over the list you have made and group similar ideas together. Expand those lists by adding more ideas or by using another prewriting activity. [3] X Research source
  • Freewriting Write nonstop for about 10 minutes. Write whatever comes to mind and don’t edit yourself. When you are done, review what you have written and highlight or underline the most useful information. Repeat the freewriting exercise using the passages you underlined as a starting point. You can repeat this exercise multiple times to continue to refine and develop your ideas. [4] X Research source
  • Clustering Write a brief explanation (phrase or short sentence) of the subject of your argumentative essay on the center of a piece of paper and circle it. Then draw three or more lines extending from the circle. Write a corresponding idea at the end of each of these lines. Continue developing your cluster until you have explored as many connections as you can. [5] X Research source
  • Questioning On a piece of paper, write out “Who? What? When? Where? Why? How?” Space the questions about two or three lines apart on the paper so that you can write your answers on these lines. Respond to each question in as much detail as you can. [6] X Research source

Step 4 Think about how you will incorporate ethos, pathos, and logos.

  • Ethos refers to a writer’s credibility or trustworthiness. To convince your readers that your argument is valid, you need to convince them that you are trustworthy. You can accomplish this goal by presenting yourself as confident, fair, and approachable. You can achieve these objectives by avoiding wishy-washy statements, presenting information in an unbiased manner, and identifying common ground between yourself and your readers(including the ones that may disagree with you). You can also show your authority, another aspect of ethos, by demonstrating that you’ve done thorough research on the topic.
  • Pathos refers to your use of emotional appeals. Emotional appeals have a place in argumentative writing, but overuse of them may lead a reader to reject your argument. Make sure that your use of emotional appeals is minimal and appropriate. Some ways that you can incorporate pathos into your paper without turning off your readers includes using descriptive language that evokes the desired reaction (positive or negative) to your subject, especially when you use other people’s language—such as quotes—to do so (which avoids damaging your ethos with overly emotional language). You can also invoke pathos by providing relevant examples that evoke an emotional response in your readers and using figurative language (such as metaphors) to help your readers understand and sympathize with your point of view.
  • Logos refers to your use of logic, reasoning, and sequencing. This means setting up your argument in a way that uses logic to achieve your desired endpoint or reaction, often through inductive and deductive reasoning. For example, you can appeal to your readers’ desire for logic by organizing your examples in a way that shows your argument in the best light and is easy to follow, such as chronologically, by cause and effect, or by problem and solution.

Step 5 Develop your tentative thesis.

  • Place your thesis statement at the end of your first paragraph unless your instructor tells you to place it elsewhere. The end of the first paragraph is the traditional place to provide your thesis in an academic essay.

Step 6 Make sure your thesis is arguable.

  • For example, an arguable thesis statement might be something like, “The drinking age should be reduced to 18 in the United States.” This statement is arguable because it presents a position that others might debate by saying “The drinking age should not be reduced to 18 in the US.” Or, others might argue that the drinking age should be abolished altogether or even raised. There are many possibilities for a counter argument, which makes this topic arguable.

Step 7 Make sure your thesis provides enough detail.

  • For example, a detailed thesis statement might be something like, “Because youth are more drawn to drinking as a way to rebel, lowering the drinking age to 18 in the United States would help to reduce binge drinking among teenagers and college students.” This thesis still provides a position that could be debated, but it also explains the reasoning behind the position. Providing this detail gives readers a good sense of what the rest of the paper will discuss.
  • Your thesis should tell your reader why your argument matters, and for whom.

Step 8 Develop a rough...

  • Organize your outline by essay part and then break those parts into subsections. For example, part 1 might be your introduction, which could then be broken into three sub-parts: a)Opening sentence, b)context/background information c)thesis statement.

Research Your Topic

Step 1 Generate key terms and phrases to help you with your research.

  • For example, some relevant key terms and phrases for a paper on lowering the drinking age to 18 might be: “drinking”, “underage”, “minors”, “binge”, “rebellion”, “drinking age”, “binge drinking culture”, “countries with low drinking age”, “drinking and rebellion”, etc.

Step 2 Find appropriate secondary sources for your argumentative essay.

  • Use your library’s databases rather than a general internet search. University libraries subscribe to many databases, such as EBSCO and JSTOR. These databases provide you with free access to articles and other resources that you cannot usually gain access to by using a search engine. Schedule an appointment with a librarian at your school’s library if you are not sure about how to use the library databases.
  • If your university doesn’t subscribe to any databases, use Google Scholar.

Step 3 Evaluate your sources...

  • Author's credentials Choose sources that include an author’s name and that provide credentials for that author. The credentials should indicate something about why this person is qualified to speak as an authority on the subject. For example, an article about a medical condition will be more trustworthy if the author is a medical doctor. If you find a source where no author is listed or the author does not have any credentials, then this source may not be trustworthy.
  • Citations Think about whether or not this author has adequately researched the topic. Check the author’s bibliography or works cited page. If the author has provided few or no sources, then this source may not be trustworthy.
  • Bias Think about whether or not this author has presented an objective, well-reasoned account of the topic. How often does the tone indicate a strong preference for one side of the argument? How often does the argument dismiss or disregard the opposition’s concerns or valid arguments? If these are regular occurrences in the source, then it may not be a good choice.
  • Publication date Think about whether or not this source presents the most up to date information on the subject. Noting the publication date is especially important for scientific subjects, since new technologies and techniques have made some earlier findings irrelevant.
  • Information provided in the source If you are still questioning the trustworthiness of this source, cross check some of the information provided against a trustworthy source. If the information that this author presents contradicts one of your trustworthy sources, then it might not be a good source to use in your paper.

Step 4 Read your research.

  • To be certain that you understand your sources and that you are capable of responding to each of them, try writing a paragraph summary and response after you finish each one. Some people find keeping notecards on their sources to be a helpful way of organizing their ideas about each one. [15] X Research source
  • Misunderstanding and misrepresenting your sources can damage your credibility as an author and also have a negative effect on your grade. Give yourself plenty of time to read your sources and understand what they are saying.

Step 5 Take notes while you read your sources.

  • Be careful to properly cite your sources when taking notes. Even accidental plagiarism may result in a failing grade on a paper.

Drafting Your Essay

Step 1 Begin your essay with an engaging sentence that gets right into your topic.

  • For example, an argumentative essay about lowering the drinking age might begin with something like, “Binge drinking culture is killing teens in the United States, but it hasn’t always been this way.” This sentence offers a compelling statement and it also acts as a launch pad for you to provide some background on your topic.

Step 2 Provide background information to help guide your readers.

  • For example, if you are arguing that lowering the drinking age would help to counter binge drinking among teens and young adults, your introduction should talk about the damage that is being done by binge drinking. Tell your readers about this problem in more detail so that they will begin to see why something needs to change.
  • Keep in mind that your background information in the first paragraph should lead up to your thesis statement. Explain everything the reader needs to know to understand what your topic is about, then narrow it down until you reach the topic itself.

Step 3 Provide your thesis statement at the end of your first paragraph.

  • For example, a thesis statement for a paper on lowering the drinking age might look something like, “Because the current drinking age of 21 in the United States does more harm than good by proliferating binge drinking culture among teens, the drinking age should be lowered to 18.” This thesis provides a straightforward position and reason for that position that readers can easily identify as the author’s main argument.
  • In your thesis, you should also address how you’ll support your argument and why your argument matters.

Step 4 Use your body paragraphs to discuss specific parts of your argument.

  • For example, one of your body paragraphs might begin with something like, “Teens are more likely to engage in binge drinking in the United States than in countries where the drinking age is lower or non-existent.”
  • You might then follow up this claim with evidence from your sources. For example, you could provide statistics on teen drinking in other countries where the drinking age is lower, or you could summarize an interview with an authority of the subject, or cite an article that explains the psychological basis of this phenomenon. Whatever source(s) you choose, make sure that they are relevant that they offer convincing support for your claim.

Step 5 Develop a conclusion for your essay.

