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How to write a discursive essay: step-by-step guideline

Updated 30 Aug 2024

Many students struggle with discursive writing as it can be tricky. It’s hard to manage different opinions and create a well-organized argument, leaving learners feeling unsure. In this article, we want to make creating discursive essays less confusing by giving helpful tips. If you grasp the essential information and follow our advice, you can tackle the challenges of this essay style and learn how to express convincing and well-thought-out ideas. Come with us as we explore the basic dos and don’ts for making successful writing.

What is a discursive essay? 

This type of academic writing explores and presents various perspectives on a particular topic or issue. Unlike an argumentative essay, where the author takes a clear stance on the subject, discursive writing aims to provide a balanced and nuanced discussion of different viewpoints. What is the discursive essay meaning? The first word implies a conversation or discussion. So, the text encourages an exploration of diverse opinions and arguments.

This homework, commonly assigned in higher academia, serves various purposes:

• Students analyze diverse perspectives, fostering critical thinking as they weigh different viewpoints before forming a conclusion.
• Such essays involve thorough research, requiring students to synthesize information from various sources and present a comprehensive understanding of the topic.
• When struggling with how to write my essay for me, students develop their communication skills as they should express complex ideas clearly and coherently, creating smooth transitions between arguments.
• While not demanding a fixed stance, discursive papers require persuasive writing skills. The authors present each perspective convincingly, regardless of personal endorsement.
• Encouraging an appreciation for the issue’s complexity, the essays promote tolerance for diverse opinions.

In summary, these papers contribute to developing analytical, research, and communication skills, preparing students for nuanced engagement with complex topics in academic and professional settings.

What is the difference between discursive and argumentative essays?

While these documents may exhibit certain similarities, it’s crucial to underscore the notable distinctions that characterize them, delineating their unique objectives and methodologies. 

Discursive essays

• Objective presentation: A five paragraph essay of this type aims to provide a comprehensive discussion on a particular topic without necessarily taking a clear stance.
• Multiple perspectives: Writers explore different viewpoints, neutrally presenting arguments and counterarguments.
• Complexity: These essays often deal with complex issues, encouraging a nuanced understanding of the subject.
• Balanced tone and language: Such writing allows for a more open expression of different ideas using objective and formal language. 
• Flexible structure: These texts allow for a free-flowing topic analysis and may express numerous ideas in separate sections. 
• Conclusion: While a discursive essay example may express the writer's opinion, it doesn’t necessarily require a firm conclusion or a call to action.

Argumentative essays

• Clear stance: This type involves taking a specific position and defending it with strong, persuasive arguments.
• Focused argumentation: The primary goal is to convince the reader of the writer's position, providing compelling evidence and logical reasoning.
• Counterarguments: While an argumentative essay acknowledges opposing views, the focus is on refuting them to strengthen the writer’s position.
• Assertive tone: This type aims to present ideas from the writer’s perspective and convict the reader using evidence and reasoning.
• Rigid structure: These texts come with a clear structure with a distinct introduction, thesis statement, body paragraphs with arguments and reasoning, and a conclusion that highlights the author’s stance.
• Call to action or conclusion: Such papers often conclude with a clear summary of the arguments and may include a call to action or a statement of the writer’s position.

The key distinction lies in the intent: discursive texts foster a broader understanding by presenting multiple perspectives. At the same time, argumentative papers aim to persuade the reader to adopt a specific viewpoint through strong, focused arguments.

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Discursive writing types

When delving into discursive essay format, exploring three primary forms of writing is essential.

1. Opinion essay.

• In an opinion essay, your viewpoint on the discussed problem is crucial.
• State your opinion in the introduction, supported by examples and reasons.
• Present the opposing argument before the conclusion, explaining why you find it unconvincing.
• Summarize your important points in the conclusion.

2. Essay providing a solution to a problem.

• Focus on discussing an issue and proposing solutions.
• Introduce the issue at the beginning of the text.
• Detail possible solutions in separate body paragraphs.
• Summarize your opinion in the conclusion.

3. For and against essay.

• Write it as a debate with opposing opinions.
• Describe each viewpoint objectively, presenting facts.
• Set the stage for the problem in your discursive essay intro.
• Explore reasons, examples, and facts in the main body.
• Conclude with your opinion on the matter.

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Discursive essay structure

Discover a concise outline that will help structure your thoughts and arguments, allowing for a comprehensive and articulate presentation of your ideas.

The length of the discursive introduction example and the number of body paragraphs can vary based on the topic's complexity and the text's required length. Additionally, adjust the outline according to specific assignment guidelines or your personal preferences.

10 steps to create an essay

Many students wonder how to write a discursive essay. With the following guidelines, you can easily complete it as if you were one of the professional essay writers for hire. Look at these effective steps and create your outstanding text. 

1. Choose an appropriate topic:

• Select a topic that sparks interest and is debatable. Ensure it is suitable for discursive examples with multiple viewpoints.

2. Brainstorm your ideas:

• Gather information from various sources to understand different perspectives on the chosen topic.
• Take notes on key arguments, evidence, and counterarguments.

3. Develop a clear thesis:

• Formulate a thesis statement that outlines your main idea. This could include your stance on the topic or a commitment to exploring various viewpoints.

4. Create a discursive essay outline:

• Structure your text with an introduction, body paragraphs, and a conclusion.
• Outline the main points you want to cover in each section.

5. Write the introduction:

• Begin with a hook to grab the reader's attention.
• Provide background information on the topic.
• Clearly state your thesis or the purpose of the essay.

6. Create body paragraphs:

• Start each paragraph with a clear topic sentence.
• Present different perspectives on the topic in separate paragraphs.
• Support each perspective with relevant evidence and examples.
• Discuss the strengths and weaknesses of each viewpoint.
• Use smooth transitions between paragraphs.

7. Suggest counterarguments:

• Devote a section to acknowledging and addressing counterarguments.
• Refute or explain why you find certain counterarguments unconvincing.

8. Write the conclusion:

• Summarize the main points discussed in the body paragraphs.
• Restate your thesis or the overall purpose of the essay.
• Provide a concise discursive essay conclusion, highlighting the significance of the topic.

9. Proofread and revise:

• Review your work for clarity, coherence, and logical flow.
• Check for grammar, punctuation, and spelling errors.
• Ensure that your arguments are well-supported and effectively presented.

10. Finalize and submit:

• Make any necessary revisions based on feedback or additional insights.
• Ensure every discursive sentence in your paper meets specific requirements provided by your instructor.
• Submit your well-crafted document.

Following these steps will help you produce a well-organized and thought-provoking text that effectively explores and discusses the chosen topic.

Dos and don’ts when completing a discursive essay

If you want more useful writing tips, consider the dos and don’ts to create an impactful and compelling text.

• Thorough research: Do conduct extensive research on the topic to gather a diverse range of perspectives and solid evidence. It will strengthen your discursive thesis statement and demonstrate a comprehensive understanding of the subject.
• Clear structure: Do organize your essay with a clear introduction, body paragraphs that present different viewpoints, and a concise conclusion. Use a separate paragraph to introduce every point. This structure helps readers follow your argument effectively.
• Neutral tone: Do maintain a balanced tone and impersonal style throughout the essay. Avoid being overly emotional or biased, as the goal is to present a fair discussion of various perspectives.
• Critical analysis: Do critically analyze each perspective, highlighting strengths and weaknesses. Build your discursive thesis on trustworthy sources and make appropriate references following the rules of the required citation style. This showcases your critical thinking ability and contributes to a more nuanced discussion.
• Smooth transitions: Do use smooth transitions between paragraphs and arguments to create a cohesive flow. The use of linking phrases and words enhances the readability of your text and makes it easier for the reader to follow your line of reasoning.

Don’ts:

• Avoid biased language: Don’t use biased language or favor one perspective over another. Maintain an objective tone and present each viewpoint with equal consideration.
• Don’t oversimplify: Avoid oversimplifying complex issues. Acknowledge the nuances of the topic and provide a nuanced discussion that reflects a deep understanding of the subject matter.
• Steer clear of generalizations: Don’t make broad generalizations without supporting evidence. Ensure that relevant and credible sources back your arguments to strengthen your position.
• Don’t neglect counterarguments: Avoid neglecting counterarguments. Acknowledge opposing views and address them within your discursive essays. It adds credibility to your work and thoroughly examines the topic.
• Don’t be too personal : Avoid expressing your personal opinion too persistently, and don’t use examples from your individual experience. 
• Refrain from unsupported claims: Don’t make claims without supporting them with evidence. Substantiate your arguments with reliable sources and statistics with proper referencing to enhance the credibility of your document.

By adhering to these dos and don’ts, you’ll be better equipped to navigate the complexities of writing a discursive text and present a well-rounded and convincing discussion.

Final thoughts 

Mastering the art of writing a discursive essay is a valuable skill that equips students with critical thinking, research, and communication abilities. If your essay-writing journey is challenging, consider seeking assistance from EduBirdie, a trusted companion that guides students through the intricacies of these papers and helps them answer the question, “What is discursive writing?”. With our support, you can navigate the challenges of crafting a compelling and well-rounded discourse, ensuring success in your academic endeavors. Embrace the assistance of EduBirdie and elevate your writing experience to new heights.

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Written by Steven Robinson

Steven Robinson is an academic writing expert with a degree in English literature. His expertise, patient approach, and support empower students to express ideas clearly. On EduBirdie's blog, he provides valuable writing guides on essays, research papers, and other intriguing topics. Enjoys chess in free time.

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27 Writing and Formatting a Discursive Essay

The previous chapter describes a discursive essay as a form of critical essay that attempts to provide the reader with a balanced argument on a topic, supported by evidence. This chapter examines the structure in increased depth.

Organise your key claims and counter-claims

Consider how you want your reader to move through your arguments for and against your controlling ideas. When you write your essay outline sentence in the introduction, the controlling ideas should appear in the same order as they will be organised within the essay body. For example, in an essay about artificial intelligence, if the essay outline sentence states “This essay will argue how the influence of AI may impact the health, military, and industrial sectors of society and whether the benefits outweigh the negative ramifications on humanity’s future”, then the body paragraphs must follow the same sequence – health, military, and industrial sectors.

For each of these controlling ideas, there must be both a supportable claim and counter claim. As the outline sentence states, the essay will discuss “whether the benefits outweigh the negative ramifications on humanity’s future.” Therefore, both sides of the argument must be presented, both perspectives, in a nonbiased manner.

As you begin to write your essay outline, include your supportable claims and counter claims in the body paragraphs. Go as far as to note sources that may be used as supporting evidence. Do not forget to synthesize your academic sources. Synthesizing simply means combining. Instead of summarising main points from each text in turn, you combine the key ideas and findings of multiple sources to make an overall point. At its most basic level it involves looking at the similarities and differences between all your sources (this is examined in week 16 of TPP Academic English ).

Example Body Paragraph Outline

Note the focus here is on the non-bracketed sections of the paragraph.

Topic sentence and controlling idea: Artificial Intelligence [AI] (topic) within the medical industry (controlling idea – health) is still in the early stages of conception.

Claim: Application of AI in the health sector poses concerns (claim) regarding the use of this technology – Sources: Finlayson et al. (2018); Yanisky-Ravid & Hallisey (2019)

(Elaboration – more information about the claim)

(Evidence -academic research)

Counter claim: Despite these factors (indicates a contrasting idea) , the application of AI within the health sector , when used ethically, has (counter claim) the potential to revolutionize the future of health care – Sources: Topol (2019); Wahl et al. (2018)

Linking sentence: While application of AI within the health sector is significant to the future of humanity, so too is the impact of AI within the military.

NOTE: The topic and (singular) controlling idea are maintained throughout the paragraph. The linking sentence links AI to the next controlling idea – military use.

Once you have outlined your entire essay, including where you will use your academic sources, you are ready to write a draft discursive essay and flesh out your ideas. Remember that your reader has not done the same level of reading as you have on your chosen topic and be sure to walk them through your arguments step-by-step. Do not assume they understand the subtle connections between your assertions, evidence, and conclusions – make them obvious. Use good, clear signposting (see Chapter 20) and introduce your sources using reporting verbs (see Chapter 14). Remember good, clear, academic paragraph structure also (see Chapter 22).

Adhere to the Template and Formatting

Once at university you will not have your hand held through essay writing. There will most likely not be any time allocated in class to write or research. It is also unlikely that you will be provided with a template for assignment writing. Therefore, take every opportunity to learn the expected structures and formatting while preparing for future academic writing. It is your responsibility as a student to seek clarification from your teacher if there is something you do not understand.

While universities should provide model essays or assignments for students, often the instructions rely on prerequisite knowledge or assumed understanding of academic writing. Do not be afraid to ask questions. It is highly likely that other students in your class have similar questions and lack the initiative to come forward. Remember teachers/ tutors/ lecturers are there to teach and often they are a vastly untapped resource. Make an appointment or try to catch your teacher before or after class if it’s a quick question.

Formatting in APA 7th ed.

What many people do not know is that assignment formatting is aligned to the referencing style. Therefore, an assignment in MLA or Chicago style referencing will have different formatting to APA 7th ed. This is a question that needs to be answered by your lecturer, though below is a basic guide for formatting according to APA 7th edition and UQ College guidelines.

APA does not specify a single font or set of  fonts however it is recommended you use sans serif fonts such as 11-point Calibri, 11-point Arial (university assignments).

Title Page:

APA 7 instructions for formatting the title pages of  student papers   (high school, college, or university courses). The following should be double line-spaced and centered vertically, that is, it should sit in the middle of the title page. However, the title page information should be centered in the upper half of the page.

The entire paper should be double line-spaced, including the title page, abstract, and reference list.

Title page information: DO NOT include sub-headings on the title page and follow the order as set out.

Title of the Paper (a mix of upper and lowercase; any word four letters or more should begin with a capital. It should be written in bold font and not contain abbreviations)

Author’s Name (that’s you)

Student ID  (All assessments should include your eight / 8 digit student identification number, found on your ID card)

Class ID (every tutorial class has an allocated class line or number, please include this also)

Institutional Affiliation (UQ College)

Course number and name  (ENGL1002 Academic English)

Instructor name (Do not include titles such as Dr. or Prof.)

Assignment due date (Written in full – September 30, 2021)

Assignment Topic  (state the selected assignment topic)

Header and Footer

APA does not use anything in the footer, however the paper does need a header with a page number and a copy of your thesis statement.

On the title page you will have the phrase Running Header: (no quotation marks and followed by a semi-colon before your thesis statement. The thesis statement begins with a capital letter) followed by your title or, in the case of your discursive essay, the thesis statement . Technically, the running header should be no more than 50 characters, including letters, spaces,  and punctuation. Though in the case of the discursive essay, it is more important to your instructor / grader to have the thesis statement available to refer to on each page.

In the header and footer tab (click “Insert”, “edit header”) you can make the header on the first page different to the rest of the paper by checking the box that says “Different First Page.” In all headers that follow , you will not need the Running Header title, only the thesis statement . You can also decrease the Header margin from the top and use a smaller, less obtrusive, font – no smaller than 10 point font.

Running Header: The application of artificial intelligence is worrying to humanity and should be avoided, however there is a consensus that artificial intelligence promotes a promising future for humanity.

All following headers would only contain the thesis statement without the “Running Header” title.

You must also number each page, including the title page . In the header, tab to the far right , click the arrow on “Page Number” on the far left, then “Current Position” and finally, “Plain Number”. This will give you running page numbers, beginning on the title page. The number must appear in the top right-hand corner of the paper and must not include the word page or any abbreviation such as p.,  page 1 of.

Please note, these instructions are for Microsoft Word and your personal device may vary.

If you have questions regarding any aspect of your assignment, please do not hesitate to ask your teacher for assistance.

Showing no prejudice for or against something; impartial.

Academic Writing Skills Copyright © 2021 by Patricia Williamson is licensed under a Creative Commons Attribution-NonCommercial-ShareAlike 4.0 International License , except where otherwise noted.

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How to Write a Discursive Essay: Awesome Guide and Template

The term "discursive" comes from the Latin word "discursus," meaning to move around or traverse. A discursive essay reflects this by exploring multiple viewpoints and offering a thorough discussion on a specific topic.

In this article, our term paper writing service will define what a discursive essay is, distinguish it from an argumentative essay, provide practical tips on how to write one effectively, and examine essay examples to illustrate its structure and approach.

What Is a Discursive Essay

A discursive essay is a type of essay where you discuss a topic from various viewpoints. The goal is to provide a balanced analysis by exploring different perspectives. Your essay should present arguments on the topic, showing both sides to give a comprehensive view.

Features of discursive essays typically include:

• Thesis Statement: Clearly states your position or argument on the topic.
• Discussion of Perspectives: Examines different viewpoints or aspects of the issue.
• Evidence and Examples: Supports arguments with relevant evidence and examples.
• Counterarguments: Addresses opposing viewpoints to strengthen your position.
• Logical Organization: Structured to present arguments coherently and persuasively.

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How to Write a Discursive Essay

Writing a discursive essay involves examining a topic from different angles and presenting balanced viewpoints. Whether you're tackling a controversial issue or analyzing a complex subject, following these steps will help you craft a well-structured discursive essay.

1. Understand the Topic

Before you start writing, make sure you grasp the topic thoroughly. Identify key terms and concepts to clarify what you need to discuss. Consider the different aspects and perspectives related to the topic that you will explore in your essay.

