The general aim of a discussion essay is not difficult to spot: it is perfectly reflected in the name. You’ll have to focus on a topic and consider it from different angles, usually, the opposing ones. Although this type of writing might be intimidating the first time one encounters it, basically, it’s quite simple. All you need to do to succeed is to follow the laws of common logic, stick to the structure and use our advice. Let’s dig in!
Choosing the Topic
In case the topic for a discussion essay is not assigned by your professor, you obviously are the one to face the challenge of choice. It is limited to four basic criteria: the topic has to be relevant to the subject the essay is assigned for, it has to be logical, provable and exciting personally for you. In addition to all that, the topic should be broad enough to dedicate research to and narrow enough to stay within the scope of a regular essay.
Off to a Good Start
Proper introduction for a discussion essay is crucial for success. You have to grab the audience’s attention, give background information on the issue and provide a strong thesis statement. To hit the targets you’ll need to mix three important elements: a powerful hook sentence, that will make readers gasp, cringe or smile; a couple of facts, shedding light on the subject matter and a thesis statement, that will directly answer the question: “what is the essay about?”. Got them all checked? Then you have yourself an awesome introduction.
Warning: your thesis statement may evolve in the process of research. That’s not a problem. Just make sure your arguments fit it after all.
To the Meat
The number of paragraphs in the main body of your essay will usually be defined by the particular prompt. The necessary minimum is 2. The first one is devoted to the argument in favor of the initial claim. The second has to contradict to the thesis statement.
Discussion essay is a piece of academic writing. Thus, you need to make sure your arguments are based not only on your personal experience. Although personal opinion might be involved, one has to seek backing from authorities in the field of studies. In some cases you’ll get a list of suggested literature, otherwise, look for the credible sources to build a solid main body for your work.
Bring It to a Close
Conclusion is arguably the simplest part of a discussion essay. Here you have to restate your thesis statement and demonstrate its transformation through the process of analysis. Since you’ve been working on a discussion essay, the conclusion is to wrap up all the points, mentioned in the main body. You could also encourage your reader to keep researching the issue and come up with their own conclusions. If the prompt requires to do so, you may point out your personal stance on the issue. Otherwise, congratulations! The first draft of your discussion essay is complete!
Final Thoughts
A discussion essay does require spending your time and energy on research, analysis of material and, obviously, writing. Nevertheless, with a bit of attention and diligence you’ll easily write yourself a really good one.
Here are some pro tips to really nail your discussion writing assignment.
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Working on your thesis statement and the arguments for the main body of your essay you’ll have to think of the readers of your piece. Consider them to be respected, yet close to you. This approach will help you choose strong, reasonable arguments and remain friendly and empathetic.
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Make sure the opposing claim from the main body addresses the same issue as the supporting one. That is the best way to demonstrate the coherence of your thoughts and ability to reflect critically on a given topic.
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Last, but not least: allocate your time wisely. Often one might get carried away by the research process and skip the editing part. Each of the stages is equally important, thus, you need to pay attention to get a great result in the end.
There you have it: a comprehensive guide to writing an excellent discussion essay. Pull up your strength, get ready to interesting discoveries and have fun with it!
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