  • Rephrase your thesis. It is often helpful to remind your readers of the initial argument, but don’t simply restate your thesis if you do this. Rephrase it so that it sounds different but has the same meaning. Summarize some of the most important evidence you have offered in your essay and say remind readers of how that evidence has contributed to supporting your thesis.
  • Synthesize what you have discussed. Put everything together for your readers and explain what other lessons might be gained from your argument. How might this discussion change the way others view your subject?
  • Explain why your topic matters. Help your readers to see why this topic deserve their attention. How does this topic affect your readers? What are the broader implications of this topic? Why does your topic matter?
  • Return to your opening discussion. If you offered an anecdote or a quote early in your paper, it might be helpful to revisit that opening discussion and explore how the information you have gathered implicates that discussion.

Step 6 Make sure that you have cited all of your sources.

  • Ask your teacher what documentation style he or she prefers that you use if it is not mentioned in the assignment guidelines.
  • Visit your school’s writing center for additional help with your works cited page and in-text citations.

Revising Your Essay

Step 1 Put aside your paper for a few days before revising.

  • What is your main point? How might you clarify your main point?
  • Who is your audience? Have you considered their needs and expectations?
  • What is your purpose? Have you accomplished your purpose with this paper?
  • How effective is your evidence? How might your strengthen your evidence?
  • Does every part of your paper relate back to your thesis? How might you improve these connections?
  • Is anything confusing about your language or organization? How might your clarify your language or organization?
  • Have you made any errors with grammar, punctuation, or spelling? How can you correct these errors?
  • What might someone who disagrees with you say about your paper? How can you address these opposing arguments in your paper? [25] X Research source

Step 4 Proofread a printed version of your final draft.

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  • ↑ https://owl.purdue.edu/owl/general_writing/academic_writing/essay_writing/argumentative_essays.html
  • ↑ http://writing.ku.edu/prewriting-strategies
  • ↑ https://stlcc.edu/student-support/academic-success-and-tutoring/writing-center/writing-resources/pathos-logos-and-ethos.aspx
  • ↑ https://owl.english.purdue.edu/owl/resource/673/1/
  • ↑ http://writingcenter.unc.edu/handouts/thesis-statements/
  • ↑ https://academicguides.waldenu.edu/writingcenter/writingprocess/outlining
  • ↑ https://apus.libanswers.com/faq/2316
  • ↑ https://libguides.schoolcraft.edu/c.php?g=430555&p=3011200
  • ↑ http://guides.jwcc.edu/content.php?pid=65900&sid=538553
  • ↑ http://www.writing.utoronto.ca/advice/reading-and-researching/notes-from-research
  • ↑ https://www.grammarly.com/blog/argumentative-essay/
  • ↑ https://writing.wisc.edu/handbook/process/revisingargument/
  • ↑ https://owl.english.purdue.edu/owl/resource/561/05/
  • ↑ https://writingcenter.unc.edu/tips-and-tools/editing-and-proofreading/

About This Article

Christopher Taylor, PhD

To write an argumentative research paper, choose a topic that can be argued from one or more perspectives, then pick a side. Start your paper with a thesis statement summing up your position, then support your statement with facts and arguments gathered from reputable sources. Use background information or context to help guide your readers through your essay, telling them what they need to know to understand the rest of your argument. For different approaches you can use while revising your paper, read on! Did this summary help you? Yes No

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Argumentative Essay Outline: Writing Steps & Examples

Argumentative Essay Outline

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An argumentative essay outline is a roadmap for the writer to organize their thoughts, research, and arguments in a clear and logical way. It helps to stay focused on the topic and effectively present arguments. Creating an outline before writing an argumentative essay allows students to identify the key points and evidence that should back up ideas.

Struggling with an argumentative essay outline? Stuck at the beginning or not sure which format to take? It’s okay, you’ll find some explanations and pieces of advice here, as well as an argument outline template you could use. We’ve collected everything you need to know before composing an outline for your top-notch argumentative paper. This page contains information about:

  • The notion of outline and why it is important
  • Specifics of sketching an essay where you defend your position
  • Argument essay layout
  • Several useful tips and examples.

Ready to receive some help with your work? Let’s get you prepared to write an excellent essay!

What Is an Argumentative Essay Outline?

Before starting to work on an argumentative paper outline, it is important to understand its definition and purpose. So, what is the outline for an argumentative essay? Outline for an argumentative essay involves defending one’s position on a certain topic by using logic and factual evidence. It requires doing preliminary research and presenting your findings in sketch form. An argumentative essay outline forms the essay’s basic structure and contains its main elements, briefly described and connected together using logical transitions. Once you finish and review this short version, it will be much easier to spot mistakes and logical gaps. After correcting them, you’ll be one step away from writing a high-quality essay.

Argumentative Essay Outline Format

Setting a correct format for argumentative essay outline is important, as it ensures that the entire composition will be properly organized. This is where you create the logical structure, which can be checked for gaps and mistakes before writing the complete text. A simple argumentative essay outline should be composed like this:

  • Introduction This part contains your main topic description and your thesis statement. The latter should be provided fully, while the other descriptions can be sketchy at this stage. Try using some kind of a ‘hook’ to engage your readers.
  • Body paragraphs It is where you briefly introduce your arguments, as well as counterarguments you aim to refute. Mention your evidence and include your sources, but don’t be too wordy, as this is just a sketch for now.
  • Conclusion It should briefly summarize the argumentation and how it supports your thesis.

More examples of an argumentative essay structure outline are available in our downloadable materials.

Learn more: How to Write an Argumentative Essay Introduction

Types of an Argumentative Essay Outline

Before learning how to write an outline for an argumentative essay, you must figure out which type is best for your specific topic. This information might be specified in your assignment, otherwise, it is up to you. The layout of an argumentative essay you’re writing depends on the persuasive approach you’ve chosen. There are three main types:

  • Classical, also known as Aristotelian

Now let's talk about each argument essay outline type in detail. We’ll show you what the differences between them are and when it is better to choose one or another.

Classical Argumentative Essay Outline

Let’s start with the classical argument outline. It is also named Aristotelian, honoring the memory of the ancient Greek philosopher who perfected the logical method of presenting argumentation. The general structure should follow a 5 paragraph essay format . Here is how you should compose your outline of an argumentative essay when using this structure type:

  • Explain your thesis, making it clear
  • Mention the opposing thesis if there is one
  • List your arguments, referring to evidence you have collected
  • Mention counterarguments, providing evidence that contradicts them
  • Summarize it, showing that your thesis has been proven by your arguments.

This type is used for direct discussions and straightforward topics.

Rogerian Argumentative Essay Outline

In a Rogerian outline for an argumentative essay, you are expected to pay more attention to the opposing viewpoints, considering the strong and weak sides of both. In this case, the paper focuses not on refuting antagonistic argumentation but rather on finding some middle ground. This argumentative essay layout can be used when you’re aiming to help two opposing sides reach a mutual agreement at a certain point. Another situation when you should consider such an approach is when addressing an audience hostile to your viewpoint – for example, when arguing against the rules or habits of a specific group.

Toulmin Argumentative Essay Outline

When your topic needs some complicated analysis on different levels, use the Toulmin outline of an argumentative essay. This model is based on six main elements:

  • Claim – your central statement
  • Grounds – evidence backing the claim
  • Warrant – logical connection between the grounds and the claim
  • Backings – additional arguments strengthening the warrant
  • Qualifier – the measure of certainty in the claim
  • Rebuttal – refutes possible counterarguments to the claim.

This format of argumentative essay outline should be used for refuting existing argumentation against your own claim. If you are struggling with outlining your argumentative essay, re-check its main points. Correcting mistakes early on saves hundreds of working hours. To save even more, consider to buy college essays from professional academic writers. 

Argumentative Essay Outline Template

Have you picked your paper format? If yes, you should be ready to proceed. Need an argumentative outline template? If you still hesitate and search for extra hints, it's fine – there are plenty of them on this page! We’ve prepared a comprehensive argument essay outline template for each of the main types described in the previous section. You can find them below.

