Discursive Essay

How to Write a Discursive Essay: Step-by-Step Guideline

A discursive essay is a form of academic writing that explores different perspectives on a particular topic. It is designed to discuss a subject in a balanced manner, presenting arguments for and against the issue, and sometimes providing your opinion. This guide will help you understand the structure of a discursive essay, how to develop your arguments, and how to present them effectively.

What is a Discursive Essay?

A discursive essay aims to provide a comprehensive overview of an issue, presenting different viewpoints and allowing the reader to form their own opinion. It differs from an argumentative essay, which takes a specific stance, and a persuasive essay, which seeks to convince the reader of a particular viewpoint. In a discursive essay, the writer explores various perspectives without necessarily supporting any of them.

Step-by-Step Guideline to Writing a Discursive Essay

1. Choose a Topic

Choosing the right topic is the first crucial step in writing a discursive essay. A good topic should be both interesting and debatable. It should have multiple viewpoints and be relevant to current issues or ongoing debates. Consider topics that are controversial and have enough material for research. Here are some examples:

• Should the death penalty be abolished?
• Is social media beneficial or harmful to society?
• Should school uniforms be mandatory?

When selecting your topic, think about what interests you and what you feel passionate about. This will make the research and writing process more engaging and enjoyable.

2. Research the Topic

Once you have chosen a topic, conduct thorough research to gather information and viewpoints from credible sources. This step is crucial because the quality of your research will directly impact the quality of your essay. Use a variety of sources, including books, academic journals, reputable websites, and news articles, to ensure a balanced view. Take notes and organize your research to make it easier to reference later.

During your research, be sure to:

• Understand the background and context of the topic.
• Identify key arguments for and against the issue.
• Gather evidence such as statistics, quotes, and examples to support each viewpoint.

3. Plan Your Essay

Before you start writing, create an outline to organize your thoughts. A typical discursive essay structure includes:

• Introduction: Present the topic and provide a brief overview of the different perspectives.
• Body Paragraphs: Discuss each viewpoint in separate paragraphs, providing evidence and examples.
• Conclusion: Summarize the main points and provide your opinion if required.

An outline will help you structure your essay logically and ensure that you cover all necessary points. It will also make the writing process smoother and more efficient.

4. Write the Introduction

The introduction is your opportunity to grab the reader’s attention and provide a clear overview of the topic. It should set the stage for the discussion that will follow. Include the following elements in your introduction:

• Hook: Start with a compelling sentence that draws the reader in. This could be a surprising fact, a quote, or a rhetorical question.
• Background Information: Provide some context about the topic to help the reader understand its significance.
• Thesis Statement: Clearly state the main points that will be discussed in the essay. This will guide the reader through your arguments.

Example: “Social media has revolutionized the way we communicate, but it has also raised concerns about its impact on society. This essay will explore the benefits and drawbacks of social media, examining its influence on communication, mental health, and privacy.”

5. Develop the Body Paragraphs

The body of your discursive essay is where you present different viewpoints on the topic. Each body paragraph should focus on a single viewpoint. Follow these steps for each paragraph:

• Topic Sentence: Introduce the main idea of the paragraph.
• Explanation: Explain the viewpoint in detail.
• Evidence: Provide evidence to support the viewpoint, such as statistics, quotes, and examples.
• Counterargument: Acknowledge opposing viewpoints to show a balanced discussion.

Make sure each paragraph flows logically to the next, maintaining coherence throughout the essay. Use transitional phrases and connectors to help the reader follow your arguments.

Example: “One of the primary benefits of social media is its ability to connect people across the globe. Platforms like Facebook and Twitter allow individuals to maintain relationships, share information, and collaborate on projects regardless of geographical barriers. However, critics argue that social media can also lead to a lack of face-to-face interactions and contribute to feelings of isolation.”

6. Write the Conclusion

The conclusion should summarize the key points discussed in the body paragraphs and provide a final perspective on the topic. It should not introduce new information but rather wrap up the discussion in a clear and concise manner. Include the following elements in your conclusion:

• Restate the Thesis: Reiterate the thesis statement in light of the arguments presented.
• Summarize Main Points: Briefly summarize the main viewpoints discussed in the essay.
• Provide Your Opinion: If required, provide your opinion on the topic. Make sure it is balanced and considers all viewpoints.
• Closing Statement: End with a thought-provoking statement or question to leave a lasting impression on the reader.

Example: “In conclusion, social media has both positive and negative impacts on society. While it fosters global connections and facilitates information sharing, it can also lead to privacy concerns and mental health issues. It is essential to strike a balance and use social media responsibly to maximize its benefits while mitigating its drawbacks.”

7. Proofread and Edit

After completing the essay, take the time to proofread and edit your work. This step is crucial to ensure that your essay is free of errors and flows smoothly. Check for:

• Grammar and Spelling Errors: Use grammar-checking tools and read your essay aloud to catch any mistakes.
• Clarity and Coherence: Make sure your ideas are clearly expressed and logically organized.
• Proper Citation of Sources: Ensure that all sources are properly cited according to the required citation style.
• Logical Flow and Structure: Check that each paragraph transitions smoothly to the next and that your arguments are presented logically.

Consider asking someone else to review your essay to get a fresh perspective. They may catch errors or suggest improvements that you might have missed.

Tips for Writing a Discursive Essay

• Stay Objective: Maintain an unbiased tone and present each viewpoint fairly. Avoid using emotional language or personal bias.
• Use Formal Language: Avoid slang and colloquialisms; use academic language that is appropriate for your audience.
• Be Concise: Clearly express your ideas without unnecessary repetition. Stick to the main points and avoid going off on tangents.
• Use Connectors: Employ transitional words and phrases to ensure a smooth flow between paragraphs. This helps the reader follow your arguments and understand the connections between different viewpoints.

Final Remarks

Writing a discursive essay requires careful planning, thorough research, and balanced presentation of different perspectives. By following this step-by-step guideline, you can craft a well-structured and compelling discursive essay that engages your readers and provides a comprehensive view of the topic. Remember to stay objective, use formal language, and present each viewpoint fairly to create a balanced discussion.

FAQs

Q: What are examples of discursive writing?
A: Examples of discursive writing include essays that explore multiple viewpoints on a topic without taking a definitive stance. This can include discussions on social issues like “The impact of social media on youth,” debates on political matters such as “The pros and cons of universal basic income,” or explorations of ethical dilemmas like “Should animal testing be banned?” In each case, the writer presents balanced arguments for and against the topic, allowing readers to form their own opinions.

Q: How do I start off a discursive essay?
A: To start a discursive essay, begin with an engaging hook to draw in the reader. This could be a surprising fact, a quote, or a rhetorical question related to the topic. Follow this with some background information to provide context for the discussion. Conclude your introduction with a clear thesis statement that outlines the main points you will discuss in your essay. This sets the stage for the balanced exploration of different viewpoints.

Q: What is the difference between a discursive and an argumentative essay?
A: The main difference between a discursive and an argumentative essay lies in their purpose and approach. A discursive essay explores various viewpoints on a topic in a balanced manner, presenting arguments for and against the issue without taking a specific stance. In contrast, an argumentative essay takes a clear position on a topic and aims to persuade the reader to agree with that viewpoint through logical reasoning and evidence.

Q: What is an example of a discursive essay topic?
A: An example of a discursive essay topic is “Should the death penalty be abolished?” This topic is suitable for a discursive essay because it has multiple viewpoints. You can explore arguments in favor of the death penalty, such as its potential deterrent effect on crime, as well as arguments against it, such as the risk of executing innocent people and ethical considerations. This allows for a balanced discussion that considers different perspectives on the issue.