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  • How to Write an Argumentative Essay: A Step-By-Step Guide
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  • James Prior
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  • Updated November 9, 2024

Learn how to write an argumentative essay. Follow our guide to craft strong arguments, support your views with evidence, and persuade your readers.

Argumentative

Writing an argumentative essay allows you to present your opinion on a subject and support it with reasoned arguments and evidence. In this guide, we’ll walk you through each step of the process, helping you develop a well-structured, persuasive argumentative essay.

Table of Contents

What Is an Argumentative Essay?

An argumentative essay is a type of writing where you take a position on a specific issue or topic and use evidence and reasoning to convince the reader of your viewpoint. It requires presenting well-structured arguments and addressing opposing views to strengthen your position.

The goal is not only to inform but also to persuade the reader to agree with your viewpoint or see things from your perspective by supporting your claims with reliable facts, examples, and logical reasoning. This kind of essay encourages critical thinking, clear expression, and careful research to make a compelling case.

Types of Argumentative Essays

There are a few main types of argumentative essays. Knowing which one suits your topic best can make your argument stronger.

1. Classical Argument

A classical argumentative essay follows a traditional structure, grounded in the principles of classical rhetoric. It aims to persuade readers through logical reasoning, evidence, and well-organized arguments, presenting a clear stance on a topic.

  • Structure : Introduction, narration (background), confirmation (arguments), refutation, and conclusion.
  • Purpose : Present straightforward arguments to persuade the reader.

The classical structure is effective because it organizes arguments logically, guiding the reader through your reasoning process. It also strengthens your credibility by demonstrating consideration of alternative views and showing respect for the reader’s own critical thinking.

2. Rogerian Argument

A Rogerian argumentative essay takes a collaborative approach to argumentation, focusing on finding common ground rather than winning over the other side.

Developed from the ideas of psychologist Carl Rogers, this essay style emphasizes empathy and understanding between opposing viewpoints.

In a Rogerian essay, you begin by acknowledging the strengths of the opposing perspective, demonstrating respect for differing opinions. Then, you carefully present your position, showing how both viewpoints might coexist or complement each other.

  • Structure : Introduction, exploration of opposing views, your position, and finding common ground.
  • Purpose : Acknowledge opposing views and promote compromise, making it ideal for contentious issues.

This approach aims to reduce conflict, fostering compromise or mutual understanding between writer and reader.

3. Toulmin Argument

A Toulmin argumentative essay is a structured approach to presenting an argument, developed by philosopher Stephen Toulmin. It breaks down an argument into specific components to build a logical and persuasive case.

  • Structure : Claim (thesis), grounds (evidence), warrant (connection between claim and evidence), backing, rebuttal, and qualifier.
  • Purpose : Break down complex arguments into smaller parts, ideal for nuanced topics with strong counterarguments.

The Toulmin model helps you create a clear, rational argument that considers opposing perspectives while firmly supporting your position.

How to Write an Argumentative Essay

Here’s a step-by-step guide to help you craft a persuasive and well-structured argumentative essay. Follow these steps to present your position effectively, build strong evidence, and guide readers through a logical, compelling argument.

1. Understand the Purpose of an Argumentative Essay

An argumentative essay is not just about sharing opinions. The goal is to present a claim, support it with evidence, and persuade readers to see your perspective. Unlike opinion pieces, argumentative essays rely on credible evidence and a clear structure to present both sides of the issue while defending your viewpoint.

Why It’s Important

The argumentative essay sharpens your analytical skills. You’ll learn to evaluate sources, structure information logically, and write persuasively—essential skills in both academics and real-world scenarios.

Key Characteristics

  • A Clear Thesis : Summarizes your position on the topic, often in a single sentence.
  • Evidence-Based Support : Relies on facts, statistics, and expert opinions rather than assumptions or emotions.
  • Counterargument Acknowledgment : Strengthens your position by showing awareness of opposing views.

2. Choose a Strong, Debatable Topic

A strong topic is essential to any argumentative essay. Choose one that you’re passionate about and that has room for debate. Avoid broad topics; instead, focus on a specific aspect to make your essay manageable.

Tips for Choosing a Topic

  • Interest and Knowledge : A topic you’re curious about will make the writing process more engaging.
  • Relevance : Current events and trending issues can make your essay feel timely and relevant.
  • Debatability : Ensure there’s a legitimate argument on both sides of the issue.

Example Topics

Here are a few examples of suitable topics:

  • Should college education be free for all?
  • Do social media platforms encourage unhealthy behaviors?
  • Are standardized tests an effective measure of student success?

These topics are relevant, open to debate, and narrow enough to explore in a single essay.

3. Conduct Thorough Research

Effective research is the foundation of a convincing argumentative essay. Gather information from reliable sources to support your points, and examine opposing views for a well-rounded perspective.

Research Tips

  • Focus on Credible Sources : Use academic journals, government publications, and reputable news sources. Avoid biased sources.
  • Document Key Points : Take notes on quotes, statistics, and insights that support your argument, as well as details from opposing viewpoints.
  • Consider Counterarguments : Knowing opposing views helps you address and refute them convincingly.

Helpful Research Tools

  • Google Scholar for academic articles.
  • JSTOR and PubMed for peer-reviewed sources.
  • Library Databases for credible research.

Exploring counterarguments in-depth helps solidify your understanding of the topic and prepares you to address challenges to your position.

4. Develop a Strong Thesis Statement

Your thesis statement is the backbone of your essay, clearly presenting your argument in a single, concise sentence. It should convey your stance and hint at the structure of your essay.

Crafting Your Thesis

A strong thesis is specific, arguable, and evidence-backed. Avoid vague language or overly general statements.

Examples of Thesis Statements

  • Weak Thesis : “Pollution is bad for the environment.”
  • Strong Thesis : “Stricter emission regulations for factories are necessary to reduce pollution and protect public health.”

The strong thesis provides a clear position and can be supported with evidence, whereas the weak thesis is too broad.

Here are a few more examples of effective thesis statements:

Effective Thesis Statements

  • Direct Stance : “Animal testing should be banned because it is inhumane and unnecessary in modern medicine.”
  • Complex Claim : “Although some argue that free healthcare may burden taxpayers, it ensures a healthier, more productive society.”
  • Cause and Effect : “The rise in global temperatures directly results from increased carbon emissions, which must be regulated.”

5. Outline Your Essay Structure

An outline is a roadmap for your essay. It helps you organize your thoughts, keep your argument logical, and maintain a clear flow. Here’s a standard structure for an argumentative essay:

  • Introduction : Hook, background, and thesis statement.
  • Body Paragraphs : Each paragraph presents one supporting point, backed by evidence.
  • Counterargument : Acknowledge the opposing view and refute it.
  • Conclusion : Restate your thesis and summarize your main points.

Sample Outline

  • Hook : Start with an interesting fact or question.
  • Background : Brief overview of the topic.
  • Thesis Statement : Your main claim in a single sentence.
  • Each begins with a topic sentence.
  • Evidence follows to support each point.
  • Explanation clarifies how the evidence supports the thesis.
  • Presents a common opposing view.
  • Refutes it with evidence.
  • Restates the thesis and reinforces the main argument.
  • Leaves readers with a final thought or question.

An outline ensures that each point logically builds upon the previous one, creating a cohesive and convincing argument.

6. Write a Captivating Introduction

Your introduction should grab the reader’s attention and set the stage for your argument. Begin with a hook — a surprising fact, a compelling question, or a brief anecdote related to your topic.

Example Introduction

For an essay about social media’s impact, try this: “Is social media connecting us more deeply, or pushing us further apart? As platforms like Facebook and Instagram continue to grow, concerns about their effect on mental health have intensified. This essay will argue that social media negatively impacts well-being and relationships, urging users to approach it with caution.”

This introduction establishes interest, provides background, and presents a clear thesis.

7. Develop Clear, Evidence-Backed Body Paragraphs

Each body paragraph should center around a single supporting point. Start with a topic sentence, add evidence, and follow with an explanation. Use data, examples, and quotes from credible sources to make your argument more persuasive.

Structure of a Body Paragraph

  • Topic Sentence : States the paragraph’s main idea.
  • Evidence : Facts, statistics, or quotes supporting the point.
  • Explanation : Explains how the evidence backs up your thesis.
  • Transition : Lead smoothly into the next paragraph.

Example Structure

  • Topic Sentence : “Renewable energy helps reduce greenhouse gas emissions.”
  • Evidence : “Research shows that solar energy reduces emissions by up to 80% compared to fossil fuels (Green Energy Journal, 2022).”
  • Explanation : “By reducing emissions, renewable energy sources help slow climate change and improve public health.”

Repeat this structure for each body paragraph.

Using specific evidence like statistics, expert quotes, and research studies strengthens your points and makes your argument more credible. It also enhances credibility and makes your argument more persuasive.

8. Address Counterarguments

Acknowledging counterarguments demonstrates that you’ve considered multiple perspectives and strengthens your position. Present the opposing view in a fair, respectful way, then refute it with evidence to reinforce your stance.

How to Address Counterarguments

  • Introduce the Counterargument : Explain the opposing viewpoint fairly and objectively.
  • Refute It : Use evidence to counter the argument.
  • Explain Your Perspective : Reinforce your own position and show why it’s stronger.
  • Counterargument : “Some argue that renewable energy is too costly for widespread adoption.”
  • Refutation : “However, the long-term benefits outweigh the initial costs.”
  • Reinforcement : “Investing in renewable energy is a practical step towards a sustainable future.”

Showing awareness of other views can enhance your essay’s persuasiveness by demonstrating a well-rounded argument.

9. Write a Persuasive Conclusion

Your conclusion should restate your thesis and summarize your main points without introducing new information. A strong conclusion leaves a lasting impression, so consider ending with a thought-provoking question, call to action, or compelling fact.

  • Restate the Thesis : Reinforce your main argument without simply copying your thesis.
  • Summarize Key Points : Briefly recap the main arguments from your body paragraphs.
  • Closing Statement : Leave the reader with something to think about.

Example Conclusion

“Switching to renewable energy sources is essential for a sustainable future. Not only do these sources reduce pollution, but they also offer economic benefits that fossil fuels cannot match. By embracing renewable energy, we’re investing in a healthier, more prosperous world.”