Classical Argumentative Essay Outline Template

If your task is to simply present your point of view on a certain subject and back it up with solid facts, you need a classical argument essay outline. This is the most common and straightforward type of structuring your argumentation, so it can be freely used unless your situation requires a different approach. Here is our outline for argumentative essay example:

  • Intriguing description or some wordplay to ‘hook’ your audience
  • Brief context of the problem
  • Your full thesis statement together with an extra explanation if necessary
  • Data set #1
  • Data set #2, etc.
  • Your argument #2: Formatted the same way as the previous one
  • Point out its logical flaws or provide the evidence that refutes it (or refutatio).
  • Briefly mention how this analysis results in reinforcing your own position.
  • Counterargument #2: This and further ones should be formatted in exactly the same way
  • Summarize your argumentation without repeating it and show how it supports your thesis (this part is also known as peroratio).
  • Add some final notes or a call to action to engage your audience.

Rogerian Argumentative Essay Outline Template

When attempting to counter a formidable position, you need to pay great attention to opposing claims. You might want to find some common ground and reach an agreement with the opposing side, and that is what the Rogerian type is meant for. Follow this argument essay template for conducting an extra analysis of conflicting viewpoints:

  • Describe the problem and add brief context if necessary.
  • Explain your own viewpoint on it as well as opposing stances. You might pick the most well-known of them or the one which shares enough common ground with your position if that helps. Highlight this common ground.
  • Give your thesis statement in a full sentence.
  • Explore the evidence which supports it.
  • Analyze the strength of this position, given the quality of evidence. See if it can be refuted.
  • Mention other positions, if any. Follow the same format as used for the first one.
  • Explain that you understand the opposing position and the reasons behind it.
  • Highlight specific details or areas where you have common ground with the opponent.
  • Your argument #1: explain how it is related to your thesis and provide the supporting evidence.
  • Your argument #1: present it in the same format as the 1st one. The same goes for all other arguments.
  • Point out the elements of both positions which you and your opponent could agree upon.
  • Develop a compromising solution that would encompass these agreeable elements from both sides.
  • Summarize the compromise and the arguments from both sides which back it.
  • Explain how both sides could benefit from agreeing upon this common ground position.

Check below for more argumentative essay outline examples.

Toulmin Argumentative Essay Outline Template

This argument template for an essay will be useful in case of facing complicated argumentation, which should be properly analyzed. The Toulmin format outline argumentative essay example is here:

  • Come up with something interesting to ‘hook’ your audience.
  • Provide a brief context of the problem.
  • Give your full thesis statement.
  • Evidence #1, including the logical connection between it and your claim
  • Evidence #2, formatted in the same way, etc.
  • Briefly show how it supports your thesis.
  • Show which of your evidence elements backs this warrant.
  • Provide qualifiers for your argumentation: be open and show its weak sides.
  • Your warrant #2, formatted in the same way, etc.
  • Analyze their claim, evaluating its warrants and qualifiers.
  • Provide your rebuttal.
  • Opposing viewpoint #2, formatted in the same way, etc.
  • Briefly summarize your warrants.
  • Summarize the opposing viewpoints, mentioning how you have refuted them.
  • Show that your thesis is supported better.

How to Write an Argumentative Essay Outline Step-By-Step

Let’s put together all the tips on how to write an argumentative essay outline . This section contains a quick guide that could serve as your argumentative essay planning sheet. Make sure to follow this recommended course when composing an academic paper:

  • Think it through Making an argumentative writing outline efficient and persuasive requires good knowledge of the selected topic. So, choose one you are familiar with. You must be able to explain your position well and defend it successfully. And don’t pick an easy one. It should be interesting enough for your audience to get engaged.
  • Do your research Gather key information about your problem before writing an argumentative essay outline. Check if you have enough evidence to back your claim and refute possible counterarguments. Verify that it clearly shows what you actually need and doesn’t prove an opposing position.
  • Pick a format Given the specifics of the chosen problem, find out which approach will suit you best: Classical, Rogerian, or Toulmin. If you start creating your argumentative essay outline in one format and then realize that you need to switch to another, you might lose a lot of time. Too risky for those who have tight deadlines!
  • Structure it properly Follow the recommended templates and put every argument outline into a separate paragraph. The same applies to introductory sections. Remember that proper formatting increases your essay’s readability and thus serves your cause.
  • Keep it concise Make it brief but understandable, ensuring that all key points and data are mentioned. Remember that you just need to outline an argumentative essay, not write the full text. Besides, writing briefly saves you some precious time.
  • Review and correct Spend some time going through your argumentative research essay outline and check carefully for errors or gaps. Read it to yourself or ask someone else to give it as much critique as possible. If you miss something important now, it will be more difficult to find and correct this mistake later.

These tips should be enough for creating an argumentative essay outline for high school and college. You can check how to write an argumentative essay in one of our guides. But also check the samples we've collected for you – maybe you’ll get some extra ideas for your own work. 

Argumentative Essay Outline Examples

Searching for a real argumentative outline example? We’ve collected several outlines for essays addressing popular questions. Check them out, and hopefully, you’ll draw some inspiration from them, which will help you with your own work. Just don’t copy any of that content, as it would mean plagiarism. Don’t forget about the downloadable argumentative essay outline sample. Scroll down, and you’ll find it. Death Penalty Argument Outline Example

Example of Argumentative Essay Outline on Death Penalty

Sample Outline for Argumentative Essay on Abortion

Sample of Argumentative Essay Outline on Abortion

Argument Essay Outline Example on Human Trafficking

Example of Argument Essay Outline on Human Trafficking

Sample of Argumentative Essay Outline on Gender Equality

Example of Argumentative Essay Outline on Gender Equality

Argumentative Essay Outline Example on Bullying

Example of Argumentative Essay Outline on Bullying

Browse StudyCrumb’s Blog to find complete argumentative essay examples formatted accordingly.

Argumentative Paper Outline Checklist

Here’s also a brief list of what should be written in an outline for an argument:

Bottom Line on Argumentative Essay Outline

We have shown in detail how to outline an argumentative essay and what are main structure types you could use for it, namely:

We have also listed what should an outline for an argumentative essay include, particularly:

  • Introduction with context and a ‘hook’
  • Thesis statement
  • Arguments with supporting evidence
  • Counterarguments with their rebuttal
  • Conclusion.

An argumentative writing template has also been provided. We believe that this information will help you complete an excellent paper on any argumentative essay topic .  If you are still unsure about your writing skills, StudyCrumb got you covered. Remember this phrase — " write an argumentative essay for me ." It's a secret pass to tell our Support reps. Say it, and the magic will happen.

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FAQ About Argumentative Essay Outline

1. why is it important to create an argumentative essay outline.

Writing an argument essay outline helps to form its layout and properly place the main elements: thesis, background, arguments, evidence, and conclusion. It serves as an argumentative essay plan with logical transitions between the key elements. Now you can read this draft version again and spot any inconsistencies before composing the full-text version. That is a much easier task.

3. What should be included in the outline for an argument?

Your argument outline needs to include the following:

  • Analysis of certain aspects of the problem which you could use to clearly maintain your point
  • Logic and reasoning to defend your position using your debate skills
  • Solid evidence retrieved from credible sources to back your claim
  • Visible connection to your thesis and your other arguments, otherwise, your audience might have an issue with understanding your essay.

2. What should include a strong outline for an argumentative essay?

A strong outline for an argumentative essay should include:

  • Strong thesis, preferably about an interesting and controversial problem
  • Proper arguments backed by logic and solid evidence
  • Credible sources you can obtain the evidence from
  • Proper rebuttal for counterarguments, pointing at their weak sides
  • Logical connection between all parts of your outline
  • Conclusion, which summarizes all arguments and rebuttals, showing that your thesis is maintained.

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  • checkbox My thesis statement is full and clear.
  • checkbox I provided the necessary context of the selected problem.
  • checkbox I considered the ‘hook’ in order to engage your audience.
  • checkbox Main arguments that support the thesis are logically connected to each other.
  • checkbox I selected solid evidence backing the arguments.
  • checkbox I planned the main counterarguments , together with their rebuttal based on facts and logic.
  • checkbox My conclusion is going to summarize the strength of my position compared to opposing ones.
  • checkbox My argument writing template includes a strong call to action and gives some food for thought.

