In an Opinion Essay (also known as the Persuasive Essay or Argumentative Essay), you must choose a controversial topic, or a subject about which people have varying and strong opinions, present your own opinion on the topic and defend it with clear reasons. The ultimate purpose of an opinion essay is to persuade the reader to agree with your stance. In order to do this effectively, consider the following points:
- Purpose: To persuade the reader to agree with you or at least recognize the validity of your argument.
- Audience: The audience is someone who disagrees with your opinion. You should consider why the reader might disagree in order to help you prepare a stronger argument.
- Goals:
- to have a clear position
- to provide a focused argument with clear reasons and details
Opinion Essay Structure
Introduction
- Hook
- Begin your introductory paragraph with an engaging sentence to get the reader's attention and introduce your topic in an interesting way.
- Background
- Present general information about your topic to help the reader understand the importance and controversy of the issue.
- Thesis Statement
- The final sentence of the introductory paragraph, the thesis contains the main idea of your essay. In this sentence, you clearly present your opinion.
Body
- The Argument
- Several paragraphs supporting your opinion with clear reasons (at least three), each reason expanded upon with specific details to exemplify or explain your points
- The Counter-Argument and Response
- One short paragraph containing the opposing view. Including the counter-argument shows that you have considered both sides and gives you an opportunity to respond
- Respond to the counter-argument by refuting or conceding
Conclusion
- Restate the thesis and summarize the main points of the essay.
- End with a strong statement that will leave an impression on the reader, for example, a prediction, warning, etc.
An opinion essay should be written in a formal style. Avoid using the first person, avoid emotional language, and do not use slang.