An argumentative essay is a type of writing that presents a clear and concise argument or claim, along with supporting evidence, in order to persuade the reader to adopt a particular point of view or take a specific action. It is a common assignment in high school and college, and it is often used in academic and professional settings as well.
The main purpose of an argumentative essay is to convince the reader to accept the writer's position on a particular issue or topic. To do this, the writer must present a well-reasoned argument supported by evidence and examples. This requires the writer to do thorough research on the topic, gather and evaluate relevant evidence, and present the argument in a logical and coherent manner.
An argumentative essay typically begins with an introduction that presents the topic and provides some background information. The introduction should also include a clear and concise thesis statement that presents the writer's main argument or claim. The body of the essay should then present the supporting evidence and examples, along with any counterarguments that the writer wishes to address. Finally, the conclusion should summarize the main points of the essay and restate the thesis in a way that reinforces the writer's argument.
One of the key elements of a successful argumentative essay is the use of reliable and credible sources to support the writer's claims. This means that the writer should use sources such as academic journals, books, and credible news outlets, rather than relying on unreliable sources such as personal blogs or social media posts.
In addition to presenting a strong argument, it is also important for the writer to consider the audience for the essay and to anticipate any potential counterarguments. This can help the writer to address any potential objections or concerns that the reader may have, and to present a more persuasive and convincing argument.
Overall, an argumentative essay is a powerful tool for presenting a clear and well-supported argument to persuade the reader to accept a particular point of view or take a specific action. Whether it is in an academic setting or a professional one, the ability to write an effective argumentative essay is an important skill to have.