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Argumentative Essays

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The Modes of Discourse—Exposition, Description, Narration, Argumentation (EDNA)—are common paper assignments you may encounter in your writing classes. Although these genres have been criticized by some composition scholars, the Purdue OWL recognizes the wide spread use of these approaches and students’ need to understand and produce them.

What is an argumentative essay?

The argumentative essay is a genre of writing that requires the student to investigate a topic; collect, generate, and evaluate evidence; and establish a position on the topic in a concise manner.

Please note : Some confusion may occur between the argumentative essay and the expository essay. These two genres are similar, but the argumentative essay differs from the expository essay in the amount of pre-writing (invention) and research involved. The argumentative essay is commonly assigned as a capstone or final project in first year writing or advanced composition courses and involves lengthy, detailed research. Expository essays involve less research and are shorter in length. Expository essays are often used for in-class writing exercises or tests, such as the GED or GRE.

Argumentative essay assignments generally call for extensive research of literature or previously published material. Argumentative assignments may also require empirical research where the student collects data through interviews, surveys, observations, or experiments. Detailed research allows the student to learn about the topic and to understand different points of view regarding the topic so that she/he may choose a position and support it with the evidence collected during research. Regardless of the amount or type of research involved, argumentative essays must establish a clear thesis and follow sound reasoning.

The structure of the argumentative essay is held together by the following.

  • A clear, concise, and defined thesis statement that occurs in the first paragraph of the essay.

In the first paragraph of an argument essay, students should set the context by reviewing the topic in a general way. Next the author should explain why the topic is important ( exigence ) or why readers should care about the issue. Lastly, students should present the thesis statement. It is essential that this thesis statement be appropriately narrowed to follow the guidelines set forth in the assignment. If the student does not master this portion of the essay, it will be quite difficult to compose an effective or persuasive essay.

  • Clear and logical transitions between the introduction, body, and conclusion.

Transitions are the mortar that holds the foundation of the essay together. Without logical progression of thought, the reader is unable to follow the essay’s argument, and the structure will collapse. Transitions should wrap up the idea from the previous section and introduce the idea that is to follow in the next section.

  • Body paragraphs that include evidential support.

Each paragraph should be limited to the discussion of one general idea. This will allow for clarity and direction throughout the essay. In addition, such conciseness creates an ease of readability for one’s audience. It is important to note that each paragraph in the body of the essay must have some logical connection to the thesis statement in the opening paragraph. Some paragraphs will directly support the thesis statement with evidence collected during research. It is also important to explain how and why the evidence supports the thesis ( warrant ).

However, argumentative essays should also consider and explain differing points of view regarding the topic. Depending on the length of the assignment, students should dedicate one or two paragraphs of an argumentative essay to discussing conflicting opinions on the topic. Rather than explaining how these differing opinions are wrong outright, students should note how opinions that do not align with their thesis might not be well informed or how they might be out of date.

  • Evidential support (whether factual, logical, statistical, or anecdotal).

The argumentative essay requires well-researched, accurate, detailed, and current information to support the thesis statement and consider other points of view. Some factual, logical, statistical, or anecdotal evidence should support the thesis. However, students must consider multiple points of view when collecting evidence. As noted in the paragraph above, a successful and well-rounded argumentative essay will also discuss opinions not aligning with the thesis. It is unethical to exclude evidence that may not support the thesis. It is not the student’s job to point out how other positions are wrong outright, but rather to explain how other positions may not be well informed or up to date on the topic.

  • A conclusion that does not simply restate the thesis, but readdresses it in light of the evidence provided.

It is at this point of the essay that students may begin to struggle. This is the portion of the essay that will leave the most immediate impression on the mind of the reader. Therefore, it must be effective and logical. Do not introduce any new information into the conclusion; rather, synthesize the information presented in the body of the essay. Restate why the topic is important, review the main points, and review your thesis. You may also want to include a short discussion of more research that should be completed in light of your work.

A complete argument

Perhaps it is helpful to think of an essay in terms of a conversation or debate with a classmate. If I were to discuss the cause of World War II and its current effect on those who lived through the tumultuous time, there would be a beginning, middle, and end to the conversation. In fact, if I were to end the argument in the middle of my second point, questions would arise concerning the current effects on those who lived through the conflict. Therefore, the argumentative essay must be complete, and logically so, leaving no doubt as to its intent or argument.

The five-paragraph essay

A common method for writing an argumentative essay is the five-paragraph approach. This is, however, by no means the only formula for writing such essays. If it sounds straightforward, that is because it is; in fact, the method consists of (a) an introductory paragraph (b) three evidentiary body paragraphs that may include discussion of opposing views and (c) a conclusion.

Longer argumentative essays

Complex issues and detailed research call for complex and detailed essays. Argumentative essays discussing a number of research sources or empirical research will most certainly be longer than five paragraphs. Authors may have to discuss the context surrounding the topic, sources of information and their credibility, as well as a number of different opinions on the issue before concluding the essay. Many of these factors will be determined by the assignment.

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How to Create a Structured Research Paper Outline | Example

Published on August 7, 2022 by Courtney Gahan . Revised on August 15, 2023.

How to Create a Structured Research Paper Outline

A research paper outline is a useful tool to aid in the writing process , providing a structure to follow with all information to be included in the paper clearly organized.

A quality outline can make writing your research paper more efficient by helping to:

  • Organize your thoughts
  • Understand the flow of information and how ideas are related
  • Ensure nothing is forgotten

A research paper outline can also give your teacher an early idea of the final product.

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Research paper outline example, how to write a research paper outline, formatting your research paper outline, language in research paper outlines.

  • Definition of measles
  • Rise in cases in recent years in places the disease was previously eliminated or had very low rates of infection
  • Figures: Number of cases per year on average, number in recent years. Relate to immunization
  • Symptoms and timeframes of disease
  • Risk of fatality, including statistics
  • How measles is spread
  • Immunization procedures in different regions
  • Different regions, focusing on the arguments from those against immunization
  • Immunization figures in affected regions
  • High number of cases in non-immunizing regions
  • Illnesses that can result from measles virus
  • Fatal cases of other illnesses after patient contracted measles
  • Summary of arguments of different groups
  • Summary of figures and relationship with recent immunization debate
  • Which side of the argument appears to be correct?

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Follow these steps to start your research paper outline:

  • Decide on the subject of the paper
  • Write down all the ideas you want to include or discuss
  • Organize related ideas into sub-groups
  • Arrange your ideas into a hierarchy: What should the reader learn first? What is most important? Which idea will help end your paper most effectively?
  • Create headings and subheadings that are effective
  • Format the outline in either alphanumeric, full-sentence or decimal format

There are three different kinds of research paper outline: alphanumeric, full-sentence and decimal outlines. The differences relate to formatting and style of writing.

  • Alphanumeric
  • Full-sentence

An alphanumeric outline is most commonly used. It uses Roman numerals, capitalized letters, arabic numerals, lowercase letters to organize the flow of information. Text is written with short notes rather than full sentences.

  • Sub-point of sub-point 1

Essentially the same as the alphanumeric outline, but with the text written in full sentences rather than short points.

  • Additional sub-point to conclude discussion of point of evidence introduced in point A

A decimal outline is similar in format to the alphanumeric outline, but with a different numbering system: 1, 1.1, 1.2, etc. Text is written as short notes rather than full sentences.

  • 1.1.1 Sub-point of first point
  • 1.1.2 Sub-point of first point
  • 1.2 Second point

To write an effective research paper outline, it is important to pay attention to language. This is especially important if it is one you will show to your teacher or be assessed on.

There are four main considerations: parallelism, coordination, subordination and division.

Parallelism: Be consistent with grammatical form

Parallel structure or parallelism is the repetition of a particular grammatical form within a sentence, or in this case, between points and sub-points. This simply means that if the first point is a verb , the sub-point should also be a verb.