A memorable conclusion reinforces your argument and encourages readers to reflect further.

10. Revise and Edit Your Essay

Revising is essential to ensure clarity and polish. Take time to read through your essay, check for logical flow, and correct grammar errors. Edit with a focus on strengthening arguments, improving clarity, and eliminating redundancy.

Editing Tips

  • Read Aloud : Hearing your essay helps you spot awkward phrases and transitions.
  • Use Editing Tools : Grammar checkers like Grammarly can help, but remember to review suggested edits critically.
  • Take Breaks : Reviewing your work after a break can help you see it with fresh eyes.

Strong editing is the final touch that can make a good essay great.

11. Avoid Common Mistakes

Avoiding common pitfalls makes your essay clearer and more convincing. Certain mistakes can weaken your argument. Here are some to avoid:

  • Overreliance on Emotion : Use evidence rather than emotional appeals.
  • Ignoring Counterarguments : Failing to address other views weakens your argument.
  • Weak Thesis : A vague thesis can make your essay less convincing.
  • Overloading with Information : Stick to the strongest arguments and avoid excessive details.
  • Failing to Edit : Ensure your essay is free from grammar and punctuation errors.

Additional Tips for Avoiding Mistakes

  • Stay objective. Avoid language that could come across as biased or overly personal.
  • Cite your sources. Proper citations build credibility and avoid plagiarism.
  • Check transitions. Smooth transitions between paragraphs improve readability and flow.

12. Final Tips for Writing a Strong Argumentative Essay

Following these tips will help make your argumentative essay convincing and well-written.

A. Stay Focused and Concise

Avoid rambling. Keep each sentence relevant to your argument. Clear and direct language strengthens your essay.

B. Use a Formal Tone

An argumentative essay should be professional. Avoid slang or overly casual language. Use formal, clear, and concise language.

C. Use Transition Words

Transitions improve flow and guide readers through your essay. Words like “however,” “therefore,” and “for example” help make connections between ideas.

D. Edit and Proofread

Editing improves clarity and eliminates errors. Check for grammar, punctuation, and spelling mistakes. Reading aloud can help you catch awkward phrasing.

E. Cite Your Sources

Cite sources properly to avoid plagiarism. Use a consistent citation style, like APA, MLA, or Chicago. This adds credibility and allows readers to verify your information.

F. Practice and Seek Feedback

Practicing improves your writing skills. Ask others to review your essay and give constructive feedback.

13. Checklist Before Submitting Your Essay

Before submitting, review this checklist:

  • Does your essay have a clear thesis?
  • Are your claims supported by evidence?
  • Did you address counterarguments?
  • Is each paragraph focused on a single point?
  • Did you proofread for errors?

Argumentative Essay vs Persuasive Essay

An argumentative essay and a persuasive essay may appear similar because they both aim to convince the reader, but they differ in approach, tone, and structure. Here’s a breakdown to help you understand the differences:

Purpose and Approach

  • Argumentative Essay : The primary goal is to present a well-reasoned argument based on evidence. You explore both sides of an issue, showing balanced consideration before firmly supporting one side with facts, research, and logical reasoning.
  • Persuasive Essay : The focus is on persuading the reader to adopt your perspective. It’s more emotionally driven, often relying on personal opinions, emotional appeals, and less formal evidence.

Tone and Style

  • Argumentative Essay : This essay maintains an objective tone. It’s more formal and analytical, prioritizing facts over feelings. You aim to logically sway readers, which can make the tone neutral or detached.
  • Persuasive Essay : This essay often uses a personal, conversational tone. Persuasive writing may appeal to emotions and values to connect with readers and convince them to agree with you.

Evidence and Support

  • Argumentative Essay : You rely on factual evidence, such as statistics, studies, and expert opinions. Your argument builds on objective, verifiable sources.
  • Persuasive Essay : While evidence can be included, the emphasis is more on personal beliefs and appeals to the reader’s emotions. Persuasive essays may include anecdotes or subjective opinions.

Structure and Balance

  • Argumentative Essay : You present both sides of the issue, giving fair attention to each perspective. Addressing counterarguments is a key component, which helps you strengthen your stance.
  • Persuasive Essay : You focus mainly on your side of the argument, often dismissing or downplaying opposing views to emphasize your perspective.
  • Argumentative Essay Topic : “Should social media platforms regulate fake news?” You would provide evidence for both sides before concluding with your own stance.
  • Persuasive Essay Topic : “Why everyone should adopt a pet from a shelter” Here, you would aim to convince readers of the emotional and moral benefits of adopting animals.

When to Use Each

  • Use an argumentative essay when discussing academic, scientific, or societal issues where balanced analysis is essential.
  • Use a persuasive essay when writing for marketing, opinion columns, or when aiming to inspire action through a personal appeal.

In summary, both types aim to convince, but argumentative essays rely on logic and evidence, while persuasive essays focus more on personal conviction and emotional appeal.

Writing an argumentative essay develops valuable skills in research, critical thinking, and persuasive writing.

By understanding what an argumentative essay is and by following the steps in this article, you can create a structured, well-supported argument that leaves a lasting impression on readers.

Start with a strong topic, support your position with evidence, and address counterarguments thoughtfully. With practice, you’ll master the art of argumentative writing and become a persuasive communicator.

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IELTS Writing Task 2: Opinion Essays Explained

Haniya Yashfeen

Updated On Oct 22, 2024

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Struggling with IELTS Writing Task 2 opinion essays? This guide breaks down the structure, key tips, and common mistakes, helping you write confidently and score higher!

IELTS Writing Task 2: Opinion Essays Explained

Table of Contents

What is an ielts writing task 2 opinion essay, structure of an ielts opinion essay, tips for writing a high-scoring ielts opinion essay, common mistakes to avoid for ielts opinion essay.

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If you're preparing for IELTS Writing Task 2, you'll likely encounter the opinion essay . This essay type requires you to present a clear viewpoint on a specific topic, supporting your stance with relevant examples and reasons. Understanding the structure and strategies for opinion essays is crucial for achieving a higher IELTS band score .

IELTS opinion essays ask you to agree or disagree with a specific idea. You’ll choose one side to support and develop your argument. You have 40 minutes to write at least 250 words on the given topic. In the IELTS Writing Task 2 , an opinion essay asks you to state your opinion on a given topic. You’ll be required to answer a question that usually begins with phrases like:

  • "Do you agree or disagree?"
  • "To what extent do you agree or disagree?"

This essay type tests your ability to articulate and defend your opinion, so clear, logical thinking is essential.

The structure of an opinion essay in IELTS Writing Task 2 should be clear and easy to follow. A well-organized essay is essential for achieving a high band score. The recommended structure is as follows:

A well-organized opinion essay typically follows this structure:

1. Introduction

  • Introducing the topic.
  • Clearly state your opinion (agree/disagree or partially agree).

For Example Topic: Some people believe that using public transport is the best way to reduce traffic congestion. Do you agree or disagree?

2. Body Paragraph 1

  • Present your first reason supporting your opinion.
  • Provide examples or evidence to back up your point.

3. Body Paragraph 2

  • Discuss your second reason or argument.
  • Again, support it with relevant examples.

4. Conclusion

  • Restate your opinion in different words.
  • Summarize the main points of your argument.

Struggling to Crack the IELTS opinion essays? Our 8+ band trainers have got you! Sign up for a FREE demo now!

  • State Your Opinion Clearly: Avoid ambiguity in your introduction. Your stance must be clear from the start.
  • Use Cohesive Devices: Words like "Firstly," "On the other hand," and "In conclusion" can help your essay flow smoothly.
  • Support Your Points: Always back up your opinion with relevant examples. These can be personal, global, or based on common knowledge.
  • Maintain a Formal Tone: Since IELTS is an academic test, use formal language and avoid slang or overly casual phrases.
  • Not Giving a Clear Opinion: Some test-takers fail to state their opinion clearly in the introduction and conclusion, leading to confusion.
  • Weak Examples: Vague or irrelevant examples weaken your argument. Make sure your examples are specific and relatable to the topic.
  • Word Count Issues: Stay within the 250-word minimum, but don't go overboard. Keep your writing concise and to the point.

IELTS Opinion Essay Sample

Writing an effective opinion essay in IELTS Writing Task 2 is crucial for achieving a high band score. By understanding the structure, expressing a clear opinion, and using logical arguments supported by examples, you can greatly improve your chances of success. Practice writing essays on a variety of topics and follow the tips outlined in this guide to enhance your writing skills. With consistent practice and careful attention to detail, you’ll be well-prepared to tackle the opinion essay with confidence.

Looking for opinion essay topics & questions for 2024? Check them in our IELTS online classes & sharpen your writing skills!

Here are the 5 Examples for the Opinion Essay Topics IELTS:

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Home  / Blog  / Improve your Writing  / How to Write an Opinion Based Essay

Opinion Based Essays | Exam preparation | UCT English Language Centre

How to Write an Opinion Based Essay

Teacher Shannon , who is currently doing her Phd in education at UCT, is running the UCT English Language Centre Cambridge Advanced Certificate ( CAE ) exam preparation course. In the CAE course , students focus on preparing for the exam and teachers introduce and teach a number of strategies and tips for optimally completing all parts of the exam. One such strategy that is trained in class is the writing of an opinion based essay.

An opinion essay is a formal piece of writing which requires your opinion on a topic. Your opinion should be stated clearly. Throughout the essay you will give various arguments/reasons/viewpoints on the topic and these will be supported by evidence and/or examples. You could also include an opposing viewpoint in a paragraph.

When writing your title ask yourself: Do you agree or disagree with your topic? Then write that statement as the title of your essay. (Example title: Poaching should be banned internationally.)

2. Introduction

-‘Hook’: The first paragraph of an essay is the introduction and needs to include a ‘hook’ which is writing that grabs the reader’s attention. A ‘hook’ can include data or a statistic.

-Thesis statement: The introduction also includes the thesis statement. A thesis statement is the major statement or claim or opinion of your essay.  

3. Argument/Reason

In an opinion based essay you will make several arguments that will defend your thesis statement. For every argument/reason you need to provide evidence. You could have several arguments or reasons

4. Supporting evidence

Every argument/reason must be supported by evidence which can be in the form of additional research, quoting an academic/paper, data and graphics. What is important here is that the research and data are accurate and actually defend you reason.