2. Research and Gather Evidence

Research is crucial for a discursive essay. Gather information from reliable sources such as books, academic journals, and reputable websites. Collect evidence that supports various viewpoints on the topic. Note down quotes, statistics, and examples that you can use to strengthen your arguments.

3. Plan Your Structure

Organize your essay effectively to ensure clarity and coherence. Start with an introduction that states your thesis or main argument. Outline the main points or perspectives you will discuss in the body paragraphs. Each paragraph should focus on a different aspect or viewpoint, supported by evidence. Consider including a paragraph that addresses counterarguments to strengthen your position.

4. Write the Introduction

Begin your essay with a compelling introduction that grabs the reader's attention. Start with a hook or an intriguing fact related to the topic. Clearly state your thesis statement, which outlines your position on the issue and previews the main points you will discuss. The introduction sets the tone for your essay and provides a roadmap for what follows.

5. Develop the Body Paragraphs

The body of your essay should present a balanced discussion of the topic. Each paragraph should focus on a different perspective or argument. Start each paragraph with a clear topic sentence that introduces the main idea. Support your points with evidence, examples, and quotes from your research. Ensure smooth transitions between paragraphs to maintain the flow of your argument.

6. Conclude Effectively

Wrap up your essay with a strong conclusion that summarizes the main points and reinforces your thesis statement. Avoid introducing new information in the conclusion. Instead, reflect on the significance of your arguments and how they contribute to the broader understanding of the topic. End with a thought-provoking statement or a call to action, encouraging readers to consider the complexities of the issue.

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Discursive Guide Checklist

Discursive Essay Examples

Here, let’s take a look at our samples and see how different topics are discussed from different viewpoints in real discursive essays.

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Discursive Essay Topics

Here are a range of topics that encourage exploration of different perspectives and critical analysis. Choose a topic that interests you and allows for a balanced analysis of arguments and evidence.

• Should governments impose higher taxes on sugary drinks to combat obesity?
• Is homeschooling beneficial for children's education?
• Should the use of drones for military purposes be restricted?
• Should the legal drinking age be lowered or raised?
• Is online education as effective as traditional classroom learning?
• Should parents be held legally responsible for their children's actions?
• Is artificial intelligence a threat to human employment?
• Are video games a positive or negative influence on young people?
• Should the voting age be lowered to 16?
• Should schools teach mindfulness and meditation techniques?
• Is cultural diversity in the workplace beneficial for companies?
• Should prisoners have the right to vote?
• Is social media addiction a real problem?
• Should plastic packaging be replaced with eco-friendly alternatives?
• Is it ethical to clone animals for agricultural purposes?
• Should the government provide subsidies for electric vehicles?
• Is privacy more important than national security?
• Should school uniforms be mandatory?
• Is renewable energy the future of our planet?
• Should parents have access to their children's social media accounts?

By the way, we also have a great collection of narrative essay topics to inspire your creativity.

What is the Difference Between a Discursive and Argumentative Essay

Discursive essays and argumentative essays share similarities but have distinct differences in their approach and purpose. While both essay types involve critical thinking and analysis, the main difference lies in the writer's approach to the topic and the overall goal of the essay—whether it aims to explore and discuss multiple perspectives (discursive) or to argue for a specific viewpoint (argumentative). Here’s a more detailed look at how they differ:

Types of Discursive Essay

Before writing a discursive essay, keep in mind that they can be categorized into different types based on their specific purposes and structures. Here are some common types of discursive essays:

Opinion Essays:

• Purpose: Expressing and supporting personal opinions on a given topic.
• Structure: The essay presents the writer's viewpoint and provides supporting evidence, examples, and arguments. It may also address counterarguments to strengthen the overall discussion.

Problem-Solution Essays:

• Purpose: Identifying a specific problem and proposing effective solutions.
• Structure: The essay introduces the problem, discusses its causes and effects, and presents possible solutions. It often concludes with a recommendation or call to action.

Compare and Contrast Essays:

• Purpose: Analyzing similarities and differences between two or more perspectives, ideas, or approaches.
• Structure: The essay outlines the key points of each perspective, highlighting similarities and differences. A balanced analysis is provided to give the reader a comprehensive understanding.

Cause and Effect Essays:

• Purpose: Exploring the causes and effects of a particular phenomenon or issue.
• Structure: The essay identifies the primary causes and examines their effects or vice versa. It may delve into the chain of events and their implications.

Argumentative Essays:

• Purpose: Presenting a strong argument in favor of a specific viewpoint.
• Structure: The essay establishes a clear thesis statement, provides evidence and reasoning to support the argument, and addresses opposing views. It aims to persuade the reader to adopt the writer's perspective.

Pro-Con Essays:

• Purpose: Evaluating the pros and cons of a given issue.
• Structure: The essay presents the positive aspects (pros) and negative aspects (cons) of the topic. It aims to provide a balanced assessment and may conclude with a recommendation or a summary of the most compelling points.

Exploratory Essays:

• Purpose: Investigating and discussing a topic without necessarily advocating for a specific position.
• Structure: The essay explores various aspects of the topic, presenting different perspectives and allowing the reader to form their own conclusions. It often reflects a process of inquiry and discovery.

These types of discursive essays offer different approaches to presenting information, and the choice of type depends on the specific goals of the essay and the preferences of the writer.

Discursive Essay Format

Writing a discursive essay needs careful planning to make sure it’s clear and flows well while presenting different viewpoints on a topic. Here’s how to structure your discursive essay:

Introduction

• Start with an interesting opening sentence to catch the reader's attention. Give some background information on the topic to show why it’s important.
• Clearly state your main argument or position on the topic, and mention that you’ll be discussing different viewpoints.

"Should genetically modified foods be more strictly regulated for consumer safety? This question sparks debates among scientists, policymakers, and consumers alike. This essay explores the different perspectives on genetically modified organisms (GMOs) to give a complete view of the issues."

Body Paragraphs

• Begin each paragraph with a sentence that introduces a key point or perspective about GMOs.
• Present arguments, evidence, and examples to support each perspective. Consider the benefits, risks, and ethical issues around GMOs.
• Address possible objections or opposing viewpoints to show a balanced analysis.

"Supporters of GMOs argue that genetically engineered crops can help solve global food shortages by increasing crop yields and resistance to pests. For example, studies have shown that GMOs like insect-resistant corn have reduced the need for chemical pesticides, which benefits both farmers and the environment."

Counterarguments

• Recognize the counterarguments or concerns raised by opponents of GMOs.
• Provide reasoned responses or rebuttals to these counterarguments, acknowledging the complexity of the issue.

"However, critics of GMOs worry about potential long-term health effects and environmental impacts. They argue that there isn’t enough research to ensure the safety of eating genetically modified foods over long periods."

• Summarize the main points discussed in the essay about GMOs.
• Reinforce your thesis statement while considering the different arguments presented.
• Finish with a thought-provoking statement or suggest what should be considered for future research or policy decisions related to GMOs.

"In conclusion, the debate over genetically modified foods highlights the need to balance scientific innovation with public health and environmental concerns. While GMOs offer potential benefits for global food security, ongoing research and transparent regulation are essential to address uncertainties and ensure consumer safety."

Formatting Tips

• Use clear and straightforward language throughout the essay.
• Ensure smooth transitions between paragraphs to maintain the flow of ideas.
• Use headings and subheadings if they help organize different perspectives.
• Properly cite sources when referencing research findings, quotes, or statistics.

Remember, besides writing compositions, you’ll also need to do math homework , something we can assist you with right away.

Yays and Nays of Writing Discourse Essays

In learning how to write a discursive essay, certain do's and don'ts serve as guiding principles throughout the writing process. By adhering to these guidelines, writers can navigate the complexities of presenting arguments, counterarguments, and nuanced analyses, ensuring the essay resonates with clarity and persuasiveness.

Wrapping Up

Throughout this guide, you have acquired valuable insights into the art of crafting compelling arguments and presenting diverse perspectives. By delving into the nuances of topic selection, structuring, and incorporating evidence, you could hone your critical thinking skills and sharpen your ability to engage in informed discourse. 

This guide serves as a roadmap, offering not just a set of rules but a toolkit to empower students in their academic journey. As you embark on future writing endeavors, armed with the knowledge gained here, you can confidently navigate the challenges of constructing well-reasoned, balanced discursive essays that contribute meaningfully to academic discourse and foster a deeper understanding of complex issues. If you want to continue your academic learning journey right now, we suggest that you read about the IEEE format next.

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What is a Discursive Example?

What is the difference between a discursive and argumentative essay, what are the 2 types of discursive writing.

Daniel Parker

is a seasoned educational writer focusing on scholarship guidance, research papers, and various forms of academic essays including reflective and narrative essays. His expertise also extends to detailed case studies. A scholar with a background in English Literature and Education, Daniel’s work on EssayPro blog aims to support students in achieving academic excellence and securing scholarships. His hobbies include reading classic literature and participating in academic forums.

is an expert in nursing and healthcare, with a strong background in history, law, and literature. Holding advanced degrees in nursing and public health, his analytical approach and comprehensive knowledge help students navigate complex topics. On EssayPro blog, Adam provides insightful articles on everything from historical analysis to the intricacies of healthcare policies. In his downtime, he enjoys historical documentaries and volunteering at local clinics.

• Updated old sections including definition, outline, writing guide.
• Added new topics, examples, checklist, FAQs.
• Discursive writing - Discursive Writing - Higher English Revision. (n.d.). BBC Bitesize. https://www.bbc.co.uk/bitesize/guides/zpdwwmn/revision/1  
• Prepare for Exam Success: C1 Advanced self-access learning Writing Part 1 -the discursive essay Lesson summary. (n.d.). Retrieved June 28, 2024, from https://www.cambridgeenglish.org/Images/583526-c1-advanced-self-access-learning-writing-part-1-discursive-essay.pdf  
• Tomeu. (n.d.). Advanced C1.1: How to write a DISCURSIVE ESSAY. Advanced C1.1. Retrieved June 28, 2024, from https://englishadvanced2.blogspot.com/2013/10/speakout-advanced-p-25-examples-of.html  

Sussex Centre for Language Studies

The Academic Writing Guide (AWG) is designed to familiarise you with the process of writing a discursive essay. A discursive essay is a genre of writing that requires you to investigate a topic; collect, generate, and evaluate evidence; and establish a position on the topic in a concise manner. Once you have decided on your position your writing will be an attempt to persuade your reader that it is a reasonable one to take. The pages in this guide will present information and activities designed to help you develop the skill of argumentation, which as well as being the main feature of discursive writing, underpins every aspect of university study.

Before you begin working through the AWG and using the examples and activities to help you research and write your own discursive essay watch the interview with James, one of our former Foundation Year students, who worked through the AWG and is reflecting on his progress. Some of what James says may not make sense to you yet, but come back to it occasionally as your own research skills develop and see if your experience resembles his. As you listen, notice what James says about how his perspective on the learning process changed during the course of the Foundation Year.

Academic writing does not aim simply to describe (although describing will be part of the process). An essay that is too descriptive will receive a very low mark at university level. Similarly, an essay that takes a ‘balanced’ view and does little more that weigh up the pros and cons of each side of an argument is rarely appropriate for university-level study.

Your aim in writing a discursive essay is to persuade your reader that your position (your argument) is a valid one. It makes a claim about a topic and defends this claim with evidence. A discursive essay must therefore begin with a thesis or claim that is debatable. In other words, the thesis must be something that people could reasonably have differing opinions on. If your thesis is something that is generally agreed upon or accepted as fact then there is no reason to try to persuade your reader of its merits.

Argumentation – mass noun

2. A reason or set of reasons that you use for persuading other people to support your views, opinions, etc.

His main argument is stated in the opening paragraph.

Discursive writing

There is a lot of pre-writing work to do for a discursive essay. Before you can begin writing you need to:

Throughout the research and writing process you will submit a series of assessed tasks relating to this title. Each of the tasks is designed to support your writing development, and help you produce a well-argued discursive essay supported with appropriate academic evidence. Each submission carries a percentage of the overall marks for the portfolio, making it essential that you complete each one. The portfolio accounts for a large percentage of the overall marks for the two Academic Development modules (see module handbook).

At the start of each of the 3 Stages in the AWG you will be told what the aims and objectives are, as well as the different assessments you will have to complete for that Stage. You will also be told where to submit these assessments in Canvas (find details below and in the module handbook on your class Canvas site).

These voluntary, drop-in sessions offer you personalised support for your work with the Academic Writing Guide and all aspects of the Academic Development Module.

You don’t need an appointment for these sessions, just show up with any questions you have about the module or the AWG and the tutor will help you on a one-to-one basis. You are welcome to use the drop-in service as often as you like.

You can find information about the drop-in sessions on your Canvas site.

This resource will help you to develop your Academic Skills whilst at Sussex. It brings together all of the web resources, workshops and support that are available to you as a Sussex student. Academic Skills are essential to successful study; from time management and note making, all the way through to reference management and exam writing techniques. These skills will help you to fully engage with, and excel, in your studies. Use the navigation on the left side of the page to find the section you are after or use the search box in the header.

As you work through the Academic Writing Guide (AWG) you will create a range of documents that need to be saved as you go and then uploaded to an assessment point at the end of each stage.

As a Sussex student you can download Microsoft Office 365.

With Office 365 you can get Microsoft Office for your personally-owned computer and mobile device(s) at no cost, as well as access to online versions of Office products and 1TB of free cloud storage in OneDrive.

Remember you are not expected to have all these skills already - you will develop them throughout your time at Sussex.

Each Stage requires several hours of self-study to complete, and each Stage is assessed. You will have plenty of time to work through the 3 Stages, and at regular intervals will submit formal assessments that will be included in your assessed portfolio for the Academic Development module at the end of the year. After each submission your Academic Development tutor will give you feedback, which you will use to inform the process of developing your discursive essay further. Each assessed task carries a percentage of the overall marks for the portfolio, making it essential that you complete each one. The portfolio itself carries a large percentage of the overall marks for the Academic Development module.

You will find details about each of the assessments at relevant points in this Guide, and will need to pay close attention to them. Your Academic Development tutor will also be introducing and supporting the process in your Academic Development seminars.

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How to Write a Discursive Essay: Tips, Examples, and Structure

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Mastering the Art of Writing a Discursive Essay

Table of contents.

Introduction

Understanding Discursive Essays

Discursive essay writing tips, discursive essay structure, examples of discursive essays, picking the right discursive essay topics, discursive essay format, crafting a strong discursive essay outline, writing an effective discursive essay introduction, nailing the discursive essay conclusion.

Welcome to our comprehensive guide on how to write a discursive essay effectively. If you’re unfamiliar with this type of essay or want to improve your skills, you’ve come to the right place! This guide will cover How to Write a Discursive Essay , examples, and strategies to help you craft a compelling discursive essay.

Are you ready to master this art of writing ? This article will explain a discursive essay and explore various aspects such as writing tips, structure, examples, and format. So, let’s dive right in and unveil the key elements of an impressive discursive essay.

Before we delve into the nitty-gritty of writing a discursive essay , let’s take a moment to understand its nature and purpose. A discursive essay presents a balanced argument on a particular topic by exploring different perspectives. It requires the writer to consider different viewpoints, present evidence, and critically analyze the subject matter.

Writing a discursive essay can be challenging, but you can excel in this art form with the right approach. Here are some valuable tips that will help you write a discursive essay effectively:

• Choose an Engaging Topic: Select a topic that is interesting and relevant to your audience. This will make the essay more engaging and enjoyable to read.
• Thorough Research: Gather extensive information from reliable sources to support your arguments and counterarguments.
• Plan and Outline: Take the time to plan and create an outline before diving into the writing process. This will help you organize your thoughts and arguments effectively.
• Clear Introduction: Start with a concise introduction that provides context and grabs the reader’s attention. Clearly state your thesis or main argument.
• Well-structured Paragraphs: Divide your essay into paragraphs that focus on specific points. Each paragraph should present a new idea or support a previous one.
• Logical Flow: Maintain a logical flow using transitional words and phrases that connect your ideas and paragraphs smoothly.
• Balance Your Arguments: Ensure a balance in presenting the pros and cons of each perspective. This will demonstrate your fairness and critical thinking skills.
• Support with Evidence: Provide evidence, facts, and examples to support your claims and make your arguments more persuasive.
• Use Clear Language: Avoid jargon and overly complex language. Opt for clear, concise, and precise language that is easy for readers to comprehend.
• Proofread and Edit: Always revise, proofread, and edit your essay to ensure clarity, coherence, and proper grammar usage.

Following these tips, you’ll be well-equipped to write an impressive discursive essay that effectively presents your arguments and engages your readers.

A well-structured discursive essay enhances readability and ensures that your arguments are coherent. Here’s a suggested structure that you can follow:

• Hook the reader with an attention-grabbing statement or anecdote.
• Introduce the topic and provide background information.
• Present your thesis statement or main argument.
• Start each paragraph with a topic sentence introducing a new argument or perspective.
• Provide evidence, examples, and supporting details to justify your claims.
• Address counterarguments and present rebuttals, showing your ability to consider different viewpoints.
• Use transitional words to maintain a smooth flow between paragraphs.
• Summarize the main points discussed in the essay.
• Restate your thesis statement while considering the arguments presented.
• End with a thought-provoking statement or call to action.

By adhering to this structure, your discursive essay will be well-organized and easy for readers to follow.