Example of parallelism:

  • Include different regions, focusing on the different arguments from those against immunization

Coordination: Be aware of each point’s weight

Your chosen subheadings should hold the same significance as each other, as should all first sub-points, secondary sub-points, and so on.

Example of coordination:

  • Include immunization figures in affected regions
  • Illnesses that can result from the measles virus

Subordination: Work from general to specific

Subordination refers to the separation of general points from specific. Your main headings should be quite general, and each level of sub-point should become more specific.

Example of subordination:

Division: break information into sub-points.

Your headings should be divided into two or more subsections. There is no limit to how many subsections you can include under each heading, but keep in mind that the information will be structured into a paragraph during the writing stage, so you should not go overboard with the number of sub-points.

Ready to start writing or looking for guidance on a different step in the process? Read our step-by-step guide on how to write a research paper .

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Argumentative Essay Writing

Cathy A.

Argumentative Essay - A Complete Writing Guide

11 min read

Published on: Mar 10, 2023

Last updated on: Jan 30, 2024

argumentative essay writing

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Crafting a Winning Argumentative Essay on Social Media

Craft a Winning Argumentative Essay about Mental Health

Strategies for Writing a Winning Argumentative Essay about Technology

Crafting an Unbeatable Argumentative Essay About Gun Control

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Writing an argumentative essay is in every student’s academic life. No matter which level you are on, writing essays will be part of your life.

So learning to write good essays is essential if you want to be successful. Students who want to ace their language class often forget that their grades massive chunk depends on essay writing.

Writing about these arguments can be tricky, but one should know the art of doing so. This blog focuses on what an argumentative essay is and how it is written.

So without further ado, let’s begin!

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What is an Argumentative Essay?

An argumentative essay is a piece of writing in which your argument is the most important thing.

An argumentative essay has various other approaches, but they all share the basic idea and purpose. In this essay, a writer is asked to investigate and analyze a topic or a subject. 

Moreover, the writer chooses which side of the issue he stands on and asks for reasons and evidence for his stance.

Unlike other essay types, this essay is based on the logic and facts that a writer uses to prove his claim.

Although an argumentative essay is based on an argument, this is nothing like a verbal argument between two informal people in a really heated situation. Therefore, the presentation of the argument in this essay is different.

The primary goal of this essay is based on a point-counterpoint idea. Thus, the writer presents his argument and the counter-argument and leaves it to the audience to decide which side to support.

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Types of Arguments

Generally speaking, there are three types of arguments. These arguments are used in the formation of your argumentative essay. 

All these types of arguments can be separately used or used in combination in your essay, depending on the topic and how you present it.

Rogerian Argument Strategy

A Rogerian model is a negotiating strategy in which you identify common ideas or goals. Also, opposing arguments and views are presented objectively to reach an agreement.

Topic: Should smoking be banned in public places?

In a Rogerian argument, you would aim to find common ground between those in favor of and those against the ban on smoking in public places. 

For example:

Aristotelian Argument Strategy

According to this strategy, a writer tries to persuade their audience to a specific point of view. This argument is made on ethos, pathos, and logos.

Topic: Should school uniforms be mandatory?

Using the Aristotelian argument strategy, you would appeal to the audience's emotions, credibility, and logical reasoning. 

For instance:

Toulmin Argument Strategy

This argument strategy breaks down an argument into several parts using logic and facts. This argument style has 6 elements; backing, warrant, claim, quantifier, grounds, and rebuttal.

Topic: Should the use of plastic bags be banned?

No matter which argument type you choose, make sure to persuade the audience with powerful reasoning.

Check our expert blog on types of arguments to learn more in detail!

How to Start an Argumentative Essay?

A writer can not just jump onto the writing process of an argumentative essay. Before beginning the actual writing process, there is a whole pre-writing procedure that should be considered.

The pre-writing procedure involves drafting a plan according to which the writer will craft his essay. The following are the steps that you should take to plan out your argumentative essay:

  • Discover your topic
  • Decide on the claim
  • Pick your stance
  • Conduct research
  • Develop an argumentative essay outline

These steps will make the writing procedure easier for you. Each step is discussed in detail in the following section.

1. Discover your Topic

To begin your essay, you must have a topic or a subject to write your paper on. A good argumentative essay is based on a strong persuasive topic presented to the reader by a writer.

Choose a topic of interest or an issue that prevails widely in your society to talk and persuade people about it.

There is a criterion while selecting a topic. If your topic answers the following question vividly, then it is “The Topic”.

  • Why did that particular event happen?
  • Significance
  • Writer's reaction
  • Select a topic that you can think can be proved with logic and facts.

Check out this video to learn more about selecting a topic!

2. Decide on the Claim

After you have your topic, develop your claim. Generally, there are five types of claims that are used in the argumentative essay.

If not all, try to use some of these claims to give your essay strength.

  • Value - Is your topic valuable? Is it meaningful and worthy enough to talk about?
  • Authenticity - Is your claim a fact or not?
  • Cause and Effect - How it happened and what was the cause of the occurrence of the issue? Its effects?
  • Definition - What the particular issue is? Its interpretation, definition, and classification?
  • Policy - What are the courses of action that should take? How to tackle the specific issue?

Try to use some of these claims to give your essay strength.

3. Pick your Stance

Every coin has two sides. When you select your topic of the issue, you know there is another side to it as well. 

To write an argumentative essay, a writer needs to weigh both sides of the argument. They need to analyze which side is stronger and can be justified by logic and facts .

Unlike a persuasive essay, an argumentative essay presents the argument of an opposing side, letting the audience decide which side to choose.

4. Conduct Research

When you choose a topic for your essay, ensure the information can be easily gathered. You want maximum logic and facts to prove your point.

Opinions will not make a difference in this essay type, so it is important to present authentic and reliable information for the readers.

You can only convince the reader with your point of view that is logically sound and by providing supporting material to your thesis statement. So, first, do research and write the essay.

5. Develop an Argumentative Essay Outline

An argumentative essay follows the basic 5 paragraph outline. An outline of an argumentative essay includes:

A complete argumentative essay outline guide will help you further. After arranging all the gathered information in these sections, grab a pen to start writing your essay.

How to Write an Argumentative Essay?

Once you have a proper plan for your essay, it is time to start drafting it. Keep in mind the outline developed and start writing your argumentative essay in the following order:

1. Argumentative Essay Introduction

As the name suggests, the introductory paragraph introduces the topic or the issue that a writer selected for his audience.

In these paragraphs, a hook is written to grab the reader’s attention and motivate them to read your essay. A hook is the opening line of an essay and plays a significant role in your essay.

Another ingredient that is used to make an introduction is the background information about your topic. 

Here, provide information about the previous works concerning your topic, their findings, etc. Mention the strengths and weaknesses of the chosen topic.

The last and most important part is the thesis statement of your essay.

It is the main argument on which your entire essay is based. All the information in the content aims to prove this statement by providing evidence and facts.

2. Argumentative Essay Body Paragraphs

The body of an argumentative essay contains shreds of evidence and material that support the claim and the major thesis statement.

Each paragraph starts with a topic sentence. Then, all the information in that paragraph talks about a particular idea about the subject.

In the body paragraphs of an argumentative essay, the writer presents his arguments, supporting information that proves the argument is valid, and the counter-argument.

All of this information is provided by maintaining the transition. It helps protect the essay’s flow. Together, all the paragraphs aim and lead up to the conclusion.

3. Argumentative Essay Conclusion

In the conclusion of an argumentative essay, the writer describes the key ideas, restating the thesis statement. Also, in the concluding paragraphs, the writer put forward the courses of action and gives the final verdict.

 Argumentative Essay Examples

Below are some examples of argumentative essays presented for you by experts.

Argumentative Essay Outline

Argumentative Essay Example

Argumentative Essay Format

Follow these examples to get an idea of how a professional argumentative essay is written.

