Writing Arguments: Steps to Writing an Argument - Anticipate Active Opposition

Writing Arguments

Steps to Writing an Argument

Anticipate Active Opposition

When you write an argument essay, you need to think about the other side of the issue. To do this, you want to question the evidence and the general conclusions drawn from that evidence.

Question how the opposition used logic, ethical arguments, and plays on the readers’ emotions to build their argument.

Question the conclusions drawn by the opposition and how they persuade their audience.

As a writer, you want to anticipate the point of view on the other side of the argument. When you argue that one position is superior to another, you must present its strengths and weaknesses. Why is this important? If you fully understand the other’s point of view, you can provide research and reasoning that support your point of view in a more effective way.

If you are presenting the facts but not taking one position, you should present the strengths and weaknesses on both sides of the argument, critically evaluating the ideas, evidence, claims, methods, and conclusions.

Making a list of strengths and weaknesses for each position is a good foundation for understanding the problem at hand. As you make your list, be sure to take notes about where you found the information and whether what you have written is a quote, paraphrase, or summary.

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