*There can be several argument/reason paragraphs followed by several supporting paragraphs. You could also mention an opposing viewpoint in one of these paragraphs.

5. Conclusion

The conclusion of any essay sums up the thoughts and ideas that were written throughout the essay. In an opinion based essay conclusion, the thesis statement is usually rewritten in the writer’s own words to highlight his/her agreement or disagreement with the topic. A conclusion is a powerful way to end an essay and should leave the reader (Example: To sum up, poaching kills thousands of animals annually resulting in many species on the endangered species list. Conservation of these animals is expensive and time-consuming. I believe it is therefore undeniable that there should be a ban on international poaching.)

!!! Remember:

-use connectors and linking words throughout

-keep your style formal (no abbreviations, slang or informal phrases)

-write in a logical sequence that is easy to follow

-if you are writing your essay by hand, write neatly and legibly

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how to write a do you agree essay

Purdue Online Writing Lab Purdue OWL® College of Liberal Arts

Essay Writing

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Welcome to the Purdue OWL

This page is brought to you by the OWL at Purdue University. When printing this page, you must include the entire legal notice.

Copyright ©1995-2018 by The Writing Lab & The OWL at Purdue and Purdue University. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, reproduced, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed without permission. Use of this site constitutes acceptance of our terms and conditions of fair use.

This resource begins with a general description of essay writing and moves to a discussion of common essay genres students may encounter across the curriculum. The four genres of essays (description, narration, exposition, and argumentation) are common paper assignments you may encounter in your writing classes. Although these genres, also known as the modes of discourse, have been criticized by some composition scholars, the Purdue OWL recognizes the wide spread use of these genres and students’ need to understand and produce these types of essays. We hope these resources will help.

The essay is a commonly assigned form of writing that every student will encounter while in academia. Therefore, it is wise for the student to become capable and comfortable with this type of writing early on in her training.

Essays can be a rewarding and challenging type of writing and are often assigned either to be done in class, which requires previous planning and practice (and a bit of creativity) on the part of the student, or as homework, which likewise demands a certain amount of preparation. Many poorly crafted essays have been produced on account of a lack of preparation and confidence. However, students can avoid the discomfort often associated with essay writing by understanding some common genres.

Before delving into its various genres, let’s begin with a basic definition of the essay.

What is an essay?

Though the word essay has come to be understood as a type of writing in Modern English, its origins provide us with some useful insights. The word comes into the English language through the French influence on Middle English; tracing it back further, we find that the French form of the word comes from the Latin verb exigere , which means "to examine, test, or (literally) to drive out." Through the excavation of this ancient word, we are able to unearth the essence of the academic essay: to encourage students to test or examine their ideas concerning a particular topic.

Essays are shorter pieces of writing that often require the student to hone a number of skills such as close reading, analysis, comparison and contrast, persuasion, conciseness, clarity, and exposition. As is evidenced by this list of attributes, there is much to be gained by the student who strives to succeed at essay writing.

The purpose of an essay is to encourage students to develop ideas and concepts in their writing with the direction of little more than their own thoughts (it may be helpful to view the essay as the converse of a research paper). Therefore, essays are (by nature) concise and require clarity in purpose and direction. This means that there is no room for the student’s thoughts to wander or stray from his or her purpose; the writing must be deliberate and interesting.

This handout should help students become familiar and comfortable with the process of essay composition through the introduction of some common essay genres.

This handout includes a brief introduction to the following genres of essay writing:

  • Expository essays
  • Descriptive essays
  • Narrative essays
  • Argumentative (Persuasive) essays
  • Tips for Reading an Assignment Prompt
  • Asking Analytical Questions
  • Introductions
  • What Do Introductions Across the Disciplines Have in Common?
  • Anatomy of a Body Paragraph
  • Transitions
  • Tips for Organizing Your Essay
  • Counterargument
  • Conclusions
  • Strategies for Essay Writing: Downloadable PDFs
  • Brief Guides to Writing in the Disciplines

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Picture this: you’re in a debate with friends, trying to convince them that pineapple belongs on pizza. That’s the essence of a persuasive essay—only, instead of chatting with friends, you’re writing to convince your readers that your viewpoint is valid. A persuasive essay is a type of writing where your goal is to take a stand on an issue and persuade your audience to see things from your perspective. To do this, you’ll use a mix of reasoning, evidence, and sometimes even a touch of emotion to get your point across.

Now, there are a few types of persuasive essays you might deal with. You could be writing an argumentative essay , where you’re asked to pick a side and back up your claims with facts and logical reasoning. Or, it could be an opinion essay , where the main point is to express your personal view on a subject and persuade your reader through your passion and understanding of the topic. Lastly, there’s the problem-solution essay , which requires you to highlight a problem and convince the reader that your proposed resolution is the best way to overcome it.

Why does this matter? Well, knowing how to build a persuasive argument will be useful not just in writing. Take a politics class, for example. You might find yourself arguing whether a government policy works or not. Or, in psychology, you could be making a case for whether nature or nurture plays a bigger role in human development. These skills aren’t limited to academics either—being persuasive is something you’ll use in your career, social life, and beyond.

types of persuasive essays: argumentative, opinion, problem-solving

Special Characteristics of a Persuasive Essay

So, what makes a persuasive essay different from any other type of paper? The main characteristic of such writing is that it’s designed to convince. Your job is to get your reader on board with your viewpoint using clear reasoning, evidence, and a well-structured argument. Here are a few things that make this type of paper stand out:

  • Clear stance

You’re not sitting on the fence here. A persuasive essay requires you to clearly state your position on the topic from the get-go.

  • Strong evidence

Facts, data, examples—you’ll need these to back up your argument and show that your viewpoint has a right and a place to exist.

  • Engaging argument

Persuasion doesn’t mean just throwing facts at your reader. You’ll need to present your argument in a way that makes the audience think and even challenge their own views.

  • Understanding the audience

Knowing who you’re writing for plays a key role, as you must tailor your argument to their beliefs, interests, and level of knowledge.

At the end of the day, the main objective of a well-written persuasive essay is to ignite thought, encourage debate, and ultimately persuade your reader to see things from your point of view. 

Tips for Creating a Persuasive Essay Outline

Let’s assume you’ve brainstormed your ideas, but now comes the tricky part: how do you organize everything into a logical flow? Creating an outline is a lifesaver when you feel overwhelmed, as it gives a skeleton for your future essay. So, let’s break down how such a draft might look in the case of persuasive essay writing.

Usual Structure of a Persuasive Essay

  • Introduction This is where you grab the reader’s attention and introduce your topic. You should also clearly state your thesis— the main argument or position you’ll be defending throughout your essay. Make it concise and to the point, but strong enough to set the stage for the arguments to come.
  • Clearly introduce the point you’re about to make.
  • Expand on why this point matters about your argument.
  • Support your claim with facts, quotes, statistics, or examples that strengthen your case.
  • Tie everything back to your main argument to keep your essay cohesive.
  • Conclusion Here, you’ll summarize the key points you’ve made in the body paragraphs and restate your thesis, but in a fresh way that leaves a lasting impact. The conclusion should reinforce why your argument matters and encourage the reader to consider your perspective.

persuasive essay structure: introduction, body, conclusion

Helpful Recommendations for Outlining

Start with the thesis Before diving into your outline, make sure you’ve got a clear thesis. Your thesis will act as the anchor for your entire essay, so make it strong and direct.

Prioritize your strongest points In the body of your essay, lead with your strongest argument. This immediately shows the reader you’ve got solid reasoning. After that, you can present other supporting points in order of strength.

Use evidence wisely While it’s important to give facts and data, make sure the evidence you’re using directly backs up your argument. If it doesn’t clearly support your point, leave it out.

Be clear and concise Your outline doesn’t need to be overly detailed—it’s just a guide for how your essay will flow. Keep each section short, but make sure every point is clear enough that you’ll know exactly where to go when you start writing.

Stay flexible Remember, your outline is a tool, not a strict set of rules. If you feel like adjusting something as you’re writing, that’s okay! Outlines are there to guide you, not box you in.

Writing Recommendations for Creating a Strong Persuasive Paper

All of this may seem like a lot but with the right approach, you won’t even notice how you will get to proofreading a fully-written paper. Here are some recommendations to help you create a strong persuasive paper without unnecessary stress and hassles.

  • Take a Clear Position

Your thesis statement should clearly state your position on the topic. Don’t leave your reader guessing where you stand—be direct and assertive. The rest of your essay will revolve around proving why your viewpoint is valid, so make sure your thesis is focused and to the point.

  • Research, Research, Research

A strong persuasive essay is backed by solid evidence. Make sure you’ve done your homework and gathered credible information to support your argument. This could be statistics, expert opinions, studies, or real-life examples. The more well-researched your essay is, the harder it will be for readers to argue against you.

  • Address Counterarguments

No argument is complete without acknowledging the other side. By addressing potential counterarguments, you show that you’ve thought critically about the topic. Don’t just dismiss opposing viewpoints—explain why your argument is stronger than them. This strengthens your essay and shows your readers that you’ve considered all angles (hinting at the fact that you are unbiased in your opinion).

  • Use Persuasive Language

Your word choice can have a big impact on how convincing your essay is. Use persuasive language that appeals to logic, emotions, and ethics. For example, words like “because,” “therefore,” and “thus” help connect your reasoning. At the same time, appealing to your reader’s emotions (without overdoing it) can make your argument more relatable.

  • Stay Organized and On-Topic

One of the biggest mistakes in persuasive writing is going off-topic. Make sure each paragraph has a clear purpose and directly supports your thesis. Your essay should have a logical flow—start with your strongest point, and build on it as you go. Keep things focused, and avoid straying into irrelevant details.

  • Conclude with Impact

Your conclusion is your final opportunity to leave a lasting impression. Reinforce your main points without simply repeating them, and rephrase your thesis to show how your argument has been proven. End with a strong closing statement that encourages the reader to think further about your viewpoint, or even take action.

  • Revise and Edit

Even the best essays can benefit from a second look. After you finish writing, take a break and come back to it with fresh eyes. Look for areas where you can tighten your argument, fix grammar mistakes, or clarify your points. Editing is an important part of creating a strong persuasive essay, so don’t rush through it!

