Developing an Argument Paper

While there are numerous approaches to developing a sound argument paper (sometimes referred to as a position paper), the following structure reflections one of the most common approaches.

Introduction

As with most papers, strong introductions in argument papers accomplish four tasks:

1. Hook Your Reader's Attention - There are a number of strategies that you can use to hook a reader's attention (quotes, anecdotes, interesting facts, questions, etc.); the key is to set the tone for the rest of the paper. Note that skillful writers use hooks to help them define their purpose and to demonstrate the relevance of their topics.

2. Define Your Purpose (Thesis) - Argument papers are not mysteries. While you may wait until later in the paper for state your thesis in a formal manner, your reader should have a clear understanding of your purpose in writing by the end of the introduction. Further, since you will take a position in your paper, this should also be evident to your reader. Do not try to lure a reader into your paper under the false pretense of neutrality; instead, present your position and persuade the reader with the content of your argument. In strong introductions, there should be a single sentence (often the last sentence before the preview) that states your purpose/position.

3. Demonstrate the Relevance/Importance of Your Topic - Answer the "so what?" question and, whenever possible, draw connections between your argument and the work or interests of your target audience or policy and practice issues that will affect then. By the end of the introduction, your readers should know why it is important for them to continue reading.

4. Present a Preview of the Rest of the Paper - This may not be necessary for shorter papers, but if you plan to write more than 2,000 words, you should take a moment to let your reader know what to expect through the rest of the paper (e.g. "In the rest of the paper, I will...").

Background and Context

One of the best ways to sabotage a potentially strong argument is to not situate that argument within its larger context. Of unique importance are philosophical, historical, social, cultural, and political considerations. Strong writers will use this section to set up the the following sections, especially their consideration of opposing arguments.

Definition of Terms

By definition of terms, I do not mean that you should simply list and define vocabulary terms here, though some terms may need to be defined. The more important task is to define the content and parameters of the question. What is the issue? What is at stake? What is the potential impact, and for whom?

Note that, when debating an adversary, this step of the process often degenerates to delimiting the question in such a way as to ensure that your argument wins - talented debaters can argue either side of most issues successfully simply by defining the terms to favor the selected position. This is not the purpose of this section for a strong argument paper. Instead, the goal is to define the terms of the argument honestly and realistically so that you can use your argument to influence policy and practice. Said another way, your goal should not be to defeat an adversary but to make the world a better place through improved policy and practice.

Statement and Support of One's Thesis

Begin this section of your paper with a formal statement of your thesis. Next, present a summary of your reasons for making this argument - this summary should serve as the structure for the rest of the paper with each reason becoming a subsection of this part of your paper. In what follows, you will break down each of your reasons and support them with facts, research, quotes, examples, etc.

Consideration of Opposing Arguments

Depending on the scope of your paper, this might be a stand alone section for your paper, or else you might integrate this content into the section above. In any case, it is vital that you consider the arguments of those who disagree with you. Consider questions such as the following:

• What are the strengths and weaknesses of opposing arguments?
• What research, data, and information will others use to support opposing arguments? How will they use this information?
• What assumptions do they make about the problem? About the world? What's missing?

As work through these questions, you need to refute the logic of opposing arguments as well as the research, data, quotes, anecdotes, etc. that others may use to support those arguments. Ultimately, you need to present to your reader a solid rationale for why your argument will translate into more effective policy and practice.

Conclusion

In your conclusion, you should summarize your key points as well as the reasons why your argument will translate into better policy and practice. Ideally, your conclusions should pull the entire paper together (if you opened your paper with an interesting quote, fact, question, etc., be sure to address it here) and then call your reader to take action in support of your argument.