Argumentative Essay Topics

Topics for an argumentative essay can easily take from your day-to-day life. But for your ease, our experts have gathered some good essay topics so that you can write the best essays.

Following is a list of some good topics:

  • Are college degrees worth their price?
  • Does everyone need to go to college to be successful?
  • Why is Shakespeare the greatest poet of all time?
  • College students must be providing practical life knowledge as well.
  • Are SATs effective for everyone?
  • What is the importance of learning multiple languages?
  • Do violent video games affect child behavior?
  • How does social media lead to isolation?
  • How important is the censorship of online content?
  • Is fast food really the cause of obesity and other diseases in the United States?
  • Is it justified to test animals for beauty products in any way?
  • Is mercy killing justified?
  • Women can multitask better.
  • Electronic voting - What are its pros and cons?
  • Should there be an option for Youtubers to edit foul and derogatory comments?

Check our extensive blog on argumentative essay topics to get inspired. 

Writing an argumentative paper for high school can be overwhelming, but you can score best in it once you get to know the basics. 

If you still find it hard to draft your essay, you can take our expert's help at CollegeEssay.org to get your essay written professionally. We deal with all kinds of academic essays and papers and provide our clients with high-quality writing services.

Our Essay Writer AI can help you with all your argumentative essays and papers in no time.

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create an outline for an argumentative research essay

Free Argumentative Essay Generator

State the point to be discussed in your body paragraph

State a supporting point to be discussed in body paragraph

State an opposing point to be discussed in body paragraph

State a similar aspect to be discussed

State a contrasting aspect to be discussed

So, you’ve tried every possible method and technique, but your argumentative essays are still not as good as they should be. What's worse, they take a lot of time to write. Is there a way out?

Yes, there is! With the help of our revolutionary argumentative essay generator, you will boost your creativity and improve the quality of your texts. Use it 100% free of charge to write a perfect argumentative essay!

  • ️🚀 How to Use This Tool
  • ️💡 Why Use Our Generator?
  • ️✍️ What Is an Argumentative Essay?
  • ️📚 Essay Structure
  • ️🗣️ Types of Arguments
  • ️🔥 How to Write
  • ️🔗 References

🚀 How to Use Our Argumentative Essay Maker

Our tool is a must-have for all students. Essays that it makes can serve as examples to boost your inspiration. Here’s how to use it effectively:

  • Type in your topic.
  • Select how many body paragraphs with supporting arguments you want.
  • Choose the number of body paragraphs with counterarguments.
  • Customize the main body by adjusting the app’s settings (optionally.)
  • Press “Generate” and get a fantastic result.

💡 Why Use Our Argumentative Essay Generator?

Our essay maker is one of the best you can get. It's all thanks to its amazing benefits:

✍️ What Is an Argumentative Essay?

An argumentative essay is a type of writing where you research a specific subject, state your point of view, and gather evidence. Its aim is to persuade readers to side with your viewpoint.

Assignments for argumentative essays usually require substantial research of literature and previously published material. Additionally, you may need to conduct an empirical investigation . It means that you will gather information through interviews, surveys, observations, or experiments.

📚 Argumentative Essay Structure

An argumentative essay has a simple structure. It consists of 3 core parts: introduction, body, and conclusion. Let’s take a look at each of them separately.

Introduction

Your essay's introduction will consist of 3 parts:

  • Every paper begins with a captivating hook that motivates the audience to read your text thoroughly. It can be a shocking fact, a striking piece of statistics, or a humorous phrase.
  • The hook is then followed by a brief review of the topic's background .
  • Finally, a thesis statement that encapsulates the main ideas and sets the objectives for the entire essay.

An argumentative essay usually includes 3 or more body paragraphs that provide supporting or opposing arguments for the chosen topic. There, you usually list examples, evidence, statistics, studies, and citations to strengthen your position. Each paragraph starts with a short topic sentence summarizing its main argument.

A conclusion wraps up the entire assignment and links all the elements together. It aims to give a general overview of the whole essay and give it closure. A well-written conclusion appeals to the reader's emotions and effectively explains why it was essential to analyze the chosen topic in the first place.

🗣️ Types of Arguments

Good argumentation is the secret of a good essay. Even the greatest ideas will sink into the air if not supported by convincing facts. To help you with this task, we present to you 3 most popular argumentation techniques. Choose the one that suits you most!

The picture enumerates the 3 types of argumentation for an argumentative essay.

Classic (Aristotelian)

Let's start with a default framework, also known as Aristotelian . It uses reasoning in combination with logical facts. You can apply it to almost any concept except those that haven’t been researched enough. Aristotelian argumentation is perfect for narrow and straightforward topics.

It has the following structure:

  • A brief description of the topic.
  • A paragraph that explains your viewpoint.
  • A section that describes the opposing idea.
  • A presentation of proof that supports your position.

The Toulmin technique works best for unraveling complex issues that can be viewed from many angles. It has 7 primary sections that you can rearrange in any way that works best for your essay:

  • A concise statement of your viewpoint.
  • Several paragraphs that include supporting proof, such as statistics or scientific facts.
  • A paragraph that explains the relationship between your claim and evidence.
  • Additional findings to back up your assertion.
  • A review of opposing viewpoints.

Note that if you choose the Toulmin approach, your arguments should be used only to refute another claim. So, instead of researching a topic, your Toulmin essay will solely aim at disproving an opposing viewpoint.

The Rogerian technique is somewhere between Aristotelian and Toulmin. If you use it, you accept the legitimacy of both your and the opposition's stance. It's the least aggressive and most courteous approach, which aids in persuading skeptical readers.

It is structured in five steps as follows:

  • A description of the topic.
  • A paragraph about your opponent’s ideas.
  • A section about your viewpoint.
  • A proposition of compromise that allows both points of view to coexist.
  • A conclusion.

🔥 How to Write an Argumentative Essay

Writing an argumentative essay may initially seem complicated, but knowing the specifics makes it much easier. Here you’ll find a small step-by-step guide that will help you ace your task.

The picture talks about the benefits of making a plan of your essay before writing it.

1. Answer the Question from the Topic

An argumentative essay requires you to present a clear opinion. To do it, you can ask yourself a major topic-oriented question. Then, develop your thesis statement as a response to that question. For instance, your question may be, "What is the best drink?" Then your thesis will say: the best drink is pineapple juice.

This technique simplifies the writing process because you’ve chosen a position from the start and won’t have to formulate your opinion later in the main body.

2. State Why the Opposing Argument Is Wrong

To effectively defeat opposing viewpoints , try stating your objections right away. For example, "Some people believe that apple juice is the best, but not everyone supports this opinion. Compared to apple's sour taste, pineapple juice offers a much more balanced flavor that combines sweet and sour." This approach works well since it backs up your point of view with proof and doesn’t allow your opponent to win.

3. Outline Your Main Points

It’s vital to support each claim you make with facts. To do it, make sure to find enough adequate evidence that can serve as key assertions. It’s best if you select the strongest of them and write them down in an outline. To strengthen your claims even further, don't hesitate to make a list of references and citations from different sources.

4. Write a Draft

It's now time to start writing the first draft of your argumentative essay. All you have to do at this stage is to collect all the parts of your outline together. Ensure a logical flow between paragraphs, and use transitional words to connect your ideas.

Additionally, you may use our argumentative essay generator to create a perfect draft that can serve as a basis for your essay. You can then edit and improve it as you see fit.

5. Edit and Proofread

After the draft is complete, you can start polishing and proofreading it. This time, try to locate and resolve all the grammatical and logical mistakes . Look for areas of your essay that can be clarified or arguments that lack persuasiveness.

Finally, when you feel like your essay is perfect, you can call it a day. Until then, try not to hurry and be sure to revise everything carefully.

As you can see, there is nothing impossible about writing an argumentative essay, especially if you have great AI helpers like our free generator. Try it now and see how the quality of your papers goes through the roof!

We also recommend trying out our business tools such as SOAR analysis matrix and STP template .

❓ Argumentative Essay Generator FAQ

❓ what are the 5 parts of an argumentative essay.

