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Argumentative Essay Structure | Outline and Formats
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A strong outline for an argumentative essay should include an unambiguous thesis `statement and a comprehensive layout to help you organise your ideas, research and the placement of your arguments. In light of the possible counterclaims, a detailed structure helps you in planning solid rebuttals and it enables you to write a definite conclusion encapsulating the core of your claim.
Find Argumentative Essay Examples here
A well-balanced argumentative essay helps you authenticate your claim by using substantial research in favour of your arguments and also refute the counter arguments of the opposing side.
How to Devise an Argumentative Essay Structure
There is no fixed formula of designing the layout of an argumentative essay as unlike other types of essay, this genre of writing is more complex and demands flexibility in accordance to the topic chosen.
Mostly, there are five paragraphs in a simple argumentative essay.
Introduction: The introductory paragraph outlines the staunch stance of the writer through a precise and irrefutable topic sentence. This paragraph should end with the thesis statement and the outline of the evidence presented in the following paragraphs to support the claim. The introductory paragraph serves as the launching pad, and it must present a precise version of the entire essay.
Thesis statement: The thesis statement encapsulates the central idea of an essay or a research paper. The style in which the thesis statement is usually written varies according to the type of essay. Sometimes, a thesis statement is a precise and strong-worded claim. Other times, it is a short paragraph which starts with a question; that question can help a writer analyse a prompt and develop a claim for an argumentative essay.
Body Paragraphs: In argumentative essays, there are usually three paragraphs which carry the defence of the claim. Ideally, each paragraph has to present one argument in favour of the thesis statement. The argument should be backed with evidence, which includes research, surveys, examples and case studies. The body paragraphs also address the possible counterclaims made by the opposing side.
A question might arise in the writer’s mind, “how does an effective argumentative essay address counterclaims?” the answer to this question is that the writer must include a counterargument and then explain why it is a weak claim. In order to refute an opposing argument, the writer must authenticate it by presenting evidence.
Conclusion: The last paragraph of the argumentative essay must reinforce and support the claim made in the thesis statement. The writer is also expected to add the summarised version of the arguments they made throughout the essay. The writer must avoid giving away any new evidence or arguments. However, they must outline the significance of the topic chosen, and they may share any personal account which adds weight to the concluding remarks.
Classic Argumentative Essay Outline
Introduction:
- Start with a hook to inspire the reader to follow you until the end.
- Provide background information; this information must lead the reader to your claim.
- Present your thesis statement and explain why you have that position.
Body Paragraphs:
- In the first body paragraph, present the less complex argument and at least three empirical reasons to support it. After providing the evidential support, link them with your argument again and conclude.
- Present your second argument and provide research to back it up. Preferably, give one argument in each paragraph and defend it.
- In this paragraph, address the opposing views.
- Present the first counterargument and explain their stance.
- Identify the weakness of their position.
- Refute the counterclaim with the help of evidence.
- Retain your stance.
- If there is a need, add one more paragraph to address counterclaims.
Conclusion:
- Preserve your stance and reinforce the thesis statement.
- Refrain from introducing any new arguments or evidence.
- Wrap it up with a strong concluding statement.
How does the Structure Vary with Different Formats of Argumentative Essays?
Due to the complex nature of argumentative essays, there is no fixed structure to format an argumentative essay. Apart from a typical argumentative essay structure which has been explained in detail earlier. There are two other formats of argumentative essay, Toulmin and Rogerian, both of these formats significantly alter the structure of an argumentative essay.
Toulmin: This format is opted when the chosen topic has a strong opposing side. It allows us to hinge both sides together when it is difficult to pick one side with absolute clarity.
- You are required to state your claim then present arguments backed with evidence. Relate the evidence with your claim in order to prove validity.
- Present additional evidence and also highlight the limitations of your argument in the light of the counterclaims.
- Highlight the weak links of the opposing argument to the claim and provide rebuttal on the basis of your findings.
Toulmin Argumentative Essay Outline
Introduction:
- Start with a hook.
- Shed light on the topic and its significance.
- Present your thesis statement.
Body Paragraphs:
- Start the first body paragraph with the most complex argument and provide supporting data.
- In the second paragraph, provide more justification to support your claim to authenticate and present more research. It would be best to highlight the weak links of your claim argument, too.
- Add more arguments to validate your claim and back it up with data.
- In this paragraph, Address contradictory views and discuss their merits fairly. Present your rebuttals to refute the counterclaims.
Conclusion:
- Retain your stance and endorse all the supporting evidence to your claim.
- Reinforce your rebuttals and highlight the weakness of the opposing side
- Give a strong and reaffirming closing statement.
Rogerian:
This format is used when there is no losing side of the claim. The writer is expected to view both sides as two sides of the same coin.
- First, introduce the argument and elaborate the opposing point of view. Explain why it is valid.
- Present your position and explain why you have that stance.
- Find a common ground between the two sides and add validity to both sides.
- Highlight the grey areas which need further research while you conclude your arguments.
Rogerian Argumentative Essay Outline
Introduction
- State the issue which needs a solution and explain it with all the relevant information.
- Shed light on how you would like to see it resolved and what solution the opposing side came up with.
- Present your thesis statement.
Body Paragraphs
- In the first body paragraph, add the opposing view and provide evidence to support their point of view. You should add or refute your remark if you have found evidence against it.
- You should add weight to the opposing view and explain how they are in the right to make those arguments. Authenticate their reasons with research.
- Now, present your views and justify your position with the help of data. With each of your arguments, add research to validate your arguments.
- In this paragraph, highlight the common ground between your views and the opposing side. Explain how both sides must be part of the solution.
Conclusion
- Express your regard for the opposing side and their contribution to resolving the issue.
- Retain your position and explain how a collaborative approach would minimise the limitations of both sides.
- Conclude on a positive note.
Conclusion:
Structuring an argumentative essay can be very challenging as there is no correct way to do it. The structure of the essay varies with the topic, arguments, counterclaims and format of an argumentative essay. A well-constructed structure will enable the writer to present their claim and arguments in the best possible manner.