To gain a better understanding of how discursive essays are written, let’s explore a couple of examples:

Example 1: The Impact of Social Media

Introduction: The growing influence of social media in society.

Main Body: Discussing the positive and negative aspects of social media on communication, mental health, privacy, and relationships.

Conclusion: Weighing the overall impact of social media and proposing ways to harness its strengths and mitigate its drawbacks.

Example 2: The Pros and Cons of School Uniforms

Introduction: Introducing the debate on school uniforms.

Main Body: Exploring the arguments supporting school uniforms (such as fostering discipline and equality) and arguments against them (such as limiting self-expression).

Conclusion: Evaluating the advantages and disadvantages of school uniforms and suggesting potential compromises.

These examples illustrate how discursive essays analyze various perspectives on a topic while maintaining a balanced approach.

Choosing an engaging and relevant topic is crucial to capturing your readers’ attention. Here are some popular discursive essay topics to consider:

• Is social media beneficial or detrimental to society?
• Should the death penalty be abolished worldwide?
• Are genetically modified organisms (GMOs) safe for consumption?
• Should recreational marijuana use be legalized?
• Are video games responsible for the rise in violence among youth?

When selecting a topic, ensure it is captivating, allows for multiple viewpoints, and is backed by sufficient research material.

While there is flexibility in formatting a discursive essay, adhering to a standard format enhances clarity and readability. Consider following this general format:

• Font type and size: Times New Roman, Arial, or Calibri with a 12-point font size.
• Line spacing: Double-spaced throughout the essay.
• Page margins: 1-inch margins on all sides.
• Title page: Include the essay title, your name, course name, instructor’s name, and submission date (if applicable).
• Header: Insert a header with your last name and page number (top-right corner).

A consistent format will make your essay more professional and easier to navigate.

Before writing your discursive essay, creating an outline that organizes your thoughts and arguments effectively is essential. Here’s a sample outline to help you get started:

I. Introduction

B. Background information

C. Thesis statement

II. Main Body

A. Argument 1

1. Supporting evidence

2. Examples

B. Argument 2

C. Argument 3

1 . Supporting evidence

2 . Examples

III. Counterarguments and Rebuttals

A. Counterargument 1

1 . Rebuttal evidence

B. Counterargument 2

C . Counterargument 3

IV. Conclusion

A. Summary of main points

B . Restating the thesis statement

C. Call to action or thought-provoking statement

By structuring your ideas in an outline, you’ll have a clear roadmap for your essay, ensuring that your arguments flow logically.

The introduction of your discursive essay plays a vital role in capturing your reader’s attention and setting the tone for the essay. Here’s how you can make your introduction compelling:

Start With an Engaging Hook: Begin with a captivating opening sentence, such as a surprising statistic, an intriguing question, or a compelling anecdote related to your topic.

Provide Necessary Background Information: Briefly explain the topic and its relevance to the reader.

Present Your Thesis Statement: Clearly state your main argument or thesis, which will guide your essay’s direction and focus.

You’ll establish a strong foundation for your discursive essay by crafting an engaging and informative introduction.

The conclusion of your discursive essay should effectively summarize your main points and leave a lasting impression on your readers. Here’s how you can achieve this:

Summarize the Main Points: Briefly recap the key arguments and perspectives discussed in the essay.

Restate Your Thesis Statement: Reiterate your main argument while considering the various perspectives.

Call to Action or Thought-Provoking Statement: End your essay with a compelling statement or encourage readers to explore the topic further, sparking discussion and reflection.

By crafting a powerful conclusion, you’ll leave a lasting impact on your readers, ensuring they walk away with a clear understanding of your essay’s message.

Congratulations! You’ve now comprehensively understood how to write a discursive essay effectively. Remember to choose an engaging topic, conduct thorough research, create a clear structure, and present balanced arguments while considering different perspectives. Following these guidelines and incorporating our tips, you’ll be well-equipped to craft a compelling discursive essay.

So, start writing your discursive essay following our comprehensive guide. Unlock your writing potential and captivate your readers with an impressive discursive essay that showcases your analytical skills and ability to present compelling arguments. Happy writing!

Frequently Asked Questions About “How to Write a Discursive Essay Effectively”

What is a discursive essay, and how does it differ from other types of essays.

A discursive essay explores a particular topic by presenting different perspectives and arguments. It differs from other essays, emphasizing balanced, unbiased discussion rather than a single, strong stance.

How should I choose a topic for my discursive essay?

Select a topic that allows for multiple viewpoints and has room for discussion. Controversial issues or topics with various opinions work well, providing ample material for exploration.

What is the typical structure of a discursive essay?

A discursive essay typically has an introduction, several body paragraphs, and a conclusion. The introduction sets the stage, the body paragraphs present different viewpoints, and the conclusion summarizes the key points and your stance.

Is it necessary to choose a side in a discursive essay?

While you don’t have to take a definite side, you should present a balanced view. However, some essay prompts may ask you to argue for or against a particular position.

How do I start the introduction of a discursive essay?

Begin with a hook to capture the reader’s attention, provide background information, and clearly state the issue you will discuss. End the introduction with a thesis statement that outlines your approach.

Should I use formal language in a discursive essay?

Yes, maintain a formal and objective tone. Avoid using first-person pronouns and aim for clarity and precision in your language.

How many viewpoints should I include in the body paragraphs?

Include at least two or three well-developed viewpoints. Ensure that each paragraph focuses on a specific aspect or argument related to the topic.

How do I transition between paragraphs in a discursive essay?

Use transitional phrases to move smoothly from one idea to the next. This helps maintain a logical flow and coherence in your essay.

Can I include personal opinions in a discursive essay?

While you can present your opinions, remaining objective and supporting your views with evidence is crucial. The emphasis should be on presenting a well-rounded discussion rather than expressing personal bias.

How do I conclude a discursive essay effectively?

Summarize the main points discussed in the body paragraphs, restate your thesis nuancedly, and offer a closing thought or call to action. Avoid introducing new information in the conclusion.

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How to write a Discursive Essay: Expert Guidelines Leading to Success

If you are in the process of obtaining an academic degree, working on writing assignments is an inherent part of your curriculum. Essays are some of the most popularly assigned types of writing that come in a variety of types. One of the most popular kinds is discursive essays. So, if you wonder how to write a discursive essay, this article is just the thing for you.

What Is Discursive Essay?

It is an essay that focuses on a specific problem, issue or controversy. Such essay can be formal or informal. This task is included in the academic curriculum of many students because it helps them showcase their writing, analytical, and interpretive skills. The characteristic feature of any discursive essay is its objectivity. When covering a particular topic, the writer should do it in a maximally objective and unbiased manner, thus providing the most accurate and relevant arguments. When writing a discursive essay, you need to avoid phrases like “I believe,” “I suggest,” “I opine,” etc. Instead, it is recommended to use the third-person perspective to make the essay sound objective. Writing a discursive essay requires working with peer-reviewed and credible academic sources to add value to arguments.

Keep in mind that, when writing discursive essay, it is recommendable to adhere to a calm tone of writing. Unlike in a persuasive essay, there is no need to provide strong arguments and sound convincing within the given topic. More so, you ought also to mind vocabulary usage, i.e. avoid colloquial language, slang, and other examples of informal language. If you want to excel in discursive essay writing, you can try to order an essay from WeWriteOnline.com or devote sufficient time to learning the main principles and guidelines on how to write a discursive essay on your own.

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There are three types of discursive essays.

• For and against essay. In such an essay, you need to discuss a controversial topic providing solid reasons for and against it. Before finalizing your essay, you need to state your personal opinion by giving your preference to one position;
• Opinion essay. This essay requires stating your opinion on a specific topic and proving it with solid arguments. When writing such an essay, the writer should also state the opposing viewpoint and explain why it is wrong;
• A solution essay. Such an essay informs the reader about a problem and suggests a solution to this problem based on an in-depth investigation.

How to Write a Discursive Essay: Paper Structure

To write a successful and effective discursive essay, you need to maintain a proper structure. Specifically, this essay is to have a clear introduction, well-developed body paragraphs, and a conclusion. To make sure that you follow the structure in a proper way and do not deviate from the plan, it is recommendable to write a discursive essay outline. The most important part of the essay is the main body, which ought adequately to discuss the main aspects of the topic and include supportive evidence and examples. The ideas presented in the main body have to be coherent and related to the thesis statement.

On the whole, discursive essay structure is similar to that of other essay types. As you have already noticed, it has all the main elements, i.e. the introduction, body paragraphs, and the conclusion. The only thing that is essential to remember about the discursive essay format is that it presents viewpoints on the topic in a specific way so that the main opinion is agreed on by the target audience by the time the conclusion is reached. Thus, one needs to be acquainted with the rhetorical strategies of presenting viewpoints and effectively communicating ideas across. Still, there are some basic rules that can help you succeed in discursive paper writing, so check them out below.

Writing an Introduction: How to Start a Discursive Essay?

You may think that an introduction is merely a short part of the essay, so it does not bear much importance. However, it really does as it serves to be the opening paragraph that appeals to the audiences and catches their attention. Also, the role of the introduction is to help readers get familiar with the topic and its background. So, you need to learn how to fit the most essential basic information into a brief paragraph. When writing a discursive essay, you have also to focus on the significance of the issue and pinpoint to how the problem or topic is relevant.

Body Paragraphs: Convey the Arguments

How to write a discursive essay main body? Once you have composed the introduction that provides background information on your topic, it is high time to develop the very topic throughout the body paragraphs. If you do not know how to structure and develop the body paragraphs, you may take a look at an example of a discursive essay and get acquainted with the way of essay organization.

First, write an opening paragraph that contains more summative information or the author’s general opinion on the topic. Second, pay ample attention to the development of arguments and counterarguments. Make sure that each separate point is to be written from a new paragraph. It is crucial to start each body paragraph with a topic sentence so that it is clear to your readers what ideas you plan to discuss. When developing ideas, make sure that you rely on credible and up-to-date sources, i.e. journal articles, peer-reviewed sources, statistical and numerical data, and other trustworthy supporting evidence.

If you encounter problems developing arguments, get discursive essay help from expert writers.

Writing a Conclusion: How to Summarize Your Thoughts

To wrap up your discursive essay, you need to write an effective conclusion. While the introduction makes a first impression on the reader, the conclusion provides a lasting impression, so it is also really important. To conclude the essay, you need to frame the main issues, sum up the underlying ideas, and provide a personal opinion on the topic, if needed. It is crucial to consider that you ought not to introduce any new ideas but simply reiterate the analyzed ones. What is more, the purpose of the conclusive paragraph is to provide a call for further discussions or future research. Nonetheless, take into account that any assumptions or predictions you make is to be relevant to the topic.

Present your subject. Provide some information about the situation in your region. Identify the factors that could cause such a situation. Follow the example given below:

Crimes are one of the most essential problems…

Recently, crimes have been increased/decreased.

Among the typical crimes are …

The terrible thing is that there is a rise in…

The decisive factor in this is the level of unemployment which…

One more reason for this is …

Notice: If you support a particular point of view, you need to present the opposing opinion first. On the contrary, you should do everything vice versa if you deny a certain statement.

Paragraph II: Supporting arguments

Explain why you adopt this position. Set out convincing reasons. Give good examples and present concrete facts.

Paragraph III: Opposing arguments

State the reasons for supporting this viewpoint. Site vivid examples and provide strong arguments.

Paragraph IV: Summarizing section

In this unit, you need to show your attitude towards the discussed question. You can use the following phrases:

To my mind…, As for me…, I find it….

Stylistic Peculiarities

When producing a discursive essay, it is necessary to present different points of view on the addressed matter. Therefore, your work will sound more objective. However, in the concluding unit, you need to present only your own viewpoint. During the course of writing, you should use the passive constructions, transition words (e.g. nevertheless, additionally, hence, etc.), and other grammar structures.

Presenting facts:

Someone thinks that it is necessary to bring back severe sentences.

Some British people support the American “Three strikes” laws.

Additionally, some people think that prisoners live in very good conditions.

Particular arguments are provided in favor of imposing the death penalty again.

Perhaps it is necessary to take the opinion of the victim’s relatives into consideration.

There are some counterarguments to handing out capital punishment and heavier sentences.

One of the facts in support of shorter imprisonment is that the prisons are overcrowded.

There are some people who think that prisons can improve criminals’ behavior.

Additionally, it is thought that capital punishment is considered judicial murder.

It is also stated that there may be cases when innocent people may suffer from the wrong verdicts.

Moreover, a death penalty is regarded as an infringement of human rights.

Providing examples, arguments, and facts:

A number of people think that keeping the most violent criminals in prisons for a long time is one of the advantages of severe sentences.

One more benefit is that people could feel greater safety.

As a result, the number of crimes committed by a small group of people could be eliminated.

For instance, a lot of crimes are carried out by former prisoners.

There are still some people who think that harsher sentences may cause a lot of disadvantages. The thing is that it would be harder for prisoners to live in society again.

According to the conducted research&hellip.

Analyzing statistical data

Building a Vocabulary

Types of crimes and punishment:

Crimes: murder – murderer, shoplifting – shoplifter, burglary – burglar, rape – rapist, to commit a crime, to be given a severe sentence, to be arrested, to be let off with a fine, to consider the desires of victims, to be let out of prison, to bring back capital punishment, etc.

Legislative issues: the courts, judicial/legal system, judges, judicial mistakes, law, etc.

Cause / Result Connection:

There was an increase in drug consumption that resulted in the rise in the number of crimes.

The number of dangerous crimes has increased because of heavy drug consumption.

The rise of dangerous crimes can be explained by increasing drug consumption.

The drug consumption boosted. It resulted in the growth of crimes.

Due to the increase in the consumption of drugs, there was a rise in serious crimes.

The growth of serious crimes is the result of growing drug consumption.

It is said that today’s prisons can be compared to five-star hotels because huge sums of money were spent on them.

Prisoners should be reformed so that they are able to come back and live in society.

Significant reforms should be introduced to bring prisoners back to life in society.

As / Like Issues:

The article was amazing as it was about the arrest of a group of criminals (“as” = “because”)

His brother works as a prison officer (“works as” means “is”)

Capital punishment is like any other type of murder (“like” equals “the same as”)

People treated him as a violent criminal (“as” stands for “in the same way as”)

It is because of several reasons, like unemployment and terrible living conditions (“like’ is used instead of “for instance”)

The reason for that is such problems as unemployment and terrible living conditions (“such as” means “for example”)

It is not as hard as it is thought (comparison).

How to Write a Discursive Essay?

If you question yourself how to write a discursive essay, keep in mind that it is a type of writing that researches a controversial topic in depth. The essay may make emphasis on exploring either for & against aspect or identify and analyze the pros and cons. Whatever approach you choose, consider that you have to provide a well-balanced argument and only after that share your personal opinion.

At the same time, keep in mind that a discursive paper is not written in a debate-like form. Your main aim ought not to be to convince your readers but rather to investigate the given topic from multiple perspectives.

Tips on How to Write a Discursive Essay Step-by-Step

• Select discursive essay topics you are passionate about. The very first step is to choose a topic for your paper unless your professor has not assigned one to you. After picking the topic, you will have to decide on the position regarding it. So, after you choose a certain controversial issue, make sure you have a clear opinion on it and then start developing a plan or an outline.
• Research the topic. To make your essay convincing and strong, research the topic in-depth. Use credible and trustworthy sources from peer-reviewed journals. Make sure you are familiar with the background of the topic. Try to provide supporting evidence for both arguments and counter-arguments.
• Compose the introduction. Start with a brief and succinct introduction that conveys the main purpose and essence of your essay. Appeal to the reader’s interests and try to catch their attention from the very first sentences.
• Convey arguments and counter-arguments throughout body paragraphs. Present all arguments thoroughly and in detail. Use supporting evidence and try to be as objective and fair as possible.
• Write the conclusion. Reiterate the thesis statement and the main issues of the paper. Highlight the most essential parts of the discussion. Do not provide any new ideas in this paragraph.
• Proofread and edit the content upon paper completion. Before submitting the paper, edit and proofread it carefully. Make sure there are no major flaws and errors as well as petty mistakes.

Check Your Paper

• Content: Is your essay constructed logically?
• Transitions: Have you used transition words and phrases? Is it possible to add more linking words to make smooth transitions between the sentences?
• Writing Style: Make sure that your work is written in formal language. Provide your personal opinion in the concluding paragraph only.
• Grammar and spelling: Check the paper for grammar and spelling mistakes.

Creative Topics for Discursive Essay Writing

If you still wonder how to write a discursive essay successfully, you may look through samples. They may also come in handy for you if you hesitate as to what topic to choose. Our experts have come up with multiple engaging topics that you may like. Check them out below:

• The fast-changing image of the contemporary family.
• Political equality within the society.
• Criminal history within the realm of employment opportunities: investigate advantages and disadvantages.
• Analyze the pros and cons of improving educational standards by means of increasing salaries for teachers.
• Advantages one can derive from taking yoga classes.
• Ways of assisting children tackle anxiety.
• Causes for teenagers becoming rebellious.
• Advantages of eating organic products.
• Prospects of getting home education.
• Is there a need for war: discuss for and against reasons.
• Relationship between the societal ethical standards and religious principles.
• Are looks that much important in a long-term relationship?
• How can a person find his or her true self?
• Do people greatly depend on their gadgets and smart phones?
• Should marijuana be legalized?
• How can you define a hero?
• The role of piercings and tattoos in self-expression.
• Advantages and disadvantages of obtaining a career in acting or nursing.
• How do advertisement and media propaganda form people’s opinions?
• Counter-culture movements and their role in spreading social change across.