How do you start a persuasive essay?

Starting a persuasive essay begins with captivating your reader’s attention. You want your first sentence to be engaging, something that will make your audience think or surprisingly say “Oh is it actually like that?”. After that, introduce your topic and clearly state your opinion or main argument (this is called your thesis statement). Make sure your introduction sets the stage for what you’ll be arguing throughout the essay.

What are the 5 parts of a persuasive essay?

A persuasive essay generally includes five key components. First, you begin with the introduction , where you introduce your topic and your main argument. Then comes the thesis statement , which is your clear stance on the subject. Following that, you’ll have body paragraphs , where each paragraph presents a piece of evidence or a reason supporting your thesis. A good persuasive essay also includes a counterargument , which addresses an opposing viewpoint and explains why it’s not as strong as your argument. Finally, the essay concludes with a summary of your main points , reinforcing why your argument is solid.

What are the 5 tips for persuasive essays?

The 5 main tips that you can follow to make your persuasive essay stronger are the following:

  • Know Your Audience – Understand who you’re writing for and what might convince them.
  • Use Strong Evidence – Back up your argument with facts, examples, or statistics.
  • Stay Focused – Stick to one main idea per paragraph, and don’t go off-topic.
  • Be Clear and Concise – Make sure your points are easy to understand.
  • Anticipate Counterarguments – Address opposing views and explain why your argument is better.

What is the format of a persuasive essay?

The format of a persuasive essay is quite simple. You begin with an introduction that presents your topic and main argument. The body paragraphs follow, where each paragraph supports your argument with specific reasons or evidence. A good persuasive essay also addresses counterarguments, acknowledging other viewpoints and explaining why your position is stronger. Lastly, the conclusion finalizes your essay, reinforcing your main points and leaving your reader with a clear understanding of the stated argument.

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How to Write an Argumentative Essay- Steps with Examples

Being a student and writing essays is not something everybody enjoys, but in my personal opinion as a writer, anyone can find contentment and pleasure in writing, especially when it comes to argumentative essays. While they may seem tricky to navigate, they offer this unique opportunity to express your opinions and make your voice heard. Consider this a growing process—once you overcome the challenges of writing argumentative essays, you will learn the art of agreeing or disagreeing with popular opinions and defending your stance. As far as the essay is concerned, I will show you how to master this process on how to write an argumentative essay.

When is an Argumentative Essay Written?

You will likely be required to write argumentative essays throughout your academic life, from high school to university. These assignments will present opportunities to develop and showcase your critical thinking and persuasive writing skills. Here are some scenarios where you might encounter the need to write argumentative essays:

Academic Assignments

Often assigned in school or college courses to help students develop critical thinking and persuasive writing skills. These assignments encourage students to research thoroughly, form coherent arguments, and present their viewpoints convincingly.

Debates and Discussions

Serve as the basis for presenting and defending viewpoints in academic or competitive settings. Argumentative essays provide a structured way to organize thoughts and evidence, helping participants articulate their arguments effectively during debates.

Opinion Pieces

Commonly used in newspapers, magazines, and online publications to influence public opinion on current issues. These essays allow writers to present their stance on controversial topics, backed by evidence and reasoning, to sway readers' views.

Policy Proposals

Utilized in government and policy-related fields to propose and defend specific policy changes or solutions to societal problems. Argumentative essays in this context present well-researched arguments to persuade policymakers and stakeholders of the necessity and viability of the proposed changes.

Persuasive Speeches

Prepared as a foundation for delivering persuasive speeches. Writing an argumentative essay helps speakers organize their thoughts and evidence logically, providing a solid framework for their oral presentations.

What is the Structure of an Argumentative Essay?

An argumentative essay uses factual evidence and logical support to convince the reader of a particular point of view. Here's a breakdown of the structure and what goes into each part of an argumentative essay:

Basic Argumentative Essay Structure

1.Introduction

Purpose: Introduce the topic, present the thesis, and set up the argument.

Hook: A sentence to grab the reader’s attention.

Background Information: Brief context about the topic.

Thesis Statement: The main argument or claim.

2.Body Paragraphs

Purpose: Present arguments and evidence to support the thesis and refute opposing arguments.

Topic Sentence: Introduces the main idea of the paragraph.

Evidence and Analysis: Present facts, statistics, quotes, or examples to support the argument.

Counterarguments and Rebuttals: Address opposing views and explain why they are invalid or less significant.

3.Conclusion

Purpose: Summarize the arguments, restate the thesis in light of the evidence presented, and offer final thoughts.

Restate Thesis: Reiterate the main argument.

Summarize Key Points: Highlight the main points made in the body paragraphs.

Final Thought: A closing statement that underscores the importance of the topic

How to Write an Argumentative Essay [4 Steps with Examples]

As an experienced writer, I've come to understand the structure of argumentative essays quite well. But what I found truly challenging when I first started was nailing the right approach. Many beginners, myself included at one point, fall into traps like letting personal biases creep in or thinking that being argumentative means being aggressive. Trust me, that's not the case at all!

In this section, I'm going to lay out an effective approach on how to write an argumentative essay step by step for beginners. I'll break it down in a way that I wish someone had done for me when I was starting out. Plus, I'll share some insider tips on tools like WPS Office that I've come to rely on to streamline my writing process. So let's learn how to write an argumentative essay with a few examples.

1.Brainstorming

When I sit down to craft an argumentative essay, my first step is to engage in a comprehensive brainstorming session. This is your opportunity to let your creativity run wild and explore every angle of your topic. Write down every idea that comes to you, whether it supports or opposes your topic. Remember, at this stage, there are no bad ideas.

Now, while there's nothing wrong with the classic pen and paper approach, I've found that using WPS Office takes my brainstorming to a whole new level. It's not just about having a digital notepad; the AI features often toss out ideas that I might never have thought of on my own. It's like having a creative partner who never gets tired! Let me show you how I use it:

Let's say our topic is "Are Electric Cars Better for the Environment?"

Step 1: Open WPS Office and type "@AI" on a blank document to activate WPS AI.

Step 2: Click on the "Brainstorm" option and enter your prompt. Make sure it's detailed and clearly explains what you want. Here's an example of an effective prompt:

"Generate a list of arguments both for and against the idea that electric cars are better for the environment. Consider factors like emissions, manufacturing processes, battery disposal, and energy sources"

Step 3: WPS AI will generate several arguments on both sides. If you want more, simply click "Rewrite”.

Jot down any valuable arguments before hitting "Rewrite", as you might not see the same ones again.

With these arguments in hand, you'll likely find yourself leaning towards one side of the debate. Armed with a variety of points and counterpoints, you'll be well-equipped to write an effective argumentative essay. Remember, a strong argumentative essay is built on a foundation of thorough preparation and diverse ideas.

2.Preparing

Now that we've generated our initial arguments and counterarguments, it's time to dive deeper into research to strengthen our position. Let's continue with our example topic: "Are Electric Cars Better for the Environment?"

Let's continue with our example topic: "Are Electric Cars Better for the Environment?" Our next step is to select the most impactful supporting arguments and conduct in-depth research to substantiate them with solid evidence. Simultaneously, we'll identify the strongest counterarguments and explore ways to address or neutralize them through our research.

All of this might seem a little overwhelming, but with the help of WPS AI, the research phase becomes significantly more manageable. As we gather research papers, we can upload them to WPS Office and quickly gain insights using the AI features.

Here's how to leverage WPS AI for efficient research:

Step 1: Open your research paper PDFs in WPS Office, then click on the WPS AI widget in the top right corner.

Step 2: In the WPS AI panel that appears on the right side of your screen, click "Upload" to add your PDF.

Step 3: Once processed, WPS AI will provide you with key insights from the PDF at a glance.

Step 4: For more specific information, click on the "Inquiry" tab and use the WPS AI chatbot to ask further questions about the PDF contents.

As you conduct your research, begin organizing your findings into an outline. Remember to structure your outline according to the elements we discussed in previous sections. This will ensure your outline contains all the necessary components for an effective argumentative essay.

3.First Drafting

Now that we have our research and outline ready, it's time to start writing our first draft. This is where your essay really starts to take shape. Don't worry about perfection at this stage—the goal is to get your ideas down coherently.

Using the outline we prepared during our research, you'll find it easier to organize your thoughts for your essay. To make things simpler, use WPS Office editing tools. When I write my essay, I always ensure it is properly formatted, giving it a cleaner look and helping me focus better.

Now, simply start your draft on WPS Office with an introduction, followed by a body paragraph, and conclude with a strong summary that reviews your main points and leaves the reader with something to think about.

Once you have your draft ready, make use of WPS Office's AI features, which can help you improve writing, shorten or elongate your paragraphs, and much more. Let's say you've written your first body paragraph, and it's a bit too long. So, let's shorten it with WPS AI:

Step 1: Select the paragraph you want to shorten, then click on the WPS AI icon in the hover menu.

Step 2: From the list of options, simply click on "Make shorter" to shorten your paragraph.

Step 3: WPS AI will display the shorter version on a small screen. Click on "Replace" to replace the original text with the shorter version.

4.Revising & Proofreading

Congratulations on completing your first draft! However, there is one crucial step remaining: revising and proofreading.  Revising and proofreading are where good essays become great essays.

A method I find most effective for revising my essay is reading it aloud. This technique helps in identifying awkward phrasing and run-on sentences that may go unnoticed when reading silently. As you read, ask yourself:

Does my introduction effectively grab the reader's attention and clearly state my thesis?

Do my body paragraphs each focus on a single main idea that supports my thesis?

Have I provided enough evidence to support each of my arguments?

Have I addressed potential counterarguments?

Does my conclusion effectively summarize my main points and leave a lasting impression?

You might find that you need to make some structural changes. For instance, you might realize that your second body paragraph would be more effective if it came first. Don't be afraid to move things around!

Once you have made the necessary changes to your essay, the next step is to ensure it does not have any grammatical errors. For this, I use WPS AI's spell check feature. With just a single click, WPS AI spell check ensures that my essay is complete and ready to be submitted!

Bonus Tips: How to Polish your argumentative Essay with WPS AI

WPS Office is already a premium choice among students, offering all the features needed to write a perfect essay. With WPS Office, students can write better without payment issues, annoying ads, or difficulty navigating the tools. It's a free tool with advanced features, including WPS AI, which supports the entire writing process.

