Plan Your Essay

• 1). Draw a graphic organizer to help you map your ideas. In this case, a main idea organizer is helpful. Draw a box for your argument, or main idea, and then divide the space underneath it into at least three boxes for your supporting details.
  
  
• 2). Determine your argument or main idea. Summarize it into one sentence, if possible. For example, you could argue for or against uniforms for your school, or convince your community that cleaning up streets should be a priority for everyone. Whatever the opinion, you should believe in it. Write this argument at the top of the page.
  
  
• 3). List details to support the argument. A convincing argument should have at least three supporting details. Think of reasons why someone should agree with you. Try to put yourself in the readers' shoes and understand why they might hold a different opinion. It is easier to think of convincing reasons if you know why they might disagree with you. Your reasons should ideally be facts that can be proven. Write these reasons in the boxes underneath your main idea.
  
  

Write Your Essay

• 1). Write your first paragraph. Structure it around your main idea sentence. Set the tone for the rest of the essay. Will it be friendly and humorous, or will the subject matter require a serious tone? Start with a description of the problem or situation as it stands at the moment. End the paragraph with a sentence summarizing your argument for change.
  
  
• 2). Write a paragraph for each reason. Take each detail and form a sentence or two describing it. If you are using facts to support your argument, list specific numbers or examples to give credence to the information. If you can anticipate counterarguments, these paragraphs are a good place to point out the problems with the opposing view. Remember to stick to the facts and avoid a nasty tone toward those who hold those views.
  
  
• 3). Restate your argument at the end. Your last paragraph should sum up your main idea and make a final case for why the reader would want to agree with you.