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How to Write a Discursive Essay: Structure & Tips

Effective communication is a cornerstone of academic success, and mastering discursive essays is a crucial step in this journey. Essays for your English class, like discursive essays, are not just academic exercises but opportunities to enhance your analytical and persuasive skills.

In this guide, we’ll explore the intricacies of crafting compelling discursive essays, providing insights and practical tips to help you navigate how to write a discursive essay successfully. Let’s embark on the journey of honing your ability to present balanced viewpoints and articulate your thoughts with clarity and precision.

What is a Discursive Essay?

Discursive essays are versatile, allowing you to argue for or against a topic or present a balanced view. These essays, integral to English classes, foster critical thinking by exploring various perspectives. They come in different forms, such as opinion essays, for and against essays, or essays proposing solutions to problems. Understanding the nature and purpose of discursive essays is crucial for excelling in your English class.

Discursive Essay Structure

The structure of a discursive essay is straightforward but essential. It has a snappy introduction, persuasive body paragraph and a cohesive conclusion.

In the introduction, set the stage by clearly stating your stance or indicating a balanced view. The body paragraphs are the core, where arguments are built, each paragraph dedicated to a specific aspect of the topic. Finally, the conclusion summarises key points and may include your final position. This structure ensures coherence and clarity.

How to Write an Introduction for a Discursive Essay

The introduction is your chance to captivate readers. Avoid cliches and generalisations; instead, consider opening with a thought-provoking question, a relevant quote, or a surprising statistic.

For example, if your essay is on the impact of technology on education, you might start with, “In an era dominated by screens, is traditional education becoming obsolete?”

Clearly state your stance or intention to present a balanced view.

For instance, “In this essay, we will explore both sides of the debate regarding the influence of technology on education, ultimately arriving at a nuanced perspective.”

How to Write the Body for a Discursive Essay

The body is where your arguments unfold. Divide it into paragraphs, each focused on a specific point. Provide evidence from reputable sources to support your claims. To maintain a smooth transition between paragraphs, use connectives like ‘equally,’ ‘similarly,’ or ‘on the contrary.’ If you’re discussing the positive impact of technology on education, a transition could be, “Similarly, the accessibility of online resources has revolutionised the learning experience.”

How to Write a Conclusion for a Discursive Essay

The conclusion is not a mere repetition but a synthesis of your main findings. Recap key points and, depending on the essay type, state your final position. Express your personal opinion logically, aligning it with the evidence presented in the body. For example, “While technology offers unprecedented opportunities, a balanced approach that preserves the essence of traditional education is vital.”

Discursive Essay Writing Tips

• Utilise connectives: Use words like ‘however,’ ‘in contrast,’ or ‘conversely’ for smooth transitions between opposing viewpoints. For instance, “While some argue for the benefits of online learning, others vehemently oppose it. However, a nuanced perspective considers both sides.”
• Formal language: Maintain a formal tone. Avoid colloquial expressions; instead, opt for academic language. For instance, replace “kids” with “children” and “a lot” with “numerous.”
• Persuasive techniques: Experiment with persuasive writing techniques. For instance, if discussing environmental issues, use vivid imagery like “the lush greenery replaced by concrete jungles” to evoke a strong visual impact.

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For personalised guidance and support in mastering discursive essays, consider reaching out to A Team Tuition. Our English academic personal trainers offer valuable insights and assistance tailored to your specific needs.

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Remember, mastering discursive essays is not just about academic achievement; it’s a lifelong skill that enhances your ability to think critically and communicate effectively. Take the first step toward academic excellence – contact A Team Tuition to schedule your first session and unlock your full potential. Happy writing!

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How to Write a Discursive Essay – Guide with Examples

Published by Grace Graffin at March 28th, 2022 , Revised On July 26, 2023

What is a Discursive Essay?

You can see the word ‘discursive’ is close to the word ‘discourse’; in short, it means involving discussion. “In a discursive essay, you explore the discussion and perspectives surrounding a topic. Then proceeding with reason and argument, you reach a conclusion in which you may or may not agree with one of the perspectives you have presented.”

What is Discussed in a Discursive Essay?

Example: The discursive essay discusses ideas and opinions on a topic without the aim of persuading the reader to take a given view. It is your unbiased presenting of differing viewpoints that allows the reader to decide which is best. This allows you to present the topic from several viewpoints, showing the pros and cons of them all.

During the Renaissance, discursive essays were quite popular, though they have become much less so over time. Many consider the discursive essay to be one of the more difficult to approach. As such, many students struggle with them, and it is quite common to seek essay writing assistance .

What is the Purpose of a Discursive Essay?

The purpose of a discursive essay is to show that there are different and often competing viewpoints around a subject. The subject often raises a controversy or describes a problem requiring a solution. As such, discursive essay assignments are often used when comparing subjective opinions on literary works. Discursive essays highlight different opinions and arguments but do not argue either way.

Do Discursive Essays Offer Solutions to Problems?

It is not the author’s job to solve a problem. The problem could be a long-running one with no solution in sight. For example, in a discursive text, you do not examine a problem or literary text; instead, you discuss the opposing ideas and opinions surrounding them. These essays benefit readers by presenting a collection of various views on a subject all in one place, saving them from doing the research themselves.

What is the Author’s Role in a Discursive Essay?

Apart from creating the essay, the author’s role is minimal. That is, the essay should not be a personal opinion piece. The author stands in the centre of the ongoing debate, selects some of the best arguments and presents them to the reader. In this way, the author is more like a facilitator providing a clear view of the arguments surrounding the topic .

Should the Author Give an Opinion?

The role requires the author to stay mostly neutral, but it is acceptable for authors to take a stance. Whether you include your own stance in the essay is either up to you or your tutor. There is no rule that says you have to. You can clarify where you stand early in the essay, or you can wait until the conclusion.

Present Others’ Views Fairly

You should present the views of others in the best possible light; showing balance between the arguments is essential. When presenting others’ viewpoints, you should not try to prejudice readers or persuade them your view is best. This is not an argumentative essay .

How Does a Discursive Essay Differ from an Argumentative Essay?

When to Write a Discursive Essay

Your coursework may require a discursive essay in order to test your ability to find and presenting balanced evidence without bias. In this assignment, you need to make a balanced examination of arguments surrounding a topic, with the option of stating your own position. You are not attempting to settle the debate, only to show the thinking that surrounds it.

How do I Know if I Should Write a Discursive Essay?

Your tutor might not directly say ‘write a discursive essay’ but the essay question will give you a clue. It might be a relatively simple question, or it could just state that there is disagreement on a topic . It will not ask you to give your opinion or direct you to persuade your readers. Your essay is part of a study course, so there will be enough guidance from your tutors.

Here are some title examples that would be best discussed in discursive essays.

• Is modern technology good or bad?
• The effects of social media on today’s youth.
• Should children under the age of ten be given mobile phones?
• Should cigarettes be banned worldwide?
• The positive and negative effects of water fluoridation.
• Should governments subsidise healthy food and tax junk food?
• Arranged marriages last longer than free-choice marriages.
• Are educational standards declining?
• How Harmful is cyberbullying?
• Should gene editing and ‘designer babies’ be allowed?
• Should the minimum age for driving a car be raised to 20?
• Has the death penalty been proven as a failure or a success?
• Does Google have too much power?

Types of Discursive Essays

There are three main types of discursive essays:

• The opinion essay requires the author’s opinion on the issue. It should be clearly presented and supported with reason and evidence; it should also contain an opposing argument. The writer should explain why the counterargument is not convincing.
• The for-and-against essay should provide readers with a good debate on the subject, aided by the opposing points of view. The main body should provide examples with sound reasoning to support claims. This should be an objective piece, as its purpose is to bring the information to the reader to make a decision.
• Essays suggesting a solution to a problem should discuss the stated problem and find the main solution(s) that have been suggested. The introduction defines the problem, its causes and the consequences. The main body offers some suggestions for a possible solution to the problem and the possible consequences that can be anticipated from this solution.

Approaching a Discursive Essay

Before you do anything, read the essay question/prompt several times; let it sink in. All the work you undertake will be based on this. If you study remotely and receive the essay prompt digitally, copy it onto paper to make it real. Highlight key words and make sure you thoroughly understand what you are expected to write. Are you being asked to analyse , discuss , or explain something? These keywords are important to understand.

Steps Towards Creating your Essay

Before you even write the first line of the introduction, you have to carry out research. Trying to write an essay before doing research is like polishing a car before washing it. Researching is a way of learning about the subject while gathering and filtering information, forming the backbone of your coursework. The research you carry out should look into the subject and more importantly, also investigate the broad range of opinions and evidence surrounding it. Your research should not focus solely on the argument you favour but should cover other views equally.

How Many Viewpoints to Include

Some issues have a huge number of opinions surrounding them; you cannot include them all. Using too many will confuse the reader and make a conclusion difficult. Also, you won’t have the word limit to include everything you discover. Ask yourself if you have considered the most relevant viewpoints. Working through your discovered material, you can determine what to include based on appropriateness. It can become overwhelming, but there is plenty of help out there.

Where to Find your Evidence

Much of your research will be done online. But you should not disregard relevant books and other print sources, some of which are also online. There is also television and video to consider, and depending on the subject, you can ask family members and friends. Variety in your research shows you have really made an effort to cover all bases.

Always consider the credibility of any source you use, and always note where you found it. You will need this information to complete your bibliography. When you feel you have enough material and researching has given you a richer understanding of the subject, you can start writing.

Writing your Discursive Essay

The first thing to write is an outline ; think of it as a framework. You are going to fill this framework with good material. Remember that every word you put into it will have to justify its inclusion. For a discursive essay, the structure will likely follow the usual format of title, introduction , main body , and conclusion , followed by a reference section.

The Introduction

Example: The introduction should touch on all the points you’re going to cover, even if only broadly. It should provide a concise description of the topic and what your focus will be. Everything you discuss in the body should come under the umbrella created by the introduction.

Help the Reader Right from the Start

From the introduction, the reader should understand where the essay is going; it should not be a mystery tour. This is especially important if the subject is very broad. You can state your position on the subject in the introduction, but it is not necessary.

The discursive essay does not have a formal thesis statement , as with other essay types . This gives you the option of opening with something to really hook the reader. For example, any of these can be used:

• Be provocative – “Maybe you don’t care about children’s self-confidence…”
• Be balanced – “There are different opinions on whether children should do martial arts.”
• Use a relevant quote – “As martial arts practitioners, we are not the type of people who allow life to happen to us. We are the author of our own lives.” – Jay Haynes.
• Illustrate something – “Four-foot-tall Lisa was once bullied. After taking up kickboxing, she seems to stand much taller. She is no longer a target.”
• Use an anecdote – “I lacked confidence and direction as a child. Taking up Tae Kwon Do changed all that in the first few weeks.”

After this is a rhetorical question at the centre of the discussion and a description of what the essay will cover.

Argumentative Essay Checklist

Frequently asked questions, should i analyse evidence in a discursive essay.

Although you will provide evidence in a discursive essay, it is not the same as in persuasive or argumentative essays. For example, if the essay is questioning the correct interpretation of a literary work, you do not analyse or review the literary work. Rather, you look at what others say about it and present that for the reader. What you present are ideas. And you support these ideas with quotations from other people, although it’s possible to do this by referring to your own experiences.

Can I disagree with the prevailing opinion on the subject?

You do not have to take a position on the subject you write about in a discursive essay. Your tutor might even instruct you not to. If you decide to tell the reader your position, you briefly say what you think and why. It shouldn’t become a major part of your assignment because this is not a persuasive or argumentative essay. The essay is not based on what you think.

Can I address the reader directly?

Yes, it makes your work more personal if you do this. You could do this right at the start of the introduction, asking something like, “Have you ever wondered how much information big tech companies hold about you?” A direct question like this can be a useful hook to keep the reader reading. You could say that it reduces formality and brings in familiarity, but used minimally, maybe just once, it can be effective. Generally, the discursive essay should be quite formal and impersonal.

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How to Write a Good Discursive Essay?

05 June, 2020

7 minutes read

Author:  Elizabeth Brown

What does a discursive essay mean? We have an answer to this and many other questions in our article. Welcome to the world of ideal essay writing. Ever wanted to build buzz for your text? We know you do. And we also know how you can do that with minimum effort and little diligence. So forget about your trivial academic essays - they are not as exciting as a discursive one. Ready to dive in?

What is Discursive Writing?

For all those who wanted to know the discursive essay meaning, here it is: a discursive essay is a writing piece, in which the focal element is devoted to an argument. That is, discursive writing presupposes developing a statement that ignites active discussions. After this essay, readers should be motivated to express their own opinions regarding the topic. Discursive essays have much in common with argumentative and persuasive papers, but these are not to be confused. Despite some similarities, discursive writing is a separate type of work that has its specific features and nuances. What we do want you to remember about discursive essays is that you need to concentrate on the power of thought rather than factology and pieces of evidence. In short, your mind is the only tool required to persuade and interest others on the topic you choose.

Discursive Essay Format

Now that we’ve figured out what is discursive writing, it’s time to focus more on the “skeleton” of discursive essay. Like any other piece of writing, discursive essays have clear requirements that help to glue their elements into a coherent paper. By the way, there are many writing services available which can help you present an excellent academic essay. So if you need professional assistance with your task, check them out. But if you want to do it yourself, you can simply take any discursive essay example from the web and use it as a starting point for your paper.

As for the discursive structure itself, you need to start your essay with an introduction in the first place. Create a lead-in that’ll spark the reader’s interest and make them genuinely responsive to the topic. Also, make sure that your introduction is neither small nor extensive. Stick to the optimal amount of words that’ll be sufficient for readers to get the general idea of your essay.

Another essential aspect of an effective intro is your opinion. It’s worthy of note that some discursive essays might require no particular stance on the topic. In situations like this, wait until the end of an essay comes, and only then share your personal view on the matter. This way, readers will understand the neutral tone throughout the piece, shape their own thoughts about it, and later decide whether to agree with yours or not.

In the paragraphs that follow, you’ll need to accentuate on the argumentation. There’s no room for vague and unarticulate expressions at this point. Quite the contrary – you need to unfold your statements consecutively, in a couple of paragraphs, to depict the entire image of your stance for or against the topic. And don’t forget to link your discursive text to supporting evidence.

The last section is the conclusion. Your finishing remarks should clearly articulate your position toward this or that issue, with a close connection to the main ideas in the essay body.

Discursive Essay Thesis

To construct a good thesis for your discursive essay, you’ll need to describe the general stance your work will argue. Here, it’s important to back up the thesis statement with points. These are the opinions that support your thesis and allow to create an affirmative structure for the entire paper.

Discursive Essay Linking Words

The points you use while writing a discursive essay need to flow smoothly so that readers could see a logical organization of the work. For this, you can use transition words that’ll make your paper easily readable and crisp. For example, if you want to list some points, opt for such words as firstly, to begin with, secondly, lastly, finally, etc. If you wish to point at advantages or disadvantages, consider using these transitions: the main/greatest/ first advantage of… is …, another positive side is…, an additional drawback is, another negative aspect of…is…

How to Write an Introduction for a Discursive Essay?

The introductory part is the critical aspect of creating a good discursive essay. In this section, specific attention should centralize on what your topic is all about. Therefore, it needs to be presented with clarity, be informative, and attention-grabbing. How to make your intro sentence for discursive essay memorable? You can start with a spicy anecdote to add humor to discussion. Another powerful way for hooking readers is stating a quote or opinion of experts and famous influencers. This will add to the credibility of your statements, making readers more motivated to read your work.

How to Write a Discursive Essay Conclusion?

Your discursive essay ending is the climax of your argument, a final link that organically locks up a chain of previously described points. This part is devoted to the restatement of the main arguments that sum up your attitude to the topic. And just like with introduction, the conclusion should leave a trace in readers’ minds. To achieve this result, your closing paragraph should include a call to action, warning or any other food for thought that will encourage people to ponder on the issue and make relevant conclusions.

Discursive Essay Topics

The ideas for discursive papers are so versatile that it’s hard to compile all of them in one list. For such list will extend to kilometers. However, we’ve collected some of them for you to facilitate your work on this task. So here are some discursive essay examples you can use any time:

As you understand now, discursive writing definition and discursive essay definition are not as scary as they seem from the first glance. Even though the art of this type of paper is hard to master, over time, you’ll notice significant progress. All you need for this is practice and a little bit of patience to understand the subtle nuances of this task and develop the skill of writing confidently. And if you ever wondered what is an essay, a team of professional academic essay writers can give a helping hand and provide you with a top-notch paper.

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Discursive Essay Writing – A Comprehensive Guide

Writing discursive essays is a common task that can be encountered in high school and college environments. Mastering the nuances of writing them will be a lot easier with this guide. Our team has prepared recommendations that cover the basics of discursive essays and their format. Additionally, you will find some helpful tips about improving your work. Let’s get started!

• 🧐 Definition & Purpose

✍️ Types of Discursive Writing

• 💡 Discursive Essay Topics

📝 Discursive Essay Format

💎 developing a discursive writing style, 📎 references, 🧐 discursive writing: definition & purpose.

