Argumentative Essays: A Step-by-Step Guide

Publication Date: June 22, 2022
ISBN: 9781554815272 / 1554815274
16 pages; 6" x 9"

This brief spiral-bound booklet provides a portable, scannable, and simple guide to the basics of argumentative essay writing. Designed to complement in-depth classroom instruction, it serves as a portable resource that students can use on their own or in class for quick, step-by-step guidance on how to plan, research, write, and edit argumentative essays. Advice on avoiding plagiarism and documenting sources is included, along with up-to-date MLA and APA citation guidelines and a sample essay. Laminated for convenience and durability, the booklet is intended as a lasting reference tool that students can use throughout their academic studies. Additional resources, including an essay outline tool and grammar exercises, are provided on a free companion website.

Step 1: Get Started

Tips for Brainstorming and Pre-Writing

Step 2: Choose a Topic

Thesis Statements

Step 3: Conduct Research

Where to Find Sources
How to Assess Sources
Taking Notes

Step 4: Construct an Argument

Support Your Thesis
Counter-Arguments
Fallacies of Reasoning
Modes of Persuasion

Step 5: Sketch an Outline

Step 6: Create a First Draft

Audience
Parts of the Essay
Transitions
Integrate Sources

Step 7: Revise and Edit

Checklist: Content
Checklist: Mechanics

Sample Essay

Documenting Sources

• Simple but specific advice for planning, drafting, and revising argumentative essays
• Clear, step-by-step organization
• Current MLA and APA citation guide, including MLA 2021 updates
• Emphasis on common challenges for beginner students, including avoiding plagiarism, refining a thesis statement, and incorporating sources
• Additional resources, including an essay outline tool and grammar exercises, are provided on a free companion website
• Spiral-bound and laminated for convenience and durability

All purchasers of Argumentative Essays have access to free online resources, which include additional sample essays, a unique digital tool for argument construction, and further information on research, writing, and mechanics. The passcode is included in the booklet and in digital and print examination copies.