Writing a discursive essay is an important skill for students, academic researchers, and practitioners who need to articulate balanced arguments on a topic. In contrast to persuasive essays, which take a firm position on a subject, discursive essays discuss multiple viewpoints, offering a robust discussion. This blog will focus on discursive essay structure, valuable discursive essay advice, could-be essay writing practices, and academic essay writing practices.

Understanding a Discursive Essay

A discursive essay can talk about the different perspectives or sides to an issue before inviting the reader to make their judgment. It is a common assignment in an academic setting to enhance critical thinking and argument writing. There are two types of discursive essays: 

1. Argumentative Discursive Essay – An argumentative discursive essay that discusses the various positions but generates a balanced argument that will help the reader make their conclusions, and
2. Opinion-Based Discursive Essay – An opinion-based discursive essay that expresses the writer's opinion and acknowledges other positions or perspectives (not too opposed) to their own.

Finally, discursive essays are a common assignment in higher institutions in part to exercise a certain yet generic/standard (e.g., academic writing).

Discursive Essay Structure

A discursive essay is expected to be written in a sensible and sequenced manner. The expectation is logical clarity or flow (i.e., intelligibility). A typical structure includes (e.g., introduction, body paragraph[s], conclusion.

Introduction

With the introduction of the discursive essay, the reader will be drawn into the essay by providing the reader with sufficient background on the topic and an idea or statement around the objective for the discursive essay.

The introductory section includes: 

(1) A hook to grab the reader's attention (e.g., a question, statistic, or anecdote); and 

(2) A brief (not too lengthy) introduction to the topic.

(3) A clear thesis statement stating the scope of discussion. 

(4) An indication of the different perspectives that will be discussed. 

Main Body

The body of the essay is divided into paragraphs each presenting a specific argument or perspective. Ensuring balance of discussion is important.

Paragraph 1: Presenting the First Argument

• The First Argument introduces the first perspective with supporting evidence. 
• Provide relevant examples and expert comments. 
• Explain why this is a valid perspective and how it fits into the debate overall.

Paragraph 2: Presenting the Counterargument

• Fairly discusses the opposing perspective. 
• Provide counter-evidence and critique. 
• Indicate the strengths and weaknesses of this argument.

Paragraph 3: Additional Perspective

• Introduces another relevant perspective and further evidence. 
• Demonstrate how this argument supersedes previous perspectives.

Paragraph 4: Evaluative Discussion

• Comparing and contrasting the arguments. 
• Weigh the strengths and weaknesses of each perspective. 
• Provide thoughtful analysis and an overview of arguments that may be more convincing than others. 

Conclusion

The conclusion rehashes the points being discussed in the essay while restating the thesis - new arguments should not be inserted in this section of the essay. Key aspects include:

• A recapping of the main points. 
• A reflection on the considerations of arguments. 
• A parting comment encouraging further thought.
• A suggestion for future study or a call to action regarding the topic.

Discursive Essay Tips

Writing an engaging discursive essay takes some planning and preparation. Here are some helpful tips:

Choose a Relevant Topic

Consider writing about a topic that is controversial and can inspire multiple perspectives. Controversial topics can include the following ideas: 

• Should the use of social media have restrictions? 
• Is climate change solely the fault of humans? 
• Should the death penalty be equitable across every state? 
• Is artificial intelligence a threat to jobs meant for humans?

Maintain a Neutral Tone

It is important for a discursive essay to establish and present all arguments without personal bias or emotional connections. Remain focused on your objectivity and academic language throughout and never make personal claims - instead, focus on the argument and defend and support with evidence.

Use Credible Sources

Support arguments by using credible evidence and scholarly articles, numbers, and expert opinions. Using research to support your argument only adds to your credibility. Utilize reputable sources to justify claims made within the essay.

Employ Logical Transitions

Utilise cohesive devices, especially when utilizing linking words such as however, moreover, and on the other hand. This will help maintain and support the logical flow of your writing.

Address Counterarguments

Considering opposing viewpoints is a sign of critical thought and makes the essay more credible. Provide reasonable counterarguments so that the reader understands you evaluated other perspectives.

Edit and Proofread

Edit the essay for grammar, clarity, and coherence while verifying that you are following proper academic essay writing standards. Proofreading corrects errors and checks that the essay reaches high academic standards.

Plan Before Writing

Think about the essay structure and plan or outline the essay before writing. This will assist in structuring arguments as you develop them to ensure your arguments flow logically.

Essay Writing Techniques for a Stronger Argument

Research Thoroughly

Before writing, conduct extensive research on the topic so you understand the various factors of the topic, including different opinions and available data. Use a variety of sources that allow you to develop a broad understanding of the issue.

Use Persuasive Language

Although you want to be neutral, include persuasive strategies such as rhetorical questions, analogies, or compelling evidence, etc. to make arguments more exciting and persuasive.

Adopt a Formal Structure

Follow the structure of a discursive essay precisely to make sure your distinct arguments are clear to the reader and followed logically. Follow the conventions of academic writing and refrain from informal writing.

Develop a Strong Thesis

An explicit thesis gives your writing purpose, makes the essay/informative writing process easier, and sets the tone for the thesis. A clear thesis should state the purpose of the paper and identify the main points to be discussed.

Avoid Logical Fallacies

Be factual when writing your arguments, and avoid using emotions and assumptions. Logic fallacies lead to weaker arguments, as well as lower credibility during an academic discussion.

Use Examples to Support Arguments

Support every argument with real-world examples, such as case studies and expert opinions. Examples strengthen arguments and provide context for theory-based discussions.

Academic Essay Writing Best Practices

Follow Citation Guidelines

Academic essays need to use correct citation styles (APA, MLA, Harvard, etc.) to verify sources and avoid plagiarism. Using correct citation styles increases credibility, as well as promote upholding academic integrity.

Maintain Clarity and Precision

Academic writing should avoid vagueness and ambiguous assumptions to argue own propositions. Keep writing brief and focus on information instead of the volume of descriptions. 

Use a Formal Tone

Academic essays require a formal and objective tone, without using the slang of colloquial speech. The writing should be articulate, clear, and direct, devoid of the writer's own bias. 

Structure Paragraphs Effectively

Each paragraph should narrow down arguments to a single idea, providing evidence and its logical rhetorical progression. The use of paragraph structure is a writing style similar to an outline that promotes overall readability in writing. 

Review and Revise

ReviseEven the most refined essays undergo multiple edits to reconsider arguments, clarify complexity, and correct any inadvertent errors. Make time to reconsider organization, edit and build good sentences, fix grammar errors, and clarify logical flow.

Seek Feedback

Before you submit a final draft, invite someone else to read your essay. Constructive feedback may help you see weaknesses and areas for improvement. 

Conclusion

The process of mastering discursive essays involves considering the structure and using style effectively, including a strong, academic tone. Following the structure of a discursive essay, applying discursive essay tips, engaging with essay writing techniques, and using the expectations of a purposeful academic essay contribute to writing a good, balanced discussion. Discursive essays are a focal point whether academic or professional writing, or experience stronger critical thinking skills and argumentation skills, which strengthen the argument as a tool for communicating. Anyone can learn to write a well-structured, thoughtful, discursive essay that may contribute some meaningful consideration in discussions or debates, with practice. Get essay help from experts.