Discursive essays are different from the argumentative and persuasive papers you might be used to. Discursive writing allows students to investigate various topics in depth and present different opinions on particular issues. Creating one involves gathering, reading, and assessing supportive evidence. As with other academic papers, discursive ones are built around a thesis statement that outlines the arguments.

Unlike other paper genres like persuasive essays , discursive essays are scarce on personal thoughts. They favor an unbiased look at the subject through the lens of facts and statistics. You can use them to discuss issues related to social norms, the economy, political movements, technology, and similar subjects. Whatever you write about, ensure you methodically cover every side of the issue.

Differences between Argumentative and Discursive Essays

Students often confuse these essay types, so we’ve decided to help you understand the difference. These descriptions will show you how to identify the purpose and tone of these papers and choose the appropriate one to match your writing goals.

If your professor tasks you with this kind of assignment, you have a couple of ways to approach it. As we’ve mentioned before, there are several types of discursive essays. This segment of our article goes into some detail about each of them.

• For-and-against essay . These papers can be best described as a debate in written form. They provide opposing points of view on different topics. For example, such essays may be about the use of fossil fuels, the First Amendment, or the merits of capitalism. It’s vital to provide reasonable and objective arguments in both cases. Readers can come to their own conclusions after reading these discursive papers.
• Opinion essay . In these papers, you should present your opinion about particular issues. Use reason and evidence to back your arguments . Don’t forget to discuss the opposing opinion and explain why it lacks strength. These essays can discuss social, political, and economic topics.
• Problem-solution essay . This discursive essay type discusses a problem and suggests the best solutions for solving it, for example, helping combat the homelessness crisis, climate change, or other issues. Here, students establish the problem, its causes, and the consequences of not addressing them.

💡 Examples of Discursive Essay Topics

If you get to write a discursive essay on any subject you wish, this is the right segment for you. Here, we provide several pressing, engaging, and diverse topics for your work.

• Does social media affect people’s communication skills?
• Do people rely on technology too much?
• The environment is the prime factor in forming a person’s identity.
• Examine the history of vaccines and their effectiveness.
• What’s the best way to save the environment?
• Does technology make us lazier?
• Higher education is not for everybody.
• Should capital punishment be abolished?
• Therapy is the best way to deal with mental health issues.
• People should travel without borders.
• How much does culture influence a person’s upbringing?
• Is American education in dire need of change?
• Discuss how music provides stress relief.
• German is one of the most complex languages to learn.
• How to combat the drug crisis in America.
• Which book format is the best?
• Are TV shows oversaturated with violence?
• Discuss the link between poverty and crime.
• In modern media, censorship comes before facts.
• Approaches to addressing Higher English course challenges.
• Should special sports events be held for steroid users? 
• Does alcohol harm the social fabric?
• Modern movies lack the creative touch.
• Is it OK to control the freedom of speech?
• Discuss if the government should regulate marital relationships.
• Have apps destroyed the dating market?
• The beauty industry wrecked the self-image of women.
• Does listening to heavy metal make a person more aggressive?
• The paradox of fast fashion: balancing trends and sustainability .
• Is religion underappreciated?

You may be tempted to write right away after choosing the appropriate topic for your discursive essay. However, before you do this, get acquainted with this paper’s format. Below, you’ll find a step-by-step guide for each section of the work.

How to Write a Discursive Essay Introduction

Crafting a compelling intro is the foundation of a successful discursive essay. This section outlines the essential elements and strategies to grab the audience’s attention. Read it to master the art of engaging intros.

• Conduct thorough research . Before writing the introductory part, look for reliable sources of information to draw from. Take the time to find supporting evidence, especially when working on an unknown topic.
• Start with a hook sentence . You can provide stats, pose a good question, or give a quote related to the topic. Since it’s the first impression you make, ensure it’s a memorable one.
• Follow with a compressed topic description in a couple of sentences . Your job is to show how the topic is relevant to the broader discourse. Pick your words carefully to leave a lasting impact.
• Introduce your thesis statement . In a sentence or two, describe the paper’s main idea and how you will disclose it later. Trim it down and edit until the statement perfectly encapsulates the core of your writing.
• Describe what the essay will be about . In a couple of sentences, explain what each part of the work will cover in its paragraphs.
• Finish with a transitional phrase or sentence. The last part of the introduction should also smoothly transition into the paper’s body paragraphs. It makes the writing more cohesive and forms a flowing narrative.

How to Write Discursive Essay Body Paragraphs

The body paragraphs offer a platform for in-depth analysis and presentation of multiple perspectives. The ones in discursive essays have distinctive characteristics that distinguish them from other papers.

• Fill each paragraph with evidence that supports your claims . Add facts, statistics, examples, and quotes. Analyze this content and show how it supports your statements.
• Aim to present a balanced discussion . Give each point of view fair consideration. Even if you have a strong personal opinion, it should not dominate the main arguments.
• Present an opposing point of view . Don’t forget to dedicate several sections for counter-arguments to make the paper more comprehensive. Provide supporting information to these claims and refute them later on.
• Use transitional phrases between perspectives . Smooth transitions between different viewpoints within the body paragraphs will help you maintain coherence and guide the reader through the diverse arguments.
• Work in a structure . The first paragraph produces an argument, while the second has an opposing one. Repeat this process throughout the essay to give your audience a bigger picture of the issue. Also, don’t forget to check your punctuation .

How to Write a Discursive Essay Conclusion

This section will show you how to restate your main points, complete your arguments, and leave a lasting impression .

• Return to the thesis statement . Don’t simply restate it. Instead, show how the paper helped expand upon it. Explain the importance of your work in the broader discussion.
• Remind about the critical points of the paper . Give a rundown of the main takeaways of your paper and why they matter. Stay brief and remember that the conclusion should be about one paragraph long.
• Demonstrate its importance . Tell the readers about the questions your paper raises and how they help understand the issue better. Offer practical suggestions for addressing the problem while relying on the provided data.
• Encourage future discussions . Your paper should make readers want to explore the topic on their own, and it should encourage further debates. Suggest other areas relating to your topic that could be investigated in the future.

You’re one step closer to writing your perfect essay. We recommend practicing to ensure that you triumph over these academic tasks. Follow our tips, and you will see the quality of your papers reach new heights.

We thank you for your attention. Hopefully, you’ve found the guide helpful. If you need any more ideas for your discursive essay, you can create one using our topic generator !

• How to Write a Good Argumentative Essay: Easy Step-by-Step Guide. – MasterClass
• Discursive/Expository Essays. – Universidad de Murcia
• Discursive Writing. – Fei-Yu Chuang, The University of Warwick
• Reflective Writing: Differences Between Discursive and Reflective Writing. – University of Hull
• Writing Styles: When and How You Should Use the 4 Main Types. – Jamie Birt, Indeed
• Discursive Writing. – BBC
• 8 Easy Ways to Improve Your Writing Style. – Oxford Royale Academy

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Essay Writing Guides

How to Write a Discursive Essay (With Examples)

Table of Contents

Writing a discursive essay is an engaging way to explore various perspectives on a topic. Unlike other essay types, discursive essays provide a balanced discussion, presenting different viewpoints and arguments. This type of essay helps develop critical thinking skills and encourages a thorough understanding of the subject.

In this article, we will delve into the intricacies of discursive essays, including their definition, main types, and how they compare to other essay forms. Whether you are a student or a professional writer, mastering the art of discursive writing can enhance your analytical and writing skills.

What is a Discursive Essay

A discursive essay is an essay that presents both sides of an argument or topic without showing personal bias. “Discursive” comes from “discourse,” which involves sharing thoughts on a particular idea. In this essay, you must objectively present the topic’s pros and cons, advantages and disadvantages. The writer remains neutral throughout the essay’s body, only revealing their own opinion in the conclusion, supported by the discussion in the preceding paragraphs. This approach encourages a balanced and comprehensive exploration of the subject matter.

Main Types of Discursive Essays

Discursive essays come in three main types: for and against, opinion, and problem-solution.

• For and Against Essays : These essays present a topic’s positive and negative aspects. The writer discusses arguments for and against the issue, providing a balanced view without showing personal bias until the conclusion.
• Opinion Essays : In these essays, the writer presents their viewpoint on a particular topic, supported by arguments and evidence. Although personal opinion is expressed, supporting claims with logical reasoning and facts is essential.
• Problem-Solution Essays : These essays address a specific problem and propose one or more solutions. The writer discusses the issue in detail, explores potential solutions, and evaluates their effectiveness. This type of essay often recommends the best course of action.

Struggling with Your Discursive Essay?

Our expert writers are ready to help you write a balanced and compelling discursive essay. Don’t let the complexities of presenting multiple viewpoints overwhelm you.

Discursive Essays vs Other Essays

Discursive essays differ significantly from other essays in their structure, purpose, and writing style. Here, we will explore how discursive essays compare to argumentative, descriptive, and narrative essays.

Discursive Essay Vs. Argumentative Essay

A discursive Essay focuses on presenting multiple perspectives on a topic without bias, objectively discussing both sides of an argument. In contrast, an argumentative essay aims to persuade the reader of a particular viewpoint, presenting solid arguments and evidence to support one side while refuting the opposing side.

Discursive Essay Vs. Descriptive Essay

A discursive essay engages in a balanced discussion on a specific topic, presenting various viewpoints and supporting evidence. In contrast, a descriptive essay focuses on describing a person, place, event, or object in detail, using sensory language to create a vivid picture for the reader without necessarily presenting arguments. You can read more on descriptive essays to get the difference better.

Discursive Essay Vs. Narrative Essay

A discursive essay involves a formal and objective discussion on a topic, weighing different perspectives without personal bias, whereas a narrative essay tells a story or recounts an event from the writer’s perspective, emphasizing personal experience and often using a more informal, creative style.

How to Write a Discursive Essay

Writing a discursive essay involves several steps to ensure a balanced and comprehensive discussion. Here is a guide to help you craft an effective discursive essay:

Step 1: Choose a Topic

• Select a topic that has clear opposing viewpoints. For example, “The impact of social media on society” is a good topic because it allows for discussing both positive and negative aspects.
• Ensure the topic is relevant and engaging to your audience.

Step 2: Research Both Sides

• Conduct thorough research to gather evidence for both sides of the argument. Use reliable sources such as academic journals, books, and reputable websites.
• Take notes on the pros and cons of the topic. For example, if your topic is “The benefits and drawbacks of remote work,” you would gather data on increased flexibility and productivity (pros) as well as potential isolation and communication challenges (cons).

Step 3: Plan Your Structure

Create an outline with an introduction, several body paragraphs, and a conclusion.

• Introduction : Introduce the topic and state that you will discuss both sides without bias. Example: “Remote work has become increasingly popular, offering significant benefits and notable challenges.”
• Body Paragraphs : Organize the body paragraphs to discuss one side of the argument first and then the other. For instance, the first few paragraphs could detail the benefits of remote work, while the following paragraphs cover the drawbacks.
• Conclusion : Summarize the main points and present your balanced view supported by the evidence discussed. Example: “While remote work offers flexibility and productivity benefits, addressing the challenges of isolation and communication is crucial for its success.”

Step 4: Write Objectively

• Present both sides of the argument fairly and objectively. Avoid using personal pronouns, and keep your tone neutral.
• Use transitional words to connect ideas and ensure a smooth flow. Words like “however,” “on the other hand,” and “furthermore” help maintain clarity.
• Example: “On the one hand, remote work allows employees to have a flexible schedule, which can lead to increased job satisfaction. However, it can also result in feelings of isolation, which may negatively impact mental health.”

Step 5: Revise and Edit

• Review your essay for clarity, coherence, and balance. Ensure each argument is supported by evidence and that the essay flows logically from one point to the next.
• Check for grammatical errors, proper punctuation, and adherence to the required format.
• Example revision: If you initially wrote, “Remote work is great because it offers flexibility,” you might revise it to, “Remote work provides significant flexibility, allowing employees to manage their schedules more effectively.”
• Cite all the sources you used to gather information for your essay. This includes books, academic journals, websites, and other reliable sources.
• Follow the required citation style (e.g., APA, MLA, Chicago) to format your references correctly.
• Example of a reference in APA style: “Smith, J. (2020). The impact of remote work on employee productivity. Journal of Business Research, 45(2), 123-135.

Discursive Essay Examples

Examples of discursive essay topics.

Discursive essays explore various sides of a topic, presenting multiple viewpoints to encourage thoughtful discussion and analysis. Choosing the right topic is crucial for engaging readers and providing a balanced argument. Here are ten examples of discursive essay topics covering various contemporary issues.

• The Debate over Universal Basic Income : Discussing the potential benefits and drawbacks of implementing a universal basic income policy.
• The Impact of Social Media on Society : Examining social media’s positive and negative effects on human interaction and mental health.
• The Pros and Cons of Remote Work : Analyzing the benefits and drawbacks of working from home for employees and employers.
• The Legalization of Marijuana : Discussing the arguments for and against the legalization of marijuana for medical and recreational use.
• The Effects of Climate Change Policies : Evaluating the effectiveness of current climate change policies and their impact on the environment and economy.
• The Role of Technology in Education : Assessing the advantages and disadvantages of integrating technology into educational systems.
• The Ethics of Animal Testing : Debating the moral implications and scientific benefits of using animals in medical and cosmetic research.
• The Influence of Advertising on Consumer Behavior : Investigating how advertising shapes consumer choices and the ethical considerations involved.
• The Future of Renewable Energy : Exploring the potential benefits and challenges of transitioning to renewable energy sources.
• The Impact of Globalization on Local Cultures : Examining how globalization affects cultural identity and diversity in different regions.

These topics provide a foundation for balanced and comprehensive discursive essays, encouraging critical thinking and informed discussion. If you are interested in more topics, you can explore our extensive list of research topics.

Helpful Tips When Writing Discursive Essays

Writing a discursive essay requires careful planning, research, and a balanced approach to presenting arguments. Here are some helpful tips to enhance your discursive essay writing:

• Stay Neutral : Maintain an objective tone throughout the essay, presenting both sides of the argument without showing personal bias until the conclusion.
• Use Reliable Sources : Support your arguments with credible sources such as academic journals, books, and websites. It adds legitimacy to your essay and strengthens your arguments.
• Organize Logically : Structure your essay with a clear introduction, body paragraphs presenting both sides of the argument, and a conclusion summarizing the discussion and presenting your own balanced view.
• Use Transitional Words : Employ transitional words and phrases like “however,” “on the other hand,” “furthermore,” and “conversely” to ensure smooth flow and clarity between arguments.
• Write in Present Tense : Typically, discursive essays are written in the present tense to discuss current and ongoing issues.
• Avoid Personal Pronouns : Avoid using personal pronouns like “I” or “me” in the body paragraphs. Keep the focus on the topic and the arguments being presented.
• Provide Evidence : Back up each argument with evidence and examples. It helps to substantiate your points and make your essay more persuasive.
• Be Clear and Concise : Ensure your writing is clear and concise. Avoid unnecessary jargon or complex sentences that might confuse the reader.
• Address Counterarguments : Acknowledge counterarguments and provide rebuttals. It shows that you have considered different viewpoints and strengthens your position.
• Edit and Proofread : Review your essay for grammatical errors, coherence, and logical flow. Proofreading helps to eliminate mistakes and improve the overall quality of your writing.
• Follow the Essay Guidelines : Adhere to any specific guidelines or formatting requirements provided by your instructor or publication.
• Include a Balanced Conclusion : Summarize the main points of both sides in the conclusion and present your view in a balanced manner, supported by the evidence discussed in the essay.

Final Remarks

Discursive essays offer a valuable opportunity to explore multiple perspectives, fostering critical thinking and balanced analysis. By presenting well-researched arguments and maintaining an objective tone, writers can engage readers in meaningful discussions that promote a deeper understanding of complex issues. Whether comparing discursive essays to other essay types or providing practical writing tips, the insights shared in this article aim to equip you with the tools needed to craft compelling and informative discursive essays. Embrace the challenge, and let your writing contribute to thoughtful dialogue and informed debate.

Need an Outstanding Discursive Essay?

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What are examples of discursive writing?

Examples of discursive writing include essays that explore multiple viewpoints on topics such as the impact of social media on society, the pros and cons of remote work, the legalization of marijuana, and the ethics of animal testing. In each case, the writer presents balanced arguments for and against the topic, supporting each side with evidence and maintaining an objective tone.

How do I start off a discursive essay?

To start a discursive essay, begin with an engaging introduction that introduces the topic and states that you will discuss both sides of the argument. Provide some background information to give context and highlight the importance of the topic. End the introduction with a clear thesis statement that outlines the essay’s structure without revealing your stance.

What is the difference between a discursive and argumentative essay?

A discursive essay presents multiple viewpoints on a topic in a balanced and objective manner, discussing both sides without showing bias until the conclusion. An argumentative essay, on the other hand, aims to persuade the reader to accept a specific viewpoint, presenting solid arguments and evidence to support one side while refuting the opposing side.

Is a discursive essay the same as a descriptive essay?

No, a discursive essay is not the same as a descriptive essay. A discursive essay involves a balanced discussion of different perspectives, presenting arguments and evidence for both sides. A descriptive essay, however, focuses on describing a person, place, event, or object in detail, using sensory language to create a vivid picture for the reader without necessarily presenting arguments or viewpoints.