The 5 parts of an argumentative essay include an introduction with a hook, background information on your chosen topic, a thesis statement, body paragraphs with an argument for or against your point of view, and a conclusion.

❓ What is the purpose of an argumentative essay?

A compelling argumentative essay aims to state a specific point of view regarding the chosen topic. To do it, you can use different arguments, evidence, and other proof. Aside from that, an argumentative essay also aims to disprove the opposing viewpoint.

❓ How to start the prewriting process for an argumentative essay?

The first step in prewriting the argumentative essay is to research and gather evidence and facts to support your thesis. Also, sometimes you might have to do empirical research. It means gathering information through interviews, surveys, observations, or experiments.

❓ In an argumentative essay, what tone should the author use?

The tone of an argumentative essay should be persuasive and authoritative. Persuasiveness means that you convince the reader that your position is correct and the opposing view is wrong. An authoritative tone will further demonstrate your expertise. Try to strike a balance in tone, and you'll succeed.

🔗 References

  • Argumentative Essay/Commentary: The University of Toledo
  • How to Write a Good Argumentative Essay: Easy Step-by-Step Guide: Masterclass
  • How to Write a Standout Argumentative Essay: Grammarly
  • Suggestions for Developing Argumentative Essays: University of California Berkeley
  • Tips for Organizing an Argumentative Essay: Valparaiso University

Home — Essay Samples — Social Issues — Abortion — Argumentative Essay Outline On Abortion

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Argumentative Essay Outline on Abortion

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Introduction, thesis statement, paragraph 1: the right to bodily autonomy, paragraph 2: the health and safety of women, paragraph 3: reproductive freedom and economic justice.

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Persuasive Essay Guide

Persuasive Essay About Gun Control

Caleb S.

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Persuasive Essay About Gun Control

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Are you looking for inspiration for your persuasive essay about gun control? You are at the right place!

Gun control is a controversial but common topic for students. But with so many arguments on both sides, students often find it challenging.

However, reading some sample essays can be a good start! 

This blog provides several example essays on the topic of gun control that you can read for inspiration. Moreover, you'll get tips to help you craft your own persuasive essay about the topic.

So let’s get started!

Arrow Down

  • 1. Persuasive Essay Examples on Gun Control 
  • 2. Persuasive Essay Against Gun Control
  • 3. Persuasive Essay on Pro-Gun Control
  • 4. Argumentative Essay About Gun Control
  • 5. Steps to Write a Persuasive Essay
  • 6. Persuasive Essay Topics about Gun Control

Persuasive Essay Examples on Gun Control 

Start with these general persuasive essay samples on gun control. They will help you understand what makes a good gun control essay.

Check out these examples:

Persuasive Essay about Gun Control

Persuasive Essay Examples Gun Control

Want persuasive examples on other topics? Check out our persuasive essay examples blog to find samples on a variety of topics.

Persuasive Essay Against Gun Control

Check out these few examples of anti-gun control essays. These will help you understand the arguments of those who are against gun control.

Why Gun Control is Bad

Argumentative Essay Against Gun Control

Check out this short video below on the pros and cons of gun control to find good arguments for both sides.

Persuasive Essay on Pro-Gun Control

Some people believe that stricter gun control laws should be a priority to prevent gun violence. Here are some examples that will introduce you to their arguments in detail.

Why We Need Gun Control Essay

The Pros of Gun Control Essay

Free Persuasive Essay on Gun Control

Argumentative Essay About Gun Control

An argumentative essay about gun control is a paper that looks at both sides of the debate on this important issue. The goal is to make sure that you can support your position with facts, figures, and logical arguments.

Read these argumentative essay examples about gun control to see how it's done!

Steps to Write a Persuasive Essay

Now that you have read some good examples of persuasive essays about gun control, it's time for you to start writing your own paper.

But how exactly do you write a good essay by yourself? Here are some steps you should follow:

Step 1- Research the Topic

Before you start writing your essay, it’s important to do some research on gun control.

Read up on the different arguments and viewpoints on the issue to get a better understanding of what you are discussing. Gather as many facts and evidence as you need.

Make sure to take notes, so you can cite anything you use later.

Step 2- Make an Outline

Having a persuasive essay outline will help you stay organized and on track.

Start by making an outline of the main points you want to discuss in your essay. Then, break it down into subsections with specific facts and arguments.

In short, make sure to create a clear structure for your essay.

Step 3- Take a Stance

After doing your research, decide which side of the debate you agree with. Choose one side of the debate. Decide if you're going to argue for or against gun control. Make sure to choose an opinion that you can defend with logical arguments. Moreover, stay consistent throughout your paper about your stance.

Step 4- Support Your Arguments

When making your arguments, make sure to back them up with evidence. Use data, statistics, and quotes from experts to strengthen your points. In addition, you should use rhetorical strategies such as ethos, pathos, and logos to make your essay more effective.

Step 5- Address the Opposition  

Make sure to address any counterarguments that you come across while researching or writing your essay. This will show your readers that you have done your research and considered both sides of the argument.

Step  6- Proofread and Revise

Before submitting your paper, make sure to proofread for any mistakes or typos. Having a second pair of eyes look over your work can help catch any errors that you may have missed.

Take your time to revise and edit your essay. Make sure that each point is clearly laid out and supported with facts, figures, and logic. This is important to make sure that the essay is compelling and error-free!

Persuasive Essay Topics about Gun Control

Wondering which gun topic you should write about? Here are a few persuasive essay topics related to gun control that you can choose.

  • The Impact of Stricter Gun Control Laws on Reducing Gun Violence
  • The Role of Background Checks in Preventing Firearms Access for Criminals
  • Mental Health and Gun Control: Addressing the Connection
  • Gun Control vs. Second Amendment Rights: Finding a Balance
  • The Necessity of Banning Assault Weapons for Public Safety
  • Why Gun Control Won’t End School Shootings
  • The Influence of Lobbying Groups like the NRA on Gun Control Policies
  • The International Perspective: Comparing Gun Control Measures in Different Countries
  • How Can Gun Control Help Suicide Prevention
  • The Economics of Gun Control: Analyzing the Costs and Benefits of Stricter Regulations

Want persuasive topics on other subjects? Check out our list of 200+ engaging and interesting persuasive essay topics to get topic ideas.

To sum it up for you,

Gun control is an important issue that needs to be discussed in our society. The example essays in this blog have helped to show different arguments for and against gun control. In addition, you got some useful steps on how to write a persuasive essay about this topic.

Whether you are for or against gun control, make sure to conduct thorough research and use evidence when writing your paper.

So keep these steps in mind and start writing your own gun control essay today!

If you need further help with your essay on gun control, don't worry! 

Our write my essay service can provide you with a high-quality, expertly-written custom papers. We have experienced and professional writers who know what it takes to write a powerful persuasive piece!

So, hire our persuasive essay writing service now!

Caleb S.

Caleb S. has been providing writing services for over five years and has a Masters degree from Oxford University. He is an expert in his craft and takes great pride in helping students achieve their academic goals. Caleb is a dedicated professional who always puts his clients first.

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Persuasive Essay Topics

Learn How to Create a Persuasive Essay Outline

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How to Write a Persuasive Essay About Covid19 | Examples & Tips

Persuasive Essay About Covid19

Crafting a Convincing Persuasive Essay About Abortion

Persuasive Essay About Abortion

Learn to Write Persuasive Essay About Business With Examples and Tips

Persuasive Essay About Business

Check Out 12 Persuasive Essay About Online Education Examples

Persuasive Essay About Online Education

Persuasive Essay About Smoking - Making a Powerful Argument with Examples

Persuasive essay about smoking

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  1. 10+ Argumentative Essay Outline Templates

    create an outline for an argumentative research essay

  2. Sample Research Argumentative Essay

    create an outline for an argumentative research essay

  3. 37 Outstanding Essay Outline Templates (Argumentative, Narrative

    create an outline for an argumentative research essay

  4. 10+ Argumentative Essay Outline Templates

    create an outline for an argumentative research essay

  5. Sample Argument Outline

    create an outline for an argumentative research essay

  6. 8+ Argumentative Essay Examples

    create an outline for an argumentative research essay

VIDEO

  1. 5 Tips for Writing an Argumentative Research Essay

  2. Argumentative essay writing

  3. Argumentative Essay Research A

  4. Argumentative Research Tutorial

  5. Argumentative Essay outline

  6. Argumentative Essay Research, Fall 2023

COMMENTS

  1. Structure & Outline

    When writing an argumentative research essay, create an outline to structure the research you find as well as help with the writing process. The outline of an argumentative essay should include an introduction with thesis statement, 3 main body paragraphs with supporting evidence and opposing viewpoints with evidence to disprove, along with an ...