1.Check for Grammar and Spelling:

WPS AI carefully scans your essay for grammatical errors and spelling mistakes, ensuring that your writing is polished and professional. This feature not only helps you avoid common errors but also enhances the readability and credibility of your work.

2.Seek Style and Tone Adjustments:

WPS AI offers suggestions to improve the style and tone of your writing, making it more engaging and suitable for your target audience. Whether your essay requires a formal academic tone or a more conversational approach, WPS AI tailors its recommendations to fit your needs, ensuring your writing is coherent and compelling.

Here's an example of WPS AI's 'Improve Writing' feature in action, enhancing the formality and persuasiveness of my body paragraph for the reader.

3.Writing Assistance:

From the initial brainstorming phase to the final touches, WPS AI provides comprehensive writing assistance. It helps you structure your arguments logically, develop clear and concise thesis statements, and refine your conclusions. WPS AI also offers suggestions for enhancing clarity and coherence, making the writing process smoother and more efficient.

With the assistance of WPS AI's 'Continue Writing' feature, we can extend our essays by seamlessly incorporating additional sections that complement the existing content's flow and tone.

FAQs about Writing an Argumentative Essay

1. what’s the difference between an expository essay and an argumentative essay.

An argumentative essay is typically more extensive and requires independent research to establish a unique claim regarding a specific topic. It includes a thesis statement that presents a debatable assertion, which must be supported by objective evidence. In contrast, an expository essay strives for objectivity but does not propose an original argument. Instead, it aims to clarify and explain a topic straightforwardly, such as a process or concept. Generally, expository essays are shorter and do not rely as heavily on research.

2. When do I need to cite sources?

In a college environment, accurately citing sources is vital for essays, research papers, and other academic assignments, but this requirement does not extend to exams or in-class tasks. Proper citations are needed for direct quotes, paraphrased material, and summaries, and it is necessary to provide complete source information in a bibliography or reference list. Following the specified citation style, such as APA or MLA, is essential for maintaining academic integrity. Whenever you utilize information or ideas from another work in college-level writing, proper citation is required to acknowledge the original source.

3. What is an Argumentative essay?

An argumentative essay is a type of writing that asserts a specific stance on a debatable issue, backing it up with reasoning and evidence. The main objective is to convince the reader to accept or seriously consider the author's viewpoint. This essay usually contains a clear thesis statement and develops arguments while addressing opposing views to reinforce its position. Ultimately, it seeks to encourage critical engagement with the topic at hand.

Excel the Art of Persuasion With WPS Office

Argumentative essays are possibly the most thought-provoking when it comes to writing, presenting a higher difficulty level. Despite the challenge on how to write an argumentative essay, they are also the most fun to write, as they allow you to express your opinions in a highly opinionated form. WPS Office strives to enhance your writing experience, and as a writer, I can vouch for this. WPS Office not only offers advanced tools like WPS AI to help refine and improve your writing skills but also provides options to make your work as presentable as you want it to be. Download WPS Office today to experience the difference.

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  • 10 College Application Essay Dos and Don’ts 10 College Application Essay Dos and Don’ts

Updated: Monday, November 04, 2024

10 college application essay dos and don’ts.

how to write a do you agree essay

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Delaying your work on college application essays isn’t the best move, particularly because the National Association for College Admission Counseling classifies application essays as the most important “soft” factor, or non-quantitative elements, that colleges consider when making admissions decisions, right behind “hard” factors, or quantitative components, like grades, curriculum, and test scores. And in a year where more colleges than ever are test-optional , soft factors like the essay will carry even more weight in the admissions process this fall.

However, if you’re behind on your college admissions essays, don’t panic. There are a number of steps that students can take to put together the most accurate and compelling personal statements  and school-specific supplements that will help their chances of gaining admission to their top-choice colleges.

Here are some college application essay dos and don’ts for students to keep in mind as they complete their applications before Jan. 1 deadlines.

DON’T use the personal statement essay to repeat your activities list.

This can’t be stressed enough. The personal statement is your opportunity to reveal something about yourself that can’t be found anywhere else in your application — use it! Many students use this essay to expound upon activities or interests that are already heavily demonstrated in their application through courses, the activity list, and more. Instead of reinforcing a top activity or interest, write about something that reveals another dimension of your life or personality. If your top activity is swimming, don’t write about the big championship meet. Find something else that reveals something new and that shows you put a lot of thought into your essay. If your study of AP biology conflicts with your religious views, write about that and how you reconciled the two. Dig deep to find an essay topic that’s meaningful.

DO show a slice of your life.

When developing a topic that reveals something new, find a way to frame the story or idea that shows a slice of your life or the event. Be descriptive and give details that appeal to the senses — taste, touch, smell, etc. When writing about a meaningful experience or event, you don’t have to give a long timeline of events. Instead, give the reader the piece of the puzzle that conveys your message. Particularly when you’re feeling stressed for time, it can be helpful to remember that your job isn’t necessarily to tell a full-length story; it’s to focus on something smaller that demonstrates who you are and what you stand for.

DON’T copy and paste.

With upwards of 25 or more essays to write for a balanced college list of 10-12 schools, it’s tempting for students to repurpose essays across applications if the prompts are similar, especially when working down to the wire. While students can use the same main essay on the Common App for multiple schools, we always recommend that students tailor their supplemental essays to the individual colleges. Telling Caltech why you want to attend MIT is a quick way to end up in the “no” pile.

At the end of the day, attempting to repurpose essays isn’t the time-efficient solution either. While it might seem like a quick-fix, you’ll likely spend more time trying to rework an existing piece than you would if you started from scratch. Instead, give each essay a fresh start and set aside time to give every prompt your all.

DO show your knowledge of the college.

When tailoring responses to individual college prompts, it’s important to use specific details you’ve learned through visiting and research. Not only does this show colleges that you’ve have done your homework, but it also demonstrates your interest in the college – and colleges want to admit students who are likely to enroll. Show your knowledge of the college by mentioning specific courses, professors, places of interest, and more. Show how you fit into the campus culture and how you will impact the community through specific examples.

DON’T say what you think the admissions office wants to hear.

So many students think that they “know” what colleges want from an applicant , and this can have a big influence over their essays. Students will overuse the thesaurus and write about strange topics in an effort to impress and stand out. Instead of writing what you think the admissions office wants to read, write about what you want them to know.

Again, the essay is a great space to reveal something new about you, so stand out by being authentic and showing another side of yourself. For students who feel like they’re pressed for time, being genuine is likely also your most efficient strategy. Forget about trying to concoct a version of yourself that you think the admissions office wants to see and let your authentic personality shine through.

DO use your voice.

Using lofty language and complex sentence structure can make you sound sophisticated, but is that really how you speak? Don’t let your voice get lost in the pursuit to impress readers. Instead, write like you speak – keeping in mind that proper grammar and spelling is still important.

DON’T rely only on spellcheck.

Spellcheck won’t catch every spelling or grammatical error! Take the time to read over all your essays carefully and keep an eye out for things like “out” when you meant to say “our” and other common typos. Especially when you’re short on time, it can be easy to overlook spelling and grammar, but it’s always worth the few extra minutes to make sure you have error-free content. To be extra safe, have a parent or counselor read over the essay, too, to catch any errors you might have missed. Spelling and grammar errors can take away from an otherwise stellar essay – so be mindful.

DO double check that you’ve addressed the prompt.

This is one of the most common mistakes that students make . In the pursuit to write the perfect essay, many forget to connect it to the original prompt. While the Common Application prompts for the main essay are general enough to allow students to write about whatever they choose, it still needs to be clear how that essay addresses the prompt. The same applies to school-specific essays. Check and double check that a clear connection is made between the topic of your essay and the question the prompt is asking.

DON’T panic.

Working down to the wire can undoubtedly be stressful. Instead of beating yourself up for not starting sooner or worrying that you won’t be able to finish everything on time, focus on what you can control. Put all of your energy toward your application essays and devote as much time to writing and editing as possible. Keep tabs on every admissions deadline and prioritize what you will work on first accordingly. Create a strategy for completing every essay and stay accountable to the timeline you’ve created.

DO seek feedback when you can.

While it’s imperative that students write their own essays and use their authentic voice, every writer can benefit from a second set of eyes. Your college counselor can provide valuable insight into how to improve your college application essays, so seek feedback on your drafts as soon as possible.  School-based counselors  have a lot of students to advise and are very busy, so don’t wait!

Essays are an important component in the college application process. While the essay alone won’t gain you admission to your top-choice college, a poorly written one can send you to the “no” pile pretty quickly. Consequently, it’s important to give every essay your all and seek guidance when you need it – especially if you’re feeling overwhelmed leading up to critical deadlines.

If you need additional help with your college application essays, IvyWise offers a number of services designed to help high school seniors with their college applications . Contact us today for more information on our programs for seniors!

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The Common Application opened August 1, and millions of students across the globe will apply to college via the Common App this year. With so many students applying to college every year, most applicants have the same question on their minds: what can I do to increase my chances of standing out?

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Imagine that you’re applying to 10+ schools this fall. You’re spending what seems like an eternity trying to find that one email X college sent you, scrolling endlessly through your inbox. Maybe you can’t remember where you saved your latest essay draft for Y college on your laptop. What a headache!

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5 Common College Application Essay Myths

Make Sure You Know The Truth About College Application Essays Before Starting On Your Common Application

The Common Application opens this weekend on August 1, and for many rising seniors this is the perfect opportunity to get a head start on their college applications before the start of the school year. However, before students dive into their college application essays, they need to know what’s true, and what’s false, about these common application essay myths.

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Academic Essay: From Basics to Practical Tips

how to write a do you agree essay

Has it ever occurred to you that over the span of a solitary academic term, a typical university student can produce sufficient words to compose an entire 500-page novel? To provide context, this equates to approximately 125,000 to 150,000 words, encompassing essays, research papers, and various written tasks. This content volume is truly remarkable, emphasizing the importance of honing the skill of crafting scholarly essays. Whether you're a seasoned academic or embarking on the initial stages of your educational expedition, grasping the nuances of constructing a meticulously organized and thoroughly researched essay is paramount.