The University of Queensland. Planning a Discursive Essay. https://uq.pressbooks.pub/academicwritingskills/chapter/discursive-essay-plan/

Racquel English Tutor. How to Write a Discursive Essay[Video]. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=_TnTQt7v6J4

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How to Write a Discursive Essay Helpful Instructions

November 17, 2023

Learn What is a Discursive Essay?

You have to choose your topic with great care and research it first to learn more about how to use the obtained information. No matter where your subject takes you, presenting more than one perspective is vital. A discursive essay means that some creative writing has a place. Only such an approach can present a balanced and thought-out example of a successful discursive essay. The only point that must be considered is a critical evaluation of a subject. It means that an author must avoid any biases. Even if some aspects may disturb you or go against your beliefs, do your best to provide varied opinions to present a clear picture, at least in one paragraph.

The information for your discursive essay topic must be chosen from verified, trustworthy academic sources. Construct a smart discussion and guide your audience from one idea to another. A clear thesis statement is a must. It will help you to highlight all the important sides of your chosen or given subject. Most students also find it helpful as they have to narrow things down by presenting different perspectives.

Different Types of a Discursive Writing Essay

There are several types of discursive essays that you may encounter as a college student. Three of them are the most common, which represent the following:

• Opinion Discursive Essay

An opinion type of composition is the most common. The main purpose here is to find a topic first and research it. Once done, you must offer your opinion and support it with arguments. All the opinions that go against yours are also necessary. Remember that stating only one opinion is not an option. You must present both sides of a story before coming up with the final paragraph. Re-state your main claim as well. Your conclusion should allow your audience to pick a side instead of being forced to choose.

• For and Against Discursive Essay

The complex aspect here is that you must research the facts that speak for and against a certain topic. You may choose the alcohol problem or the use of artificial intelligence in the field of healthcare as an example. The question of your research must be stated correctly and clearly. An answer must be accessible, represent academic research, and be done step-by-step. Present different perspectives and different viewpoints.

• The solution to Problem Writing

Here is where you must state a problem and explain why it matters. When asked to compose a solution to a problem discursive essay, focus on a solution and provide it. The facts and the evidence play a vital role here because a good example always matters. It is always beneficial if you can include some prior research or quote another researcher.

Important : As a way to avoid confusion, one must remember that two additional types of discursive writing can be met in most colleges these days. The talk is about argumentative writing and persuasive writing tasks.

An argumentative essay can be identified as a topic that you research with due care and depth. You still have to collect information and present it to your target audience as an argument in a body paragraph.

A persuasive essay , as the name implies, is where you persuade or convince your readers with the help of examples. The task of making someone see things your way is also an academic type of discursive writing. A different perspective must be explained before you present your main idea.

How to Write a Discursive Essay Correctly?

Regardless of the type that you are asked to present, these five steps are essential:

Step 1: Choose a relevant topic to start with.

Choose something that you know well or subjects that can be researched easily. For example, if you would like to talk about whether violent video games must be banned, research it first. The same is true for using school uniforms in the United States vs Great Britain. A thought-provoking question may be presented in the first paragraph. Discussing various viewpoints, some people may talk about traditions, while others will mention economics. As you work on your discursive essay, you must highlight more than one fact and present different opinions correctly.

Step 2: Write down a list of vital facts.

When you already know the basics about your topic, continue taking notes. You should also examine essay examples. It helps narrow things down and ensures that you do not accidentally forget some facts. For example, you may write down important dates, names, or statistical information. The more you add, the better your discursive essay will be. At the same time, remember not to overdo it, as it can turn your writing into an informative essay!

Step 3: Come up with a strong argument.

The next step is to find an argument that can explain, convince, and make your readers see the point. Your essays must focus on one argument. Do not add bias to an argument, but only work with the facts. A discursive essay introduction must have a hook. It will make your writing less biased and more balanced. The main evidence with your final position must be presented in a thesis-like form.

Step 4: Define more than one opinion to reflect the main argument.

When composing a discursive essay’s body paragraphs, you must consider more than one opinion. For example, if we take the school uniform debate, we can discuss how it can unite all children and decrease poverty. Then, we can discuss how school uniforms help support school traditions. If some people find it outdated, take your time to research why it is so!

Step 5: Work on your structure.

Consider coming up with a clear structure or pattern that can help your readers see your points. Choose your discursive essay format next. The most accessible and popular discursive essay structure example is given below:

A Discursive Essay Introduction – Main Argument – Evidence – Second Paragraph Argument – Example – Third Argument – Importance – Opposing Argument – Explanation with Supporting Evidence- Conclusion.  

When and if necessary, you may add a thesis after an introduction if the task is to find a good solution to a specified problem. Always consult your grading rubric and your teacher to be sure!

Helpful Tips for Writing a Discursive Essay

As a way to overcome initial confusion and set the tone of discursive writing, let’s ask several important questions:

• What three main things matter the most about your chosen topic? Think about at least three facts that talk about your subject. It will help to create a strong thesis statement and a conclusion.
• What ideas help to deliver specific facts and information? Add good examples that can persuade people. Avoid using a personal opinion.
• What sources can provide support for the main arguments? Good scientific sources or statistical data are recommended.
• Can I compose a strong thesis based on my facts? Compose a strong thesis statement claim first.
• Did I provide an opposite opinion? Think about what others have to say.
• Have I checked for a personal bias and a critical analysis? Avoid talking about a sole opinion unless you are asked to do so!
• What type of discursive writing must be written? An informative, critical, argumentative, solution-and-a-problem essay, etc.
• Did I provide several verified sources? At least one source per page is recommended! If you talk about an example, a resource to support it will make your writing more valid.

These eight questions must be asked before you start writing. Once you find the answers, writing and thinking about your writing will be much easier. Remember that all of your claims and counterclaims must be supported with examples and align with each other. Provide a healthy balance between the pros and cons of a certain issue or a problem you choose to discuss. Make your conclusion in a logical manner.

When you choose a topic, do not make it harder or more complex than it has to be. Keep your writing accessible and use persuasive writing techniques. Start with a claim followed by an example. If it needs to be clarified, add an explanation to make understanding all the different viewpoints easier.

If you are stuck with the lack of counterarguments to your claim, you may add a simple “arguments against” tag to your search string in Google or any other search engine. It is also helpful if you start with a Google Scholar or similar research databases. Look for opinion essays or argumentative essays as you research. Seeing what other researchers have to say always helps to find unusual opinions and fill the gaps as you construct your discourse.

DOs and DONT’s to Remember

Accidental mistakes are always possible, but have no fear ─ we have a checklist of things you must do and a list of the most common mistakes that must be avoided in the writing process!

Remember to edit and proofread your work aloud if you wish to make things impressive. It is one of those things that help to improve readability. You have to keep things accessible and use persuasive and explanatory language. It must be close to an argumentative essay writing. Besides, proofreading your work aloud always helps avoid mistakes and correct them. It might take more time but always pays off in the end!

Possible Discursive Essay Topics

Choosing a good discursive essay topic may appear more challenging than it seems. If you cannot find a good essay-type idea, brainstorm some of these topics below with our brief explanations:

• Are heavy video games harmful or useful for kids?

This topic may talk about how the use of video games can lead to violence from one side. Talk about the media bias and attitude. Then talk about the positive cognitive effect that positively affects our memory and attention. Use all perspectives related to provide evidence and offer valuable insights. A thorough research must be done here!

• The pros and cons of using AI in education

Although it is one of the most discussed subjects these days, you may choose it as an idea. Talk about how it helps to do things faster yet deters our creativity. You can talk about good examples and quote psychologists, students, and teachers. Providing supporting evidence, you must recap key points and include all the negative aspects as well.

• The negative and positive sides of rock music

It is a good subject for most college students who listen to rock artists. Think about all the cons and pros, such as attitude or political activism. Do not focus on two or three bands but talk about statistical data before you end up with particular examples. An alternate manner must be used as you work on your main idea, where you offer various perspectives and start a balanced discussion.

• Bullying and social media effect

You must avoid a personal bias and never use any personal examples. Talk about how this problem exists and why this particular topic is so important. Use statistical data next to present ideas. Explain why bullying occurs on social media by offering multiple perspectives. Provide examples with a logical structure. Talk about the solutions and initiatives similar to working on an argumentative essay.

• Solar energy: pros and cons

If you choose engineering or similar discursive essay topics, think about making your discursive essay more accessible. Talk about the presence of solar energy and how affordable and well-known it is. Add more opposing viewpoints, and share some practical tips. Then make a table with the facts that speak for and against your essay topic sentence. Come up with a conclusion to sum things up!

You can talk about anything you wish to discuss. If some topic is uncommon, add the words “important facts” and “stats” as you research. It will make things easier as you try to locate your sources. If a topic sentence has already been provided, seek relevant research papers to find some trustworthy academic resources.

FAQ on Discursive Essays

• What is the best way to compose a conclusion for a discursive essay?

A strong conclusion must re-state a thesis with the main argument to help your readers reach their conclusion. It has to sum things up and make a call to action. An attention-grabbing element must be used to remind your readers about your problem. Remember that no new ideas or viewpoints can be added to your essay. Anything not supported before in relevant body paragraphs must be eliminated. A conclusion should discuss both sides that speak for and against your essay thesis.

• What is the recommended length for a discursive paper?

No strict length is usually specified. Including an introduction with a thesis and at least three body paragraphs is important. Since we have to add two or three counter-arguments, they may be in one or two body paragraphs. A discursive essay conclusion ends up things. It may help you to see how much must be included. Most discursive essays these days vary from 1,500 to 3,000 words for college students. At least three body paragraphs must be included for ideas.

• What makes discursive essay writing different from persuasive tasks?

A good persuasive essay only focuses on one point related to a problem. It means that you must talk about what you believe in. A discursive essay writing must talk about three to five different opinions. Persuasion essays only bring up a topic with a persuasion, while discourse is always about an explanation and a proper academic analysis.

• What is an example of good discursive essay evidence?

If you choose a topic for a summer camp for boys and girls, you may talk about gender segregation in the past. This means that starting with statistical data can help set the tone and make a comparison. This way, you can talk about the past and the present by explaining how opinions have changed. An interview, basic facts, sample data, and a good timetable can be good examples of learning how to write a discursive essay.

Useful Sources to Consider for Your Essays

As a way to assist you in learning how to write a discursive essay, take a closer look at some of these academic resources:

• Purdue Owl Guide . One of the best databases for college and university students. It has amazing APA, MLA, Chicago, and many other free guides with examples.
• What is Discursive Writing Univesity of Sussex Guide . A brief instruction that you can print to have a good checklist.
• University of Michigan-Flint’s List of Most Discussed Ideas . A list of current events you should take a look at. When you feel stuck, this database can help you become more inspired.
• Google Scholar . One of the most famous scientific databases where you can search things by keyword and receive citation data in different formats.
• Web of Science . Another great database you can access and find things based on various academic subjects.
• Jstor . It is one of the best and constantly updated scientific archives that host both old and newest articles.
• PubMed . If you are studying medical subjects, it is one of the best database examples, even for those not-so-common ideas.

All of these links will assist you in composing a successful discursive essay. Make sure to take your time and always remember to proofread!

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How to Write a Discursive Essay: Tips to Succeed & Examples

So, you need to accomplish your discursive essay writing. The typical questions most students ask are: How do you write it? What is discursive essay?

A discursive essay is an academic paper that involves a discussion on a particular topic. It is usually assigned to college students. You may be required to write a paper wherein you have to do one of the following:

• argue for the issue or against it;
• present your points of view on both sides;
• provide your unprejudiced opinion on that matter.

Don’t panic!

Check out the tips from  Custom-writing.org  experts below. They will assist you in discursive writing and encourage you to examine essay examples. Moreover, in this article, you’ll also learn about different types of discursive essay, and its introduction, main body, and conclusion structure.

• ❓ What Is It?
• 🏁 Main Types

Introduction

• Basic Don’Ts
• ✏️ Frequent Questions

❓ What Is a Discursive Essay?

First of all, let’s figure out what the discursive essay is.

You may think it’s similar to the argumentative essay. Yes, but there’s a difference between them in the structure and purpose of these two types of assignments:

We will take a detailed look at how to structure a discursive essay later, and now let’s find out what are the types of this assignment.

Keep reading!

🏁 Discursive Essay: Main Types

You have to think more critically and more in-depth when reviewing all viewpoints and aspects of discursive writing. Check these three main types of essay writing:

• Opinion Essay  requires the author’s opinion on an issue which is stated in the introductory paragraph. It should be clearly presented and followed by reasons and supporting examples. Also, this essay paper should contain an opposing argument that comes before the conclusion. The writer must explain to readers why the mentioned argument is considered to be unconvincing. The writer’s opinion should be restated/summarized in the conclusion.
• For and Against Essay  provides readers with a thorough debate on the topic with the help of opposing points of view. Each point should be discussed objectively and described in details. The introductory paragraph puts the issue under consideration. The main body of this essay paper should present examples, reasons, and arguments supported by justifications. The author’s own opinion with balanced reflections on the topic should be stated only in conclusion.
• Essay Suggesting Solution to a Problem  discusses problems and finds the main solutions. The introduction paragraph explicitly declares a problem and analyses its causes and consequences. The main body of the essay should offer some suggestions for a possible solution to the problem and potential state consequences or expected results. In conclusion, author’s opinion should be distinctly summarized.

📑 How to Write a Discursive Essay

Well, it’s time to talk about the structure of a discursive essay. Like most of the assignments, a discursive paper starts with an introduction and ends with a conclusion:

The first question you may ask is how to start a discursive essay introduction. Simple!

• Give your readers a hook – something that would sound interesting to them.
• Provide a short explanation of the problem. You may use quotations, as well as rhetorical questions.
• Show your readers both sides of the arguments and sum up.

You may be wondering…

Is there something I should avoid in my discursive essay introduction?

Yes. No stereotypes and generalizations, please!

The next step under formal essay writing you should take is to compose the body.

There are a few points you should remember:

• First and foremost: stay unprejudiced . Assess all of the aspects of an issue. Leave your feelings behind or for another essay type.
• Second: build your argumentation . If you have several arguments for your viewpoint—provide them in separate paragraphs. This will help you to keep your essay comprehensible and distinct. Don’t forget to submit supporting evidence.
• Third: write the body of an essay in an alternate manner. What does it mean? If your first paragraph supports the paper’s argument, then in the second paragraph you should write something in the opposite of it. Such a combination of supporting and opposite paragraphs will make your essay look apparent, and well researched. Besides, it will help you to remain neutral.
• Fourth: include topic sentences and evidence . Write a summary of the argument at the beginning of the paragraph. It will allow the reader to easier understand what the paragraph is about. Provide evidence to show that you’re not making the facts up.

Well, you’ve almost finished your writing. Now you should focus on the last section. Keep reading, and you will learn how to write a conclusion for a discursive essay.

• In the last section, you should summarize your article including the main points, specified in the body paragraphs.
• You may also logically express your opinion. Remember: it should resonate with your evidence stated in the body paragraphs.
• Don’t repeat findings, just summarize them.

Keep it short. Your conclusion length should not exceed one paragraph.

👍 Do’s and Don’ts

Do you want more discursive essay writing tips? Fine! Just check them below:

Basic Do’s of a Discursive Essay

• Write in formal, impersonal style.
• Introduce each point in a separate paragraph
• Use topic sentences for each paragraph
• Write well-developed paragraphs
• Give reasons and examples for each point
• Use sequencing
• Use linking words and phrases
• Make references to other sources and make sure that you follow proper citation style
• Identify used sources

Basic Don’Ts of a Discursive Essay

• Don’t use short forms, like I’ll, don’t, they’ve
• Don’t use informal/colloquial language, for example: old as the hills, ain’t, gonna, etc.
• Don’t use very emotional language, since it might make your discursive article look prejudiced
• Don’t use over-generalizations. Extending the features of some elements from a group more than it is reasonable will lead to generous and inaccurate conclusions.
• Don’t express your personal opinion too insistently
• Don’t refer to statistics without proper referencing (check our citation guides )
• Don’t use personal examples, leave it for a personal experience essay

Well, now you know what discursive essay means, what are its main types, and how to structure it.