  2. Argumentative Essay: Guide on How to Write

    How to create an argumentative essay outline. Knowing how to write an outline is just half the battle. Because an argumentative essay outline requires extra structure and organization, it often requires more extensive planning than the standard essay outline. After all, the goal is to present the best argument for your topic, so you need to ...

  3. Argumentative Essay Outline

    The most common structure to craft an argumentative essay is as follows: 1. Argumentative Essay Introduction. The introductory paragraph introduces the main argument and provides a brief background of the argumentative essay topic you chose. Essay introductions act as a roadmap for the entire essay.

  4. How to Write an Essay Outline

    Revised on July 23, 2023. An essay outline is a way of planning the structure of your essay before you start writing. It involves writing quick summary sentences or phrases for every point you will cover in each paragraph, giving you a picture of how your argument will unfold. You'll sometimes be asked to submit an essay outline as a separate ...

  5. How to Write an Argumentative Essay

    Make a claim. Provide the grounds (evidence) for the claim. Explain the warrant (how the grounds support the claim) Discuss possible rebuttals to the claim, identifying the limits of the argument and showing that you have considered alternative perspectives. The Toulmin model is a common approach in academic essays.

  6. How to Write an Argumentative Essay

    Here's a step-by-step guide on how to write an argumentative essay: 1. Introduction. Begin with a compelling sentence or question to grab the reader's attention. Provide context for the issue, including relevant facts, statistics, or historical background.

  7. Argumentative Essay Outline: Guidelines, Tips, & Examples

    The outline for an argumentative essay is similar to other types of essays. These include informative essays, persuasive essays, compare and contrast essays, etc. The outline for almost all types of essays includes an introduction, three body paragraphs, and a conclusion. To start writing an impactful argumentative essay, you need a topic broad ...

  8. How to write an effective outline for an argumentative essay

    How to write an outline for an argumentative essay. 1. Identify the topic. The initial step in crafting a compelling outline for your argumentative essay is to carefully choose your topic. Your choice of topic should be precise and engaging, setting the stage for the reader's expectations.

  9. How to Create a Powerful Argumentative Essay Outline

    Argumentative Essay Outline Section 2: Key Arguments. In the sample outline above, there are three claims, each backed by three points of evidence. Offering three claims is just a suggestion. You may find that you have more claims to make. (Keep in mind that your assignment may already dictate how many claims are required for your specific ...

  10. How to Write a Good Argumentative Essay: Easy Step-by-Step Guide

    1. Introductory paragraph. The first paragraph of your essay should outline the topic, provide background information necessary to understand your argument, outline the evidence you will present and states your thesis. 2. The thesis statement. This is part of your first paragraph.

  11. How to Create a Powerful Argumentative Essay Outline: Step-by-Step Guide

    Step 1: Understand the Basics of an Argumentative Essay. The first step in developing an argumentative essay is to choose a topic. You need to find a topic that is not only interesting to you but also has enough information and arguments available to support your point of view. Once you have chosen a topic, you can move on to creating an outline.

  12. How to Create an Outline for an Argumentative Paper: 7 Steps

    As you generate new ideas and make new logical connections, the scope of your paper will likely change and as a result so should your thesis. 2. Brainstorm. List anything that you believe is related to the argument, including quotes from primary and secondary sources. 3.

  13. Argumentative Essay

    Step 5: Utilize the research to determine a thesis statement that identifies the topic, position, and support(s). ... Argumentative essay outline How to write an argumentative essay. Regardless of the writer's topic or point of view, an argumentative essay should include an introductory paragraph, body paragraphs, a conclusion, and works ...

  14. How to Write an Argumentative Essay (Examples Included)

    Developing an argument requires a significant understanding of the subject matter from all angles. Let's take a look at the steps to writing an argumentative essay: 1. Choose appropriate argumentative essay topics. Although topics for an argumentative essay are highly diverse, they are based on a controversial stance.

  15. How to Write an Argumentative Research Paper (with Pictures)

    X Research source. Clustering Write a brief explanation (phrase or short sentence) of the subject of your argumentative essay on the center of a piece of paper and circle it. Then draw three or more lines extending from the circle. Write a corresponding idea at the end of each of these lines.

  16. Argumentative Essay Outline: Step-By-Step Writing Guide

    An argumentative essay outline is a roadmap for the writer to organize their thoughts, research, and arguments in a clear and logical way. It helps to stay focused on the topic and effectively present arguments. Creating an outline before writing an argumentative essay allows students to identify the key points and evidence that should back up ideas.

  17. Argumentative Essays

    The argumentative essay is commonly assigned as a capstone or final project in first year writing or advanced composition courses and involves lengthy, detailed research. Expository essays involve less research and are shorter in length. Expository essays are often used for in-class writing exercises or tests, such as the GED or GRE.

  18. How to Create a Structured Research Paper Outline

    How to write a research paper outline. Follow these steps to start your research paper outline: Decide on the subject of the paper. Write down all the ideas you want to include or discuss. Organize related ideas into sub-groups.

  19. 10+ Argumentative Essay Outline Templates & Formats

    These sections individually state the topic, arguments, evidence and supporting statements, etc. The significant parts of an argumentative essay outline are: Introduction. Body Paragraphs. Conclusion. Creating each section systematically is a fundamental requirement of an outline.

  20. Step By Step Guide To Write An Argumentative Essay

    1. Discover your Topic. To begin your essay, you must have a topic or a subject to write your paper on. A good argumentative essay is based on a strong persuasive topic presented to the reader by a writer. Choose a topic of interest or an issue that prevails widely in your society to talk and persuade people about it.

  21. Persuasive Essay Outline

    Make a closing statement. Tie your closing statement back to your opening hook. Outline Persuasive Essay. Directions: Use the outline form below to organize your persuasive essay. Choose your topic and three arguments to support your opinion. Section I is for your introduction. Section II is for the body (one paragraph for each argument).

  22. PDF Strategies for Essay Writing

    When you write strong, clear paragraphs, you are guiding your readers through your argument by showing them how your points fit together to support your thesis. The number of paragraphs in your essay should be determined by the number of steps you need to take to build your argument. To write strong paragraphs, try to focus each

  23. Free AI Outline Generator

    Ahrefs' Outline Generator can be immensely helpful for students, researchers, and academics who need to organize their thoughts and create a well-structured outline for their academic papers. By inputting key points or subtopics, the tool can generate an outline that follows a logical progression and ensures coherence in the paper's structure.

  24. Free Argumentative Essay Generator: Create Perfect Drafts with Our

    🔥 How to Write an Argumentative Essay. Writing an argumentative essay may initially seem complicated, but knowing the specifics makes it much easier. Here you'll find a small step-by-step guide that will help you ace your task. 1. Answer the Question from the Topic. An argumentative essay requires you to present a clear opinion.

  25. Argumentative Essay Outline on Abortion

    Abortion is a highly controversial and divisive topic that has been the subject of much debate and discussion for many years. It is a complex issue that involves ethical, moral, and legal considerations, and it is one that elicits strong emotions and opinions from people on both sides of the debate.

  26. Persuasive Essay About Gun Control

    An argumentative essay about gun control is a paper that looks at both sides of the debate on this important issue. The goal is to make sure that you can support your position with facts, figures, and logical arguments. Read these argumentative essay examples about gun control to see how it's done! Steps to Write a Persuasive Essay