A discursive essay might seem complicated, but with the right approach and structure, it becomes a powerful way to present a balanced discussion. This type of essay examines different viewpoints on a specific issue, allowing the author to analyze why a certain position might be valid, and why it could be flawed. The key to success lies in maintaining an objective tone and supporting each argument with evidence or examples.
A discursive essay is typically structured as follows: introduction, body paragraphs, and conclusion. In the introduction, provide some background on the topic and briefly outline the points you will cover in the paper. Each argument should be presented in its own paragraph, starting with the strongest one, followed by the counterpoint in subsequent paragraphs. To ensure a logical flow, use transition words to guide the reader through your reasoning.
Learning to write a discursive essay also helps to strengthen the skills of writing in general, and it also makes one have better critical thinking. This kind of academic writing can be learned by any student with practice and the skills of observing details.
What is a Discursive Essay?
A discursive essay refers to a kind of writing that investigates various aspects of an issue or a topic. This essay does not necessarily aim to advocate one side, but a more detailed investigation of the topic is offered, with emphasis on positive and negative aspects. It enables the author to exhaustively cover a subject in a well-balanced way and therefore provides readers with a good idea about what the author was writing about.
The main distinction between a discursive essay and a persuasive one is in the intent and the tone. A persuasive essay aims to persuade the audience to accept a certain opinion or make a given decision, whereas a discursive essay only represents the arguments on both sides of the question without urging the reader to a definite conclusion.
In discursive writing an essay, you will have to bring several points of view to the table, analyse them, and suggest a summary of the important points to make without going to the lobby to argue one-sidedly.
The Structure of a Discursive Essay
A discursive essay follows a well-defined structure to ensure clarity and organization. It typically consists of the following parts:
1. Introduction
In the introduction, you will establish the framework to base your discursive writing by presenting the theme and the goal of the essay. An introduction is expected to:
- Introduce the issue or the topic.
- Give a brief idea of why it is important.
- Write the Introduction to the essay, which will give a general idea of what will be argued in the body of the essay.
- Do not take an evident position regarding the subject (it will be carried out further in the essay).
2. Body Paragraphs
In a discursive essay, the body presents the points on two sides of the argument in unbiased and equal measure. In every paragraph, one should:
- Provide one side or side of the matter.
- Give examples or reasons as to why this opinion should be supported.
- Present an evaluation or discussion of the evidence.
- Pass painlessly to the following paragraph, where the contrary opinion can be aired.
The body segments ought to have one issue or argument, and they must tell why it is pertinent to the subject matter being discussed. One should not be impartial or one-sided in providing an argument; the purpose of a discursive essay is to provide an argument with a balanced and unbiased presentation of the point that is discussed.
3. Conclusion
The conclusion comprises the main issues mentioned in the body paragraphs restating the different opinions but taking no serious side. As opposed to providing an answer, the conclusion should:
- Summarize the points of the body.
- Stress the complexity of the matter.
- Recommend directions of future research or attention.
New arguments should not be presented at the end of the work, and the reader should not be persuaded to a certain stance. It is just one route of summing it all up and leaving the reader something to consider.
Discursive Essay vs. Persuasive Essay
Although the forms of discursive writing and persuasive essay writing bear several similarities, there are also differences between the two. The structure of a persuasive essay is based on making the reader believe in a particular opinion, and it is highly likely to use emotional factors, rhetorical questions, and even a call to action. Conversely, a discursive is less emotive, rather analytical, and gives an even impression of a topic.
Persuasive Essay Structure
- Introduction – It introduces the topic and makes a clear position.
- Body Paragraphs – These contain details that prove the point that the writer makes, and they usually touch on the emotion or logic.
- Conclusion – repeats the argument and argues for an action or transformation.
Conversely, a discursive essay gives both the arguments and does not need to sway the reader to a certain side of the point of view.
Tips for Writing a Discursive Essay
When handling a discursive essay, it becomes a complex task to write, but with the following guidelines, it is advisable to come up with a balanced, informative, and well-structured essay:
1. Research Thoroughly
Probably the best step in writing a discursive essay is the research process. You must be knowledgeable about various opinions around the subject of what you are writing about. The sources of information should be professional, i.e. the academic papers, books, and the trustful websites.
2. Present Both Sides
When writing in the discursive style, it is important to bring out both sides of the argument. Do not concentrate too much on one opinion, and be certain that opinions are equally treated. This demonstrates to the reader that you have taken into account every aspect and then come to some conclusions.
3. Maintain an Objective Tone
In a discursive essay, you need to be neutral and objective. Although you can have your views, you are supposed to give facts and leave the reader to make their own conclusion. Do not get emotional or biased in wording anything that can give any impression to the reader that you are partisan.
4. Use Clear Transitions
The flow of ideas and paragraphs will appear easier to follow because of smooth transitions between them. Make use of transitional expressions like on the other hand, in contrast, and more by using them between various perceptions and creating a coherent flow in the essay.
5. Stick to the Point
Be careful not to go off-topic. Every paragraph must concentrate on an aspect of the argument. Ensure that everything you write will complete your discussion and not burden your reader with information that is not relevant to that particular discussion.
Common Mistakes to Avoid in a Discursive Essay
Discursive essay writing is tricky, and sometimes, many mistakes are made by students. Avoid the following mistakes just to make sure your essay will be clear, concise, and well-balanced:
1. Taking a Strong Stance
Having a firm stand on the problem can be considered one of the most common mistakes in discursive essay. It is very important that in a discursive essay we have to remain unbiased and discuss the topic as many-sided as possible. Expressing a particular view makes the essay resemble persuasive to some extent, which is not the premise of discursive writing.
2. Ignoring Counterarguments
The other error is the inability to discuss contrary opinions. An effective discursive essay takes into consideration and pays attention to some counterarguments as a sign of a well-rounded picture. As long as you disregard these perspectives, your essay will be incomplete or one-sided.
3. Overcomplicating the Language
You can easily get trapped in the ratio of speaking too academically to show your knowledge. But discursive writing requires an element of clarity. Do not use jargon or use fancy sentences without any necessity. This is aimed at making the reader comprehend your arguments.
4. Not Following the Structure
The other mistake is the failure to adopt the appropriate essay structure. A discursive essay should include an introduction that presents a clear picture, body paragraphs that present each side of the issue, and a conclusion. Abandoning such paragraphs or a lack of structuring your essay logically may confuse the reader.
5. Lacking Evidence
An evidence-based discursive essay and not an opinion-based one. By not offering evidence to prove your points, you will hurt your argument, and it may result in a less-than-persuasive essay. Remember to support all your arguments with good sources and illustrations.
Conclusion
The development of a discursive essay is the practice that involves the demonstration of balanced arguments and the investigation of two sides of a problem. A solid essay, including all the necessary information, can be written by using a proper structure, by thoroughly researching the problem, and retaining an objective approach to the writing. Do not forget some usual conventions as making a strong stand or not listening to counterarguments. With training and proper preparation, you will be able to come up with a captivating discursive essay that will interest your reader and will prove to them that you are knowledgeable on the issue in question.
