DEFINITION

An argumentative essay is an essay that debates or argues a particular point made within
the topic of a given paper. It is one of the easiest types of papers and essays to write as long
as you cite scholarly sources to back your argument up.

CHARACTERISTICS
An argumentative essay attempts to be highly persuasive and logical. It usually assumes
that the reader disagrees with the writer, but it should be noted that the reader is no less
intelligent than the writer. Hence an argumentative essay should be written objectively,
logically and respectfully.
When planning an argumentative essay, be aware that the essay should contain the
following characteristics:
The argumentative essay introduces and explains the issue or case. The reader needs to
know what the issue is going to be.
The essay offers reasons, and supports these reasons. The essay should prove its point.
The essay, at times, refutes (proves wrong) opposing arguments.

1. Introduction
The first paragraph is the introductory paragraph. It introduces the problem and gives the
background information necessary for the argument and the thesis statement.

2. Body
The body paragraphs contain the reasons. Each paragraph talks about one reason. The
reason is stated in the topic sentence and is supported by supporting details or materials.
These supporting materials can be either examples, statistics, personal experiences, or
quotations.

3. Conclusion
The conclusion restates the main claim and presents one or two general statements which
accurately summarize the arguments which support the main premise.