Discursive Essay Topics

• Discussion of risk factors that impact human health. 
• Discuss the necessity of understanding cultural heritage to provide efficient health care.
• Analyze different opinions on withdrawing patients’ treatment.
• Examine different views on the Civil War.
• Discuss what hostile emotional states are and how they impact human life. 
• Discuss the meaning of metaphors used by Virgil in Aeneid . 
• Describe different opinions on telehealth in nursing homes.
• The ethicality of stem cell technology.
• Explore the effectiveness of motivational interviewing. 
• Discuss how people present themselves online .
• Discuss the reasons for Coca-Cola’s marketing success.
• Analyze the food safety issues and the ways to improve the situation.
• Examine the essential meaning of sleep for people’s physical and mental health.
• Explore various complications of working with groups.
• Discussion of the modern issues with virtue ethics. 
• Describe different views on the definition of love. 
• Give the for and against arguments considering food security technologies.  
• Discuss how the concept of the American dream is presented in the film The Great Gatsby.
• Analyze the influence of family problems on children and suggest ways to improve the situation.
• Present the various points of view on the ethical concepts of Buddhism.
• Examine the attitudes towards the problem of homelessness and the suggested ways of its solution.
• Explore different opinions on the American revolution and its consequences.
• Discuss various policies and views around the globe on abortion. 
• Discussion of the history of food foraging in different communities.
• Multiple thoughts on civility on the Internet .
• Analyze arguments on the effectiveness of hand sanitizers.
• Discuss the importance of visual aids in learning.
• Present and evaluate the theories of international development .
• Discuss how to prevent the spread of the West Nile Virus (WNV).
• Is embracing renewable energy sources beneficial for both environment and the global economy?
• Examine the correctness of the statement that the ideology of pleasure is the foundation of social activism.
• Discussion of the ethical dilemma of population control.
• Discuss the ethics of experimental studies .
• Analyze the topic of gun violence and gun control laws.
• Explore the reasons for opioid crises in the US.
• Give arguments for and against random drug testing.
• Discuss the problem of endangered species .
• Express your opinion on the necessity of parents to be included in children’s education .
• Present your attitude towards working in a bureaucratic organization.
• Discuss the issue of the nursing shortage and suggest a solution.  
• Give different viewpoints on the definition of beauty .
• Analyze the problem of police misconduct. 
• Discuss the description of violence of African people in literature.
• Examine the views on Gardner’s multiple intelligence theory. 
• Describe the various opinions on mysticism and express your attitude towards it.
• Discuss the diverse standpoints on spirituality.
• Is nature protection an urgent problem?
• Analyze different ideas on physical privacy at work.
• Discussion on the Jewish heritage in nursing.
• Examine the views on the meaning of life.  

Good luck with your discussions and discursive essays! Be sure to check out the articles on our blog for more academic wisdom. By the way, on the Custom-Writing website, you may find the best essay topics for your academic writing.

And don’t forget to share your opinion in the comments below.

You might also be interested in:

• Friendship Essay: Writing Guide & Topic Ideas about Friendship
• Teamwork Essay: Quick Guide on How to Write a Good Paper
• Compare and Contrast Essay Writing Tips and Examples
• Transportation Essay: Writing Tips and Brilliant Topics

✏️ Discursive Essay FAQ

There is no one definitely correct answer to this question. Like any other essay, the text should have a clear structure with an introduction, body, and conclusion. The most important thing is that the overall book needs to be cohesive, persuasive, and exciting to read.

An example of a step by step guide is:

1. Take a closer look at the topic, think about the points to cover.

2. Choose the most relevant points and compose the Body of the essay.

3. Add an appropriate Introduction and Conclusion.

To write a good conclusion, you need to have the rest of the essay finished. Does the body of your essay present well-structured points? Great, then see what you can conclude based on that. If possible, make a connection between the introduction and the conclusion.

To ensure that your essay has a perfect structure, start with creating an outline. Based on such a plan, you can present your points step by step. Your text should have a relevant introduction, several points in the main body (with examples), and a logical conclusion.

🔗 References

• Writing an Opinion Essay: Grace Fleming, ThoughtCo
• How to Write a Good Argumentative Essay: Easy Step-by-Step Guide: Master Class
• Ending the Essay: Conclusions: Harvard College Writing Center
• Academic Writing Style: University of Southern California
• Cite Your Sources: Library Guides at University of California, Santa Cruz
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• Share to email

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• IELTS: Writing Part 2 – How To Write A Discursive Essay

• Posted on 05/02/2020
• Categories: Blog
• Tags: IELTS , Writing

When it comes to exams, preparation is the key to success – and the IELTS Writing Paper Part 2 is no exception! It is worth twice as much as Part 1 and is the longest part of the writing paper. So it’s important to perfect your technique before the big day.

We’ve put together some tips, examples, and useful language to help you prepare for Part 2 of the Writing Paper.

IELTS exam requirements

In both the General and the Academic papers, the IELTS Writing Task 2 requires you to write at least 250 words. You will be presented with a topic and tested on your ability to:

• Respond by discussing it
• Extend the ideas, giving an opinion
• Support that opinion with reasoned arguments

Three tips to get a great mark in Part 2

1. Read the question carefully

Don’t be tempted to rush this part: identifying the topic correctly is a crucial first step.

Remember, you are required to give reasons for your answer and include relevant examples from your own knowledge. That means it’s really important that you make sure you understand the essay question fully.

2. Brainstorm ideas

Organising your ideas is an important step in the process. Before you start writing, take some time to make a short plan of what you are going to write. Think about your response to the question:

• What are your opinions?
• Why do you have this opinion?
• What problems can you foresee ?
• What solutions can you suggest?

3. Don’t write too much

The more you write, the more chances there are that you’ll make mistakes. So don’t be tempted to write a long essay. In fact, structure and coherence are more important than length when it comes to marking. A good length to aim for is around 280 words.

You get an hour to complete the two tasks in the Writing Paper, but try to dedicate at least 40 minutes to Task 2, as it is worth twice as many points as Part 1 and you need to write a longer response.

Structuring your answer

The structure of your essay is important for the development of your ideas. Have a look at how we have answered the sample question, below. As you can see, the answer follows a clear structure. Bear in mind, your essay will need to be at least 250 words long, so try to dedicate at least 40 minutes to this task.

Here’s a sample essay question :

In some countries, it is thought advisable that children begin formal education at four years old, while in others they do not have to start school until they are seven or eight. How far do you agree with either of these views?

Give reasons for your answer and include any relevant examples from your own knowledge or experience.

Beginning your essay

In the opening paragraphs , the main idea from the question is identified and developed, so the examiner can see that you have fully understood the essay question and can give a detailed summary with examples .

In this essay, the arguments surrounding early education and the best age to start school will be discussed .

One can see that education is different all over the world. In some countries, parents are content for their children to play and explore on their own, without the help of teachers. It’s considered normal for children to learn through play and they might not go to school, formally, until they are 7 or 8 years old.

In other countries, parents focus on academic education at a much earlier age. They put their children in pre-school programmes, try to help them learn songs, write simple things at home, and play educational games with them. This helps prepare them before they start attending their first school.

Writing the essay body

The following paragraph is the main body of the essay. It explains the student’s personal approach to the question and the way that they are qualifying their opinion . It extends their ideas and supports this approach with a relevant example . Finally, it ends with a concluding sentence which leads into the final paragraph.

In my view, I think a combination of the two approaches is the best answer. Learning through play is beneficial because students have fun and don’t ever find learning to be “boring.” Evidence suggests this method can lead to a life-long love of learning too: many students who start learning in this way go on to university and continue educating themselves for their whole lives. Nevertheless, there are drawbacks to this, such as a lack of direction, which might mean some children are unprepared for school. Having a professional teacher, who makes interesting, personalised lessons and follows a syllabus can solve this issue. In this way, through teacher-directed play, students are given equal opportunities to learn together and no child is put at a significant disadvantage.

Concluding your essay

The last paragraph is the conclusion, which presents an opinion and gives final supporting arguments .

To sum up, I would argue that students benefit from having a formal education at an earlier age. However, it seems to me that teachers should make play a priority because that is how children naturally learn.

By following this structure, you’ll produce a coherent and cohesive answer to the essay question, whatever it is.

You can see another sample answer for the question above here .

Useful language

While it’s not advisable to memorise entire sentences, it is good to have a stock of phrases that you can use to join ideas and make your writing flow more naturally. Here are some examples:

In the introduction:

This essay will outline _____

This essay seeks to ______

In this essay, the arguments surrounding _____ will be discussed.

When giving examples:

As can be seen from _____

Recent studies have shown that _____

One solution proposed by____ is _____

A good example of this is _______

Evidence suggests that _______

When sharing your opinion:

It seems to me _____

In my opinion _____

In my view _____

I would argue that _____

When giving an alternative perspective:

However, there are drawbacks to this, such as _____

Another approach is _____

However, it is important to consider _____

Having said that, _____

In spite of this, _____

In the conclusion:

To sum up, _____

Overall _____

In the end _____

Can you see any of these phrases being used in our sample answer above?

Can you see any of these phrases being used in our sample answer above?  

A few final reminders

Take a few moments to plan the structure of your essay before you start writing, it will help your ideas flow.

Avoid contractions: the language of the essay should be academic and formal in tone.

Keep an eye on the clock: it’s always a good idea to leave yourself a few minutes at the end to quickly read over your answer in case of any mistakes.

Are you taking an IELTS exam soon? Feeling nervous about the writing paper? This blogpost has some top tips and useful language to help you with part 1 of the writing paper.

Glossary for Language Learners

Find the following words in the article and then write down any new ones you didn’t know.

Perfect (v): to make something perfect, to bring to its final form.

Crucial (adj): very important, essential.

Foresee (v): predict, see something before it happens.

Coherence (n): logic, intelligibility.

Fully (adv): completely.

Qualifying your opinion (exp): explaining their position, justifying.

Drawbacks (n): disadvantage.

Advisable (adj): a good idea, prudent.

adj = adjective

pv = phrasal verb

adv = adverb

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5 Unmissable Events at Oxford House in 2020

• By: oxfordadmin
• Posted on 29/01/2020

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• Posted on 12/02/2020

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The Ultimate Guide to Writing a Stellar Discursive Essay (With an Example)

Mar 30, 2024 | 0 comments

Mar 30, 2024 | Blog | 0 comments

A discursive essay requires the writer to present balanced arguments on a particular topic. This type of essay demands critical thinking and analytical skills to argue both sides of an issue effectively. Whether for a school assignment or a professional publication, mastering the art of writing a discursive essay is essential for any writer. In this article, we will discuss the key components of a discursive essay and provide tips on how to structure and write one effectively. From choosing a topic to researching and presenting arguments, we will guide you through crafting a well-rounded and persuasive discursive essay. By the end of this article, you will have the tools and knowledge needed to tackle this challenging form of writing confidently. So, let’s dive in and learn how to write a discursive essay that will impress your readers.

Table of Contents

What is a Discursive Essay?

At its core, a discursive essay is an essay that investigates an issue, situation, or problem from differing points of view. It presents a balanced, multi-perspective overview, considering all major positions on the topic in a balanced way.

The overarching goal is to inform and explore – not to argue a one-sided case. Discursive essays demonstrate your ability to think critically and add nuance to complex issues by being open to opposing arguments and representing them fairly.

This open-minded approach is why these essays are valuable across many academic disciplines like philosophy, history, and the social sciences. Being able to weigh multiple sides develops crucial research and reasoning abilities.

Purpose of Writing Discursive Essays

There are several key reasons instructors assign writing such essays:

• To push you to think critically and see nuances in an issue rather than automatically taking an entrenched stance.
• Strengthen your persuasive writing abilities by forcing yourself to argue multiple positions, not just your personal beliefs.
• You must gather a thorough base of evidence and information from credible sources to enhance your research skills.
• To develop your logical reasoning abilities, you must address counterarguments and rebuttals in a clear, structured manner.

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Main Types of Discursive Essay Writing

Opinionated discursive writing : As the name suggests, these present the writer’s opinion or perspective on an issue while objectively considering other potential positions. The writer’s view remains at the core of the essay.

Argumentative Discursive Essays : These essays use factual evidence and logical reasoning to make a case for a particular stance on an issue. While other views may be mentioned, the purpose is to persuade the reader toward the writer’s position.

Solution Essays : These essays examine a problem or situation and propose one or more potential solutions, weighing the merits of each approach. The essay itself doesn’t argue for a single solution.

Descriptive discursive writing : This is a discursive essay type that vividly describes and analyzes a particular topic, event, or phenomenon from multiple perspectives. It aims to paint a detailed, multi-faceted picture of the subject matter, exploring various viewpoints and arguments objectively and balanced.

What is the Difference Between a Discursive Essay, an Argumentative Essay, and an Expository Essay?

You may think, “Don’t argumentative and discursive essays present different positions on a topic? What’s the real difference?”

It’s a fair question, so let’s clarify how discursive essays are distinct from argumentative and expository pieces:

Argumentative Essays aim to persuade the reader that one particular position is correct by presenting a clear thesis statement and building logical arguments supported by evidence to prove it. While they may acknowledge counterarguments, the ultimate goal is to convince the reader of the writer’s stance.

On the other hand, Expository Essays are entirely objective explanations of a topic, concept or process. They avoid persuasion or arguing with any one perspective. The purpose is solely to provide factual information to inform the reader.

A discursive essay sits between these two – it doesn’t persuade toward one viewpoint like an argumentative essay but doesn’t remain completely neutral like an expository piece. The goal is to provide an overview that gives equal, unbiased consideration to all major perspectives on an issue.

So, in summary:

• Argumentative : Persuades toward one perspective as the correct stance
• Expository : Objectively explains a topic without opinion
• Discursive : Comprehensively explores multiple perspectives in an unbiased way

With the theory out of the way, let’s learn how to write a good discursive essay!

📑 How to Write a Discursive Essay

There are several key phases in writing an effective discursive essay: choosing a topic, planning the structure, researching different perspectives, and putting it all together cohesively. Let’s break it down:

A. Choosing a Discursive Essay Topic

The first step is selecting an appropriate topic that allows you to offer a well-rounded, multi-perspective analysis. When choosing your topic, keep these tips in mind:

• Look for complex, nuanced issues with multiple established viewpoints and ample data available to research each side. Straightforward yes/no topics don’t allow much nuance.
• Pick topics that are relevant, interesting and have active public discourse. Issues being currently debated make for more engaging essays.
• Choose topics you can approach objectively and have the background knowledge to understand differing views.
• Do preliminary research to ensure sufficient scholarly sources are available to substantiate the various arguments and counterarguments.

Some potential good discursive essay topics could analyze complex societal issues like climate change policies, ethical use of new technologies, criminal justice reforms, or systemic inequalities. Just be sure the topic truly has multiple perspectives to explore.

Once you have identified your discursive essay topic, it’s time to start mapping your approach and structure.

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B. Planning Your Discursive Essay Structure

A solid essay plan ensures your discursive essay flows logically and gives equal attention to the various viewpoints. Generally, essays will follow this structure: a discursive essay:

Introduction Paragraph :

• An engaging hook statement to grab the reader’s interest
• Relevant background information to establish context on the topic
• A clear thesis statement that introduces the central question or issue

Body of the Essay :

• An  introductory sentence  that concisely states the viewpoint
• Supporting evidence from credible sources such as expert analysis, statistics, examples, etc.
• State the opposing argument fairly without misrepresenting it
• Use evidence to either dispute, qualify, or acknowledge its limitations
• Paragraphs can weave between presenting positions and counterarguments, but each new argument should have its own focused paragraph.

When writing the body, use transition words to connect paragraphs logically and indicate shifts between viewpoints. Words like “conversely,” “additionally,” and “however” keep the flow coherent.

Most importantly, the body of your essay needs to address all major perspectives related to your thesis in a neutral, impartial tone without favouring any one side. Your credibility hinges on representing each stance accurately.

Conclusion Paragraph :

• A summary reiterating the primary perspectives without repeating verbatim
• Your overall assessments and any potential resolutions you propose
• End on a thought-provoking note that refers back to the thesis and key points

With the core outline in place, you can start gathering the evidence, examples, data sources, and expert commentary to substantiate each position and counterargument within the  body paragraphs .

C. Researching for a Balanced Analysis

Thorough, wide-ranging research from credible, authoritative sources allows you to adequately explore all sides of an issue. When gathering source materials:

• Use a mix of scholarly journals, expert analyses, and trusted news sources with minimal bias
• Look for objective data and statistics to strengthen your points
• Please pay close attention to how experts qualify their perspectives and address potential critiques
• Take careful notes and organize your sources based on the position they support

In addition to conducting secondary research through written sources, consider:

• Interviewing people with first-hand experience related to your essay topic
• Examining societal debates by analyzing social media commentary
• Attending local community meetings or events that discuss the issues

The deeper and broader your research base, the more nuanced and fully developed your essay analysis can be.

As you start writing the body paragraphs, smartly integrate your evidence by:

• Paraphrasing key points from sources but also directly quoting pivotal statements
• Evaluating source credibility and potential conflicts of interest, not just accepting them unquestioningly
• Using footnotes or in-text citations to give proper attribution for all evidence

How do I Write the Introduction Paragraphs for a Discursive Essay?

The introduction is crucial as it sets the stage for your balanced argument on a topic. You don’t write a bland, generic opening. Instead, for a discursive essay, you must grab the reader’s attention with an interesting hook, such as a thought-provoking question, shocking fact, or vivid anecdote related to your topic.

Then, provide relevant background information to give context before clearly stating your thesis, introducing the main issue and outlining the different sides of the issue you’ll explore. Your thesis must be specifically focused and present an arguable, nuanced claim – not just a self-evident fact.

How do I Write the Body Paragraphs for a Discursive Essay?

The essay’s main body is where you systematically analyze the various perspectives and positions using logical reasoning and supporting evidence. Each new argument should be addressed in a separate paragraph with a clear topic sentence stating the claim.

Expand on that viewpoint using facts, examples or evidence, expert opinions, and analysis. Fully flesh out each position before introducing any counterarguments or rebuttals in the following paragraphs.

When representing the opposing argument, do so objectively. Don’t exaggerate or misrepresent the claims – identify a discursive essay’s different stances accurately first, then provide evidence challenging or qualifying that stance. Avoid dismissing counterarguments entirely.

Maintain an academic tone throughout – don’t write with excessive informal language or personal bias. Use transitional phrases between paragraphs to connect ideas logically.

How to Write a Conclusion for a Discursive Essay?

In concluding the essay, you don’t simply restate your original thesis from the introduction. Certainly summarize the key points made, but avoid redundancy.

