When writing academically, students are often tasked with writing various types of essays, each serving different purposes. Two of the most common and often confusing types are discursive essays and argumentative essays. While both involve presenting arguments and supporting them with evidence, they differ significantly in structure and purpose. Understanding these differences is crucial for students who wish to write better, more effective essays.
The Key Differences Between Discursive and Argumentative Essays
The principal distinction between a discursive essay and an argumentative essay lies in their tone, structure, and goal. A discursive essay aims to present a topic from multiple perspectives, offering a fair and balanced analysis of both sides. In contrast, an argumentative essay seeks to persuade the reader to adopt a specific point of view using logical reasoning and evidence.
This blog will explore the definitions of both essay types, highlight their structural differences, and provide useful essay-writing tips to help you understand when and how to use each one.
What is a Discursive Essay?
A discursive essay is a type of writing that explores a topic by presenting multiple viewpoints. It aims to discuss an issue in a neutral, unbiased manner by considering both the advantages and disadvantages. Unlike argumentative essays, discursive essays do not take a stand but allow the reader to make their own conclusion based on the discussion presented.
A typical discursive essay includes an introduction, body paragraphs, and a conclusion. The introduction introduces the topic, the body discusses different perspectives on the issue, and the conclusion restates the arguments without favoring any one side.
Key Features of a Discursive Essay
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Neutral tone: The essay remains impartial, considering multiple sides of the issue.
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Balanced presentation: Both the pros and cons of a topic are discussed equally.
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Objective and formal writing: The tone is academic and unbiased.
What is an Argumentative Essay?
An argumentative essay, on the other hand, is designed to convince the reader to accept the writer’s specific point of view. This essay requires the writer to take a firm stance on the issue and provide evidence, arguments, and examples to support that position.
Structure of an Argumentative Essay
An argumentative essay typically follows a more structured format than a discursive essay. It begins with an introduction that presents the writer’s stance, followed by body paragraphs that support the position with evidence and logical reasoning. The conclusion reinforces the writer’s viewpoint and may even encourage the reader to take a specific action or adopt a particular belief.
Key Features of an Argumentative Essay
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Persuasive tone: The essay aims to convince the reader to agree with the writer’s perspective.
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Clear position: The writer takes a definite stand on the issue.
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Evidence-driven: Arguments are supported by facts, statistics, and expert opinions.
Key Differences Between Discursive and Argumentative Essays
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Purpose and Tone
A discursive essay examines an issue from multiple viewpoints and presents the information in an unbiased manner, leaving the reader to form their opinion. It is neutral and informative. In contrast, an argumentative essay seeks to persuade the reader to accept a particular opinion, and it is more assertive and persuasive essay. -
Structure and Organization
A discursive essay is flexible in structure, with each paragraph reflecting different perspectives. It ends with a neutral conclusion that does not take a side. An argumentative essay, however, is more rigid, with a clear introduction presenting a thesis, a body that supports the argument, and a conclusion reinforcing the writer’s position. -
Use of Evidence
In a discursive essay, evidence is used to present different sides of the argument, aiming to inform and educate the reader. In an argumentative essay, evidence is used to prove the writer’s position and persuade the reader to accept it.
When to Use a Discursive Essay
A discursive essay is useful when you want to explore a topic from various perspectives and give the reader a chance to make their own judgment. It is commonly used in academic settings where the goal is to critically review a subject without pushing a particular point of view.
When to Use an Argumentative Essay
An argumentative essay is appropriate when you need to persuade the reader to adopt your point of view or take a particular action. It is typically used in discussions that require convincing the reader to believe or do something based on logical arguments and evidence.
Essay Writing Tips for Students: Discursive vs. Argumentative
Understanding the differences between discursive and argumentative essays is key to writing effectively. Here are some writing tips for each essay type:
Tips for Writing a Discursive Essay
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Be neutral: Avoid expressing personal opinions. Present the facts and various points of view.
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Support an objective study: Consider both the strengths and weaknesses of all arguments.
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Use a formal writing style: Maintain a neutral and academic tone.
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Use transitional words: Help guide the reader smoothly from one perspective to another.
Tips for Writing an Argumentative Essay
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State your position clearly: Make your stance clear in the introduction.
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Provide logical arguments and evidence: Use facts, statistics, and expert opinions to support your viewpoint.
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Address counterarguments: Acknowledge opposing views and counter them with logical reasoning.
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Maintain a formal tone: Keep the writing professional and avoid emotional appeals.
Choosing Between a Discursive and an Argumentative Essay
When choosing between a discursive essay and an argumentative essay, consider the subject and the purpose of the essay. A discursive essay is best when you need to explore multiple viewpoints and allow the reader to form their own opinion. An argumentative essay should be used when you need to persuade the reader to agree with a specific viewpoint or take action.
Conclusion
In conclusion, while discursive and argumentative essays share some similarities, such as the use of evidence and structured arguments, they differ greatly in their purpose and approach. A discursive essay offers a balanced, unbiased discussion of a topic, whereas an argumentative essay aims to persuade the reader to accept a particular opinion. By understanding the key differences and applying the appropriate writing strategies, you can successfully craft essays that meet the specific requirements of each type.
