Argumentative Essay Structure

Study Notes

Argumentative essays require a clear introduction, body, opposition, and conclusion.
Introductory Paragraph
- Start with a hook that draws the reader in.
- Provide a body sentence to expand on the hook.
- End with a strong thesis statement that outlines the essay's main argument.
- Every point in the body must relate back to the thesis statement.
Body Paragraphs
- Present supporting details to defend each argument made in the thesis statement.
- Use evidence like:
  - Published articles
  - Generalized facts from studies
  - Statistics and results from studies
  - Brief narratives from interviews
  - Quotations from authorities on the topic
Opposition Paragraph
- Address the opposing side's viewpoint on the argument.
- Present the counter-arguments and then refute them with evidence.
Conclusion Paragraph
- Summarize the main idea of the argument.
- Don't repeat the thesis statement verbatim, but refer back to it.
- Briefly summarize the claims and close the essay with a thought-provoking statement or rhetorical question.

The example outlines the argument that all college students should study abroad.
Introduction
- Hook: Learning outside the classroom is important.
- Thesis Statement: Studying abroad is crucial for undergraduate students, as it provides more learning than a regular semester.
Body
- Claim: Studying abroad increases graduate school acceptance rates.
- Evidence: 90% of students who studied abroad got into their first or second choice graduate program. (Source: IES Abroad)
- Claim: Studying abroad makes students more desirable job candidates.
- Evidence: 97% of students who study abroad find employment within 12 months of graduation. (Source: IES Abroad)
- Claim: Studying abroad broadens a student's worldview and makes them more successful in the workplace.
- Evidence: 25% of students who study abroad have higher starting salaries. (Source: IES Abroad)
Opposition
- Opposition: Studying abroad is expensive.
- Refutation: The cost of studying abroad is often comparable to the cost of a regular semester at the student's university, including tuition, housing, textbooks, transportation, and meals. (Source: Diversity Abroad)
Conclusion
- Summary: Studying abroad has long-term positive implications for academic and professional success, opening new opportunities.
- Closing Statement: Encourages readers to contact their university's study abroad center for more information.