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Tips for First-Time Writers of Argumentative Essays

by Dr. John Barrett

When most of us think about persuasive writing or writing that stakes out and defends a position, we naturally consider the highly charged, emotional hot-button issues that enliven (and some say pollute) the airwaves of radio, television, and the Internet. These are issues such as gun control, immigration violations, abortion, and government spending that attract audiences, boost ratings, and agitate audiences.

But if you are a newcomer to the argumentative genre, I would recommend that you shy away from these topics. The heightened emotions surrounding such topics make it difficult for a writer to pierce preconceptions and clear the clouds that mask reasoning and logic.

I recommend instead that inexperienced writers choose a topic that is directly connected to their own lives. Whenever a writer is grounded in the subject, the writing is likely to be stronger and the research less onerous. Let me give you some examples. If you commute more than 45 minutes to work or school, you might consider a topic that would capture a change that would make a difference in your commute. This might include expanded or improved public transportation by way of rail lines, increasing the lanes on the highways, or some other tangible improvement that would affect the quality of your life. If you are a new parent who searches for quality childcare so that you can continue your education, you might consider a topic surrounding this important service. Should childcare centers be licensed and certified? Would this give you greater peace of mind knowing that the place taking care of your child must measure up to certain standards? As you can see from these examples, the possibility of a narrow but arguable topic is all around you.

One final note about topics that are grounded in your own life: a good argumentative writer is capable of stepping back from the topic and looking objectively at the issue in order to identify and understand opposing viewpoints. Achieving objectivity is harder when you are invested in the topic, but it is essential for an effective argumentative essay that gains the reader’s respect and confidence in you as a writer.