Welcome to our guide on writing an academic essay! Whether you're a seasoned student or just starting your academic journey, the prospect of written homework can be exciting and overwhelming. In this guide, we'll break down the process step by step, offering tips, strategies, and examples to help you navigate the complexities of scholarly writing. By the end, you'll have the tools and confidence to tackle any essay assignment with ease. Let's dive in!

Types of Academic Writing

The process of writing an essay usually encompasses various types of papers, each serving distinct purposes and adhering to specific conventions. Here are some common types of academic writing:

types of academic writing

  • Essays: Essays are versatile expressions of ideas. Descriptive essays vividly portray subjects, narratives share personal stories, expository essays convey information, and persuasive essays aim to influence opinions.
  • Research Papers: Research papers are analytical powerhouses. Analytical papers dissect data or topics, while argumentative papers assert a stance backed by evidence and logical reasoning.
  • Reports: Reports serve as narratives in specialized fields. Technical reports document scientific or technical research, while business reports distill complex information into actionable insights for organizational decision-making.
  • Reviews: Literature reviews provide comprehensive summaries and evaluations of existing research, while critical analyses delve into the intricacies of books or movies, dissecting themes and artistic elements.
  • Dissertations and Theses: Dissertations represent extensive research endeavors, often at the doctoral level, exploring profound subjects. Theses, common in master's programs, showcase mastery over specific topics within defined scopes.
  • Summaries and Abstracts: Summaries and abstracts condense larger works. Abstracts provide concise overviews, offering glimpses into key points and findings.
  • Case Studies: Case studies immerse readers in detailed analyses of specific instances, bridging theoretical concepts with practical applications in real-world scenarios.
  • Reflective Journals: Reflective journals serve as personal platforms for articulating thoughts and insights based on one's academic journey, fostering self-expression and intellectual growth.
  • Academic Articles: Scholarly articles, published in academic journals, constitute the backbone of disseminating original research, contributing to the collective knowledge within specific fields.
  • Literary Analyses: Literary analyses unravel the complexities of written works, decoding themes, linguistic nuances, and artistic elements, fostering a deeper appreciation for literature.

Our essay writer service can cater to all types of academic writings that you might encounter on your educational path. Use it to gain the upper hand in school or college and save precious free time.

academic essay order

Essay Writing Process Explained Video

The process of how to write an academic essay involves a series of important steps. To start, you'll want to do some pre-writing, where you brainstorm essay topics , gather information, and get a good grasp of your topic. This lays the groundwork for your essay.

Once you have a clear understanding, it's time to draft your essay. Begin with an introduction that grabs the reader's attention, gives some context, and states your main argument or thesis. The body of your essay follows, where each paragraph focuses on a specific point supported by examples or evidence. Make sure your ideas flow smoothly from one paragraph to the next, creating a coherent and engaging narrative.

After the drafting phase, take time to revise and refine your essay. Check for clarity, coherence, and consistency. Ensure your ideas are well-organized and that your writing effectively communicates your message. Finally, wrap up your essay with a strong conclusion that summarizes your main points and leaves a lasting impression on the reader.

How to Prepare for Essay Writing 

Before you start writing an academic essay, there are a few things to sort out. First, make sure you totally get what the assignment is asking for. Break down the instructions and note any specific rules from your teacher. This sets the groundwork.

Then, do some good research. Check out books, articles, or trustworthy websites to gather solid info about your topic. Knowing your stuff makes your essay way stronger. Take a bit of time to brainstorm ideas and sketch out an outline. It helps you organize your thoughts and plan how your essay will flow. Think about the main points you want to get across.

Lastly, be super clear about your main argument or thesis. This is like the main point of your essay, so make it strong. Considering who's going to read your essay is also smart. Use language and tone that suits your academic audience. By ticking off these steps, you'll be in great shape to tackle your essay with confidence.

Academic Essay Example

In academic essays, examples act like guiding stars, showing the way to excellence. Let's check out some good examples to help you on your journey to doing well in your studies.

Academic Essay Format

The academic essay format typically follows a structured approach to convey ideas and arguments effectively. Here's an academic essay format example with a breakdown of the key elements:

academic essay format

Introduction

  • Hook: Begin with an attention-grabbing opening to engage the reader.
  • Background/Context: Provide the necessary background information to set the stage.
  • Thesis Statement: Clearly state the main argument or purpose of the essay.

Body Paragraphs

  • Topic Sentence: Start each paragraph with a clear topic sentence that relates to the thesis.
  • Supporting Evidence: Include evidence, examples, or data to back up your points.
  • Analysis: Analyze and interpret the evidence, explaining its significance in relation to your argument.
  • Transition Sentences: Use these to guide the reader smoothly from one point to the next.

Counterargument (if applicable)

  • Address Counterpoints: Acknowledge opposing views or potential objections.
  • Rebuttal: Refute counterarguments and reinforce your position.

Conclusion:

  • Restate Thesis: Summarize the main argument without introducing new points.
  • Summary of Key Points: Recap the main supporting points made in the body.
  • Closing Statement: End with a strong concluding thought or call to action.

References/Bibliography

  • Cite Sources: Include proper citations for all external information used in the essay.
  • Follow Citation Style: Use the required citation style (APA, MLA, Chicago, etc.) specified by your instructor.
  • Font and Size: Use a standard font (e.g., Times New Roman, Arial) and size (12-point).
  • Margins and Spacing: Follow specified margin and spacing guidelines.
  • Page Numbers: Include page numbers if required.

Adhering to this structure helps create a well-organized and coherent academic essay that effectively communicates your ideas and arguments.

how to write a do you agree essay

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How to Write an Academic Essay Step by Step

Start with an introduction.

The introduction of an essay serves as the reader's initial encounter with the topic, setting the tone for the entire piece. It aims to capture attention, generate interest, and establish a clear pathway for the reader to follow. A well-crafted introduction provides a brief overview of the subject matter, hinting at the forthcoming discussion, and compels the reader to delve further into the essay. Consult our detailed guide on how to write an essay introduction for extra details.

Captivate Your Reader

Engaging the reader within the introduction is crucial for sustaining interest throughout the essay. This involves incorporating an engaging hook, such as a thought-provoking question, a compelling anecdote, or a relevant quote. By presenting an intriguing opening, the writer can entice the reader to continue exploring the essay, fostering a sense of curiosity and investment in the upcoming content. To learn more about how to write a hook for an essay , please consult our guide,

Provide Context for a Chosen Topic

In essay writing, providing context for the chosen topic is essential to ensure that readers, regardless of their prior knowledge, can comprehend the subject matter. This involves offering background information, defining key terms, and establishing the broader context within which the essay unfolds. Contextualization sets the stage, enabling readers to grasp the significance of the topic and its relevance within a particular framework. If you buy a dissertation or essay, or any other type of academic writing, our writers will produce an introduction that follows all the mentioned quality criteria.

Make a Thesis Statement

The thesis statement is the central anchor of the essay, encapsulating its main argument or purpose. It typically appears towards the end of the introduction, providing a concise and clear declaration of the writer's stance on the chosen topic. A strong thesis guides the reader on what to expect, serving as a roadmap for the essay's subsequent development.

Outline the Structure of Your Essay

Clearly outlining the structure of the essay in the introduction provides readers with a roadmap for navigating the content. This involves briefly highlighting the main points or arguments that will be explored in the body paragraphs. By offering a structural overview, the writer enhances the essay's coherence, making it easier for the reader to follow the logical progression of ideas and supporting evidence throughout the text.

Continue with the Main Body

The main body is the most important aspect of how to write an academic essay where the in-depth exploration and development of the chosen topic occur. Each paragraph within this section should focus on a specific aspect of the argument or present supporting evidence. It is essential to maintain a logical flow between paragraphs, using clear transitions to guide the reader seamlessly from one point to the next. The main body is an opportunity to delve into the nuances of the topic, providing thorough analysis and interpretation to substantiate the thesis statement.

Choose the Right Length

Determining the appropriate length for an essay is a critical aspect of effective communication. The length should align with the depth and complexity of the chosen topic, ensuring that the essay adequately explores key points without unnecessary repetition or omission of essential information. Striking a balance is key – a well-developed essay neither overextends nor underrepresents the subject matter. Adhering to any specified word count or page limit set by the assignment guidelines is crucial to meet academic requirements while maintaining clarity and coherence.

Write Compelling Paragraphs

In academic essay writing, thought-provoking paragraphs form the backbone of the main body, each contributing to the overall argument or analysis. Each paragraph should begin with a clear topic sentence that encapsulates the main point, followed by supporting evidence or examples. Thoroughly analyzing the evidence and providing insightful commentary demonstrates the depth of understanding and contributes to the overall persuasiveness of the essay. Cohesion between paragraphs is crucial, achieved through effective transitions that ensure a smooth and logical progression of ideas, enhancing the overall readability and impact of the essay.

Finish by Writing a Conclusion

The conclusion serves as the essay's final impression, providing closure and reinforcing the key insights. It involves restating the thesis without introducing new information, summarizing the main points addressed in the body, and offering a compelling closing thought. The goal is to leave a lasting impact on the reader, emphasizing the significance of the discussed topic and the validity of the thesis statement. A well-crafted conclusion brings the essay full circle, leaving the reader with a sense of resolution and understanding. Have you already seen our collection of new persuasive essay topics ? If not, we suggest you do it right after finishing this article to boost your creativity!

Proofread and Edit the Document

After completing the essay, a critical step is meticulous proofreading and editing. This process involves reviewing the document for grammatical errors, spelling mistakes, and punctuation issues. Additionally, assess the overall coherence and flow of ideas, ensuring that each paragraph contributes effectively to the essay's purpose. Consider the clarity of expression, the appropriateness of language, and the overall organization of the content. Taking the time to proofread and edit enhances the overall quality of the essay, presenting a polished and professional piece of writing. It is advisable to seek feedback from peers or instructors to gain additional perspectives on the essay's strengths and areas for improvement. For more insightful tips, feel free to check out our guide on how to write a descriptive essay .

Alright, let's wrap it up. Knowing how to write academic essays is a big deal. It's not just about passing assignments – it's a skill that sets you up for effective communication and deep thinking. These essays teach us to explain our ideas clearly, build strong arguments, and be part of important conversations, both in school and out in the real world. Whether you're studying or working, being able to put your thoughts into words is super valuable. So, take the time to master this skill – it's a game-changer!

