What you'll learn
The argument essay asks you to take a defensible position on an idea and support it with evidence and reasoning. It rewards clear thinking, not a 'right' answer.
Build a defensible thesis
State a clear, arguable claim that responds directly to the prompt. Avoid restating the prompt or sitting on the fence — take a position you can defend (it can be nuanced/qualified).
Use strong evidence
Draw on knowledge, observation, reading, history, current events, or personal experience. Specific, relevant examples beat vague generalities. Aim for a range of well-chosen evidence rather than one example stretched thin.
Reasoning & commentary (the key to high scores)
Don't just present evidence — explain how it supports your claim. The 'so what' linking evidence to thesis is where most marks are won or lost. Each body paragraph should: make a sub-point, give evidence, then analyse why it proves your argument.
Structure
- Intro: brief context + a clear thesis/line of reasoning.
- Body: paragraphs each developing one reason with evidence + commentary.
- Consider a counterargument and refute or concede-and-qualify it — this shows sophistication.
- Conclusion: reinforce the argument's significance.
Sophistication (the extra point)
Earn it by: situating the argument in a broader context, exploring complexity/tension, addressing counterarguments convincingly, or a consistently strong style. It must be woven throughout, not tacked on.
Exam tips
- Spend a minute planning a position and 2–3 reasons before writing.
- Prioritise reasoning over piling up examples.
- Keep the thesis visible — every paragraph should serve it.
Common mistakes
- A vague or fence-sitting thesis.
- Evidence with no analysis (summary, not argument).
- A formulaic five-paragraph shell with no real reasoning.