How to write an argumentative essay

An argumentative text is one prepared with the purpose of convincing or persuading the reader about the relevance of the idea contained in the writing. For this, it is always necessary to explain a series of practical and/or theoretical foundations with respect to the subject matter. Therefore, the issuer should preferably have solid and verifiable knowledge in the matter discussed.

All argumentative text needs a clear and easy to understand point for the receiver of the message. Additionally, this type of writing must show a particular position or perspective through well-founded comments (for or against). For example: an editorial, an opinion article, a denial, an explanation of reasons, a critical essay, among others.

Steps to write an argumentative essay

Establish a posture

The goal of any argumentative text is to explain why a fact, idea or decision is or should be one way and not another. However, it is advisable to build a reasoning free of ideologies, biases or prejudices, although, at the same time, it must reflect a position. That point of view is not necessarily singular, it can be two or more positions around a theme or conflict.

Make a proposal and justify it

Generally, In the first paragraph of the argumentative text, a proposal is presented with the aim of explaining what the selected topic is and why.. Then, it is necessary to present a justification for said proposition where the neuralgic reasons for the analysis are defended.

This is important because the most convincing arguments convey objectivity to the reader along with the clear expression of one or more points of view. Such a balance between the issuer's opinion and conceptual fidelity is achieved through the inclusion of so-called argumentative resources.

Most common argumentative resources

• Verbatim quotes from recognized authors (arguments from authority);
• Accurate descriptions;
• Exemplifications (arguments of analogies) and mentions of indexed publications (press, scientific articles, laws)…;
• Paraphrase;
• Abstractions;
• Generalizations, enumerations and visual schemes.

Pose the possible results of different scenarios

A good argumentative text includes deliberations capable of reflecting different future scenarios. In other words, the core of the article must go beyond validating the position of the issuer to the detriment of other point(s) of view. Otherwise, the writing becomes bland; therefore, it does not serve to convince and much less change the reader's opinion.

In accordance, It is advisable to accompany the justification with a description of the different results —less convenient— from other perspectives. For this, it is very opportune to become familiar with the handling of the different types of arguments (including the aforementioned arguments of authority and arguments of analogies). They are specified below:

• deductive arguments: An assumption leads to a known or specific resolution.
• Inductive arguments: the premise is based on an experience and leads to a generalized conclusion.
• abductive arguments: it is a conjecture that must be explained or reformulated.
• Logic reasoning: contains accurate propositions that lead to an irrefutable conclusion.
• Probability arguments: are supported by statistical data.
• affective arguments: is a speech that appeals to the emotions of the reader.

Decision

The end of the argument must include a concise closure (without leaving loose ends) of the issue or conflict raised. In complement, the last paragraph can include an invitation to expand the analysis. Thus, the reader receives a complete panorama —the author's position, quotes from specialists and different future scenarios— that allows him to form his own opinion.

Structure of an argumentative text

Introduction

Includes an explanation of the author's point of view, the context of the issue or problem addressed together with the central idea defended in the text (initial thesis).

Body of the argument

Understand the development of the idea, the data, the quotes from people with authority on the subject, the possible results of other positions and the contrast with the author's approach.

Conclusion

Covers the final argument with the synthesis of the key points of the subject treated and the recommendations for the future (if applicable). As can be seen, it maintains the same structure of an essay.

Importance of argumentation

This is a very useful social science skill when communicating and defending a point of view. Consequently, Perfecting this skill helps people deal positively with their insecurities while developing analytical skills. For this reason, the argument constitutes the basis of the debate.

In the professional scope, argumentation and debate are essential skills for any successful negotiator. In this way, the person has the possibility of obtaining the most convenient deal for him (or for the company he represents). Likewise, these communication skills facilitate the implementation of group work strategies, as well as the exchange of ideas.

Consensus in public dialogue

It is impossible to conceive of a public dialogue devoid of argumentation and respect for others framed in the use of appropriate language. Without those norms, the discussion becomes cacophonous, irrational and unsustainable. Not in vain, the civilized exchange of opinions is essential in any society to understand and solve common problems.

Of course, in any public space—in political debates, for example—counterarguments can be heated. In the same way, more experienced speakers often use irony as a resource in order to undermine the position of their opponents. Additionally, the participants of a debate must reach a prior consensus on the rules of the discussion.

From argumentative text to debate

The debate by definition deals with a controversial and relevant topic, in this way, a natural interest arises whose logical derivation is the confrontation of ideas. Then, Obviously, the members of the dispute must prepare in advance to defend their point of view. That is, review the issue to be discussed, know your opponent and practice your speeches.

It should be noted that the structure of the debates —introduction, initial exposition, discussion and conclusion— is quite similar to that previously exposed in the argumentative text. For this reason, The most sensible recommendation for any participant in a debate is, precisely, to write an argumentative text. In addition, it is necessary to consider the functions of the moderator:

• Introduce the topic;
• Grant the turn of intervention of the participants;
• Monitor the time of interventions;
• Ensure the use of respectful language;
• Ensure that the debaters focus on the agreed topic.

Famous argumentative texts (speeches)

• I have a dream (I have a dream), Martin Luther King Jr.
• Evita's (María Eva Duarte de Perón) speech on Labor Day in the Plaza de Mayo (May 1, 1952).