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What Is An Academic Essay?

How to write an academic essay, how to write a good academic essay.

Daniel Parker

Daniel Parker

is a seasoned educational writer focusing on scholarship guidance, research papers, and various forms of academic essays including reflective and narrative essays. His expertise also extends to detailed case studies. A scholar with a background in English Literature and Education, Daniel’s work on EssayPro blog aims to support students in achieving academic excellence and securing scholarships. His hobbies include reading classic literature and participating in academic forums.

how to write a do you agree essay

is an expert in nursing and healthcare, with a strong background in history, law, and literature. Holding advanced degrees in nursing and public health, his analytical approach and comprehensive knowledge help students navigate complex topics. On EssayPro blog, Adam provides insightful articles on everything from historical analysis to the intricacies of healthcare policies. In his downtime, he enjoys historical documentaries and volunteering at local clinics.

Medical School Personal Statement

Trump declares Senate majority candidates should allow him to make recess appointments

Donald Trump

President-elect Donald Trump on Sunday involved himself publicly in the Senate leadership race for the first time, writing on Truth Social that anyone running to be the next Senate majority leader should agree to let him make recess appointments to his cabinet.

"Any Republican Senator seeking the coveted LEADERSHIP position in the United States Senate must agree to Recess Appointments (in the Senate!), without which we will not be able to get people confirmed in a timely manner," Trump wrote, adding, "Sometimes the votes can take two years, or more. This is what they did four years ago, and we cannot let it happen again. We need positions filled IMMEDIATELY!"

One of the demands he outlined is the ability to make recess appointments, which would allow the president to appoint people to senior administration positions and bypass Senate confirmation.

Currently, both chambers of Congress enter "pro forma" sessions, even when the House and the Senate are out of town, as a tactic to block the president from bypassing confirmation votes.

The Supreme Court rebuked President Barack Obama when he   made recess appointments, ruling 9-0 that he made them during a three-day break and that recesses are technically longer than that. The ruling gave the Senate more power to thwart such appointments in the future.

In 2020, during the throes of the Covid pandemic, Trump threatened to unilaterally adjourn Congress so he could make recess appointments, but the threat never materialized.

Trump's post Sunday is his first time he has weighed into the race to replace Minority Leader Mitch McConnell of Kentucky, Republicans' de facto leader in the Senate.

GOP Sens. John Cornyn of Texas, Rick Scott of Florida and John Thune of South Dakota, the minority whip, are running to replace him.

Rick Scott arrives for a vote at the Capitol

Scott quickly weighed Sunday, writing on X that he agrees with Trump about recess appointments.

"100% agree. I will do whatever it takes to get your nominations through as quickly as possible," Scott w rote .

Cornyn wrote on X that it is “unacceptable” for Senate Democrats to block Trump appointments.

“The Constitution expressly confers the power on the President to make recess appointments,” he wrote in the post . “Article II, Section 2, Clause 3: The President shall have Power to fill up all Vacancies that may happen during the Recess of the Senate, by granting Commissions which shall expire at the End of their next Session.”

Thune said members of the Senate must act "quickly and decisively" on Trump appointments.

“We must act quickly and decisively to get the president’s nominees in place as soon as possible, & all options are on the table to make that happen, including recess appointments. We cannot let Schumer and Senate Dems block the will of the American people," he wrote on X .

The race to succeed McConnell has heated up since Election Day, with rank-and-file GOP senators publicly endorsing their picks.

Republican Sens. Rand Paul of Kentucky, Tommy Tuberville of Alabama, Marco Rubio of Florida and Bill Hagerty of Tennessee have all endorsed Scott.

Sen. Josh Hawley, R-Mo., has endorsed Cornyn.

On Thursday, Thune urged Trump not to endorse in the race, telling CNBC in an interview, “Obviously, if he wants to, he could exert a considerable amount of influence on that, but honestly, I think my preference would be, and I think it’s probably in his best interest, to stay out of that."

Scott told Trump in May that he would run to succeed McConnell and asked for his endorsement, a source familiar with the call told NBC News .

Cornyn, Scott and Thune will meet Tuesday evening at a candidates forum organized by Sen. Mike Lee, R-Utah. On Wednesday morning, just hours before Trump meets with President Joe Biden at the White House, senators will vote for a new majority leader by secret ballot.

In the second part of his Truth Social post Sunday, Trump called on Democrats not to confirm any additional judicial nominees before the start of the next congressional session.

"Additionally, no Judges should be approved during this period of time because the Democrats are looking to ram through their Judges as the Republicans fight over Leadership. THIS IS NOT ACCEPTABLE. THANK YOU!" Trump wrote, suggesting Republicans should stop Democrats from confirming judges during the lame duck session.

That would work only if Republicans slow-walk the process. They cannot unilaterally stop Senate Majority Leader Chuck Schumer, D-N.Y., from putting nominees on the floor.

how to write a do you agree essay

Julie Tsirkin is a correspondent covering Capitol Hill.

how to write a do you agree essay

Alexandra Marquez is a politics reporter for NBC News.

How to Write a Persuasive Essay

Kelly Konya

The ancient art of rhetoric dates back to the Classical period of ancient Greece, when rhetoricians used this persuasive form of public speaking to address their fellow citizens in the Greek republics. As time went on, rhetoric remained at the center of education in the western world for nearly 2,000 years. In our modern world, rhetoric is still an integral part of human discourse, utilized by world leaders and students alike to argue their points of view.

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The definition of rhetoric is the “art of effective or persuasive speaking or writing,” where language is used to have a convincing or impressive effect on the audience being addressed. 

At some point in every student’s academic career, instructors will deliver the assignment to write a persuasive essay that argues for or against a certain topic. Whether or not you’ve taken a course in rhetoric, students can apply the principles of rhetoric to write an effective persuasive essay that convinces the audience to accept a certain viewpoint.

To be as convincing as Aristotle on the stand, your persuasive essay must be based on sound logic and factual evidence that support the overall argument. As you begin to think about writing a persuasive essay, here are several tips that will help you argue your topic like a true rhetorician. 

Choose a position you’re passionate about

The first step in writing a persuasive essay is choosing a topic and picking a side. If the topic is something you believe in, it will make the entire experience of researching, writing, and arguing your perspective more personal. Choosing a topic that appeals to you on an emotional or sentimental level will make its defense easier. Plus, chances are you’ll already know a good deal of information about the topic, so you won’t be left scrambling when it’s time to start your research.

Thoroughly research both sides

Every argument has a counterargument—this is one of the staples of rhetoric. To convince your reader to agree with you, you must be knowledgeable of the opposing side. As important as it is to thoroughly research your topic, identifying and studying both sides of the argument will help you develop the strongest supporting evidence possible. During the research process, gather as much information as you can about the topic at hand. Use your school’s resources like the library, academic journals, and reference materials. With a full understanding of your topic, you’ll be able to readily counter the opposition and assuage any follow-up questions that might cast doubt on your claims.

>>READ MORE:  7 Essay Writing Tips

Draft your thesis statement

One of the most important elements of your persuasive essay is your thesis statement , which should tell readers exactly what your stance encompasses. Without a forceful thesis, you won’t be able to deliver an effective argument. The construction of your thesis statement should include the “what” and the “how” of your argument—what is the argument you are trying to convince your readers to accept? And how will I convince my readers that the argument is sound? While the “how” may become clearer as your essay progresses, your thesis statement should set up the organizational pattern of your essay while presenting your position.

Create a working structure or outline

Outlining your paper will give you a clear view of your argument and the way it develops. Think critically about the strengths and weaknesses of your argument—where would it be most effective for you to introduce your strongest supporting evidence? For rhetoric’s sake, it’s probably not wise to save the best for last. Instead, use your outline to get organized from the outset, anchoring each point in evidence, analysis, and counterargument. List out all of your major claims and the research that supports each point. Creating a working structure will allow you to break down your argument in a logical and concise order, which will make the writing process more straightforward.

Write with integrity and empathy

The most successful rhetorical arguments draw on three main elements: ethos (ethical reasoning) , logos (logical reasoning) , and pathos (passionate reasoning). If amassed perfectly, these three components will make your argument so powerfully robust that nobody could disagree. However, this is easier said than done; even master rhetoricians struggle to find a balance of these three elements. Ethically, you’ll want to make sure you aren’t misleading or manipulating your argument. Logically, your points must be based in fact and progress in a way that makes sense. Passionately, you should emphasize your evidence and use strategic repetition to compel your audience. The key is to find a harmony or balance among these three elements, writing with integrity and empathy.

>>READ MORE:  How to Write Better Essays

As Eben Pagan said, “You can’t convince anyone of anything. You can only give them the right information, so that they can convince themselves.” In the spirit of the ancient Greek rhetoricians, knowing how to write a persuasive essay is an essential function of human discourse—and a true art form when done correctly.

how to write a do you agree essay

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Band 7+: Leadership skills are learned not innate. Do you agree or disagree?

Today, leadership skills play an imperative role in human success, which have to undergo a learning process. Meanwhile, many critics believe that it is an innate ability. I strongly agree with the former, because leadership skills are improved by experience and adaptability.

It is undeniable that some people are genetically predisposed to become leaders because of their personality traits and natural charisma. To begin with, personality traits such as extroversion, confidence, and assertiveness can predispose individuals to be effective leaders. These traits often influence how people interact with others and handle challenges, which make a great contribution to the sufficiency of the working process. Moreover, some people possess a natural charisma that draws others to them. Charismatic leaders often have a magnetic presence that makes it easier for them to influence, persuade, and connect emotionally with followers who buy into their vision.

On the other hand, the essential skills of leadership can be developed through experience and adaptability. In terms of experience, leadership skills include an array of skills such as communication, decision-making, and conflict resolution, improved with real-world experience and deliberate practice. These skills require people to undergo the process of trial and error to find the best way of handling their tasks to achieve the highest productivity. Regarding adaptability, leadership often requires adapting to various situations and challenges. It is evident that many successful scientists have tried new techniques to acquire comprehensive knowledge to become pioneers in some fields.

In conclusion, although people may be naturally talented leaders based on their personality traits and charisma, I strongly believe that leadership skills should be enhanced through the learning process.

