Do you know how to start an argumentative essay? No matter how strong your argument is, it cannot convince your reader if it does not contain all the essential elements and is appropriately structured. So, if you are planning to write an argumentative essay, continue reading.
In this article, I have covered the following points about argumentative essays:
- Understanding Argumentative Essay
- How to Start an Argumentative Essay?
- Outlining an Argumentative Essay
- Writing a Types of Argument Claims
- Three Types of Arguments to Use
- Want to Learn More About Essay Writing
You will be able to write a compelling piece that will give a clear point of view about a topic to your readers. Before you know how to write an argumentative essay, it’s essential to understand what it is and how it is different from other types of essays.
Understanding Argumentative Essay
The intention behind an argumentative essay is to convince the reader of a particular point of view on a topic. The writer provides enough reasoning, background information, and evidence to support the stance. Many students have a misconception that an argumentative essay is the same as an analytical essay, but they are not.
Argumentative essays are typically active in academic settings. Teachers and professors assign this type of essay to the students to test their writing skills and thinking ability. An argumentative essay is generally written on topics including science, politics, technology, and healthcare.
How To Start An Argumentative Essay?
Even if you have never written and don’t know how to start an argumentative essay, here, you will learn the step-by-step process.
Research Debatable Topic
A debatable topic has been selected. Before the commencement of your composition, the topic should be:
- Controversial: For that purpose, opposing viewpoints must be incited.
- Current: The topic to be covered must be present and significant.
- Well-researched: That implies there should be a whole pile of credible information on the subject.
- Clear-cut and Relevant: Avoid dealing with overly broad subjects; they will only weaken your argument.
Some examples of good argumentative issues are:
- Should social media platforms censor free speech?
- Does climate change the greatest threat to mankind?
- Should everybody get a free college education?
- Is artificial intelligence a threat to human jobs?
- Should capital punishment be abolished?
Research Thoroughly
After zeroing in on a topic, credibly gather sources to buttress your argument. The more factual evidence you have, the stronger your essay becomes. Sources should include:
- Authors of academic journals and books – This type of scholarly research adds to oneList’s credence;
- Authoritative news sources – These will include newspapers and reputable online magazines;
- Government and educational websites provide certified and statistical data;
- Expert opinions and interviews – Real quotes from experts in the field add a lot of strength to your argument.
Develop a Strong Thesis Statement
The Next Step is Drafting a Thesis Statement. It is the backbone of the essay. In drafting a thesis statement, you should consider:
- Clearly showing where you stand on the issue;
- Be straight and incisive, and
- Be an illustration of the argument.
- Weak Thesis:
“Social media affects people’s lives.” (Sorry, it’s too vague, and there is no clear stance.)
- Strong Thesis:
“Social media companies should be legally liable for the monitoring of harmful content, as this can cause an array of problems, from misinformation and cyberbullying to mental health issues.”
Writing a Compelling Hook
Begin your essay with an arresting sentence to grab your reader’s attention. A good hook creates intrigue and ensures reader engagement. Some of the common hooks include:
- Trading in Shocking Stats: “Over 70 percent of teenagers have been victimized by cyberbullying at least once.”
- Proposing a Question: “Should companies have the ability to control what we say online?”
- Presenting an Important Quote: “‘Freedom of speech is not freedom of reach’ – a quote that propounds today’s growing debate on social media censorship.”
- Anecdote: A short, relevant personal story.
Provide Background Information
Next, to contextualize the topic for your reader, define various significant terms, present historical background, or bring in relevant statistics that will help the reader better understand the issue.
For instance:
“With the rise of social media, the incessant debates on free speech and content moderation have, therefore, found relevance. Facebook and Twitter nowadays find themselves grappling between ensuring users’ freedom and ethical responsibility. On the one hand, those in favor of content regulation claim that censorship violates free speech, while on the other hand, such regulation is their view as essential in combating damaging misinformation.”
Outline the Main Arguments
Next, you should give a brief introduction of the main points to be discussed in the body paragraphs, telling the reader what to expect in your essay.
For example:
“This paper discusses the ethics regarding online content regulation and the dangers of misinformation and how it could affect the right to free speech.”
Make Connections to Transition Smoothly into the Body Paragraphs
End the introduction with a connecting sentence that will lead into the first argument, maintaining logic and ensuring that your reader smoothly transitions into the discussion issues.
For example:
“Given that the importance of social media as a source of information has burgeoned, regulation of content in a responsible way becomes more paramount.”
Common Mistakes to Avoid in the Introduction
- Being too vague: Avoid generalizations that lack specificity.
- Not stating a clear position: Your thesis must state your position clearly.
- Too much information: Introductions should be brief and interesting.
- Weak hooks: A boring or generic beginning will lose your reader.
| 💡 Tips for Starting an Argumentative Essay: 👉 Keep an Objective and Logical – No use of emotional language but keeping everything factually based. 👉 Keep it simple – Do not skip the introduction with very much detail. 👉 Catch the Reader’s Interest – Have persuasive words and relevant examples. 👉 Proof Back Evidence with Credible – Use well-researched sources to back your statements. 👉 Revising and Editing – Always check and proofread your introduction to make it clear and clear. |
Types Of Argument Claims
Once you are ready with your central point of view, you need to choose a particular type of claim for presenting your opinion. Generally, you can present your arguments in the following four ways:
- Fact: In this type of claim, you present an idea, whether it’s true or false.
- Definition: If you disagree with the dictionary definition of a particular concept or idea and you want to present your own interpretation.
- Value: You are arguing because you want to convince your readers why it’s important.
- Policy: Why should the reader read your essay, and what should they do after reading it?
Approaches For Writing An Argumentative Essay
Since you are not sure how to start an argumentative essay, you can use the three ways to structure your essay.
Classical Approach
In the classical approach, you just state your opinion and provide supporting details to refute your argument. It’s an effective way to convince your readers when they don’t have valid points to opposing your argument.
Rogerian Approach
In the Rogerian approach, you are stating a problem and convincing the reader that your opinion is the most beneficial by acknowledging the opposing argument.
Toulmin Approach
In this type of approach, you claim that your opinion is the best and support your claim with background information, reasoning, and factual evidence.
Want To Learn More About Essay Writing?
I hope the above information has helped you to learn how to start an argumentative essay. If you have never written before, you may not be able to write a convincing essay in the first attempt. However, you can surely develop your skills with practice. Lastly, please share what topic on which you want to write an argumentative essay.
Read Also –
- How to Write an Analysis Essay: A Step by Step Guide
- How to Start an Informative Essay: A Complete Guide
- Things To Consider For Writing A Great Essay
