There are some very specific ways that you should structure your argumentative research paper. The main purpose of this type of paper is to choose an interesting controversial topic. You will want to research the issue and choose a side that you feel is the correct side of the issue. Choose a topic that you are all in on and not one that you sit the fence on because it will help you write a more persuasive paper.
This type of paper has a very specific structure that you should follow. You can use these ten tips to help you understand what your paper should look like.
The introduction should be one or two paragraphs in length. The purpose of this paragraph is to state the claim that you have made about your topic. Which side did you choose?
You will then write a paragraph or two expressing any background information on the topic that is needed to understand the issue if you had never heard about it before. It is the foundation for what you will begin to prove.
The next paragraph will start to prove your argument. You should come up with at least three main reasons why you support your decision on the topic that you chose. You will present the first supporting piece of evidence.
The supporting paragraphs should start with a topic sentence that explains the main idea that you are using to prove you point. It should be followed by the reasoning behind why that information proves your statement.
You will need to include three pieces to each piece of evidence and at least two pieces of evidence for each supporting fact. The three pieces include an explanation, introduction, and statement.
Each idea needs to link to the next. You can’t just switch topics. Create a transitional sentence, word, or phrase to let you audience know that you are switching topics.
Be sure to include a counter argument paragraph that expresses the opposing view. This is a little different from the other types of papers that you have written but this is an essential part of this paper.
It is a paragraph or two expressing the view of the opposition with an exact reference to the facts that refute the claims that the opposition have made on the topic. You will present the opposing view and then remind them of your evidence that refutes the claim.
The final paragraph is your conclusion. It will wrap the paper up and restate the main points to get them to sink in one last time.
Make sure that you proofread and edit your paper to ensure that it is free of errors. You may have to read through it more than once.