How to Structure an Argument in Your Essay

Introduction: What is an Argument?

An argument is when a person makes a claim on a topic and then backs it up with facts, figures, and other proof. While arguments can occur in a number of contexts, including political arenas, marketing campaigns, and the business world, it's most typical for individuals in research-based professions to obtain knowledge in their particular fields through presenting arguments.

Academics, particularly philosophers, examine the most effective methods for arguing and persuading an audience to accept a particular point of view in order to accomplish this successfully.

The main focus of this topic is the idea of logical thinking, or the method of concluding by following a set of organised stages. In order for an audience to deduce a conclusion, a conclusion must be presented, a premise must be established, and supporting evidence must be presented.

Professionals may convince a crowd and lead them to adopt a particular position by making a compelling case. Professionals from a variety of sectors may become skilled problem solvers by learning how to use logic strategically. As a result, students may develop their critical thinking skills to masterfully navigate communication, make wise judgements, and guide others.

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Argument Structure Types

Argument structures can take many different forms. Based on the style of reasoning they convey; the majority of arguments may be divided into one of two main categories −

Inductive − Drawing general inferences from data obtained via specific contexts is known as inductive reasoning.

Deductive − Comparatively, deductive reasoning is the process of using information from certain instances to support a bigger conclusion. Deductive reasoning is frequently used by scientists and researchers to describe their data in order to conclusively support or refute a hypothesis, even if some arguments use both inductive and deductive reasoning.

In general, a convincing argument must adhere to an organisational structure that is simple for the audience to understand and follow. In light of this, there are three primary sorts of structures to take into account while developing an argument −

Toulmin Technique

An argumentation framework called the Toulmin approach was initially described by author Stephen Toulmin. This approach focuses on providing factual evidence to back up the numerous major arguments of an argument.

The Toulmin technique follows the format as follows −

• Claim − Explanation of a broad assertion or the rationale behind it.

• Grounds − Submission of evidence in support of the aforementioned assertion.

• Bridge − A discussion of the evidence and how it relates to how your claim is supported by it.

• Foundation − Exposition of extra evidence or justification that backs up the connections from the bridge.

• Counterclaim − Expecting and talking about opposing views of view.

• Rebuttal − A statement that uses evidence to disprove a counterclaim.

Classical Technique

The classical technique was first described by the Greek philosopher Aristotle, and it was later improved by people like the Roman rhetoricians Cicero and Quintilian. This approach emphasises on providing evidence and defining an argument in a way that makes it easy for the audience to reach conclusions.

The classical approach employs the following framework −

• Introduction − presenting a problem and highlighting its significance.

• Background − Explanation of pertinent details that provide light on the issue's historical background will help the audience gain a deeper understanding.

• Proposition − A statement of the main assertion and supporting arguments.

• Proof is the presentation of logic, data, and connections to back up your assertion.

• Refutation − Anticipation of and response to arguments against your assertion.

• Conclusion − A brief statement of your claim and the main supporting arguments. Engage the audience's specific feelings, principles, or viewpoints.

Rogerian Technique

The Rogerian technique was modified by composition academics using Carl Rogers' work as a guide. This approach is well-liked for debating contentious subjects because it concentrates on finding a middle ground or compromise that people with divergent viewpoints may accept.

The Rogerian approach employs the following framework −

• Introduction − presenting a problem objectively

• opposing viewpoint balanced explanation of a viewpoint that differs from your main one.

• Observation of validity acknowledging the truth of an opposing viewpoint in a particular situation

• Position − Describe your main position.

• Provide examples of numerous situations in why your perspective is valid, particularly in certain circumstances.

• Exposition of the advantages of having your stance accepted by the audience without discounting the opposite viewpoint.

Structuring an Argument

The five-paragraph style is one of the most popular ones for argumentative essays. Yet, this approach is by no means the only viable way to create an argument. The essay's five paragraphs are: Three evidence-based body paragraphs, including one or more that examine competing viewpoints, three paragraphs of introduction, and a conclusion.

A thesis statement, transitions between the introduction, body, and conclusion, paragraphs presenting supporting evidence, and a conclusion are all components of an argument.

Paragraph 1: Thesis Statement

• A recap of the subject.

• Explanation of the significance of the subject (exigence).

• Statement of the thesis, sufficiently condensed to fit the requirements of the assignment.

Transitions between the introduction, body, and conclusion that are seamless and make sense

• An essay is held together by transitions.

• For readers to understand the argument, there must be a logical chain of reasoning.

• Transitions introduce the following part and recap the themes from the previous section.

Body paragraphs with supporting evidence

• Each paragraph should only describe one main concept.

• Establish a logical link between it and the thesis statement.

• Describe how and why the evidence is consistent with the theory.

• Provide contrasting viewpoints on the subject and explain why they don't lend credence to the argument.

Evidence-based backing (whether factual, logical, statistical, or anecdotal)

• The thesis should be supported by some factual, logical, statistical, or anecdotal evidence. Moreover, evidence from many points of view should be gathered.

• NOTE: It is improper to ignore evidence that could refute a claim.

• The author owes it to readers to explain why opposing viewpoints might not be fully knowledgeable or current on the subject.

A conclusion that, rather than merely restating the thesis, revisits it in light of the supporting data

• The hardest portion of an argumentative essay to write are frequently the conclusions.

• The most recent impression is given in the conclusions.

• Don't include any new material in the summary.

• A conclusion is reached when the material has been combined.

• Restate the significance of the subject, then go through the key elements and the argument.

• The conclusion should also include a brief description of any additional research that should or should be conducted in light of the results.

Conclusion

A comprehensive argument resembles a written form of a competitive discussion since it calls for a clear goal. The discussion at the very least includes a premise, supporting evidence, and arguments for why the premise should be accepted. There must be no room for dispute regarding the argument's goal, thus it must be comprehensive and logical.