What to pay attention when writing an argumentative essay

1. Writing For and
Against Essays
Some basics to follow
By Maive Salakka

2. STEP 1
Understanding the topic
Read through the task (rubric) and make sure you
understand what is expected from you.

3. STEP 2
Finding pros and cons
PROs CONs
Make a list of at Make a list of at least 3
least negative
3 positive/good reasons/disadvantages
reasons/advantages*
* *
*
*
*

4. STEP 3
Finding Justification
* Think one reason for each pro/con,
how they influence the idea stated.
* Think and put down the linkers to join
the ideas into sentences.

5. STEP 4
Topic sentences
* Think about a suitable topic sentence
to begin your paragraph to introduce
your ideas.
* Use different linkers to join your
arguments and justifications with the
topic sentence and each other.

6. STEP 5
Giving your opinion
* Make up your mind on the idea
presented
* Give a balanced conclusion
* Give your point of view.

7. STEP 6
Writing introduction
* Choose an appropriate beginning
(rhetoric question; quotation, direct
address)
* State what you are going to write about
* DO NOT give your opinion