Secrets To Writing A Decent 5-Paragraph Argumentative Essay

The purpose of an argumentative essay is to prove a specific point. It is not uncommon for these to be assigned to middle school and high school students, and even college students sometimes. Keep these secrets in mind as you start writing a 5-paragraph essay to ensure you get full points.

• #1: Understand the Set-Up

A basic 5-paragraph argumentative paper includes an introduction, 3 body paragraphs, and a conclusion. Your introduction will provide background information on your topic. You will also add a thesis statement to the end, which should allude to your 3 body paragraphs. The body paragraphs will support the thesis with facts. Finally, the conclusion wraps everything up and leaves the reader with a sense of closure.

• #2: Choose Something You Are Passionate About

You will find it hard to write an essay on a topic you find boring. Choose an issue that you feel strongly about, but be prepared to defend your argument with facts. When you are interested in your work, you will be more likely to enjoy working on the assignment.

• #3: Construct a Solid Thesis Statement

Your thesis statement sets up your entire paper. It should relate directly to the first topic sentence of the three body paragraphs. Additionally, you should mention your thesis for a second time in the final paragraph.

• #4: Argue with Facts, Not Opinions

While your personal opinions may have guided you as you chose your topic, it is important that you leave emotions out of an academic assignment. Do the research to find information to back up your argument. You want 3 major points that defend your argument and supporting points to explore the major points.

• #5: Use an Outline to Set Things Up

Before you begin writing a 5-paragraph essay, create an outline. The great thing about an outline is that it shows you where all the details of your paper will go. If you construct it well enough, you will find that you can write the rough draft by turning your facts into sentences. Be sure your introduction includes the thesis statement and that you have a topic sentence and at least 3 supporting details (or more) for each of the body paragraphs.

When you must construct an argumentative essay, follow a basic 5-paragraph outline, support your thesis with facts, and set everything up with a solid outline. Keeping the above secrets in mind will guide you to your next ‘A’.