Check Your Own Essay On This Topic?

Generate a band-9 sample with your idea, overall band score, task response, coherence & cohesion, lexical resource, grammatical range & accuracy, other topics:, in some countries, the elderly are highly valued and respectful, while in other youth is more highly valued. discuss both sides and give your own opinion..

Youngsters and old ones are assets for any community. Senior citizens are considered as valuable asset in some countries whilst others considered the young blood as their valuable asset. I agree with the one who considered young one as their asset because they are the future. They will play major part in boosting the economy […]

Write an essay of 350 words on the following topic: Living in the abundance of mass media does more harm than good. To what extent do you agree or disagree?

Owing to the imperative role of social media in this contemporary era, the issue of whether the prevalence of this means of communication rendered conducive or troublesome impacts on one’s living standards has attracted a great deal of public attention and interdisciplinary experts including sociologists, psychoanalysts and policymakers. The attempt of this essay is to […]

Some people think that more money should be spent on protecting endangered species while others think it is a waste of valuable money. What is your opinion?

Many have argued about the resources involved in protecting endangered species. Some believe that more money should be spent on the safekeeping of these animals, while others believe that any extra money spent on their upkeep would be a waste of resources. I believe that additional funds should be added for their protection, which could […]

The growing number of overweight people is putting a strain on the health care system in a effort to deal with the health issues involved. Some people think that the best way to deal with this problem is to introduce more physical education lessons in the curriculum.

Obesity is an increasing issue that has been difficulting the operations of our health system. It is argued that in order to solve this problem, sports and physical education should be taught. This is certainly true, however it would not be a solution by itself. Other healthy habits, such a good nutrition, should be encouraged. […]

An increasing number of children are overweight which could result many problems when they grow older both in terms of their health and health care costs. Why do you think are the reasons for this? How can we solve this problem?

Today, the majority of children are suffering from obesity that could lead to numerous health issues and care costs when they become old. The main reasons for this can be attributed to a sedentary lifestyle and an unhealthy diet. However, there are several solutions which we can address these problems. One of the root causes […]

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  1. Do You Agree Or Disagree With The Issue Free Essay Example

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  2. How To Write An Agree Or Disagree Essay

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  3. How to Write an Essay in 9 Simple Steps • 7ESL

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  4. Do You Agree or Disagree (400 Words)

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  5. How to Start an Agreement Essay

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  6. How To Write a Compelling Argumentative Essay: Expert Tips & Guide

    how to write a do you agree essay

VIDEO

  1. Do you agree? 🤔🐐👑

  2. IELTS WRITING TASK 2: Agree or Disagree Essay কিভাবে লিখবেন ? I IELTS Zeb

  3. IELTS TASK-2 ESSAY FORMAT

  4. How to write a to what extent do you agree or disagree essay?

  5. Opinion Essay Made Easy: IELTS Writing Task 2 Sample Answer (Agree or Disagree)

  6. Getting a high score in IELTS Academic Writing Task 2: To what extent

COMMENTS

  1. How to Write an Argumentative Essay: A Step-By-Step Guide

    Persuasive writing may appeal to emotions and values to connect with readers and convince them to agree with you. Evidence and Support. Argumentative Essay: You rely on factual evidence, such as statistics, studies, and expert opinions. Your argument builds on objective, verifiable sources.

  2. IELTS Writing Task 2: Opinion Essays Explained

    What is an IELTS Writing Task 2 Opinion Essay? IELTS opinion essays ask you to agree or disagree with a specific idea. You'll choose one side to support and develop your argument. You have 40 minutes to write at least 250 words on the given topic. In the IELTS Writing Task 2, an opinion essay asks you to state your opinion on a given topic ...

  3. How to Write an Opinion Based Essay

    When writing your title ask yourself: Do you agree or disagree with your topic? Then write that statement as the title of your essay. (Example title: Poaching should be banned internationally.) ... -if you are writing your essay by hand, write neatly and legibly. Check out our English Courses . Categories. English at Work; Exam Focus;

  4. Argumentative Essays

    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.

  5. Essay Writing

    Essays are shorter pieces of writing that often require the student to hone a number of skills such as close reading, analysis, comparison and contrast, persuasion, conciseness, clarity, and exposition. As is evidenced by this list of attributes, there is much to be gained by the student who strives to succeed at essay writing.

  6. Persuasive Writing Strategies and Tips, with Examples

    What is persuasive writing? Unlike other forms of writing meant to share information or entertain, persuasive writing is specifically written to persuade, which is to say it convinces the reader to agree with a certain point of view.. Persuasive essays are most closely related to argumentative essays, in that both discuss a serious issue with logical arguments and offer conclusive resolutions.

  7. How to Write a Discursive Essay, With Examples

    Tips for writing a discursive essay. When you start writing a discursive essay, keep the following tips in mind: Be clear and concise. When you're writing a discursive essay, your primary goal is for readers to understand its key points. Use clear, concise language to reduce the chance of confusion or misinterpretation.

  8. What is a Thesis Statement: Writing Guide with Examples

    How to write a thesis statement for compare-and-contrast essays. Thesis statements for compare-and-contrast essays are tricky because you have at least two topics to touch on instead of just one. The same general guidelines apply (decisive language, details, etc.), but you need to give equal attention to both your topics—otherwise, your essay will seem biased from the start.

  9. Strategies for Essay Writing

    Tips for Reading an Assignment Prompt. Asking Analytical Questions. Thesis. Introductions. What Do Introductions Across the Disciplines Have in Common? Anatomy of a Body Paragraph. Transitions. Tips for Organizing Your Essay. Counterargument.

  10. Step-by-Step Guide How to Write a Persuasive Essay

    A persuasive essay is a type of writing where your goal is to take a stand on an issue and persuade your audience to see things from your perspective. To do this, you'll use a mix of reasoning, evidence, and sometimes even a touch of emotion to get your point across. Now, there are a few types of persuasive essays you might deal with.

  11. How to Write an Argumentative Essay- Steps with Examples

    Consider this a growing process—once you overcome the challenges of writing argumentative essays, you will learn the art of agreeing or disagreeing with popular opinions and defending your stance. As far as the essay is concerned, I will show you how to master this process on how to write an argumentative essay. How to write an argumentative ...

  12. How To Write an Argumentative Essay

    Many people experience difficulties with how to write an argumentative essay, and thus require assistance when asked to complete argumentative essays for college or school. You can seek help from an online essay writing service to solve your problem. Lastly, read your paper. Are you convinced?

  13. 10 College Application Essay Dos and Don'ts

    Spelling and grammar errors can take away from an otherwise stellar essay - so be mindful. DO double check that you've addressed the prompt. This is one of the most common mistakes that students make. In the pursuit to write the perfect essay, many forget to connect it to the original prompt.

  14. Academic Essay: From Start to A+ Finish

    Essay Writing Process Explained Video. The process of how to write an academic essay involves a series of important steps. To start, you'll want to do some pre-writing, where you brainstorm essay topics, gather information, and get a good grasp of your topic. This lays the groundwork for your essay.

  15. Trump declares Senate majority candidates should allow him to make

    Scott quickly weighed Sunday, writing on X that he agrees with Trump about recess appointments. "100% agree. I will do whatever it takes to get your nominations through as quickly as possible ...

  16. How to Write a Persuasive Essay: Tips and Tricks

    The first step in writing a persuasive essay is choosing a topic and picking a side. If the topic is something you believe in, it will make the entire experience of researching, writing, and arguing your perspective more personal. Choosing a topic that appeals to you on an emotional or sentimental level will make its defense easier.

  17. Band 7: You should spend about 40 minutes on this task. Write about the

    Write about the following topic: Today's schools should teach their students how to survive financially in the world today. To what extent do you agree or disagree with this statement? Give reasons for your answer and include any relevant examples from your knowledge or experience. You should write at least 250 words.

  18. How Do You Create an Evaluation Writing?

    Evaluation Essay Ideas — In Case You Have to Come Up With One The essay topic should be appealing to you and your audience. It will inspire and aid in generating talking points when working on it. We have collected a list of interesting vectors and relevant criteria for evaluation essay to save you time searching for a topic.

  19. Band 5: WRITING TASK 2 You should spend about 40 minutes on this task

    Check out this IELTS Writing Task 2 essay written by our user on the topic: WRITING TASK 2 You should spend about 40 minutes on this task. Write about the. ... and possibly for women too. Do you agree or disagree with this statement? Give reasons for your answer and include any relevant examples from your own knowledge and experience. Write at ...

  20. Band 7+: Dogs are friends, not food. do you agree or disagree

    User Written IELTS Writing Task 1 Essays; User-Written IELTS Writing Task 2 Essays; User-Submitted IELTS Speaking Answers; IELTS Tips; IELTS Tools; Tools Menu Toggle. Writing Task 1 Report Checker; Writing Task 1 Letter Checker; Writing Task 2 Essay Checker; Writing Task 1 Report Generator; Writing Task 1 Letter Generator; Writing Task 2 Essay ...

  21. Band 8: Some people believe that hobbies need to be difficult to be

    Check out this IELTS Writing Task 2 essay written by our user on the topic: Some people believe that hobbies need to be difficult to be enjoyable. ... Do you agree or disagree? Government investment in the arts , such as music, and theatre, is a eate of money.Government must invest this money in public services instead. Government must funding ...

  22. Hướng dẫn cách làm bài To what extent do you agree or disagree?

    So sánh giữa dạng đề "To what extent do you agree or disagree" và "Do you agree or disagree" trong IELTS Writing Task 2; Cách tiếp cận đối với dạng đề "To what extent do you agree or disagree" trong IELTS Writing Task 2; Bước 1: Xác định rõ ràng quan điểm cá nhân; Bước 2: Xây dựng một dàn ý logic

  23. Band 7: Leadership skills are learned not innate. Do you agree or

    User Written IELTS Writing Task 1 Essays; User-Written IELTS Writing Task 2 Essays; User-Submitted IELTS Speaking Answers; IELTS Tips; IELTS Tools; Tools Menu Toggle. Writing Task 1 Report Checker; Writing Task 1 Letter Checker; Writing Task 2 Essay Checker; Writing Task 1 Report Generator; Writing Task 1 Letter Generator; Writing Task 2 Essay ...