More importantly, it offers a meaningful analysis that weighs the relative strengths and weaknesses of each perspective explored in the essay. If appropriate, propose potential solutions or resolutions for the issue at hand.

The conclusion is also where you can express insightful opinions if done judiciously. Just don’t introduce entirely new arguments or evidence.

Finally, end with a thought-provoking closing statement that reveals deeper implications, leaves the reader with a call to action, or opens avenues for further discussion.

Writing Techniques for Effective Discursive Essays

With the overall structure and research in place, the focus now shifts to the execution – how you craft insightful analysis in a balanced, academic tone. Key techniques include:

Use Clear, Precise Language

• Avoid ambiguous wording or casual figures of speech
• Take care of defining terms, incredibly subjective or politicized concepts
• Use qualifiers like “could,” “may,” and “arguably” rather than overconfident absolutes
• Explain abstract ideas using concrete examples to illustrate your point

Apply a Formal, Objective Tone

• As the writer, avoid using first-person pronouns like “I” or “my.”
• Stick to the third-person point of view to maintain critical distance
• Don’t use colloquial phrasing, contractions, or idioms that make it too conversational
• Keep sentences clear and articulate rather than overly rhetorical

Substantiate All Claims

• Go beyond superficial surface-level statements – provide in-depth analysis
• Use facts, statistics, expert viewpoints, and specific examples as evidence
• If making an inferential statement, indicate where the logic comes from
• Consistently cite all sources using the specified style guide

Address Counterarguments

• Never dismiss counterarguments as inconsequential
• Thoroughly examine the reasoning behind opposing views in good faith
• Use concession phrases like “while it is true that…” to validate points first
• Offer counterpoints that don’t rely on logical fallacies or misrepresentations

Examples of Discursive Essays

To illustrate how all these components come together into an actual discursive essay, let’s quickly analyze an example:

This brief example illustrates how a discursive essay comprehensively lays out all the perspectives and key arguments around a complex issue like AI ethics. Each view is represented using objective language and substantiated by relevant evidence and expert viewpoints.

The conclusion doesn’t definitively “solve” the dilemma but provides analysis, allowing the reader to weigh the positions and acknowledge the nuances.

Concluding Thoughts on Discursive Essay Writing

After going through this guide, you should now feel more equipped to expertly know the discursive essay definition, the structure of a discursive essay, how to start a discursive essay introduction, and how to plan a discursive essay that meets the high standards. of this challenge. Crafting a strong discursive essay thesis statement and organizing your thoughts in an outlined manner allows you to build a nuanced, multi-perspective analysis methodically. While honing the skills required to produce top-tier discursive writing takes diligence and real-world practice, the long-term benefits of enhancing your critical thinking abilities and strengthening how you communicate complex, multifaceted ideas and arguments are immensely valuable.

Here are the key takeaways to conclude:

• Choose engaging, nuanced topics and take time to research multiple perspectives thoroughly
• Craft a clear introduction that establishes context and states the core issue
• Write the body organized into separate paragraphs, objectively presenting evidence for each stance
• Represent all views fairly while also articulating counterpoints and limitations
• End with a conclusion that summarizes the back-and-forth in objective analysis
• Always substantiate points and maintain formal, unbiased language appropriate for academic discourse 

✏️ Discursive Essay FAQ

What is a discursive essay format.

A discursive essay follows a specific structure that includes an introductory paragraph with a clear topic sentence, several paragraphs alternately presenting arguments, and a conclusion summarizing the main points.

How do you start discursive writing?

To start a discursive essay, begin with an introduction or the first paragraph that catches the reader’s attention and clearly explains the topic you will discuss.

What are examples of discursive writing?

Discursive writing can take various forms, such as opinion essays, writing that presents both sides of an argument, or essays that propose a solution to a problem.

What are the linking words in a discursive essay?

Linking words is essential for connecting ideas within a discursive essay. These words help structure your essay and make it cohesive. Commonly used linking words include “moreover,” “however,” “on the other hand,” and “therefore.

Through my engaging and informative blog posts, I aim to provide helpful tips on topics such as essay writing, research skills, and academic planning, empowering students to thrive in their academic pursuits.

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Discursive writing

This page is devoted to writing in language tests, for anyone that needs to do this. In language tests, as well as in academic and language-based courses, it is extremely common to see discussion-type essay questions. Usually, questions like this will ask you to provide either a summary of the arguments for and against a particular viewpoint, or your own opinion about a topic or subject of general interest. Make sure that you read the question carefully. In a test, you will lose marks for answering the wrong question, even if your English is good. Try to bear in mind the points below and remember them on the day of your test.

1. Is it useful to learn and memorise some ‘ready-made’ essay-type phrases for this type of writing?  

2. What are the qualities of a good discussion essay?

3. A question of style – should the first person pronoun (“I”) be used in discussion essays?

Check out the following items:

• A useful mnemonic device for discussion essays
• Sample discussion essay

Is it useful to learn and memorise some ‘ready-made’ essay-type phrases for this type of writing?

When preparing for a written test of English, a natural first strategy is to memorise a number of ‘ready-made’ phrases (for example: “The first aspect that I shall discuss is….”).

In some respects, learning set phrases can be positive, because:

• Knowing a range of correctly written sentences can give you confidence in test conditions, when you might be feeling more nervous or anxious than usual.
• Phrases of this kind can help you to organise your thoughts more quickly;
• Incorporating essay-type phrases (if they are well-chosen) can make your writing sound more academic.

However, this method also has some disadvantages:

• An essay with too many ‘ready-made’ expressions may appear unnatural to the reader.
• It may be tempting to disguise poor English with a large number of ready-made expressions which ‘appear’ correct. An examiner will often see through this strategy.
• Your writing may become too ‘clinical’ and formula-driven, and your own character and personality may not show through in your writing.

Our recommendation is to get a balanced view - do use set expressions here and there, but try to avoid over-using them. Otherwise, you writing may sound rather 'pompous' and 'over-bearing'. Remember to show something of your own personality, too, and do not be afraid to express yourself in your own words.

  back ^

What are the qualities of a good discussion essay?

A basic level of competence is usually characterised by an ability on the part of the candidate to:

• identify the task appropriately.
• formulate a relevant response to the task.
• provide a clear sense of organisation and purpose.
• write reasonably accurately, though of course with some mistakes.
• understand and use tenses appropriately.
• choose words and phrases effectively to answer the question.
• use at least some complex sentence structures, even if not always correctly.
• use more than just simple, basic words and phrases.
• show some awareness (even if not very developed) of academic style.
• meet the language demands of their department with some help and assistance, perhaps at pre-sessional level.

A higher level of competence is indicated by the candidate’s ability, in addition to the above, to:

• write with a good level of fluency.
• write thoughtfully when formulating a response to the task.
• write with a good sense of register and style.
• write with a degree of persuasion.
• write with a very high standard of accuracy.
• evaluate the subject in a deeper and more critical fashion, given normal constraints of time.
• use appropriate academic vocabulary

These qualities may be phrased in various ways within the assessment criteria and test specifications of different language tests.

A question of style – should the first person pronoun (“I”) be used in discussion essays?

Many researchers have spent considerable time examining the use of the personal pronoun (“I”) in academic writing. Most specialists agree that the use of “I” probably has little direct effect on the ‘academic’ nature of the writing. In other words, using “I” does not necessarily make the writing less formal, and avoiding “I’ does not automatically make it more academic. It is really your overall use of vocabulary and language, rather than your selection of the personal pronoun, which has a greater impact on the ‘academic’ tone of your writing.

It is useful to bear in mind the following general rules about the use of the first person:

• “I” is often used in introductions and conclusions, to say what you are going to do before you do it, and what you have done afterwards.
• Do not refer to yourself as “the researcher” or “the writer” – it sounds very artificial.
• Some subject areas tend to favour the use of “I” more than others – for example, 'I' is used quite widely in social studies where the emphasis is on practical research - but in language tests, this distinction according to subject area is not very meaningful, and it is not necessary to take account of it.
• When using the “I” form, it is helpful to try to vary the verb that comes afterwards. For example, rather than simply putting “I think”, we can use “I feel”, “I would consider…”, “I tend to regard…”, etc. Look for some ways to 'soften' your language and make it less direct or categorical.
• It is always useful to use “I” when relating a personal experience as an example, thereby distinguishing personal experience from aspects of your reading and research (e.g. when describing an event that emphasises a point you are making, you could say “I recently encountered this phenomenon in one of my classes, when….”). However, try to avoid becoming too anecdotal ("story-telling") when you are recounting examples. Keep to the point.

  A useful mnemonic device for discussion essays

When you are preparing for a test, it is useful to use mnemonic devices. Mnemonic devices are word systems that help you to remember key points. Below is an example of a mnemonic device for remembering important aspects in a discussion essay. You can remember it just by remembering the initial letters of each word in the phrase: “ G ood S tudents R ead E very C hapter”.

G rammar - is your grammar correct and accurate?

S tructure - is your essay well organised?

R elevance - have you answered the question asked of you?

E xamples - have you included illustrations to reinforce your points?

Unique Discursive Essay Topics To Try In 2024

Finding interesting discursive essay topics might be a difficult task, especially for students who aren’t fond of writing or dislike their subject. Fortunately, this problem has a quick and simple solution, but before we get to it, let’s shed light on the most common question first.

What is a discursive essay? This type of essay is a piece of academic writing that describes a topic, details its background, and explores all the main perspectives on it. When writing such an essay, it is essential to look into various points of view, analyzing and comparing them. Virginia Woolf once said, "It is the nature of the artist to mind excessively what is said about him. Literature is strewn with the wreckage of those who have minded beyond reason the opinions of others." This quote underscores the importance of maintaining objectivity and embracing various perspectives without bias, which is a basic principle of writing balanced discussion essays.

These essays are a very common college writing assignment, so learners of all levels must know how best to write them. That’s why we are here! Today, we’ll discuss everything about discursive essay writing as well as outline some creative paper topics. If your professor assigned this type of task to you and now you’re searching for a good topic, consider it found! Our guide will not only explain how to write such essays but also answer questions and offer you a list of original topics you may like.

Five Tips on Choosing Good Topics for a Discursive Essay

Locating a great topic is important because students’ entire research depends on it. Here are five top ways to do it:

• Consider your personal interests . High-quality custom essay writing always gets the highest praise from professors. To increase the uniqueness and value of your paper, dedicate it to a theme you genuinely like. Maybe there is something you constantly argue over on X; perhaps your favourite movie character has a hobby you’d like to explore scientifically. Choose a topic you feel connected to, and you’ll love writing your essay.
• Choose something extra relevant . What worries the world most? The discursive essay topics example is great when it’s current and widely known. Staying up-to-date with the news and trends never fails to deliver great results.
• Go for the most controversial areas . Exploring a subject that multiple people have the most passionate and heated debates over might be interesting.
• Pick the most researched topic . There is nothing wrong with going the easiest route and choosing a topic that has been researched to death. You’ll find many sources and opinions, so you’ll immediately have what to choose from.
• Select the least researched topic . If you like challenges, working with a rare and under-researched subject might feel thrilling.

Key Features of a Strong Discursive Paper

So, what should premium quality discursive writing look like? Be sure your essay includes these four aspects:

• Objectivity. Don’t try to make some arguments look weaker than they are just because you dislike them — and vice versa.
• Formal writing. Maintain a strict academic tone. Avoid contractions, phrasal verbs, and other informalities.
• Extensive research. Include plenty of credible sources in your essay.
• Equality. Present all the points equally. It’s not okay to dedicate 10 sentences to one argument and just 2 sentences to another one.

Top Ten Discursive Essay Topics for 2024/25 Academic Year

Are you interested in exploring the latest trends and news that concern students worldwide? Then check out these discursive topics:

• What is the global opinion on Israel’s bombing of Gaza?
• Will the cost of college education in Britain continue to rise?
• Can energy drinks truly increase one’s workability?
• How to make Africa’s economy flourish
• Should violent movies be avoided by teens?
• Is racism still on the rise?
• Are more people becoming obese?
• Is hiring essay writers illegal in the UK?
• Does anyone still watch TV?
• How efficient is marketing, and how it affects buying behaviour

Higher English Discursive Essay Topics

UK students who study higher English should know everything about it, from language to literature to its history. Does that sound intriguing? Then, on to the higher discursive essay topics!

• What do such terms as “pro-ship” and “anti-ship” mean?
• Is literacy important to an average person?
• Explain what higher education means globally
• Are scholarships becoming harder to obtain?
• Have e-books replaced printed books?
• AI versus human writers: who is better?
• Is fanfiction a form of literature?
• Are romance novels better now, or were they more compelling a century ago?
• Does learning languages help understand diverse cultures?
• How many languages can a person realistically speak?

Good Discursive Essay Topics for High School

High-school students can get away with researching simpler concepts. Here are some examples of topics for discourse essays of this level:

• Do bitcoins still have a future?
• Is wearing a school uniform necessary?
• Does love cause more pleasure or pain?
• What was the best time for women historically?
• How can students fight climate change?
• Can killing ever be justified?
• Is history, as modern people know it, trustworthy?
• What harms health more, tea or coffee?
• Have cell phones become better in the last 5 years?
• Is it better to be an extrovert or an introvert?

Discursive Essay Topics for College Students

College requires more complicated research. Look at these good discursive essay topics:

• Should people participate in medical trials?
• Ideal global drinking age
• Should educational establishments use corporal punishment?
• Has online education made students’ lives better?
• Is social media dangerous?
• Optimal number of work days per week
• How many hours of sleep do people need?
• Why is TikTok so popular among teens?
• Are private schools necessary, or should public schools cater to everyone?
• Is a college education worth it in terms of effort and money?

Controversial Discursive Essay Topics

Controversy generates passion, making our blood run hotter. It intimidates some students, pushing them to contact us, asking, “Please write my essay for me ” sometimes. That said, if you want to write your paper yourself, try these best discursive essay topics:

• Should getting a COVID-19 vaccine be mandatory?
• Is Elon Musk a visionary or a fraud?
• Should the government have secrets from people?
• Should reproduction be selective?
• Are there more smart or stupid individuals in the world currently?
• Should Ukraine agree to negotiate with Russia?
• Is reading books overrated?
• Who killed JonBenet Ramsey?
• What is the explanation for the Bermuda Triangle?
• Is genetic engineering in humans ethical?

Mental Health Topics For a Discursive Essay

Life can be pressing, and mental health issues are becoming ever more relevant. That’s why writing discursive essays on them is always interesting. Here are just a few mental health-related essay topics you can explore:

• Do rich people have more or fewer mental health problems?
• Why are depression rates rising despite the increased awareness and more help avenues?
• Is it possible to spot a person who plans on committing suicide?
• Why do many psychologists have mental and emotional problems?
• Is social media harmful to mental health?
• Does the UK need more mental health awareness campaigns?
• What is the most dangerous mental problem?
• Is autism a form of mental illness?
• Is there a link between sexuality and mental health?
• Are children brought up by same-sex parents happier than those raised in traditional families?

Funny Topics For a Discursive Essay

Enough of tragedies and depression. Have some amusing discursive writing topics instead:

• Zombie apocalypse survival
• What do pets do when their owners leave home?
• Is napping at work beneficial?
• Extraterrestrial neighbours. Why are aliens avoiding us?
• Should adults have mandatory comfort toys?
• Dangers of binge-watching TW shows
• How to be an adult? Basic skills.
• Daily challenges of left-handed people
• Laziness as a survival skill
• Pets as political leaders

Interesting Topics For a Discursive Essay

Here’s a list of diverse topics that our experts find personally stimulating. Who knows, you might share some of their preferences.

• Why do people think about Eurovision 2024?
• Is doomsday coming?
• Does religion cause more harm than good?
• Who is most children’s favourite parent by gender?
• Are dogs smarter than cats?
• What are the world’s biggest misconceptions?
• What do all religions have in common?
• Should we allow voting at 16?
• What is the role of urban gardening in a big city?
• The world's most popular song and the key to its popularity

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Why Is It Difficult to Write Papers Even on the Greatest Discursive Essay Ideas?

Multiple UK students love their subjects. They pick a topic they’re interested in, but sometimes they choose to buy an essay anyway. Why is that? In truth, writing a powerful discursive paper might be frustrating. Look at these frequent problems and check our experts’ solutions:

FAQ About Finding the Right Topics for Discursive Essay

• What is discursive writing in comparison to argumentative papers? In argumentative papers, writers pick their points of view and argue in their favour. They might mention the opposition's views but focus on their personal beliefs. Discursive essays are more objective. You need to dedicate equal attention to all the points and limit your own thoughts to a minimum.
• What 2 types of discursive papers do I need to know about? Roughly, discursive writing is divided into persuasive and argumentative papers. They have their differences that students should learn before they attempt to write anything.
• What is a discursive statement? In most cases, this phrase refers to a thesis statement in a discursive paper. It has to reflect your topic in one single line.
• Is it bad if my topic is overly extensive? It’s better to break broad topics into something more specific. Watch out for the word count: it’ll help you calculate how many points you can explore.
• What formatting should I stick to when writing my discursive essay? APA and MLA are both common formats. Unless your professors suggest differently, follow the academic rules you follow in other projects. Your title should be medium-sized; the discursive essay introduction and conclusion shouldn’t exceed 10% of your word count, and no informal words should be present.
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Job Skills Necessary for Success

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